Interlocking Portion Actuated Or Released Responsive To Preselected Condition (e.g., Heat, Pressure) Patents (Class 24/602)
  • Patent number: 11653722
    Abstract: A safety belt buckle includes a buckle body, a plurality of latch plates, and a dustproof cover. The buckle body includes a base having a plurality of insertion slots. The dustproof cover is mounted on the base and has a plurality of passages. Each of the latch plates has a locking portion inserted through one of the passages of the dustproof cover into one of the insertion slots of the base. The locking portion has a clamping section arranged between each of the latch plates and the base. The clamping section of each of the latch plates seals one of the passages of the dustproof cover and stops one of the insertion slots of the base. The locking portion of each of the latch plates is clamped by one of the passages of the dustproof cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: TAIWAN RACING PRODUCTS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Yuan Wu
  • Patent number: 11313397
    Abstract: A releasable-positively-locking-connection (RPLC) between first/second bodies, including: a) a linear-guide between first/second bodies, so that the linear-guide is engage-able; b) a separate-securing-element, fastened releasably by one end in a first-opening in the first-body and/or in a third-opening in a third-body, so that the securing-element protrudes from the first-opening; and c) a second-body section, which is deformable elastically by the separate-securing-element in the longitudinal-axis-direction of the separate-securing-element and has a stop-face, with which the separate-securing-element is contactable; d) the elastically-deformable-section and separate-securing-element interact, e) to assemble the RPLC, e1) the linear guide is engaged between first/second bodies, and e2) first, the first-body is guided linearly in an assembly-direction along the linear-guide, the elastically-deformable-section being contacted by the separate-securing-element which protrudes out of the first-opening, and deforme
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE SYSTEME FUER NUTZFAHRZEUGE GMBH
    Inventor: Hasan-Oezkan Karagoez
  • Patent number: 11129367
    Abstract: A dog leash attachment system for selectively and releasably attaching a dog leash to a dog collar or harness, wherein the dog leash and the dog collar or dog harness each comprises a portion of a fastener device further comprising at least one magnetic attachment component and at least one mechanical attachment component. One portion of the fastener device is attached in fixed relation to the dog leash at a position proximal to the distal end of the dog leash. Another magnet is disclosed for use in maintaining a portion of the fastener device proximally to the collar or harness when the leash is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Magdog, LLC
    Inventor: Michael W. Brian
  • Patent number: 10918089
    Abstract: A pet grooming station includes an electrically actuated separable coupler mechanically coupled between a tether point and a lead to a collar or a noose. At least one wired or wirelessly coupled pressure sensitive mat is adapted to sense a presence of a person or an animal on the at least one pressure sensitive mat. The electrically actuated separable coupler is in a coupled state when the pressure sensitive mat senses the presence of the person standing on the mat. Or, when the person is no longer standing on the mat, the electrically actuated separable coupler separates. The electronic controls of the station can be programmed to provide a predetermined or selectable time delay in a range of about 0 to 2 seconds before causing the electrically actuate separable coupler to separate. An upgrade kit or modification kit for existing pet grooming stations is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Inventor: Carmen Cesta
  • Patent number: 10807727
    Abstract: A releasable restraint for an inflatable slide is disclosed, in accordance with various embodiments. The releasable restraint may comprise a first mating portion having a receptacle. The releasable restraint may comprise a second mating portion having a protrusion. The protrusion may be configured to fit within the receptacle. An adjustment fastener may be coupled to the receptacle and configured to adjust a coupling strength of the releasable restraint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy C Haynes, Drew Hartman
  • Patent number: 10618496
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety belt buckle, and more specifically, to a safety belt buckle which can stably detect whether a driver's safety belt is fastened even when foreign materials or water is introduced into the buckle in the case of being fastened with a tongue of a safety belt. In the safety belt buckle according to the present invention, a switch that detects whether a tongue of a safety belt is fastened is blocked from coming into direct contact with water or foreign materials, which are introduced from the outside, so as to stably detect fastening or unfastening of the tongue of the safety belt, and thus the safety belt buckle can be stably operated even when mounted in a seat exposed to the outside such as a seat of a forklift or a tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: YOUFRIEND CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Young Goun Roo, Min Park
  • Patent number: 9666062
    Abstract: The emergency alert system may include a device/emergency kit container, or may be incorporated into a belt, harness, or other personal protective equipment. The system may include a zipper slider, a zipper, access tab, alert device, and non-conductive pull tab. When the non-conductive pull tab is pulled, the alert device is triggered, and alerts monitors that an emergency situation has occurred involving traumatic injury and alerting the monitors of the location of the emergency situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Inventor: Frank G. Rachal
  • Patent number: 9284181
    Abstract: A quick release coupling for horse control gear having a rein clip having a first shaft. A trigger snip clap is attached to a clip attachment portion of the rein clip. A male attachment piece is disposed upon a second end of the first shaft. A female attachment piece includes a second shaft. A swivel harness attachment, an inner ring, and an outer ring are each retained by the second shaft. The inner ring and the outer ring have a first inner cavity and a second inner cavity, respectively. The male attachment piece is configured to reversibly engage the first inner cavity. A plurality of ball bearings, and a plurality of torsion springs are retained within retention chambers. A notch is disposed upon an inner face of the outer ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Inventor: Tim Nieslanik
  • Patent number: 9084452
    Abstract: A water activated restraint release that is designed to be retrofitted onto an existing restraint system. The water activated restraint release includes a buckle and a tang to be secured to the buckle. The buckle includes a release mechanism and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly causes the release mechanism to release the tang in the presence of water, thereby releasing a passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Carleton Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Blackman, Brian Ford, Tom Yandle
  • Patent number: 8869500
    Abstract: A fusible link is described comprising a first member selectively coupled to a second member via a connection member. The connection member is retained by way of first and second stop members that are defined in the second member and bear against the connection member and the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Dunn Investment, LLC
    Inventor: Greg Thurlow
  • Publication number: 20140026376
    Abstract: A device (2) which can be formed into safety link comprising a flexible, longitudinally elongate member having engagable first and second portions (4, 6); the first end portion (4) including a recess (8) which is open-ended in the longitudinal direction and defined, at least in part, by a pair of opposed interior side walls (10, 12); the second end portion (6) having sidewalls (18, 20) that are complementary to the sidewalls (10, 12) of the recess (8) so that the second end portion (6) is a push-fit in the recess (8); at least one pair of the complementary side-walls being non-planar so as to retain the first end portion (4) in the recess (8) against a longitudinally applied force until it is sufficient to move the side-walls (10, 12) of the recess (8) apart to release the second end portion (6) from the recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: SAFETY RELEASE LTD.
    Inventor: Martin Phillip Bruce Smith
  • Patent number: 8631545
    Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary buckle assembly for harness. The assembly is adapted to selectively secure or eject the tongue plates for the straps of the harness. The buckle assembly includes a mechanism for automatically releasing the harness in the presence of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Carleton Life Support Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Ford, Kevin Holler
  • Patent number: 8578569
    Abstract: A mechanical coupler that separates at a pre-determined ambient pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Stephen Ray Karnoski, Dennis Michael How, James F. Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20130212845
    Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary buckle assembly for harness. The assembly is adapted to selectively secure or eject the tongue plates for the straps of the harness. The buckle assembly includes a mechanism for automatically releasing the harness in the presence of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: CONAX FLORIDA CORPORATION
    Inventor: CONAX FLORIDA CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8434201
    Abstract: A magnetic fastener includes first and second lock bodies engaged with each other. The first lock body includes a first magnet and a fastener body. The first magnet is defined with a through hole extending through the two opposite end surfaces of the first magnet. The fastener body is movably received in the through hole. The fastener body includes a main body, an interface part disposed at one end of the main body, and a plurality of elastic arms extending outward from the other end of the main body. The interface part passes through the through hole. A receiving space is defined between the elastic arms. The inner side of the free end of the elastic arms is respectively provided with a clasp. The second lock body includes a second magnet and a hook body connected to the second magnet. The hook body is provided with a buckling part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Kueisheng Wang
  • Patent number: 8375530
    Abstract: A buckle assembly for a vehicle includes a seat belt tongue and a seat belt buckle with a blocking mechanism and a manual release button. The blocking mechanism is configured to latch the tongue in the buckle. The buckle assembly further includes a remote buckle release mechanism, including a buckle release cable and a module operably connected to the cable. The module is configured to pull the cable to release the blocking mechanism to thereby release the seat belt tongue from the buckle. The buckle assembly is also configured to be actuated by an occupant via the manual release button on the buckle. The remote buckle release mechanism does not interfere with operation of the manual release button. The remote buckle release mechanism may also be configured to automatically release the buckles a predetermined time after an airbag deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: TK Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Glenn Walega, Thomas Grzybowski, Brandon Scott Marriott, Nicklaus John Pelliccia
  • Publication number: 20120131772
    Abstract: A holding dowel (10) for fastening a fastening means to a component (22), in particular to a vehicle body part, is adapted to be inserted into and arrested in an opening (20) of the component (22) and has a mount (26) for the fastening means. The holding dowel (10) has a base body (12) made from a hard material, which protrudes into the opening (20) and is adapted to fix the holding dowel (10) in place in the opening (20), and further has a sealing member (18) made from a flexible plastic material, which includes a surrounding sealing lip (38). In the installed condition of the holding dowel (10), the sealing lip (38) rests against the component (22) and seals the opening (20) of the component (22). The sealing member (18) is produced at least partly from a material which under the influence of heat establishes a substance-to-substance bond with the component (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Juergen Hofmann, Michael Demerath
  • Patent number: 8127409
    Abstract: The safety belt release mechanism includes sensor and belt release components. The sensor is installed at a low point within the vehicle. The sensor contains water-soluble material that retains a spring in compression so long as the water-soluble material is dry. If the vehicle is immersed in water, the water-soluble material dissolves, releasing the spring. In one embodiment, the spring drives a pin into a pressurized gas (e.g., CO2) cartridge, releasing the gas therein. The gas passes through a tube to the belt release component installed upon a belt latch mechanism, driving a pin from an engaged position in the latch to release the latch. In another embodiment, the spring acts directly to drive the latch pin from the engaged position to release the latch. While one such assembly is disclosed herein, it is most preferred that one such assembly be installed along each safety belt assembly of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Julien Edwin Roy, Douglas Clifton Cruthirds
  • Publication number: 20110302751
    Abstract: The safety belt release mechanism includes sensor and belt release components. The sensor is installed at a low point within the vehicle. The sensor contains water-soluble material that retains a spring in compression so long as the water-soluble material is dry. If the vehicle is immersed in water, the water-soluble material dissolves, releasing the spring. In one embodiment, the spring drives a pin into a pressurized gas (e.g., CO2) cartridge, releasing the gas therein. The gas passes through a tube to the belt release component installed upon a belt latch mechanism, driving a pin from an engaged position in the latch to release the latch. In another embodiment, the spring acts directly to drive the latch pin from the engaged position to release the latch. While one such assembly is disclosed herein, it is most preferred that one such assembly be installed along each safety belt assembly of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventors: JULIEN EDWIN ROY, Douglas Clifton Cruthirds
  • Patent number: 7971908
    Abstract: A seat assembly includes a seat of a vehicle, a safety belt, and a guide assembly. The seat includes a seat back and an attachment feature that is operatively connected to the seat back. The safety belt includes webbing that is configured to extend in a generally diagonal direction across the seat back. The guide assembly includes a clip, a cord, an attachment mechanism, and a breakaway mechanism. The clip is configured for operative attachment to the webbing of the safety belt. The cord operatively extends from the clip. The attachment mechanism is operatively connected to the cord. The attachment mechanism is configured for selective attachment to the attachment feature of the seat back. The breakaway mechanism operatively interconnects the cord and the clip and is configured to separate such that the cord pulls free from the clip upon the application of a force to the clip or the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Carol C. Hathaway, Thomas M. DiMambro, Alfred A. Jefferson, Steven G. Corrion, Thomas Tilly, Leslie A. Sajovec
  • Patent number: 7941902
    Abstract: The safety belt release mechanism includes a sensor component and a belt release component. The sensor component is installed at a low point within the vehicle. The sensor component contains a water-soluble material that retains a spring in its compressed state so long as the water-soluble material is dry. If the vehicle is immersed in water, the water-soluble material dissolves, releasing the spring. The spring drives a pin into the end of a pressurized gas (e.g., CO2) cartridge, releasing the gas therein. The gas passes through a tube to the belt release component installed upon a belt latch mechanism to drive a pin from an engaged position in the latch to release the latch. While one such assembly is disclosed herein, it is most preferred that one such assembly be installed along each safety belt assembly of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventors: Julien Edwin Roy, Douglas Clifton Cruthirds
  • Patent number: 7836564
    Abstract: Mechanically interlocking releasable fastener systems include a reinforced shape memory polymer for forming one of the interlocking components. The reinforced shape memory polymer includes a filler material in the form of a fiber and/or platelet. The filler can include an electrically conductive filler, a thermally conductive filler, a dielectric fillers, and mixtures thereof. Also disclosed herein are processes for using the releasable fastener systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: William Barvosa-Carter, Andrew C. Keefe, Alan L. Browne
  • Patent number: 7610783
    Abstract: The invention discloses several types of fastener, fastening systems, fastener assemblies and related areas. In particular, the invention discloses a releasable fastening system (150) which has a pin (152) with a locking cavity (163). The pin is intended for insertion in an aperture (154). A locking means (158, 160) engages the locking cavity (163) of the pin (152) when the pin (152) is received in the aperture (154). The system (150) also includes unlocking means (162) which includes material adapted to contract when activated. When a material contracts, engagement means (158) included in the locking means (158, 160), disengage the locking cavity (154).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Telezygology Inc.
    Inventors: Dickory Rudduck, Lachlan Richard Goldspink, Nicholas Anthony Ng, Lee David Blattmann, Joshua Robert Park, Christopher Gerarh Kelliher, Edward David Farren-Price
  • Patent number: 7600301
    Abstract: In the first aspect, the invention provides a fastener which includes a fastening element and an actuating means attached to the fastening element. The fastening element has a flexible beam and an engagement means. The actuating means includes a material, such as shape memory alloy, which contracts when activated. When the material is contracted, the beam moves between an engagement position and a disengagement position. In a second aspect, the invention provides a fastener for use in a network of fasteners. The fastener has address means which serve to distinguish the fastener from the other fasteners in the network. The fastener may be the same as the fastener in the first aspect of the invention, or a different fastener. A network or system of such fasteners is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Telezygology, Inc.
    Inventors: Dickory Rudduck, Lachlan Richard Goldspink, Geoffrey David Sizer, Lee David Blattmann, Edward David James Farren-Price, Joshua Robert Park
  • Publication number: 20080060175
    Abstract: Mechanically interlocking releasable fastener systems include a reinforced shape memory polymer for forming one of the interlocking components. The reinforced shape memory polymer includes a filler material in the form of a fiber and/or platelet. The filler can include an electrically conductive filler, a thermally conductive filler, a dielectric fillers, and mixtures thereof. Also disclosed herein are processes for using the releasable fastener systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: William Barvosa-Carter, Andrew C. Keefe, Alan L. Browne
  • Patent number: 7318258
    Abstract: The present invention relates to clips holding cables to form a predetermined pattern in a security fence and combusted with heat or impact from outside to cut off or destroy the cables, immediately raising an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Huneed Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hong-Gi Chun
  • Patent number: 7318251
    Abstract: A safety buckle of a curtain comprises a curtain body and an upper beam; an auto slide-stop installed within the upper beam for controlling the curtain body to a predetermined position; and a control rope set having a first end and a second end which are at opposite sides. The first end is a rope and the second end. The safety buckle comprises a male pin having a body portion and a guide end. The body portion is positioned at a bottom of the guide end and is connected to a distal end of the rope. A female pin is firmly secured to the upper beam and has a pin seat. The pin seat is formed with a hollow guide hole. When the ropes are pulled, the male pin is separated from the female pin so that the upper beam and the ropes are in a safe state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Lewis Hyman, Inc.
    Inventor: Tzong-Fu Lin
  • Patent number: 7144037
    Abstract: A safety device is disclosed which is configured to be actuated by the supply of gas. The safety device incorporates an outlet vent pipe which is sealed by a releasable clip. The releasable clip has a first elongate main gripping element and a second elongate moveable gripping element. The main gripping element has a retaining element to retain one end of the moveable gripping element. The safety device also includes an arrangement to retain the other end of the moveable gripping element in a predetermined position such that the clip may grip a fabric tube or the like between the main gripping element and the moveable gripping element. A mechanism is provided which responds to a supply signal to move the other end of the moveable gripping element to release the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Autoliv Development AB
    Inventors: Peter Qvint, Mats Karlin
  • Patent number: 7100251
    Abstract: A breakaway buckle has a keeper attachable to a first strap and a secure attachable to a second laterally disposed strap. The secure has a tongue releasably retained in the keeper by overlapping interlocked locking surfaces on both components. Cam surfaces on the secure and keeper coact in response to lateral and/or torsional forces exerted on the secure to reduce the area of overlap between the locking surfaces and thereby facilitate separation of the secure from the keeper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: IIlinois Tool Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank A. Howell
  • Patent number: 7086446
    Abstract: A cord connection device for roll-up shades has a coupling member that fits over a receptive member. The body of the receptive member has a section configured to receive the coupling member in a manner to provide a connection such that when a selected force acts on a cord attached to the coupling member or the receptive member the coupling member will separate from the receptive member. The body of the receptive member can have a second section configured to receive the coupling member in a manner to provide a connection such that the coupling member will not separate from the receptive member or can have a third section configured such that the coupling member will separate when a second selected force acts on the cord or can have all three sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Lumino, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Kollman, Adam Ward
  • Patent number: 7055901
    Abstract: The invention involves a seat system with a movable and immovable portions that may be maintained and still operate during transients as required under the federal regulations. There is a quick release serviceability latch for a school bus passenger seat with integrated restraints. The inner and outer seat backs must be quickly detached from one another to facilitate repair or replacement of damaged seat components. A movable plunger is rigidly attached to the inner seat back frame. Another bracket with hole to accept the plunger is rigidly attached to the back pan of the outer back. The attachment of inner to outer seat backs must be strong enough so that they can't be pulled apart by hand but at the same time be detachable in the event of a crash. A tab that engages the plunger separates upon a rapid deceleration event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas R. Graham, Erik K. Nelson, Patrick J. Mattes, Erik C. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7017230
    Abstract: A safety buckle of a curtain comprises a curtain body and an upper beam; an auto slide-stop installed within the upper beam for controlling the curtain body to a predetermined position; and a control rope set having a first end and a second end which are at opposite sides. The first end is a rope and the second end. The safety buckle comprises a male pin having a body portion and a guide end. The body portion is positioned at a bottom of the guide end and is connected to a distal end of the rope. A female pin is firmly secured to the upper beam and has a pin seat. The pin seat is formed with a hollow guide hole. When the ropes are pulled, the male pin is separated from the female pin so that the upper beam and the ropes are in a safe state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Lewis Hyman, Inc.
    Inventor: Tzong-Fu Lin
  • Patent number: 7013538
    Abstract: A releasable fastening system for retaining two surfaces at each other or disengaging the two surfaces from each other comprises a first electrode disposed at a first surface, a second electrode disposed at a second surface, and a polymer film disposed between the first and second electrode, and an electrolyte disposed in electrical communication with the first electrode, the polymer film, and the second electrode. A volume of the polymer film is controllably variable to cause the retention of the first surface at the second surface. A method of releasably fastening adjacently-positioned surfaces comprises disposing a first electrode at a first surface, disposing a second electrode at a second surface, and increasing the volume of an electrolyte disposed in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode to cause the retention of the first surface at the second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Lampe Browne, William Barvosa-Carter, Nancy L. Johnson, Leslie A. Momoda, Thomas B. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6948546
    Abstract: A cord retaining device for non-cord Venetian blinds include two sheltering caps, two snap members, two fixing seats, and two double-sided adhesive pieces wherein the sheltering cap has a registration cavity defined at the bottom side therein, and a through hole disposed at the top thereon. The snap member, shaped in form conforming to that of the registration cavity of the sheltering cap, has a support piece with a cord passage protruding at the top thereon, and an arc-shaped retaining cavity with an outwardly extended guide arc indented at the bottom side therein. The fixing seat has a solid coupling ball block extending at the top surface of a base thereon in match to the retaining cavity thereof, and the double-sided adhesive piece is shaped like the base of the fixing seat thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Leslie Nien
  • Patent number: 6948220
    Abstract: A pet collar buckle structure comprised of a plastic male member and female member. The male member consists of a stepped round face at its front end, an outer circular surface protruding from the round surface and, furthermore, a lateral notch formed in the two sides of the round face. The female member has an interior space between a surface section and two elastic clips, each elastic clip having a narrow slot formed along the outer side as well as a convex section and a concave section contiguously articulated along the inner side. As such, the male member becomes tightly ensconced following insertion into the female member, but when the male member and the female member are subjected to a certain pulling force, the male member is safely released without dead angle occurrence from the trailing end and bottom surface of the female member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Ying-Chih Chen
  • Publication number: 20040194264
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a release device, especially in relation to a buckle of a safety helmet or a safety belt. It is significant of the release device according to the present invention that the device comprises a first element (1) and a second element (3) that are pivotally connected to each other via a hinge (9), means (10) of one element (1) to connect one end of the strap/belt, a yieldable release means (14) and an anchoring element (17) connected to the other end of the strap/belt, that the anchoring element (17) is connected in a releasable way to the elements (1, 3), and that a force (F1) is applied to the release means (14) when the anchoring element (17) is subjected to force (F2) that strives to separate the anchoring element (17) from the elements (1, 3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Malte Johansson
  • Patent number: 6776116
    Abstract: A swivel/quick release device having a shaft adapted to receive a load at one end operated associated with a bearing means at its other end; a housing in which said shaft is slidably mounted. A release and attachment means is disposed in the housing around the bearing means releasably retaining an attachment for a tow rope. Spring means is present within the housing and engaging the shaft such that as a load is increasingly applied to one end of the shaft, the spring means is compressed within the housing until the attachment for a tow rope is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Murphy, Donald M. Erb, Jr., Charles D. Peterson, Stephen G. Conover
  • Patent number: 6682249
    Abstract: A re-attachable breakaway safety connector is disclosed which is adapted for use with a rope or other objects arranged in at least a substantially linear manner such that when force is provided to the objects, a tensile force is transferred to the connector. The breakaway connector is designed to fail, i.e., the components separate, when the tensile force transferred to the connector exceeds a predetermined level, and may be selectively adjusted to reduce the amount of force required to separate a male and female component of the safety connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Peter W. Rietz
  • Patent number: 6671933
    Abstract: A safety coupler includes a ring member, a hook member, and an annular member. The hook member includes a rod portion and a hook, with the rod portion including a pin and a pair of stops. The pin extends through a transverse opening provided in the ring member. The rod portion includes a releasable connection whereby the hook member and the second member decouple when a force having a selected magnitude is applied to one of the ring member and the hook member along the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Roxane Friend, James R. Friend
  • Patent number: 6606764
    Abstract: A beaded type chain connector includes an external shell and an internal cavity to secure beads from beaded type chainss. The connector is made from a resilient material. The application of force to the beads that are secured within the connector results in the release of beads from the internal cavity when the force exceeds a threshold. The connector can be used as part of a safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Ball Chain Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Valentine J. Taubner, III, James P. Taubner
  • Patent number: 6568709
    Abstract: Breakaway web stops are provided which are employed in seat belt systems for restraining an occupant. In one such seat belt system, the seat belt webbing passes diagonally across the torso of the occupant, through a latch plate, and then across the lap of the occupant. To ensure that the latch plate stays in the correct position, web stops are placed on the seat belt webbing both above and below the correct position of the latch plate, allowing the latch plate to freely move between the two web stops, but not permitting it to move outside this range. In an accident, the breakaway web stop below the latch plate is configured to separate from the seat belt webbing, permitting the tension from the torso portion of the seat belt webbing to transfer to the lap portion of the seat belt webbing, providing additional and safety-enhancing restraint to the occupant, and, in particular, to the occupant's legs and lower body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Schneider, Pontus Soderstrom
  • Patent number: 6473947
    Abstract: A safety belt restraining device designed to be attached to an existing vehicle safety belt system having a male clip and a female buckle. The safety belt restraining device includes a body with a female member integrated within the body. The female member has a hooking member. Opposing the female member is the male member, which has a male end, a male base and a travel member. The travel member receives the hooking member and the travel member limits the movement of the female member. At least two elastic members are attached between the female member and the male member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Sang S. Yun
  • Patent number: 6442807
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a buckle assembly for use in a restraint system for protecting a vehicle passenger during a crash event. The buckle assembly includes a connector, an airbag buckle and a means for ensuring that the connector may only be inserted into an airbag buckle and that the connector may only be inserted into an airbag buckle in a single orientation. The connector includes a mechanical stop with an offset edge. This offset edge must engage within a clearing slot located within the airbag buckle in order for the connector to latch into the airbag buckle. Latching of the connecting element with other non-airbag buckles or with the air bag buckle when the connector is not in the proper orientation is thus prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Am-Safe, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Alexander Adkisson
  • Publication number: 20020050045
    Abstract: An invention directed to the partial or whole disassembly of products. An article includes a first and second portion fastened together by a releasable fastener device. The releasable fastener device includes shape memory material and is in the form of a female element threadedly engaged with a complementary male element through a first threaded engagement region of the shape memory material provided on one of the elements and a second threaded engagement region provided on the other element. The releasable fastener device is operative upon shape transition to change the cross-sectional shape of the first threaded engagement region to radially move the first threaded engagement region clear of the second threaded engagement region so as to release the threaded engagement between the male and female elements and leave the male element free to withdraw from the female element without having to be unscrewed therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph David Chiodo, Eric Billet
  • Patent number: 6360404
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a safety release break-away buckle designed for but not limited to pet collars and large animal halters, to separate at a predetermined magnitude of tension based upon a fraction of the animal's weight or strength, should the animal's collar or halter become entangled on a protrusion as to endanger the animal's health of life, as by strangulation, injury or entrapment. The release is obtained by pulling a lug through a restrictive pair of jaws. The safety release break-away buckle can also be the primary coupling device in a collar or halter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventors: Mary Tenney Mudge, Edgar C. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6286190
    Abstract: A safety coupler includes a ring member, a hook member, and an annular member. The hook member includes a rod portion and a hook, with the rod portion including a pin and a pair of stops. The pin extends through first and second transverse openings provided in the ring member and the annular member, respectively, and rotatably couples the second member to the first member about an axis. The stops axially restrain the pin from passing through the second transverse opening. The annular member axially restrains the pin in the opening of the ring member. The pin is releasably coupled to the first member in the transverse opening such that when a force having a selected magnitude is applied to one of the ring member and the hook member along the axis, one of the stops extends through the first and second transverse openings to decouple the ring member from the hook member. In one form, the annular member comprises a resilient O-ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: Roxane Friend, James R. Friend
  • Patent number: 6249937
    Abstract: A low profile latch mechanism for use in existing and new parachute quick release couplings of the type having two nested members. The mechanism uses a U shaped latch connected to a lever. In an overlying position of the lever, the members are retained in the nested condition, preventing release of the coupling. A W-shaped spring biases tabs into engagement with apertures in one of the members. The lever is retained in the overlying position by connection with the W-shaped spring. Disengaging the W-shaped spring allows the lever to be pivoted, moving the U shaped latch to a position whereby the members are free to separate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Capewell Components Company Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Todd M. Grenga
  • Patent number: 6123166
    Abstract: A buckle release apparatus (42) includes a seat belt buckle (36) which may be mounted in a vehicle. The buckle (36) is operable to receive and retain a buckle tongue (28) within the buckle (36). A sensor (56), which senses a vehicle emergency condition, is electrically connected with a pyrotechnic device (58). The sensor (56) is operable to effect actuation of the pyrotechnic device (58). The pyrotechnic device (58), when actuated, effects operation of the buckle (36) to release the buckle tongue (28) retained within the buckle (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Verellen
  • Patent number: 6076239
    Abstract: A belt lock for a safety belt has a frame (10), a latching element (14) for the latching of the belt tongue (18) and a securing element (16), which secures the latching element (14) in the latched state. Furthermore, a detector device (24, 26, 28) is provided at the belt lock which detects the position of the securing element (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Takata (Europe) Vehicle Safety Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Kopetzky, Frank Pietschmann, Thomas Steidle, Matthias Pleyer
  • Patent number: 6000110
    Abstract: A buckle for safety belts in vehicles comprises a load bearing housing in which an insertion path for receiving an insert tongue is formed. A movable latch is mounted on the housing. A casing is provided which surrounds the housing. The casing is provided with an opening at a rear side thereof remote from the insertion path. Within the casing at least one electric switch is arranged. This switch is fitted through the opening in the buckle in an already assembled condition thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: TRW Occupant Restraint Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Franz Wier