Each Mating Member Having Similarly Shaped, Sized, And Operated Interlocking Or Intermeshable Face Patents (Class 24/584.1)
  • Patent number: 11964632
    Abstract: A vehicle accessory attachment system include a structure having apertures. The system further includes a plurality of feet. Each foot is receivable within one of the apertures. The system further includes a locking assembly configured to transition back-and-forth between an unlocked position and a locked position. The locking assembly includes a biasing device, an extension coupled to one of the structure or the accessory, and at least one opening in the other of the structure or the accessory. When the locking assembly is in the unlocked position, the feet are slidable relative to the structure. When the locking assembly is in the locked position, the feet are received within one of the apertures and are shifted toward a side of the aperture to secure an accessory to a vehicle. The biasing device biases the locking assembly toward the locked position where the extension is received within the at least one opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Matthew B. Rutman
  • Patent number: 11759013
    Abstract: An apparatus that may anchor and/or protect furniture includes a compressible element and an adhesive material on opposite sides of the compressible element. The compressible element, which may comprise an expandable polyurethane foam, and the adhesive material may enable the apparatus to be secured to a piece of furniture and a wall and, when secured in position, to withstand pulling forces of at least about 50 pounds. Thus, the apparatus may prevent furniture from tilting and falling away from the wall. The adhesive material may also be removable from the surface of a wall while leaving substantially no residue or no residue on the surface of the wall. Methods for securing furniture to walls are also disclosed, as are apparatuses and methods for preventing furniture from damaging walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Tip-Not L.L.C.
    Inventor: Paul Pierpont
  • Patent number: 11643274
    Abstract: The present invention concerns an endless conveyor belt for a conveyor device, which conveyor belt comprises a belt body that can be transversely deformed between a flat configuration, at rest, and a tubular configuration. This belt body comprises two transition regions over its width which between them define a central belt portion, as well as two side belt portions situated between each of them and the nearby side edge. At least one thickness of the side belt portions is greater than at least one thickness of the central belt portion, forming at least one over thickness region on each of the side belt portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: LIFTVRAC
    Inventor: Marcel Boursier
  • Patent number: 11372490
    Abstract: A touch panel and a touch display panel are provided. The touch panel comprises: a touch layer provided with a plurality of first microstructures on an upper surface of the touch layer; and a cover plate provided with a plurality of second microstructures on a lower surface of the cover plate, wherein the second microstructures are adapted to the first microstructures, the cover plate is provided on the upper surface of the touch layer, and the plurality of second microstructures are adsorbed and self-locking connected to the plurality of first microstructures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS SEMICONDUCTOR DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mingjun Zhou, Pei Jia
  • Patent number: 11090915
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a rotor blade for a wind turbine is provided. The method includes steps of providing a mould defining an outer shape of a the rotor blade or a portion thereof; arranging a plurality of fibre fabric layers on a surface of the mould having at least one inclined surface portion; and laminating the fibre fabrics layers together by infusing a liquid resin into the mould. A step of interlocking the plurality of fibre fabric layers using at least one mechanical interlocking element prior to laminating the fibre fabric layers together is carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY A/S
    Inventor: Erik Grove-Nielsen
  • Patent number: 10293971
    Abstract: A reclosable carton has a releasable closure, with one portion of the closure adhered to a wall of the carton body, and a mating portion of the closure adhered to a flange of a lid of the carton, such that the closure portions overlap with the lid closed. Each closure portion has an exposed surface defining a series of tapered ridges, each formed as a row of tapered scallops, spaced apart in a box lid closing direction, such that the ridges of one closure portion sequentially engage the ridges of the other closure portion as the lid is closed, to hold the lid in its closed position. The closure is subsequently released by flexure of the carton body or lid to separate the engaged ridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Velcro BVBA
    Inventor: Arjan van Waarden
  • Patent number: 10011398
    Abstract: A reclosable bag zipper having a female profile assembly that terminates in a first curled end. A male profile assembly opposes the female profile assembly to selectively close the opening. The male profile assembly terminates in a second curled end. A riser is formed by non-uniform portions of the curled ends at one end of the bag. The slider has a dividing member and depending opposing first and second sides that define a central channel for receiving the curled ends. The curled ends create a distal bias against the slider, wherein: the first and second sides engage the profiles when moved in a closing direction; the dividing member separates the profiles when moved in an opening direction opposite to the closing direction; and when the slider is moved in the closing direction onto the riser, the dividing member moves distally away from the profiles so that the zipper may be fully closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Inventor: Stephen G. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 9981780
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for closing bags or the like, including two complementary profile members (A, B), characterized in that each of the two complementary profile members includes at least two profiled attachment elements (112, 114, 116, 118) for which form a multiple closure, in that said profiled elements for attachment have flattened portions (300) distributed over the length thereof, and in that said profiled attachment elements are supported by at least one respective support mat (102, 104) on which said profiled attachment elements are integrally formed, wherein the support mat is to be attached onto a support wall (500) and has a width (14) that is greater than the total width (13) of the profiled attachment elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: S2F FLEXICO
    Inventor: William Delasalle
  • Patent number: 9925671
    Abstract: A tool holder assembly, comprising, a first part (30) which is configured such that it is attachable to a mobile vehicle (50); and a second part (31) which is configured to cooperate with a tool (6); wherein the first and second parts (30,31) each comprises, a first flexible arm (8,10) and a second flexible arm (9,11) and one or more slots (14,15); wherein the first and second parts (30,31) are configured such that they can be arranged so that at least a portion (16,17,18,19) of the first and second flexible arms (8,9,10,11) of the each of the first and second parts (30,31) may be simultaneously received into the one or more slots (14,15) of the other part (30,31); and such that when the portion (16,17,18,19) of the first and second flexible arms (8,9,10,11) of the each of the first and second parts (30,31) are simultaneously received into the one or more slots (14,15) of the other part (30,31), the first and second flexible arms (8,9,10,11) of each part (30,31) are in a flexed position so that an elastic for
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: IMINA Technologies SA
    Inventors: Patrick Eugster, Fabien Tache, Guillaume Boetsch, Benoit Dagon
  • Publication number: 20140053376
    Abstract: A seaming element for seaming an industrial textile, an industrial textile, and a method of seaming. A first region of the seaming element comprises at least one securing member, and a second region is securable to the textile. Spaced-apart protrusions in the securing members are interdigitatable with corresponding protrusions in an opposing element, or the other seamable edge of the textile. Opposing protrusions are interdigitated to define first and second channels for securing means. Where the seaming element has two or more securing members, the protrusions of the outer securing member are aligned with those of an inner securing member of the opposing element, and the protrusions of an inner securing member are aligned with those of the outer securing member of the opposing element. Where the securing means is a pintle, the free ends can be inserted back into the channel to secure the seam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: AstenJohnson, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan R. Manninen
  • Patent number: 8646156
    Abstract: A vacuum press fit zipper assembly designed for watersports apparel and gear and other water related applications. Overmolding construction forms an effective seal around the entire perimeter of the fastener assembly, and a vacuum fit is created between the two mating portions of the zipper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Subzipper, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent Harrison Brightman
  • Patent number: 8481135
    Abstract: This engaging member includes a male part and a female part each of which is capable of engaging with each other, in which each of the male part and the female part has a welded part to a main body of a bag and a part other than the welded part, at least the welded part is formed by a resin composition including (A) a polypropylene type resin having a maximum melting peak temperature measured by a differential calorimeter of not more than 145° C., and a melt flow rate ranging from 0.5 g/10 min. to 20 g/10 min., and (B) a polybutene type resin having a maximum melting peak temperature measured by a differential calorimeter of not more than 130° C., and a melt flow rate ranging from 0.1 g/10 min. to 20 g/10 min.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: C.I. Kasei Company, Limited
    Inventors: Masayoshi Nakajima, Naoki Hatakeyama
  • Patent number: 8464405
    Abstract: A clasp according to an embodiment of the invention has a first annular body and a second annular body, the first annular body extending along an outer surface on one side of a semispherical portion of the spherical jewelry product, and the second annular body extending along an outer surface on the other side of the semispherical portion of the spherical jewelry product. In the case where two adjacent clasps are used so as to form a pair and in the case where the pair of clasps are closed, the shape of the proximal end of each of the first and second annular bodies is configured such that the proximal end in one clasp extends so as to pass through the inside of the other clasp and such that the proximal end in the other clasp extends so as to pass through the inside of one clasp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Mikimoto
    Inventor: Yukiko Takeuchi
  • Publication number: 20130133163
    Abstract: A fastening member has an inboard end and an outboard end. The fastening member comprises a base substrate comprising a panel region disposed adjacent to the inboard end and an end region disposed adjacent to the outboard end. The end region comprises a fastening element zone having a first stiffness and an intermediate zone having a second stiffness. The intermediate zone is disposed between the fastening element zone and the panel region adjacent to an interface between the panel region and the end region. The fastening member comprises a fastening element disposed in the fastening element zone and joined to the base substrate and a bonding agent disposed intermediate the fastening element and the base substrate. The bonding agent comprises a molten polymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
    Inventor: The Procter & Gamble Company
  • Patent number: 8438706
    Abstract: A vacuum press fit zipper assembly designed for watersports apparel and gear and other water related applications. Overmolding construction forms an effective seal around the entire perimeter of the fastener assembly, and a vacuum fit is created between the two mating portions of the zipper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Subzipper, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent Harrison Brightman
  • Patent number: 8096520
    Abstract: An array of U-shaped flanged brackets and flange tipped posts attached to a supporting surface providing a mechanical connection with an object that is provided with corresponding posts and brackets. The brackets and posts can include electrical contacts or fiber optic contacts for transferring power or signals between connected objects. Various objects can be mounted on the array of brackets and posts to provide positioning flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventors: Cheryl L. Sohn, Douglas C. Sohn
  • Patent number: 8037631
    Abstract: A display mounting kit, system, and method are disclosed utilizing first and second primary releasable attachment elements that are secured about the periphery of a display panel and in a substantially corresponding relationship on a mounting surface, respectively. At least one supplementary fastening element having two interlocking component pieces for selective engagement with each other provides secure mounting between the display panel and the mounting surface. The at least one supplementary fastening element can also be utilized as a stand-alone primary fastening element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Truck Ads, LLC
    Inventor: Rod Harris
  • Patent number: 7867212
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing fastener ears for absorbent articles and other garments includes the step of cutting a wave-shaped pattern along the longitudinal axis of an elongated strip of material. The wave-shaped cutting pattern is substantially centered along the strip and divides the strip into a first web and a second web. Each web has a series of ear shapes, with each ear shape having a wave crest portion. Each wave crest portion has a first edge with a convex curvature. The method also includes the step of cutting each of the ear shapes out of its respective web to form a plurality of fastener ears. A fastener ear formed by such method is also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: First Quality Retail Services, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Waksmundzki, Mike Bond
  • Publication number: 20100175230
    Abstract: A waterproof fastening device is provided. The fastening device includes a first fastening member and second fastening member, both having mating surfaces that include rails and channels therein. The fastening devices further include mateable openings and projections therein that cooperate to impart a waterproof seal that is resistant to pull-out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: William D. Kelsey, D. Scott Wolf, Benjamin Meager
  • Patent number: 7726081
    Abstract: A modular wind abatement system comprises a plurality of net components, net-to-net connection hardware, net-to-ground anchors and net-to-building anchors. Flexible net-like sheet components are configured and joined into a suitably sized and shaped web fitted in covering relation with a structure, such as a home, building, billboard, motor home, boat, or any other outdoor thing to be protected. Net component sections are joined together to form suitably sized and shaped web using clamp devices. Once formed the web is secured to the ground in at least partial covering relation with the protected structure by suitable ground anchors such that wind forces are transferred to ground anchors. The present invention thus provides a wind abatement device suitable for protecting a wide variety of structures and property from damage resulting from hurricane force winds and windborne debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventors: Frank L. Bennardo, Michael Madden
  • Publication number: 20100107298
    Abstract: A fastener (1) comprises at least two fastener halves (3A, 3B) each of which comprises a main body (7A, 7B) and a finger (9A, 9B) depending therefrom, the finger (9A, 9B) being spaced apart from the main body (7A, 7B) so as to define a recess (13A, 13B) between the body (7A, 7B) and the finger (9A, 9B). The recess (13A, 13B) receives, in use, the finger (9B, 9A) of the other fastener half (3A, 3B) to fasten the fastener halves (3A, 3B) together. At least one of the recess (13A, 13B) of one fastener half (3A, 3B) and the finger (9A, 9B) of the other fastener half (3A, 3B) comprises a concave mating formation arranged to engage in use with a convex mating formation (15A, 15B) provided on the finger (9A, 9B) of the other fastener half (3A, 3B) or on the recess (13A, 13B) of the one fastener half (3A, 3B) respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Nigel Coole
  • Publication number: 20090307945
    Abstract: A removable luggage identification apparatus includes a substantially planar body, a plurality of fastener seats, each fastener seat being located near the perimeter of the body, and a plurality of mechanical fastener members, each fastener member being located and configured so that a retaining head of each fastener member is significantly laterally shielded by physical structures of the indicia body, thereby preventing the fastener members from being snagged by lateral contact with external objects. A corresponding method of identifying luggage is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: David W. Bopp, Randall W. North
  • Publication number: 20090307883
    Abstract: A holding element for fastening in a hole of a carrier part has a central shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, a supporting part fastened to the far end of the shaft and projecting laterally, and at least one arm, a fastening end of which is fastened movable to the shaft. The arm extends transverse to the longitudinal axis and for some distance from the shaft and in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis is supportable on the supporting part and in the opposite direction is supportable on a guide part fastened to the front end of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: NEWFREY LLC
    Inventor: Lothar SCHLIESSNER
  • Publication number: 20090294390
    Abstract: A product display assembly having a tester security apparatus for at least one tester of a product, includes a base having a top surface, and at least one tester holder disposed on the top surface of the base, wherein each of the at least one tester holder is adapted for receiving and reversibly retaining a tester. The product display assembly includes at least one retractor each corresponding to the at least one tester holder disposed on the top surface of the base, wherein the retractor each has a retractable line located therein with a free end extending therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Benjamin Weshler
  • Publication number: 20090226119
    Abstract: This packaging bag with a fastener is one which is produced by fusing a fastener including a male member and a female member being engageable with each other, a joining portion whereby an end of a non-opening side flange portion of the male member is joined with an end of a non-opening side flange portion of the female member, and a ridge portion formed between the joining portion and the flange portion, in which the joining portion has a thickness ranging from not less than 10 ?m to not more than 100 ?m, the ridge portion has a thickness ranging from not less than 200 ?m to not more than 2 mm, the joining portion is thinner than the flange portion, and the ridge portion is thicker than the flange portion, to a bag to form a packaging bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: C.I. KASEI COMPANY, LIMITED
    Inventor: Naoki Hatakeyama
  • Publication number: 20090211066
    Abstract: The invention provides a securing device for use in securing an object to a supporting surface, and/or for restraining an object relative to a supporting surface. The securing device includes a base (20) having a loading region (28) to which a force is applied by the object . The securing device also includes a first securing member (30) and a second securing member (50) for securing the base to the supporting surface, the base (20) pivotably engaging the first securing member (30) in order for the base to be able to transmit a force to the first securing member substantially without inducing a moment about the first securing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Adriaan Retief Swanepoel
  • Publication number: 20090188088
    Abstract: A fastening means is provided for fastening an expansion tank for cooling water of an automobile to a holder. The fastening means includes, but is not limited to a first insertion edge and a second insertion edge, and the second insertion edge is disposed substantially parallel to the first insertion edge, and at a distance there from which is selected in such a manner that a fastening rib may be inserted between the insertion edges. The fastening means further includes, but not limited to a first retaining edge and a second retaining edge for delimiting a pivoting movement of the fastening rib. The second retaining edge is disposed substantially parallel to the first retaining edge and at a distance there from which is selected in such a manner that the fastening rib is pivotable from an insertion position in which the fastening rib is disposed between the insertion edges, into a retaining position in which the fastening rib is disposed between the retaining edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Richard KERKEWITZ, Christoph KRAUSE
  • Patent number: 7559100
    Abstract: There is described an attachment system for attaching a plurality of elements to a resilient body, preferably for attachment of a trim cover to a foam element. The system comprising a first element having attached thereto a first attachment portion and a second element having attached thereto a second attachment portion, the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion being releasably engageable with the resilient body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Woodbridge Foam Corporation
    Inventors: Burkhard Pedde, Philippe Marenne, Michael Hack, Georg Heinl
  • Publication number: 20090013508
    Abstract: An adapter system for the detachable fastening of objects, with two adapter elements (5), wherein one adapter element (5) can be connected to the object to be fastened and the other adapter element (5) can be connected to the corresponding counterpart, and wherein the two adapter elements (5) can be connected detachably to each other, characterized in that the two adapter elements (5) are of identical design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: TESA AG
    Inventors: Bodo zu Putlitz, Udo Dominikat
  • Publication number: 20080276435
    Abstract: A docking seal system has a first flexible enclosure with a first coupling seal and a second flexible enclosure with a second coupling seal. Each of the coupling seals has first and second sealing strips. A first zip slide is engageable with the first and second sealing strips of the first coupling seal and a second zip slide is engageable with the first and second sealing strips of the second coupling seal so that the respective first and second coupling seals can be opened and closed. The first and second zip slides are each combined with a respective portion of a coupling slide to form respective combined slides. When the combined slides are combined together, the respective portions of the coupling slides mate together to form the coupling slide, the coupling slide engaging or disengaging the first and second coupling seals so as to dock or separate the first and second flexible enclosures from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: GEA NIRO GMBH
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Ed Piepereit
  • Publication number: 20080244882
    Abstract: A connection device for connecting two structural components is comprising a retaining means in a first structural component and a fixing means for insertion in a second structural component for connecting engagement with said retaining means thereby holding the two structural components together. The fixing means comprises a plug member having a first end and a second end, the said first end comprising an undercut head for insertion in and retaining engagement with said retaining means. The said plug member is comprising means for engagement with said second structural component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: ARCTIUM AS
    Inventors: Knut Woxman, Arne Hansen
  • Patent number: 7150081
    Abstract: A device for joining sets of two or more clothing items, such as socks, gloves or the like, comprises at least two identical components (1, 1?) that can be coupled to each other, as well as a textile item including entire sets of underwear, home linen etc. that incorporates the device for pairing the items when they are washed, dried or stored, preventing having to search for the correct paid of each item before using them. Each of the components (1, 1?) is in turn divided into an outer part (2, 2?) and an inner part (3, 3?) that are also coupled to each other by inserting ribs (5, 5?) provided on the inner face of the outer part (2, 2?) in the orifice (4, 4?) made in the centre of the inner part (3, 3?) so that they are secured in them; the outer, smooth face can bear advertising symbols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Industrias Sinteticas Catalanas, S.L.
    Inventor: Sergio Nolla Juan
  • Patent number: 6859982
    Abstract: The present invention provides a connector for releasable joining of two ends of material. The invention involves two generally symmetrical connector halves which engage with one another to maintain a connection capable of resisting opposing tension forces. A spring-force ball and socket arrangement is incorporated in each body half to maintain a secure connection. Rotatable interlocking tongue-and-groove structures provide ease of use and effective resistance to tension forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Mario R. Carrillo
  • Patent number: 6854886
    Abstract: A watertight closure for a reclosable package has first and second mutually interlocking profiles. Together, the profiles have two sets of interlocking members, one on either side of a central portion. There, at least one profile has a collapsible member in its central portion. The other profile may have a compressing member or a collapsible member opposite to the collapsible member, or it may have neither. In any event, when the first and second mutually interlocking profiles are joined to one another, the collapsible member encounters and compresses against the other profile to create a watertight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Piechocki, Steven Ausnit
  • Publication number: 20040261234
    Abstract: A fastener strip is disclosed having a permanently sealed, airtight portion and a reclosable portion capable of maintaining an airtight seal when closed. The permanently sealed portion is generally planar and essentially impervious to air flow. The reclosable portion includes a ridge and a trough joined at their adjacent ends to a plug, which prevents air from leaking from the adjacent end of the reclosable portion. Additionally, a dam joins the plug to the first backing in an essentially airtight seal, and joins the plug to the second backing in an essentially airtight seal. A method and apparatus for sealing portions of a thermoplastic fastener strip are also disclosed. A method is additionally disclosed for vibrating and molding thermoplastic materials in which a flow of malleable thermoplastic material is initiated and molded with an effectively dimensioned vibrator that is unitary with a first matrix for guiding and molding the malleable polymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Donald K. Wright, Christopher L. Pemberton, James Kendall Hankins
  • Patent number: 6826806
    Abstract: A breakaway closure device that includes the use of a pair of hermaphroditic clips that attach to the ends of a strap, such as a lanyard cord, and also engage with each other. Each hermaphroditic clip includes both a projection and an aperture that permit the hermaphroditic clips to snap together and form a releasable pair of clips. Each hermaphroditic clip further includes a plurality of interlocking pins and receptacles for securing the clip onto the end of the lanyard cord. Each hermaphroditic clip also includes a guidance lug and a plurality of interlocking lugs and openings to facilitate the easy attachment of the clip to the cord ends by hand without the use of special tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Eaton, Richard J. Tracy
  • Publication number: 20040187277
    Abstract: A fastener for an airbag cover, the fastener comprising first and second stringer tapes which are fixed to edges of an opening in the airbag cover. The stringer tapes each have a row of coupling elements mounted thereon, and these link together to connect the stringer tapes. The connection is strong within an area of coupling elements which have been connected, but is easily disengaged from the ends of a region of connected coupling elements. The fastener comprises holding means which hold the tapes together at a predetermined position in the middle region of the fastener. The holding means will release or displace under the force of the airbag expanding. When the airbag expands, e.g. during a car crash, the holding means allows the coupling elements to open, thus opening the fastener and allowing the airbag to expand outside the airbag cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicants: YKK Europe Limited, YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Shunji Akashi, Shigeyoshi Takasawa, Meirion Williams
  • Patent number: 6763556
    Abstract: The invention is a mating film. The mating film comprises a base sheet having a first major surface. A plurality of generally parallel ridges project from the first major surface. The ridges comprise a stem portion attached to the base sheet and generally upright from the base sheet. A head portion of each ridge is spaced from the first major surface and extends generally laterally from the stem portion so as to define a lateral distance. The center of each stem portion of each ridge is spaced from the center of each adjacent ridge stem portion by a distance greater than about 2 times lateral distance defined by the head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Mark E. Fagan, Robert K. Galkiewicz, Scott D. Pearson, Brian E. Spiewak
  • Publication number: 20040128806
    Abstract: A fastener strip is disclosed having a permanently sealed, airtight portion and a reclosable portion capable of maintaining an airtight seal when closed. The permanently sealed portion is generally planar and essentially impervious to air flow. The reclosable portion includes a ridge and a trough joined at their adjacent ends to a plug, which prevents air from leaking from the adjacent end of the reclosable portion. Additionally, a dam joins the plug to the first backing in an essentially airtight seal, and joins the plug to the second backing in an essentially airtight seal. A method and apparatus for sealing portions of a thermoplastic fastener strip are also disclosed. A method is additionally disclosed for vibrating and molding thermoplastic materials in which a flow of malleable thermoplastic material is initiated and molded with an effectively dimensioned vibrator that is unitary with a first matrix for guiding and molding the malleable polymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Donald K. Wright, Christopher L. Pemberton, James Kendall Hankins
  • Patent number: 6708379
    Abstract: A fastening device comprising a pair of attachment pads, one pad having a surface from which stems project, a second pad formed with openings and receptacles, each opening and receptacle adapted to receive a stem, the pads becoming interlocked by the fit of the stems in the receptacles. A woven, knit or knotted material of open texture having holes, preferable evenly spaced holes such as those of a screen or net, is secured between the pads by passing the stems through the mesh and into the receptacles. The pads and mesh material, so arranged, are secured to a structure by a bracket or clamp that is fixed to the attachment pads and mesh material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Eric P. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20040031132
    Abstract: A closure arrangement for a reclosable polymeric bag is disclosed, the closure arrangement comprising convex and concave areas that facilitate opening the bag. To initially open the bag, first and second films are separated from each other by tearing perforations. Next, interlocked closure profiles are detached from each other by grabbing onto gripper ridges and pulling the opening of the bag apart. If the first or second film becomes tucked into the groove left by the perforations such that the gripper ridges are difficult to access even after tearing the perforations, then the end of the opening may be flexed up or down, thereby causing separation of the convex area and concave area to provide access to the gripper ridges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Greg J. VandenHeuvel, Greg W. Melchoir
  • Publication number: 20040025308
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a plastic zipper equipped with a slider which zipper is imparted with high hermetical-sealability and facility in unsealing and reopening/reclosing; further a plastic zipper equipped with a slider which zipper is imparted in addition thereto with a function capable of detection of its having been unsealed after sealing packaging; and a bag body fitted with the zipper with a slider attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Juichi Kasai
  • Patent number: 6546604
    Abstract: A new self-mating mechanical fastener is disclosed, which comprises a base sheet and a multiplicity of parallel, narrowly spaced, elastically deformable ribs projecting from the base sheet. The ribs comprise a stem portion attached to and substantially upright from the base sheet and at least one flange attached to each side of the stem portion and spaced from the base sheet. At least the outer portions of the flanges desirably project toward the base sheet. The cross-sectional profile formed by the ribs is substantially uniform over the length of the ribs, but in the direction transverse to the ribs has a regularly repeated deviation from the profile that would be formed by a full population of equally spaced, identical, undivided, symmetric ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Robert K. Galkiewicz, Graham M. Clarke, Ronald W. Ausen, Brian E. Spiewak
  • Publication number: 20030051320
    Abstract: The invention is a mating film. The mating film comprises a base sheet having a first major surface. A plurality of generally parallel ridges project from the first major surface. The ridges comprise a stem portion attached to the base sheet and generally upright from the base sheet. A head portion of each ridge is spaced from the first major surface and extends generally laterally from the stem portion so as to define a lateral distance. The center of each stem portion of each ridge is spaced from the center of each adjacent ridge stem portion by a distance greater than about 2 times lateral distance defined by the head portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Mark E. Fagan, Robert K. Galkiewicz, Scott D. Pearson, Brian E. Spiewak
  • Publication number: 20020116794
    Abstract: Magnetic clasps for securing the opposed ends of chains and other jewelry. Each clasp includes an arrangement for securing separable bodies by means of magnets that have been poled to present opposed surfaces of opposite magnetic polarities. In a first embodiment, disk-like magnets are received in channels of mating elongated body members of like configuration. End flanges of the elongated body members, in addition to the disk-like magnets, provide axial resistance to separation while the resultant magnetic force prevents separation in the transverse direction. In a second embodiment, disk-like magnets of divided polarities are seated at ends of mating bodies. A pin-and-slot locking mechanism is formed in the two bodies and the magnets are oriented relative thereto so that resultant repulsive magnetic forces force the two magnets into mating alignment when in the longitudinal slot for maximum magnetic holding force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Leslie C. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6401308
    Abstract: From the “face” side of the base (12) of the male part (4), an engagement protrusion (18) extends directly upwards in the direction of the engagement socket (18). On the surface of the engagement socket (14) side of the base (12), a slanting surface (12a) parallel with the protrusion-forming slanting surface (18b) is formed. From the “face” side of the base (20) of the male part (8), an engagement protrusion (23) extends diagonally downwards in the direction of the engagement socket (21). On both sides of the step (23c), a wall (23e) is provided. On the “face” side of the engagement socket (21) of the base (20), a slanting surface (20a) parallel with the protrusion-forming slanting surface (23b) is formed. The snap fastener has directionality in respect not only of disengagement but also of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Morito Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahiko Kawahara
  • Patent number: 6367128
    Abstract: A new self-mating mechanical fastener is disclosed, which comprises a base sheet and a multiplicity of parallel, narrowly spaced, elastically deformable ribs projecting from the base sheet. The ribs comprise a stem portion attached to and substantially upright from the base sheet and at least one flange attached to each side of the stem portion and spaced from the base sheet. At least the outer portions of the flanges desirably project toward the base sheet. The cross-sectional profile formed by the ribs is substantially uniform over the length of the ribs, but in the direction transverse to the ribs has a regularly repeated deviation from the profile that would be formed by a full population of equally spaced, identical, undivided, symmetric ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Robert K. Galkiewicz, Graham M. Clarke, Ronald W. Ausen, Brian E. Spiewak