A cord-lock assembly for slidably adjusting a length of cord is provided. The assembly may include various components such as a cord, a cord lock, and an article layer into which the cord lock and cord may be at least partially integrated. The cord lock may include one or more components that releasably clamp onto the cord and engage the cord through resistance provided by a biasing element. The cord-lock assembly may be configured such that a force applied to the cord lock in axial alignment with an aperture in which the cord lock is positioned allows adjustment of a length of cord extending through the cord lock and/or through the aperture layer.

A manipulator command handle (147, 230, 330) comprising a handle framework (232, 332), a first cable (250, 350) having a first end (252, 352) and a second end, wherein the second end of the first cable is coupled to the handle framework, a first coupler block (241, 341) coupled to the first end of the first cable and a connector configured to reversibly couple to an output shaft (224, 322) of a manipulator wrist joint.

An adaptor that attaches to a portable electronic device and is configured to removably receive a user-chosen accessory and that supports the portable electronic device on or to a structure is disclosed. The adaptor allows for the use of different accessories with the portable electronic device, thus providing a level of customization for the user. The adaptor includes a mounting member for supporting the adaptor to the portable electronic device, a body, and at least one receiving bracket supported on the body, the receiving bracket removably attaching the accessory to the adaptor. The mounting member defines a slot sized to receive a grip that is attached to the portable electronic device. The side edges of the mounting member are spaced apart a sufficient distance to allow the grip device to be slid or otherwise received into slot in snug engagement with the side edges so that the adaptor does not disengage from the portable electronic device unintentionally.

A quick-disconnect ball and socket joint includes a substantially spherical strain relief node configured to be coupled to an object, such as a cable. The system further comprises an end cap configured to capture the substantially spherical strain relief node, the end cap having a diameter that permits the substantially spherical strain relief node to pass therethrough when the system is in an open position. The system still further comprises a retaining element configured to retain the substantially spherical strain relief node in the end cap. The retaining element is attached to the end cap when the system is in a closed position and the object is prevented from being removed from capture by the end cap. However, in the open position, the retaining element may be removed from capture by the end cap by passing the substantially spherical strain relief node through a diameter of the end cap.

A ring release system is configured to releasably couple a parachute to a payload. The ring release system may comprise a series of release rings affixed to a riser. At least one release ring comprises a removable pin, permitting installation of the release ring after associated components have been stitched together, improving the reliability and manufacturability of the ring release system.

A ring release system is configured to releasably couple a parachute to a payload. The ring release system may comprise a series of release rings affixed to a riser. At least one release ring comprises a removable pin, permitting installation of the release ring after associated components have been stitched together, improving the reliability and manufacturability of the ring release system.

An article of footwear, lacing engine, and method includes a motor, a transmission operatively coupled to the motor, and a lace spool. The lace spool is operatively coupled to the transmission and includes a top lace groove in a top surface of the lace spool and a circumferential channel, wherein the lace is configured to be inserted in the top lace groove and be taken up around the circumferential channel based on a turning of the lace spool from action by the motor and transmission. A fastener is configured to couple the lace spool to the transmission and is inserted into the lace spool via the top surface, the fastener having a head having a head width sufficient to partially cover the top lace groove, leaving a top gap having a gap width less than a thickness of the lace.

A self-locking securing device facilitates secure connection to cable or elongated object ends, and employs a retaining jaw, a barrel, a spacer and a sleeve. In various embodiments, the retaining jaw and spacer are formed as part or all of a replaceable cartridge and can include a fastening ring therebetween.

A self-locking securing device facilitates secure connection to cable or elongated object ends, and employs a retaining jaw, a barrel, a spacer and a sleeve. In various embodiments, the retaining jaw and spacer are formed as part or all of a replaceable cartridge and can include a fastening ring therebetween.

Provided is a cord stopper for moving along a length of cord and releasably engaging the cord. The cord stopper comprises a body delimiting a channel for passing the cord through the body. A first path and a second path for the cord are defined in the channel. The first path or the second path is selectable by rotating the body relative to the cord. A cord engagement portion is provided along the first path, and a cord passing portion in the channel defines the second path. The cord engagement portion is configured to engage the cord such that movement of the cord stopper along the cord is restricted when the first path is selected. The cord passing portion is configured to permit the cord stopper to move along the length of the cord when the second path is selected. Further provided is a cord stopper assembly comprising the cord stopper and the cord. Methods of using and manufacturing the cord stopper are also provided