Cavity Having Specific Shape Patents (Class 24/700)
  • Patent number: 11312280
    Abstract: A vehicle carpet and mat fixing device may include an upper mat fastener part; a lower mat fastener part coupled to the upper mat fastener part; an upper carpet fastener part coupled to the lower mat fastener part by an upper carpet fastener protrusion protruding toward the lower mat fastener part; and a lower carpet fastener part coupled to the upper carpet fastener part, wherein the upper mat fastener part is hooked to the lower mat fastener part by an upper mat fastener hook circumferentially formed in the upper mat fastener part to fix a mat, and the lower carpet fastener part is coupled to the upper carpet fastener part by a male hook of the lower carpet fastener part to fix a carpet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: You-Jin Park, Jong-Woo Shim, Sang-Jun Park, Chang-Min Kim
  • Patent number: 9474309
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bra part which includes a first garment portion having a female fastening member, and a second garment portion having a male fastening member. The female fastening member and the male fastening member are releasably engageable with each other to connect the first garment portion and the second garment portion, so that when the female fastening member and the male fastening member are engaged with each other, the female fastening member and the male fastening member are substantially fully encased within the part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Clover Mystique Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwan Yin Yip
  • Publication number: 20150135483
    Abstract: A female buckle member is configured to securely mate with a male buckle member and adjustably retain webbing through multiple directions. The female buckle member may include a housing having first and second ends and first and second sides. A base of the housing may include a base connected to opposed lateral walls and an upper wall. An insertion channel is defined between the base, the opposed lateral walls, and an upper wall. The housing may be symmetrical about longitudinal and lateral axes. The first and second ends of the housing may have the same size and shape. The first and second ends are configured to receive an insertion end of a male buckle member. The female buckle member may also include a plurality of web-retainers that define a first web-retaining channel configured to adjustably retain webbing extending between the first and second ends, and a second web-retaining channel configured to adjustably retain webbing extending between the first and second sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael B. Grimm, Christopher A.J. Iannello, Martin J. Nilsen, Jon D. Burrow
  • Patent number: 9009926
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a portable object including a case (2) and a bracelet or strap (14). The case includes a middle part (4) from which two pairs of horns (12) extend, the horns of each pair being connected by a guide element (50) defining a space in conjunction with the middle part. The portable object includes securing means (18) including a locking part (20, 20?) inserted in each end (30) of the bracelet or strap and at least one groove (22) located on the middle part (4). The securing means (18) is arranged to enable each end of the bracelet or strap to be inserted in the space defined by the middle part and the horns of each pair connected by the guide element (50), such that the locking part (20) cooperates elastically with said groove to secure said bracelet or strap to the case in a simple manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Tissot S.A.
    Inventors: Nicolas Ehrsam, Laurie Saunders
  • Patent number: 8991006
    Abstract: In a grommet for a vehicle floor cover, receptacles formed in a generally cylindrical inner surface of a female tubular body making up part of one grommet portion receive protrusions formed on a generally cylindrical outer surface of a male tubular body making up part of a second grommet portion. The bottom grommet portion may have chamfered gussets formed adjacent a bottom retention flange in order to accommodate vehicle floor mats or trays of different thicknesses. Stud holes created in respective ones of the grommets receive studs of intentionally different shape or orientation, thereby militating against installation of the floor cover upside down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventor: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150047158
    Abstract: A first member includes a first fixing portion on which a sheet edge is fixed, a holder continuous with an end of the first fixing portion, a first recess that is defined in the holder and has an opening in a continuous direction of the first fixing portion, and a support portion that is formed opposite the first fixing portion across the opening of the first recess of the holder. A second member includes a second fixing portion on which the other sheet edge is fixed, a held portion continuous with an end of the second fixing portion. When the held portion is inserted into the first recess, the support portion is brought into contact with a surface of the second fixing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Applicants: Toyota Boshoku Corporation, YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshito Toribuchi, Tetsuya Yoshino, Hiroshi Ishisaka, Masahiro Ujihara, Takahiro Usui
  • Publication number: 20140187900
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a thin, low thickness snap for use, for example, in a heart rate monitor belt. The snap can be integrated or built directly in to a heart rate monitor belt. Furthermore, the heart rate monitor belt can be integrated within a textile or garment, for example a compression shirt, sports bra or cycling shorts. The snap can be flushly integrated into the belt or garment such the snap does not take away from the general wearability of the heart rate monitor belt or garment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: SUUNTO OY
    Inventors: Kimmo Pernu, Tapio Selby
  • Publication number: 20130239372
    Abstract: Latch mechanism devices for attaching components within a device and methods of use are provided herein. In one aspect, the latch mechanism includes a pair of deflectable members between which a protruding latch member, such as a latch pin, is inserted thereby separating the deflectable members. A latch pin can have a distal insertion portion and a proximal locking portion, the locking portion having a reduced profile so as to resiliently receive the deflectable members displaced by insertion of the latch pin so as to couple the latch pin between the cords. The latch pin can have insertion faces and locking faces angled so as to control the force required to insert and retract the latch pin from the cord pair. The latch mechanism may utilize releasing mechanisms for separating or reducing tension in the deflectable members to facilitate retraction of the latch pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan P. Kiple, Michael B. Wittenberg, Shayan Malek
  • Publication number: 20130174391
    Abstract: A fastener assembly is provided including a fastener body having at least one aperture and a cavity formed at a top portion. A cap is provided configured to be removably inserted into the cavity. A method for fastening an article is provided including providing an article having holes in opposing edges of an article opening and a lace passed through said holes. At least one fastener body is provided having an attachment point, wherein the lace is secured to the attachment point, forming at least one slack portion. Each slack portion is pulled through a set of holes in the opposing edges of the article to form lace loop(s). Each lace loop is overlapped over the at least one fastener body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Tom Neale
  • Publication number: 20130036581
    Abstract: A set of furniture assembly modules adapted to hold members of a piece of furniture together in a preassembled position prior to or during final assembly. The set of furniture assembly modules comprising at least one corner module having a face member and at least two side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the corner module is formed having an L-shape, and at least one intermediate module having a face member and at least three side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the intermediate module is formed having a T-shape, such that a user can incorporate any necessary number of corner and intermediate modules required to hold the piece of furniture together in the pre assembled position prior to or during final assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Yvon Renaud
  • Publication number: 20120291227
    Abstract: A fastening arrangement for fastening a flexible element to a rigid element is provided. The fastening arrangement comprising a first closure element and a second closure element, which each consist of a plug part, a housing part and a catch. Each closure element is closed in that the plug part is put together with the housing part in a closing direction until snapping into place in a closed position, so that the plug part and the housing part are held at each other against the closing direction. Each housing part is formed such that by means of a relative movement of the housing part relative to the plug part in an opening direction, which differs from the closing direction, the plug part is pushed out of the catch and the closure element hence can be opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: FIDLOCK GMBH
    Inventor: Joachim Fiedler
  • Publication number: 20120266802
    Abstract: An anchor (3) and an anchor positioning system (1) are provided in which an anchor shackle (7) is arranged such that, in use, it is disposed within a chasing collar (17). The anchor shackle can be positioned in a locking position in the chasing collar in which rotational movement of the anchor shackle around its longitudinal axis is inhibited. The anchor shackle may also be positioned in an unlocked position in the chasing collar. The anchor shackle can rotate around its longitudinal axis (x-x) from the unlocked position to the locking position. Accordingly, the anchor shackle assists in maintaining the anchor (3) in a desired orientation corresponding to the locking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: FE ANCHOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Edmund Fitch
  • Publication number: 20120234042
    Abstract: A sandal can include a sole, one or more straps each having at least one end that is operationally connected to the sole, and a fastening member for releasably receiving an ornament comprising one or more protruding members. The fastening member can be coupled to at least one of the one or more straps and can include an inner cavity and a housing at least partially enclosing the inner cavity. An opening can be disposed in and through an upper portion of the housing in such a way that the opening leads to the inner cavity. One or more projections can be joined with the housing and can extend into the inner cavity. Each of the one or more projection can be situated at a position along a path of motion of at least one of the one or more protruding member from an unfastened position to a fastened position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Kathe Chase, Tracy Seckler, Thomas Perrault
  • Publication number: 20120227225
    Abstract: A fastening device for fastening a changeable attachment with a container handling station includes a first member and a second member formed as a fitting counterpart to said first member. The attachment can be transferred into the fastened position by uniting and rotating said members relative to each other. A fixed stop disposed on the fastening device in the fastened position prevents rotating the two members relative to each other in one rotational direction, and an elastic, radially snapable section acts as a stop without application of any external force and prevents the members from rotating relative to each other in the other rotational direction. The snapable section fastens the two members relative to each other and can be pressed in radially such that it no longer acts as a stop and the attachment can be rotated from the fastened position and removed from the container handling station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: KRONES AG
    Inventor: Heinrich Bielmeier
  • Publication number: 20120170991
    Abstract: A fixing device used for fixing a pivot shaft includes a latching member and a fastening member. The latching member has a hollow conical latching portion. The fastening member defines a conical hole corresponding to the conical latching portion of the latching member. The latching member is capable of deforming elastically along a radial direction, and the fastening member is tightly sleeved on the latching portion of the latching member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: DIAN-CAI LIU
  • Publication number: 20120030914
    Abstract: The necklace clasp fastener for a string of beads consists of a male bead member, and a female bead member, that do not have any visible loop or eyelets for assembling and holding a string of beads together when the male and female bead members are snapped together. The resulting bead configured clasp is almost undetectable from the outside of the beaded necklace which creates an unbroken, unified string of beads for a much more aesthetic and beautiful piece of jewelry. The improved clasp of the invention provides a safety feature to guard against breakage. The two parts are designed to snap together with enough force to hold the necklace on the wearer under normal wear and use. If, however, the necklace catches on to something, the clasp will release easily from the wearer instead of breaking the necklace, and releasing the beads all over the place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Katz, Timothy John Lambert
  • Publication number: 20120017407
    Abstract: A side release buckle includes a plug and a socket into which the plug is inserted for engagement. The plug includes: a base being provided with a belt attachment and a pair of legs; and an engaging portion being formed to each of the legs. The socket includes: a body being provided with a belt attachment and an insertion opening; a housing space being formed in the body and capable of housing the legs inserted from the insertion opening; and an engaged portion being formed in the body and engageable with the engaging portion. The body includes an undulation being continuously formed in an insertion direction of the legs on at least one of top and bottom surfaces of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Ryoichiro Uehara, Yasutaka Nishida
  • Publication number: 20120005870
    Abstract: A coupler system for connecting elongate, horizontally disposed rods to vertical supports includes a top-cap component for attaching to the top of a vertical support, and including a body with plural cavities formed therein, and at least one ball-cap component for attaching to an end of a rod, and including a ball region that is constructed to fit within one of the plural cavities of the top-cap component. The body may be formed with four of the plural cavities, with each of them having beveled edges. The ball-cap components may include a ball region, a neck region, and an angled region located adjacent the neck region and away from the ball region. The top-cap and ball-cap components may include insertion regions with opposing sets of ribs. The coupler system may further include a cover component, and the body may be formed with a central hole for receiving a fastener that secures the cover component to the top-cap component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Vince Ovist, William T. Grohs
  • Publication number: 20110289734
    Abstract: A material fastener apparatus having one or more buttons which are attached to a first section of the material. The apparatus may comprise of a layer of stretchable material which may be positioned under the first section of the material. The apparatus may also comprise of one or more button holes which are attached to a second section of the material. The one or more button holes may be angled to the horizontal and are configured to receive the one or more buttons. The button holes may also be further configured to fasten the first section of the material with a second section of the material when the one or more buttons are buttoned with the one or more button holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Jay R. Kapadia
  • Publication number: 20110247184
    Abstract: Composite webs having one or more polymeric structures located on a substrate, closure systems comprising composite webs, and methods of attaching articles are disclosed. The polymeric structures are formed using thermoplastic compositions and are attached to a surface of a substrate. The polymeric structures include an area that is attached to the substrate and a detached area that is not attached to a surface of a substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: Byron M. Jackson, Leigh E. Wood, Randall L. Alberg, Dennis L. Becker, Roger D. Pavlis
  • Publication number: 20110197407
    Abstract: A method for constructing a product comprising the steps of: providing a plurality of component parts fashioned from a flexible substrate material and having a flat profile when disassembled; forming apertures in the component parts to establish fastening points for facilitating product assembly, where each aperture has a single-component snap fastener mounted therein; integrally molding each snap fastener to include a female section and a male section; assembling the component parts by removably stackably affixing the fastener male sections of a first component part to the fastener female sections of a second component part, to form a self-supporting, three-dimensional product exoskeleton having flexibly curved surfaces; and returning the component parts to a flat profile upon removal of the snap fasteners from the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen O. McCabe
  • Patent number: 7988209
    Abstract: An improved seal for a tamper evident security device employs out-of-plane curved barbs and an elongated slot to provide visual and tactile indications of proper seal installation. The out-of-plane curved barbs require elevating the seal body for installation. Only if the barbs are properly inserted into a seal receptacle does the body then assume a flat contiguous position. The elongated slot cooperates with a raised bar on the security device to provide a second distinct indication of proper seal installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Tebco Pty Limited
    Inventor: Barry Hudson
  • Publication number: 20110138590
    Abstract: The invention relates to a button fastener, comprising a penetrating part (10) and a receiving part (20), wherein the penetrating part (10) is substantially u-shaped by means of having a transversal base (16) with two parallel legs (15), each of said legs (15) having a pointed end (11; 31) and a protruding retaining member (14;34) adjacent said pointed end arranged to interlock with the receiving part (20), and wherein said receiving part (20) is substantially u-shaped with at least one transversal base (25) and at a position at a distance from said transversal base (25) an interlocking receiving member (22) arranged to interlock with said penetrating part (10), wherein at least one of said parts (10, 20) is arranged with a gripping member (19, 29) which is detachable by means of a line of rupture (17, 27). It also relates to a method of fastening buttons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: TIC SVERIGE AKTIEBOLAG
    Inventor: Karolina Rantfors
  • Publication number: 20110113599
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a portable object including a case (2) and a bracelet or strap (14). The case includes a middle part (4) from which two pairs of horns (12) extend, the horns of each pair being connected by a guide element (50) defining a space in conjunction with the middle part. The portable object includes securing means (18) including a locking part (20, 20?) inserted in each end (30) of the bracelet or strap and at least one groove (22) located on the middle part (4). The securing means (18) is arranged to enable each end of the bracelet or strap to be inserted in the space defined by the middle part and the horns of each pair connected by the guide element (50), such that the locking part (20) cooperates elastically with said groove to secure said bracelet or strap to the case in a simple manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: TISSOT S.A.
    Inventors: Nicolas Ehrsam, Laurie Saunders
  • Publication number: 20110016679
    Abstract: A press stud (10) comprises a male component (12) which can engage selectively by a snapping action in a female component (14) which comprises a resilient ring (15) which, in a closed condition of the press stud, keeps the male component (12) in connection with the female component (14). The female component (14) comprises a base structure (24) with a housing seat (30) for the resilient ring (15). A cover cap (34) is fixed to the base structure (24) so as to cover it at least partially and close off, at least partially, the housing seat (30) for the resilient ring (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Riccardo Candotti
  • Publication number: 20100306975
    Abstract: A fastener assembly attaches items to fabrics and textiles. The fastener has particular application for easily attaching racing bibs (i.e., athlete numbers) to athletic garments, and obviating the need for safety pins. In one embodiment, a female portion that passes through the fabric or textile releasably connects with the male portion that fastens the item to the fabric or textile. In another embodiment, the female portion has a cover to facilitate passage through the fabric or textile. In a third embodiment, the male portion passes through the fabric or textile, and includes a barb or a hook to do so.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Robert P. Greenspoon
  • Publication number: 20100306976
    Abstract: A buckle includes a male member and a female member. The male member includes: a base; a pair of legs that project from the base; engaging portions that are provided on the legs to be engageable with the female member; and a linking body that links the pair of legs. The linking body includes a curved portion that is curved such that the middle thereof is closest to the base. A pair of projecting portions that are substantially parallel with an insertion direction of the male member extend from the base to be disposed outside the curved portion such that the curved portion is interposed therebetween. With this arrangement, the linking body for linking the pair of legs can be disposed with less possibility that other objects are caught in a space in the male member and without increasing a length dimension in the insertion direction more than necessary. The male member can be stably held relative to the female member against a torsion force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Kaneko, Ryoichiro Uehara
  • Publication number: 20100287748
    Abstract: A fastener for fixing a mat to a carpet includes a female element having a cap and a female eyelet to sandwich a mat therebetween. A base element is engageable with the female element and includes a carpet holding arrangement for holding a carpet. The base element includes an enlarged head provided with an annular groove. The female eyelet includes at least two studs projecting inward, and deformable arms each of which extends between two adjacent studs transversely to a direction of pushing the head of the base element into the female eyelet. Each arm has a central portion disposed in the annular groove when the female element is engaged with the base element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Christian Courtin, Laurent Huet, Jesse Jensen
  • Publication number: 20100251523
    Abstract: A buckle for a seat belt harness for motor vehicles having a buckle casing and a locking and unlocking device contained therein, having a belt tongue interacting with the locking and unlocking device, the buckle casing made of plastic being provided with a damping compound for noise attenuation, is characterized in that the damping compound (12) is applied to casing shells (10, 13) on the inside of the buckle casing for the reduction of the interior volume of the casing that is not occupied by the locking and unlocking device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: HAYDOCK CONSULTING SERVICES, LC
    Inventors: Ole Scharnberg, Ronald Kliche
  • Patent number: 7799006
    Abstract: A fastening system has a first fastening member and a second fastening member. The first member has a retaining element and a substrate element. The retaining element includes a proximal edge and a distal edge and is attached to the substrate element along a line of attachment. The second fastening member has an inboard portion, an outboard portion, and an elongated opening disposed between the inboard and outboard portions. The elongated opening is configured such that at least part of the retaining element is capable of passing through the elongated opening when the retaining element is in a first orientation and when the retaining element is in a second orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Mark James Kline, Ronald Joseph Zink, II, Jeromy Thomas Raycheck, George Henry Leal
  • Publication number: 20100139059
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a clasp for jewelry comprising a first hollow closure element which comprises a groove having an insertion aperture and extending at least partially around the circumference of the first closure element. The groove is configured to receive a fastening member of a second closure element which is insertable through the insertion aperture into the groove of the first closure element and whose cross-section is larger than the width of the groove. The first closure element comprises a wall at each of the two opposite end portions which ends the hollow first closure element, wherein the groove extends into the respective wall of the end portions and ends there.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Erico Nagai
  • Publication number: 20090307878
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for attaching gear pieces to a webbed panel such as, for example, the Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS). Using the apparatus and method described herein, a gear piece can be attached to an application member configured for easy attachment to an interface member, the interface member preferably having been previously attached to a webbed panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Jon F. Kadas
  • Publication number: 20090282656
    Abstract: The fabric and bed sheet anchor secures the top-sheet to the bottom sheet by use of a two-part clasp, a frame and a plug. The frame is placed on the perpendicular end at the foot of the bed, behind and parallel to the bottom fitted sheet. The plug is placed in alignment with the frame, on the outside of the top sheet, sandwiching both layers of sheet when the plug forces the fabric through an opening in the frame, cinching top and bottom sheet together. The anchoring of the flat sheet prevents it from crawling or bunching, relieves the sleeper from tightness across the toes, and allows for excess sheet at the top where the sleeper needs it. If desired, the bed sheet anchors' unique design allows simultaneous anchoring of both a blanket and the sheets via a second plug into second and larger opening of the same frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Bonnie JoAnn Wong
  • Patent number: 7601131
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a chafe useable on an orthopedic walker and including members which define a slot through which a strap, such as the strap of a walker, may pass. The chafe also includes a stud on the member, and a connection element connecting the stud and members defining the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: VQ Orthocare
    Inventor: Robert Farrer Gilmour
  • Publication number: 20090206228
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing an advertising sign is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a support structure; a lifting system fixed to the support structure; a top rail supported on the lifting system such that the top rail can be raised and lowered between a lowered mounting position and a raised display position; and a bottom rail fixed to the support structure. The lifting system comprises a cord operable to raise the top rail to the upper display position. The top rail comprises a longitudinally extending channel adapted to engage a top periphery of an advertising sign, and the bottom rail comprises a longitudinally extending channel adapted to engage a bottom periphery of an advertising sign. A method for installing an advertising sign is also disclosed. A system and a method of retaining a flexible sheet are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Agripa Holdings Limited
    Inventors: John Dunlop Pitt, Matthew Macindoe, Alan Suttie
  • Publication number: 20090199375
    Abstract: Devices and methods based upon the concept of a split ring having certain multiple interior angles to engage a stem or post having annular ring(s) with angular geometries that are complimentary to those of the split ring. The disclosure provides designs for a wide range of insertion and desertion forces between latch engagement stems and latch engagement bodies. Changes to insertion contact angles and contact area on engagement stems and corresponding changes to insertion contact angles and engagement areas on engagement bodies can significantly modify insertion forces required to engage various devices. Similarly, changes in degrees of angle between desertion angles and contact areas on engagement stems with corresponding changes in desertion angles and contact areas on engagement bodies will significantly modify the total desertion forces required to disengage various devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Fred Koelling, Venugopal Subramanyam
  • Publication number: 20090144952
    Abstract: A hook and eye fastener includes a hook and an eye. The hook has a hook top plate and a hook base plate with a kinked end that curves toward the top plate and then curves away from the top plate. The kinked end is spring-loaded to rest on the hook top plate. The eye has an eye comprising a eye top plate and an eye base plate defining an opening for receiving the hook top plate. When the hook is initially inserted into the eye, the eye top plate pushes up against the kinked end of the hook base plate. When the kinked end slides past the eye top plate after the hook is fully inserted into the eye, the kinked end of the hook base plate snaps back down against the hook top plate and produces an audible sound to indicate the fastener is secured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Donald Seung-Yeup Rhee
  • Patent number: 7448115
    Abstract: A modular assembly for detachable securing an accessory component to a garment or the like, comprises a meshed fabric, with an array of first openings forming an integral part of the garment. A base plate and a locking plate are provided, the former being secured to the accessory component. A plurality of studs are provided on one of the plates, and a plurality of second openings are provided on the other of the plates. The plates are adapted to be positioned on opposite sides of the meshed fabric, with the studs on the one plate projecting through respective first openings in the meshed fabric and into interlocked engagement within the second openings of the other plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Frank A. Howell, Justin Kiger
  • Publication number: 20080098580
    Abstract: A snap fastener, of a laterally engageable type, for garments in general, comprises a male part including a contoured projection and to be clamped to a first flap of the garment article, and a female part, including a female part hollow body having an inner cavity and clamped to a second flap of the garment article, the hollow body including, at a top part thereof, a seat for laterally engaging therein the contoured projection, the seat comprising an elongated slot including an open end portion, formed on the peripheral surface of the hollow body. With respect to a prior like snap fastener, the inventive snap fastener has the advantage that it allows the garment article to be buttoned up by a simple lateral engaging of the male portion into the female portion, without requiring additional axial movements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Applicant: FIMMA S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gaetano Raccosta
  • Patent number: 7353574
    Abstract: A luggage carrying strap connector has a stud with a shank that protrudes perpendicularly from the carrying strap and ends in a head that is larger than the shank. The head and a shank protrude through an aperture in a clasp secured to the end of the strap. A bight in the end of the clasp bears the luggage weight, thus enabling the clasp to take advantage of the luggage weight to increase the strength of the engagement between the stud and the clasp. Resilient members have portions that protrude into the bight to form a gap that is smaller then the corresponding width of the shank to prevent connector disengagement during normal handling but also to avoid impeding coupling and uncoupling the stud and the clasp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Chang-Lin Wu, Paul Victor Scicluna
  • Publication number: 20080047114
    Abstract: A luggage carrying strap connector has a stud with a shank that protrudes perpendicularly from the carrying strap and ends in a head that is larger than the shank. The head and a shank protrude through an aperture in a clasp secured to the end of the strap. A bight in the end of the clasp bears the luggage weight, thus enabling the clasp to take advantage of the luggage weight to increase the strength of the engagement between the stud and the clasp. Resilient members have portions that protrude into the bight to form a gap that is smaller then the corresponding width of the shank to prevent connector disengagement during normal handling but also to avoid impeding coupling and uncoupling the stud and the clasp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Peter Chang-Lin Wu, Paul Victor Scicluna
  • Patent number: 6840648
    Abstract: A connector for glow sticks having first and second engaging members for engaging first and second ends of a glow stick. Positioned above the engaging members is a display area for the display of advertising or other information. The engaging members are typically shaped to fit the generally cylindrical glow stick. The ends of the glow stick are inserted into the engaging members, allowing the glow stick to function as a necklace or bracelet while displaying advertising, for example the logo of the sponsor of an event the user is attending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Northern Light Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bryant, Greg Dombowsky
  • Patent number: 6640400
    Abstract: A strap buckling assembly is used for holding an attachment to the exterior of luggage and is formed of an outer housing, an inner housing, an urging block, a locating plate, an elastic body, and a male retainer. The outer housing is fastened to the external side of a shell of the luggage, while the inner housing is fastened to the internal side of the shell of the luggage. The urging block is movably located in the outer housing and is urged by the elastic body. The urging block serves to retain an engagement portion of the male retainer inside the outer housing in conjunction with the elastic body. The urging block also serves to release the engagement portion of the male retainer from the outer housing in conjunction with the elastic body. The male retainer is fastened at one end to the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Shou Mao Chen
  • Patent number: 6298528
    Abstract: A D-ring of metal wire is specially shaped to accept and retain a special grommet of a hard, wear-resistant polymeric material. The D-ring has a base leg, a pair of side legs joined to opposite ends of the base leg and converging toward each other from junctures with the base leg, and a substantially arcuate head joined to the side legs at junctures forming a neck opening that is constricted relative to a head opening defined within the head. The grommet is received within the head opening and neck opening of the D-ring and has a hole adapted to receive a hook and a peripheral groove that is in captured engagement with the head of the D-ring and with the junctures of the head and the leg portions. Portions of the groove located at the neck opening of the D-ring are deepened relative to adjacent portions of the groove within the head opening so as to retain the grommet while enabling the grommet to be pressed endwise through the neck opening and into the head opening of the D-ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventor: David Workman
  • Patent number: 5937491
    Abstract: An improvement metal hanger ring is composed of a metal hanger ring that is formed a long hole at one end thereof for providing the band can be fixed on, and further formed a support hook at other end thereof. Located center of the support hook is provided with a ring hole. At the upper and bottom end of said support hook around the side of the ring hole has provided with a plastic jacket for avoiding the metal is rubbed and the electroplate is destroyed while the hook is hanging on the ring hole of said metal hanger ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Yung Ta Hardware & Plastic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen Wei Chih
  • Patent number: 5486127
    Abstract: A system for coupling components of toy assemblages, educational models, hobby constructions, component attachments, or the like together using a compact single point snap together axial connector, which is configured or formed with a key like portion included as part of the male connector part, and a corresponding female connector configured to prevent rotational movement about the connectors axis, and/or to limit the selective attachment of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Michael Wolfe
  • Patent number: 4998330
    Abstract: A jewelry closure device includes an outer element and a central element which are adapted to be assembled to form a pendant-like structure. The outer element includes a frame portion having a central aperture of noncircular configuration therein and the central element includes a body portion and a peripheral rim portion on the body portion. The body portion is of substantially the same dimension and configuration as the aperture in the frame portion and the body and rim portions are receivable through the aperture in the frame portion from the rear side thereof in order to position the body portion in a substantially aligned assembled position in the aperture wherein the rim portion engages the frame portion to prevent rearward movement of the body and rim portions through the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Inventor: William M. D'Amore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4844400
    Abstract: A method of manufacture and the resulting two piece drink container holder for removal attachment to an automobile vehicle within a window glass channel. The drink container holder comprises an open conical central body portion and a removable hanger portion which removably attaches to the central body portion. The central body portion of the conical housing includes a partially open bottom surface and an elongated vertical slot through which a drink container handle can protrude. The hanger portion passes through a second slot formed through a bracket attached to in the conical central body portion when removably attached thereto. The hanger portion includes an outer distal end portion for inserting within the window channel of an automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Inventor: Clarence W. Jasmagy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4559677
    Abstract: A stretchable tie-down device includes an elongated resilient stretchable tube, which is thin walled and pliable to collapse and flatten readily when pressed against a surface for gripping it frictionally and snugly. At least one hook member is fixed to the tube at one end thereof by means of a plug, which is disposed within the tube and for fixing it to the tube. The tube has a non-circular cross-sectional configuration throughout its length to provide a substantial surface area for facilitating the gripping of surfaces with the cord device. The hook member includes a flat metal hook having an outer coating of thermoplastic material thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Inventor: Richard J. Tracy
  • Patent number: 4504168
    Abstract: Structure for connecting two members together, each including parallel, spaced apart, oppositely disposed, opposed surfaces having a cross section including a short straight portion adjacent one edge thereof, a longer obliquely extending portion extending from the other edge thereof and merging with an arcuate connecting portion which intersects the shorter straight portion, which surfaces are complementary and arranged to be in engagement with the members assembled. In one modification of the invention, the oblique portion of the surface cross section starts prior to the plane of the short straight line portion of the cross section and crosses it prior to merging with the connecting portion of the cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Inventor: Michael C. Miller