Abstract: A fixation component includes tines extending from a base portion of the fixation component. Each tine is elastically deformable between a pre-set position and an open position. Each tine includes a hook segment extending from a proximal end near the base portion to a distal end. Each tine also includes a distal segment extending from the distal end of the hook segment to a tissue-piercing tip. When positioned in the pre-set position, the hook segment extends along a pre-set curvature that encloses an angle between 135 degrees and 270 degrees, and the distal segment extends away from a longitudinal axis of the fixation component.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for manufacturing articles, such as gutter covers, from a flat feedstock are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for fabricating articles having apertures from a flat feedstock may include an uncoiler to supply a flat feedstock in roll form; a first flying press configured to receive the feedstock, wherein the first flying press houses a tool and die to form one or more apertures in the feedstock; a roll former configured to pull the feedstock from the uncoiler and through the flying press, the roll former comprising a plurality of rollers to create a desired profile along the width of the feedstock; and a flying shear to cut the feedstock to a desired length.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for fabricating articles having apertures from a flat feedstock, such as gutter covers, are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for fabricating articles having apertures from a flat feedstock includes an uncoiler for receiving and metering out a desired quantity of a flat feedstock in roll form; a feeder/straightener for receiving the feedstock from the uncoiler; a first press for receiving the feedstock from the feeder/straightener, the first press housing a tool and die that forms one or more apertures in the feedstock; a second press for receiving the feedstock from the first press, the second press housing a tool and die that cuts the feedstock into a finished length; and a roll former for receiving the feedstock from the second press, the roll former comprising a plurality of rollers that create a desired profile along the width of the feedstock.

Abstract: A gutter lip mount clip for coupling a gutter deflector to a rain gutter is provided. In one embodiment, the gutter lip mount clip includes an upper portion and a lower portion having a first end connected to the upper portion and a second end. The upper portion is adapted for coupling the clip to an underside of a deflector and includes a plurality of apertures. The apertures are adapted for accepting a fastener for coupling the clip to the deflector. The lower portion is adapted to couple the clip to a gutter lip. In another embodiment, the lower portion includes a hook shaped member that engages the clip to the gutter lip.

Abstract: A water distributor for directing water from roofing configurations that form a roof valley to rain gutters is disclosed. The device directs the water traveling down the roof valley into the rain gutters without collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function.

Abstract: A cover for a rain gutter that prevents the gutter from becoming clogged with leaves or other debris while facilitating water entry to the gutter is disclosed. Specifically, the cover comprises a flange which may be disposed beneath the shingles of a roof, an substantially vertical apertured front portion containing aperture which divert the rain water into the gutter, a trough for collecting the water which fails to enter the apertures, and a second flange for connection to the gutter.

Abstract: A water collector for directing water from roofing configurations that form an inside valley to the rain gutters is disclosed. The device collects the water without the device collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function.

Abstract: An apparatus for securing a gutter protector to a rain gutter. More particularly, the apparatus is a fastening clip that is easily applied to fasten the gutter protector to the rain gutter.

Abstract: An improved deflector assembly for a rain gutter comprising a top portion for extending from a roof line and having a distal edge located over a rain gutter; an arcuate portion, formed along the distal edge of the top portion and extending toward the rain gutter, having a curvature for carrying rain water from the top portion into the rain gutter; a bracket, attached between the top portion and the rain gutter, for supporting the top portion above the rain gutter; and the top portion having a first end and a second end each containing two attachment apertures proximate thereto, a first attachment aperture having a smaller diameter than a second attachment aperture, the top portion being attached to the bracket using the first attachment aperture. The brackets are either a gutter lip mounting bracket that supports the deflector from the gutter lip or a rear mount bracket that supports the deflector from the rear wall of the rain gutter.

Abstract: A covering and protector for a rain gutter that prevents the gutter from becoming clogged with leaves or other debris. The covering protector is designed so that leaves (for example) and other debris which may clog the gutter can neither enter the gutter nor clog the protector, the openings in the protector which permit rain to pass into the gutter being vertically disposed. A unitary sheet includes an extended flat portion which does not contain any apertures therein which functions as a closed top portion for covering the open top of the existing gutter and which also serves to interfit under and between existing roofing materials (such as roof shingles) to provide for secure fastening to the roof as well as to provide an uninterrupted smooth path for rainwater to travel off the roof. The top portion is connected to an apertured vertical portion containing a number of apertures each with a flap for directing rain into the rain gutter.

Abstract: A covering and protector for a rain gutter prevents the gutter from becoming clogged with leaves or other debris. The covering protector is designed so that leaves (for example) and other debris which may clog the gutter can neither enter the gutter nor clog the protector, the openings in the protector which permit rain to pass into the gutter being vertically disposed. A unitary sheet includes an extended flat portion which does not contain any apertures therein which functions as a closed top portion for covering the open top of the existing gutter and which also serves to interfit under and between existing roofing materials (such as roof shingles) to provide for secure fastening to the roof as well as to provide an uninterrupted smooth path for rainwater to travel off the roof. The top portion is connected to an apertured portion containing a number of apertures each with a flap for directing rain into the surface of the gutter.

Abstract: A covering and protector for a rain gutter prevents the gutter from becoming clogged with leaves or other debris. The covering protector is designed so that leaves (for example) and other debris which may clog the gutter can neither enter the gutter nor clog the protector, the openings in the protector which permit rain to pass into the gutter being vertically disposed. A unitary sheet includes an extended flat portion which does not contain any apertures therein which functions as a closed top portion for covering the open top of the existing gutter and which also serves to interfit under and between existing roofing materials (such as roof shingles) to provide for secure fastening to the roof as well as to provide an uninterrupted smooth path for rainwater to travel off the roof. The top portion is connected to an apertured portion containing a number of apertures each with a flap for directing rain into the surface of the gutter.