Importance

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Abstract

A fastener for securing an object is formed of a resilient material and includes an opening therethrough. At least two lines, such as a shoestring, cord, rope, twine, string, or similar article, extending from the object are disposed through the opening in substantially the same direction. By pulling on respective ends of the line in opposite directions, the fastener is distorted for providing a gripping action between the fastener and the lines. In one embodiment, the fastener is an annular member having the lines wrapped at least once around a wall of the fastener. As the ends of the line are pulled, the annular member twists and rolls into a shape having at least one loop, such as a figure eight type shape. In another embodiment, the fastener is a tubular member. As the ends of the line are pulled, one open end of the tubular member rolls toward an opposite open end of the tubular member. The plastic deformation or torsion of the fastener provides a gripping action between the lines and the fastener, securing the ends of the line together without the need to tie the ends of the line together.

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First Claim