Circular Work Engageable Patents (Class 24/339)
  • Patent number: 6361006
    Abstract: A retaining means for evaporative cooler pads comprising a clip wherein the clip is resiliently deformable to enable fitment between a pair of evaporative cooler pads and wherein the evaporative cooler pads are retained in position upon release of the deforming force from the clip. The clip provides support and adjustment to evaporative pads in a single component which is easily installed and adjusted. The clips are always retained on a post inside the cooler, and thereby cannot be lost while servicing the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: F. F. Seeley Nominess Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Allan Kenneth Wallace
  • Publication number: 20010044990
    Abstract: A reclosable fastener assembly includes first and second elongated closure elements that are engageable to form a seal. A slider is slidable relative to the closure elements between an open position and a closed position and is adapted (i) to engage the closure elements to one another when moved across the closure elements toward the closed position and (ii) to disengage the closure elements from one another when moved across the closure elements toward the open position. The slider carries a first partial indicator. A second partial indicator is located relative to the closure elements so as to complement the first partial indicator to form a visual indicator when the slider is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 1999
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: ROBERT TURVEY, DOUGLAS SOLLER, JEFFREY CHRISTIANSON, DOUGLAS GUNDLACH
  • Patent number: 6298525
    Abstract: A flexible double clip for use in creating arrays of generally cylindrical objects is disclosed, the clip consisting of flexible and resilient materials, the clip having sufficient flexibility to allow individual cylindrical objects, by expansion and twisting of the clip, to rotate in relation to each other about the axis of the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Zender Margo
  • Patent number: 6224025
    Abstract: An arcuate molded flexible plastic pipe saddle for supporting an insulated pipe secured to a surface having a pair of flexible hinge-like joints molded integrally therewith for accommodating insulated pipes of varying overall diameters, and having stiffening ribs molded similarly for strengthening the saddle under load, and means molded integrally with the saddle at the external central underside thereof for attachment of the saddle to a support means. Typical support means may be a U-shaped pipe-supporting member, such as a clevis hanger, for use with a clip-in fixture or a support channel for use with a drop-in twist-and-lock fixture for holding the saddle and adjustable means for securing said U-shaped pipe-supporting member to an overhead surface. The support channel may be used for overhead or underfoot surfaces. For vertical surfaces, a hanging J-shaped wall support member in conjunction with the clip-in version is indicated. Methods of installation are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Luis Jullian Alvarez
  • Patent number: 6190249
    Abstract: A weasand clip used to close the weasand (oesophagus) of slaughtered animals has a leading edge with a sharply configured knife edge for breaking the sinews and membranes along the exterior length of the weasand in a single stroke of the rodder used to push the closed clip along the weasand to a sealed position protecting against leakage of ingesta into the weasand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Ralph K. Karubian
  • Patent number: 6175082
    Abstract: A device for controlling the movement of an electrical cord which connects a computer mouse to a computer. The device is made of a shackle made of a partially cylindrical body having flared lips which extend along the shackle body and a mounting structure attached to the shackle. The device shackle attaches to a mouse cord and the device mounting structure is attachable to stationary objects such as mouse pads or desk tops. The device limits the movement of a computer mouse cord to a length necessary to operate a computer mouse while restraining the remaining mouse cord length by allowing the length of mouse cord between the mouse and the shackle to be moved while the length of cord between the shackle and the computer is held stationary by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventors: Robert C. Klinger, Troy E. Bergstrom
  • Patent number: 6164605
    Abstract: A band clamp for capturing a tubular member, e.g., brake line of a motor vehicle, is presented, wherein the band clamp is adapted to be mounted around an annular object, e.g., an axle assembly of the motor vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp comprises an open-ended substantially annular band having first and second opposed primary interlockable members disposed at the open ends thereof. The clamp further includes first and second cooperating, opposed secondary interlockable members disposed within the annular band between the open ends. The first and second secondary interlockable members provide complementary engaging surfaces extending a predetermined distance from the annular band for securing the tubular member to the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald A. Drake, Nickolas J Ristich
  • Patent number: 6158095
    Abstract: A clip for retaining power or extension cords for transport and to prevent damage to the cord. The cord has two sleeves that are created when an upper and a lower member are fastened together or formed in a body member. One sleeve is closed and the other has an opening for the insertion of a power cord. A lever is attached at the top of the clip to aid in the opening of the open end of the clip for the insertion of a cord. Within the closed sleeve is a retaining mechanism that aids in the retention and positioning of a power cord. Integrally molded within the open sleeve may be ribs that increase the frictional engagement between the clip and the cord. The clip can be constructed in one or two pieces and can be used with a variety of different tools and applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Jerry Lassiter
  • Patent number: 6158700
    Abstract: A supporting frame of light string includes a pair of arch bars spaced from each other and a plurality of cross bars extending between the arch bars to fix the arch bars together. A light string is attached to the bars by means of wire clips and lamp clips. Each wire clip includes a resilient C-shaped member through which the wires extend. The wire clip defines a side opening for forcibly fitting the wire clip over one of the bars thereby securely attaching the wires to the bar. Preferably, an axially-extending groove is defined in the wire clip for accommodating the wires. Each lamp clip includes a resilient C-shaped member defining an axially-extending opening for fitting the lamp clip over one of the bars. An axially-extending groove is defined in a side wall of the lamp clip for accommodating a first section of the wires and a circumferentially-extending slit is defined in the side wall of the wire clip through which a second section of the wires extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Whiter Shieh
  • Patent number: 6148488
    Abstract: A clip for the purpose of fastening plastic, tarpaulins, fabric or other flexible-sheet goods to any kind of structure, appurtenance to a structure or vehicle or other construct or object, where the framing of such structure, appurtenance, or object consists of pipe, rod, or other tubular component which is most commonly round in cross-section and of metal or plastic, but other configurations and compositions are also possible. The clip allows a firm and solid connection of the flexible-sheet goods to the tubular components, in a manner which does not damage the flexible-sheet goods, and is removable and reusable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Rick Alan Gristock
  • Patent number: 6141838
    Abstract: A cosmetic accessory clasp includes two or more clips for holding longitudinally extending articles. For example, the clasp accommodates both a lipstick barrel and a lip liner pencil. The clasp includes two or more open clips, such as an open clip having attached at the closed portion thereof a smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The larger lipstick barrel is inserted by the spring action of the larger clip and the lip liner pencil is insertable in the smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The clasp may hold other related longitudinally extending articles, such as eyebrow pencils and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Gary Cooper
  • Patent number: 6128843
    Abstract: A universal two-piece label holder system for hooks of various sizes and configurations, including single and double rod or U-shaped loop hooks, comprises a versatile ring-shaped saddle having a plurality of peripherally spaced clasps of different dimensions, at least one of which will grippingly engage a single rod hook, with an adjacent clasp slidingly engaging the second rod of a double rod or loop hook at a selected position along the length of the hook. An elongated plastic tag or overlay, preferably having a label holder at its distal end, is adapted to overlie the hook, with side edge portions of the tag engaged by flanges on the saddle and a selected one of a plurality of spaced openings along the intermediate portion of the tag engaged over a projection on the saddle to thereby limit movement of the tag relative to the saddle both laterally and longitudinally and to arcuately flex the tag to rigidify the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Fast Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: John Gebka
  • Patent number: 6105218
    Abstract: A fastener comprising first and second separable members, for engaging an elongate element. Each member includes first and second complementary shaped partial-cylindrical portions formed on a facing side thereof. The first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the first member have outside dimensions that are complementarily dimensioned with respect to the inside dimensions of the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the second member, so that the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the first member selectively engage and nest within the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the second member when the facing side of the first and second members are positioned towards each other. The elongate element is engaged between the first and second members of the fastener by an engagement area formed when one of the first and second partial-cylindrical portions are nested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: George Reekie
  • Patent number: 6096009
    Abstract: Locking device that is mounted on an endoscope or the like for selectively securing the position of a guide wire and/or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like. The locking device preferably includes a side wall with an opening therein for receiving the proximal end of a guide wire or catheter. The opening is preferably J-shaped or boot shaped, and has an entry end and a locking end. Once a guide wire or catheter is in a desired position within a body cavity, the portion of the guide wire or catheter that extends outside of the endoscope or the like may be moved into the opening. More particularly, a portion of the guide wire or catheter may be inserted by an operator through the entry end of the opening and into the locking end, wherein the locking end frictionally secures the position of the guide wire or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Jim Windheuser, Jim Yearick, Oscar Carrillo, Gary McAlister, John Holmes, Paul Norton
  • Patent number: 6061880
    Abstract: A fastener is provided for securing one or more water supply lines to a pipe, such as a drain or vent pipe. The fastener includes a first resilient clamping element for engaging the pipe and a second resilient clamping element for engaging the water line. The second resilient clamping elements may be unitary with the first resilient clamping elements or selectively connected together by means of a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Plastic Productions A LLC
    Inventor: Ralph B. Senninger
  • Patent number: 6044530
    Abstract: A clip and collected assembly thereof are provided and including a method of forming the clip and clip assembly. The clip is formed with at least one slot that has at least one projection for keeping a resilient cord press fit in the slot therein against forces tending to shift it out therefrom. Preferably, two parallel slots are provided for receiving two cords therein with there being two opposing projections extending into the slot opening from either side of the slot. The slot projections provide an attendant manufacturing benefit as the punches of the die press apparatus that punch slugs from the blank fed thereto will not suffer from slug pulling problems because of the presence of corresponding projections extending into the die cavity openings from either side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Stanley Fastening Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: David Room, Matthew Graszer, Paul Lackler
  • Patent number: 5988575
    Abstract: The Aerosol Spray Can Tool is a device that holds and stores certain accessories and vital parts of the common aerosol spray can. It is a flexible bracelet that snaps around the can and it has holes thru it, slots, clips and a suitcase. The holes hold the spray straw, the slots hold the spray straw and the clip holds the spray straw. The suitcase molded or machined with the bracelet stores the spray nozzle. A very long straw is laced thru two or more holes to store the long straw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph John Lesko
  • Patent number: 5979023
    Abstract: A connecting element (1) is provided for attaching drink crates (10), packing pockets or other containers to each other or to a bicycle luggage carrier (12) or similar mounting rod (11). In order to connect two objects securely and firmly to each other for transport using a connecting element (1) of this type, and yet also when necessary to be able to detach them again easily, the hook-shaped connecting element (1) is constructed to have its essentially S-shaped and opposingly directed hook parts (2, 3) as flat hooks having a flat longitudinal extension transverse to the hook plane, wherein the hook parts (2, 3) grip around the respectively fastened object (10) in a form-fit manner shaped to a securing region on the object, and wherein a securing device is provided which closes the opening of the hook parts to a great extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Uwe Nutto
  • Patent number: 5979110
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant clip, and more particularly to a plant clip having a pair of mutually opposed arcuate plates, a band transversely and securely connected with each one of the arcuate plates, two reinforced ribs respectively formed on distal ends of the band and a pair of side wings integrally and respectively formed on distal ends of the respective reinforced ribs. A space is defined between an outer periphery of the arcuate plate and an inner face of the side wing. Therefore, a peduncle of a plant and a stick for providing support to the peduncle are able to be securely held by the plant clip via a space between the two arcuate plates and the space between the outer periphery of the arcuate plate and the inner face of the side wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Yu-Lin Tai
  • Patent number: 5957352
    Abstract: A tool holding device designed to be attached to a wheelbarrow contains at least two identical supports attachable to side of a body of a wheelbarrow, each of the supports containing at least one retaining cavity in the form of a U, with interior dimensions larger than the width of the handle of a tool to be held, and which opening is of a width less than the diameter of the handle so that the introduction of the handle into the cavity is achieved by forcing the distortion of a part of the support at the level of the opening, the bottom of the cavity containing an elastic member for repelling the handle towards the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Gares
  • Patent number: 5954308
    Abstract: A clamp for securing a vertically disposed elongated antenna to the horizontal edge of a volleyball net has a base wall and an oppositely disposed spaced clamping wall secured together at adjacent edges by a U-shaped live hinged portion. The clamping wall extends in a tapered direction towards the base wall to define a narrowed net receiving access lot opposite to the live hinge portion. A vertically disposed shoulder extends outwardly from an outer surface of the base wall, and a vertical bore is located in the shoulder to receive an end of an elongated antenna. The clamp members are comprised of a single piece of plastic material. An elongated lift member is on an elongated horizontal free edge of the clamping wall and extends outwardly from the access slot. A plurality of serrations are formed on an inner surface of the base wall opposite to the clamping wall. The shoulder on said base wall has a vertical length greater than the vertical height of the base wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: American Sports International, LTD
    Inventors: Mark R. Lane, Neal C. Squibb, Leslie M. Arp
  • Patent number: 5937488
    Abstract: A unitary clamp is provided for securing a brakeline to the axle of a vehicle. The clamp includes a first clamping structure that clamps around the axle and a second clamping structure that clamps around the brakeline. Both clamping structures are independently operated so that the clamp can first be secured to the brakeline and thereafter to the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Tyton Hellerman Corporation
    Inventor: Gerard G Geiger
  • Patent number: 5896720
    Abstract: A clip bar for supporting, fixing or stabilizing air hoses, water hoses, electrical cords, safety ropes, cables, etc. on a shingled or unshingled, pitched roof of a building or house. The clip bar has a substantially flat element with a pair of spaced, U-shaped spring clips attached thereto. One or more of the clip bars can be secured to the roof by a nail or nails and support, fix or stabilize hoses, cords, ropes and/or cables thereto, thus, preventing these elements and any attachments thereto from sliding down and off the roof as well as preventing them from interfering with workers or roofers working on the pitched or inclined roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: William R Bond
  • Patent number: 5884372
    Abstract: A clip, for example attachable to both a refreshment tube of a reservoir-based hydration system and to, for example, an article of clothing. The tube clip includes a tube attachment section to attach the tube clip to the refreshment tube, and a clip section and locking arm to releasably attach the tube clip to the article of clothing. A person engaged in an activity may thus affix the refreshment tube to a location on clothing by engaging the locking area while a portion of the clothing fabric is within a clipping area. The location of attachment on clothing can be selected to provide easy, quick, or "no-hands" access to the refreshment tube. The clip may be formed from molded plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: National Molding Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Anscher, Gary Fraze
  • Patent number: 5836055
    Abstract: A cosmetic accessory clasp includes two or more clips for holding longitudinally extending articles. For example, the clasp accommodates both a lipstick barrel and a lip liner pencil. The clasp includes two or more open clips, such as an open clip having attached at the closed portion thereof a smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The larger lipstick barrel is inserted by the spring action of the larger clip and the lip liner pencil is insertable in the smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The clasp may hold other related longitudinally extending articles, such as eyebrow pencils and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Gary Cooper
  • Patent number: 5782236
    Abstract: A retaining clamp device holds a tubular air fitting to an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy, e.g., disposed on the neck of the patient. A C-shaped clamp member is formed of a resilient semi-rigid plastic and has an inside diameter that fits snugly over the air fitting, with one or more legs connected to the C-shaped clamp member. The legs have slots at their free ends to fasten the clamp member to said to the flange of the endotracheal tube assembly, e.g., using the Velcro strips that hold the flange to a neck collar. The legs can include left and right leg members that extend from opposite sides of the C-shaped clamp member. The attendant or patient can snap the C-shaped member on or off the fitting of a ventilator tube, moving the C-shaped member to the side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Steven M. Ess
  • Patent number: 5769491
    Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a back rest with lordosis support comprised of a bendable supporting element mounted on a wire grating by means of clamps carried by the supporting element. Each clamp forms a slot having a central tongue dividing the slot into first and second compartments for receiving first and second wires, respectively, of the grating. The combined widths of mouths of the two compartments is less than the combined diameters of the two wires so that the two wires cannot be inserted or removed simultaneously. The tongue is flexible to enable the two wires to be inserted or removed sequentially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Jorg Schwarzbich
  • Patent number: 5702270
    Abstract: A surgical handpiece holder for use in protecting a surgical handpiece during storage or autoclaving, and providing a template for the storage of excess handpiece wire is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Casica, James Y. Chon
  • Patent number: 5703330
    Abstract: A carrier for a wire harness and fuel brake, or other tubes of a vehicle with inner and outer channels each having a generally C-shape cross section and constructed to releasably snap together to form a duct in which the wire harness is received. Snap clips on the exterior of the channels releasably retain the tubes. The carrier bundles the wire harness and tubes together and provides a self-supporting assembly for the flexible wire harness which facilitates installation and assembly to the underbody of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Bundy Corporation
    Inventor: Rick A. Kujawski
  • Patent number: 5697129
    Abstract: A clamp releasably engages a handle of a tool and simultaneously engages two tools that have utility when attached to the end of the handle. The base part of the clamp is C-shaped and is flexible and resilient to releasably engage the handle. Each tool-engaging part of the clamp is also C-shaped and made of a resilient, flexible material to releasably engage its associated tool. Each tool has a cylindrical sleeve that engages the distal end of the handle when in use and which is engaged by its associated clamp when not in use. The first tool has a pair of parallel, closely spaced apart fingers that engage an awning lock, pull down an awning, and install a tie down strap over a vehicle. The second tool removes and attaches a slider valve of the type found on recreational vehicle sewer or drain connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Duane H. Newville
  • Patent number: 5692268
    Abstract: Devices for securing a first object to a second object, comprising a preformed, flexible strap having a first end and a second end, and including a first opening preferably located in the vicinity of the first end and a spaced apart second opening preferably located in the vicinity of the second end of the strap. The openings are designed to releasably receive the first object. A strap receiving aperture is formed in the strap intermediate the first opening and the second opening of the strap, and is designed to slidably receive one end of the strap to form a loop which is capable of encircling a second object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Richard N. Case
  • Patent number: 5677513
    Abstract: A tying device for tying a wiring harness having a first annular holder for holding general wires, which has a first slit for inserting therethrough the general wires into the first annular holder; and a second annular holder for holding specific wires, which has a second slit for inserting therethrough the specific wires into the second annular holder and has a diameter smaller than that of the first annular holder so as to extend into the first annular holder from an inner peripheral surface of the first annular holder through a rib; wherein the second annular holder is positioned at a central portion of the first annular holder such that a space for accommodating the general wires is defined between the inner peripheral surface of the first annular holder and an outer peripheral surface of the second annular holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeharu Ito, Takahiro Kato, Hiroshi Kuroda, Mikio Satou, Chigusa Ichio, Tutomu Sakata
  • Patent number: 5655270
    Abstract: A double ended clipping device used for attaching assorted types or sizes of identification at one end and for attaching to various clothing types at the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Rene G. Boisvert
  • Patent number: 5653411
    Abstract: A clamp for clamping pipes, especially but not exclusively for combustion engine supply pipes, comprises a body (1) with at least two housing seats (2) which are adjacent and provided with two sidepieces (102, 202) which encompass a pipe (3) laterally. A coupling notch (4) for a catch-type distance piece (5) is provided between the adjacent sidepieces (102, 202) of two adjacent housing seats (2), the catch-type distance piece being borne by a clamping bracket (6) which can be clamped against the body (1) itself. According to the invention the catch-type distance pieces (5) and at least one of the associated external surfaces of at least one sidepiece (102, 202) have respectively at least a complementary tooth (105, 302) or respectively a tooth and a complementary reciprocal clamping notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Bundy International Limited
    Inventors: Pierluigi Picco, Roberto Rossi, Luigi Bisio
  • Patent number: 5642557
    Abstract: This invention relates to a clip for releasably connecting a panel edge to a rod. The clip comprises a first jaw for releasable connection to the panel edge, and an opposed, substantially arcuate, second jaw for releasable connection to the rod. The first jaw includes a locking means for engaging with a complimentary part of the panel edge. The first and second jaws are integrally formed of a resilient material. The clip may be particularly suitable for joining display panels together about a common connecting rod. The display panels, once connected or joined, are free to move with respect to each other about the common connecting rod which acts as a hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: C J Distributors Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Mark Clews
  • Patent number: 5626436
    Abstract: An elastic clip to fasten crossed bars, characterized in that it has the form of a simple or double couple of jaws symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped, which comprises seats (D) and hooks (A) placed crosswise and joined together by bodies (B) so that they can be managed simultaneously with fingers and are capable of fastening said either single or coupled crossed bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: Mario Dragone
  • Patent number: 5613655
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasably retaining and mounting an article such as tubular members. The apparatus includes a body member having an article retention portion for capturing an article and a mounting surface. A hinged cover is releasably disposable over the article retention portion of the body member for releasably retaining an article captured in the article retention portion of the body member. A first engagable clasp having a first latching surface is disposed on a second end portion of the cover and a first latch engaging surface is disposed on the body member, wherein the first latching surface is engagable with the first latch engaging surface when the cover is disposed over the article retention portion of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Marion
  • Patent number: 5607452
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a holder for retaining a pacifier in a baby crib in a position which is readily accessible to a child. The pacifier holder is preferably made of rubber material, and includes a mounting and a pacifier holder. The mounting mounts the pacifier holder to a vertical bar of a baby crib and is either a wrap around flap partly covered with VELCRO.TM. material, or a clip-on tubular member. In both embodiments a friction of the rubber material against the crib bar retains the pacifier in place on the bar. Furthermore, the mounting of both embodiments is adaptable to crib bars of different sizes and shapes. The pacifier holder includes a flexible upper finger and a flexible lower finger, defining a holding slot for retaining a pacifier therein. The upper finger is optionally curved upwardly in the shape of a hook for retaining a variety of baby articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Inventor: Barbara Michaud
  • Patent number: 5593205
    Abstract: The clamp for securing a canopy to a beach chair has a pair of metal plates fixedly secured to a cross-piece of the canopy. In addition, the clamp employs a plastic strap between the two metal plates for engaging with the tubular cross-piece of the chair under the biasing force of the adjacent metal plate. A nut member of trilobular shape is provided on a threaded bolt which passes through the metal plates and plastic strap to bias the metal plates towards each other. The large surface-to-surface contact provided by the strap provides a positive clamping action of the clamp on the tubular member of the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Telescope Casual Furniture Co.
    Inventors: Robert D. Vanderminden, Sr., Nathan Butler
  • Patent number: 5584456
    Abstract: A clip for securing a towel to a chair. The inventive device includes a mounting assembly for securing to a lounge chair. An engaging assembly projects from the mounting assembly for coupling to a beach towel to secure the towel relative to the lounge chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Owen Stephens
  • Patent number: 5572775
    Abstract: A hanger clip adapted specifically for the dry cleaning industry. The device includes an elongated main body. At each end of the main body are a pair of hanger securing means. The hanger securing means are adapted to clip around the throat portion of a hanger. The hanger clip is inserted into the group of hangers through the open area of the hangers, and is moved upward to the throat of the hanger until the clips are secured on the throats of two terminal hangers in the desired group. The clip also includes a scanner identifiable tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventors: Steve Mailloux, Herb Neumann
  • Patent number: 5561870
    Abstract: A one-piece, multi-functional gripping connector is disclosed, to be used as a shower curtain rod attachment in conjunction with a standard shower curtain and curtain rod assembly, to allow the end or ends of the curtain to be turned inward, thereby preventing water from spraying out of the shower enclosure. The sole point of support for the attachment is its connection to the shower curtain rod. The invention is comprised of a single sheet of strong, flexible, elastic material, such as PETG thermoplastic, which is formed into an open-sided, open-ended, tubular shape having rounded edges, and which is also notched and bent 90-degrees at the mid-point to form an elbow configuration. Installation is by hand, without use of tools, and will not damage existing surfaces. Removal of the shower curtain rod is not required. Alternate embodiments are also disclosed, which provide illustrations of the invention's multi-functional aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Donald L. Hertel
  • Patent number: 5542209
    Abstract: A stalk support for flowers comprises generally a roughly R shaped clamp displaceably attached to a cylindrical rod thereon. The clamp is made from a flexible plastic material having a roughly hoop clasp with a pair of spaced legs parallel extended outward at a rear periphery therefrom, a slotted opening formed on an opposing periphery of the hoop clasp, three circular finger contacts formed respectively at the free ends of the two legs and the arcuate arm of the clasp thereon and a cylindrical sleeve connected perpendicularly to the free end of a straight arm of the hoop clasp therewith so as to define a roughly circular space to receive a peduncle of the flower therein. An alterative embodiment provides an openable sleeve that facilitates a ready attachment of the clamp to a rod thereon. Another embodiment provides a sealed sleeve that suitable for attaching to the top of a rod in different diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventor: Shyong-Shyy Sheu
  • Patent number: 5540547
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for damping the vibrations of circumferentially extending and generally cantilevered tubing segments of a cooling manifold of a gas turbine engine which is disposed in a generally concentric relationship with and attached to an annular engine casing. The vibration damping means comprises a plurality of clip elements, with each clip element being attached to a pair of axially adjacent ones of the tubing segments at a location proximate free ends of the tubing segments which engage an axially extending manifold plenum in slip joint connections. Each clip element comprises first and second arcuate retainers connected by an arcuate spacer section which establishes the proper axial spacing between the retainers. At least one of the retainers engages the corresponding tubing segments in an interference fit, with each retainer establishing an interference fit in a preferred embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Lester E. Cole
  • Patent number: 5533239
    Abstract: A sheet metal spring clip made from a resilient metal rectangular strip which is bent at various locations intermediate its top and bottom edges to cause sections of the clip to lie one above the other in a spaced relationship. The clip has a pair of connected elongated apertures each having unbroken walls normal to flat top and bottom surfaces, which walls serve as bearing surfaces at opposite sides of each of the two connected apertures for mounting of the clip preferably on a vertical support. Spaced handles similarly directed permit the resilient clip to be squeezed for positional alignment on the support. The clip further includes an edge slot in communication with a third elongated aperture, which aperture has similar walls and serves to provide bearing surfaces for retention of a bar normally disposed with respect to the support, after the clip has been positioned at a desired elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventor: Allen M. Gall
  • Patent number: 5522121
    Abstract: A device is provided for engaging and disengaging any two baby strolling devices consisting of two components spaced apart and coupled by a snap release connector. When mounted between the frames of any two baby strolling devices (given that it can rotate at any angle), Instandem allows any one person to operate the two strolling devices simultaneously as well as disengaging them as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventors: Saul Fraynd, Sara L. Fraynd
  • Patent number: 5522122
    Abstract: A strap of stretchable material that is adapted for engagement with one end of a flashlight, wrapping around the handlebar of a bicycle, and further engagement with the other end of the flashlight, thereby securely strapping it to the handlebar. The strap includes two pairs of holes, one pair at each end, each pair including an inner hole and an outer hole. The back portion of the flashlight is first inserted through the outer and inner holes of the first pair of holes in the strap; the light is then positioned against the handlebar, the strap is wrapped around it and stretched to permit the insertion of the front portion of the flashlight into the inner hole of the second pair of holes, thereby securing the light to the handlebar. The strap is then stretched again along the length of the flashlight to insert the back portion of the light into the outer hole of the second pair of holes in the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventors: Carmi Turchick, Yael Salomon
  • Patent number: 5518211
    Abstract: A utensil-holder supported by a vessel, such as a pot, and permits a hand held utensil, such as a spoon, to be held until needed. The utensil for stirring, serving or other operations is held conveniently above the vessel and when not in use placed and held in a position over the vessel permitting any residual contents from the vessel on the utensil to fall back into the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventors: Garold B. Gaskill, Teresa M. Gaskill
  • Patent number: 5509636
    Abstract: A retainer clip for use with concrete form tie for retention of reinforcing rods has a one-piece body which includes a header, and first and second clips extending angularly therefrom, spaced apart in a first direction, and defining therebetween a generally u-shaped opening sized to slidably receive a reinforcing rod of generally circular cross section. Each of the clips include first and second prongs spaced apart in directions lateral to the first direction, and at least two prongs of the clips further define therebetween a narrow generally rectangular passage which intersects at least a portion of the u-shaped opening, and is sized to receive at least a notched form tie of generally narrow rectangular cross section. The retainer clip secures the reinforcing rod in position substantially against the form tie in a notch to inhibit both relative motion in the first direction and substantial separation therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph A. Cotugno
  • Patent number: 5497963
    Abstract: An induced-draft fan pipe mounting device for mounting an induced-draft fan pipe to an electric soldering iron, including a mounting strip mounted around the handle of the electric soldering iron and having a series of through holes along the length, two connecting plates connected together by a screw to hold the mounting strip on the handle of the electric soldering iron, each connecting plate having a first lug at one side inserted through one through hole on the mounting strip and overlapped on a back side of the mounting strip, and two opposite second lugs respectively covered over the back side of the mounting strip; and an induced-draft fan pipe holder having two lugs at one end respectively fastened to either two adjacent through holes on the mounting strip, a holding device at an opposite, which receives the induced-draft fan pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventor: A-Ying Lee