Channel And Inserted Bar Patents (Class 24/460)
  • Patent number: 11473362
    Abstract: A board apparatus is presented. The board apparatus includes an elongate body having an upper groove and a back portion lip, a removable elongate member configured for placement within the upper groove, and a screen. The screen includes a lower end configured to fit in the upper groove and below the back portion lip. The apparatus is useful for providing easy installation and removal of windows and screens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Inventor: Randy Caulder
  • Patent number: 11359651
    Abstract: A flow modification device connectable to a generally cylindrical element adapted for immersion in a fluid medium is provided. The device comprises an elongate body having a length and a generally circular cross-section; a plurality of raised body portions disposed about and extending along the length of the elongate body, the raised body portions having a height between 2% and 10% of a diameter of the body; and an aperture extending through the length of the elongate body, the aperture being adapted to receive the generally cylindrical element such that the flow modification device is arranged about the cylindrical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: AMOG Technologies Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Andrew Elmhirst Potts, Hayden Marcollo
  • Patent number: 11272779
    Abstract: A mount for coupling to an article of wear comprises a back plate configured to engage a front plate over the article of wear. The back plate comprises a first structure and a second structure. The front plate comprises a base configured to receive an accessory, a slide slidably engaged with the base, and a swing rotatably engaged with the base. The base comprises a third structure and a first latch feature. The slide comprises a fourth structure and a first coupler. The swing comprises a second coupler and a second latch feature. The slide is configured to move to engage the third structure with the first structure and the fourth structure with the second structure. The swing is configured to rotate to engage the first coupler with the second coupler and the first latch feature with the second latch feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Axon Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Grinnell
  • Patent number: 11178939
    Abstract: A mount secures an object to sheets of material with one or more material thicknesses. The mount includes an inner plate and an outer plate. The outer plate includes a coupler for the object and one or more contact surfaces associated with one or more material thicknesses. The inner plate includes a retention structure to engage a contact surface of the outer plate. A mounting system includes a mount and a coupler integrated with the object to be secured to a sheet of material. The object may be a camera and the mount may be a camera mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: Axon Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Grinnell
  • Patent number: 10285516
    Abstract: A communicating board includes: a display medium including a sheet of fabric, the sheet of fabric comprising, on at least one surface, loops intended to cooperate with a gripping strip provided with hooks; at least one first gripping strip provided with hooks enabling to hold in position the display medium, and at least one substantially rectilinear profile including a first planar connecting surface having the at least one first gripping strip provided with hooks positioned thereon. The first planar connecting surface is inclined towards a rear surface of the display medium when the latter cooperates with the at least one first gripping strip provided with hooks, the first planar connecting surface forming with a visible planar surface of the display medium an angle greater than 30°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Prismaflex International
    Inventors: Pierre-Henry Bassouls, Jean-Philippe Delmotte, Eric Bihr
  • Patent number: 10225936
    Abstract: A flexible display device may include a display unit, and a support mechanism. The support mechanism may include multiple supporting units arranged at intervals in a direction of a side edge of the display unit and fixed to a second surface, and a movable unit. The supporting units respectively define holes that have openings facing toward each other and communicating with each other. The movable unit passes through the holes and is movable relative to the supporting units. The shape is changed by adjusting a position relationship between the movable unit and the supporting units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: SHENZHEN ROYOLE TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Songling Yang, Zihong Liu
  • Patent number: 9032593
    Abstract: A fastening or mounting apparatus for releasably joining two objects is disclosed. The apparatus uses a cam portion opposite a hook portion in a structure of one of the objects to engage with flanges, protrusions or ends of the other object. In the case of flanges, one of the flanges deforms a resilient element in the hook portion during insertion, and the other flange snaps into the detent of the cam portion upon application of force. The apparatus may be adaptable from small scale applications to large-scale heavy duty applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: RayoMar Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Rayos
  • Publication number: 20140325803
    Abstract: A webbing mounting assembly is configured to secure an article to a webbing of a structure. The assembly may include a securing platform configured to securely retain the article, and a base connected to the securing platform. The base may include at least a first axis and a second axis that differs from the first axis, at least a first set of webbing retainers aligned with the first axis, and at least a second set of webbing retainers aligned with the second axis. The first set of webbing retainers and the second set of webbing retainers are configured to secure the article to the webbing in different orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Christopher A.J. Iannello, Martin J. Nilsen
  • Publication number: 20140183925
    Abstract: A trim cover closeout system for securing adjoining trim cover portions on a vehicle component such as a seat at an opening between the trim cover portions, the system includes first and second trim edge attachment elements each having a mounting surface adapted to be secured to the edge of one of the trim cover portions and it an attachment portion including an outwardly protruding surface, and any longer closure element configured to extend over substantially the entire length of the opening, wherein the closure element may be slidably positioned over the attachment elements to secure the first and second attachment elements and, thereby, the edges of the adjoining trim cover portions to each other to close the opening. A vehicle seat assembly including the trim cover closeout system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: James CLAUSER, William PARUSZKIEWICZ, Paul S. Severinski, Thomas A. Welch, SR.
  • Patent number: 8631550
    Abstract: An impact tool for removal and attachment of a mower blade cutting edge insert of the type demountably attached with a press fit wedging connection in a recessed end surface of the mower blade, the tool body having a U-shaped slot permitting the slot to receive and straddle adjacent edges of the mower blade and the insert when the latter is in the recessed end surface portion, sliding movement of the tool along the edges causes a contacting abutment in the bottom of the U-shaped slot to engage one or the other ends of the edge insert to drive the insert into or detach it from an operative press fit attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventors: Randolph J. Janikowski, Paul E. Kratzke
  • Publication number: 20130180089
    Abstract: A mounting system for photovoltaic solar panels providing support for different sized panels, and/or panels having mounting holes located in different locations. A universal panel clamp includes at least one elongated hole or slot to attach to a mounting hole on a solar panel frame. A clamp is attached to an upper hole, and a second clamp is attached to a lower mounting hole. The upper clamps are attached to an upper lateral support member, and the lower clamps are attached to a lower lateral support member. This assembly may be supported by A-shaped support members having adjustable tilt arms, or posts with specially configured brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Martin Seery, Robert H.J. Miros
  • Patent number: 8341810
    Abstract: A fastening or mounting apparatus for releasably joining two objects is disclosed. The apparatus has a first component and a second component. The first component may include a plate, two side walls and two flanges extending from the side walls. The second component may include a plate, a first lip and a second lip. The first lip has a cavity holding a resilient element. The second lip may have a convex portion and at least partially define a detent. One of the flanges engages with the resilient element in the cavity while the two components are non-parallel. The first flange compresses the resilient element while the second flange contacts the convex portion. The resilient element biases the second flange against the detent once the two components are parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: RayoMar Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Rayos
  • Patent number: 8196338
    Abstract: Fishing line stops are disclosed. Fishing line stops illustratively include a lid and a main body. The lid has inner and outer walls. The lid outer wall forms a portion of an outer surface of the fishing line stop. The lid inner wall has first and second surfaces. The lid inner wall first and second surfaces are separated from each other by a lid offset that runs perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis. The main body has inner and outer walls. The main body inner wall forms another portion of the outer surface of the fishing line stop. The main body inner wall has first and second surfaces. The main body inner wall first and second surfaces are separated from each other by a main body offset that runs perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Patrick J. Kavanaugh
  • Patent number: 8113559
    Abstract: A device for attachment to sheet material such as a tarpaulin, pool cover or bag includes an elongated bar having first and second raised mounting surfaces as well as an open ended elongated sleeve for receiving the bar and a sheet of material positioned around the bar. The elongated sleeve also has a slit which extends from one open end of the sleeve to its other open end and which enables sheet material positioned around the bar and received in the sleeve to extend outwardly through the slit on opposite sides of the bar. The generally raised mounting surfaces are sized and configured to project outwardly from the bar through the slit when the bar is received in the sleeve so that the bar can be rigidly affixed to an object such as the side of a building, vehicle or a handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Brian H. Combes
  • Patent number: 8051867
    Abstract: A tent and method of assembling a tent is provided. The tent includes a connecting strip for connecting first and second panels of a fabric shell of the tent. The connecting strip slides axially along sides of the adjacent panels during assembly to connect them together. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting strip and sides of the connected panels utilize cooperating keder strips and keder channels to cooperatingly connect the two panels. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting strip is flexible to permit using connecting strips that are longer than the legs of the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew H. Hamilton-Jones
  • Patent number: 8028381
    Abstract: A removable load bearing textile clamp including a locking clamp portion configured to accept an internally positioned rod such that a textile sheet can be led around the rod and positioned inside the clamp and secured by closing the clamp and engaging the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Edward Murray
  • Patent number: 7805881
    Abstract: A device made of a thermoplastic material having two portions connected together with a web or hinge. A first portion forms a main body and the second portion forms a lid or cover. When the lid is aligned and closed onto the main body, the shape of the unitary device may be spherical, elliptical or another shape. The main body allows for one or more lines or strings to rest within a channel formed in the main body parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge so that when the lid is closed into the main body the strings are trapped within the channel of the main body by the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Patrick John Kavanaugh
  • Publication number: 20100242320
    Abstract: The present invention is a label tag cord used as a connector between the label tag and the product or as an independent identifier. The label tag cord includes a linearly extending and pliable cord body. At the two ends in the extending directions of the cord body, a first positioning part and a second positioning part are configured. An identifying surface is integrally formed at a preset position between the first and second positioning part and is in the form of an expanded area compared to the cord body, so that a trademark can be printed or etched on the identifying surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Ying-Che HUANG
  • Patent number: 7721396
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide fastening devices adapted to couple to rigid members and which may further include attachment features for coupling items to the rigid member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Stable Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Curtis Fleischman
  • Publication number: 20090205166
    Abstract: An invention where a removable load bearing textile clamp comprised of a locking clamp portion configured to accept an internally positioned rod such that a textile sheet can be led around the rod and positioned inside the clamp and secured by closing the clamp and engaging the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Edward Murray
  • Patent number: 7575388
    Abstract: A binder for filing tools which binds sheets having a plurality of sheet hole parts aligned in the center includes a locking bar which corresponds to a front cover wherein two front cover parts formed from flat boards of which one side of each is respectively connected to a back cover part and integrated. The back cover part includes a plurality of key-shaped locking parts erected on the front surface thereof, the key-shaped locking part is penetrated through the sheet hole parts in the sheet, a plurality of tying parts are provided in the locking bar in positions corresponding to the positions of the key-shaped locking parts, and the sheets are held between the locking bar and front cover by each tying part being locked to the key-shaped locking part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: King Jim Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Shimada, Naotoshi Toda, Tomohiro Yatabe
  • Patent number: 7552517
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for clamping a belt with a quick clamping action. The apparatus and method employ an impact force applied to a clamping device that causes a clamping portion of the clamping device to be driven into clamping engagement with the belt received in a housing for the clamping device. In one form, the clamping device has a clamp actuator that includes an impact receiving end preferably disposed outside the housing and a clamp member in the housing that is driven into clamping engagement with the belt by the actuator. The preferred belt clamp has the actuator and clamp member configured so that during belt pulling operations, the clamp also self-locks onto the belt to increase the clamping force applied thereto. In another aspect, the housing preferably has wall portions of varying thickness to provide increased strength where needed while keeping the weight thereof to a minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Flexible Steel Lacing Company
    Inventor: James Patrick McKee
  • Publication number: 20090083953
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a clamp mechanism for a backing plate disposed in a PECVD chamber, comprising an upper clamp portion fixed to an interior portion of a chamber lid, and a lower clamp portion in sliding contact with the upper clamp portion and the backing plate, wherein the lower clamp portion comprises at least one fastener disposed through the lower clamp portion and the chamber lid, the at least one fastener comprising an adjustment member, and wherein rotation of the adjustment member causes lateral movement and compression to the backing plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventors: Sam H. KIM, Beom Soo PARK, William N. STERLING
  • Patent number: 7458114
    Abstract: Clips for securing one or more accessories to a play yard or crib and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example includes a first engagement member, a second engagement member, and a first joining member joining the first and second engagement members. The first and second engagement members are joined in a spaced apart relation such that a distance between the first and second engagement members is less than a diameter of the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Damon Oliver Casati Troutman
  • Patent number: 7406753
    Abstract: A two-piece clip for tying down a sheet of material has an elongated triple tapered wedge insertable in a mating triple tapered groove. The two components bind the covering material therebetween with a tight friction fit and compress a relatively large area of material, especially plastic material with a built-in reinforcing fiber grid. The clip binds a large number of rows and columns of reinforcing elements of a plastic cover sheet in a tight friction fit therebetween for a secure grip and easy release without damaging the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick J. LaScala
  • Publication number: 20080040902
    Abstract: A two-piece clip for tying down a sheet of material comprises an elongated triple tapered wedge insertable in a mating triple tapered groove. The two components bind the covering material therebetween with a tight friction fit and compress a relatively large area of material, especially plastic material with a built-in reinforcing fiber grid. The clip binds a large number of rows and columns of reinforcing elements of a plastic cover sheet in a tight friction fit therebetween for a secure grip and easy release without damaging the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick J. LaScala
  • Patent number: 7261492
    Abstract: An anchoring method of fabric panels for flood control and water control, wherein the anchoring method comprises the steps of: attaching a plurality of anchors. Each anchor has a base, a first wall and a second wall disposed on opposite ends of the base, a chamber, and arms attached to the walls projecting away from the walls. An extension is attached to the first arm, wherein the extension projects over the chamber, then a deformable tube goes in the chamber near the first wall, a fabric panel attached to a mooring is then put in the chamber on top of the deformable tube, then inserting a chock into the chamber against the deformable tube, wherein the deformable tube is compressed, then inserting a key into the chamber between the chock and the second wall, wherein the chock engages the key and the deformable tube is uncompressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Hendee Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Hendee
  • Patent number: 7251917
    Abstract: An arrangement for securing fabric relative to a framework comprising a framework, a groove in the framework, and a locking spline for being received into the groove in the framework whereby a fabric panel can be retained relative to the framework by an insertion of the locking spline into the groove with a portion of the fabric panel disposed between the locking spline and the groove. The framework can have an obverse side, a peripheral edge, and a reverse side and the groove can be disposed to the reverse side of the framework whereby the fabric panel can be applied to the framework with a portion of the fabric panel retained within the groove and with the fabric panel reversing over the peripheral edge of the framework and traversing at least a portion of the framework. A secondary groove can enable a retention of a secondary material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Sava Cvek
  • Patent number: 7024733
    Abstract: A device for securing a towel to ground so the towel will not be blown away has a first anchor device coupled to a first end of the towel and a second anchor device coupled to a second end of the towel. The first anchor device and the second anchor device are coupled to the ground to prevent the towel from being blown away. The first anchor device and the second anchor device each comprises a body section. A first arc member is formed on a first end of the body section. The first arc member is rolled in the ground so that ground elements rest inside the first arch member such that the weight of the ground elements prevents the beach towel from being blow away. A second arc member is formed at a second end of the body section. The second arc member partially touches the body section to form an enclosed oval channel, the oval channel used for securing the towel to the body section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Donald D. Egigian
  • Patent number: 6991403
    Abstract: A system for anchoring fabric panels having an anchor housing which includes, a base, walls on the ends of the base, a chamber, and an extension attached to the first wall, wherein the extension projects over the chamber. The system includes a key disposed in the chamber of the anchor housing adjacent to a wall, wherein the key comprises a locking edge, a chock disposed in the chamber adjacent to the key, wherein the chock has a locking edge that engages the locking edge of the key, a deformable tube disposed in the chamber of the anchor housing between the first wall and the chock and beneath the extension, and wherein a space is created between the tube and the extension. A fabric panel attached to a mooring which is located in the space, and wherein the fabric panel extends from the mooring and over the extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Charles C. Hendee
  • Patent number: 6829806
    Abstract: A device for securing a towel to the ground so the towel will not be blown away by the wind is comprises a first anchor devices coupled to a first end of the towel and a second anchor device coupled to a second end of the towel. The first anchor device and the second anchor device are coupled to the ground to prevent the towel from being blown away by the wind. The first anchor device and the second anchor device each comprises a body section. A first arc member is coupled to the body section. The first arc member is rolled in the ground so that ground elements rest inside the first arch member such that the weight of the ground elements prevents the beach towel from being blow away. A second arc member is coupled to the body section for securing the towel to the body section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Donald D. Egigian
  • Patent number: 6701586
    Abstract: A sheet gripping assembly comprises an elongate member having a side defining inwardly extending wall portions defining confronting channels, and a gripping member of generally zigzag configuration manually manipulable to engage into said confronting channels to secure sheet material between the elongate members and the gripping member. The elongate member may have an elongated slot for positioning therealong a threaded fastener to secure the elongate member to a second structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: John L. Conley, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Conley, Howard L. Davis
  • Publication number: 20040040127
    Abstract: Existing hand held Quick-Grip® bar clamps that are sold on the market have a limitation in the distance away from the clamp bar that two objects can be clamped. This limitation is the distance that the Quick-Grip® bar clamp heads are located from the front of the clamp bar. This invention is designed to slide over the heads of these existing clamps and extend the distance that two objects can be clamped together away from the Quick-Grip® clamp bar. This is new in that the original function of the Quick-Grip® bar clamp remains the same with the extension arms in place or with the extension arms removed. These extension arms are easily installed by hand and removed by hand. The clamp extension arms can be used in a reverse position to be used when the Quick-Grip® bar clamp is in the spreader position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Edward Hellkamp
  • Publication number: 20040020019
    Abstract: A sheet gripping assembly comprises an elongate member having a side defining inwardly extending wall portions defining confronting channels, and a gripping member of generally zigzag configuration manually manipulable to engage into said confronting channels to secure sheet material between the elongate members and the gripping member. The elongate member may have an elongated slot for positioning therealong a threaded fastener to secure the elongate member to a second structural member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas L. Conley, Howard L. Davis
  • Patent number: 6637080
    Abstract: The present invention is a reversible single-piece flex holder for retaining a flexible sign face to a sign frame. The flex holder has a latch block and a latch blade movable toward the latch block about a hinge, for clamping the margin of a sign face. A pair of pivot lips are provided on the outside of the flex holder for engagement into a slot in a sign frame. These pivot lips are symmetrical to each other relative to a clamping axis of the flex holder, such that the flex holder is interchangeably mountable to the margin of a flexible sign face. The flex holder also has a stopper lip extending from the latch block and a stopper bulge on the latch blade. The lip and the bulge interfere with each other when the latch blade is reopened to a certain extent to prevent over-stressing the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Normand Verret
  • Patent number: 6625851
    Abstract: A separable fastening system including female component having a channel-like structure into which a male component is inserted. The female component has a lengthwise opening that can be widened for insertion of the male component and can recover to its original shape, thereby enveloping the male component and providing vertical engagement. The female component has depressions or holes on or through a surface of the female component. Protrusions from the male component engage with the depressions or holes, thereby providing engagement in a shear force direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Ray Martin, Richard John Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6560827
    Abstract: The present invention is an elastomeric sling furniture gasket including a substantially rod shaped member adapted to be longitudinally received and laterally retained in a tubing slot, a flexible but resilient gasket sheet depending substantially the length of the rod shaped member and adapted to extend out of the tubing slot, and a fabric affixing means on the gasket sheet distal to the rod shaped member adapted to rigidly secure a fabric material forming a support area for an occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Jan S. Gross
  • Patent number: 6474009
    Abstract: An apparatus for framing and hanging a sheet-like display item on a wall includes first and second generally identical elongate members, each member having a longitudinal channel for receiving an edge of the sheet-like display item therein with an internal means for captively retaining an edge of the sheet-like display item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Richard L. Hahn
  • Patent number: 6309134
    Abstract: A retainer catch assembly includes a receiver having an inner channel and an outer shell and a plurality of detents aligned on each of opposite sides of the outer shell. One or more spring clips are selectably positioned within a detent aligned on each side of the outer shell. A striker is further positioned within the inner channel so that it is removable from the inner channel under an adjustable force depending upon the relative position of the spring clip. The retainer catch assembly may be particularly suited to a vehicle center console wherein a cover is slidable with respect to a compartment and requires that the cover have an adjustable removal force depending upon the position of the cover relative to the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark S. Hann
  • Patent number: 6292987
    Abstract: A tie down device for sheet material such as tarpaulin and the like is disclosed. The device includes a bar and a sleeve. The sleeve has a slit extending from end to end thereof for receiving the bar as well as sheet material which extends around the bar and outwardly through the slit of the sleeve on opposite sides of the bar. In addition, a rope is secured to the bar which extends through the slit when the bar is received in the sleeve. The rope enables the device to be placed under tension so that the bar binds the sheet material extending around the bar against the sleeve. This binding action firmly secures the sheet material to the device and thereby prevents the sheet material from slipping out of the device between the bar and the sleeve. The device also includes means for preventing the bar from sliding out of the sleeve when the device is placed under tension. A tent pole having a tie down device attached at one end of the pole is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Brian H. Combes
  • 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: 6019549
    Abstract: Flexible elastomer wrap panels stretched and clamped encircling submerged pilings, risers and pipelines are coated to resist degradation by any form of marine life, and incorporate an interior pile-facing felt layer impregnated with a corrosion inhibiting and biocidal gel, providing long term protection for pilings and like submerged objects. The wrap panels present radial rib-strakes protruding outward from the piling and extending along the piling in a longitudinal direction, either vertically, parallel to the vertical axis of the piling or pipe, or slanting helically, reducing or eliminating aeolian vibration induced by flowing ocean currents causing vortex formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Corrosion Control International LLC
    Inventors: Russell M. Blair, C. Peter Ziehl, Anthony E J Strange, Michael F Maucieri
  • Patent number: 5979196
    Abstract: A flexible material such as garment fabric to be protected against theft is clamped into a lockable security tag. A key can be inserted into a key hole formed in the security tag for releasing the lock and to remove the tag from the garment item. The key thereby has a shape which complements a member of the cam mechanism so as to allow the cam to be operated with the key. A given decoupler is matched to a given batch of security tags, and the given decoupler is not matched to another, different batch of security tags. A certain store, therefore, has a matched decoupler for its tags while another store has a different decoupler which is matched to a different batch. The decoupler is preferably a key. The security tag is thereby provided with a number of pins or prongs which break or bend back if an incorrect key is inserted or if someone attempts to pick the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Arthur Vanmoor
  • Patent number: 5927580
    Abstract: A quick release connector system is provided for interconnecting a frequently used portable accessory item with a support body. The system utilizes a clasp having a back wall spaced apart from a stationary wall. The stationary wall includes an enlarged opening from which extends a slot. A deflectable wall overlies the enlarged opening. A connector part forms the quick release connection with the clasp. It is attached to the portable accessory item via a post with an enlarged head. The post has a diameter less than the width of the slot and the head has a diameter greater than the width of the slot, but less than the enlarged opening. When the deflectable wall is flexed away from the enlarged opening, the head of the connector part will pass through the opening and slide behind the slot as the post is moved into the slot. The enlarged head behind the slot will prevent axial disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Terence P. Ward-Llewellyn
  • Patent number: 5890238
    Abstract: The invention includes several devices for readily transferring patients from one platform to another by one attendant. A first system of horizontal transfer of patients is adapted to use existing transfer sheets and cart appropriately modified. A transfer sheet is attached to a clamping device that has a releasable catch that holds the sheet in a cavity. A plurality of straps are attached to the clamping device. The other ends of the straps are attached to reels that are part of a winch. Activation of the winch winds the straps onto the reels. The invention also includes improved bed jackets that can be attached to a winch for lifting a patient either to re-position them on a surface or to transport them. The invention also includes devices with very low friction surfaces to assist with the transfer process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Ergodyne Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas W. Votel
  • Patent number: 5752297
    Abstract: A system for securing flexible sheeting material S to a series of interconnected frame elements 60 is provided. Multiple frame elements 60 are secured together, such as through end joints 70. The frame elements 60 generally define an enclosure 80 or other structure which is to be enclosed by sheeting S. The sheeting S is then draped over the frame elements 60 until the sheeting S has the desired configuration overlying the frame elements 60. Clamps 10 are then utilized to secure the sheeting S to the frame elements 60. The clamps 10 are "C-shaped" in cross-section and are sized with an interior region 18 thereof similar to a diameter of a cylindrical surface 64 of the frame elements 60. The clamps 10 are sufficiently resilient that the clamps 10 can be flexed to allow the frame elements 60 to pass into and reside within the interior region 18 with the sheeting S interposed between the frame element 60 and the clamp 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Willard J. Ramey
  • Patent number: 5737781
    Abstract: The invention includes several novel devices for transferring patients. A first system of horizontal transfer of patients is adapted to use existing transfer sheets and cart appropriately modified. The sheet is attached to a clamping device that has a releasable catch that holds the sheet in a cavity. A plurality of straps are attached to the clamping device. The other ends of the straps are attached to reels that are part of a winch. Activation of the winch winds the straps onto the reels. Other designs of horizontal transfer devices are included within the invention. The invention also includes improved bed jackets that can be attached to, a winch for lifting a patient either to re-position them on a surface or to transport them. The invention also includes cushions and side rails with very low friction surfaces to assist with the transfer process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Ergodyne Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas W. Votel
  • Patent number: 5692272
    Abstract: The invention is a two-part clip for the purpose of securely holding fabric or sheet material without damaging said material. The clip consists of a U-shaped body with an angled cavity and a wedge which is angled to fit snugly into the cavity. An additional component of the invention is a section of rope which is passed through a hole, first in the wedge, then through a hole in the body of the clip.The fabric to be secured is inserted into the cavity on either the top or the bottom of the wedge. As tension is applied to the rope, the wedge becomes firmly seated in the cavity, thus securing the fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Lydia A. Woods
  • Patent number: 5636417
    Abstract: A curtain hook comprises a plastic strip (41) and an I-section (42, 43, 44) which is integral therewith and in which the flange (42) facing the strip is provided with at least one sawtooth profile (48), while the other flange (43) is a guide for a runner (45) which grips around it, and to which a hook-shaped element (46) is connected. The runner has at least one projection (47) which engages in the sawtooth profile (48) in order to prevent the runner from being moved in a certain direction, while movement of the runner in the opposite direction is still possible. In order to simplify sewing of the curtain hook into a curtain pleat by machine, the abovementioned other flange (43) of the I-section is narrower than a flange (42) facing the strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Inprotec International B.V.
    Inventor: Gustaaf J. Eisenkolb
  • Patent number: 5613282
    Abstract: A sealing apparatus (20) for engaging or sealing flexible material (22) comprises an elongated locking or roller member (30) and a channel-forming member or frame (40). The frame (40) has opposing cantilevered panels (42, 44) between which a channel (50) is formed, the cantilevered panels (42, 44) being resilient panels which accommodate insertion of the roller (30) into the channel (50) and withdrawal of at least a portion of the roller from the channel, whereby the flexible material (22) is engaged between the roller (30) and the frame (40) when the roller is inserted into the frame. The roller (30) is pivotally connected to the frame (40), and has a handle end (32) which protrudes past the frame (40) to facilitate withdrawal therefrom. An external surface of frame (40) has a recess which accommodates a magnet (80) fitted therein to facilitate attachment of the sealing apparatus to metallic surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventors: John A. Deddens, Sr., Charles W. Thomas