Plural Fasteners Having Intermediate Flaccid Connector Patents (Class 24/298)
  • Publication number: 20090119888
    Abstract: A leash device for wireless cellular phone earpieces. There is a first tubular member, composed of a substantially compliant material; a first intermediate coupling member, fixably attached to an exterior surface of the first tubular member; a leash member, coupled to an end of the first intermediate coupling member; a second intermediate coupling member, fixably attached to an end of the leash member, and oppositely disposed from the first intermediate coupling member; and a first coupling member, fixably attached to an end of the second intermediate clasp member, and configured to fasten the device to itself, a users apparel or eyewear. Further, the compliant material of the first tubular member is elastic. The leash member is composed of a flexible material. The first coupling member is configured in a question-mark-like shape, and is composed of a resilient material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Karen E. Carter
  • Patent number: 7523910
    Abstract: An apparatus for the suspension of objects from stable and overhanging locations. A method for the installation and use of such an apparatus is also included. Apparatus is especially useful in the decorative display of lanterns created from pumpkins and other gourds and melons including cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventor: Sean Thomas Moran
  • Patent number: 7516591
    Abstract: A reusable concrete anchor strap includes a strap having a first end, a second end, a middle portion, and an intermediate portion. The first end and the second end are proximate a connector end and the middle portion forms a first loop member proximate an anchor end. The intermediate portion is a first segment between the first end and the middle portion and a second segment between the second end and the middle portion. A securement member secures and interconnects the first segment and the second segment to form a second loop member thereby allowing for reuse of the strap when the first loop member is disconnected to create a second anchor end proximate the second loop member. The first loop member and the second loop member are configured and arranged to engage at least one anchor member of a concrete structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: D B Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Thomas Wolner, Travis P. Betcher
  • Publication number: 20080307613
    Abstract: A pipeline-engageable safety line anchor having a base adapted to an engagement with the curved exterior surface of a pipe. The base may be formed to fit the curve of the pipe or may be flexible and thereby adaptable to follow the curved exterior surface of the pipe. A strap provides an attachment of the base portion in a tensioned engagement around the pipe and with the base. Eyes or other engagement points for a safety line attached to a user provide engagement points for the safety line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: James D. Woods
  • Patent number: 7458238
    Abstract: A device for releasably locking a lever-type load binder in the closed or tightened position includes a length of cable or other suitable flexible material with a loop formed in one end. The cable passes through an opening in an abutment plate, such that the abutment plate can slide along the cable between a pair of spaced stop members fixed to the cable near its free end. When a lever-type load binder is engaged with a load-securing chain, the locking device may be used to lock the lever in the closed position by passing the loop end of the cable through a selected chain link adjacent to the lever, extending the free end of the cable around the load binder lever, and then passing the abutment plate and the tree end of the cable through the loop such that the loop is disposed behind the abutment plate, with the abutment plate preventing the loop from moving toward the free end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventors: Frank M. Stolk, Armando Cardamone
  • Publication number: 20080282515
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein that provide for a tether apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: BOOGINHEAD, LLC
    Inventor: Sari Crevin
  • Patent number: 7401386
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved bib retaining device. The bib retaining device comprises an elongate resilient member having a central portion and opposite end portions, the central portion of the elongate resilient member being formed into a neck engaging portion, the end portions extending outwardly from the neck engaging portion, and a bib retaining member attached to each end portion of the elongate resilient member. A method of using a bib retaining device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: James L. Cannon
  • Publication number: 20080163465
    Abstract: The invention consists of two circular attaching structures and a flexible tether connected between both structures. The invention can be constructed of various materials. One attaching structure, the “Loop” allows any common cigarette lighter to be secured to the invention. It consists of a loop of flexible material that will secure the lighter when inserted. The other attaching structure, the “Band” allows attachment to other objects. The item consists of a band of flexible material with a means to securely attach the opposite ends of the band, facilitating the creation of a loop of variable size that will accommodate many objects. The Loop is also constructed of a flexible material that allows a secure attachment to an object. The flexible tether can be of various lengths and materials that may stretch and/or twist. The tether connects the small loop with the lighter inserted, to the band that is attached to an object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventors: Aimee Janine Burgess, John Nelson Burgess
  • Publication number: 20080148533
    Abstract: A litter strap that is easily adjustable to any length while simultaneously secure under tension includes an elongate strap extending between first and second parts of a two-piece buckle. The strap may be threaded through one of the buckle parts and manually slidable therethrough for adjusting a length of the litter strap assembly. A flexible pinch guard may be affixed to the strap so that the pinch guard substantially overlaps the first buckle part when the buckle parts are decoupled and may be wider than the strap and sized to substantially overlap the first and second buckle parts when the buckle parts are coupled. A keeper loop may encircle a middle portion of the strap and be slidable therealong and a pull tab may extend from the keeper loop to facilitate adjusting a position of the keeper loop along the middle portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: Skedco, Inc.
    Inventor: Carston R. Calkin
  • Publication number: 20080083096
    Abstract: The present invention is an organizer device having a primary back strap 10, the primary back strap 10 having a first end, a second end and a middle portion. The first end having a first buckle portion 32 and a means for suspending the back strap 20, the second end having a second buckle portion 28, the middle portion having at least one attachment location with an appended buckle portion 38 interposed between the first and second ends; and wherein the second end is provided to receive the first end of a second primary back strap. The device further has at least one removable cinch strap device 40 having a first end and a second end, the first end having two buckle portions 38, 39, a first buckle portion 39 for removable attachment to the attachment location with an appended buckle 38 on the primary back strap 10 and a second buckle portion 39 to attach to the buckle portion at the second end of the cinch strap 40 to form a loop for holding a coil of cable 100, a power tool box or other material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Charles Ervin Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7346962
    Abstract: A suspension or staying system uses a length of wire or cable with a hook or plain bead secured to one end. The hook may be secured directly or indirectly to a structure, or pass around a fixed structure such as a beam, purlin or girder, or something fixed thereto, such as a clip, hook or eye, and hooked to the length of wire to form a loop. The hook may include an enlarged beaded end which may be used directly with some fasteners or clamps, or with a clip to form a loop. The clip may be used with the plain beaded end or a hooked beaded end. The enlarged bead of either enables the length of wire to be caught by somewhat smaller holes in a variety of structural fasteners. The other or free end of the wire or cable is extended through a jam cleat and around an object to be suspended or stayed, and then back through the jam cleat to form a tightenable, adjustable loop simply by pulling on the free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: ERICO International Corporation
    Inventors: Geert van Gijsel, Peter Naaijkens, Raymond S. Laughlin
  • Patent number: 7343649
    Abstract: A strap having fasteners for securing the handle of a grease gun in the closed position has a first loop for wrapping around the barrel of a grease gun and a second loop for wrapping around the grease gun handle in the flexed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Carl Walters, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7337501
    Abstract: The invention includes a belt clip for mounting objects to a user's belt. The belt clip has a resilient U-shaped member portion and a hollow hanger member. The resilient U-shaped member portion having an upper end and a lower end with a U-bend portion at the upper end and parallel inner and outer walls extending downwardly from the U-bend. A gap is defined between the inner and outer walls for slidably engaging a belt. The hollow hanger member portion protrudes outwardly from the outer wall of the U-shaped member portion and has a generally downwardly facing wall with an aperture extending therethrough. The aperture provides a means for mounting objects to the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Vermillion
  • Publication number: 20080040898
    Abstract: A device for releasably locking a lever-type load binder in the closed or tightened position includes a length of cable or other suitable flexible material with a loop formed in one end. The cable passes through an opening; in an abutment plate, such that the abutment plate can slide along the cable between a pair of spaced stop members fixed to the cable near its free end. When a lever-type load binder is engaged with a load-securing chain, the locking device may be used to lock the lever in the closed position by passing the loop end of the cable through a selected chain link adjacent to the lever, extending the free end of the cable around the load binder lever, and then passing the abutment plate and the tree end of the cable through the loop such that the loop is disposed behind the abutment plate, with the abutment plate preventing the loop from moving toward the free end of the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Frank M. Stolk, Armando Cardamone
  • Patent number: 7320156
    Abstract: A bib holder is provided that is useful for securing a bib in place. In one embodiment, the bib holder includes a strap and at least one fastener that is useful for retaining the bib, in addition to at least one compartment that is capable of storing an item of suitable size and weight. The compartment can be attached to the strap, or be a part of the fastener. In various embodiments, at least a portion of the surface of the compartment is reflective. Additionally, the compartment of the bib holder can optionally include indicia thereon. In certain embodiments of the invention, moreover, the compartment includes a plurality of sub-compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventor: Emily Slayton
  • Publication number: 20070294864
    Abstract: A connecting clip for connecting two members to each other at apertures through the two members. The connecting clip includes a first section connected to a second section by a living hinge. The first section includes a general ring shaped portion forming a hole, a first stationary projection extending away from the general ring shaped portion at a rear side of the general ring shaped portion, and a movably second projection connected to the general ring shaped portion by another living hinge. The second projection is movable to a deployed position extending out of the hole with an end of the second projection extending in a direction different from the first projection. The second section includes a pushing portion adapted to push against the second projection when the second section is moved from an open position to a closed position to thereby move the second projection to the deployed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: Andrew Lawrence Franzone
  • Publication number: 20070277352
    Abstract: An ornamental leash for linking a portable object to a user or auxiliary structure where the leash is a flexible, elongate member having a first end including a first fastener, a second end including a second fastener and a body portion, wherein the first fastener can be manipulated to link to one of the second fastener, the portable object, the user or the auxiliary structure, and the second fastener can be manipulated to link to one of the first fastener, the portable object, the user or the auxiliary structure. A plurality of hollow bodies are penetrated by the elongate member to form an ornamental appearance. A variety of fasteners can be used, and include both hooks and loops. Embodiments of the invention further include a lanyard adapted to removably engage the portable object at one end and the ornamental leash at an opposite end. The lanyard may also include a plurality of hollow bodies between the two ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Mary Maron, Mary Bennett
  • Patent number: 7275396
    Abstract: An earring support device constructed of a single length of flexible metal wire or plastic line bent back upon itself at both ends and clasped or otherwise fasted so as to form a large loop at one end and one or more smaller loops at the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Karen Hinz MacHock
  • Publication number: 20070220717
    Abstract: A tether apparatus is disclosed for coupling a sheet material to an object. The tether comprises a clip having a first jaw member and a second jaw member for grasping the sheet material. A strap extends between a first end and a second end. The first end of the strap is secured to the clip. The second end of the strap defines a closed loop. A continuous cord extends through the closed loop of the strap for encircling the object and enabling the clip to be inserted within the continuous cord for securing the continuous cord to the object. A keeper slidably engages the continuous cord for adjusting the length of the continuous cord by the position of the keeper on the continuous cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: John K. Brinson
  • Patent number: 7178205
    Abstract: A fastener first member connects to a second member by a flexible tether. A third member having multiple deflectable wings slides onto the second member. A first member male pin extends through a third member aperture to engage second member biasing elements, joining the first, second and third members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventors: Rosalind A Nessel, Steven M Benedetti, Jeff A Slobodecki
  • Patent number: 7171731
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tie-down strap that may be used more or less universally for securing cargo of various kinds under varying conditions, and further includes a self-organizing mechanism that is simple, practical, and easy to use for storage and re-use of the tie-down strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Paul R. Borcherding
  • Patent number: 7103943
    Abstract: A multi use utility strap has an elongated first strap member. The first strap member has a first end and a second end. The first end is folded over and coupled to a body section of the elongated strap to form a first loop. The second end is folded over and coupled to the body section to form a second loop. A second strap member having a first end and a second end is provided wherein the first end is coupled to the first strap member. A first pair of D rings is positioned in the second loop. A third strap member is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end of the third strap is folded over and coupled to a body section of the third strap member to form a third strap member loop. A connector is provided for coupling the second strap member to the third strap member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Lambert
  • Patent number: 7089631
    Abstract: A mounting hook for a wire array mountable on a seat frame has a first portion having a seating member running longitudinally along the first portion, a second portion having a channel running across the top of the hook and outboard of the hooking surface, and a hooking member running transversely to the channel and parallel to the seating member. The first, second and third portions define a hooking surface. A method of seat assembly consists of a wire array connecting to mounting hooks by running a mounting wire through the wire seating member of the mounting hook. Such wire is then bent to a transverse angle. After such wire is bent, the mounting hook is slid to the bent area. The bent area is then placed into the channel. The wire array is then ready for mounting on the seat frame through the use of the hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventors: Pierrot Catry, Jo Pattyn
  • Patent number: 7051407
    Abstract: A brassiere strap clasp is used to hold either a cloth strap or a bead strap. The brassiere strap clasp has a body and a clamp. The clamp is pivotally attached to the body and has multiple teeth that extend toward the body. The cloth straps and the bead straps can pass through the brassiere strap clasp and are held by the teeth on the clamp. Also, the brassiere strap clasp can be used to adjust the length of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Yu-Li Hsu
  • Patent number: 7020935
    Abstract: A multiple item carrying device permitting a plurality of items to be conveniently and safely carried, used and retrieved. The carrying device preferably includes an adjustable main strap, a snap-fit closure along the length thereof, a mechanism at one end of the main strap to tether the device to a variety of locations, and a plurality of secondary straps at the other end for holding separate holders to which the items to be carried are secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventors: Kristofor R. Behn, Bryan P. Principe
  • Patent number: 6944918
    Abstract: A clip is provided for use on a loose-leaf binder having a spine with front and back covers and a plurality of rings for holding paper in the binder. The clip includes a U-shaped member having a base and outer legs adapted to engage outer surfaces of the binder covers, and a pair of inner legs extending from the base and being spaced from the outer legs so as to be adapted to engage the inner surfaces of the binder covers. A strap has a first end connected to the base of the U-shaped member and a second end with a loop adapted to be attached to the top binder ring to prevent the clip from becoming lost when detached from the binder. The clip has a small profile, with a width of approximately ¼ inch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Accu-Mold Corp.
    Inventors: Eric E. Woolson, Gregory E. Peterson, Roger A. Hargens
  • Patent number: 6899256
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: William R. Richter
  • Patent number: 6880208
    Abstract: A tether based connector for locating, identifying, inventorying, controlling and helping to ensure the retrieval of one or more items packaged within a container loaded with potentially obscuring packaging materials. The connector is formed from a stratified body having a die-cut upper sheet layer to form one or more extractable tethers, each of which terminates at a fastener at one end for releasably fastening to an item, and at an easily located terminus at the other end. The terminus may be formed as an anchorment for anchoring to the container. A single anchorment may be adapted to serve a plurality of tethers for fastening to a plurality of items. A badge carrying item identifying information can be associated with a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: James Cahill
  • Patent number: 6868589
    Abstract: A cord securement apparatus comprises an elongate elastic band having a hook integral with one end of the band, and an eyelet integral with the other end of the band. The eyelet is slidingly engaged medially with the band thereby forming a loop at the other end of the band. The loop may be tightened about an electrical cord and the band may be wound about the electrical cord and its appliance in order to secure the electrical cord in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Lynn Eric Borne
  • Patent number: 6817069
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a strap to a pair of eyeglasses is disclosed which may include first and second connection devices and first and second springs. Each connection device may have a loop, a first portion, and a second portion. Each loop may be used to attach the respective connection device to a temple leg of a pair of eyeglasses. Each loop may be separate and distinct from the strap. A method is disclosed comprising bending a first portion of the first connection device from an original state so that the first portion of the first connection device can fit into the first spring. The method may also include inserting the first connection device into the first spring, and bending the first portion of the first connection device back to the original state of the first portion so that the first connection device becomes locked onto the first spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: David M. Tillstrom
  • Publication number: 20040083584
    Abstract: A plant support hook having an elongated shaft with a U-shaped hook supported at one end of the and forming a resilient interlock with the shaft to engage a string-like support for the U-shaped hook and a J-shaped hook on the other end of the shaft for supporting a branch of the plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Ester Mastronardi
  • Publication number: 20040083585
    Abstract: A luggage slip strap includes a flexible extended element having a long axis and first and second ends, and a sleeve affixed to the flexible extended element, the sleeve defining a cavity having an axis generally perpendicular to the long axis of the flexible extended member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: David Alpert
  • Patent number: 6715186
    Abstract: A charm chain is comprised of an ornamental chain in a selected shape, multiple snaps and a lining band, snaps being respectively fixed to both ends of the ornamental chain and retain the lining band at the bottom of the ornamental chain for the charm chain to be adapted to a string bikini, a bra, a strap or any other accessories for ornamental purpose and safe use since the ornamental chain is prevented from directly contacting one's skin by means of the: lining band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Pei-Hui Huang
  • Patent number: 6701582
    Abstract: This invention relates to a trouser leg retaining device which is used for maintaining one's trouser legs in the proper position in relation to one's shoes. This invention includes an elongated elastic strap with a snap fastener device at one end and either a locking clip or an O-ring at the opposite end. The snap fastens onto one's trouser leg while the O-ring fastens onto one's shoe. The elastic strap has an adjuster positioned on it to adjust the length of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Vernon L. Milburn
  • Patent number: 6662417
    Abstract: A method of constructing a swivel hook. The method comprises the steps of: forming a hook body by way of a stamping process; forming a swivel connector by means of a forging process; placing a first washer having a rectangular shaped right angled bore over a rectangular stem on the hook body; inserting the rectangular stem of the hook body through a circular bore in a first end of the swivel connector; placing a second washer having a generally rectangular shaped right angled bore over the rectangular stem of the hook body and into abutment with the swivel connector such that the end of the stem extends through the second washer; and, thereafter, peening the tip of the rectangular stem extending through the second washer to secure the second washer in place over the rectangular stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Haun Drop Forge Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keith A. Smith, Steve B. Levay, John Dunsby
  • Publication number: 20030221296
    Abstract: A suspension or staying system uses a length of wire or cable with a hook or plain bead secured to one end. The hook may be secured directly or indirectly to a structure, or pass around a fixed structure such as a beam, purlin or girder, or something fixed thereto, such as a clip, hook or eye, and hooked to the length of wire to form a loop. The hook may include an enlarged beaded end which may be used directly with some fasteners or clamps, or with a clip to form a loop. The clip may be used with the plain beaded end or a hooked beaded end. The enlarged bead of either enables the length of wire to be caught by somewhat smaller holes in a variety of structural fasteners. The other or free end of the wire or cable is extended through a jam cleat and around an object to be suspended or stayed, and then back through the jam cleat to form a tightenable, adjustable loop simply by pulling on the free end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Geert van Gijsel, Peter Naaijkens, Raymond S. Laughlin
  • Publication number: 20030217442
    Abstract: A remote control locating apparatus 10 is provided which includes a coupling band 12 for couplingly engaging the remote control 14 The coupling band 12 is secured to a flexibly extending elongated member 16 at one end thereof A grasping member 24 for graspingly engaging a desired predetermined readily identifiable object is coupled to the other end of the flexibly extending elongated member 16 As a result the grasping member 24 can be attached to a predetermined object so that the remote control 14 can be secured thereto and readily located.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Leona Peterson
  • Patent number: 6648381
    Abstract: A trunk tie-down has a catch that releasably couples with a strike of a vehicle lock mechanism, and a latch connected with the catch, that releasably couples with an opposing catch of the vehicle lock mechanism. The latch may have a first latch portion and an opposing second latch portion, each being generally U-shaped with a bight and a pair of legs. The legs of the first and the second latch portions extend toward each other and are coupled together. The bight of the first latch portion may also lie in a first reference plane while the bight of the second latch portion lies in a second reference plane. The first and the second reference planes may be perpendicular. Each of the first and the second latch portion bights may have a dimension of thickness with the second latch portion bight being thicker than the first latch portion bight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Charles J. Holton, James E. Bartek
  • Patent number: 6637077
    Abstract: An adjustable strap is provided having two loops of different lengths at each end, and a tensioning mechanism on the strap for adjusting the length and tension of the overall strap. S-hooks are placed on each of the short loops with an open but closable receiving hook positioned to hook the longer loop when the latter is routed back to the short loop. For dock and boat cleats having two legs and an opening, the long loop is adapted such that it can loop the cleat generally and then have the loop end threaded through the cleat on return to the short loop where it is hooked. A closed-biased member on the S-hook can be manipulated to allow later detachment. The short and long loops are configured to lie in parallel planes such that the strap may be used in a single loop configuration and have a flat side profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Douglas H Doty
  • Patent number: 6611995
    Abstract: A corner mount packaging assembly for retail display of a tie-down assembly and for protection of a right angle edge of a load secured by the tie-down assembly. The packaging assembly includes an L-shaped frame with an inner surface adapted for placement over a right angle edge of the load, and an outer surface having guide members extending along side edges of the frame. The tie down assembly is removably attached to the inner surface of the frame, and includes a strap, hook type fasteners on the strap ends, and a tensioning mechanism for imparting a tension to the strap. The guide members form a channel on the outer surface for receiving the strap to prevent the strap from sliding off the frame, and the rigid L-shaped frame dissipates the force of the strap over a wider portion of the load, thus preventing damage thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: USA Products
    Inventors: Stephen D. Jackson, Raymond S. Brown
  • Patent number: 6606768
    Abstract: A strap device is provided for holding objects held by infants, for preventing the object from falling to the ground if released by the infant. The strap device includes a flexible strap having a first end with a first securing means, a second end with a second securing means, a first attachment means mounted on the flexible strap near the first end, and a second attachment means mounted on the flexible strap near the second end. The attachment means each can be releasably secured to a position on the flexible strap, forming a primary loop for securing the flexible strap to the object or to a support structure. The first securing means preferably is an elastic loop, which can attach the object to the strap device regardless of the object's shape and dimensions, while the second securing means attaches to a support near the infant for his use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventors: Sebastien Henry, Renee Buisson Pultar
  • Patent number: 6598270
    Abstract: An equipment mounting strap is disclosed for securing equipment in a rack having side frames. The equipment mounting strap includes two angled brackets, each bracket including a first leg defining a slot for receiving a strap and a second leg having means for fastening the angled bracket to one of the side frames of the rack, a bumper mounted on each angled bracket adjacent the slot, and a composite strap having one end fixedly fastened through the slot of one of the angled brackets and the other end detachably fastened through the slot of the other of the angled brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Ortronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Lars R. Larsen, Stewart A. Levesque, Lylette Schumacher
  • Publication number: 20030106187
    Abstract: A corner mount packaging assembly for retail display of a tie-down assembly and for protection of a right angle edge of a load secured by the tie-down assembly. The packaging assembly includes an L-shaped frame with an inner surface adapted for placement over a right angle edge of the load, and an outer surface having guide members extending along side edges of the frame. The tie down assembly is removably attached to the inner surface of the frame, and includes a strap, hook type fasteners on the strap ends, and a tensioning mechanism for imparting a tension to the strap. The guide members form a channel on the outer surface for receiving the strap to prevent the strap from sliding off the frame, and the rigid L-shaped frame dissipates the force of the strap over a wider portion of the load, thus preventing damage thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen D. Jackson, Raymond S. Brown
  • Patent number: 6523227
    Abstract: A shoulder mounted cord retaining clip including a shoulder pad portion positionable on a shoulder of a user. The shoulder pad portion has a forward end and a rearward end. A forward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the forward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance. A rearward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the rearward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Lance Goodall
  • Patent number: 6505387
    Abstract: A flexible fastener having a body formed from tightly coiled wire, with a head affixed to one end of the body, the other end being attached to a first structure, which may be a component of a computer system. The fastener functions by maintaining the position of a first structure adjacent to a second structure, which is provided with a slotted flange. The head end of the fastener is lifted and allowed to fall back such that it drops into the slot in the flange, with the head on the side opposite from the first structure, thus maintaining the correct alignment. The fastener may be threaded into a threaded aperture in the first structure, as a means of effecting the attachment to the first structure. The length of the fastener may be adjusted for optimum alignment by threading the fastener to a desired depth in the aperture. A locknut is provided, to lock the fastener to maintain a desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Cray Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander I. Yatskov, Thomas A. Auciello, Thomas F. Zimmerman, Douglas Patrick Kelley
  • Patent number: 6490767
    Abstract: A bungee cord with hookless ends includes an elastic body, a first attachment end, and a second attachment end. In a first preferred embodiment, the first and second attachment ends are spade attachment ends. Each spade attachment end includes a lock body, spade end and at least one lock slot. The spade end must be twisted to be inserted into the lock slot. The spade end is then twisted back to its original orientation to lock thereof in the lock slot. In a second embodiment, the first attachment end is a spade attachment end and the second attachment end is a tongue attachment end. The tongue attachment end includes a tongue body, a tongue hole, and a tongue extension. To lock the tongue attachment end, the tongue extension is inserted through a hole in an item until the spade contoured portion prevents further insertion. The tongue extension is then inserted through the tongue hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Tommy Strap, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Haiduk
  • Publication number: 20020178550
    Abstract: A shoulder mounted cord retaining clip including a shoulder pad portion positionable on a shoulder of a user. The shoulder pad portion has a forward end and a rearward end. A forward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the forward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance. A rearward length of line adjustably extends outwardly of the rearward end of the shoulder pad portion for attaching to a segment of the cord of the electrical appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Lance Goodall
  • Patent number: 6434800
    Abstract: An improved golf club cover retaining device to secure golf club head covers to a golf bag which includes a golf bag securing mechanism circumferentially positioned and affixed to the generally upper portion of the golf bag, a securing mechanism affixation means attaching opposite ends of the securing mechanism for removably attaching the device to the golf bag; at least one generally elongate golf club retainer cord having a proximal end zone, a distal end zone, and a central zone extending between the proximal and distal end zones; a double swivel inter-connector means on the proximal end zone of the cord for securing the cord to the golf bag securing mechanism in movable relation thereto so that the inter-connector means and the cord are able to travel circumferentially around the golfbag; and a golf club cover connector means on the distal end zones of the cord for removable attachment of the head covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Carolyn J. James, Sherri J. Goodall
  • Publication number: 20020100147
    Abstract: An equipment mounting strap is disclosed for securing equipment in a rack having side frames. The equipment mounting strap includes two angled brackets, each bracket including a first leg defining a slot for receiving a strap and a second leg having means for fastening the angled bracket to one of the side frames of the rack, a bumper mounted on each angled bracket adjacent the slot, and a composite strap having one end fixedly fastened through the slot of one of the angled brackets and the other end detachably fastened through the slot of the other of the angled brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Lars R. Larsen, Stewart A. Levesque, Lylette Schumacher
  • Patent number: 6425167
    Abstract: A clothing accessory clip includes a plurality of elongate cords, each attached at one end to a central support, and each having its free end attached to a fastening device. According to the presently preferred embodiment, one of the fastening devices is a hook for attaching to the ring of a jacket and the other fastening devices are spring biased clips for attaching to a neck gator, goggles, a hat, and a pair of gloves or mittens. The cords are preferably made of a braided cord material and the central support is preferably plastic. The hook is preferably a lanyard hook and the spring biased clips are preferably “alligator” type clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventors: Anthony S. Barbarite, Carolyn M. Barbarite