Clasp, Clip, Or Support-clamp Cut Or Shaped From A Single Sheet Of Resilient, Uniformly Thick, Planar Material Patents (Class 24/563)
  • Patent number: 7413153
    Abstract: A removable fastening system comprising a first flexible flat metal spiral for wrapping around a first object and a second flexible flat metal spiral for wrapping around a second object. A non-removable rotating pin engages the first flexible flat metal spiral on a first side opposite the first object, and engages the second flexible flat metal spiral on a second side opposite the second object. The second object tensions the removable fastening system while the removable fastening system is connected to the first object. The first flexible flat metal spiral dissipates a first force along a longitudinal axis of the first object, and the second flexible flat metal spiral dissipates a second force along a longitudinal axis of the second object, enabling the first flexible flat metal spiral to support the second object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: GAF Innovative Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Arnold Bennett Ghormley
  • Publication number: 20080189919
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mechanical device that can be used to help maintain a connection between an electrical tail and an electronic device such as a touch sensor screen. The mechanical device deflects upon installation over the tail and the electronic device so that pressure caused by spring action helps maintain the connection. The mechanical device also includes a cutout region designed so that the tail can freely pass through the mechanical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Keefer, Anthony F. Chernefsky, Bulent Bulat
  • Publication number: 20080155927
    Abstract: A suspended ceiling system comprising grid runners and downwardly accessible generally planar tiles mounted on the grid runners, the tiles being rectangular in plan view with four peripheral edges, the peripheral edges each having portions that extend horizontally underneath an adjacent grid runner, each edge of an oppositely disposed pair of said edges having a downwardly facing support surface disposed between a plane of a lower visible face of the tile and a plane of an upper back face of the tile, the grid runners each being symmetrical about a vertical mid-plane and having horizontal flange portions extending in opposite directions away from said mid-plane, each of said oppositely disposed edges of said tiles having a generally vertical abutment surface above its support surface, the support surface resting on the adjacent horizontal flange portion, the runners having locating surfaces of limited height above said flange portions and engageable with the abutment surfaces, the runners and tiles being arra
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: USG INTERIORS, INC.
    Inventors: Alan C. Wendt, Gerald L. Koski
  • Patent number: 7380371
    Abstract: A clip includes a body (10) and an opening (14) within the body and in which, in use, a part of a plant can engage. A slot (19), which is of doglegged configuration, extends between the opening (14) and an edge (17) of the body (10). The body (10) can be coupled to a means for providing support to the plant or part of the plant by a second opening (13) for which a slot (18) extends from an opposite edge (17) of the body (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventors: Murray Douglas Jones, Mark Andrew Jones
  • Patent number: 7370841
    Abstract: The crisscross fulcrum according to the present invention is formed as a continuous member by fabricating one elastic member in the form of a plate. Therefore, the rocking fulcrum member can be obtained as a precise fulcrum member at a low cost with reduced variations in the spring characteristic and can be easily assembled. Additionally, in the present invention, it is preferable that a heat treatment should be performed on the crisscross spring formed by fabricating the one elastic member in the form of a plate. By the heat treatment performed after fabricating for forming the crisscross spring, the spring characteristic is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignees: Tokyo Seimitsu Co., Ltd., Tosei Engineering Corp.
    Inventor: Nozomi Takai
  • Publication number: 20080106074
    Abstract: A band clamp (50, 60, 70) for securing an inflator of an air bag module (300) to a mounting surface, the clamp having a band formed into a loop of diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the inflator enabling the band to be slipped over the inflator, the band including a fastener receiving opening (32) therethrough to receive a fastener (22) which is receivable into the mounting surface, the band further including a means for tightening (40) the band about the inflator, such tightening creating stress within the band which if uncompensated tends to enlarge the fastener receiving opening, the band clamp further including first means including a set of holes (58, 60) that are larger than the fastener receiving opening (32) for absorbing the stress to lessen the possible enlargement of the fastener receiving opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: KEY SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Brian C. Ford
  • Patent number: 7249728
    Abstract: A novel wear surface cover clip for use with a conventional wire dispensing reel of the type used for dispensing tie wire such as that used for tying rebar during concrete construction projects. The wear surface cover clip of the invention can be easily removably interconnected with a conventional wire dispensing reel and when once installed, markedly extends the life of the wire dispensing reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Keelyn Williamson
  • Patent number: 7243971
    Abstract: Clip for attaching a bed liner to a cargo area of a vehicle such as a pickup truck can include a body to which is attached an ear, and attached to the ear, a toe that can engage a vertical portion of a wall of the bed liner; optionally, a hole may be provided in the body to disengage the toe from the bed liner wall opposite the toe. The clip in another embodiment can include a body to which is attached a biasing upper extension arm, and a laterally directed retaining member, and between the body and the laterally directed retaining member is provided at least one gap for receiving a wall portion of the bed liner; optionally, a recess may be provided to accommodate a blind lip tab of the pickup truck cargo area wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Durakon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent M. McKeoun, Thomas G. Sierakowski, Christopher John Rudy
  • Patent number: 7219404
    Abstract: A retaining clip is for securing an electrical connector to be inserted through an opening formed in a panel. The retaining clip comprises a base having an aperture therethrough for receiving the free end of the electrical connector and having one or more engagement means for engaging with and holding the electrical connector. The base is shaped to contact at least a portion of the surface of the panel that it overlies. A plurality of fingers extending away from the base are displaceable to allow insertion of a mating connector and to contact the surface of the mating connector. Thus, the clip shields the surface of the mating connector with respect to the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited
    Inventors: Goro Haga, David Kitt
  • Patent number: 7146688
    Abstract: A clip comprising a base, a first clasping assembly coupled to the base, and a second clasping assembly coupled to the base. A circuit board assembly comprising a radio circuit board, a pair of RF cables, and a clip assembly secured to the radio circuit board and coupled to the RF cables. A method for securing cables to a substratum comprising passing cables through clasping assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: George Youghzi Yi
  • Patent number: 7093999
    Abstract: An Interlocking System utilizing upper and lower grooves along the edges of the base of an item to interlock with upper and lower grooves on other items. One item described is a dispenser using a spongy material to force a tape with labels upwardly to be withdrawn. Another item with upper and lower grooves is a storage box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Deborah J. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7001179
    Abstract: An orthodontic bracket comprising a pair of tie wings, an archwire containing slot disposed between the tie wings, a pair of gingival stabilizing notches formed in one of the tie wings, an incisal stabilizing slot formed in the other tie wing, an orthodontic clip comprising an interactive section with a gingival wing secured to one side edge thereof and an incisal wing secured to the other side thereof, a medial slit formed in interactive section, a pair of supplemental slits formed between the interactive section and the gingival wing and the incisal wing, respectively, portions of the gingival wing disposed in the gingival stabilizing notches, and a portion of the incisal wing disposed in the incisal stabilizing slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: John Devincenzo
  • Patent number: 6846023
    Abstract: In a single-piece connector clamp for flange connections of pipe sections wherein the clamp has a U-shaped spring back with opposite legs and spring arms extending from the legs in spaced relationship and forming spring arm pairs disposed at opposite sides of a reception space for the connector flanges, the connector clamp includes in the center area of the web a cutout area which extends from the base of a spring arm to the adjacent spring arm base so that the spring arms of the single piece connector clamp are supported resiliently for independent clamping action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: CTS Fahrzeug - Dachsysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Günther Ebinger, Alexander Roser
  • Patent number: 6842949
    Abstract: A wire rope clamp includes a U-shaped clamp member having a central fold. The clamp member has a first plate portion on one end of the central fold and a second plate portion on an opposite end of the central fold. The clamp member has a least one opening therein sized to allow at least one wire rope to pass therethrough. Such opening is located on said central fold between opposite sides of the clamp member. A tightening member urges the first plate portion and the second plate portion relatively closer together causing the plate portions to clamp onto one or more wire ropes located therebetween. The plate portions have embossments perpendicular to the rope direction that provide sufficient clamping grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Robert E. Warren
  • Patent number: 6837009
    Abstract: A brace for retaining a rod at a fixed location relative to building structure. The brace includes two brace members in face-to-face engagement to define a rod receiving opening with slots formed in the brace members. The brace members are connected together by an integral rigid attachment element at a location spaced from the rod receiving opening and resisting relative movement between the brace members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Steven A. Roth
  • Patent number: 6814716
    Abstract: A device for externally retaining a gastrostomy feeding tube comprises a clip. In one embodiment, the clip is a generally rectangular, unitary structure shaped to include a first end wall, a second end wall spaced apart from and extending parallel to the first end wall, a lower wall extending perpendicularly between and interconnecting the first end wall and the second end wall, and an upper wall having a first end connected to the first end wall and a second end spaced apart from the second end wall. The first end wall, the second end wall, the lower wall and the upper wall together define a tubing storage cavity, with the space between the upper wall and the second end wall defining an inlet to the tubing storage cavity. The first end wall has a top surface, a bottom surface and a bore extending between said top surface and said bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Laddvanh Bouphavichith, Michael S. H. Chu, Laurence D. Brenner, William L. Churchill
  • Patent number: 6749087
    Abstract: The present invention is a tube clip for securing the coiled/rolled up end of tubes such as toothpaste, salves, ointments and the likes, thus eliminating the possibility of the tube unrolling and keeping the manufacturers product continually at the ready.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Donald F. Robinson
  • 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: 6691376
    Abstract: A firmly secured paper clip comprises a foldable paper clip and a retainer. The paper clip is capable of being folded as three paper plates. The first paper plate is the longest one, and the third paper plate is the shortest one. The first paper plate is connected to the second paper plate and the second paper plate is connected to the third paper plate. In assembly, the second paper plate is folded and then is adhered on the first paper plate. Then the third paper plate is folded from the second paper plate and is located between the first paper plate and second paper plate. The retainer serves to fix the first paper plate and second paper plate to form the whole paper clip. Thereby, when a notepaper is inserted into a clamping opening between the first paper plate and third paper plate, it is firmly secured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Hung-Wei Chen
  • 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: 6637716
    Abstract: A poster clasp for suspending a poster includes a suspension assembly having at least one suspension device for operable, suspending cooperation with a surface; and a clasp assembly being formed integrally, unitarily with the suspension assembly, the clasp assembly having a support member and a hinged gripping member, the support member having a cam point formed integral with a backplate, and the hinged gripping member having a hingedly rotatable compression fin, the compression fin being rotatable between an open disposition and a closed disposition, the compression fin being formed integral with a hinge and being formed of a relatively soft material. A method of engaging a poster for the suspension thereof by means of a poster clasp is further included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Popco, Inc
    Inventor: Stuart C. W. Wear
  • Patent number: 6637172
    Abstract: A clip for attachment to the flanges of a structural steel member for purposes of securing sheet material to the member is comprised of a rectangular-shaped clip of lightweight sheet material having opposite sides and opposite ends and enclosing an open center portion. A clip element is formed from a protrusion of the sheet metal material and extends outwardly from the clip and terminates in a free end which is spaced from the clip to create an open space to partially receive a flange of a steel member. The clip element is positioned with respect to the clip so that the clip dwells outwardly of the flange when mounted thereon. The clip element is comprised of a spring-like material so as to be able to frictionally engage the flange. The clip has a plurality of protruding frictional elements thereon to enhance the frictional engagement of the clip to the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Donavon G. Bousquet
  • Patent number: 6622352
    Abstract: A quick-connect/quick-release wire hanger provided in a variety of configurations for use in a variety of applications. The wire hanger of the invention is formed of a substantially planar center portion having first and second pairs of opposing peripheral edges, such as a square or rectangle. A first pair of wire clips extends from the first pair of opposing peripheral edges and are angled upwardly relative to the planar center portion, each of the pair of wire clips includes a hook portion. A second pair of wire clips extends from the second pair of opposing peripheral edges and are angled downwardly relative to the planar center portion, each of the second pair of wire clips also includes a hook portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Clip-N-Stay
    Inventor: David M. Herron
  • Patent number: 6578759
    Abstract: Clip (10) for holding lid flaps (110) of a carton (100) in an open position against carton walls (101) to facilitate packing of carton (100). Clip (10) includes a horizontal spine (20) to which are attached a center post (30), a long prong (40) a short prong (50), and a handle tab (25). To use clip (10), clip (10) is positioned with center post (30) above a corner (107) of carton (100) and lowered to insert center post (30) in interior dihedral angle (108) of corner (107). Long prong (40) contacts a first lid flap (110) and rotates flap (110) into the open position. Short prong (50) contacts a second flap (110) shortly afterward and rotates second flap (110) into an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Raul E. Ortiz
  • Patent number: 6572058
    Abstract: An improved wire and/or cable support member provides simultaneous support for a plurality of wires and/or cable members. A first portion of the support member includes a bracket portion that is preferably configured to have a vertical orientation. The first bracket portion desirably includes one or more openings through which screws, bolts or nails may be driven to secure the bracket to an adjacent structure. A cable support arm extends outward from the bracket portion. This portion also has a further portion which extends parallel to the bracket portion and a further segment which extends back toward the bracket portion to form a cavity within which one or more cables and/or wires may be located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Fabworks, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph R. Gerardo
  • Publication number: 20030051319
    Abstract: A quick-connect/quick-release wire hanger provided in a variety of configurations for use in a variety of applications. The wire hanger of the invention is formed of a substantially planar center portion having first and second pairs of opposing peripheral edges, such as a square or rectangle. A first pair of wire clips extends from the first pair of opposing peripheral edges and are angled upwardly relative to the planar center portion, each of the pair of wire clips includes a hook portion. A second pair of wire clips extends from the second pair of opposing peripheral edges and are angled downwardly relative to the planar center portion, each of the second pair of wire clips also includes a hook portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: David M. Herron
  • Patent number: 6529386
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for retaining a first circuit board on a second circuit board. Embodiments of the invention use a clip attached to uprights to exert a biasing force on the first circuit board. The uprights are also coupled to the second circuit board. In embodiments of the invention, the first circuit board is a processor package such as a processor package for use in a Slot 1 or Slot 2 connector, and the second circuit board is a motherboard of a computer system. Embodiments of the invention also include a memory module and a power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig L. Boe
  • Patent number: 6526635
    Abstract: A cord clip for fastening a cord attached to e.g. an earphone to an object such as a clothes is disclosed. The cord clip includes a clipping portion for clamping the object and a cord holding portion for holding the cord. The clipping portion is formed by a first annular portion having a discontinuity at a part thereof. The clipping portion is capable of clamping the object at a clamping portion thereof provided by a narrow gap formed by the discontinuity of the first annular portion by means of an elastic resilient force of the first annular portion. The cord holding portion is formed by a second annular portion having a discontinuity at a part thereof. The cord holding portion is capable of holding the cord therein by means of an elastic resilient force of the second annular portion. This elastic resilient force of the second annular portion is independent of that of the first annular portion. The first annular portion and the second annular portion are formed integrally in a single member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hosiden Corporation
    Inventors: Koji Nasu, Satoru Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6513205
    Abstract: An easily employed, highly efficient, multi-product holding and retaining member is achieved which engages the apertures of a plurality of blister package product bearing support cards, maintaining the plurality of independent cards in a secure, fully integrated compact configuration, preventing movement and unwanted damage during shipping. In addition the holding and retaining member enables a stock clerk to place the plurality of blister package product bearing support cards directly onto the elongated rod or hooks simultaneously in a single operation, enabling rapid transfer of the product for sale and distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Acme United Corporation
    Inventor: David L. Mathieu
  • Patent number: 6513206
    Abstract: A retainer clip is shown for retaining a device through an opening in a panel such as a printed circuit board, enclosure wall or similar structure. The clip surrounds the portion of the device projecting through the aperture and by a single longitudinal motion engages cooperating portions of the device to secure the device at the panel opening. The clip includes means for detenting in the assembled, locking position to prevent accidental release of the device from the secured, mounted condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Terry Fredrick Banitt, Gary Allen Olson
  • Publication number: 20030014850
    Abstract: A retainer clip is shown for retaining a device through an opening in a panel such as a printed circuit board, enclosure wall or similar structure. The clip surrounds the portion of the device projecting through the aperture and by a single longitudinal motion engages cooperating portions of the device to secure the device at the panel opening. The clip includes means for detenting in the assembled, locking position to prevent accidental release of the device from the secured, mounted condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Terry Fredrick Banitt, Gary Allen Olson
  • Patent number: 6489566
    Abstract: A device for fixing a wire to a support member in which there is at least one opening and a support member for a cable duct including the fixing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Metal Deploye S.A.
    Inventor: Michel Durin
  • Patent number: 6477751
    Abstract: A securing member or tether clip for swagging a table cloth, fabric or other similar material, has a base for gathering the table cloth to form a swag. The base includes a first end and a second end. A first arm is swingably connected to the first end of the base. A male member is connected the first arm, the male member has a neck and a head connected to the neck. A catch extends the arm. A second arm is swingably connected to the second end of the base. A female member is connected to the second arm for receiving the male member. A first hinge is connected between the first arm and the base. A second hinge is connected between the second arm and the base. A hook and loop fastener includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is connected to the clip. An augmenting attachment is connected to the second portion of the hook and loop fastener. The second portion connects the attachment to the first portion of the hook and loop fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventors: David Baumdicker, Susan E. Baumdicker
  • Patent number: 6459517
    Abstract: An electromagnetic interference shielding arrangement, includes a duplex optical transceiver having a light-emitter and a light-receiver disposed adjacent to each other and at an end of the optical transceiver. A first electromagnetic interference shield covers a major portion of the optical transceiver. A tailstock has an aperture disposed in alignment with the end of the optical transceiver. A second electromagnetic interference shield is positionable to shield the end of the optical transceiver. The second electromagnetic interference shield includes a pipe formed from a conductive material. The pipe has two opposing openings, and an axis extending from one of the openings to the other of the openings. The pipe has a profile that corresponds to a profile of the end of the optical transceiver. A septum is attached to the pipe. The septum is formed from a conductive material. The septum is arranged to extend in a direction that is at an angle to the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy Paul Duncan, John Stephen Maas, James Larry Peacock, Scott Marvin Thorvilson
  • Patent number: 6457218
    Abstract: A plastic clip of unitary, one piece construction, and a method for making the same is disclosed. The clip includes a first leg of a first thickness, a second leg of a second thickness, and a bridging section joining the first leg and the second leg, the bridging section being of a dimension that upon cooling or curing of the plastic material, the bridging section biases the first leg against the second leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Lloyd L. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 6450471
    Abstract: A poster clasp for suspending a poster therefrom includes a suspension assembly having at least one suspension device for operable, suspending cooperation with a surface. A clasp assembly is formed integrally, unitarily with the suspension assembly. The clasp assembly has a support member and a hinged gripping member, the support member having a cam point formed integral with a backplate, and the hinged gripping member having a hingedly rotatable lobe, the lobe being rotatable between an open disposition and a closed disposition, the lobe cooperating with the cam point to exert a compressive, frictional force on a poster disposed between the lobe and the cam point when the lobe is in the closed disposition to capture the poster for suspension thereof. A method of engaging a poster for the suspension thereof by means of a poster clasp is further included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Popco, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart C. W. Wear
  • Patent number: 6415479
    Abstract: A clip that can be either permanently affixed to a tube or removable from a tube having foldable wings is folded about the tube allowing the user to fully extrude the product contained within the tube. In order to retain the folded shape of the tube, the clip has foldable wings, which are folded around the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Nathan Steinberg
  • Patent number: 6412149
    Abstract: Disengagement of C-clips in turbine shroud assemblies is prevented by providing each C-clip with at least one anti-rocking pad. The anti-rocking pad is disposed on a radially inner surface of the C-clip so as to make snug contact with a portion of the shroud adjacent to the C-clip. The snug contact limits rocking motion of the C-clip, thereby preventing C-clip disengagernent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John H. Overberg
  • Patent number: 6412150
    Abstract: A fastening device for securing and mounting elements used in costuming and decoration, includes an upper plate having at least one interior bar for looping the elements onto the upper plate, and having openings on both sides of the interior bar, and a lower plate with a securing mechanism for securing the lower plate to the upper plate, so that when the plates are secured together the looped elements are held into place on the fastening device which is attached to a costume, clothing or other article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Cathy Ann Monderine
  • Patent number: 6393675
    Abstract: A device for retaining, in a rolled-up configuration, a portion of a collapsible container that holds a quantity of a product. The method includes forming a roll of a collapsible container holding a quantity of a product. The opening of a U-shaped clip is then urged into engagement with the roll of the collapsible container until the opening passes about the roll, and the roll becomes disposed between arms of the U-shaped clip. Thus arranged, an layer of a resilient, open-cell foam material lining the inside of the U-shaped clip is juxtaposed with and compressed by the roll of the collapsible container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Hubert J. Gaetke
  • Patent number: 6378827
    Abstract: A support unit for supporting articles hung from a generally planar surface is provided that includes a support arm for placement on a top surface of a generally planar surface. The support arm contacts the top surface of the generally planar surface. A mating portion contacts a bottom surface of the general planar surface opposite the top surface of the generally planar surface contacted by the support arm. A curved portion connects the support arm to the mating portion. The curved portion provides the gripping force between the support arm and the mating portion. A hook extends downwardly from the mating portion and towards the curved portion. The hook supports articles hung therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Kacines
  • Patent number: 6374463
    Abstract: A preferred clip includes a body formed from a length of band-like material. The body incorporates a back portion and first and second abutment portions extending outwardly from the body portion. Free ends of the abutment portions are formed at opposing ends of the body and are configured to engage each other. A pair of fingergrips also are provided that are configured with two legs that are spaced from each other. Each of the fingergrips include a gripping end and a pair free ends, with the free ends being retained at respective free ends of the abutment portions. Additionally, a corner-receiving opening is formed through the back portion, with the corner-receiving opening being characterized by a width greater than the spacing of the legs of the fingergrips. So configured, the corner-receiving opening may receive therethrough a corner portion of a stack of sheets of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 6370036
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for retaining a first circuit board on a second circuit board. Embodiments of the invention use a clip attached to uprights to exert a biasing force on the first circuit board. The uprights are also coupled to the second circuit board. In embodiments of the invention, the first circuit board is a processor package such as a processor package for use in a Slot 1 or Slot 2 connector, and the second circuit board is a motherboard of a computer system. Embodiments of the invention also include a memory module and a power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig L. Boe
  • Publication number: 20020035768
    Abstract: A method and device for retaining, in a rolled-up configuration, a portion of a collapsible container that holds a quantity of a product. The method includes forming a roll of a collapsible container holding a quantity of a product. The opening of a U-shaped clip is then urged into engagement with the roll of the collapsible container until the opening passes about the roll, and the roll becomes disposed between arms of the U-shaped clip. Thus arranged, an layer of a resilient, open-cell foam material lining the inside of the U-shaped clip is juxtaposed with and compressed by the roll of the collapsible container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 28, 2002
    Inventor: Hubert J. Gaetke
  • Patent number: 6360999
    Abstract: A device for retaining an LED indicator on a computer enclosure includes a hole defined in a panel of the enclosure for receiving the LED indicator therein. The hole has a circumferential edge along which a perpendicular flange is formed for surface contacting and thus securely retaining the LED indicator. Two radially extending slits are defined in the panel in communication with the hole thereby forming a resilient tab therebetween. A nominal diameter of the hole is substantially corresponding to or slightly smaller than a diameter of the LED indicator whereby when the LED indicator is inserted into the hole, the resilient tab is deflected and thus applies a biasing force to the LED indicator for securely retaining the LED indicator. A round corner is formed between the flange and the edge of the hole for avoiding damaging the LED indicator and for guiding the LED indicator into the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision IND Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nien Chiang Liao
  • Patent number: 6349043
    Abstract: A computer system including a chassis having a microprocessor mounted thereon. A system memory is coupled to provide storage to facilitate execution of computer programs by the microprocessor. An input is coupled to provide input to the microprocessor and a display is coupled to the microprocessor by a video controller. A mass storage is coupled to the microprocessor. A shielding body is mounted on the chassis. A pair of spaced apart contact members are attached to the shielding body. A main spring member is attached to at least one of the contact members. The main spring member includes an elongated beam offset from the contact members and a plurality of spring fingers interconnecting the beam and at least one of the contact members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Ralph Warren Jensen, Richard Steven Mills, David Mark Wilcox, Tracey Wade Kannmacher
  • Patent number: 6341466
    Abstract: A new and useful clip is disclosed for securing an elongate member, or lather's channel, to a horizontal T-bar of a ceiling grid, conventionally used to form a drop ceiling. The clip comprises a body having a downwardly opening recess therein for permitting the body to be placed over the lather's channel, without removing the channel from the T-bar. The lather's channel is in a seated position in which the channel is received in the recess of the clip. The clip has clasps depending from the body configured so that as the body is moved toward its seated position, the clasps assume positions on opposite sides of the stem of the T-bar for clasping the T-bar and securing the clip to the T-bar. The clip further includes a spring finger formed integrally with the body. The finger is engageable with the lather's channel as the body is moved to its seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Kehoe, Eric R. Rinderer
  • Patent number: 6327758
    Abstract: The subject matter is a resilient unitary lighting clip which connects a bar hanger to a T-bar in an overhead lighting assembly. The clip includes a face plate which has a lock formed integral with the face plate to secure the clip to the bar hanger. A U-shaped connector is formed integral with the face plate for receiving a bar hanger. A support is formed integral with the connector for receiving a portion of a T-bar. A catch is formed integral with the support and is resiliently connectable to the T-bar. A tab is formed integral with the support and is engageable with the T-bar for positioning the clip relative to the T-bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Juno Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: John Petrakis, George L. Janos
  • Patent number: 6327160
    Abstract: A circuit board retainer includes a U-shaped body portion having a base plate and two side plates extending from the base plate. A panel connecting portion includes two retaining tabs perpendicularly extending from the base plate and each defines a notch. A resilient tab is formed on the base plate and extending between the retaining tabs. The retaining tabs are received in corresponding slits defined in a support panel. The circuit board retainer is moved with respect to the support panel for rendering the notches of the retaining tabs to engage with edges of the corresponding slits. The resilient tab is biased by the resiliency thereof to engage with an opening defined in the support panel thereby securely mounting the circuit board retainer to the support panel. A board connecting portion includes two resilient L-shaped members respectively extending from the side plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nien-Chiang Liao
  • Publication number: 20010044992
    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: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Applicant: Paul Hettich GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Peter Jahrling