By Snap Fit Patents (Class 29/453)
  • Patent number: 8893369
    Abstract: A packaging structure for assembling to a printed circuit board (PCB) comprises a captive screw having a screw head, a threaded shank and a sleeve; and a fixture pressing against the screw head for a part of the threaded shank to expose from a distal end of the sleeve, and clamping the fixture on the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Ting-Jui Wang
  • Patent number: 8887369
    Abstract: A personal-care appliance having a handle defining a cavity. A fluid connector is positioned within the cavity. A fluid reservoir is positioned within the cavity. The fluid reservoir has a frangible seal that is spaced apart from the fluid connector. A cover is mounted to the handle over the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: Lee Burrowes, Paul Michael Jessemey, Kevin James Wain
  • Publication number: 20140326838
    Abstract: A flexible wire clip dimensioned to be snapped into a side groove on a photovoltaic module frame, wherein the wire clip flexes during installation such that a catch moves away from a frame-receiving slot and slides upwardly against a side edge of a photovoltaic module frame so that a frame member of a photovoltaic module frame can be inserted into the frame-receiving slot, and wherein the wire clip returns to a substantially non-flexed position after it has been snapped into the side groove of a photovoltaic module frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: ZEP SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: John Raymond West, Brian West
  • Publication number: 20140319991
    Abstract: A handle assembly for mounting to a door of a refrigerator includes a main body member having first and second end portions separated by an intermediate portion. Each of the first and second end portions includes a cavity adapted to receive an end insert formed of soft material. Each of the end inserts includes an attachment member. The handle is mounted to a front face of the door through interengagment of the attachment members and base members provided on the door without scratching the surface of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: FORREST F. WING
  • Publication number: 20140311248
    Abstract: A differential pressure sensor includes a containment body defining a first and a second cavity separated by a separation wall; a piston housed slidably in the first cavity and comprising a magnet; a magnetic sensor housed in the second cavity near the separation wall for sensing the axial distance of the magnet from the separation wall; a positioning system housed in the second cavity and having one portion of a first axial end thereof which supports the magnetic sensor and is elastically yieldable in an axial direction and away from the separation wall, the positioning system being structured so that when it is moved towards the separation wall, the magnetic sensor contacts the latter before the positioning system reaches an axial stroke end, said stroke end being reached thanks to the above-mentioned elastic yielding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: EUROSWITCH S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giovanni MEI
  • Publication number: 20140306430
    Abstract: A steering wheel and driver airbag assembly in which an airbag module having a container housing a driver airbag is attached to motor vehicle steering wheel by a single snap fastener having a first part on the steering wheel and a second part on the container. To attach the airbag module to the steering wheel a part of the container is brought into contact with the steering wheel, the container is then rotated about a transverse axis so as to engage the second part of the snap fastener located on the container with the first part of the snap fastener on the steering wheel. A pair of location means locate the container at a position spaced away from the single snap fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy SCOTT, James ALCORN, Martin FASSBENDER, Matthew SHYNN
  • Publication number: 20140305895
    Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a latch or connector assembly that is adapted to attach a track to a rail along a platform of a merchandising shelf assembly. The connector assembly includes an adapter having a first end and an opposite second end such that the first end is adapted to be attached to the track and the second end is configured to be selectively attached to the rail. The adapter includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm is spaced from a second arm such that the first arm can be resiliently biased relative to the second arm. An attachment member extends from the first arm and is configured to selectively connect to the rail. A press surface is configured to be pressed by a user to bias the first arm relative to the second arm to selectively connect the attachment member to the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Fasteners for Retail, Inc.
    Inventors: Shane Obitts, Gerald Matthew Szpak
  • Publication number: 20140275794
    Abstract: A mechanical cap ring/gel pad assembly useful in surgical access devices and methods for making the same, wherein the cap ring and the gel pad are formed separately and then mechanically attached to form a strong seal without the need for heating, solvents or adhesives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew M. Becerra, Jeremy J. Albrecht
  • Publication number: 20140271082
    Abstract: A pick-and-place machine and method includes use of a passive component feeder cartridge including a feeder gear. Rotation of the feeder gear causes a component-bearing tape to be fed through the feeder cartridge. A pickup head includes a vacuum nozzle to pick up the components from the tape and a rack gear to engage and drive the feeder gear of the feeder cartridge via translational motion of the pickup head when operatively disposed with respect to a selected feeder cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: JOHN S. YOUNGQUIST
  • Publication number: 20140262973
    Abstract: An assembly for a high output hydrodynamic separation unit includes, in one form, several components or parts. Top and bottom plates serve as caps for and distribute force through layers of separation channels. The compressive forces seal the channels and prevent leakage from the channels. An optional middle plate may also be provided to create smaller subsets of the layers of separation channels. At least one connector is provided to the combination of components to compress the layers of separation channels. In a variation, an optional outer shell may encase the unit to provide support and compress the stack with a unique threaded configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: PALO ALTO RESEARCH CENTER INCORPORATED
    Inventors: David Mathew Johnson, Ashutosh Kole, Kai Melde
  • Publication number: 20140270885
    Abstract: A cassette comprising at least one portion for engaging with a cooperating locking element of a tape printer when said cassette is correctly located in said printer, said portion comprising an elongate conductive bar extending along said cassette in a direction perpendicular to a rotational axis of a supply roll housed in said cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: DYMO
    Inventors: Jerry Roctus, Geert Van Aerde, Kris Vandermeulen, Herman De Rycke, Marc Francois
  • Publication number: 20140259397
    Abstract: Various methods and apparatus are disclosed herein for securing an actuator to a structure. In one form the apparatus includes a first clamp member connected to an actuator and having a first mating structure, and a second snap-fit clamp member having a second mating structure that engages and mates with the first mating structure when the second clamp member is snapped onto the first clamp member to form a clamp that secures the actuator to a structure and encloses the structure so that the actuator is easily and properly connected to the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Scott A. McReynolds
  • Publication number: 20140262897
    Abstract: A container may include a wall and a medal retained to the wall by container material of integral one-piece construction with the wall and extending over at least a portion of the medal. The medal and one or more portions of the container adjacent the medal have a shared unique appearance. A package may include a flaccid loop coupled between a closure and a container to which the closure is coupled, and a medal coupled to the flaccid loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Owens-Brockway Glass Container Inc.
    Inventor: Owens-Brockway Glass Container Inc.
  • Patent number: 8827215
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for securing a mobile medical equipment supporter system, such as an infusion pump pole, to a mobile patient transporter, such as a gurney, thereby enhancing patient and attendant safety. The supporter system includes a primary support structure, one or more attachment points configured to secure medical delivery device(s) and/or medical monitoring device(s), a wheeled mobility assembly, and a hitcher assembly having a hitcher coupler configured to operatively mate with a corresponding hitchee coupler of the mobile patient transporter. In some embodiments, the mobility assembly includes a carousel with three or more rotatably attached wheeled extensions. The coupling process starts by decreasing the height of the patient transporter. Next, the hitcher coupler is aligned to the hitchee coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Randall D. Hilton
  • Publication number: 20140248794
    Abstract: A connector cage includes a bezel, having a plurality of slots formed therein, and a cage structure including upper and lower sides and multiple partitions extending between the upper and lower sides to define receptacles for receiving cable connectors. Multiple tabs protrude out of at least one of the sides in locations at which the tabs fit into the slots in the bezel, and are folded over the slots so as to secure the cage structure to the bezel. The cage may also include multiple snap-on spring subassemblies, each spring subassembly secured to a front end of a respective partition and comprising leaves that bow outward to contact the shells of the connectors that are inserted into the receptacles adjacent to the partition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: MELLANOX TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Nimer Khazen, Rafi Lagziel
  • Patent number: 8813339
    Abstract: Multi-layered cellular metallic glass structures and methods of preparing the same are provided. In one embodiment, the cellular metallic glass structure includes at least one patterned metallic glass sheet and at least one additional sheet. The at least one patterned metallic glass sheet may include multiple sheets connected together to form a group of sheets, and the structure may include a group of sheets sandwiched between two outer sheets. The patterned metallic glass sheets may be patterned by thermoplastically forming two- and/or three-dimensional patterns in the metallic glass sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Robert D. Conner, Marios D. Demetriou, LeRoy A. Dunning, William L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140225494
    Abstract: A press brake tool cabinet having multiple tool carrying drawers where the drawers are formed from a metal sheet base configured as two side panels separated by a bottom panel. A back panel is connected to the base, and a front panel having a first set of openings to receive snap fitted latches and a second set of openings for receiving strike plates is also connected to the base. Left and right strike plates are mounted to the base and the front panel is connected to one arm of a continuous hinge and a second arm of the continuous hinge is connected to the bottom panel. Lockable drawer slides connect the drawers to the cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Edward Karl Freimuth
  • Publication number: 20140208702
    Abstract: According to the present disclosure, arrangements, systems, components, features and methods for separating hydrophobic fluid such as oil entrained as aerosols from gas streams, such as crankcase ventilation gas streams are described. The components specifically described include a filter cartridge with preferred features for interaction with a filter housing, and a filter housing with preferred features for convenient installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: DONALDSON COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Lundgren, Veli Kalayci, Paul Peterson, Daniel Adamek, Richard Osendorf, Wade Mosset, Robert Wood
  • Publication number: 20140208506
    Abstract: A pedestal bed base uses four corner assemblies to connect side and end members without the need for fasteners or tools. Each corner assembly comprises only two plastic pieces which may be secured to the side and end members of the pedestal bed base frame in a snap-fit manner and secured to each other. The corner assemblies enable a person to assemble the pedestal bed base quicker and less expensively than if such assembler had to use tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: L&P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
    Inventors: Robert A. Bartelsmeyer, Joy Fozard, David W. Stroud
  • Publication number: 20140203588
    Abstract: A system and method for attaching an enclosure to a golf cart includes a flange member extending outwardly from a golf cart and a mounting strip having a tab portion attached to a golf cart enclosure panel. The mounting strip also includes a body portion having a u-shaped channel which is dimensioned and adapted to be press-fit onto an outer edge of the flange member thereby securing the enclosure panel to the golf cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Tyrer
  • Patent number: 8776376
    Abstract: A method of forming paneled corners including the step of providing first and second components. The first components can each have a pair of first legs forming an exterior angle of greater than 180 degrees, and can have a first connector. The second components can each have a pair of second legs forming an interior angle of less than 180, and can have a second connector. The method can further include the steps of choosing an outside corner from an outside corner and an inside corner, selecting one of the first components, placing the one first component over the outside corner, securing the one first component, placing panels on the first legs, selecting one of the second components, pushing the one second component onto the one first selected component to engage their respective second and first connectors, thereby capturing the edges of the two panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas Williams
  • Patent number: 8768152
    Abstract: A cooking appliance includes a glass cooktop panel and a cooktop frame. A radiant heating element is positioned between the cooktop frame and the glass cooktop panel. The heating element has an upper surface biased toward a lower surface of the glass cooktop panel. A screwless spring clip is coupled to both the heating element and the cooktop frame so as to secure the heating element to the cooktop frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip K. Fritschie, Richard K. Morrow
  • Publication number: 20140179422
    Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to a snap-and-click display utilized to enhance the installation of a display on an electronic gaming device. The systems and methods may allow for easier installation of a display on the electronic gaming device via a snap-and-click display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: CADILLAC JACK
    Inventors: Mark Thompson, Prashant Shah
  • Patent number: 8752257
    Abstract: An arrangement is provided for securing a lining material of a wall inner surface of a load-bearing construction, such as a container, apparatus, duct, housing, or column, which is acted upon by a gaseous or liquid medium. Multiple securing points are provided, and are arranged in a distributed manner and connected to the wall inner surface in order to secure the lining material. In order to reliably secure a lining material to a wall inner surface subject to great tractive forces, the fastening elements have at least one holding element which connects the wall inner surfaces to the lining material, and which can be fixed by a pressure element in a force- and/or form-fit manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Plasticon Germany GmbH
    Inventor: Hermann Van Laak
  • Publication number: 20140143989
    Abstract: A method of connecting a first component having a first hole with a second component having a second hole includes the acts of placing together the two components so that the holes are situated above one another, and fixing the two components on one another. The fixing occurs by pushing a connection element projecting beyond the two components through the two components, the connection element having at least one clamping head which projects beyond a side of the first component facing away from the second component, and clipping a clamping element onto the clamping head, so that the clamping element is supported on a side of the first component facing away from the second component and exercises a clamping force onto the connection element which clamps together the two components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas HERZINGER, Sonja WOLF, Johann van NIEKERK, Matthias BERGER
  • Publication number: 20140143949
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a linkage base adapted to be secured to a portion of a furniture sidewall, an elongate first linkage arm, and an elongate second linkage arm. The hinge assembly may also include an insert member assembly that includes an elongate first insert member, an elongate second insert member, a pivot assembly to pivotably couple the first insert member to the second insert member, and an insert linkage arm that is coupled to the first insert member. The first linkage arm and the second linkage arm are each pivotally coupled to the linkage base and the insert linkage arm. The first insert member may be releasably coupled to a first rear receiving member secured to a first furniture portion and the second insert member may be releasably coupled to a first front receiving member secured to a second furniture portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas C. Erdman, Steve E. Connor, Mo Jian Lin
  • Patent number: 8734709
    Abstract: An apparatus for converting a refurbishing machine into a reforming machine. The apparatus reforms a portion of a plastic container using induction heating. The apparatus includes a reform heating assembly that achieves a temperature of above about 500° F., heats the container via radiant and convection heating without contacting the container, and has a power and thermocouple connection to a first controller. The apparatus also includes a reform cooling assembly that has a forming die which contacts and reforms the container portion, a support housing a Peltier thermoelectric cooler, a heat sink facilitating heat transfer away from the forming die, and a power and thermocouple connection to a second controller. The method includes the steps of replacing heating assemblies of the refurbishing machine with the reform heating assembly and the reform cooling assembly, respectively, using the existing equipment utilities of the refurbishing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Graham Packaging Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Garrett R. Pennington
  • Publication number: 20140130454
    Abstract: A water bottle includes a bottle body, a cap and a base. The bottle body includes a wall structure extending from a bottom end to a top end. The top end includes an opening. An outer surface of the wall structure may include a plurality of finger grip recesses and at least one thumb grip recess. The cap is configured to releasably connect to the top end of the bottle body to close the opening with a fluid-tight seal. The cap has a pointed portion that provides at least one top pressure point. The base is positioned at the bottom end of the bottle body and includes at least one pointed portion that provides at least one bottom pressure point. The at least one top and at least one bottom pressure points provide self-defense features for the water bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Browning
    Inventor: Russ Kommer
  • Publication number: 20140131371
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cargo holding device, in particular cargo container or pallet, for loading aircraft, comprising a bottom element and a plurality of profile elements and corner elements, wherein a bottom element edge portion is connected to the profile elements and corner elements, wherein the profile elements are connected to the corner elements via push-fit connections, wherein at least one profile element is connected to at least one corner element via a push-fit connection which comprises a push-fit connection recess and a corresponding push-fit connection pin, wherein the push-fit connection recess and the push-fit connection pin are configured such that the profile element and the corner element can be connected together by push-fit by a translational movement, wherein a translational movement direction has an angle in relation to a profile longitudinal axis of the profile element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Telair International GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Huber
  • Patent number: 8720033
    Abstract: A wiper blade assembly has a resilient wiper element with a crown having lengthwise grooves and a tip for wiping a window. An arcuate metal flexor has inner edges disposed in the grooves of the crown and outer edges. An elongate cover has an upper wall and a pair of flanges curled inwardly in spaced relation from the upper wall to provide elongate channels. The outer edges of the flexor are disposed in the channels. The connector is configured for attachment to a wiper arm, and has a lower surface with a pair of flanges curled in spaced relation from the lower surface to provide opposite facing pockets that slidingly receive the cover flanges therein. A projection on one of the connector or the cover is received in an opening of the other of the connector or the cover to lock the connector to the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Allen Koppen, James Lynn Lytle
  • Publication number: 20140115864
    Abstract: Embodiments of methods of assembling an abrasive blast respirator are disclosed. The method may comprise removably attaching an exhalation valve into an exhalation valve port of a facepiece, removably installing the facepiece into a hood, removably attaching a filter to a first inhalation valve, where the first inhalation valve is coupled to the facepiece, and removably attaching a breathing hose to a second inhalation valve, where the second inhalation valve is coupled to the facepiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Swapnil Gopal Patil, Joseph Rodrigues, Joseph Venagro
  • Patent number: 8708375
    Abstract: A plug connector for media-bearing lines has a plug body for connecting to an opening. At least one rib is provided on the plug body, the rib being retained in the opening in the assembly position of the plug body by a retaining clip adjustable on the plug body. An assembly force acts on the retaining clip, the clip being supported on at least one rib of the plug body, thereby displacing the plug body into the opening, and locking therein in an undercut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfram Knis, Uwe Ehrhardt, Hans Albrecht, Tilman Miehle
  • Publication number: 20140109539
    Abstract: A front baffle assembly (1) for a lawn mower (30) is provided. The front baffle assembly (1) is adapted for attachment to a lawn mower chassis (2), and comprises a stopper (5a, 5b) configured to abut against an upper side of the chassis (2) and a front baffle (4) configured to abut against a lower side of the chassis (2). The front baffle assembly (1) comprises a catch element (6a, 6b) which protrudes downwardly from the stopper (5a, 5b) and is arranged to extend through the chassis (2) and beyond a lower side of the front baffle (4). The front baffle assembly (1) comprises a front axle (7) arranged to be received between the catch element (6a, 6b) and the lower side of the front baffle (4) to clamp the chassis (2) between the stopper (5a, 5b) and the front baffle (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: HUSQVARNA AB
    Inventors: Mikael Adolfsson, Fredrik Edholm, Helena André, Magnus Henriksson, Jasmin Insanic, Jörgen Johansson, Jonas Tibbelin
  • Patent number: 8701819
    Abstract: A console assembly for a vehicle and installment method are provided wherein the console is installed around a vehicle shifter assembly. The assembly includes a main body wherein the main body includes a shifter assembly mounted thereon, an elongated bracket mounted to the shifter assembly wherein the elongated bracket includes at least two protrusions, and a console assembly having at least two elongated portions wherein each of the elongated portions includes an inner wall. Attachment structures operable to accept the protrusions of the elongated bracket are mounted on the inner walls of the elongated portions of the center console. The center console having the at least two elongated portions is mounted over the shifter onto the elongated bracket allowing the at least two protrusions of the elongated bracket to attach to the means to accept the at least two protrusions thereby eliminating the need for any additional bolts or screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Anthony Porcs
  • Patent number: 8695725
    Abstract: A power tool handle is selectively connectable to a power tool head. The power tool handle includes a grip portion defining a longitudinal axis, and a motor housed within the handle and including a drive shaft driven by the motor, the drive shaft mounted for rotation within the handle and defining an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The power tool handle also includes a trigger disposed proximate the grip portion for actuating the motor, and a button movable in a direction defining an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis to a first position when the tool head is coupled to the handle and to a second position when the tool head is removed from the handle. In the first position, the trigger can actuate the motor, and in the second position, the trigger is inhibited from actuating the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Techtronic Power Tools Technology Limited
    Inventors: Siu Yan Lau, Jason P. Whitmire, Jason Brandenburg, Thomas Parel, Taku Ohi
  • Publication number: 20140085889
    Abstract: Described are track adapters for snap-fitting within a recess of a track, the track adapters including at least one manually-releasable spring tab comprising a lip and a release tab; and at least one slidably-releasable spring tab comprising a lip, wherein the at least one manually-releasable spring tab and the at least one slidably-releasable spring tab are adapted to deflect inwardly to permit snap-fit insertion of the track adapter into the recess. Also described are light fixtures including a fixture head comprising at least one lamp housing, wherein the at least one lamp housing supports at least one lamp; and a curved arm connecting the fixture head to a support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: ABL IP HOLDING LLC
    Inventor: Edwin Thomas Mackiewicz
  • Publication number: 20140072362
    Abstract: This invention comprises an adaptor device for connecting an electronic device having a camera to a range of optical devices, including but not limited to binoculars, monoculars, riflescopes, spotting scopes, telescopes, and microscopes. This adaptor device has a plurality of protrusion that provide a self-centering and fitted connection between the electronic and optical device, so that the optical axes are aligned so that the user may take images or video on their electronic device through the optical device. The structure of the adaptor device allows the adaptor to fit a range of differently sized optical device, denoted by the diameter of the eyepiece end of the optical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Carson Optical, Inc.
    Inventor: Michelle Hyers
  • Publication number: 20140068918
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing shaving razor having a fluid interconnect member with a fluid port extending from a base member at a first end. A cartridge housing mounted to the fluid interconnect member. A fluid applicator is mounted to a second end of the fluid interconnect member. A handle has a first end with a resilient member defining an opening. The fluid port is releasably engaged within the opening of the resilient member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: THE GILLETTE COMPANY
    Inventors: Xiaolan Xu, Kevin James Wain
  • Patent number: 8667660
    Abstract: A clamping assembly for a toolholder includes a toolholder body having an access hole. A locking sleeve is slidably disposed within the access hole and a center collet is disposed within the locking sleeve and is fixedly connected to the toolholder body. The center collet receives a retaining tip of a tool. A spring assembly and a release device cause the locking sleeve to move within the access hole between a load position, where the locking sleeve is disengaged from the center collet such that the center collet is open and a lock position, where the locking sleeve engages the center collet such that the center collet is closed and locks the retaining tip of the tool within the access hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Kennametal Inc.
    Inventors: Karen Anne Craig, Kenneth George Deroche
  • Publication number: 20140064676
    Abstract: An optical connector includes a connector housing and an optics device. A plurality of optical fibers are retained in a fiber port of the connector. The fiber port has two fiber guide arrays oriented at an angle with respect to each other. Portions of the fibers between the two fiber guide arrays flex as the optics device and connector housing are assembled together. The resilient force of the flexed fibers maintains the fiber ends seated within the fiber guide arrays to facilitate further handling, such as applying an adhesive to further secure the fiber ends in the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Avago Technologies General IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd
    Inventor: Laurence R. McColloch
  • Publication number: 20140062271
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting a housing unit for an electronics module to an adapter member are disclosed. The method includes providing a housing with a first connection member and a second connection member, wherein the first connection member includes a flex rib and an abuse protection rib, attaching the first connection member to an adapter member, pivoting the housing on the first connection member to allow the second connection member to swing into position, and snapping the second connection member into the adapter member at an adapter member opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: FLEXTRONICS AP, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Warren, Darren Van Roon, Allan Chun, Steve Steane, Reginald C. Grills
  • Publication number: 20140028047
    Abstract: A sliding sun visor for use in a vehicle is disclosed. The sun visor includes a first and second visor body shell. At least one of the shells having a retaining channel for engaging and retaining a floating carrier on a visor pivot rod. It is also contemplated that the sun visor may have a snap in vanity system and rotating pin on a D-ring associated therewith. The visor body also may include a wire routing option to route a wire from the electrical system of a vehicle to a light bulb in a vanity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Irvin Automotive Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lee Huff, Leslie Raymond Hinds, Bryan Wesley Busha, Donald Joseph Woodward, Joseph Peter Wieczorek
  • Publication number: 20140027994
    Abstract: A steering knuckle assembly and a method of manufacture. The steering knuckle assembly may include a steering knuckle, a spindle, and a snap ring. The snap ring may be disposed in snap ring grooves in the steering knuckle and spindle to inhibit movement of the spindle with respect to the steering knuckle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Tomaz Dopico Varela, Dale Eschenburg
  • Patent number: 8621740
    Abstract: A water-retaining element (2) for forming a temporary water-retaining structure (1) includes a bottom (6), a plurality of side walls (8, 10), and connections (20). The plurality of side walls are immovably connected to the bottom and extend upwards from the bottom to form a water-fillable container (12). The connections connect the water-retaining element in a water-retaining manner to least one adjacent water-retaining element. The water-fillable container (12) is open at the top to receive a second water-retaining element (2) during transport and/or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignees: Koninklijke BAM Groep N.V., Movares Nederland B.V.
    Inventors: Jan Sebastiaan Reedijk, Erik ten Oever, Joachim Matthijs van Gaalen, Peter Gerardes van Duijnen, Herke Gerrit Stuit
  • Publication number: 20130340236
    Abstract: An assembly tool for assembling components of an implant can include a finger assembly, a handle assembly, and a crossbar assembly. The finger assembly can include first and second fingers oriented parallel to each other, and sized and shaped to releasably engage first and second components of the implant during assembly. The handle assembly can include first and second handles pivotally connected to each other and configured to control movement of the first and second fingers. The crossbar assembly can be configured to maintain the first and second fingers substantially parallel to each other during movement of the first and second fingers. The assembly tool can be used for assembling a bearing assembly to an ulnar component of an elbow prosthesis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Terry W. Wagner, Matthew L. Mroczkowski
  • Publication number: 20130344977
    Abstract: A sports stick system, apparatus and method of engagement including a grip assembly and a shaft assembly designed to afford the user maximum functional capability in at point of purchase, practice or game play, coupled with the ability to replace or interchange grip systems. The system and apparatus provides numerous embodiments of grips, shafts and inserts, including the ability to tailor the gripping mechanisms to both right-handed and left-handed users. The system also provides golf clubs including interchangeable grips and heads to be tried at time of purchase or to exchange after trying on a golf course.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Chalifoux
  • Publication number: 20130341913
    Abstract: A coupling system for a fluid module (100) of an expandable fluid distribution system is provided. The coupling system includes a first coupling side (104) of the fluid module (100) with a female coupling part comprising an aperture (105) and a shoulder (108) and a male coupling part comprising a coupling tab (106) extending from the base (101). The coupling system also includes a second coupling side (204) of the fluid module (100) with a female coupling part comprising a slot (206) sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the coupling tab (106) of an adjoining fluid module and a male coupling part comprising a fluid stem (205) and an engagement rim (208) sized and shaped to engage the shoulder (108) of an adjoining fluid module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Norgren GmbH
    Inventor: Jan PAMPEL
  • Publication number: 20130313264
    Abstract: A dinner plate of conventional size and shape includes within its substantially planar bottom a coaxial central region having coupling means in the form of diametrically opposing, chordal grooves that mate with the outwardly curled rim of commonly available, flexible plastic drink cups. The coupling means holds the cup snugly against the bottom of the plate, enabling a user confidently to hold both in one hand, freeing his other hand and allowing considerable acentric loading of the plate with foods. Inserting the cup rim into the grooves requires squeezing it slightly and temporarily into an oval shape. Once released, the cup's resiliency enhances the snugness of the fit and the security of the coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Michael T. Dawson
  • Patent number: 8590133
    Abstract: A tool for placing a shim between a housing and a component biased towards the housing is provided. The tool can include a handle and a pair of spaced-apart tongs extending outwardly from the handle. In addition, a shim support surface can be located between the pair of spaced-apart tongs. The spaced-apart tongs and the shim support surface can be dimensioned for a shim to nest between the tongs on the shim support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Ivor McGuire, Juan Manuel Molina, Christopher Alton Gipson
  • Publication number: 20130298372
    Abstract: A profile assembly for use on a belt comprises a base configured to be attached to the belt, wherein the base comprises a lower portion configured to be in physical communication with a surface of the belt, and an upper portion comprising aperture channel therein, and a lip disposed adjacent to the channel on a side of the upper portion; and a removable profile configured to matingly engage the base, wherein the profile comprises an outer portion configured to be in physical communication with an object to be conveyed, and an inner portion configured to be inserted into the upper portion, wherein the inner portion comprises a protrusion extending from a first surface of the inner portion, the protrusion configured to extend through the aperture and snap fit with the lip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: HABASIT AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: ARTHUR F. WILLIAMS, PAUL H. STEVENS