Abstract: A ball joint assembly (28) for a vehicular steering or suspension application includes a cap-like housing (42) in which is captured the articulating ball portion (32) of a stud (30). A shank (34) extends from the ball portion (32), outwardly from the housing cap (42), to provide a connection and anchoring interface for the suspension member (16) or other anchoring component. The connection interface with the anchoring suspension member (16) is characterized by a specially designed surface which is convenient to machine, provides increased surface-to-surface contact area, and provides additional advantages such as improved stress distribution and NVH benefits. A washer-like cone adaptor (54) mates with a specially formed adaptor interface region (48) on the stud (30). On its outer surface, the adaptor (54) has a broad tapering feature (56) designed to seat in a complementary-shaped receiving flare (58) in the anchoring suspension member (16).

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved carrying case which is capable of storing a pad of fresh writing paper, wherein the pad of paper may be stored in a pocket that will enclose the pad and protect it from being exposed to the outside elements. The carrying case of the present invention provides the benefits that the notepad is easily accessible to the user, without having to open the case to expose the papers contained within the interior of the case. Thus, the user may write upon a fresh pad of paper without opening the interior of the carrying case. Further, the carrying case is sturdy enough so that the user can have a sufficiently stable surface to write upon the notepad without removing the notepad from its pocket.