Abstract: This is directed to connecting two or more elements using an intermediate element constructed from a material that changes between states. An electronic device can include one or more components constructed by connecting several elements. To provide a connection having a reduced or small size or cross-section and construct a component having high tolerances, a material can be provided in a first state in which it flows between the elements before changing to a second state in which it adheres to the elements and provides a structurally sound connection. For example, a plastic can be molded between the elements. As another example, a composite material can be brazed between the elements. In some cases, internal surfaces of the elements can include one or more features for enhancing a bond between the elements and the material providing the interface between the elements.

Abstract: A strapless face mask retainer has a nasal columella bridge defined by a lateral span curved to conform to a facial structure of a wearer and includes a pair of columella pads each receivable within respective nostrils of the wearer. A covering frame is defined at least by a transverse frame span with opposed left and right ends, and by vertical frame arms that extend from the corresponding left and right ends of the transverse frame span. Each of the vertical frame arms define an upper end at least horizontally coincident with or above openings of the nostrils of the wearer. The vertical frame arms also define a lower end that is below a mouth of the wearer.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and apparatus for hanging an object from a fixed surface. Fixed bolts insert into tapered slots connecting the fixed surface with the object. Gravity and the weight of the object ensure that the connector stays firmly attached to the fixed surface.

Abstract: A pin with threads that extend along a portion of a stem of the pin interact with framing members as the pin pierces and is axially driven through the framing members. The interaction of the threads with the framing members cause the pin to rotate as the threads pass through the framing members and fastens the framing members together.

Abstract: A tool chuck may include a chuck body defining a longitudinal axis. A sleeve may be mounted on the chuck body for movement between a first axial position in which the chuck body is rotatable together with the sleeve, and a second axial position in which the chuck body is rotatable relative to the sleeve to actuate to the tool chuck. The chuck body may be rotatable in a first direction to actuate the tool chuck up to a first torque threshold, and rotatable in a second direction to actuate the tool chuck up to a second, different torque threshold.

Abstract: A tool chuck may include a chuck body defining a longitudinal axis. A sleeve may be mounted on the chuck body for movement between a first axial position and a second axial position. A clutch part provided on the sleeve. The clutch part may engage with a cooperating clutch part when the sleeve is in the second axial position. The clutch part may have a working surface that faces in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: The cylindrical plug of a low-voltage, high current capacity connector assembly has an axially positioned sleeve wiping contact and a transversely positioned U-shaped channel member to provide two pairs of planar wiping contact surfaces parallel to the plug axis and substantially perpendicular to the plug housing surface. The socket component, which will accept standard low-voltage, low current car appliance plugs, includes an internally mounted, closed face pin contact and a barrel contact having depending ears positioned to engage the protruding sides of the plug U-shaped channel member. The socket also has an internal boss and housing lip to prevent electrical activation of a standard automotive cigarette lighter plug, and the plug component of the connector assembly has the sleeve contact recessed to prevent contact following insertion into a conventional cigarette lighter socket.

Abstract: A mobile power tool and appliance operating system includes a portable lead-acid battery pack having a high current capacity socket compatible with existing low current plugs used with appliances intended to operate from automotive cigarette lighter sockets. Matable high current capacity plugs are attached to power tools and appliances through retractable cords. The battery pack is receivable in a 120 VAC powered charging base having a self-contained charging circuit including a transformer and a voltage regulator. The high current socket housing prevents inadvertent operation with an automotive cigarette lighter plug, and the high current plug housing prevents electrical contact in a automotive cigarette lighter socket, for safety reasons. In another embodiment, the battery pack is provided with two sockets for delivering different power outputs at each respective socket. Recharging of the battery pack can also be accomplished via connection made to one of the sockets.