Abstract: An adjustable clamping tool clevis apparatus includes a clevis body having a clevis lug, with a clevis aperture, extending from a tool end of the body and an elongated handle receiver extending from a handle end of the body. A clamp lug with a clamp aperture is received on a fastener extending through the clevis lug and clamped against a tool lug of a concrete finishing tool to secure the tool at a selected angle to an elongated handle secured to the handle receiver. The clamp lug engages a surface of the clevis body to reinforce the connection of the apparatus to the tool.

Abstract: A solenoid assembly includes a solenoid adapted to be coupled to a solenoid connecting member, with the solenoid connecting member extending from a support member. The solenoid assembly also includes a retaining bracket having a body portion and a securing portion extending from the body portion. The body portion is adapted to be removably coupled to the solenoid connecting member, and the securing portion is removably coupled to the solenoid. The retaining bracket is moveable between an unsecured position, and a secured position. The securing portion of the retaining bracket provides a spring force to the solenoid when the retaining bracket is in the secured position such that the solenoid is biased toward the solenoid connecting member to secure the solenoid between the solenoid connecting member and the securing portion of the retaining bracket.

Abstract: Ballasted Attachment for Temporary Truss Structures or BATTS are used to support Temporary structures typically built in the live event, trade show, and special event marketplace. BATTS provide a quickly deployed, leveled and stable base for which one can mount aluminum box truss too. This allows tower construction equal to the capacity of the truss itself and a flexible outrigger attachment in which many engineering requirements can be achieved. BATTS provide a ballast point to resist the overturn moment and uplift moment of concert roofs and other system that are exposed to environmental conditions. BATTS are constructed from steel and aluminum and possess substantial self-weight.

Abstract: Ballasted Attachment for Temporary Truss Structures or BATTS are used to support Temporary structures typically built in the live event, trade show, and special event marketplace. BATTS provide a quickly deployed, leveled and stable base for which one can mount aluminum box truss too. This allows tower construction equal to the capacity of the truss itself and a flexible outrigger attachment in which many engineering requirements can be achieved. BATTS provide a ballast point to resist the overturn moment and uplift moment of concert roofs and other system that are exposed to environmental conditions. BATTS are constructed from steel and aluminum and possess substantial self-weight.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tubular fusible member (21) extending along a longitudinal axis (AL) and for engaging in a two-lug clevis (14) and a single-lug clevis (12) in order to form a hinge (11). According to the invention, the fusible member (21) is constrained in rotation with one of the clevises (12, 14), and it presents a cross-section of shape that varies gradually between a central section and two distal sections, each distal section having reinforced thickness in its regions that extend parallel to the bending plane (PF) in which the fusible member (21) bends when it is stressed, the central section having a second moment of area relative to an axis normal to the bending plane (PF) that is greater than the second moment of area of the distal sections.

Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for a surgical device. A first paddle assembly may be engaged with a first paddle, and a second paddle assembly may be engaged with a second paddle. A first retainer arm assembly can be pivotally engaged with the first paddle assembly, and a second retainer arm assembly can be pivotally engaged with the second paddle assembly. A retaining key may be selectively engaged with the first and second retainer arm assemblies, and configured to couple the first retainer arm assembly and the second retainer arm assembly together in a pivotal arrangement; where the pivotal arrangement may to allow the first and second retainer arms to be positioned in a retained position with respect to each other; and may also allow the first and second retainer arm assemblies to be positioned in an non-retained position with respect to each other.

Abstract: A retractor includes a first arm, a second arm, and a translating member. The first arm comprises a proximal portion configured to retain a first retractor member and a distal portion configured to rotate relative to the proximal portion about a first axis. The second arm is configured to retain a second retractor member, such that rotation of the distal portion about the first axis causes the first retractor member to pivot toward or away from the second retractor member when the first retractor member and the second retractor member are coupled to the first arm and the second arm, respectively. The translating member is coupled between the proximal portion and the distal portion, and is configured to receive a drive force that causes the translating member to bias the distal portion to pivot relative to the proximal portion about the first axis.

Abstract: Rear tip extenders include a tether attached to a collar that can be mounted onto a respective cylinder forward of a fluid line (that communicates with a scrotal pump) to prevent full separation or detachment from the cylinder during a revision procedure.

Abstract: A coupling capable of adjustably cantilever-mounting a machine such as a labeling machine to a mounting structure, wherein the attitude or inclination of the machine to other machinery such as a conveyor can be precisely adjusted. Also, there is a method a mounting a machine to mounting structure with the capability to adjust the inclination of the machine that requires only one person.

Abstract: A article of survival equipment for wear by the user comprising a weaved cord portion, a shackle, a tongue and a pin. The shackle is coupled to one end of the cord portion and further includes two apertures disposed at opposing ends of the shackle adapted to receive a pin. The tongue is coupled to the other end of the cord portion and is disposed between the ends of the shackle. The tongue further includes a plurality of apertures for receiving the pin. The pin extends substantially between the shackle apertures when inserted in the shackle and the tongue.

Abstract: A connecting rod is composed of two or more assembled shells made of a composite, open over the entire length of the connecting rod. The shells incorporate clevis joints for introducing stress at each of their ends. The shells are produced separately then assembled together to form a sealed section. Each shell is made from a material preimpregnated with long fibres. The production of each shell is simplified due to the overall shape of the shell as a simple curve, thus a shell may be produced industrially, for example, by thermoforming a flat composite preform. The two shells are assembled by simultaneous polymerization of the shells, by bonding, by welding, by riveting or any other assembly process or combination of assembly processes that are compatible with one another. The structural composite connecting rod obtained has very good mechanical properties, especially in compression, with a simple and economic production process.

Abstract: An adjustable clevis assembly includes a clevis, a first adjustment sleeve, a second adjustment sleeve, a tongue and a clevis pin. The clevis includes a first support flange with a first sleeve aperture and a second support flange with a second sleeve aperture. The first adjustment sleeve is seated in the first sleeve aperture, and includes a first pin aperture that is eccentric relative to the first sleeve aperture. The second adjustment sleeve is seated in the second sleeve aperture, and includes a second pin aperture that is eccentric relative to the second sleeve aperture. The tongue is arranged between the first support flange and the second support flange. The clevis pin extends through the first pin aperture, the second pin aperture and a third pin aperture in the tongue.

Abstract: A method of modifying a hand-held tool which having a stationary handle actuated by a movable handle connected to a movable tool jaw by a connection linkage, the method including removing the moving handle and the stationary handle. A pneumatic actuator with a piston rod is added. The connection linkage is modified to extend between the piston rod and the movable tool jaw. A trigger is added between the pneumatic actuator and a source of pressurized gas.

Abstract: Disclosed is a coupling device (1) intended to connect first and second elements which are articulated with respect to one another, wherein the device includes a compression element (2) designed to allow a compressive force to pass from one element to another in a first state, and a tension element (3) designed to allow a tensile force to pass from one element to another in a second state, the compression element additionally forming a substitution tension element designed to allow a tensile force to pass from one element to another in a third state corresponding to the fracturing of the tension element.

Abstract: A swingable connecting device includes an oscillation supporting mechanism for swingably supporting a shackle to a supporting body. A mounting bolt of the supporting body has a first male threaded portion and a second male threaded portion formed separately at opposite ends thereof with different diameters. A bolt shaft portion whose diameter varies continuously from the first male threaded portion to the second male threaded portion is formed between the first male threaded portion and the second male threaded portion. The supporting body is provided with a bolt hole for allowing the bolt shaft portion to fit into and engage with the bolt bore, through which the small-diameter second male threaded portion extends. The bolt bore has an inner surface profile, in which an inner diameter thereof continuously varies with an outer circumferential surface of the bolt shaft portion. A nut integrally connects the mounting bolt with the supporting body.

Abstract: A panel clamp assembly includes a primary panel clamp and at least one secondary panel clamp releasably-connected to the primary panel clamp. The primary panel clamp includes a clamp member having a pair of jaws and a web interconnecting the pair of jaws to each other in a manner to form a generally U-shaped configuration and to define a channel therebetween and a support member extending longitudinally and parallel to the web and connected to the clamp member. The at least one secondary panel clamp includes a clamp member, similar to the one above, and at least one hook-shaped fastener connected to the clamp member and sized and adapted to be releasably connected to the support member of the primary panel clamp.

Abstract: A push-in-bung assembly is provided that improves vibration and lateral movement control for vehicle suspension systems. The push-in-bung assembly includes a bung formed of rigid material and having a first end configured to connect to a vehicle frame and a second end configured to connect to a vehicle differential. A track bar can be included between the bung and the vehicle frame. The track bar can connect with the vehicle frame using a bracket assembly.

Abstract: An extended length strand take up device is presented that may be used to repair damaged guy wires in the field. The invention comprises two connecting bodies connected by a single tension rod that extends continuously between the two connecting bodies. Each connecting body slides over opposite ends of the tension rod and is held in place by a stop member, such as threaded nuts screwed onto the respective ends of the tension rod. The connecting bodies may further include an inwardly-facing pull tab or tabs that can be used for pre-tensioning the guy wire. An alternative embodiment of the invention comprises a single tension rod that is fixedly anchored to the ground and several connecting bodies that are fixedly mounted along the end of the guy wire at standard increments. The tension rod runs parallel to and overlaps the end of the guy wire. The connecting bodies slide along the length of the tension rod until the required tension and length is reached.

Abstract: A tie rod assembly includes a composite tie rod shaft having a first end and a second end, a first clevis carried by the first end of the tie rod shaft, a clevis adjustment collar carried by the second end of the tie rod shaft and a second clevis carried by and adjustable along the clevis adjustment collar. A method of connecting a fitting to a shaft is also disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical stapling and severing instrument particularly suited to endoscopic use includes a proximal portion that is manipulated external to a patient to position an attached elongate shaft and end effector to a desired surgical site inside of the patient. An articulation joint pivotally attaches the end effector to the elongate shaft to give further clinical flexibility in reaching tissue at a desired angle. A closure tube assembly includes a single pivoting portion that overrides the articulation joint in order to distally translate to the end effector to close, yet pass over an articulated shaft by having a multiple pivot frame ground encompassed therein to accommodate the longitudinal change in closure sleeve pivot. Thereby, additional clinical flexibility in positioning the end effector is achieved without losing the ability for separate closure and firing motions transferred by the shaft.

Abstract: An omni-positional hoist ring assembly including a bushing element that includes a sleeve with an axial length, and proximal and distal ends. A load bearing flange is radially disposed about the proximal end of the sleeve. The sleeve has an internal thread extending at least part way of the axial length of the sleeve. A mounting screw element has a major axis, a head, and a shank disposed generally co-axially around the major axis. The shank includes a threaded shank portion and a bearing portion. The bearing portion is a generally cylindrical axially extending portion of the shank that has a diameter approximately equal to the minor diameter of the thread in the threaded shank portion. A thrust washer element is provided between the head and the distal end of the sleeve. A body element receives the in-turned opposed ends of the legs of a lifting loop element in sockets. The lifting loop is free to pivot.

Abstract: A system for assembling a piece of furniture that includes at least two furniture panel labels affixed to at least two furniture panels. The system also has identifying indicia on each label, the identifying indicia including a designation which identifies the panel to which it is affixed. There is at least one directional indicia on each label, the directional indicia includes a designation which identifies the panel intended to be adjacent to the panel on which the directional indicia are placed. The directional indicia also indicate the relative directional position of the adjacent panel for assembly of the piece of furniture.

Abstract: The assembly comprises a fixed fork (10) of which the lugs (22, 30) support a rod (60) onto which a spherical ball is slipped (46) about which a cage (44) and a support (42), of the part which is mobile in rotation, swivel. The maintaining of the axial and angular positions of the spherical ball (46) in the fork is ensured, in particular, by a tight fit (A3) which replaces conventional screw and nut systems positioned at the end of the rod and which project disadvantageously. According to the invention, a pair of planar facets which are opposing and in abutment (including 23) carry out a blocking of one of the assembly pieces in rotation. Application to bell cranks for the transmission of movement, in particular in aircraft engines.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a two-axis joint that utilizes planar reactions to handle moments applied to the side of the joint thereby allowing the device to remain low profile and compact with minimal intrusion to the mounting surface of the two-axis joint. To handle larger moments, the diameter of the planar member can be increased without increasing the overall height of the joint assembly thereby retaining the low profile thereof. Upper and lower antifriction bearings may be positioned within a housing engage the planar member to reduce rotational friction. The upper and lower bearings and a hub which supports the planar member transfer forces produced by moments applied to the side of the joint so as to spread the forces over the area of the housing.

Abstract: An exemplary, non-limiting swivel fitting attachment apparatus includes a ball fitting and a swivel fitting. The ball fitting includes a base having an attachment portion, such as a flange, arranged for attachment to a structure and a ball attachable to the base. The ball may be removably attachable or fixedly attached to the base. The swivel fitting has a first end having a socket portion that is arranged to receive the ball therein and a second end having an attachment portion that is arranged for attachment to an object. The socket portion of the swivel fitting may be expandable and closeable over the ball, and may include first and second socket portion members that are urgeable toward and away from each other. The second end of the swivel fitting may be couplable to a clevis fitting.

Abstract: An airframe attachment fitting includes a fitting base having a base attachment surface and a flange attachment surface, at least one attachment post extending from the base attachment surface of the fitting base and at least one attachment flange carried by the flange attachment surface of the fitting base. An aircraft fuselage and a method of attaching a system or subsystem component to an airframe are also disclosed.

Abstract: A rigid link of adjustable length includes a yoke with a transversal stud. The stud is mounted on the yoke with two bearings, each inside a through-orifice in the yoke. The axis of the stud is offset from the axis of the bearings whereby the link includes a stopping device in order to lock the stud in at least two different positions, relative to the yoke.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a joining device (10) comprising a clevis (22) and a connecting member (28), the member (28) pierced with a through hole (30) being housed between a first and a second lug (26a, 26b) of the clevis, these lugs respectively having a first clevis hole (32a) and a second clevis hole (32b), the device further comprising a shear pin system (36) passing through each of said holes (32a, 32b, 30) and comprising a threaded end (46) collaborating with a nut system (44) bearing against the second lug. According to the invention, the shear pin system comprises a widened portion (42) passing through the first hole and forming a shoulder (50) situated between the two lugs, the member situated some distance from the first lug being pressed against the shoulder (50) on the one hand and against the second lug (26b) on the other.

Abstract: A Multiple Axis Movement Yoke/Clevis Design (Articulated Clevis) provides a means of axial movement, within a clevis design, while transmitting force between two locations. The articulated clevis allows for a more direct linear arrangement within a linkage connection.

Abstract: A bimini top hook is used in connection with a boat and a bimini frame. The bimini top hook comprises an anchor having hook with a column extending upward from a base. The hook has an arch with a throat facing downward. A clevis is provided, and has a pin extending between two furcations. The pin pivotally engages the arch throat. A latch is provided, having a resilient lever arm extending from a body portion. The lever arm has a locking tab extending downward. The latch slidingly engages a column slot. The latch is selectively movable from a first position wherein the clevis pin is able to freely engage and disengage the top hook, to a second position wherein the locking tab is locked into engagement with the base and the clevis pin is locked into engagement with the throat.

Abstract: An extended length strand take up device comprises at least two tension rods disposed in parallel spaced relationship to one another, and a first connecting body slidably mounted on the tension rods for connecting the extended length strand take up device to a guy wire, and a second a first connecting body slidably mounted on the tension rods for connecting the extended length strand take up device to a ground anchor. The first and second connecting bodies each include at least two side load tubes interconnected by a central web, each side load tube being slidably disposed on a respective one of said tension rods. A stop member at each end of said tension rods retains the first and second connecting bodies on the tension rods.

Abstract: A method enables a thrust link including a clevis to be coupled to a mounting lug including a spherical bearing. The method comprises positioning the spherical bearing within the thrust link clevis, and coupling the thrust link to the mounting lug by inserting a fastener through the clevis such that the fastener extends from one side of the clevis through the spherical bearing to the other side of the clevis, and such that fuse element included with at least one of the fastener and the clevis is positioned within a structural load path defined between the clevis and the thrust link, wherein the fuse element is configured to fail when subjected to a predetermined load.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hitch assembly for a vehicle, comprising a support portion, an engaging pin and an actuating portion movably mounted in the support portion along spaced substantially parallel axes, the engaging pin being movable between disengaged and engaged positions, wherein in the engaged position, the engaging pin is operable to engage a passage in a tongue on an adjacent article.

Abstract: An improved structure hoist-use base hoisting ring comprised of a U-shaped clevis movably suspended from the two sides at the lower end of a cylindrical base mount as well as a circular top mounting bushing at the upper section and a bottom mounting bushing at the center section having an upwardly projecting neck and a passageway that are situated over the top and bottom lateral surfaces of a bore through the interior portion of the cylindrical base mount, enabling the installation of a bolt into the top mounting bushing center section and downward through the bottom mounting bushing and the fastening and positioning of its threaded section into the threaded hole of a weight at the lower end. Among the features of the present invention, an annular recess is disposed along the top surface and center section of the cylindrical base mount that provides for the nesting of a flat planar bearing.

Abstract: A short and simple telescoping turnbuckle is formed by threadedly engaging three parts including a first end, a second end and a length adjuster. The first end includes a connection portion such as a hook or a ring and a threaded shaft. The second end includes a connection portion and a internally threaded tubular potion. The length adjuster includes a cylinder having internal threads to engage the shaft of the first end and external threads to engage the tubular portion of the second end. The length of the telescoping turnbuckle may be altered by rotating the length adjuster about the rotational axis of the turnbuckle.

Abstract: A turnbuckle linkage assembly is provided for transmitting a force between first and second locations in a machine. The assembly includes a first link for connecting to the first location such as a rod, tube or cable, a second link for connecting to the second location, and a turnbuckle. A first, threaded connection connects the turnbuckle to the first link, and a second connection connects the turnbuckle to the second link. The second connection and the second link are arranged along an axis, and an interference fit at the second connection is formed by the turnbuckle and the second link permitting the turnbuckle to rotate relative to the second link but axially affixing the turnbuckle to the second link.

Abstract: A blade attaching structure including a connecting shaft on a blade side detachably supported on an attaching groove formed on a wiper arm, wherein secure fixation becomes possible while attaching and detaching operations are simplified. An attaching groove formed on a wiper arm has a dovetail groove shape having a groove entrance portion with a groove width, the connecting shaft including a fixed shaft fixed on a bracket and a spacer having a cylinder sliding portion which is incorporated in the fixed shaft to be slidable in the rotational direction of the shaft.

Abstract: A coupler for to which a shaft is attachable is provided. includes a base. The base is formed with an upper side and an lower side. The lower side is substantially a flat planar surface. Means are provided for mounting the base on a curved surface. A preferred means is one or more ball washer assemblies. In addition, the present invention includes a tub that is adjustably connectable to the base. A plug is provided that is repositionably attachable to the tub. In addition, a neck is provided. The neck is insertable into the plug. The neck also is formed to support a shaft. The invention includes a clevis mechanism that is slidably and demountably engageable with both the plug and the neck.

Abstract: A fastening device for pivotably fixing one end of a linear drive to a support part includes a first fastening half disposed at an end of the linear drive and a second fastening half arranged on the support part. The linear drive has an installation position and a functional position, the installed position being inclined at an angle with respect to the functional position. One of the fastening halves includes a U-shaped or L-shaped section. The U-shaped or L-shaped section includes a bolt extending transversely with respect to an axis of the linear drive. The bolt has two mutually parallel, flat outer surfaces, the outer surfaces being disposed on two opposite sides of the bolt and extending parallel to a bolt axis. The other fastening half includes a cylindrical bolt socket having a radial bolt-insertion opening in an insertion direction.

Abstract: Presented is a trailer incorporating a device that allows the detachable coupling of the ball coupler and safety chains of a trailer for remote storage of these items, while incorporating a security feature that allows only the original ball coupler and safety chains to be connected. This deters the unauthorized towing or theft of the trailer.

Abstract: In a belt clip for portable electronic equipment by use of rewind urging force of a torsion coil spring, a detachment preventing mechanism of a guide shaft, serving as a shaft center of a rotational mechanism, is implemented with a simple structure so as to improve a reduction in the number of parts and yield. The respective shaft support portions 11a and 12a of a hang stopper plate 1 and both side plates 13a and 14a of a bracket 4 are combined with each other, a torsion coil spring 3 is twisted from a natural state and interposed therebetween in such a manner that a guide rod 21 is passed through a space formed therebetween, but movement of the torsion coil spring 3 to an axial direction and a change in a coil length are restrained by a groove 15 of the hang stopper plate 1 and the side plate 13a of the bracket 4.

Abstract: A hoist ring assembly for mounting on a load member includes a bolt having a circumferential recess, a support member having a bolt passage for receiving the bolt, and a pin passage transverse to and intersecting the bolt passage. A load bearing ring has legs aligned with the pin passage, and one or two pins are inserted into the pin passage so as to interengage with the recess to hold the bolt and support member against separation and to support the load ring for pivotal movement relative movement relative to the support member and for pivotal movement with the support member relative to the bolt. In one arrangement the pin passage is offset from the bolt passage and a single pin extends through the support member and engages in the recess of the bolt. In another arrangement, the pin passage opens into the recess on diametrically opposite sides thereof, and a pair of pins have inner ends received in the recess.

Abstract: A bearing system for accommodating angular movements occurring during operation of a linear actuator in a lifting structure for a ladle containing liquid steel in a continuous casting installation. Annular bearings on a piston and in an end wall of a piston and cylinder assembly allow free rotation of the piston about a first axis during controlled excursions of translating motion by the piston along the cylinder. A first attachment shaft is joined by cylindrical bearings to the arms of a first clevis for only sliding rotational motion about a second axis. A second attachment shaft secured to a second clevis carries a cylindrical bearing between the clevis arms for only sliding rotational motion about a third axis parallel with the second axis. A saddle is secured to an attachment on the piston rod and having an elongated annular load-bearing surface defining a fourth axis extending along a force transmitting junction with the first attachment shaft.

Abstract: A pivot joint and a method for molding a pivot joint includes creating a mold to form an eyelet link and a yoke link of the pivot joint, in whatever form is desired or required. A pivot bushing and a loose part are each placed into the mold. The mold is closed and, through use of either a high pressure injection molding process or a reaction injection molding process, polyurethane plastic or resin is injected into the mold through a runner and gate system. After the joint is removed from the mold, and the loose part is removed from the joint, the gate and vent are trimmed, as are one or more sub-gates between the eyelet link and the yoke link of the pivot joint. In this fashion, a fully articulated pivot joint is created in a single molding cycle.

Abstract: In a connecting device for binding or lashing having a connecting part (1) and at least one fixing part (2), a number of spacing cams (7) are disposed on the outer surface (6) of the fixing part (2). The position of the spacing cams is selected so that, without regard to the position of the fixing part (2) relative to a base, a minimum clearance is maintained between the base and the fixing part (2) to enable a perfect connection of the fixing part (2) to the base by a root weld.

Abstract: An airless spray pump has a drive train is comprised of a motor having an output gear thereon which drives a combination gear assembly comprised of two gears mounted on a shaft which in turn drives a crank assembly which is comprised of a one-piece eccentric end gear molded together and mounted on a shaft which is supported at both ends to prevent cantilevering and attendant stresses. The crank assembly is offset from the vertical axis of the displacement pump in order to reduce side-loading thereon. A connecting rod is mounted via a pin directly to the top of the displacement rod of the reciprocating pump. Retainer pin clippingly retains the pin in the connecting rod and enables the pin to be removed for servicing without the use of tools other than potentially a screwdriver or other generic tool.

Abstract: A fastening device for pivotably fixing one end of a linear drive to a support part includes a first fastening half disposed at an end of the linear drive and a second fastening half arranged on the support part. The linear drive has an installation position and a functional position, the installed position being inclined at an angle with respect to the functional position. One of the fastening halves includes a U-shaped or L-shaped section. The U-shaped or L-shaped section includes a bolt extending transversely with respect to an axis of the linear drive. The bolt has two mutually parallel, flat outer surfaces, the outer surfaces being disposed on two opposite sides of the bolt and extending parallel to a bolt axis. The other fastening half includes a cylindrical bolt socket having a radial bolt-insertion opening in an insertion direction.

Abstract: The invention is based on a fastening element for a wiper arm, which on one end has a first fastening region (12) with a conical hub (14) and on another end has a second fastening region (18) with a bearing point (20). It is proposed that the fastening element comprises a middle, longitudinally extending, prefabricated carrier part (22), and the fastening regions (12, 18) are formed by separate heads (24, 26) cast onto two ends (10, 16) of the carrier part (22).

Abstract: A breakaway coupling having a loop for receiving a connecting element. The loop includes a material reduction region. The material reduction region is formed as part of the loop such that the loop breaks at that region when placed under a pre-defined load. The coupling may be of fixed or swivel configuration. The material reduction region has dimensions less than the remainder of the loop such that-when the selected load is reached, the loop will break in that region. This design is particularly suited for those conditions when an underwater connecting element, such as a rope tied between an underwater lobster trap and a floating buoy, comes in contact with a marine animal. If the animal is of sufficient size, such as a whale, to apply the selected load to loop breakage, the connecting element will be released and the possibility of entanglement with the marine animal will be substantially reduced.

Abstract: A connector for use with a remote controlled apparatus comprising a base adapted to receive a control member and a contact surface adapted to slidingly receive a latch. Two fingers extend outwardly from the base and the latch has opposingly located deformable prongs which engage a pin and two arms which engage a contact surface found on the base. The latch is slidingly operable on the contact surface of the base between a locked and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the fingers of the base and the pin form a closed, unopenable structure. In the unlocked position, the fingers and the pin form an openable structure.