Circular Work Engageable Patents (Class 24/339)
  • Patent number: 7318567
    Abstract: A cable management device includes a clamping mechanism (110) suitable for attachment to a surface. The clamping mechanism comprises an annular portion (111) having an outside surface (114), an inside surface (115) that forms a perimeter of a cavity (118) interior to the annular portion, a first terminus (116), and a second terminus (117) disposed opposite the first terminus. The first terminus and the second terminus define a gap (151) between them. In one embodiment, the cable management device further comprises a membrane (120, 220) attached to the clamping mechanism at the inside surface, where the membrane contains a first opening (121). In the same or another embodiment, the cable management device further comprises a slot (140) in the annular portion of the clamping mechanism. Both the membrane and the slot enhance the cable management features of the cable management device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Mori, John Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 7225507
    Abstract: The invention comprises a clip device that will separately hold each of a pair of clothing items, one to each side of the unit, during a mechanical laundry activity or while in storage. The purpose of the product is to prevent loss of either of a pair of small clothing items such as a mated pair of socks. The clip device has a left and a right separately hinged top section, with the hinges near the middle, which permits each top section to be separately raised for the placing of the clothing item. Each top section then is snapped closed using a separate lock and release mechanism on each side. Each side of the clip device has cone shaped grippers protruding in an alternating pattern from both the top and bottom sections to hold the item securely during the mechanical washing and drying of socks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventors: Carroll L. Anderson, Neeta Shahapeti
  • Patent number: 7191989
    Abstract: A holder for storing ribbed vacuum cleaner hoses that includes a pair of support members mounted on a support, each support member having one or more ribs to engage the ribbed surface of the hose. The ribs include a lip that prevents displacement of the hose away from the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Robert C. Berfield
  • Patent number: 7134433
    Abstract: Here is disclosed a snorkel clip comprising a first clip member attached to a strap of a face mask for swimming or diving and a second clip member to which a breathing conduit of the snorkel is attached. The first clip member has a guide enabling the second clip member coupled to the first clip member to be moved in a longitudinal direction of the strap. The first and second clip members are formed with stopper means adapted to retain the second clip member at a desired position in the guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Tabata Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiromasa Sato
  • Patent number: 7100323
    Abstract: A lightweight holding device for releasably attaching a chemiluminescent light stick to a fishing float is disclosed. The device includes a first side for releasably attaching to the fishing float, and a second side for releasably holding a chemiluminescent light stick. The first side typically includes two pairs of gripping arms, one at the top and one at the bottom, which are able to releasably receive a portion of the fishing float. The second side typically includes two pedestals, one at the top and one at the bottom, each of which are able to releasably receive an end of the light stick. The top pedestal typically defines a ceiling pocket, and the bottom pedestal a floor pocket, for one of the ends of the light stick to fit into. The first and second sides are typically integrally formed and oriented to face away from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Ricardo D. Bogess
  • Patent number: 6971434
    Abstract: A non-pull cord operated Venetian blind includes a blind embodiment having left/right retaining cords led through both lateral sides thereof and fixed to a windowsill at the bottom ends thereof, and a pair of clamps securely sealed at both ends of a lower beam to clamp tight the retaining cords thereby. The clamp is made up of a movable plate and a fixed plate with a spring element attached there-between. A serrated retaining section and a serrated fixing section are disposed at the corresponding inner side of the movable plate and the fixed plate thereof respectively, tightly engaged via the spring element for holding the left/right retaining cords therein in clamping location, and a step-wise coupling section is disposed at the outer side of the fixed plate thereon to securely fix the clamps thereof onto both ends of the lower beam thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Leslie Nien
  • Patent number: 6783520
    Abstract: This invention utilizes a connector holding device to prevent the accidental disconnection of the two halves of a connection device for a fluid connector system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Fresenius USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Adolfo M. Candray, Conor Curtin, Steven L. Hull
  • Patent number: 6746081
    Abstract: An anatomically deformable support and, in particular, a lordosis support, is provided for use with seats, couches or the like. The anatomically deformable support includes a frame, and an anatomically deformable supporting part connected to the frame and that can be arched in the reversible manner. The supporting part is connected to the frame by a connection arrangement including elongates cylindrical members, for example, wires, secured to the frame and first and second mounting arrangements provided at first and second end portions of the supporting part for securing the elongate cylindrical members to the supporting part. At least one of the mounting arrangements includes a first common rigid web member, and a pair of elastically flexible web members arranged on opposing sides of the rigid web member to form first mountings in which the elongate cylindrical members are received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Schukra Berndorf Ges. m.b.H.
    Inventor: Knud Klingler
  • Patent number: 6691382
    Abstract: A retainer injection-molded from tough plastics for securing two wire meshed/grilled members together, for enabling the two secured members to be turned relative to each other between the operative position and the collapsed position. The retainer has two transverse through holes arranged in parallel, and two peripheral gaps through which the respective wire rods of the first and second wire meshed/grilled members are respectively set into the transverse through holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Lien-Cheng Su
  • Patent number: 6663069
    Abstract: A flexible molded hanger for removable placement on the top of masonry walls to support Christmas lights and other displays. The hanger is bowed to facilitate placement and provided with a central pediment to receive a stabilizing member. Retention chips are formed on the hanger at spaced locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: John Norberg
  • Patent number: 6643900
    Abstract: A quick-fixing element for fastening guide rails on lattice-like lateral parts includes an upper holding section which reaches at least partially around a first rod of a lateral part, and a lower holding section which reaches at least partially around a second rod of the lateral part which extends essentially parallel to the first rod. A nose is provided between the upper and the lower holding section, which nose rests on the second lower rod or rods of the lateral part. The quick-fixing element is held securely on the lateral part and can also be used for different lattice types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Paul Hettich GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Peter Jährling
  • Patent number: 6594866
    Abstract: A wrist corsage includes a flower corsage mounted on a wrist corsage holder. The holder includes an open bracelet and clamp design to secure the flower corsage to the bracelet. Preferably, the bracelet has a unitary construction, made of a molded plastic. The flower corsage is pressed into the clamp to attach it thereby, and the bracelet with attached corsage is then worn on the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Leslie K. Croyle
  • Patent number: 6553634
    Abstract: A clamp includes a holding section for receiving an elongated member, a mounting section to be attached to a mounting object, and an elastic ring elastically deformed by the elongated member. The elastic ring is disposed between upper engagement portions formed at both sides of the holding section through lower engagement portions formed at positions closer to a bottom portion of the holding recess section. The ring constituting portions inside the holding recess section are bent in advance toward the bottom portion of the holding recess section. When the elongated member is inserted into the holding section, the ring constituting portions situated inside the holding section closely contact the peripheral surface of the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: NIFCO Inc.
    Inventor: Atsushi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 6543100
    Abstract: A test tube retention system for facilitating an efficient and sterile lumbar puncture procedure. The test tube retention system includes a retainer structure having a first clip member, a second clip member, a third clip member and a fourth clip member connected to one another in a straight manner. Each clip member has a front opening formed for receiving and releasing a test tube. A plurality of upper cross members 50 and a plurality of lower cross members preferably extending between each of the clip members. A flange member preferably extends about the outer portion of the clip members for increasing the rigidity of the clip members with respect to one another. The flange member includes four front angled openings that correspond to each of the front openings within the clip members. The clip members preferably each have a tubular structure formed for snugly receiving the test tubes in a parallel manner to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventors: Christopher J. Finley, Armida E. Nunez-Finley
  • Patent number: 6523231
    Abstract: A clip for retaining a power or extension cords for transport and to prevent damage to the cord. The clip has two sleeves (32, 34) that are created when an upper (12) and lower (14) member are coupled together by a spring clip (18). One sleeve (34) is closed and the other sleeve (32) has an opening for insertion of a power cord. A lever (16) is formed in the upper member (12) to allow for opening of the open end of the clip for the insertion of a cord. Within the closed sleeve (34) is a retaining mechanism that aids in the retention and positioning of a power cord. Integrally molded with the open sleeve (32) may be ribs (42, 44) that increase the frictional engagement between the clip and the cord. The clip can be constructed in one or two pieces and can be used with a variety of different tools and applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Jerry E. Lassiter
  • Patent number: 6497010
    Abstract: A spring band clamp block formed of a plurality of spring band clamps (1), each of which has a spring band (2) and two projecting tensioning ends (3, 4), and which are detachably joined to one another by means of a fastener. The spring band clamp block can be built especially easily for all types of spring band clamps (1) by the spring band clamps (1) being joined to one another, preferably, by means of at least two adhesive strips (5, 6). The adhesive strips (5, 6) are arranged on the spring bands (2), parallel to the lengthwise axis (7) of the spring band clamps (1), and preferably in the vicinity of the projecting tensioning ends (3, 4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Muhr und Bender KG
    Inventors: Stefan Klör, Hans Neukirch
  • Patent number: 6490768
    Abstract: A towel fastener for a lounge chair for holding beach towels, in particular, firmly in place upon lounge chairs. The towel fastener for a lounge chair includes a clip support member being adapted to be mounted about a portion of a lounge chair and having a main tubular portion and a handle portion extending outwardly from the main tubular portion; and also includes a clip member being pivotally attached to the clip support member and having an curved fastening portion which is pivotally disposed about the main tubular portion and also having a handle portion; and further includes a biasing assembly being connected to the clip support member and to the clip member for biasing the curved fastening portion of the clip member upon the tubular portion of the clip support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Robert M. Goodall
  • Patent number: 6430782
    Abstract: A lighter clip for use with a cigarette pack is inexpensively manufactured from a material such as injection-molded plastic. A generally three-sided clip is sized and shaped to fit across the width and depth of the pack, and contains an arcuate portion, suitable for holding a lighter, on one end. The clip is manufactured from a resilient material, and shaped in a manner that causes it to be lightly biased against the pack, thereby holding the clip in position. The two longer clip arms are sized to have a large enough surface area to be suitable for promotional use, and the clip arms and ends are shaped to securely grip the cigarette pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventors: David Torres, Martin Moberly
  • Patent number: 6405414
    Abstract: The clip of the present invention is a one-piece plastic clip having a plurality of substantially “C” shaped socket members, for example two, wherein the interior surface is not smooth. Rather, the interior is designed to enhance the grip on the protective tube. In one preferred embodiment, the interior surface has a plurality of spaced projections extending therefrom. Other textured surfaces can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Contech Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond A. Byrnes, Robert A. DiPetrillo
  • Patent number: 6390512
    Abstract: A retainer clip for holding a gasket between the ends of two coupling components includes a first resilient annular member extending circumferentially about two-thirds of a circle, a second resilient annular member having circumferential ends and a discontinuity between the ends, and a bridge connecting the first and second resilient annular members. The bridge has a circumferential extent of less than 45°, and the first resilient annular member is circumferentially expandable without causing the second resilient annular member to expand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: General Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin Corbett
  • Patent number: 6378175
    Abstract: A resilient fastening clip (10) for attaching a plant member (22) to a portion of a support structure includes a clip wall (24) that creates a first enclosure (12) and a second enclosure (14) which are integrally fashioned from the clip wall (24). The first enclosure (12) has a first enclosure entry mouth (16), and the second enclosure (14) has a second enclosure entry mouth (18). The first enclosure entry mouth (16) may lie either within the second enclosure (14), or may be external to it. A flexible arm (34) is optionally provided to help capture the support wire (20). The clip (10) may also have a number of gripper protrusions (46) which prevent rotation of the plant member (22) within the second enclosure (14). An alternative preferred embodiment of a resilient clip (110) has a transverse wire channel (58) formed in the first enclosure region (12), into which a support wire (20) may be inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Doorframer, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald D. Vanderpan
  • Patent number: 6370740
    Abstract: A clamp for cylindrical objects uses a plurality of split-rings, each of which has a first half-ring and a second half-ring. Each first half-ring is hingedly coupled to a corresponding second half-ring at a hinge point. Means, coupled to each first half-ring at a distance from the hinge point, are coupled to a control assembly. The control assembly is operated to apply one of a pulling force to each first half-ring to simultaneously open each of the split-rings, or a pushing force to each first half-ring to simultaneously close each of the split-rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Carl R. Foreman
  • Patent number: 6367118
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner hose clip is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner hose clip includes a first curvilinear arm adapted to wrap partially around a portion of a vacuum cleaner hose, and a second curvilinear arm adapted to wrap completely around a second portion of a vacuum cleaner hose to hold the vacuum cleaner hose portions together. The clip further includes a locking mechanism to secure the second curvilinear arm in position around the vacuum hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Shop Vac Corporation
    Inventor: Robert C. Berfield
  • Patent number: 6361006
    Abstract: A retaining means for evaporative cooler pads comprising a clip wherein the clip is resiliently deformable to enable fitment between a pair of evaporative cooler pads and wherein the evaporative cooler pads are retained in position upon release of the deforming force from the clip. The clip provides support and adjustment to evaporative pads in a single component which is easily installed and adjusted. The clips are always retained on a post inside the cooler, and thereby cannot be lost while servicing the cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: F. F. Seeley Nominess Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Allan Kenneth Wallace
  • Publication number: 20010044990
    Abstract: A reclosable fastener assembly includes first and second elongated closure elements that are engageable to form a seal. A slider is slidable relative to the closure elements between an open position and a closed position and is adapted (i) to engage the closure elements to one another when moved across the closure elements toward the closed position and (ii) to disengage the closure elements from one another when moved across the closure elements toward the open position. The slider carries a first partial indicator. A second partial indicator is located relative to the closure elements so as to complement the first partial indicator to form a visual indicator when the slider is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 1999
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: ROBERT TURVEY, DOUGLAS SOLLER, JEFFREY CHRISTIANSON, DOUGLAS GUNDLACH
  • Patent number: 6298525
    Abstract: A flexible double clip for use in creating arrays of generally cylindrical objects is disclosed, the clip consisting of flexible and resilient materials, the clip having sufficient flexibility to allow individual cylindrical objects, by expansion and twisting of the clip, to rotate in relation to each other about the axis of the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Zender Margo
  • Patent number: 6224025
    Abstract: An arcuate molded flexible plastic pipe saddle for supporting an insulated pipe secured to a surface having a pair of flexible hinge-like joints molded integrally therewith for accommodating insulated pipes of varying overall diameters, and having stiffening ribs molded similarly for strengthening the saddle under load, and means molded integrally with the saddle at the external central underside thereof for attachment of the saddle to a support means. Typical support means may be a U-shaped pipe-supporting member, such as a clevis hanger, for use with a clip-in fixture or a support channel for use with a drop-in twist-and-lock fixture for holding the saddle and adjustable means for securing said U-shaped pipe-supporting member to an overhead surface. The support channel may be used for overhead or underfoot surfaces. For vertical surfaces, a hanging J-shaped wall support member in conjunction with the clip-in version is indicated. Methods of installation are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Luis Jullian Alvarez
  • Patent number: 6190249
    Abstract: A weasand clip used to close the weasand (oesophagus) of slaughtered animals has a leading edge with a sharply configured knife edge for breaking the sinews and membranes along the exterior length of the weasand in a single stroke of the rodder used to push the closed clip along the weasand to a sealed position protecting against leakage of ingesta into the weasand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Ralph K. Karubian
  • Patent number: 6175082
    Abstract: A device for controlling the movement of an electrical cord which connects a computer mouse to a computer. The device is made of a shackle made of a partially cylindrical body having flared lips which extend along the shackle body and a mounting structure attached to the shackle. The device shackle attaches to a mouse cord and the device mounting structure is attachable to stationary objects such as mouse pads or desk tops. The device limits the movement of a computer mouse cord to a length necessary to operate a computer mouse while restraining the remaining mouse cord length by allowing the length of mouse cord between the mouse and the shackle to be moved while the length of cord between the shackle and the computer is held stationary by the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventors: Robert C. Klinger, Troy E. Bergstrom
  • Patent number: 6164605
    Abstract: A band clamp for capturing a tubular member, e.g., brake line of a motor vehicle, is presented, wherein the band clamp is adapted to be mounted around an annular object, e.g., an axle assembly of the motor vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp comprises an open-ended substantially annular band having first and second opposed primary interlockable members disposed at the open ends thereof. The clamp further includes first and second cooperating, opposed secondary interlockable members disposed within the annular band between the open ends. The first and second secondary interlockable members provide complementary engaging surfaces extending a predetermined distance from the annular band for securing the tubular member to the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald A. Drake, Nickolas J Ristich
  • Patent number: 6158095
    Abstract: A clip for retaining power or extension cords for transport and to prevent damage to the cord. The cord has two sleeves that are created when an upper and a lower member are fastened together or formed in a body member. One sleeve is closed and the other has an opening for the insertion of a power cord. A lever is attached at the top of the clip to aid in the opening of the open end of the clip for the insertion of a cord. Within the closed sleeve is a retaining mechanism that aids in the retention and positioning of a power cord. Integrally molded within the open sleeve may be ribs that increase the frictional engagement between the clip and the cord. The clip can be constructed in one or two pieces and can be used with a variety of different tools and applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Jerry Lassiter
  • Patent number: 6158700
    Abstract: A supporting frame of light string includes a pair of arch bars spaced from each other and a plurality of cross bars extending between the arch bars to fix the arch bars together. A light string is attached to the bars by means of wire clips and lamp clips. Each wire clip includes a resilient C-shaped member through which the wires extend. The wire clip defines a side opening for forcibly fitting the wire clip over one of the bars thereby securely attaching the wires to the bar. Preferably, an axially-extending groove is defined in the wire clip for accommodating the wires. Each lamp clip includes a resilient C-shaped member defining an axially-extending opening for fitting the lamp clip over one of the bars. An axially-extending groove is defined in a side wall of the lamp clip for accommodating a first section of the wires and a circumferentially-extending slit is defined in the side wall of the wire clip through which a second section of the wires extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Whiter Shieh
  • Patent number: 6148488
    Abstract: A clip for the purpose of fastening plastic, tarpaulins, fabric or other flexible-sheet goods to any kind of structure, appurtenance to a structure or vehicle or other construct or object, where the framing of such structure, appurtenance, or object consists of pipe, rod, or other tubular component which is most commonly round in cross-section and of metal or plastic, but other configurations and compositions are also possible. The clip allows a firm and solid connection of the flexible-sheet goods to the tubular components, in a manner which does not damage the flexible-sheet goods, and is removable and reusable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Rick Alan Gristock
  • Patent number: 6141838
    Abstract: A cosmetic accessory clasp includes two or more clips for holding longitudinally extending articles. For example, the clasp accommodates both a lipstick barrel and a lip liner pencil. The clasp includes two or more open clips, such as an open clip having attached at the closed portion thereof a smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The larger lipstick barrel is inserted by the spring action of the larger clip and the lip liner pencil is insertable in the smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The clasp may hold other related longitudinally extending articles, such as eyebrow pencils and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Gary Cooper
  • Patent number: 6128843
    Abstract: A universal two-piece label holder system for hooks of various sizes and configurations, including single and double rod or U-shaped loop hooks, comprises a versatile ring-shaped saddle having a plurality of peripherally spaced clasps of different dimensions, at least one of which will grippingly engage a single rod hook, with an adjacent clasp slidingly engaging the second rod of a double rod or loop hook at a selected position along the length of the hook. An elongated plastic tag or overlay, preferably having a label holder at its distal end, is adapted to overlie the hook, with side edge portions of the tag engaged by flanges on the saddle and a selected one of a plurality of spaced openings along the intermediate portion of the tag engaged over a projection on the saddle to thereby limit movement of the tag relative to the saddle both laterally and longitudinally and to arcuately flex the tag to rigidify the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Fast Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: John Gebka
  • Patent number: 6105218
    Abstract: A fastener comprising first and second separable members, for engaging an elongate element. Each member includes first and second complementary shaped partial-cylindrical portions formed on a facing side thereof. The first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the first member have outside dimensions that are complementarily dimensioned with respect to the inside dimensions of the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the second member, so that the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the first member selectively engage and nest within the first and second partial-cylindrical portions of the second member when the facing side of the first and second members are positioned towards each other. The elongate element is engaged between the first and second members of the fastener by an engagement area formed when one of the first and second partial-cylindrical portions are nested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: George Reekie
  • Patent number: 6096009
    Abstract: Locking device that is mounted on an endoscope or the like for selectively securing the position of a guide wire and/or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like. The locking device preferably includes a side wall with an opening therein for receiving the proximal end of a guide wire or catheter. The opening is preferably J-shaped or boot shaped, and has an entry end and a locking end. Once a guide wire or catheter is in a desired position within a body cavity, the portion of the guide wire or catheter that extends outside of the endoscope or the like may be moved into the opening. More particularly, a portion of the guide wire or catheter may be inserted by an operator through the entry end of the opening and into the locking end, wherein the locking end frictionally secures the position of the guide wire or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Jim Windheuser, Jim Yearick, Oscar Carrillo, Gary McAlister, John Holmes, Paul Norton
  • Patent number: 6061880
    Abstract: A fastener is provided for securing one or more water supply lines to a pipe, such as a drain or vent pipe. The fastener includes a first resilient clamping element for engaging the pipe and a second resilient clamping element for engaging the water line. The second resilient clamping elements may be unitary with the first resilient clamping elements or selectively connected together by means of a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Plastic Productions A LLC
    Inventor: Ralph B. Senninger
  • Patent number: 6044530
    Abstract: A clip and collected assembly thereof are provided and including a method of forming the clip and clip assembly. The clip is formed with at least one slot that has at least one projection for keeping a resilient cord press fit in the slot therein against forces tending to shift it out therefrom. Preferably, two parallel slots are provided for receiving two cords therein with there being two opposing projections extending into the slot opening from either side of the slot. The slot projections provide an attendant manufacturing benefit as the punches of the die press apparatus that punch slugs from the blank fed thereto will not suffer from slug pulling problems because of the presence of corresponding projections extending into the die cavity openings from either side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Stanley Fastening Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: David Room, Matthew Graszer, Paul Lackler
  • Patent number: 5988575
    Abstract: The Aerosol Spray Can Tool is a device that holds and stores certain accessories and vital parts of the common aerosol spray can. It is a flexible bracelet that snaps around the can and it has holes thru it, slots, clips and a suitcase. The holes hold the spray straw, the slots hold the spray straw and the clip holds the spray straw. The suitcase molded or machined with the bracelet stores the spray nozzle. A very long straw is laced thru two or more holes to store the long straw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph John Lesko
  • Patent number: 5979110
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant clip, and more particularly to a plant clip having a pair of mutually opposed arcuate plates, a band transversely and securely connected with each one of the arcuate plates, two reinforced ribs respectively formed on distal ends of the band and a pair of side wings integrally and respectively formed on distal ends of the respective reinforced ribs. A space is defined between an outer periphery of the arcuate plate and an inner face of the side wing. Therefore, a peduncle of a plant and a stick for providing support to the peduncle are able to be securely held by the plant clip via a space between the two arcuate plates and the space between the outer periphery of the arcuate plate and the inner face of the side wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Yu-Lin Tai
  • Patent number: 5979023
    Abstract: A connecting element (1) is provided for attaching drink crates (10), packing pockets or other containers to each other or to a bicycle luggage carrier (12) or similar mounting rod (11). In order to connect two objects securely and firmly to each other for transport using a connecting element (1) of this type, and yet also when necessary to be able to detach them again easily, the hook-shaped connecting element (1) is constructed to have its essentially S-shaped and opposingly directed hook parts (2, 3) as flat hooks having a flat longitudinal extension transverse to the hook plane, wherein the hook parts (2, 3) grip around the respectively fastened object (10) in a form-fit manner shaped to a securing region on the object, and wherein a securing device is provided which closes the opening of the hook parts to a great extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Uwe Nutto
  • Patent number: 5957352
    Abstract: A tool holding device designed to be attached to a wheelbarrow contains at least two identical supports attachable to side of a body of a wheelbarrow, each of the supports containing at least one retaining cavity in the form of a U, with interior dimensions larger than the width of the handle of a tool to be held, and which opening is of a width less than the diameter of the handle so that the introduction of the handle into the cavity is achieved by forcing the distortion of a part of the support at the level of the opening, the bottom of the cavity containing an elastic member for repelling the handle towards the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Gares
  • Patent number: 5954308
    Abstract: A clamp for securing a vertically disposed elongated antenna to the horizontal edge of a volleyball net has a base wall and an oppositely disposed spaced clamping wall secured together at adjacent edges by a U-shaped live hinged portion. The clamping wall extends in a tapered direction towards the base wall to define a narrowed net receiving access lot opposite to the live hinge portion. A vertically disposed shoulder extends outwardly from an outer surface of the base wall, and a vertical bore is located in the shoulder to receive an end of an elongated antenna. The clamp members are comprised of a single piece of plastic material. An elongated lift member is on an elongated horizontal free edge of the clamping wall and extends outwardly from the access slot. A plurality of serrations are formed on an inner surface of the base wall opposite to the clamping wall. The shoulder on said base wall has a vertical length greater than the vertical height of the base wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: American Sports International, LTD
    Inventors: Mark R. Lane, Neal C. Squibb, Leslie M. Arp
  • Patent number: 5937488
    Abstract: A unitary clamp is provided for securing a brakeline to the axle of a vehicle. The clamp includes a first clamping structure that clamps around the axle and a second clamping structure that clamps around the brakeline. Both clamping structures are independently operated so that the clamp can first be secured to the brakeline and thereafter to the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Tyton Hellerman Corporation
    Inventor: Gerard G Geiger
  • Patent number: 5896720
    Abstract: A clip bar for supporting, fixing or stabilizing air hoses, water hoses, electrical cords, safety ropes, cables, etc. on a shingled or unshingled, pitched roof of a building or house. The clip bar has a substantially flat element with a pair of spaced, U-shaped spring clips attached thereto. One or more of the clip bars can be secured to the roof by a nail or nails and support, fix or stabilize hoses, cords, ropes and/or cables thereto, thus, preventing these elements and any attachments thereto from sliding down and off the roof as well as preventing them from interfering with workers or roofers working on the pitched or inclined roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: William R Bond
  • Patent number: 5884372
    Abstract: A clip, for example attachable to both a refreshment tube of a reservoir-based hydration system and to, for example, an article of clothing. The tube clip includes a tube attachment section to attach the tube clip to the refreshment tube, and a clip section and locking arm to releasably attach the tube clip to the article of clothing. A person engaged in an activity may thus affix the refreshment tube to a location on clothing by engaging the locking area while a portion of the clothing fabric is within a clipping area. The location of attachment on clothing can be selected to provide easy, quick, or "no-hands" access to the refreshment tube. The clip may be formed from molded plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: National Molding Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Anscher, Gary Fraze
  • Patent number: 5836055
    Abstract: A cosmetic accessory clasp includes two or more clips for holding longitudinally extending articles. For example, the clasp accommodates both a lipstick barrel and a lip liner pencil. The clasp includes two or more open clips, such as an open clip having attached at the closed portion thereof a smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The larger lipstick barrel is inserted by the spring action of the larger clip and the lip liner pencil is insertable in the smaller clip adjacent to the larger clip. The clasp may hold other related longitudinally extending articles, such as eyebrow pencils and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Gary Cooper
  • Patent number: 5782236
    Abstract: A retaining clamp device holds a tubular air fitting to an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy, e.g., disposed on the neck of the patient. A C-shaped clamp member is formed of a resilient semi-rigid plastic and has an inside diameter that fits snugly over the air fitting, with one or more legs connected to the C-shaped clamp member. The legs have slots at their free ends to fasten the clamp member to said to the flange of the endotracheal tube assembly, e.g., using the Velcro strips that hold the flange to a neck collar. The legs can include left and right leg members that extend from opposite sides of the C-shaped clamp member. The attendant or patient can snap the C-shaped member on or off the fitting of a ventilator tube, moving the C-shaped member to the side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Steven M. Ess
  • Patent number: 5769491
    Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a back rest with lordosis support comprised of a bendable supporting element mounted on a wire grating by means of clamps carried by the supporting element. Each clamp forms a slot having a central tongue dividing the slot into first and second compartments for receiving first and second wires, respectively, of the grating. The combined widths of mouths of the two compartments is less than the combined diameters of the two wires so that the two wires cannot be inserted or removed simultaneously. The tongue is flexible to enable the two wires to be inserted or removed sequentially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Jorg Schwarzbich