Metal Bands Patents (Class 24/20R)
  • Patent number: 6163016
    Abstract: A low profile heater for plastic injection molding equipment nozzles utilizes forces provided to the axially ends of a tube portion to radially compress the tube portion onto a coiled heater element thereby compressing the heater element radially inward for optimal heat conduction between said heater element and the nozzle onto which the heater is attached. Further embodiments uses a base sleeve onto which the coiled heater element is placed to engage the nozzle. The base sleeve may utilize a tapered threaded portion with slits in the sleeve to allow tightening of a ring portion to radially compress the sleeve base onto the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Thermetic Products, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Evan Johnson, Eric Carl Branwall
  • Patent number: 6152455
    Abstract: The expandable band is used to secure a sealing element within a generally cylindrical structure, such as a pipe or manhole, or other round hole. The expandable band includes a band body having a first band end portion and a second band end portion. A plurality of slots are disposed in the first band end portion, and a locking member extends from the second band end portion. The locking member includes a tab for extending through the second band end portion and into one of the plurality of slots to lock the expandable band at the desired diameter. An end section of the second band end portion extends beyond the tab of the locking member to ease the transition between the overlapping first and second band end portions. When the band is expanded, the tab is disengaged from the slots and slides over the slots, allowing the first and second band end portions to move relative to one another. At the desired diameter, the tab engages one of the slots to lock the band at the desired diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: NPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Brockway, Lester F. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6131245
    Abstract: A fastening ring structure includes a metallic strap formed with a U-shaped bending section spaced from one end of the strap by a predetermined distance. Two ends of the bending section are formed with a first and a second sections. The second section is formed with multiple engaging holes at equal intervals. Two inner engaging hooks project from inner side of the first section toward the bending section. Two outer engaging hooks and a locating plate project from outer side of the first section toward the bending section. Two ends of the strap are curved into a circular shape with the first section overlapping the second section on inner or outer side thereof. The inner or outer engaging hooks and locating plate of the first section are engaged in the engaging holes of the second section to form a fastening ring. The inner or outer engaging hooks can be engaged in different engaging holes to achieve a longer adjustment length of the fastening ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Meng Yu Chi
  • Patent number: 6128811
    Abstract: An apron forming apparatus and method for bending and joining the ends of a pair of apron half segments includes a series of four apron support surfaces lying in a common plane. A clamping arrangement is mounted on each of the apron support surfaces for selectively clamping an apron half segment. A bending arrangement is secured to each of the apron support surfaces for selectively bending an apron half segment. Each of the apron half segments is disposed between a clamping arrangement and a bending arrangement on a pair of apron support surfaces such that the apron half segments lie substantially parallel to each other. Each of the bending arrangements is movable into engagement with an apron half segment to bend the apron half segment such that the ends of one bent apron half segment are placed in overlapping relationship with the ends of the other bent apron half segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc
    Inventors: James D. Panzer, Daniel R. Lindgren
  • Patent number: 6122804
    Abstract: A metal cable tie includes a tensioning strip and a head piece designed as a sheet metal part in the form of an elongate capsule with a tapering capsule cross section to receive a locking ball. The head piece includes at least one capsule wall being opposite the capsule bottom and designed to be elastically deflectable and provided with an opening for latching the locking ball in the latched position. A narrowed end of the capsule has an opening suitable for the insertion of a tool to push the locking ball out of the latching position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Krister Gamaggio-Schafer
  • Patent number: 6101684
    Abstract: A device for handling or storing bundled items such as electrical cords or cables is provided by using a handcuff-like element having jaws that self-sustain an open position while the bundled item is inserted therein and which traverse a fixed path or trajectory to close on the bundled item. The device may also be used handling or storing key rings, belts, fabrics such as napkins, jewelry, shopping bags, and plantings, among other applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Mark H. Ginocchio
  • Patent number: 6098251
    Abstract: A hose clamp is provided with a pair of radially outward bent terminal ends, which are squeezable towards each other to expand the clamp. One of the terminal ends is provided with a projecting tongue that cooperates with the other terminal end to function as an interlocking assembly. Each of the terminal ends is also provided with one of a projection or depression to secure the other terminal end thereto. The interlocking assembly maintains the clamp in an expanded state, while resisting uncoupling of the terminal ends in a lateral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Rotor Clamp, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Zielinski
  • Patent number: 6093108
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bellows device (17) including an elastic bellows (19) adapted to be connected at a first end to a first rotary member (9) and the second end of which has a portion (24) turned back axially outwards, the free end of this turned back portion being adapted to be fixed to a second rotary member (11). The device includes a rigid member (21) for stabilizing the bellows (19) including a radially external connecting part adapted to assure axial retention of said member (21) relative to the second rotary member (11) and a radially internal part (33) adapted to extend axially towards the turned back portion (24), inside the latter, and to have an annular surface facing the bellows (19) that is free of sharp edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: GKN Automotive AG
    Inventor: Fran.cedilla.ois Moulinet
  • Patent number: 6088886
    Abstract: A clamp for clamping a hose fast on a pipe clamp that includes a clamp band and a spring ring that is fixed with a first portion thereof to the clamp band. The spring ring elastically clamps the hose when the clamp is initially fitted on the hose, but is not yet clamped fast to the hose At least a second portion of the spring ring is at least predominantly disposed within the clamp band. The spring ring is made of spring steel sheet so that the clamp can be made compact to save material. The spring ring provides a firmer locking of the initially fitted clamp on the hose and ensures that the clamping force of the clamp is more uniformly distributed over the periphery of the hose because the clamp can slide on the outer circumferential surface of the spring ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Jurgen Gyongyosi
  • Patent number: 6085394
    Abstract: A coupler and a method for securing foam tube insulation elements to one another for pipes, comprising of a strip having a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface may have a series of tab-like projections that define openings between the top surface and the bottom surface. The top surface may also have a series of teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Industrial Thermo Polymers Limited
    Inventor: Steven David Hartman
  • Patent number: 6076235
    Abstract: A ball/roller-lock cable tie for holding an article or group of articles together in a bundle including a elongate strap body capable of being deformed to encompass the article or group of articles; a locking head disposed adjacent one end of the strap body for receiving a second end of the strap body; and a ball or cylindrical pin, positioned within the locking head, for lockingly engaging the second end of the strap body. The tie further includes a strap body extension attached to and extending from the locking head such that the extension is sandwiched between the article or articles being bundled and the second end of the strap body upon insertion into the locking head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc
    Inventor: Wasim Khokhar
  • Patent number: 6058576
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting two strand ends such as those found on jewelry pieces such as necklaces, chains and bracelets. The method and apparatus involve fastening the two strand ends using a connecting member attached to one strand and a receiving member attached to another strand end, wherein the connecting member may be removably fastened to the receiving member using a predetermined sequence of simple movements and rotations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Howard Edwin Harris
  • Patent number: 6052873
    Abstract: A shaped clip includes a metal band having axial flanges, a first clamping wall and a second clamping wall. A barb is bent over on the radially outer end of the first clamping wall. A barb has a first hook section and a second hook section. A latching hook is connected to a radially outer edge of the second clamping wall. The latching hook is formed from an L-shaped planar strip and has a first limb and second limb. To move the shaped clip from an open position to a closed position, the clamping walls are pressed together the so that the latching hook is latched to the barb by sliding an inclined surface of the second limb against an inclined end surface of the second hook section radially inwardly, over and beyond the inclined end surface of the latching hook thereby latching the shaped clip into a retention position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Uwe Cuno
  • Patent number: 6044525
    Abstract: A fastener strap sheet is provided that includes (a) a sheet material having a first surface and a second surface substantially opposite the first surface, the first surface being constructed for face-to-face cooperating engagement with the second surface; and (b) a pattern of cuts extending through the sheet material, the cuts defining an array of fastener straps, each fastener strap including an elongated body having a predetermined width, and a head portion at one end of the body having a width greater than the predetermined width and defining an opening through which the strap body can be pulled. The array of straps define a first set of straps and a second set of straps, the heads of the first set, being located on a first side of the array and the heads of the second set being located on a second, opposite side of the array, and the bodies of the first set being directly bordered by and parallel with the bodies of the second set, in an interdigitated arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Jordi Blade Sastre, Mireia Musquera Ferrer, William Clune, Samuel W. Pollard, Clifton Wall
  • Patent number: 6038744
    Abstract: A hose clamp is provided with a pair of radially outward bent terminal ends which are squeezable towards each other to expand the clamp. One of the terminal ends is provided with a projecting tongue which cooperates with the other terminal end to function as a stop member as well as an interlocking assembly. The interlocking assembly maintains the clamp in an expanded state while the stop member prevents the clamp from over expansion thereby maintaining its structural integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Rotor Clamp, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Zielinski
  • Patent number: 6023815
    Abstract: A hose clip is made of a metal band having a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion and the second end portion overlap each other when the hose clip is in a closed position so that the second end portion is disposed radially inwardly with respect to the first end portion. The second end portion has a first radially outwardly directed closure member. The second end portion has a first cutting edge having a first portion adjoining the first closure member. The first portion extends substantially transversely with respect to a peripheral direction of the band. The second end portion has a first clamping jaw protruding radially outwardly from the band. In the closed position, the first clamping jaw is not overlapped by the first end portion. The first portion of the first cutting edge defines a projection that is oriented towards the first clamping jaw. The projection extends parallel to the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz Sauer
  • Patent number: 6021551
    Abstract: A clamping collar (10) constituted by a semi-rigid wire that is rolled up to form at least one turn (11) with a first end (12) thereof being provided with a hook (16) extending transversely to the plane of the turn and with a second end (14) thereof being folded back outwardly to form an extension (26) lying substantially in the plane of the turn. The extension (26) includes a fastening fold (28) forming a setback going towards the center of the turn, and it also includes a pre-fastening fold (32) situated between that end (24) of the extension (26) which is connected to the turn (11) and the fastening fold (28), said pre-fastening fold being analogous to the fastening fold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Etablissements Caillau
    Inventors: Pascal Detable, Michel Andre
  • Patent number: 6014792
    Abstract: The non-preformed clamping device of the present invention includes a buckle having an inclined shroud and a raised rear portion and a band having a pair of retention members for holding the buckle in position on the band. The buckle and band can further include matching markers to permit the user to properly orient the buckle on the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Band-It-Idex, Inc.
    Inventors: Miklos Marelin, Mark Mossbrucker, Hans R. Hinnen, John E. Whalen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6000104
    Abstract: A clip for clamping an article, such as a hose, includes an annular clip band and a plurality of annular insert bands. Each of the insert bands has a first end section and a second end section. The end sections extend in the circumferential direction and overlap one another. One of the insert bands selectively surrounds a radial inside surface of the clip band. Each of the insert bands has a resistance to a relative displacement occurring in the circumferential direction of their mutually overlapping end sections. The resistances for each of the insert bands differs in such a manner that, when a predetermined clamping force is exerted on the clip band in the circumferential direction, a different predetermined radial clamping force on the clamped article results with the use of each respective insert band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Rasmussern GmbH
    Inventor: Stephan Mann
  • Patent number: 5996186
    Abstract: A clamp member comprises a shaped belt of spring sheet curled in a ring form with a pair of end leaves crossing each other in a circumferential direction of the ring form. One end leaf is bent in a radial direction of the ring form to provide a grip formed with a tip part configured with a top edge extending substantially in an axial direction of the ring form. The other leaf is bent in another radial direction of the ring form to provide another grip formed with a tip part configured with a top edge extending substantially in the axial direction. The top edge of this latter grip has a raised portion raised toward the other grip. A holder holds the two tip parts close together to enlarge the ring form, and comprises a top wall, and a pair of side walls each formed with a stopper to abut on a top end face of an axially extending portion of a corresponding top edge. The raised portion of the grip facilitates removing the holder with the use of a tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Piolax, Inc.
    Inventors: Satoshi Yamada, Masahiro Aihara
  • Patent number: 5979020
    Abstract: A hose clip for clamping a hose includes a clamping ring formed by annularly bending a strip of spring plate and deformed between a reduced-diameter state and a spread-diameter state. An arcuate portion is formed in either one of the ends of the clamping ring. A first knob is formed by bending the arcuate portion radially outward with respect to the clamping ring. A second knob is formed by bending the other free end of the clamping ring radially outward with respect to the clamping ring as so to pass through the arcuate portion. An engaged piece is formed on the one end of the clamping ring so as to project axially with respect to the clamping ring within a width of the spring plate. An engaging edge is formed on the other end of the clamping ring so as to move over the engaged piece and engage it when the first and second knobs are slid to come close to each other, thereby holding the clamping ring in the spread-diameter state with the knobs being substantially superposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Togo Seisakusyo Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Kimura, Isao Kato, Masahide Sato, Yuji Nakamura, Kazuyoshi Murase
  • Patent number: 5953794
    Abstract: A magazinable strip of sealing clips (10) for bags and tubes, whose individual clips each consist of a clip bottom (14) and two legs (16, 18) and are connected with each other at the ends of the legs, is formed such that the sealing clips (10) are widest adjacent the clip bottom (14), and the width of the adjoining legs (16, 18) of two adjacent sealing clips (10) unilaterally decreases to less than half the maximum width alternatingly towards the one and the other longitudinal side.The longitudinal sides (32", 34") of the two legs (16", 18") resting against each other upon closure of the sealing clip can have locking teeth which restrict a springing back of the legs of the sealing clip when the same has been closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Poly-Clip System Gmbh & Co., KG
    Inventors: Jurgen Hanten, Gunter Vermehren
  • Patent number: 5943743
    Abstract: A hose clamp having a self-threading hardened screw extending through tabs on the clamp, the head end of the screw fitting through a clearance opening in the first tab, and the screw threadably engaged with the second tab, the second tab being bendable upon screw tightening to cause the screw angle to change sufficiently for the screw threads to cut slots in the band, forming a worm-type drive engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Builder's Best, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Andersen
  • Patent number: 5940939
    Abstract: A one piece, flat band clamp includes a clamp band and a snap closure. The snap closure includes a catch hook disposed at the radial outer end of a first clamping jaw. An abutment is formed near a free end of a stem, which is connected at an essentially right angle to the outer radial end of a second clamping jaw. The catch hook is narrower in axial width than the clamp. In the closed position of the snap closure, the hook engages in an opening of the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Geppert
  • Patent number: 5933937
    Abstract: A clamp structure with a clamping band which can be used, for example, to fixedly secure a hose on a nipple and which includes a tightening arrangement for tightening the clamp structure about the object to be fastened and a tolerance-compensating arrangement for the entire tolerance range of the hose and nipple. The tolerance-compensating arrangement is thereby formed by a slot-like opening punched-out of the clamping band which is of such width and length that the lateral clamping band portions left on both sides of the slot-like opening provide tolerance compensation at the clamping forces specified by the customer, taking into consideration also the fact that the material of the lateral band portions is work-hardened by the punching-out operation of the tolerance-compensating opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Hans Oetiker AG
    Inventor: Hans Oetiker
  • Patent number: 5926922
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus for use with band heaters for heating nozzles of plastic extruding and injection molding machines to maintain intimate contacts between the heater and the cylindrical surface being heated as well as a clamping apparatus of general application for maintaining intimate contact between the apparatus and the cylindrical object to be clamped. The clamping apparatus comprises a generally cylindrical strap incorporating a heater mechanism, or without a heater mechanism therein, which includes end portions, at least one of which has an upstanding tab with one or more openings therein for receiving a ratchet clip which upon movement thereof, causes the interior of the cylindrical strap to tightly engage the generally cylindrical object to be clamped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Thermal Corporation
    Inventor: Robert D. Stottle
  • Patent number: 5918350
    Abstract: A clamping collar constituted by a rolled-up first metal strip portion referred to as an "inner" portion and having two radial folds in the vicinity of one of its ends forming a "lug", and by a second strip portion referred to as an "outer" portion, which is fixed at its first end to the outside face of the inner portion, which has an undulation forming a reserve of resilience, which is provided at its second end with a hook suitable for engaging behind the lug while the collar is being clamped, and which includes an "intermediate" part situated between the undulation and the hook and extending substantially along the periphery of the inner portion which thus has a covered zone covered by said intermediate part. The collar includes first and second abutment means formed respectively on the intermediate part of the outer portion and on the covered zone of the inner portion and suitable for co-operating with each other to set a limit on use of the reserve of resilience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Etablissements Caillau
    Inventors: Pascal Detable, Michel Andre, Henri Viratelle
  • Patent number: 5892806
    Abstract: A spacer for maintaining a pressure tube in spaced relation with a caland tube of a nuclear reactor. The spacer comprising a split ring adapted to be disposed about the outer surface of said pressure tube. The ring has a central annular body portion with a raised bearing surface thereon adapted to contact the inner surface of said calandria tube and prevent contact between said outer surface and said inner surface. An annular land projecting from each side of said central body portion is adapted to receive a collar thereon effective create an interference fit between said ring and said pressure tube and thereby constrain axial movement of said spacer on said pressure tube. The spacer of the present invention maintains its location on the pressure tube and does not suffer the axial movement which characterizes some conventional spacers. The bearing surface can have a coating to reduce wear and heat transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Atomic Energy of Canada Limited/Energie Atomique du Canada Limitee
    Inventor: David A. Scott
  • Patent number: 5888392
    Abstract: The present invention relates to filters for coffee, tea, hot chocolate etc., in which a filter is placed in a cylindrical container and whatever is to be filtered is placed in the filter that has been placed in the cylindrical container. Thereafter, either hot or ice cold water, in the case of iced tea, is poured into the cylindrical container over that which is to be filtered. In more cases than not, the filter collapses, especially in the case of coffee and tea, the result is that coffee grinds and tea leaves eventually get into the coffee cup or tea leaves get into the tea cup. The present invention solves this problem by providing a retention ring of shape retaining inert material, such as plastic or stainless steel that is capable of being compressed in size placing it inside the filter that has been placed in the cylindrical container that is to be filled with a product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas Frizell
  • Patent number: 5873813
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing and maintaining a penile erection in a male suffering from erectile dysfunction includes a resilient ring member defining an inner opening through which the penis is inserted. The inside circumferential surface adjacent the inner opening is supple and adapted to contact the shaft of the penis. The cross-sectional area of the inner opening is adjustable between a minimum cross-sectional area which is sized sufficiently small to restrict the return venous blood flow from the penis to the torso (i.e. restrict excessive venous leakage) and larger cross-sectional areas. The apparatus includes a pair of spaced apart handles extending outwardly from the resilient ring member which allow the user of the apparatus to quickly adjust the cross-sectional area of the inner opening. In use, a flaccid penis is inserted through the inner opening of the resilient ring member and the resilient ring member is placed in the closed position at the base of the penis adjacent the torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: B.S.W. Partnership
    Inventor: Robert R. Weiss
  • Patent number: 5864926
    Abstract: A spring band clamp is comprised of an annular spring band having a first end portion and a second end portion. Each end portion has a spreading jaw that projects beyond a periphery of the spring band. The first end portion has a tongue spaced from the spreading jaw of the first end portion extending radially outwardly from a U-shaped incision in the first end portion and has a free end surface extending perpendicularly with respect to a direction of extension of the tongue. An abutment is formed by a radially inner edge of the free end surface of the tongue. The second end portion has a slot extending in a circumferential direction. The first end portion projects through the peripheral slot in the second end portion. The spring band exerts a closing spring force, which is directed in the circumferential direction. The closing spring force is greater in an open position of the spring band clamp than in an operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Rasmussen GMBH
    Inventors: Jurgen Gyongyosi, Bernd Beicht, Werner Ruppert, Ralf Spors
  • Patent number: 5855044
    Abstract: A clamping device is provided for use in applying radial compressive loading on a deformable tube to retain the tube on a fixed tubular element. The device includes a central portion and first and second interengaged end portions with the first end portion having parallel side pieces and a pair of outwardly extending legs dependent one from each of the side pieces. The legs are spaced apart and a bridge extends between the legs outwardly of the legs. The second end portion has a central piece extending between the legs of the first end portion and including a radial projection extending outwardly from the end of the central piece and defining an outwardly facing step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: ACD Tridon Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin M. Cradduck
  • Patent number: 5852850
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chain of interconnected closure clips, designed for the necks of bags or film tubes, having a uniform cross-sectional profile and two free ends lockable together to close the closure clip, which chain is characterized in that the closure clips comprise projections located in mutual alignment between the ends on the outer contour and are connected only in the region of these projections, such that the projections form a through-web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: Poly-Clip System Corp.
    Inventors: Jurgen Hanten, Eggo Haschke, Walter Grzondziel, Gunter Vermehren
  • Patent number: 5820166
    Abstract: The invention provides a positioning device engaged loosely on a prestressed hose clamp to locate and orientate the hose clamp on a hose. The device is adapted to engage about the clamp and has inwardly facing pegs which serve both to locate the device loosely on the clamp and to engage the hose to bias the clamp into engagement with the hose thereby holding the clamp orthogonally with respect to the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: ACD Tridon Inc.
    Inventor: Scott D. Webb
  • Patent number: 5819376
    Abstract: A hose clamp comprises a circular clamp body of resilient material having an axis, a central portion and circumferentially overlapping opposite ends having axially adjacent inner edges. The body is circumferentially spreadable against the resiliency of said material from an unexpanded to an expanded condition in which a keeper on one of the ends circumferentially interengages with a catch on the other end to releasably hold said body in said expanded condition. The opposite ends of the body are displaceable relative to one another to disengage the keeper and catch to release the body for return to the unexpanded condition, and the central portion is provided with openings which, in combination with the structure of the ends, provide uniformity of clamping force around the circumference of the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Barnes Group Inc.
    Inventors: Lev S. Kovalsky, Werner Weller
  • Patent number: 5815892
    Abstract: A profile clamp includes a clamp band that has a first axial end, a second axial end, a first circumferential end portion and a second circumferential end portion. A first flange depends from the first axial end. A second flange depends from the second axial end. A first clamping wall projects radially outwardly from the first circumferential end portion. A second clamping wall projects radially outwardly from the second circumferential end portion. An approximately radially extending locking hook is disposed at a free end of the first clamping wall to form a slightly angled tongue. An approximately circumferentially extending web is connected to a radial outer end of the second clamping wall. The web has an opening disposed adjacent to a free end of the web. The free end of the web is angled slightly radially outwardly. The opening is defined by a plurality of edges. An abutment is formed by at least one of the edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Geppert
  • Patent number: 5810503
    Abstract: Clamping device for clamping a shaft to a base member including a base member, at least one clamping element spaced from the base member, a shaft having a longitudinal axis and extending along the base member between the base member and clamping element, connecting links connecting the clamping element to the base member, and a bolt for moving the clamping element into locking engagement with the shaft exerting a clamping action on the shaft which is parallel to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Raphael Schlanger
  • Patent number: 5797168
    Abstract: The present invention provides a two-loop coiled type clamping device for semipermanently fixing a fluid conveying hose, dustproof bellows, axial boot or other article to be fixed 10 to the circumferential connecting surface 32 of a mating device 31, characterized in that in order to elastically accommodate changes in the hardness or thickness of the article 10, it is arranged that in a region where the inner and outer overlap portions 11a and 11b of a clamp band 11 overlap each other through the intermediate overlap portion 11c in three layers by a fixed amount X, a first fixing tooth 18 directed inwardly of the outer overlap portion 11b and a second fixing tooth 22 directed outwardly of the intermediate overlap portion 11c come in seizure engagement with each other and in a region where two-layer overlapping takes place excluding said fixed mount X, a plurality of float leg pieces 23 interposed between the external and internal contact regions X1 and X2 enables the clamp band 11 to store diametrically direc
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kenlock
    Inventor: Kenji Nagano
  • Patent number: 5788201
    Abstract: An article hanger or keeper comprises a wire formed as a major portion of one turn of a geometric solenoid with two hook end portions having bent-back ends which include bends of approximately .pi. radians (180.degree.) around a radius approximating the diameter of the wire, to provide hangers which may be used singly or in series. The hangers are easy for a human to install and lock or unlock, without a need for any auxiliary tool, but very unlikely to become accidentally unlocked. One disclosed embodiment utilizes a slightly elliptical turn, which renders the hanger self-orienting to deter one type of accidental unlocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Perky-P Co.
    Inventor: Stewart Hardison
  • Patent number: 5782090
    Abstract: One or more hose clips may advantageously be used to rout and releasably secure a hose assembly such as those included in a vacuum manifold assembly, to a fixed structure of a motor vehicle. The hose clip has a main body which is circumferentially open-sided, partially defining a hose-receiving space which has an inside, free stat cross-sectional dimension and attachment means extending from the main body for attachment into an opening in the firewall of the motor vehicle. The attachment means may preferably be a christmas tree stem. The main body of the hose clip has an opening sized to receive hoses of varying diameters. On one side of the main body of the opening is a flange and on the other side of the main body is a tab. Extending from the flange is a hook with serrations which engage corresponding serrations on the tab to close the opening and retain the hose. The clip may preferably have a pair of hooks, each angled with the flange so as to lockingly secure hoses of different diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Excel Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas M. B. Locke
  • Patent number: 5768751
    Abstract: An earless clamp structure in which the clamping band is provided with tool-engaging abutment surfaces for tightening the clamp and a mechanical connection for connecting the overlapping band portions in the completely tightened condition; to avoid lifting up of the free end of the outer band portion during tightening, the latter is provided with a reinforcement in the form of a pressed-out embossment or the like, at least partially surrounding the tunnel-shaped member in the adjoining area of the outer band end portion; a hook-like member for mechanically connecting the overlapping band portions which is provided in the inner band portion has a substantially rectilinear obliquely outwardly extending rear surface adjoined by a substantially flat top portion which is adapted to snap-in from below over the surface of the clamping band portion located at the edge formed by the transverse cut nearer the free end of the outer band portion of the first tunnel-shaped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Hans Oetiker AG Maschinen- und Apparatefabrik
    Inventor: Hans Oetiker
  • Patent number: 5768752
    Abstract: A compression ring with a mechanical connection in which the tongue-like member in the male part is provided with an enlarged head portion defined by transversely extending abutment surfaces forming a right angle with the lateral abutment surfaces of the enlarged head portion whereby the lateral abutment surfaces of the enlarged head portion pass over into the transverse end abutment surface of the head portion by way of a curved portion. The joints of some of the transversely extending abutment surfaces are subjected to swaging action to displace material in such a manner that the tendency of the male and female parts of the mechanical connection to move relative to one another in the radial direction is significantly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Hans Oetiker AG Maschinen-Und Apparatefabrik
    Inventor: Hans Oetiker
  • Patent number: 5749603
    Abstract: A holding device for securing a hose clip in position relative to a pipe connection over which a hose is to be positioned. The holding device has a plurality of holding arms arranged around an axis. The holding arms are connected by a connecting body and each has an internal, radially inwardly directed groove. All grooves are in the same transverse plane of the holding arms and are of the same width as the clip band so that the clip band can be received therein. Preferably, a hose clip in the form of a spring band clip with a clip band having radially outwardly angled clamping jaws is used. A U-shaped clamp, which holds the clamping jaws together when the spring band clip is in an open position, may be connected to the connecting body by a connecting member which permits the clamp to pivot away from the clamping jaws but which prevents the clamp from being separated and thereby becoming lost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Stephan Mann
  • Patent number: 5738359
    Abstract: An expandable band and locking mechanism is used to install and secure a flexible sealing element, such as a rubber seal or gasket, against an internal annular surface, such as in a manhole or pipe. The expandable band is capable of expanding and being locked at various diameters. The expandable band preferably has a plurality of deviations or ribs that provide a plurality of pressure points against the sealing element. The expandable band includes a first locking region, such as an end locking portion of the band, and a second locking region, such as one or more adjustable locking elements or notches in the band. The locking mechanism preferably includes a locking member having a first locking tab for engaging with the end locking portion of the band and a second locking tab for engaging with one of the adjustable locking elements or notches in the band. The locking mechanism further includes a housing for covering the locking member and engaging the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: NPC Acquisition Corp.
    Inventor: William P. Gundy
  • Patent number: 5715579
    Abstract: A spring band clamp is comprised of an annular spring band having a first end portion and a second end portion. Each end portion has a clamping jaw that projects beyond a periphery of the spring band. The first end portion has a tongue extending radially outwardly from a U-shaped incision in the first end portion. An abutment is formed by a radial inner edge of a free end surface of the tongue. The second end portion has a slot extending in a circumferential direction. The first end portion projects through the peripheral slot in the second end portion. The clamping jaws extend substantially tangentially relative to the circumferential direction of the spring band. The spring band exerts a closing spring force, which is directed in the circumferential direction. The closing spring force is greater in an open position of the spring band clamp than in an operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Beicht, Jurgen Gyongyosi, Werner Ruppert, Ralf Spors
  • Patent number: 5706622
    Abstract: A framing system (10) including three-dimensional structural members (12, 14) formed from planar panels (16) having their edges removably secured together by provisions (48) including a slide connector (66) which receives lugs (52) slideably received in and abutting with latches (56). The panels (16) include interconnect ports (22) having integral, concentric tubes (24). The exterior faces (18) of the structural members (12, 14) are abutted together, with the structural members (12, 14) being clamped by a clamping band (28) having a central wall (30) abutting with the tubes (24) and first and second side walls (32, 34) abutting with the free faces (25) of the tubes (24). In the preferred form, the clamping band (28) is split and is removably locatable in the ports (22) by being distortable into a helical shape by flex notches (40, 42) formed in the side walls (32, 34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Inventor: Fredric Lange
  • Patent number: 5706557
    Abstract: A clamp for hoses, pipes and the like which is intended to prevent leakage due to expansion of the clamp by increased internal pressures. The clamp has a clamping band with two ends. When the clamp is installed and in a generally unstressed condition, a projection on one end is spaced from an abutment on the other end. As internal pressure increases, the clamp expands until the projection engages the abutment. Further expansion is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Rasmussen GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Beicht
  • Patent number: 5687457
    Abstract: A clamping band has a metallic band section with a first end, formed into a Y-shaped fork having a pair of fork pieces. A pair of concave sections are formed in each side edge of the band section. and are capable of accommodating the fork pieces. A clamping ear is formed by bending a part of the band section. The clamping ear is provided at a prescribed position at which both end sections of the band section are overlapped when the band section is formed into a loop. An engaging piece is provided in the vicinity of the Y-shaped fork of the band section. A first engagement hole is capable of engaging with the engaging piece. The first engagement hole is provided in the vicinity of the other end of the band section, whereby the band section is formed into the loop when the first engagement hole is engaged with the engaging piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Mihama Seisakusho
    Inventor: Taira Hama
  • Patent number: 5675871
    Abstract: The invention provides a locating device for locating and holding a prestressed hose clamp on a cylindrical hose having a selected radius of curvature. The device has a resilient C-shaped clamp engaging element having opposed free ends defining a gap, the element being generally cylindrical about a first axis and the gap being smaller than an internal diameter of the element so that the clamp can be pushed through the gap and gripped by the element with radial projections on the clamp extending through the gap. A pair of resilient hose engaging elements are attached to the clamp engaging element and spaced axially spaced with the clamp engaging element between the hose engaging elements which are proportioned to apply a load on the hose contained in the device to bias the hose away from the gap and into contact with the clamp at a location diametrically opposite the radial projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: ACD Tridon Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Webb, Kevin M. Cradduck, Craig A. Senovich
  • Patent number: 5669113
    Abstract: The clamp includes an overlapping end portion having a plurality of apertures spaced longitudinally from one another with each aperture having an inward projection. An ear projects outwardly between the apertures and an elongated slot in the overlapping portion. The lapped portion includes a plurality of openings, each having an outwardly projecting hook. The hooks and projections are geometrically shaped to, upon engagement with one another, laterally center the lapped and lapping portions and interlock the portions to one another. The lapped portion includes an outwardly projecting protuberance engageable in the slot of the lapping portion to guide the portions for longitudinal and laterally constrained movement. The ear has parallel sides and lobes projecting outwardly from the sides, forming a purchase for the jaws of a crimping tool, preventing the tool from slipping from the ear. Upon interlocking the hooks and projections, the ear is crimped to secure the clamp about the parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Murray Corporation
    Inventor: Robert F. Fay