Abstract: A method of applying a self-tightening hose clamp including the steps of providing a self-tightening hose clamp having a flexible member with a substantially circular shape and disposed in a first plane. The flexible member being expandable from a first position defining a first opening to a second position defining a second opening, the second opening being larger than the first opening. The flexible member also having first and second spaced apart ends. The flexible member is expanded from the first position to the second position. A first tubular member is then received in the opening of the hose clamp and the hose clamp is translated in a first direction along the first tubular member. The tubular member having a hollow chamber extending therethrough. A second tubular member is placed within the hollow chamber of the first tubular member, and the hose clamp is translated along the first tubular member to a position overlapping the second tubular member.

Abstract: An all plastic clip for a portable electronic device is described. The clip includes a housing having a cradle for receiving a flange attached to the portable telephone and a back plate closing the housing. A latch inside the housing includes a detent extending through an orifice in the housing wall into the cradle. The latch release includes a release button disposed in an opening in the top of the housing. A displacement tine extends from the release button and includes a displacement ramp for interacting with a lifting slope on the latch. A resiliently flexible tongue also extends to the latch. In use, the release button is pushed and the displacement ramp interacts with the lifting slope to displace the latch and release the device. When the release button is released, the resiliently flexible tongue urges the latch back into the locking position.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing a spring retaining ring into a groove of a workpiece includes a storage unit, a passageway, a groove locator and a pusher. The passageway delivers the ring from the storage unit to the groove and includes interior and exterior portions as well as orientation member for orientation of the ring during its motion through the interior of the passageway. The substantially flat, spring-type groove locator has one of its ends connected to the passageway and another free end adapted for engagement with the groove. The pusher is movable within the passageway for forcible delivery of the spring retaining ring to the groove. In the operation, the free end of the groove locator is positioned within the groove to guide movement of the ring prior to its entry into the groove, whereas the free end of the groove locator is forcibly removed from the groove upon the ring entering the same.