US 12,269,660 B2
Self-locking tie cords and systems, and related methods of use
John Paul Lawrence, Washington, DC (US)
Filed by John Paul Lawrence, Washington, DC (US)
Filed on Dec. 21, 2022, as Appl. No. 18/085,765.
Claims priority of provisional application 63/292,294, filed on Dec. 21, 2021.
Prior Publication US 2023/0193663 A1, Jun. 22, 2023
Int. Cl. B65D 63/10 (2006.01); E05B 75/00 (2006.01)
CPC B65D 63/1027 (2013.01) [E05B 75/00 (2013.01)] 17 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A self-locking tie cord apparatus, comprising:
a linear series of asymmetric nodules coupled together by a connective stem, wherein each of the asymmetric nodules possesses an asymmetry across a nodule dividing line formed by the largest cross section of the nodule, the nodule dividing line being orthogonal to a central axis of the connective stem; and
a lock, coupled to a first end of the connective stem, comprising a planar opening and one or more flexible tabs disposed within the planar opening configured to limit the shape of the planar opening such that the shape of the planar opening prevents the asymmetric nodules from passing through the planar opening when the one or more flexible tabs are at rest,
wherein the lock is configured to allow an asymmetric nodule from the series of asymmetric nodules to pass through the planar opening in a first direction orthogonal to the planar opening when the asymmetric nodule applies a first required force to the one or more flexible tabs in the first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the planar opening and opposite the first direction when the asymmetric nodule applies a second required force to the one or more flexible tabs in the second direction,
wherein the first required force is sufficient to flex the one or more flexible tabs such that the shape of the planar opening allows the asymmetric nodule to pass through the planar opening in the first direction,
wherein the second required force is sufficient to flex the one or more flexible tabs such that the shape of the planar opening allows the asymmetric nodule to pass through the planar opening in the second direction, and
wherein the asymmetry of the asymmetric nodule causes the first required force to be less than the second required force.