Patent attributes
Retractors and vests having retractors are disclosed, wherein the retractor can be attached by an attachment mechanism to a web system on the vest. An accessory can be attached to a line within the retractor, and the line can be extended from the retractor housing during accessory use. When the line is extended from the housing, the retractor housing rotates so it aligns with the extended line. This alignment of the housing and line reduces stresses on the line, which extends the reliability and lifespan of the retractor. Further, a retraction force can retract the line back into the retractor housing when the extension force is released. The retraction force can be strong enough to prevent the line from extending from under weight of the accessory. The retractor can also minimize the dangle length of the retracting device to the attachment point to minimize movement when not in use.
