Opposed Engaging Faces On Gripping Member Formed From Single Piece Of Resilient Material Patents (Class 24/545)
  • Patent number: 6742224
    Abstract: By inserting at least one cable connecting two or more electronic devices (communication, audio, display, input/output, or other) into a clip that joins the cable(s) to a log detailing the cable's connections, subsequent maintenance of and changes to that connection are made simpler and more efficient. The preferred approach inserts one end of each connecting cable into a clip having a socket for a detachable log; a second approach connects the clip to an already-attached cable. The detachable log keeps the functional information concerning each cable, and its connections, held by said clip, including the physical characteristics, functional purpose, and details of the other end(s) attachment(s) and target(s). Another function of said clip permits more stable and easily-handled insertion or removal of one or more cable(s) from the device to which it is or they are attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Eldad Matityahu
  • Patent number: 6729585
    Abstract: A cable tray comprises a sheet metal central spine (10), comprising a channel web (12) and two channel flanges (13), and a plurality of cantilever bearer elements (11). Each bearer element is affixed to the spine by a spring clip (22) comprising two resilient tongues (23) adapted to clasp the spine between themselves. Each tongue has a barb formation (24) at its free end overlying a margin of the web, and a stud (25) extending into a hole (14) in the adjacent flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: FCI
    Inventor: Bruce Ogden
  • Patent number: 6725508
    Abstract: A first support element and a second support element are arranged opposite to each other. A connection element is arranged so as to connect one ends of the first and second support element to each other therethrough, so that the first support element, second support element and connection element cooperate together to form a substantially U-shape in section. A press element is formed at a free end of the second support element in a manner to be extended from the free end through a hinge groove. The press element is inwardly bent at the hinge groove to abut at a distal end thereof against an inner surface of the first support element, so that papers or the like are inserted between the first support element and the press element, resulting in the papers or the like being firmly interposedly held by the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Nirei Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masao Noda, Yuji Shirakawa, Shigenobu Nirei
  • Patent number: 6718691
    Abstract: A fastener to secure and train branches of a vine or plant to a horizontal support wire or other structures comprises a longitudinal body including first and second hook portions and a longitudinal flexible member having first and second ends connected to the respective first and second hook portions. The first and second hook portions are mirror images of each other but rotated 180°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jim Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040064925
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holding clip (1, 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Applicant: Schott Glas
    Inventors: Matthias Muller, Gunter Bauer
  • Patent number: 6712320
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for bundling cables, ropes, wires, or other long flexible materials that are desired to be bundled. The device comprises an arcuate strap for encircling bundled cables. The strap is preferably discontinuous, with first and second ends forming a mouth into a central cavity formed by an arcuate strap. Finger grips are located adjacent to the first and second ends, allowing fingers of a user to be used to pull the first and second ends of the strap to open the normally closed mouth of the device. The device also preferably includes engagement features on the first and second ends to allow the first and second ends to be forced into engagement to lock cables into the cavity formed by the arcuate shape of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Alexander F. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6691382
    Abstract: A retainer injection-molded from tough plastics for securing two wire meshed/grilled members together, for enabling the two secured members to be turned relative to each other between the operative position and the collapsed position. The retainer has two transverse through holes arranged in parallel, and two peripheral gaps through which the respective wire rods of the first and second wire meshed/grilled members are respectively set into the transverse through holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Lien-Cheng Su
  • Patent number: 6668675
    Abstract: A shift control assembly and method includes a shift linkage, a shift control rod, and a retainer member. The retainer member is secured to the shift control linkage in a manner such that a fastener integral with the linkage extends through a portion of the retainer clip. The shift control rod is secured to the retainer by clip portions formed thereon in a manner such that a final assembly threaded member can be secured on the fastener member of the shift linkage to complete the shift control assembly. The assembly method involves providing a shift link with a fastener secured thereto, assembling a retainer on the shift link, assembling a control rod on the retainer, and securing the assembly together with a fastener member securely engaging the fastener secured to the shift link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Van Camp, Steven Alan Kornburger, Anthony P Tata
  • Patent number: 6643900
    Abstract: A quick-fixing element for fastening guide rails on lattice-like lateral parts includes an upper holding section which reaches at least partially around a first rod of a lateral part, and a lower holding section which reaches at least partially around a second rod of the lateral part which extends essentially parallel to the first rod. A nose is provided between the upper and the lower holding section, which nose rests on the second lower rod or rods of the lateral part. The quick-fixing element is held securely on the lateral part and can also be used for different lattice types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Paul Hettich GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Peter Jährling
  • Publication number: 20030148701
    Abstract: A method and a device for fastening balloons to a fastening base, e.g. for sale. According to the invention, the balloons (2) are fastened, for example, to a relatively thick main cord (1) using a device (3) which is easily broken or by other means detachable from the main cord without the string (8) for handling the balloon participating in th eprocess. The string is pulled out only when detachment from the main cord takes place, and does not become entangled in the balloon bundle even in windy weather.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Juhani Turjanmaa
  • Publication number: 20030140466
    Abstract: A means for securing a beach towel or blanket or the like on a beach, lawn or the like, having a container sized to receive a weight such as sand, and a slotted diaphragm of flexible resilient material shaped to receive and secure the edge or corner of the towel or blanket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Avi Ellman, Brent Coetzee
  • Publication number: 20030126722
    Abstract: A visor clip of unitary construction is presented along with a method for manufacture. The visor clip includes an engagement portion that frictionally engages with an engagement target, which may be a sun visor in an automobile. A payload portion is designed to receive and frictionally couple to a payload, where the payload may include a number of small objects such as toothpicks. The payload portion includes a number of extended portions on one or more of the surfaces that define the payload portion. The inclusion of the extended portions provides a number of force application points that enhance the frictional engagement of the payload.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6578585
    Abstract: A barrette structure comprises at least two body sections are attached by their ends through hinge elements. Preferably, a first body section is a semi-rigid bowed structure with an interior concave surface and an exterior convex surface. A second body section is a flexible strip spring member that capable of bowing inward toward the interior concave surface of the first body section with the device in a closed position and outward away from the interior concave surface of the first body section with the device in the open position. With the device in the open position, a section of hair is placed through the opening formed by the first and second body section. The first and second body sections are presses together causing the second body section snap to the closed position securing the section of hair. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the device is equipped with gripping features which facilitate holding the section of hair between the first and second body section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventors: Barbara Stachowski, D'Miles Salmon
  • Patent number: 6575411
    Abstract: A curved portion 1g of a lead line set 1e is received in a recessed portion 13d that is formed in an inner face 13c of a base piece 13 in the open state. An inner face 17a of a first folded piece 17 is folded on the inner face 13c of the base piece 13, and the curved portion 1g of the lead line set 1e is sandwiched between the base piece 13 and the first folded piece 17. Thereafter, an inner face 21a of a second folded piece 21 is folded on an outer face 17e of the first folded piece 17, and the lead line set 1e portion that is slightly nearer the distal end than the lead line set 1e portion that is folded along a folding line X is sandwiched between the first and the second folded pieces 17 and 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuyoshi Serizawa, Minoru Kubota
  • Publication number: 20030101551
    Abstract: A molded, semi ridged device for the purpose of securing a length of fabric or towel wrapped around the body of a person of the type having a straight flat base (10) connected to the face (12) by the top section (21). The base can be offset from the face to the left (7), right (13), and bottom (9) making the device easy to install beneath the bottom layer of the towel or fabric. The face of the device is inclined toward the base a few degree's from parallel till the beginning of the raised lip (14) which than is raised away from the base a few degree's from parallel to help facilitate the installation process. The towel/fabric clip has raise rails (15) (16) running vertically under the face, and raised rails (17) (18) running vertically under the base of the device to insure horizontal and vertical pressure on the towel/fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Alfred B. Levesque
  • Patent number: 6553851
    Abstract: A clamping device is used to push a test button on an exit sign or emergency light. The clamp can be attached without damaging various signs and lights. The clamp includes a channel (40), which guides an adjustable protruding object to push a test button located on the bottom of the exit sign or emergency light. The clamp can test exit signs and emergency lights that are wall mounted by modifying the base (10) with a flat back (130). The clamp can also be used in conjunction with an extension arm (90) to reach test buttons located at a distance from the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: Paul I. Carrico, Daniel B. Borchardt
  • Patent number: 6536719
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for bundling cables, ropes, wires, or other long flexible materials that are desired to be bundled. The device comprises an arcuate strap for encircling bundled cables. The strap is preferably discontinuous, with first and second ends forming a mouth into a central cavity formed by an arcuate strap. Finger grips are located adjacent to the first and second ends, allowing fingers of a user to be used to pull the first and second ends of the strap to open the normally closed mouth of the device. The device also preferably includes engagement features on the first and second ends to allow the first and second ends to be forced into engagement to lock cables into the cavity formed by the arcuate shape of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: .Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander F. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6526635
    Abstract: A cord clip for fastening a cord attached to e.g. an earphone to an object such as a clothes is disclosed. The cord clip includes a clipping portion for clamping the object and a cord holding portion for holding the cord. The clipping portion is formed by a first annular portion having a discontinuity at a part thereof. The clipping portion is capable of clamping the object at a clamping portion thereof provided by a narrow gap formed by the discontinuity of the first annular portion by means of an elastic resilient force of the first annular portion. The cord holding portion is formed by a second annular portion having a discontinuity at a part thereof. The cord holding portion is capable of holding the cord therein by means of an elastic resilient force of the second annular portion. This elastic resilient force of the second annular portion is independent of that of the first annular portion. The first annular portion and the second annular portion are formed integrally in a single member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hosiden Corporation
    Inventors: Koji Nasu, Satoru Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6513206
    Abstract: A retainer clip is shown for retaining a device through an opening in a panel such as a printed circuit board, enclosure wall or similar structure. The clip surrounds the portion of the device projecting through the aperture and by a single longitudinal motion engages cooperating portions of the device to secure the device at the panel opening. The clip includes means for detenting in the assembled, locking position to prevent accidental release of the device from the secured, mounted condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Terry Fredrick Banitt, Gary Allen Olson
  • Publication number: 20030019087
    Abstract: The present invention relates to fabric article clamping systems and method for using the clamping systems alone or in conjunction with a stretching system to remove and/or reduce wrinkles and/or creases in a fabric article, preferably in a manner in which new wrinkles and/or creases are not formed or are minimized in the fabric article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Merih Pasin, Marina Hermie, Joost Ignace De Waele
  • Patent number: 6477744
    Abstract: The visor clip for a vehicle visor is a one-piece member molded from a resilient material. The visor clip includes a primary clip, a secondary clip and a third clip. The primary clip and the secondary clip share the same bight portion. The third clip and the primary clip share one leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Gregory Henry Miles
  • Patent number: 6477751
    Abstract: A securing member or tether clip for swagging a table cloth, fabric or other similar material, has a base for gathering the table cloth to form a swag. The base includes a first end and a second end. A first arm is swingably connected to the first end of the base. A male member is connected the first arm, the male member has a neck and a head connected to the neck. A catch extends the arm. A second arm is swingably connected to the second end of the base. A female member is connected to the second arm for receiving the male member. A first hinge is connected between the first arm and the base. A second hinge is connected between the second arm and the base. A hook and loop fastener includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is connected to the clip. An augmenting attachment is connected to the second portion of the hook and loop fastener. The second portion connects the attachment to the first portion of the hook and loop fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventors: David Baumdicker, Susan E. Baumdicker
  • Patent number: 6457218
    Abstract: A plastic clip of unitary, one piece construction, and a method for making the same is disclosed. The clip includes a first leg of a first thickness, a second leg of a second thickness, and a bridging section joining the first leg and the second leg, the bridging section being of a dimension that upon cooling or curing of the plastic material, the bridging section biases the first leg against the second leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Lloyd L. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 6430782
    Abstract: A lighter clip for use with a cigarette pack is inexpensively manufactured from a material such as injection-molded plastic. A generally three-sided clip is sized and shaped to fit across the width and depth of the pack, and contains an arcuate portion, suitable for holding a lighter, on one end. The clip is manufactured from a resilient material, and shaped in a manner that causes it to be lightly biased against the pack, thereby holding the clip in position. The two longer clip arms are sized to have a large enough surface area to be suitable for promotional use, and the clip arms and ends are shaped to securely grip the cigarette pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventors: David Torres, Martin Moberly
  • Patent number: 6418595
    Abstract: An improved structure of a clothes hanger clasp includes a U-shaped main body that is composed of a lower clasp plate and an upper clasp plate that connects each other on one end. A stop post is disposed on the other end of the lower clasp plate. A curved area that projects outwardly and curls inwardly is arranged on the other end of the upper clasp plate. A plurality of enhanced bar are disposed on the lower clasp plate and the upper clasp plate respectively. The feature of the device is in check-pattern grooves and at least one hole for preventing slipping arranged on the curved area. When being used, if users want to remove the clothes hanger clasp, they just need to put finger on the curved area for applying force, combined with the structure of the hole for preventing slipping and the check-pattern grooves, they can easily take off the clasps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Feng Shih
  • Publication number: 20020073519
    Abstract: An assembly includes a first garment and a second garment. A first garment sorting device is secured to the first garment. The first garment sorting device includes first and second jaws closed onto the first garment and a female outer member. A second garment sorting device is secured to the second garment. The second garment sorting device includes first and second jaws closed onto the second garment and a male outer member. The male outer member is retained by the female outer member to attach the first garment sorting device to the second garment sorting device. The assembly can be processed through washing and drying operations of a laundry cycle. When the laundry cycle is complete, the devices can be separated from each other but can remain attached to the garments and worn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Gregory J. Simon
  • Patent number: 6389658
    Abstract: A clip for mounting an object such as an electrical box on a stud is provided which comprises a fist side portion for engaging a first surface of the stud; a second side portion for engaging a second surface of the stud; the second side portion including at least one box clip arm for securing the electrical box to the clip; and at least one support member extending between the electrical box and the second surface of the stud for substantially preventing flexing of the clip and inward movement of the electrical box when a force is applied generally inwardly of the electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Jerome Pfaller, Mark Anthony Bailey
  • Patent number: 6378175
    Abstract: A resilient fastening clip (10) for attaching a plant member (22) to a portion of a support structure includes a clip wall (24) that creates a first enclosure (12) and a second enclosure (14) which are integrally fashioned from the clip wall (24). The first enclosure (12) has a first enclosure entry mouth (16), and the second enclosure (14) has a second enclosure entry mouth (18). The first enclosure entry mouth (16) may lie either within the second enclosure (14), or may be external to it. A flexible arm (34) is optionally provided to help capture the support wire (20). The clip (10) may also have a number of gripper protrusions (46) which prevent rotation of the plant member (22) within the second enclosure (14). An alternative preferred embodiment of a resilient clip (110) has a transverse wire channel (58) formed in the first enclosure region (12), into which a support wire (20) may be inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Doorframer, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald D. Vanderpan
  • Patent number: 6360407
    Abstract: A spring clip for releasably holding the door of a vehicle in an ajar position is provided. The spring clip is adapted to be removably attached to a vehicle body during the manufacturing process. The spring clip is comprised of a base member and a spring finger. The base member includes a pillar tab having a retainer that affixes the spring clip to the body of the vehicle. The door tab of the base member is adapted to slide into an opening in the door. The spring finger is coupled to a base opening that is defined by the base member. The spring finger extends in a cantilever fashion from the base opening into engagement with the vehicle door such that the door is held ajar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel T Webster, Brian W Kao, James R Carter, Brian A Hicks
  • Patent number: 6360999
    Abstract: A device for retaining an LED indicator on a computer enclosure includes a hole defined in a panel of the enclosure for receiving the LED indicator therein. The hole has a circumferential edge along which a perpendicular flange is formed for surface contacting and thus securely retaining the LED indicator. Two radially extending slits are defined in the panel in communication with the hole thereby forming a resilient tab therebetween. A nominal diameter of the hole is substantially corresponding to or slightly smaller than a diameter of the LED indicator whereby when the LED indicator is inserted into the hole, the resilient tab is deflected and thus applies a biasing force to the LED indicator for securely retaining the LED indicator. A round corner is formed between the flange and the edge of the hole for avoiding damaging the LED indicator and for guiding the LED indicator into the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision IND Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nien Chiang Liao
  • Patent number: 6343449
    Abstract: A tension strap connector assembly for use in a stabilizing foundation system for a manufactured home supported by at least one flanged beam. The tension strap connector assembly is adapted at a first end so as to hook around and latch about a flange of the manufactured home support beam. At a second end, the tension strap connector has a strap slot adapted to receive a tension strap of the stabilizing foundation system, wherein the tension strap is attached at one end to a ground anchor. The tension strap connector provides a means for altering the orientation of the tension strap relative to the hook portion so that the tension strap can be arranged in non-perpendicular orientations with respect to the manufactured home without creating a torsional stress concentration within the tension strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • Patent number: 6305056
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the width of the waistband of a skirt or a pair of trousers, includes a U-shaped clip which slides onto the waistband perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the waistband. The U-shaped clip has two limbs which are interconnected on the top sides thereof and which run substantially parallel to each other. The waistband is arranged in a fold formed by the waist band passing by the clip, substantially parallel thereto, first to one limb of the clip. The waistband loops around the first limb before running back in an opposite direction, between the two limbs of the clip, to the second limb. The waistband further loops around the second limb before finally being guided back in the opposite direction. Each side of the clip is also provided with an arm which extends vertically. The arms are provided near the plane defined by the clip and fit on a respective outer flank of the fold on a side facing away from the U-shaped clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas Hübner
  • Patent number: 6301756
    Abstract: A clip design for securing an object to an article of clothing on a wearer. The clip contains first and second display surfaces for conveying a message, slogan or other device to a wearer and to others in proximity to the wearer when the clip is in use. The display surfaces are oriented in a direction opposite from each other and positioned such that a message contained on the surfaces are oriented in a direction to be visually perceivable by the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Fred Howard
  • Patent number: 6298526
    Abstract: A securing member or tether clip for swagging a table cloth, fabric or other similar material, has a base for gathering the table cloth to form a swag. The base includes a first end and a second end. A first arm is swingably connected to the first end of the base. A male member is connected the first arm, the male member has a neck and a head connected to the neck. A catch extends the arm. A second arm is swingably connected to the second end of the base. A female member is connected to the second arm for receiving the male member. A first hinge is connected between the first arm and the base. A second hinge is connected between the second arm and the base. A hook and loop fastener includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is connected to the clip. An augmenting attachment is connected to the second portion of the hook and loop fastener. The second portion connects the attachment to the first portion of the hook and loop fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventors: David Baumdicker, Susan E. Baumdicker
  • 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: 6240605
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for use in remanufactured toner cartridges in which the toner hopper has been physically separated from the developer roller housing. The device holds the toner hopper and developer roller housing in proper alignment to one another and the component parts within. The nature of this device is disclosed and described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Static Control Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Stevens, William L. London
  • Patent number: 6237200
    Abstract: A device useful forclipping a textile article, such as an article of clothing, or more particularly, a pair os socks. This device consists of a first part (2) fitted with a gripping device (4) located at one of its ends, a second part (3) fitted with a gripping device (5) located at one of its ends, and opposite to the first part, a third part (11) connecting the first and second parts, this third part (11) being flexible and elastic. The first part (2) and the second part (3) are mobile in relation to each other so that in the rest position, the gripping part (4) of the first part (2) and the gripping part (5) of the second part (3) engage with each other to achieve a pinching action on the woven or non-woven material, and so that in the active position, they disengage in such a manner as to release the woven or non-woven material. Application for the clipping, for example, of socks while in the wash or being dried.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: Alain Rodier, Duncan Barclay
  • Patent number: 6237197
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in securing a golf cart buckle lever in a closed position includes a clip having a substantially U-shaped body that can secure the buckle lever in a closed position. The U-shaped body includes a front and a rear member that are disposed in a spaced-apart parallel relationship and a perpendicular top member which is disposed and attached intermediate thereto. An inner member that is parallel to the front member is disposed intermediate the front and rear members and is attached to the front member by a pair of inclined members disposed on opposite ends thereof. A pair of apertures are adapted to receive a locking device and a tether is provided to secure the clip to the golf bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Cahill Donahue
  • Patent number: 6233869
    Abstract: A supporting frame for a portion of a stem of a plant comprises a generally arc-shaped guiding member, two spacers projecting away from an inside concave surface of the guiding member, and a pressing member pivotally connected to the spacers. The guiding member, the pressing member and each spacer define a U-shaped cross-section for permitting insertion of the portion of the stem therein. The pressing member is deformable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the pressing member is away from the guiding member and the portion of the stem can be inserted between the guiding member and the pressing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Hortimat Inc.
    Inventor: Jérôme Dearo
  • Patent number: 6226843
    Abstract: A ligating clip includes a substantially planar head portion and at least two legs each extending away from the head portion. The head portion is resilient and spring biased toward a closed position, and the legs can be positioned in a plane defining an angle with the planar head portion of greater than about 90° and less than about 180°, which provides for better visibility of clips during application of the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Design Standards Corporation
    Inventor: Lawrence Crainich
  • Patent number: 6216996
    Abstract: A live hinge for clipboard clip box (10) having a cover (12) which comprises a cover rear (12A), cover front (12F), cover left side (12L), cover right side (12R), cover top (12T), and cover bottom (12B). The live hinge for clipboard clip box (10) has a box (14) which comprises a box rear (14A), box front (14F), box bottom (14B), box left (14L), and box right (14R), the cover top (12T) is hingeably connected along a front to a top distal end of the box front (14F). The live hinge for clipboard clip box (10) and abase (18) connected to the box bottom (14B) by a hinge (20).The live hinge for clipboard clip box (10) has a board (24) securely attached at a top to the base (18), a user lifts box front (14F) pivoting the box (14) upwardly on the hinge (20) inserting paper (26) from a frontward direction between a top of the base (18). and the box bottom (14B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Ellis N. Shamoon
  • Patent number: 6189187
    Abstract: A clip is disclosed herein which is composed of a resilient material and comprises a body having the following elements as in a relaxed state: opposing first and second ends, of which the first end is open to define a first slot, and the second end is closed; a first aperture adjacent to and communicating with the first slot, the first slot having a width less than the diameter of the first aperture; a second aperture adjacent to the second end; and a second slot extending between and communicating with the first and second apertures, the second slot having a width less than the respective diameters of the first and second apertures. The body of the clip is capable of deformation to temporarily increase the widths of the first and second slots for (i) receiving a pair of elongated member portions (i.e. electric cord portions) in respective first and second apertures, and for (ii) removing the clip from such elongated member portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: John J. Williams
  • Patent number: 6170130
    Abstract: A lashing system having one or more cord anchors fastenable to a stationary member in spaced apart relation, and one or more cord clips each having a first portion with a first cord engaging member releasably and coupleable to a first cord portion and a second portion with a second cord engaging member selectively and releasably coupleable to a second cord portion so as to accommodate a particular article stowage application. The cord anchors also have a cord engaging member releasably coupleable to the cord, whereby the cord may be selectively coupled to one or more cord anchors, and thus positioned selectively on the stationary member. The lashing system also preferably includes a cord hook coupled to a first cord portion and a hook portion engagable by hooking to another cord portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Hamilton, John S. Pontaoe, Steven C. Keller
  • Patent number: 6169238
    Abstract: A combination strap lock and pick storage device includes a pair of arms each having a free end and an opposite end forming a single ring defining a passage therethrough. The arms are biased away from each other such that the passage has a predefined cross-sectional area. The arms may be forced toward each other to thereby expand the cross-sectional area of the passage sufficiently to thereby allow passage therethrough of an enlarged head of a peg attached to a musical instrument. Thereafter, the arms may be released so that the passage resumes its predefined cross-sectional area and engages a shaft portion of the peg, wherein the shaft has a cross-sectional area that is less than that of the enlarged head. The device thus secures a support strap, previously attached to the peg, to the musical instrument. Each arm additionally defines a channel along an inside surface thereof, wherein the opposing channels are configured to receive a flat pick therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: BoloPick
    Inventor: Robert T. Bolo, III
  • Patent number: 6161263
    Abstract: A sock pair retention apparatus includes a resilient membrane which includes a plurality of resilient flap members formed within the membrane. The resilient flap members are oriented in a common plane when in a relaxed mode and are deformed out of the plane when in a sock-retention mode. When one or more socks is pushed between the resilient flap members, the resilient flap members are pushed out of the plane and are in a sock-retention mode. The resiliency of the resilient flap members serves to lock the socks in the sock pair retention apparatus of the invention. The socks can be removed from the sock pair retention apparatus by simply pulling the socks completely through the membrane. The sock pair retention apparatus enables pairs of socks to remain together through washing and drying. When the socks are removed from the membrane, the resilient flap members can return to their relaxed mode. A frame member can be connected to a periphery of the membrane. The frame member defines a frame-enclosed region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Paul Anderson
  • Patent number: 6122996
    Abstract: A hydrostatic transmission design including externally mounted protrusions or devices for creating a durable, visible coding system. A clip means is also disclosed for securing to the ends of the axle horns to protect the casing from contact with vehicle wheels. The transmission also includes a friction pack for improved control of the transmission, having a control arm which is not secured directly to the external housing of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Raymond Hauser, Craig Wigness, Thomas Langenfeld, William Herbert Ward
  • Patent number: 6061884
    Abstract: A tray section is constructed of longitudinal and transverse wire members. The tray sections may be configured or joined by interlocking clips, each of which features two pairs of opposing tabs separated by a pair of opposing notches. The opposing notches feature an arcuate portion and each is sized to receive a single longitudinal wire member. Each interlocking clip also features a back portion that is integral with the opposing tabs and notches. The back portion and opposing tabs are sized so that they surround a pair of adjacent transverse wire members when the opposing tabs are crimped. A crimping tool is used to install the interlocking clips and features pivotally connected opposing jaw portions with arcuate indentations. The arcuate indentations are sized to cooperatively surround the back and opposing tabs of the interlocking clip with the pair of adjacent transverse wire members received therein. Wire mesh floor pans that do not obstruct air flow may be used to support the tray sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: GS Metal Corp.
    Inventors: Donald Ohms, Terry McCrary, Steve Hagene, Brad Noward
  • Patent number: 6058580
    Abstract: A clothes hanger clasp, particularly to a clothes hanger clasp that will not easily fall off but can be loosened in a convenient way, includes a metal plate roughly in a "U" shape, where the metal plate is divided into an upper clasp plate and a lower clasp plate that are somewhat curled inwardly. On the upper clasp plate is a protruding part and a force applying mechanism that is curled inwardly. The protruding will enable stronger elasticity to for clothes hanger clasp, and, acting with the upper and lower metal clasp plates, it will tightly clasp onto the clothes hanger. The force applying mechanism facilitates easy application of force to loosen the hanger clasp, and it is designed so that the hanger clasp will not fall off easily, but it can be loosened in a convenient way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Chin Fon Shih
  • Patent number: 6052936
    Abstract: A device for using in fly fishing to facilitate the recovering and collection of the fishing line, the device comprising spring means capable of being firmly attached to a part of the clothes of an angler to collect the fishing line when recovering the same in the practicing of fly fishing and to keep the line accessible to be cast out again without running the risk of entangling the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Juan Pablo Garcia
  • Patent number: 6023832
    Abstract: A tool for the installation and removal of a lever cam operated spring clip. One embodiment of the invention has a pair of levers pivotally attached together, with one of the levers configured to frictionally engage the cam lever and the other lever configured to engage the clip's outer perimeter. Once the tool is installed on a lever operated cam spring clip, a slight squeeze of the two levers spreads the clip hooks to a position where the clip can be installed over a heat sink and engaged with an underlying electronic device. Pivoting the tool about the cam pivots the cam about its axis until the clip is locked into place. The tool can then be disengaged from the cam lever. Removal of the clip is accomplished by reversing the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig L. Boe