Abstract: A clamp (20) includes a first barrel half (26) and second barrel half (28). A hinge pin (30) pivotally couples a first edge (38) of the first barrel half (26) with a third edge (46) of the second barrel half (28). A spring (96) imposes force on the barrel halves (26, 28) to bias a second edge (40) of the first barrel half (26) away from a fourth edge (48) of the first barrel half (28) to create a gap (34) between edges (40, 48), placing the clamp (20) in an open position (22). A handle (32) includes a base (80) that abuts an outer surface (54) of the barrel halves (26, 28) to compel the second edge (40) of the first barrel half (26) toward the fourth edge (48) of the first barrel half (28) to close the gap (34), placing the clamp (20) in a closed position (22).

Abstract: Threadless button apparatus includes a button portion and a retainer portion, with the two portions being secured together with a frictional engagement between a stem or shank which extends outwardly from a button and a lock cylinder in the retainer. There is an outwardly extending protuberance on the shank of the button and an inwardly extending ridge portion at the upper part of the lock cylinder in the retainer. The inwardly extending ridge portion receives the outwardly extending protuberance for frictionally securing the two portions of the button together. The outer or distal end of the shank includes a needle nosed portion which curls over in the lock cylinder of the retainer and which straightens out as the button and retainer are separated so that the two elements may be taken apart and may be reused.

Abstract: A sport bottle includes a container for a liquid and a cover which seals to the container and which includes an aperture through which a straw extends. The straw extends outwardly from the cover to allow the user to drink from the container. A flexible handle element is secured to the cover and is disposed over the straw to allow the user to hold both the container and the straw. The handle element includes a cap for the straw so that the straw may be covered or closed when the sports bottle is not being used for drinking purposes. The cap prevents the liquid from sloshing out of the bottle and also prevents dirt, or the like, from entering through the straw and keeps the end of the straw or the portion of the straw which contacts the users lips, from accumulating dust, dirt, and the like.