Clasp, Clip, Or Support-clamp Cut Or Shaped From A Single Sheet Of Resilient, Uniformly Thick, Planar Material Patents (Class 24/563)
  • Patent number: 11555614
    Abstract: The present invention provides an oven slide rail handling mechanism with a locking function, comprising a connecting frame mounted on inner walls of both sides of an oven body, and a rail body, a lower rail of the rail body connects to a connecting component. The connecting component includes a guide snap and a front holder, the front holder and the guide snap are respectively mounted at two ends of bottom surface of the lower rail, the guide snap is provided with a snap-fitting position, and the front holder is provided with a latch rod. The mechanism is able to quickly assemble or disassemble the slide rail, is able to hold in multiple directions, and has locking function, preventing the slide rail from being disengaged from the connecting frame, improving the reliability of structural performance, ensuring the use effect of the slide rail and the use quality of an oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Jiangsu SARCAH Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tao Hu, Jian Sun, Wenming Yang
  • Patent number: 11417934
    Abstract: A connection element for mechanical and electrical connection to a contact element of an electrical storage cell comprises a contact receptacle and a clamping device. The contact receptacle is open in a set-on direction and receives a portion of the contact element. The clamping device extends into the contact receptacle in a press-on position of the clamping device. The clamping device is formed from a shape memory alloy transferable by a phase transformation into the press-on position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: TE Connectivity Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Gerzson Toth, Andreas Baus, Wilhelm Grzywok, Uwe Hauck, Andre Martin Dressel, Yoshikawa Hiroko
  • Patent number: 11365831
    Abstract: A plastic pipe clip includes a slitted annular body having a through slit to allow receiving a pipe in the annular body. The pipe clip includes pair of mounting flanges integrally formed on the annular body on an opposite side of the annular body as the side where the slit is located. The mounting flanges each having a support surface and at least one mounting hole adapted to mount the pipe clip to a support structure. The mounting flanges are arranged and configured to be pinched together so as to open the slit on the opposite side of the annular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: J. VAN WALRAVEN HOLDING B.V
    Inventors: Marek Juzak, Frank Nijdam
  • Patent number: 11347075
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of camera shake reduction technology and discloses a suspension assembly of OIS, which comprises a printed circuit board and a spring plate movably disposed on the printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board is electrically connected with the spring plate, the printed circuit board comprises a substrate plate and a bend portion extending downwards along any side edge of the substrate plate, a support component is attached to a bottom surface of the substrate plate, a plurality of conductive terminals are arranged on an outside surface of the bend portion, a plurality of reinforce components are arranged on an inside surface of the bend portion and corresponding to the plurality of conductive terminals one to one, and the plurality of reinforce components are placed at intervals and do not contact with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: SAE MAGNETICS (H.K.) LTD.
    Inventors: Xianwen Feng, Ying Xiao
  • Patent number: 10566751
    Abstract: The lamp socket includes a connecting seat, a lamp cap, a first conductive wire and a second conductive wire. The connecting seat has a first passage provided therein, a first threaded section for thread connection with a lamp and an accommodating portion or hole in the first threaded section. The lamp cap is detachably provided at the connecting seat, and has a first conductive region and a second conductive region, the second conductive region having a second threaded section adapted to the first threaded section. A thread gap is formed between the first threaded section and the second threaded section. A limiting portion which may be formed as a mass enlargement at the end of the first wire cooperates with the accommodating portion or hole to prevent pull out of the wire from the thread group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: XIAMEN GHGM ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Bingshui Chen, Baohua Huang, Zhihuan Li, Yonglong Li
  • Patent number: 10426488
    Abstract: A device for excluding the left atrial appendage (LAA) includes first and second members, each with first and second ends. The second ends are connected by a hinge. The first ends interlock to close the device about the LAA. The members are shaped such that they can exclude the LAA without causing the development of necrotic tissue. If desired, a flexible cover can be provided and the first and second members can be disposed within the cover. If such a cover is used, it will contact the LAA in order to cushion the contact between the members and the LAA and minimize the tendency of the LAA to bleed. The invention also includes methods for using the device to exclude the LAA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Inventors: Robert E. Michler, Albert N Santilli
  • Patent number: 10418603
    Abstract: A circuit substrate, a plurality of supporting members that are arranged at intervals in a longitudinal direction of the circuit substrate and support both longitudinal ends of the circuit substrate, and a housing onto which the supporting members are fixed are included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: FDK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Minoru Imaizumi, Masanori Yamashita
  • Patent number: 10335158
    Abstract: A device for occluding a conduit includes first and second members, each with first and second ends. The second ends are connected by a hinge. The first ends interlock to close the device about the conduit. The members are shaped such that they can occlude the conduit without causing the development of damaged or necrotic tissue. If desired, a flexible cover can be provided and the first and second members can be disposed within the cover. If such a cover is used, it will contact the conduit in order to cushion the contact between the members and the conduit, minimize the tendency of the conduit to bleed, and increase traction relative to the conduit. The invention also includes methods for using the device to occlude a conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Inventors: Robert E. Michler, Albert N. Santilli
  • Patent number: 10327809
    Abstract: A collar for a surgical access device includes an annular body laterally attachable to a cannula of the surgical access device. A spring is coupled to the annular body and movable between an uncompressed state and a compressed state. The spring is configured to manipulate the annular body between a first condition and a second condition to selectively fix the annular body at predetermined locations along the cannula or to laterally remove the annular body from the cannula while the cannula is supported within a patient's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Oksana Buyda, Anthony Sgroi, Jr., Christopher Tokarz
  • Patent number: 10240820
    Abstract: In various representative aspects, an end clamp that mounts a bottom flange of a solar panel module to a rail support structure without requiring any tools for insertion while mechanically fastening and electrically bonding the solar panel module to the rail support structure. A method of installation is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Ironridge, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon Ash, Shawn J. Meine, David Taggart
  • Patent number: 9848590
    Abstract: A clamp is provided which is adapted for use in fishing and other outdoor activities. The clamp includes a plurality of elongate segments and a grasper, which further features a plurality of tines. In operation, the clamp is operated by the user so as to grasp and hold live bait for baiting a hook. The clamp is typically operated by the user applying pressure against a tension, so as to actuate the grasper between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: JB III & Things, LLC
    Inventor: Robert A. Pangrcic
  • Patent number: 9845874
    Abstract: A compression seal bracket for sealing a thermally moveable end of a generator cooler is disclosed. The bracket may include a unitary body including a first portion at an angle to a second portion with an integral curvilinear portion therebetween. Each portion may have: a seal ring engaging member for engaging the seal ring to compress the seal against the seal seat, a shim member configured to be coupled to the seal seat between the seal ring engaging member and the seal seat, the shim member having a predetermined thickness. The seal ring engaging member and the shim member may include a plurality of corresponding fastener openings, each opening for receiving a fastener for coupling to the seal seat. A related bracket system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Michael Christopher Villani, Anthony Salvatore Arrao, Anthony James George
  • Patent number: 9458869
    Abstract: A fastening element (100) for clamping together a stack of sheets (410), (411) comprising at least two sheets. The fastening element comprises at least one base portion (101) extending along the stack of sheets and perpendicular to the planes of the sheets. Further, the fastening element comprises a flange portion (102) which extends substantially perpendicular from the base portion, and a pointed element (103) which extends in an acute angle with respect to the base portion. The flexible fastening element generates a spring force which clamps the sheets of the stack of sheets together between the at least one flange portion and the at least one pointed element. In this grip position, the at least one pointed element grips at least one edge of a bottom sheet of the stack of sheets, and a top sheet of the stack of sheets is allowed to move in relation to the at least one flange portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Waltherus Emericus Johannes Van Gompel, Niels De Koning
  • Patent number: 9370213
    Abstract: A multi-purpose flexible clip for gripping a medium to which it is affixed consisting of a thin, one-piece high density material shaped in a rectangle having a front facing side and being folded over to form a backside thereby creating a resistant clip, said backside having two holes formed therein for access to said medium for gripping said medium for removal from said medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Inventors: Jessica Brooke Dighton, Anthony John Dighton
  • Patent number: 9259043
    Abstract: A fastening device configured for an easy removable attachment to fabric that is employable with one hand to form a compressive engagement with a mounting point on fabric that is easy to use and non-damaging to fabric. The device can be easily operated by users with limited hand or finger dexterity or only having a single useable hand. The engagement provides a compressive gripping engagement means which is easily positioned to a mounting position on fabric which can be sighted through a gap in a central area of the body of the device. The enhanced gripping means are provided by a toothed gripping means or a friction enhancing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Aaron Jones
  • Patent number: 9033146
    Abstract: Embodiments of a loop clip used with a golf bag and methods to manufacture a golf bag are generally described herein. Other embodiments of the loop clip may be described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Karston Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Higdon, James D. Martell
  • Patent number: 9027571
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool (1) for separating a hair bundle (11) comprising a number of hair strands appropriate for receiving a hair treatment composition (15) for creating a hair bundle effect. The hair bundle (11) is received into a through hole (10) via a slit (50). The dimensions of the through hole (10) dictate the appropriate size of a hair bundle (11). In one aspect of the present invention, the tool (1) is substantially flat in order to prevent spillages of hair treatment composition (15) onto the scalp. A gripping layer (70) may extend upon at least a portion of the tool (1) for aiding the grip of the tool (1) to the hair bundle (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Baker, Gwenalle Deloux, Natasha Jane Evans, Neil Anthony Litten, John Edward Sheppard
  • Patent number: 9004800
    Abstract: A windshield wiper arm bracket includes a pair of side walls. Each of said side walls include at least one centrally located pin arm receiving hole formed therein. The bracket also includes a post attaching the pair of side walls together. The post is for receiving a pin arm adaptor thereon. The bracket also includes an attachment arm formed on a bottom of each of the pair of side walls. The attachment arms are for connecting the bracket to a windshield wiper assembly. An adaptor for a windshield wiper arm bracket includes a top portion and a web portion. The web portion includes a central aperture formed therein. The central aperture includes a first portion for receiving a post of the windshield wiper arm bracket and a second aperture for receiving a pin arm of a windshield wiper arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Alberee Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Lee
  • Publication number: 20150040357
    Abstract: A clip for attaching sheeting and trim to a grain bin includes a plate having a strip that is foldable over the plate along a fold line. A pair of slots are positioned at opposite ends between the plate and the strip and extend inwardly from the ends. The strip has four corners that alternate from a 90° corner to a rounded corner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Jeremy Ryan Woodland, James Richard Shipley
  • Patent number: 8914949
    Abstract: Money holding devices (e.g., clips) configured to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration by applying a force to a portion of one arm of the clip that is wider than a corresponding portion of another arm of the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventors: Chip Edward Thomson, Chan Chun Yau, Timothy Uys
  • Patent number: 8840010
    Abstract: A box closure device engages and holds the flaps of a box in their downward closed position. The device is constructed in a general “I” shape such that the top member is parallel and connected to a bottom member by a vertical member. It slides inward between the opposing flaps of a box from one (or either) side of the box with the “I-beam” connecting member of the device fitting in the space between the flaps. The top and bottom members are of sufficient length, width and depth to hold the box closed. The device gains further operative value when promotional or box content labels, business cards, displays, signage, décor, pictures or the like are applied to the surface of the top and/or bottom members of the said device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Eco-Latch Systems LLC
    Inventor: Jack D. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20140259570
    Abstract: A fastener (10) includes a clamp arm (26) which is connected with a base (24). The clamp arm (26) cooperates with the base (24) to form an entrance (80) into which an article (14) extends. A first locking tab (40) extends from the base (24) into a first opening (64) in the article (14). A second locking tab (120) extends from the clamp arm (26) into a second opening (142) in the article. When a withdrawal force is applied to the fastener, an arcuate portion (116) of an inner side surface (108) of the clamp arm (26) moves from a position spaced from an outer side surface (164) of the article (14) to a position in which the arcuate portion of the inner side surface of the clamp arm is disposed in abutting engagement with the outer side surface of the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Michael Markie
  • Patent number: 8832939
    Abstract: A method of attaching a seat cushion to a seat frame includes the steps of providing a spring latch having a spring portion and a brace portion, engaging a spring leg of the spring portion with the seat frame, attaching a cushion engaging leg of the brace portion to the seat cushion, and receiving a brace leg of the brace portion into a lock formation on a locking leg of the spring portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Erik C Wilson, Samuel D Wagoner, Patrick E Temple, Eric DeView
  • Patent number: 8820689
    Abstract: A guide rail configured to be mounted on bars of a grid side part of a household appliance or furniture. The bars run horizontally and are bent at an angle in bent end regions. The guide rail includes a quick fastening device including two mounting elements attached in end regions of the guide rail and configured to be detachably fixed to the bars of the grid side part. A first mounting section partially encloses one of the bars in a longitudinally extending region of the bar. A second mounting section partially encloses the bar at one of the bent regions of the bar. One of the mounting sections faces a rear bent end region and is open in a direction towards a rear of the guide rail. A resilient catch lug extends upward from the leg and engages behind the bar that is enclosed by the mounting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Paul Hettich GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Daniel Reidt, Sven Budde, Holger Redeker, Timo Kaps
  • Publication number: 20140216962
    Abstract: Embodiments of a loop clip used with a golf bag and methods to manufacture a golf bag are generally described herein. Other embodiments of the loop clip may be described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: KARSTEN MANUFACTURING CORPORATION
    Inventors: David A. Higdon, James D. Martell
  • Patent number: 8701254
    Abstract: A clamp structure includes a base plate, a pair of first jaws, and a pair of second jaws. The first jaws extend respectively from two sides of the base plate in a face-to-face manner and form a first jaw opening at their ends. The first jaws are also formed with a pair of cutouts that face each other. The second jaws extend respectively from the pair of cutouts towards the base plate and form a second jaw opening at their ends. Each second jaw has a hook-shaped configuration composed of a first arc near the second jaw opening and a second arc away from the base plate, wherein the first arc has a greater curvature than the second arc. A junction box and a solar panel which are bonded together can be inserted into and thus clamped by the clamp structure so as to be secured against lateral shifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: K.S. Terminals Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Hsin Lin
  • Patent number: 8701588
    Abstract: Bookmarks can include a base that can couple with a cover of a book and a ribbon that can be attached to the base. For some bookmarks, the base includes a display body that can be positioned at an exterior of a cover of a book when the bookmark is coupled with the book, and also includes a rigid body coupled with the display body such that the rigid body can be positioned at an interior of the cover of the book when the bookmark is coupled with the book. The rigid body can include a coupling assist region having a cavity that extends rearwardly relative to the display body. An edge of a book cover can be received into the cavity before being advanced between clamping portions that are defined by the display body and the rigid body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Franklin Mill, LLC
    Inventor: S. David Clarke
  • Patent number: 8616222
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool for separating a hair bundle of hair from the remaining hair for a hair bundle effect such as highlighting, the tools are structured to be applied to hair through a slit and into a through hole, the through hole then holds the hair bundle to receive the hair effect compared to the whole head of hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Baker, Gwenaelle Deloux, Natasha Jane Evans, Neil Anthony Litton, John Edward Sheppard
  • Patent number: 8534017
    Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing baseboard tilt associated with fastening a baseboard to a wall panel having a recessed edge. A baseboard support includes a corner bracket having first and second upright base members and having one or more flaps extending from an upright edge a base member. Each flap forms a flap angle with an adjacent portion of the bracket. Each flap is attached to the bracket at a resilient flap corner, or flap hinge. The baseboard support can be positioned in a corner in an upright position. A first baseboard can be positioned so that the baseboard end engages the first upright base member. A second baseboard can be positioned to engage the second upright base member, forming a mitered joint between the two baseboards. The baseboard support provides a stop that prevents each baseboard from tilting away from its corresponding wall panel and creating an unsightly gap. The flap or flaps allow the baseboard support to stand freely in the interior corner prior to baseboard positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Lloyd Schroeter
  • Patent number: 8205844
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved connector assembly for attaching objects to supports. The connector assembly has both a male connector and a female connector capable of being removably attached to each other. The male connector includes an engagement portion that extends from a contact surface and a support structure for attaching to an accessory. The female connector includes a hooked portion that extends from a female contact surface and receives the engagement portion of the male connector. Once connected, the male contact surface and the female contact surface may contact each other. The female connector may be attached to a structure, such as a wall, a free standing structure, or other attachment structure. Further, the male connector may be connected at various locations along the female connector, providing flexibility to attach the male connector at more than one location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Steffens Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Erickson, Charles J. Steffens
  • Patent number: 8191556
    Abstract: A hairpiece (35) for supplementing the natural hair of a wearer person (42). The hairpiece comprises a support net (10) formed by interconnected strands (11). The net is shaped to conform with the scalp of the wearer person. A plurality of bands of hair (36) are permanently secured spaced-apart, to the strands (11) of the support net (10). The bands of hair are disposed in a predetermined pattern to conceal the net while maintaining flexibility thereof. Independent attachment spring clips (20) are permanently secured in an upper portion of the support net (10) to removably secure the net in the wearer person's natural hair (43) wherein the net (10) and the attachment spring clips (20) are substantially non-visible in the natural hair to supplement and provide styling to the natural hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Gael Betts Concepts Inc.
    Inventor: Gael Betts
  • Patent number: 8162560
    Abstract: A quick-fixing element mounted on a guide rail and configured to receive at least one horizontally running rod of a grid side part. The rod includes an angled end region. The quick-fixing element includes a first clip retaining section constructed to partially engage around the rod at a predetermined position along a length of the rod. The quick-fixing element also includes a second clip retaining section configured to partially engage around the rod at the angled end region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Paul Hettich GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventor: Achim Wittgrebe
  • Patent number: 8151808
    Abstract: An elastic hair clip includes a clip frame composed of a first clip frame and a second clip frame, and a joint member. The first and the second clip frame respectively have one end integrally forming a joined end and another end forming an open end, respectively. A clipping strip is disposed between the first and the second clip frame, a little shorter than the first and the second clip frame and having one end formed integrally with the joined end of the first and the second clip frame. When the hair clip is used, the open ends of the first and the second clip frame are combined together by the joint member to make the first and the second clip frame properly curved for clipping hair with the help of the clipping strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Jui-Ming Tu
  • Patent number: 8146875
    Abstract: A mosquito coil holder in the form of a clip. The clip has a first and second contact portions each adapted to contact a mosquito coil and to hold a mosquito coil therebetween. First and second support portions support the respective first and second contact portions relative to each other. A connection portion connects the first and second support portions. The clip includes at least one base portion which acts as a base upon which the clip can stand in use, while holding a mosquito coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis Pryor
  • Patent number: 8136770
    Abstract: A mount (50) for mounting an exhaust gas component (30, 32, 16) in an exhaust pipe (34) or in a component housing includes a spring band (54) and a plurality of spring fingers (64). The spring band (54) is configured to contact and substantially pass around an outer surface (52) of the exhaust gas component (30, 32, 16). The plurality of spring fingers (64) extend from the spring band (54) generally axially with respect to the exhaust gas component (30, 32, 16) and generally radially from the spring band. The spring fingers (64) contact the exhaust gas component (30, 32, 16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Scott A. Beatty, Gregory A. Griffin, Ivan M. Lazich, Luis Carlos Cattani
  • Patent number: 7946524
    Abstract: A device and method for preventing a wound item from inadvertently unwinding from a spool in a point-of-sale display. The point-of-sale display includes a shelf that holds the spool. The shelf has a forward edge that prevents the spool from rolling off the shelf. A device is provided that holds the wound item as it is drawn away from the spool. The device inhibits the movement of the wound item so that the wound item will not unwind from the spool when not manually drawn from the spool. The device includes a clip body that selectively engages the forward edge of the shelf proximate the spool. A retention mechanism is coupled to the clip body, wherein the retention mechanism receives and retains a section of the wound item, thereby preventing said wound item from inadvertently unwinding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Meyers
  • Patent number: 7854372
    Abstract: A rectangular box closure clip engages the two top flaps of a shipping container holding them securely without damaging the carton enabling the boxes to be reused without the need for being reformulated. The closure clip includes a pair of lower surfaces and a pair of upper surfaces interconnected by a central web that extends substantially throughout the length of the clip. The edges of the two upper surfaces are set back to facilitate insertion into the box. In a second embodiment, a vertically extending endstop is provided to prevent a box stacked atop the clip from sliding axially relative thereto. In still a third embodiment, a recess allows a binder strap to be installed around the clip to retain it in place. A programmable, scanable chip may be incorporated into the closure clip to facilitate tracking and/or to tamper-proof the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: John A Bartone, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7823927
    Abstract: Media binder systems with datum stops for registering physical media sheets are described. A media binder system that includes a cover, a binding system, and a datum stop. The cover includes an outwardly facing side and an inwardly facing side. The binding system is attached to the inwardly facing side of the cover and is operable to bind a spine end of a collection of physical media sheets to the cover. The datum stop protrudes away from the inwardly facing side of the cover and includes a datum stop surface against which a head end or a tail end of the collection is registerable prior to binding the collection to the cover. Methods of making media binder systems also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Eric Hoarau, Steven W. Trovinger
  • Patent number: 7819603
    Abstract: A snap-together assembly mechanism includes a first body having a projection defining a reduced diameter portion and a shoulder. The assembly mechanism also includes a second body defining a trough which receives the projection, the trough including a web spanning the sides of the trough, wherein as the pin enters between the web and the trough, it momentarily stretches the web until the shoulder passes the web, wherein the web snaps back once it is aligned with the reduced diameter portion of the projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventor: Steven R. Haarer
  • Patent number: 7798736
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to articles such as media binders. In an embodiment the media binder includes spine clamps for securing physical media where the spine clamps define an interior cavity for receiving the physical media; a datum stop for aligning the physical media, the datum stop disposed proximal to one end of the spine clamp; a tension sheet for transmitting an opening force to the spine clamp, the tension sheet affixed with the spine clamp; and a cover affixed with the tension sheet, the cover configured to open such that an opening force is applied to the spine clamp when the cover is opened from a first position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Eric Hoarau, Steven W. Trovinger
  • Patent number: 7721659
    Abstract: An improved support element for a shelf divider, label, and sign holder system. The support element includes a substantially U-shaped rigid plastic shell which may be adhesively affixed to the upper surface of a shelf to support a shelf divider. The support element includes elongated flexible ridges or beads within a support element channel, the free ends of which are spaced from and face the interior surface that defines the channel. The ridges are compressible to exert a gripping force on the item to be retained. The support element can also be part of a label and sign holder system. Both a single and double-facing support element is provided to interact with a label holder locking strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Fast Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Jacob Fast
  • Patent number: 7712747
    Abstract: A retaining assembly includes a body and a retainer. The body includes a compartment defined in an end thereof. The compartment is defined by a perimeter wall and an end wall. A coupling hole is defined in the end wall for receiving a tool. The retainer is mounted in the compartment of the body and has a through-hole aligned with the coupling hole of the body. The retainer further includes at least one resilient positioning portion abutting against the perimeter wall of the body for retaining the retainer in the compartment of the body. The retainer further includes at least one resilient clamping portion extending into the coupling hole of the body for pressing against at least one face of the tool received in the coupling hole of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 7690142
    Abstract: A holder for clamping flexible sheet material includes an extruded plastic, elongated channel member having a base wall having two ends. The base wall is connected at one of the ends to a relatively short, upstanding forward leg having an inner face forming a bearing surface. The forward leg has a free upper end, and the base wall is connected at the other of the ends thereof to a relatively long, upstanding rearward leg having an upper end, and a top wall is joined to the upper end of the rearward leg. The top wall extends down behind the forward leg and has a free end which resiliently engages the bearing surface of the forward leg and it also has a crease or bend line spaced apart from the upper edge of the forward leg so as to define a wedge-shaped opening therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald M. Pollack
  • Patent number: 7677525
    Abstract: A vegetation attachment device for supporting plant limbs is used in combination with an overhead support member, such as the horizontal support wire of a trellis system used to support grape vines. Embodiments of the device generally comprise an attachment hook configured to engage the overhead support wire, a closing hook, a catch member for engaging the closing hook, a deformable limb containment structure, and biasing means for maintaining the engagement of the closing hook to the catch member. The deformable limb containment structure deforms to accommodate limited lateral deflection or growth in the vine or plant limb. Embodiments of the disclosed apparatus may be used instead of currently known devices, such as wire ties, for supporting vines and branches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventors: Martin Solario Sanchez, Leonardo Favio Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7641220
    Abstract: An airbag system in a motor vehicle including one or more inflatable airbags and at least one airbag fold bracket configured to indicate the location of at least one airbag fold of the inflatable airbag. The airbag fold bracket may also be configured to maintain the position and shape of the airbag fold of the inflatable airbag while in the undeployed state. Furthermore, the airbag fold bracket may be configured to adjust and tune the deployment of the inflatable airbag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy Visker, Hiroshi Noma
  • Patent number: 7571560
    Abstract: A method of presenting sales information to an automobile customer on an automobile having a window that may be slid vertically within a window frame. The method uses an informational slip and a slip holder sized to accept the information slip. The slip holder includes a clip defines a downwardly facing open channel and a tongue extending downwardly from the front wall. Also, a sheet of resiliently deformable material is attached to the tongue and bent backwards at a bending point defining the sheet holder bottom and a rear panel extending upwardly from the bending point. The informational slip is placed on the car window so that information is displayed through the front portion, which is transparent. The clip is formed so as to press the sheet into the window, thereby acting to reduce gaps between the informational slip and the front panel and, as a consequence, enhancing slip visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Robert J. Peterman
  • Patent number: 7562462
    Abstract: A hands-free level indicating device includes a level for determining a spatial orientation of a structural member, and an apparatus for securing the level to the structural member. The apparatus includes a U-shaped portion for attaching to the level and a hook-shaped portion for clamping around the structural member. The U-shaped portion and hook-shaped portion can be formed from a single strip of flat material, such as spring steel. A spring is provided to bias the hook-shaped portion in a direction toward the level to allow the apparatus to secure the level to different sizes of structural members. The spring can be a leaf spring that attaches to a base of the U-shaped portion and extends in a longitudinal direction of the level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventors: Carl Gentleman, Robert E. Hinze, Daryl L. Tschantre
  • Publication number: 20090083954
    Abstract: A versatile clip designed primarily to fit over the folded end of a tube containing toothpaste or other materials, but with many other applications as well, such as a closure for bags and an organizer for papers and other flat items. It has a unique one-piece design that makes it inexpensive to manufacture and easy to use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Hunter Hoggan
  • Patent number: 7509956
    Abstract: Provided is a device for attachment to tubular connections that serves to ensure the securing of the connection and the avoidance of inadvertent disconnections. Also provided is an endotracheal tube having a releasable locking device component that serves to ensure security of the connection of the endotracheal tube to a breathing system. Also provided is a breathing system having a releasable locking device component that when employed ensures the security of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: John F. Dombrowski
  • Publication number: 20080237227
    Abstract: A T-bar clip assembly that securely couples to T-bar structures that are used to construct suspended ceiling is disclosed. The T-bar assembly is configured to support one or more electrical fixtures and provide power feeds to the one or more electrical fixtures. The T-bar clip assembly comprises support brackets that secure to the T-bar structures and one or more housing structures that attach to a portion of the support brackets to form one or more corresponding junction box enclosures. The junction box enclosures provide the power feeds to the one or more electrical fixtures at locations that are substantially flush with support flanges of the T-bar structure, an outer surface of the removable ceiling tiles or both.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Brian S. Hendrickson, Walter Blue Clark