Formed From Single Rigid Piece Of Material Patents (Class 24/570)
  • Patent number: 11969026
    Abstract: A cleaning system and cleaning devices and methods for cleaning smoking accessories, and in particular, glass smoking accessories, including a containment, which according to preferred embodiments, is configured as an elastomeric tube, and preferably a silicone tube that is designed to receive the smoking accessory therein. A smoking accessory is admitted to the tube with a cleaner or detergent being added or present in the tube. A closure is provided for closing the end of the silicone containment or tube. The tube is folded over onto itself when the accessory is within the tube. The clip preferably is applied to the tube end to maintain the sealing position of the tube, in order to contain the accessory as well as an cleaning solution therein. The accessory is cleaned by shaking the tube with the accessory therein. A kit is provided having a tube, a brush and a clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2024
    Inventor: Samuel W. Claytor
  • Patent number: 11520165
    Abstract: An eyewear clipping device to fasten the eyewear to the sides of a cap that comprises a first vertical member forming an exterior slot for receiving an earpiece of an eyewear with a first top end and a first bottom end. A second vertical member forms an interior three-sectioned clip with a second top end and a bottom end comprising a central ascending vertical section that forks at the top second end to form two retention wings that extend back downward toward the bottom end that insert behind a hat band of a cap and together with the central ascending vertical section, which is positioned in front of the hat band, create an opposed gripping force on the hat band. The first bottom end and the second bottom end connect together using a U-shaped curve or straight bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Inventor: David R. Zabel
  • Patent number: 10166488
    Abstract: A device capable of enabling a balloon to stand up includes a balloon and a base stand. The base stand has a stand body being a hollow semi-circular structure having an upward-facing opening, and the stand body has a first prop, multiple second props and at least a couple of fixing plates provided therein. The stand body can have an inflated balloon attached thereto by using the fastening groove on an upper end of the first prop, so as to place a protruding end of an outlet of the balloon in the clamping groove between the two fixing plates, that is, to combine the balloon with the opening end of the stand body, thus enabling the balloon to stand up stably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Inventor: Chia-Wen Hung
  • Patent number: 9027571
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool (1) for separating a hair bundle (11) comprising a number of hair strands appropriate for receiving a hair treatment composition (15) for creating a hair bundle effect. The hair bundle (11) is received into a through hole (10) via a slit (50). The dimensions of the through hole (10) dictate the appropriate size of a hair bundle (11). In one aspect of the present invention, the tool (1) is substantially flat in order to prevent spillages of hair treatment composition (15) onto the scalp. A gripping layer (70) may extend upon at least a portion of the tool (1) for aiding the grip of the tool (1) to the hair bundle (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Baker, Gwenalle Deloux, Natasha Jane Evans, Neil Anthony Litten, John Edward Sheppard
  • Patent number: 8998071
    Abstract: A three-pronged box flap closure device is provided for securing together three box flaps of a moving box or carton without the use of adhesive tape or overlapping the box flaps to secure the same together. One or more closure devices are contemplated for each box end, wherein each closure device comprises a first and second upper prong member forming a substantial V-shape with a common apex. A third prong member extends from the apex and between the first and second prong members, wherein the third prong member is disposed below the plane created by the first and second prong members. The first and second prong members are adapted to be positioned over a pair of aligned box flaps, while the lower prong member extends beneath a third, undermost box flap below the aligned box flaps, thereby sandwiching the three box flaps together along one side of the box end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Stephen Sublett
  • Publication number: 20150079316
    Abstract: An elongated fastener is configured to retain an insulation wrap around an elongated container. The fastener includes an elongated and substantially flat fastener body having first and second parallel rails extending from each longitudinal side of the fastener body. The fastener body is configured to span an elongated seam formed by opposing sides of the insulation wrap when the joint is disposed around the elongated container. Each rail is configured to extend into a complementary longitudinal slot disposed at an edge of a respective opposing side of the insulation wrap. Each rail includes at least one protrusion for engaging with each slot, thereby retaining each rail in its respective slot and retaining the insulation wrap around the elongated container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: NOMACO INC.
    Inventors: Teresa Ann Pernell, Joseph Robert Secoura
  • Publication number: 20150047572
    Abstract: A system for housetraining pets through the use of separated sleeping and waste areas contained within a pet cage. The cage encloses a waste tray section that runs along the floor of the cage, which holds an absorbent pad, secured by improved retention clips, for collecting pet waste that can be removed and replaced when soiled. A bedding area made of up a rectilinear frame covered in bedding material is raised above the floor of the cage by engaging frame extensions with perforations in the exterior of the cage. The system and associated method serve to aid in conditioning a pet for proper housetraining while the pet is confined to a cage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Gary Rybka, Michael Schoeff
  • Publication number: 20140150218
    Abstract: Clips for coupling devices, such as electrical junction boxes, to support members are provided. In one example, a clip for coupling an electrical junction box to a support member includes a coupling member and a flange. The coupling member is adapted to engage the support member and includes a first member, a second member spaced-apart from the first member, and a third member extending between and engaging the first and second members. The first, second and third members together define a receptacle adapted to receive the support member therein. The flange extends from the coupling member and defines a fastener opening therein adapted to receive a fastener for coupling the clip to the electrical junction box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Tom M. Colangelo, Asim B. Siddiqui, Justin C. McMath, Tomasz R. Sikora
  • Publication number: 20140140784
    Abstract: Described are connectors comprising: a body; at least four arms extending from the body; a first pair of opposing, substantially closed slots along a first axis of the body, wherein each slot is defined by one or more of the at least four arms and an edge of the body; and a second pair of opposing, substantially closed slots along a second axis of the body, wherein each slot is defined by one or more of the at least four arms and an edge of the body; wherein, each slot comprises an opening defined by at least two of the at least four arms; and wherein, the openings of the first pair of opposing, substantially closed slots are offset and the openings of the second pair of opposing, substantially closed slots are offset. Methods of coupling straps together via such connectors, and the resulting net-like structure, are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Southern Bracing Systems Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Wayne E. Vick, David W. Vick, Clayton D. Vick, Joseph David Hawks, Eddie R. Shockley, John Forcier
  • Patent number: 8695273
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a waste fishing line holder for anglers carried by a person while fishing. It secures the waste fishing line that an angler generates when changing flies or fishing rigs. The holder is carried in an angler's pocket, a tackle box or attached to an item of clothing or gear. The apparatus is mostly comprised of a generally J shaped body with a long leg and a short leg and being of elongate length of rigid and durable material with an area of deformable resilient and cushioned material attached to the short leg. Formed so that line is held securely in a slit/gap between the long leg and deformable cushioned material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Wayne Tracy Smith
  • Patent number: 8683658
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for utilizing an airbag clamp for securing an airbag onto an inflating tube of an airbag system. An embodiment of the present invention includes a body, a first engaging portion, and a second engaging portion. The body may be capable of surrounding the device, wherein the body may include a first end and a second end that are capable of moving towards each other. The first engaging portion may be located at a first end, wherein the first engaging portion may include at least one plate. The second engaging portion may be located at the second end, wherein the second engaging portion may include at least one plate. The engaging portions may be capable of being fitted together and the plates may be capable of being fastened together to secure the clamp around the material and device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Tinnerman Palnut Engineered Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Richard Danby, Todd Hemingway, Peter Murphy
  • Patent number: 8631610
    Abstract: A system for attaching gutter protection systems to roofs having shingle/tile like style. A roof clip is adapted to be positioned under a shingles such that a tab extends vertically upward through a keyway between two adjacent roof shingles. The tab receives and secures an upper end of the gutter protection system. The tab is folded over the gutter protector and secured to the based of the roof clip through the keyway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Wayne Willert
  • Patent number: 8616222
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool for separating a hair bundle of hair from the remaining hair for a hair bundle effect such as highlighting, the tools are structured to be applied to hair through a slit and into a through hole, the through hole then holds the hair bundle to receive the hair effect compared to the whole head of hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Baker, Gwenaelle Deloux, Natasha Jane Evans, Neil Anthony Litton, John Edward Sheppard
  • Publication number: 20130326846
    Abstract: A clip connecting the outer end of a gutter guard to the outer end of a gutter. The clip has an outwardly extending lower panel, a front panel extending upwardly from an inner end of the lower panel, the front panel merging with an intermediate panel that extends outwardly over the lower panel. The lower and intermediate panels are constructed to engage the outer gutter end to connect the clip thereto. The intermediate panel is folded inwardly at its outer end and merges with an upper panel extending inwardly over the intermediate panel. The intermediate and upper panels are constructed to receive and retain therebetween the gutter guard outer end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: James M. CULLEN
  • Patent number: 8534017
    Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing baseboard tilt associated with fastening a baseboard to a wall panel having a recessed edge. A baseboard support includes a corner bracket having first and second upright base members and having one or more flaps extending from an upright edge a base member. Each flap forms a flap angle with an adjacent portion of the bracket. Each flap is attached to the bracket at a resilient flap corner, or flap hinge. The baseboard support can be positioned in a corner in an upright position. A first baseboard can be positioned so that the baseboard end engages the first upright base member. A second baseboard can be positioned to engage the second upright base member, forming a mitered joint between the two baseboards. The baseboard support provides a stop that prevents each baseboard from tilting away from its corresponding wall panel and creating an unsightly gap. The flap or flaps allow the baseboard support to stand freely in the interior corner prior to baseboard positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Lloyd Schroeter
  • Publication number: 20130192031
    Abstract: One example embodiment includes a system for personalizing items. The system includes a body. The system also includes a hole, wherein the hole passes completely through at least a portion of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Raul Molina, Karen Marquez-Molina
  • Publication number: 20130061532
    Abstract: A weatherstrip cinch clip for an automobile including a substantially vertically aligned first wall, a substantially vertically aligned second wall extending substantially perpendicularly to the first wall, and a substantially horizontally aligned prong extending away from the second wall in a direction substantially parallel to the first wall, wherein the prong is configured to extend substantially within a prong receiving aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Todd William Dishman, Tracy Christopher Bakos, Jim Antime Marleau, Ken Michael Reo
  • Publication number: 20130036578
    Abstract: A steel wire hook includes a head and a base which are made of metallic wire. The head is connected with the base. A plane where the head is provided is perpendicular to a plane where the base is provided. The head includes a circular-arc-shaped top end portion, a left shoulder, a right shoulder and a short leg. The left shoulder and the right shoulder are extended from the circular-arc-shaped top end portion and are symmetrical to each other. The short leg is provided at a lower end of the head and is tilted towards the circular-arc-shaped top end portion. An angle is provided between the short leg and the base. The base, having an approximately oval-shape and formed by coiling a metallic wire at a horizontal direction, includes a long leg which has a larger gap from the main body of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Zhangjian Wang
  • Publication number: 20130025626
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning debris from swimming pools includes a frame, a corresponding net, and retaining means for retaining the net on the frame. The preferred retaining means is an elongated strip of resilient, flexible material, having a generally U-shaped cross-section. The web portion of the cross-section includes an exterior surface smoothly shaped between its two edges to urge debris from the pool into the net. The leg portions of the cross-section include gripping portions to assist in engaging and/or disengaging the retaining means from the frame, to permit the net to be assembled, changed or replaced. Preferably, the retaining means is formed from at least two different materials. The preferred frame of the tool is fabricated from aluminum and includes an elongated, curved frame portion with its ends permanently assembled into the end of a tubular attachment member, to permit attachment of the tool to a handle, pole or similar structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: ERIC RESH
  • Publication number: 20130001147
    Abstract: In a chromatography column, at least one plastic retaining mesh is attached to a distributor plate using a fixture element comprising an elongated edge that penetrates into the plastic mesh to ensure sealing and to prevent radial movement of the plastic mesh.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES AB
    Inventors: Daniel Salomonsson, Petter Bennemo, Per Uselius
  • Publication number: 20120311826
    Abstract: A simple apparatus to be affixed to a traditional expandable file jacket which when properly so affixed holds open said jacket so as to allow easy one hand insertion and removal of documents and other materials into and out of said jacket. Also, the said apparatus so affixed to a plurality of said jackets arranged so as to form a system of said easy to use said jackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Gerald Paul SanFilippo
  • Publication number: 20120291229
    Abstract: Apparatus used to create storage space on the outside of a backpack and method for using such apparatus are described. The storage apparatus comprises a restraining device configured to store items on the outside of a backpack and an assembly for connecting the restraining device to a backpack. This assembly contains a grasping device and a connection device removably attached to the grasping device so that the fabric of the backpack is retained between the grasping device and the connection device. Items can then be stored on the outside of the backpack under the restraining device or the items can be attached to the restraining device itself. Using the connection assembly, the restraining device can be quickly attached to a wide variety of locations on the backpack and can be used with a wide variety of types, sizes, and shapes of backpacks. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Jeremy Spencer, Bill Spencer, Eric Spencer
  • Publication number: 20120217215
    Abstract: A shower caddy system includes a tension pole, a number of shelves and a number of clips for attaching and reattaching the shelves to the tension pole. The clips are opened and closed when attaching and reattaching the shelves to the tension pole. Repositioning a shelf to a new location on the tension pole therefore does not require the removal of the tension pole from a shower stall or bathtub/shower area, thereby saving a user a significant amount of time and effort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Robert A. Emery, Joseph Gasparino
  • Patent number: 8191327
    Abstract: A wall panel system includes at least one wall panel, each edge of the panel having a flange. At least one flange, and preferably two opposing flanges, have at least one slot therein. Each slot is mated with a clip having a unique shape that allows the clip to be inserted into the slot and secured therein without the use of fasteners and strictly due to its shape. The clip may then be attached to a building surface or intermediary mounting apparatus by a fastener to secure the wall panel thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Firestone Building Products Company, LLC
    Inventors: Robert T. Griffiths, Wayne M. Wagner
  • Publication number: 20120110799
    Abstract: A clip for holding folded articles such as towels, fabrics, textiles, nonwoven fabrics, paper, and other sheets of material, includes a single piece construction having contoured braces on opposite ends of a connector. The contoured braces define a hinge portion allowing the braces to move outwardly away from the connector and then resiliently return to a position adjacent the connector. The braces are formed into a shape similar to the English letter S such that one curved portion of the brace is a finger grip and a second curved portion of the brace fits against a folded fabric to hold the fabric within the clip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Robyn Pellei
  • Publication number: 20120068487
    Abstract: A collapsible chopstick includes a food-contact element and a hollow handle element having an open end. The food contact element is tapered and includes a securing section that is sized to create a press fit with the hollow open end of the handle so that the food-contact element and handle can be connected together with the food-contact element exposed for using the chopsticks for eating or with the food-contact element safely secured within the hollow handle for stowing. A resilient connector/support block is included with two side channels and a curved top surface. The channels are sized to snugly receive and hold the two handles parallel to each other for convenient stowing and carrying and may be used separately to effectively hold the tips of the chopsticks off an eating surface when in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: Alison Wong
  • Patent number: 8083188
    Abstract: A sprinkler riser clamp securely engages a spring-retractable riser of a pop-up sprinkler. The riser clamp includes a clamping body and a handle attached thereto. The clamping body is configured to snap onto and securely grip the spring-retractable riser of the pop-up sprinkler. The clamping body exerts a gripping force while the spring-retractable riser exerts a retracing force. The gripping force exerted by the clamping body exceeds the retraction force exerted by the spring-retractable riser. The clamping body includes a resilient first clamp arm and a resilient second clamp arm connected by a joint at one end of each arm. The clamping body includes an opening for receiving the spring-retractable riser. The first clamp arm and second clamp arm of the clamping body each include rounded bottom edges configured to facilitate installation and removal by pivoting motion. The handle is attached to the clamping body by an arm. The handle has blunt ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventors: Dallas Kittle, Jonathan P. Mcvety
  • Patent number: 8020259
    Abstract: A cable clamp has a body, at least one front binding hole, at least one rear binding hole, multiple front connecting elements, multiple rear connecting elements, a first lateral connecting element and a second lateral connecting element. The front and the rear connecting elements are formed on the body, and the rear connecting elements correspond respectively to the front connecting elements. The first lateral and the second lateral connecting elements are formed on the body, and the second lateral connecting element corresponds to the first lateral connecting element. Each cable clamp is capable of attaching to another cable clamp rather with connecting the front connecting element of the cable clamp to the rear connecting element of another cable clamp or with connecting the second lateral connecting element of the cable clamp to the first lateral connecting element of another cable clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Cyber Power Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Lien-Hsun Ho, Shou-Ting Yeh, Hsiung-Kuei Cheng, Pei-Lun Chiang
  • Patent number: 7963010
    Abstract: A molded, semi ridged device for the purpose of securing a length of fabric or towel wrapped around the body of a person of the type having a straight flat base (10) connected to the face (12) by the top section (21). The base can be offset from the face to the left (7), right (13), and bottom (9) making the device easy to install beneath the bottom layer of the towel or fabric. The face of the device is inclined toward the base a few degree's from parallel till the beginning of the raised lip (14) which than is raised away from the base a few degree's from parallel to help facilitate the installation process. The towel/fabric clip has raise rails (15) (16) running vertically under the face, and raised rails (17) (18) running vertically under the base of the device to insure horizontal and vertical pressure on the towel/fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Alfred B Levesque
  • Patent number: 7950116
    Abstract: A cantilevered clip is provided for holding a stack of at least one tray and tray cover. Stack compressive forces applied by the clip are substantially limited to tray and cover edge portions. The clip has a channel base with left and right side walls attached for restricting movement of a stack in left and right directions. Pressure members are positioned orthogonal to at least one wall. An aperture is located adjacent to each pressure member and partially extends into each wall. Protrusions above the base extend inward towards the walls of the channel for captivating the stack in an upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Peak Plastic & Metal Products (Int'l) Ltd.
    Inventors: James D. Pylant, Scott C. Bradley, Alan Waber
  • Publication number: 20110088223
    Abstract: An improved clip formed of a pre-determined length of wire providing reversibility from at least two opposing directions with a plurality of clipping effects, and means for a plurality of substantially different holding power strengths to at least one amount of sheet material, is what the present patent is about (FIG. 5A-FIG. 5C). Although instructing spring loading (FIG. 13A-FIG. 13C), not spring loading an embodiment is also satisfactory. In one embodiment, one spline (24) provides torsion resulting in a strong holding power in one clipping effect (FIG. 5A). In another clipping effect, from an opposite direction (FIG. 5C), one spline (26) provides torsion resulting in another strong holding power similar to the previous one. In a third clipping effect, from this same direction (FIG. 5B), two splines (26, 28) provide torsion resulting in an extra strong holding power for larger size amounts of sheet material for a given size clip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Tod Michael O'Daniel
  • Publication number: 20110030177
    Abstract: A cushion clip includes a hollow cushioning portion, an engagement portion and a projection. The cushioning portion has a bottom wall portion and a side wall portion, and the side wall portion has cone-shaped outer and inner surfaces that are tapered from a proximal end toward a distal end thereof. The side wall portion has a top portion that is formed in the distal end thereof, and the top portion has an inner periphery radially inwardly protruding from the side wall portion and defining the central opening therein. The projection is cylindrically projected from the bottom wall portion toward the central opening of the cushioning portion, and has an upper end portion which diameter is larger than or equal to a diameter of the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: DAIWA KASEI KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Junya UKAI, Toshio IWAHARA, Reiko YAMAMOTO, Minoru TAKEMOTO
  • Publication number: 20110016676
    Abstract: A strap clip device comprising a top plate with a front end and a rear end, a side flange that is perpendicular to the top plate and that rims longitudinally from the front end of the top plate to the rear end of the top plate, and a front bracket that extends downward from the front end of the top plate and is curved inward to form a convex shape. The top plate comprises two lateral channels that form a tooth that is disposed roughly centrally on the top plate. The outer edge of the tooth comprises a first lip that extends downward from the outer edge of the tooth and is parallel to the side flange. The front bracket curves under and below the side flange. The strap clip device is comprised of a single piece of material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Neal Gray
  • Publication number: 20110000054
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus for attaching a recycling container to a waste container comprises a back plate having a length and a width that lies in a first plane, a crossover portion rigidly connected to the back plate and lying in a plane approximately transverse to the back plate and a coupling portion rigidly connected to the crossover portion opposite the back plate, the coupling portion having a substantially U-shaped profile and sized to receive a handle of one of the recycling container and the waste container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventor: EDMUND F. TRIFARI, JR.
  • Patent number: 7854372
    Abstract: A rectangular box closure clip engages the two top flaps of a shipping container holding them securely without damaging the carton enabling the boxes to be reused without the need for being reformulated. The closure clip includes a pair of lower surfaces and a pair of upper surfaces interconnected by a central web that extends substantially throughout the length of the clip. The edges of the two upper surfaces are set back to facilitate insertion into the box. In a second embodiment, a vertically extending endstop is provided to prevent a box stacked atop the clip from sliding axially relative thereto. In still a third embodiment, a recess allows a binder strap to be installed around the clip to retain it in place. A programmable, scanable chip may be incorporated into the closure clip to facilitate tracking and/or to tamper-proof the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: John A Bartone, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7823585
    Abstract: A snorkel clip made up of two substantially rigid elements, which are designed to wrap at least half way around a snorkel tube, overmolded with a substantially flexible element to create a simple, aesthetically pleasing device. The snorkel clip also includes a hinge region created as part of the substantially flexible element. This hinge region allows the snorkel clip to flex or bend so that one of the rigid elements may be disengaged and pulled away from the riser tube of the snorkel, so that a mask strap may be attached to and removed from the snorkel, while the other rigid element remains attached to the riser tube in a generally secure manner. The substantially flexible portion may also include several cut out sections to provide visual and tactile access to portions of the substantially rigid elements for utility and aesthetic design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Mark Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100255724
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly is disclosed that includes a receptacle connector, a plug connector and a locking clip. The locking clip securely surrounds the mated plug connector and receptacle connector to prevent the plug connector and the receptacle connector from being unmated without a tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: David Cours, Scott Hilt, Robert Scott Good, Stephen Daniel Gherardini, Paul D. Roman, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100199469
    Abstract: A pipe from a plastic material having memory properties is extruded. The extruded pipe is cut to form a pipe part (7). The pipe part (7) is warmed and the end (6b) of the pipe part (7) is bent. The pipe part (7) forms a clamping ring (6) and the bent end (6b) of the pipe part (7) forms a stop edge (10) in the clamping ring (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: UPONOR INNOVATION AB
    Inventor: Bengt Hedström
  • Publication number: 20100101057
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for utilizing an airbag clamp for securing an airbag onto an inflating tube of an airbag system. An embodiment of the present invention includes a body, a first engaging portion, and a second engaging portion. The body may be capable of surrounding the device, wherein the body may include a first end and a second end that are capable of moving towards each other. The first engaging portion may be located at a first end, wherein the first engaging portion may include at least one plate. The second engaging portion may be located at the second end, wherein the second engaging portion may include at least one plate. The engaging portions may be capable of being fitted together and the plates may be capable of being fastened together to secure the clamp around the material and device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Richard Danby, Todd Hemingway, Peter Murphy
  • Publication number: 20100031478
    Abstract: A peg (2), particularly a clothes peg, is disclosed. The peg includes a plate-shaped end part (4) which is connected with mainly plate-shaped primary holder parts (6), and connected with a mainly plate-shaped secondary holder part (8), where the primary holder parts are substantially mutually parallel holder parts (6) projecting from opposing sides of the end part. The secondary holder part (8) is a tongue-shaped holder part projecting from the end part and disposed midway between the substantially parallel holder parts (6). The primary holder parts (6) opposite the end part (4) and spaced apart therefrom are interconnected by a traversing holder part (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Jens Marius Poulsen, Bo Pihl
  • Patent number: 7621701
    Abstract: Self-retaining shim apparatus and methods for providing an offset surface for supporting a template above a contoured workpiece such as the frame of an aircraft are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a shim portion of substantially uniform thickness, and one or more biasing members secured to the distal end thereof and extending toward the proximal end. A work piece is positioned between the biasing member and shim portion such that the biasing members are elastically deformed, resulting in a restoring force exerted on the workpiece serving to retain the shim in engagement with the workpiece. Contact pads secure to the free ends of the biasing members and have a contact portion offset from the free end. The contact portion is rounded to facilitate mounting and retention of the self-retaining shim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David W. Skiles, James L. Morrison
  • Publication number: 20090279320
    Abstract: A plurality of clipping portions which clip a plurality of lamps to be juxtaposed are provided on one face, and a mounting portion to be mounted on a supporting member by which said lamps are supported, and holding projecting portions for holding positions of the clipping portions with respect to said supporting member are provided, and two flexible portions which can bend in a direction in which a distance between said supporting sections is changed are provided between at least two clipping portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventors: Masashi Yokota, Masaki Okazaki, Hiroki Fukai, Hideto Takeuchi, Masaki Shimizu
  • Patent number: 7574784
    Abstract: A clip is provided for holding a stack of at least one tray and tray cover. Stack compressive forces applied by the clip are substantially limited to tray and cover perimeter rail portions. The clip has a channel base with left and right side retaining walls attached for restricting movement of a stack in left and right directions. Left and right rods protrusions above the base extend inward towards the walls of the channel from the left and right side walls respectively for captivating the stack in an upward direction. Spring protrusions extend upward from the base on input and output ends of the channel, and are configured for applying an upward spring force on opposing bottom edge areas of the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Peak Plastic & Metal Products, (Int'l) Ltd.
    Inventors: James D. Pylant, Scott C. Bradley, Alan Waber
  • Publication number: 20090094914
    Abstract: A building product is configured for attachment to a surface of a building. In one example, the building product includes a siding product including a first side and a second side. In one example, the siding product is a pultruded product. A first engagement feature is disposed on or near the first side. A second engagement feature is disposed on or near the second side. The second engagement feature is configured to selectively frictionally engage with the first engagement feature of another similar siding product such that any curvature in the siding product increases frictional engagement between the siding product and the other similar siding product. In one example, the building product includes a spacer clip for attachment of the building product to the surface of the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: John Jambois, Robb Willgohs, Shane Allmendinger
  • Publication number: 20090090709
    Abstract: A box is collapsible in such a manner that it can form a flat stack of panels, each of which corresponds to one side of the box. When the box is configured as a flat stack of panels, it is relatively compact and, therefore, easy to store. When the collapsible box is configured as a box, it is sturdy and strong. The collapsible box has latching elements that can temporarily connect adjacent sides of the box to one another. Typically, a person can latch and unlatch the latching elements with his or her hand. The box is typically transparent and, therefore, well suited for displaying ornamental items, such as ornate hats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Ziva Shalomoff
  • Publication number: 20080229560
    Abstract: A clip is provided for holding a stack of at least one tray and tray cover. Stack compressive forces applied by the clip are substantially limited to tray and cover perimeter rail portions. The clip has a channel base with left and right side retaining walls attached for restricting movement of a stack in left and right directions. Left and right rods protrusions above the base extend inward towards the walls of the channel from the left and right side walls respectively for captivating the stack in an upward direction. Spring protrusions extend upward from the base on input and output ends of the channel, and are configured for applying an upward spring force on opposing bottom edge areas of the stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Peak Plastic and Metal Products (Int'l) Ltd.
    Inventors: James D. Pylant, Scott C. Bradley, Alan Waber
  • Patent number: 7367089
    Abstract: A protective body has an opening for receiving a hanging clip of a tape measure, knife, or other portable object. The protective body and opening are preferably sized and shaped to receive substantially all of the hanging clip, or at least the region of the clip immediately adjacent to the object, to cover any unsmooth edges of the hanging clip so they do not cut into the wear's belt, pocket, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventors: Ronald A. Cooke, Joseph V. Montgomery, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080010782
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multifunction clip which may be utilized as a clip for supporting a pair of glasses, a vertical card on a surface or for hanging an object from an article of clothing. The clip comprises a front portion and a back portion each having proximate and distal ends. The front and back portions are connected at their proximate ends wherein the distal ends of the front and back portions are opposably biased towards each other. The front portion includes a bottom portion proximate to the distal end wherein the bottom portion is angled away from the back portion and includes an aperture therethrough adapted to receive an arm of a pair of glasses or split ring. The front and back portion also have continuous side edges adapted to support the clip in an upright position on a surface so as to support a card in a substantially vertical orientation thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: Joan Sturdy
  • Patent number: 7299527
    Abstract: A strap retainer device and method for retaining a first object to a second object, the device including a body that is generally planar with an outer periphery portion, the body including a first end portion and a substantially oppositely disposed second end portion. The first end portion is adapted to attach to the first object and the second end portion includes a slot therethrough that is closed at both ends, the second end portion also includes a tortuous passageway therethrough that extends from the outer periphery portion to be in communication with the slot. The tortuous access passageway is operational to allow the strap to be selectably manually positioned from the outer periphery portion to the slot and selectably manually positioned from the slot to the outer periphery portion, wherein the tortuous access passageway helps restrict the strap from inadvertently dislodging from the slot to the outer periphery portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Gerald Albert Gyure
  • Publication number: 20070266533
    Abstract: A clip to be used with at least one track in a roofing assembly, the clip including a planar surface and at least one pair of flanges extending away from the planar surface in an orthogonal manner to define a right angle between each flange and the planar surface. Each flange defines an attachment surface for a corresponding track and extends away from a lower boundary of the planar surface in an orthogonal manner to define a right angle between each flange of the upper pair of flanges and the planar surface. The clip is sized to form a roof assembly having a pitch selected from any one of 6/12, 7/12, 8/12, 9/12, 10/12, 11/12 and 12/12. Moreover, the planar surface may include a G-90 coating and the clip can be manufactured from a material selected from a group including 16 gauge steel, wood, polymer and an alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Jason W. Greene