Separable Patents (Class 24/104)
  • Patent number: 11957219
    Abstract: A fastener element used to couple one or more items together, including layers of fabrics or other materials. The fastener element includes a top element having a central opening with a closed bottom surface adjoining a ring. On an underside of the ring is a protruding, piercing element that. The fastener element allows for more than two layers to be fastened together in a snap system and for a plurality of layers to be joined together. The fastener element can allow multiple layers to be joined together by coupling a first socket of a snap system to the top element and another socket to an underside of the ring and to the protruding piercing element. The fastener element can be used for multiple applications to secure more than one layer of fabric or another material together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventors: Lauren Sahagun, Nicholas Sahagun
  • Patent number: 11704528
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of gathering data from a hybrid RFID chip to determine usage of an item or article of clothing using a mobile device like a phone, laptop, or tablet. The hybrid RFID chip consists of a processor, a memory, a radio transceiver, a power harvesting antenna, and an impedance circuit that converts ambient radio frequency (RF) energy to electrical energy. The RFID chip receives a first power level from ambient RF energy and periodically broadcasts an identity. The mobile device can receive the broadcast identity, store the identity, transmit the identity and location to a remote server, and receive a notification message from the remote server. The remote serve can determine usage of the item or article of clothing by comparing current records to previous records of RFID chip identity, location, and mobile device application identity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: T-Mobile Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Ronald R. Marquardt, Lyle W. Paczkowski
  • Patent number: 11700919
    Abstract: Provided is a button attachment tool that can eliminate or reduce rotation of a cap relative to an attachment tool body. A button attachment tool comprises a metal attachment tool body and a synthetic resin cap to which the attachment tool body is coupled. The attachment tool body includes a cylindrical part and a flange part extending radially outward from one axial end of the cylindrical part. The flange part includes a plurality of notches recessed radially inward from a peripheral edge of the flange part. The cap includes a clamping part that is fastened to a radially outer portion of the flange part including the plurality of notches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: YKK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Katsushi Kitano, Ryohei Nakawatase, Yusuke Saito, Jun Obuchi
  • Patent number: 11587426
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure involve an apparatus, systems, and methods for providing intelligent laundering alerts. Example embodiments involve an intelligent garment tag that may be affixed to garments, and may store and provide information about the garment to which it is affixed. The information stored thereon describes various aspects of the garment including color, fabric, and laundering information. The intelligent garment tags further include an alert component for providing laundering alerts (e.g., a flashing or colored light, a warning noise, or a vibration) based on, for example, garment color compatibility or laundering device (e.g., washing machine or clothes dryer) compatibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: eBay Inc.
    Inventors: Dane Glasgow, David Ramadge, Bria Selhorst, Corinne Sherman Stewart, Matthew Bret MacLaurin, Timothy Carlson
  • Patent number: 11528963
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods including a tapered shaft having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is distal from the second end, where a diameter of the first end is smaller than a diameter of the second end; a fixed footwear holder secured to the first end of the tapered shaft; a fixed charm mount secured to the second end of the tapered shaft; a floating washer disposed about the tapered shaft, where an aperture of the floating washer has an inner diameter that is greater than the diameter of the first end and less than the diameter of the second end; and where the fixed charm mount is configured to securely fasten a charm; and where a length of the tapered shaft is greater than a maximum distance between the floating washer and the fixed footwear holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: JOYBEES LLC
    Inventor: Joey Separzadeh
  • Patent number: 11528967
    Abstract: Provided is a male snap button (10) including a metal male snap body (20), and a fixing member (30) for fixing the male snap body (20) to a fabric (1). The male snap body (20) includes: a male-side engagement part (21) in annular shape capable of being removably engaged with a female-side engagement part (60) of a female snap button (40); and multiple claws (27). The male-side engagement part (21) defines an opening (28) that exposes the fabric (1) inside in a radial direction thereof. A diameter (D1) of the opening (28) is greater than a length (W1) in the radial direction from an outside edge of the opening (28) in the radial direction to an outside edge of the male snap body (20) in the radial direction. The fixing member (30, 30a) includes claw accommodation parts (33) to receive the claws (27).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: YKK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kota Kanno, Kazunori Somai, Daisuke Hayashi, Kohei Iwata, Nariko Kubota
  • Patent number: 11490695
    Abstract: Provided is a male snap button (10) including a metal male snap body (20), and a fixing member (30) for fixing the male snap body (20) to a fabric (1). The male snap body (20) includes: a male-side engagement part (21) in annular shape capable of being removably engaged with a female-side engagement part (60) of a female snap button (40); and multiple claws (27). The male-side engagement part (21) defines an opening (28) that exposes the fabric (1) inside in a radial direction thereof. A diameter (D1) of the opening (28) is greater than a length (W1) in the radial direction from an outside edge of the opening (28) in the radial direction to an outside edge of the male snap body (20) in the radial direction. The fixing member (30, 30a) includes claw accommodation parts (33) to receive the claws (27).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: YKK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kota Kanno, Kazunori Somai, Daisuke Hayashi, Kohei Iwata, Nariko Kubota
  • Patent number: 11019886
    Abstract: Provided is an injection-molded resin button, which does not crack or is unlikely to crack at attaching the button to a fabric. This invention relates to a button including a button body having a through-hole at the center thereof. The button body of the button includes a left half part and a right half part, which are segmented left and right by a virtual straight line passing through a gate position, on the button body, corresponding to a gate of a mold for molding the button and the center of the button body. The button body includes one or more concave portions or one or more convex portions on an outer surface of the button body. The button is characterized in that the concave portions or the convex portions are provided asymmetrically in the left and right half parts. The button body includes a nonlinear weld line at least on the outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: YKK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daisuke Hayashi, Hayuru Tanaka, Kota Kanno, Ryohei Nakawatase
  • Patent number: 11013309
    Abstract: An attachment device for coupling a floral arrangement to an article such as a lapel of a jacket, a floral apparatus that includes at least a portion of the attachment device and the floral arrangement, and a method of assembling such a floral apparatus. The attachment device may include a support element and a retaining element that are detachably coupled together. The support element includes a rib member and first and second posts extending from a bottom surface of the rib member in a spaced apart manner. The rib member and the first and second posts collectively define a receiving cavity that is configured to receive a portion of a stem of a floral arrangement. The retaining element includes one or more pins that extend into the rib member of the support element to couple the retaining element to the support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Inventors: Matthew C. Williams, Jeffrey J. Pyros, Daniel Slade Lykens, Michael Christopher Grobinski
  • Patent number: 10154701
    Abstract: An accessory is provided. The accessory is for use with a garment, such as a necktie or others. For example, the necktie includes a knot and an elongated portion extending from the knot downwardly. The accessory includes a helical body. The body includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion includes a tab extending therefrom. The tab is operative to secure onto the knot via tucking behind the knot such that the body at least partially overlays the knot frontally and extends from the tab helically around the elongated portion at least once and the second end portion is visible below the knot frontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Inventor: Christopher Lambert
  • Patent number: 9884454
    Abstract: A method is provided for introducing an opening on at least one component (B) of fiber composite material. The method includes introducing an opening (7) into the component (B) placed in a mold (1; 20). A form (4; 27) then is fashioned in the same mold (1; 20) in the vicinity of the opening. The method then includes filling a vicinity of the opening with plastic. The plastic forms a surround (5, 26) around the peripheral region of the component (B) that forms the opening (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: DR. ING. H.C.F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Lukas Woerner, Carsten Freymueller, Christian Goetze
  • Patent number: 9835190
    Abstract: Fastening clips, motorized vehicles with fastening clips, and methods for using fastening clips are disclosed. A fastening clip is disclosed for attaching a component to a panel using a threaded fastener. The fastening clip includes a body that inserts into the aperture. The clip body has a flange that seats against one surface of the panel. One or more flexible retaining clips project from the clip body to seat against an opposing panel surface and, with the flange, attach the fastening clip to the panel. Flexible ratchet fingers extend from the clip body into an internal cavity. The ratchet fingers are located on respective sides of the cavity, and are spaced to extend to respective axial positions within the cavity. These ratchet fingers are located and spaced so that only one ratchet finger, at a given time, seats between adjacent threads when the fastener is inserted into the internal cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ethan Landsberg, Jeremy P. Fellows, Randall L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 9781978
    Abstract: A male button for a snap button is provided that can have an enhanced appearance and that can obtain an advertising effect and a decoration effect while representing a luxurious appearance and that can prevent foreign substances from being entered therein. The male button for a snap button includes: a main body having a surface portion and a press fixing portion having closed front surfaces in order to form a receiving space within a fitting protrusion and a concave peripheral portion protruded in a cylindrical shape; a deformation prevention device received at the receiving space of the main body; a snap having a coupling rod and fixed to the press fixing portion of the main body; and a snap fixing plate inserted and fixed to the coupling rod of the snap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Inventors: Mal Soon Shin, Jea Kwang Lim, Jeong In Im
  • Patent number: 9107464
    Abstract: A quick release device comprises an anchor to couple to a safety helmet and a latch to couple to a tether. The anchor may include a cylindrical wall with an indentation circumferentially located thereon. The latch is configured to be attached to and removed from the anchor and may include a barrel, a plurality of ball bearings, and a push-pull button. The barrel may include a sidewall in which the ball bearings are rigidly retained when the latch is in a locked state and the ball bearings are loosely retained when the latch is in a released state. The push-pull button may cover one end of the barrel and may be pushed to attached the latch to the anchor and pulled to remove the latch from the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: No Limit Safety, LLC
    Inventors: Darnell Tom, Nathan Sanko
  • Publication number: 20150128383
    Abstract: A detachable button system has a fixed base component permanently attached to a garment and a detachable button component. The base and the detachable button components each have cooperating attachment elements that allow the components when assembled to function as a button. The button component may be easily detached by the user, and replaced with a different button component. The attachment elements may be a mateable combination of a slotted abutment cylinder and cooperating pin catch, a mateable combination of a threaded cylinder and threaded pin, or the like. The base component may have a disc or shank which can be sewn or otherwise attached to the garment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Timothy J. Ryan
  • Patent number: 8938861
    Abstract: A removably attachable button includes a pin assembly and a cap assembly. The pin assembly has a pair of pins which releasably engage the cap assembly. The cap assembly has a front surface which has the appearance of a button and a rear surface which accepts the pin assembly. The button is utilized to embellish or to replace a missing button on a piece of clothing without needing to access sewing equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Shan McLendon
  • Patent number: 8898864
    Abstract: An integrated rockably released leverage snap fastening system may be removably fastened to the male snap to hold at least one item such as a tarpaulin in place to a boat or the like. To facilitate unfastening, male snap and rockable lever snap assembly cooperatively combine to create a class 1 lever system which may permit a user to rockably release the snap while reducing risk of damage to the tarpaulin. Various embodiments are discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: David Porter
  • Patent number: 8656561
    Abstract: An apparatus for replacing a button is provided having a pin and a base. The pin includes a head and a stem attached to, and substantially perpendicular to, the head. The base includes a case having a cavity defined by a top surface including an opening for receiving the stem and a side surface coupled to the top surface. A mechanism for securing the pin within the case includes one or two springs, configured to releasably engage a ridged portion of the stem of the pin. The depth of insertion of the pin into the case is controlled by the engagement of the pin and the springs, a solid bottom surface of the case, and a flange on the stem that engages the top surface of the case at a desired depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jonkeo Doungdeth Ingels
  • Patent number: 8590185
    Abstract: A system for decorating, customizing, personalizing and accessorizing a casual garment, such as jeans and other casual pants, skirts, shirts, jackets and the like. The adornments include at least one fixed subassembly attached to material of the apparel and one or more interchangeable decorative adornment covers for attachment to each fixed subassembly. The interchangeable decorative adornment covers can be offered having different images or designs including flowers, animals, letters, numbers, coins, etc. Additionally the casual apparel may include a pocket having a transparent central member and a backing member forming an insert receptacle. A common pocket receptacle is formed between the backing member and the garment material. A decorative insert in placed into the insert receptacle and is visible through the transparent pocket fascia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Jardine
  • Patent number: 8593256
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) device including: a circuit provisioned to communicate an identification code to an RFID reader; a first antenna operatively connected to the circuit; and a radiating structure inductive coupled to the first antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Michael J. Isabell
  • Patent number: 8522403
    Abstract: A button is provided. A fixture fixes a button body to a support from an opposite side to the button body with the support therebetween. The button body includes a collar, a shaft protruding from the collar and an insert hole for the fixture to be inserted therein. An outer circular wall and an inner circular wall are formed at a tip end of the shaft separately from each other with a gap therebetween. The outer circular wall defines an outer periphery of the shaft and at least one protrusion for fixing the support thereon is formed at an upper surface of the outer circular wall. The inner circular wall defines an inner periphery of the insert hole. The protrusion protrudes relative to an upper surface of the inner circular wall and the gap is recessed relative to the upper surface of the inner circular wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventor: Daisuke Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8522404
    Abstract: A button assembly including a button head operable to rotate in three-dimensional space. The button assembly having a mounting portion and an elongated shaft attached to a base is provided. The button assembly includes a bearing member disposed on one end of the shaft. The bearing member is configured to fittingly engage the mounting portion of the button head so as to pivotably attach the button head to the shaft. The base may be inserted into an article of clothing in alignment with a corresponding buttonhole. Accordingly the user is able to rotate and pivot the button head about the bearing member of the shaft so as to facilitate the insertion of the button head into the buttonhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Danny Matei
  • Patent number: 8516663
    Abstract: Various cufflink embodiments are provided. In some embodiments, the cufflink has opposed first and second heads that are releasably locked relative to each other. In some embodiments, the opposed first and second heads can be locked releasably in multiple positions with respect to each another. In other embodiments, a stud or cufflink includes a removable decorative insert. In certain embodiments, a cufflink includes a retention structure configured to temporarily retain part of the cufflink on a shirt cuff. Some embodiments provide a cufflink having an actuator protected against inadvertent actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hollenwolff, LLC
    Inventor: Kyle C. Stoehr
  • Patent number: 8510978
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an RFID tag holder, which comprises an RFID tag carrier used to carry an RFID tag, and a base having a circular surface, a holding portion and at least one magnetic component disposed therein. The shape of the circular surface matches that of the disposing hole, the magnetic component is used to make the disposing hole magnetically attachable to combine the base with the disposing hole, and two clip arms of a holding unit grip the holding portion and hold the RFID tag carrier after passing through two through holes of a metal substrate. The RFID tag holder has the following advantages: fast installation, low cost and reusability; is suitable for disposing holes with any depth and size; reduced interference and improved reading effect; no extra processing cost; dust-proof, water-proof and oil-resistant; and better composability, extensibility and flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: China Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Sung-Lin Chen, Chang-Tsun Lin, Lien-Kuei Chiang
  • Publication number: 20130199000
    Abstract: A garment button for insertion into a button hole to secure two segments of material together, is described. Generally speaking, the button is a two piece device and includes a first body forming an outer perimeter of the button, the first body being sized to fit into a desired button hole and having an opening defined inside of the outer perimeter, and a second body detachably fixed within the opening, wherein the second body divides the opening to define two distinct and separate openings. The two bodies snap together after passing through a custom strap or loop of material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: LineWeight LLC
    Inventors: Caleb C. Crye, Michael Circosta
  • Patent number: 8490257
    Abstract: A functionally decorative fastening system includes first and second fastener portions, each fixable to an article, so as to selectively allow for the articles to be secured together purposes such as transit, storage or laundering. Complementary mating surfaces of each fastener portion include decorative features, such as artwork, logos, trademarks, or the like. The decorative mating surfaces serve functionally to selectively lock the two fastener portions together when aligned and pushed together. Such integrated fastening is accomplished via mechanical interaction between the decorative mating surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Paige Cameron
  • Publication number: 20130067692
    Abstract: There is disclosed a garment closure comprising a front component, a rear component and an intermediate connector component. The connector component fastens the front component and the rear component together so that the front component and rear component are in spaced relationship relative to each other. The rear component is configured for insertion through a fastener aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Marc Robinson
  • Publication number: 20130067693
    Abstract: There is disclosed a garment closure comprising a front component, a rear component and an intermediate connector component. The connector component fastens the front component and the rear component together so that the front component and rear component are in spaced relationship relative to each other. The rear component is configured for insertion through a fastener aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Marc Robinson
  • Publication number: 20120096683
    Abstract: A two-piece button having a backing member and a front member, the front member and back member securable by a securing means extending through alignable apparel button holes to secure a piece of apparel, the front member of the two piece button capable of receiving a unique design and/or indicia on its front face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas Suriano
  • Patent number: 8141211
    Abstract: A button engaging and attachment structure includes a button engaging portion having button engaging tabs, and a button attachment portion adapted to couple to a host carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Tecre Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie Weyer, Bruce Weyer
  • Patent number: 8122572
    Abstract: A fastening device and a method of using same is provided. The fastening device includes a male member having a projection on a first side and a securing means on a second opposing side. A female member configured to receive the projection detachably secures the female member onto the male member. The female member and the male member comprises a ratchet system to removeably secure the female member onto the male member. The securing means on the second opposing side of the male member is configured to mate with a corresponding securing member mounted on an object. By securing a material such as a shade screen or a tarp on the male member by mating the male member with the female member, the shade screen or tarp may be detachably fastened onto an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: EZ-Snap Products Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Waddell, Dean A. Myrfield
  • Patent number: 8096023
    Abstract: A button having three cooperating elements, 1) a traditional rivet, whose pin is engaged and held inside a corresponding housing centrally on the back of 2) a cylindrical joint with enlarged head, which is frontally provided with a central cylindrical conduit receiving a shank that centrally protrudes from the back of 3) a button head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Jonny Q Italia S.R.L.
    Inventor: Pasquale Orza
  • Patent number: 8032994
    Abstract: A fastening device and a method of using same is provided. The fastening device includes a male member having a projection on a first side and a securing means on a second opposing side. A female member configured to receive the projection detachably secures the female member onto the male member. The female member and the male member comprises a ratchet system to removeably secure the female member onto the male member. The securing means on the second opposing side of the male member is configured to mate with a corresponding securing member mounted on an object. By securing a material such as a shade screen or a tarp on the male member by mating the male member with the female member, the shade screen or tarp may be detachably fastened onto an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: EZ-Snap Products Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Waddell, Dean A. Myrfield
  • Publication number: 20110061207
    Abstract: A first clothing item is provided comprised of a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the first clothing item is configured so that it can be attached to or detached from the first portion of the first clothing item. A second clothing item is provided, comprised of a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the second clothing item is configured so that it can be attached to or detached from the second portion of the second clothing item. The second portions of the first and second clothing items may have the same first design. Alternate portions can replace the second portions so that alternate designs are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: Ludlow Forbes
  • Publication number: 20110056049
    Abstract: The use of decorative clothing fasteners may be limited by a maximum practical size of a button hole in the fabric of the clothing. Larger decorative buttons, or buttons with alternative shapes, may be used by forming a button hole on the inner piece of fabric to be attached, while the outer piece of fabric includes both an attachment to the inward facing button, and an attachment location for a decorative button cover, which may be of any shape or size. The use of other attachment methods other than buttons may benefit from the disclosed arrangement and may include snap fasteners, friction fasteners and hook and loop type fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Jason W. Rice
  • Patent number: 7884797
    Abstract: A connector featuring a conductive cap and conductive peg to be attached to any digit covering apparatus, such as a glove. The connector comprises a cap and peg made of a conductive material. The peg is placed on a user's digit and the at least one post mechanism is extended through the digit covering. The cap and peg are engaged by at least one post mechanism extending from the peg. The at least one post mechanism is received by at least one aperture on the cap. The connector also features a post mechanism on a back side of the connector. The post mechanism has a pin, pin head and pin holder that attaches the connector to the glove. Users do not have to remove their digit covering apparatus to interact with a touch screen device. The conductive connector affords the user the ability to input onto a touch-screen without removal of their digit covering apparatus, such as a glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Alice Ning
  • Patent number: 7797799
    Abstract: A directional retention device is provided that provides reliable retention of items as desired when force is applied in one direction but allows easy removal or detachment of the items from one another when force is applied in another direction. Specifically, the directional retention device includes a generally cylindrical button that has a peripheral slot. The device also includes a ring that defines an aperture sized to fit around the button with the ring in the peripheral slot. The button and ring are configured such that the ring is secured to the button when a predetermined force is applied to the ring in a first direction but is released from the button when the predetermined force is applied to the ring in a second direction opposing the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Jennifer P. Lawall
  • Publication number: 20100199466
    Abstract: A fastening device and a method of using same is provided. The fastening device includes a male member having a projection on a first side and a securing means on a second opposing side. A female member configured to receive the projection detachably secures the female member onto the male member. The female member and the male member comprises a ratchet system to removeably secure the female member onto the male member. The securing means on the second opposing side of the male member is configured to mate with a corresponding securing member mounted on an object. By securing a material such as a shade screen or a tarp on the male member by mating the male member with the female member, the shade screen or tarp may be detachably fastened onto an object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: EZ-Snap Products Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Waddell, Dean A. Myrfield
  • Publication number: 20090205171
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a button composed of three cooperating elements, characterised in that it uses a traditional rivet, whose pin is engaged and held inside a corresponding housing in central position on the back of a cylindrical joint with enlarged head, which is frontally provided with a central cylindrical conduit than receives a shank that centrally protrudes from the back of a button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Orza Pasquale
  • Publication number: 20090172919
    Abstract: A directional retention device is provided that provides reliable retention of items as desired when force is applied in one direction but allows easy removal or detachment of the items from one another when force is applied in another direction. Specifically, the directional retention device includes a generally cylindrical button that has a peripheral slot. The device also includes a ring that defines an aperture sized to fit around the button with the ring in the peripheral slot. The button and ring are configured such that the ring is secured to the button when a predetermined force is applied to the ring in a first direction but is released from the button when the predetermined force is applied to the ring in a second direction opposing the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Jennifer P. Lawall
  • Patent number: 7526839
    Abstract: An improved button structure which includes a pillar element and a zinc casting body. The pillar element is provided with a hollow cylinder at the bottom and an expanding disk, which is provided with pluralities of through holes, on the top. The zinc casting body is provided with a smooth plane at the upper surface, and pluralities of engaging posts, which have positioning portions, at the bottom surface. The through holes of the pillar element are mounted on the engaging posts of the zinc casting body, such that the pillar element can be positioned at the positioning portions of the engaging posts and further mortised to lock to the top end of the engaging posts which extrude out of the disk to form blunt heads to accomplish a firm combination, thereby enhancing the benefit in production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Shih-Sheng Yang
  • Patent number: 7429143
    Abstract: An improved connector (15) for selectively joining two parts (16, 32), each of the parts having inner (18, 33) and outer (19, 34) surfaces and a keyhole opening (20, 35) between the inner and outer surfaces, each of the keyhole openings having first (21, 36) and second (22, 38) spaced enlargements and a slot (23, 39) extending between the first and second enlargements, comprising a body (48) having a first portion (49) configured to pass through the first enlargements but not to pass through the second enlargements, a second portion (50) configured to not pass through the second enlargements, and a third portion (51) configured to move in the slots between the first enlargements and the second enlargements, a member (58) in engagement with the body and moveable relative to the body between a first position (61) and a second position (62) and having a first portion (59) configured to move in the slots between the first enlargements and the second enlargements, and a second portion (60) configured to extend thr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: Wlodzimierz M Tyski
  • Publication number: 20080209689
    Abstract: A method of assembling a plastic locking device with a surface material, wherein a side-open female button, riveting elements and a surface material are assembled, which includes the steps of: providing through holes on peripheries of the female button, and providing a protruded locking slot on a plate body of the female button; providing holes on the surface material; overlapping the through holes of the female button on the holes of the surface material; transfixing the riveting elements into the through holes of the female button and the holes of the surface material; and using a punch pin to pressurize and rivet for riveting and connecting the female button with the surface material thereby firmly assembling the female button to the surface material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL TRIM SUPPLY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SHIH-SHENG YANG
  • Patent number: 7216404
    Abstract: A fastener system mounts a pouch onto a shirt or other clothing article, wherein the pouch provides a receptacle aperture into which a fastener is placed with its flanges positioned on opposing sides of the aperture. The cloth to which the fastener is mounted is gripped between the fastener and the aperture and is locked into place by a U-shaped clip. The flanges are made oblong in shape so that the narrow orientation of the flanges easily pass through the aperture, but the longer orientation cannot. Flats may be applied to both aperture and the fastener so as to assure an orientation in use wherein the fastener cannot disengage from the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth Doyle
  • Patent number: 7150081
    Abstract: A device for joining sets of two or more clothing items, such as socks, gloves or the like, comprises at least two identical components (1, 1?) that can be coupled to each other, as well as a textile item including entire sets of underwear, home linen etc. that incorporates the device for pairing the items when they are washed, dried or stored, preventing having to search for the correct paid of each item before using them. Each of the components (1, 1?) is in turn divided into an outer part (2, 2?) and an inner part (3, 3?) that are also coupled to each other by inserting ribs (5, 5?) provided on the inner face of the outer part (2, 2?) in the orifice (4, 4?) made in the centre of the inner part (3, 3?) so that they are secured in them; the outer, smooth face can bear advertising symbols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Industrias Sinteticas Catalanas, S.L.
    Inventor: Sergio Nolla Juan
  • Patent number: 7137176
    Abstract: Arrangement in a device for identifying counterfeit apparel including a cylindrical button body (1) coupled to a circular base, (2) forming a circular space (4) housing an encapsulated assembly formed by a chip (6) and an antenna (5). The encapsulated assembly forms an opening that receives a plastic plug (7) which has a lower circular flap located in a hole provided on the button base. A locking pin is coupled to the button body. Alternatively, the button body is forms a circular guide (11) which is concentric to the assembly. The button body has a terminal circular flap (12) configuring an opening (10) between the internal walls of the button base (2) and the circular flap (12). The chip (6) stores data through programmed codes in a logical sequence containing a fixed code identifying the apparel article and a flexible code to save complementary information on the apparel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Global ID South América Ltda.
    Inventor: Milton Flávio de Macedo
  • Patent number: 6997265
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving pipe on a rig floor between a number of different stations including an off-floor rack, a preparation opening, a borehole, and a storage area, such that tubulars can be loaded onto the drill floor, prepared at the preparation opening, loaded onto or off of the storage rack, and connected to a drill string while drilling is simultaneously conducted at the borehole, comprising at least two pipehandling devices, at least one of the pipehandling devices having multiple independent gripping arms, the pipehandling devices being arranged for communicating pipe between a storage area off the drill floor, a storage area on the drill floor, at least one preparation opening, and a drill opening are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Berry
  • Patent number: 6976540
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving pipe on a rig floor between a number of different stations are provided. Generally the apparatus includes pipehandling equipment arranged to interact with an off-floor rack, a preparation opening, a borehole, and a storage area, such that tubulars can be loaded onto the drill floor, prepared at the preparation opening, loaded onto or off of the storage rack, and connected to a drill string while drilling is simultaneously conducted at borehole. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two pipehandling devices for communicating pipe between a storage area off the drill floor, a storage area on the drill floor, at least one preparation opening, and a drill opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Berry
  • Patent number: 6766565
    Abstract: A garment with a flexible fabric shell has a pocket or vent opening with a resealable closure such as a zipper, snaps, or hook and loop fasteners, which is operable between a closed position, in which the opening in the shell is closed, and an open position, in which the opening in the shell is revealed. A resilient spring member of springy plastic, composite, metal or other material is mounted to the fabric around the opening, and has two arms which have portions which are displaced vertically from one another when the closure is open, but which are resiliently compressed into a common plane when the closure is sealed. Each time the closure is opened, the spring member urges portions of the shell on either side of the flap apart, to thereby enlarge the area of the opening and permit access or air flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: LineWeight LLC
    Inventors: Caleb Clark Crye, Eric Owen Fehlberg, Gregg M. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20030177617
    Abstract: A stainless steel suitable for use with a needle detector, that has a magnetic permeability of 1.005 or less in a magnetic field of 1 kOe, and a magnetization of 550 memu/g or less in a magnetic field of 18 kOe. The steel comprises, in mass %, 0.01 to 0.15% of C, 0.1 to 5% of Si, 1 to 10% of Mn, 8 to 25% of Ni, 14 to 30% of Cr, 0.01 to 0.25% of N, and the remainder Fe and impurities, wherein an Ni equivalent, which is defined as Ni equivalent=Ni+0.6Mn+9.69(C+N)+0.18Cr−0.11Si2, has a value of 19 or more, and may further contain at least one selected from among a) 0.5 to 3% of Cu, b) 0.05 to 0.5% of at least one element selected from Nb, W and V, and c) 0.1 to 2% of Mo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Kita, Sakae Awata, Kouki Sugihara, Satoshi Suzuki, Katsumi Ishii, Naoto Hiramatsu