US 2026/0130472 A1 · Adjustable, Field-Repairable Metal Buckle with Configurable Sliding Mechanism for Versatile Release Applications

Abstract

The present invention relates to an adjustable and field-repairable metal buckle system designed for use in high-performance, load-bearing applications such as tactical gear. This buckle system includes a female buckle housing, a male buckle component, and an interchangeable slide bar equipped with a ball-lock and captive screw mechanism, which enables secure positioning and easy release. The female housing contains a locking mechanism with spring-biased arms that interlock with the male component, ensuring a load-bearing connection. The slide bar features a slit for easy insertion and removal of webbing loops, facilitating field repairability. Configurations include a 5.5-inch slide for side release and smaller 1.5-inch and 1-inch slides for shoulder release applications, allowing customizable functionality. The buckle system is constructed from anodized aluminum, providing corrosion resistance, strength, and reduced weight and can incorporate a quad release system, enabling simultaneous disengagement of multiple buckles through a central hub for rapid equipment removal.

Claims11

Dependent claims

An adjustable and field-repairable metal buckle system, comprising:

a. a female buckle housing formed of two mirrored outer shells configured to enclose an internal locking mechanism;
b. a slide bar configured to engage the female buckle housing via a groove in each of the mirrored outer shells, the slide bar comprising an adjustable webbing slot and a slit to enable field repairability by facilitating the insertion or removal of webbing loops;
c. a male buckle component configured to mate with the female buckle housing, the male buckle component including interlocking teeth for secure engagement with the internal locking mechanism;
d. a locking mechanism within the female buckle housing comprising:
i. a pair of arms biased by a torsion spring and configured to interlock with the teeth of the male buckle component,
ii. a central attachment rod for securing the pair of arms within the female housing;
e. wherein the slide bar further comprises a ball-lock mechanism and a captive screw that, upon tightening, drives a ball bearing into engagement with an extruded feature on the female buckle housing, thereby preventing unintended sliding.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Adjustable, Field-Repairable Metal Buckle with Configurable Sliding Mechanism for Versatile Release Applications

Life of this patent

Adjustable, Field-Repairable Metal Buckle with Configurable Sliding Mechanism for Versatile Release Applications

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims11