Spring Arm Patents (Class 292/80)
  • Patent number: 8215682
    Abstract: An unlocking structure including a board element, a locking element, and a guiding element is provided. The board element has a first surface, a second surface, and at least one first opening. The locking element with at least one hook and at least one first elastic arm is disposed on the first surface of the board element. The hook is connected to the first elastic arm and passes through the first opening to protrude from the second surface of the board element. The guiding element is slidingly disposed on the first surface of the board element and is located between the board element and the locking element. The guiding element has at least one guiding inclined plane. The guiding inclined plane is suitable to structurally interfere with the first elastic arm, so as to drive the hook to exit from the second surface towards the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Yung-Chin Hsu
  • Patent number: 8205918
    Abstract: A locking structure applied on a board sliding in a track. The board has locating hole. The locking structure includes a moving member and a locking plate respectively disposed on the board. The moving member has a pull ring portion, a first extending arm, a second extending arm, a first contact portion and a second contact portion. The locking plate has a first engaging arm and a second engaging arm, wherein the first engaging arm leans against the first contact portion and the second engaging arm leans against the second contact portion when a loading is applied to the moving member via the pull ring portion to push the moving member from an initial position to a disengaging position. The first extending arm and the second extending arm apply a resilient force to drive the moving member from the disengaging position back to the initial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Yung-Chin Hsu
  • Patent number: 8194405
    Abstract: An accessory strap securing mechanism is positioned in a portable electronic device to assemble an accessory strap thereon. The portable electronic device defines an assembling slot. The accessory strap securing mechanism includes an assembling portion and a securing member. The assembling portion is formed in the portable electronic device. The securing member includes a fixing portion and a holding portion. The fixing portion is fixed to the assembling portion. The holding portion includes a clasp, and the clasp is deformed to allow the accessory strap to separate when a force applied to the accessory strap exceeds a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventor: Shui-Jin Dong
  • Publication number: 20120133156
    Abstract: An apparatus kit which releases the dogging function of a panic device without the use of a key or other external device comprising: an end cap button; connecting adjustable rod; and an adaptable linkage to the existing dogging mechanism of the panic devise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Scott Christopher Tillman, Jeffrey Edward Bensinger
  • Patent number: 8161685
    Abstract: A draft excluder for excluding drafts between a door and the floor. The draft excluder is made up of an elongated angled bracket, at least one clip, a flexible covering, and an elongated weight. The flexible covering can take the form of a cloth covering. The elongated angled bracket defines first and second sidewalls with an interior angle there-between. The first and second sidewalls respectively define first and second elongated terminal edges. During normal use the at least one clip holds the first sidewall of the bracket to the bottom of a door such that the interior angle faces downward and towards the floor beneath the door. The flexible covering defines a cover portion that extends between the first and second elongated terminal edges. The cover portion defines an interior surface and an exterior surface. The elongated weight is affixed to the interior surface of the cover portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony J. Salgado
  • Patent number: 8141735
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel container (1) for holding foodstuffs. The container is of the type used for a holding bulk food product to be dispensed by a self serving customer in the bulk food section of a supermarket or health food establishment. The container includes a self closing lid (2) and is specially shaped to avoid the existence of a “dead space” which can lead to product in that portion becoming stale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Durapod System Limited
    Inventors: Timothy Paul Woods, Lawrence Basil Hart
  • Patent number: 8104848
    Abstract: A dryer having a door opening and closing apparatus are disclosed. The door opening and closing apparatus includes a cabinet provided with an opening part, a door installed to the cabinet to open and close the opening part, a hook provided to the door, a fixing part provided to the cabinet, a plate spring provided to the fixing part to allow the hook to be inserted therein and a projection part provided to the fixing part to allow the plate spring to be pivoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Hyoung Tae Yoon
  • Patent number: 8096593
    Abstract: A latch for a sliding frame may be provided with a mounting end for mounting the latch on a mounting surface over which a sliding frame would travel along a sliding path, and a resilient blocking element having an end portion and a body portion coupled to the mounting end, and a stop element positioned to engage the end portion of the resilient blocking element and adapted to prevent the sliding frame from opening when the frame is in a closed position. A user may disengage the latch by removing the resilient blocking element from the sliding path so that the sliding frame can be moved to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Cindy Lou Gibbons
  • Patent number: 8066308
    Abstract: A chassis includes a cover unit, a base unit which includes a bottom panel and a cover panel fixed to the bottom panel, a through hole defined in the cover panel, and a latch mechanism assembly. The latch mechanism assembly includes a hook protruding from the cover unit, an operating apparatus mounted to the bottom panel, a supporting member mounted to the bottom panel, a latch member resiliently mounted to the supporting member, and a connecting pole connecting the latch member to the operating apparatus. The hook is capable of extending through the through hole of the cover panel. The latch member includes a latch portion capable of securing the hook. The latch member is capable of engaging the hook when the hook is located within the through hole, and the operating apparatus is capable of retracting the connecting pole and thus causing the latch member to disengage the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Chang Lee
  • Patent number: 8056942
    Abstract: A lock for releasably locking a movable hatch to a counterpart is equipped with a fitting (1) having a locking assembly (21) and an additional fitting (2) having an additional locking assembly (28) that can be brought into engagement with the locking assembly (21) of the other fitting (1). The fittings (1, 2) are made of plastic and an elastically deformable compensating cushion (7) is present, which is fastened to one fitting (1, 2) and which when the fittings (1, 2) are in the locked position is disposed deformed between the fittings (1, 2) such that it exerts a bias on them (1, 2). The inventive lock is therefore light but strong and compensates tolerances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventors: Aexander Marini, Andy Junge, Rene Dreiocker
  • Patent number: 8038184
    Abstract: The invention concerns a catching device (1) between a first structure (2) and a second structure (3), characterized in that it comprises at least one bolt (5) linked to the first structure and mounted in opposition to at least one elastic return (9) tending to bring it back to a retracted position, a stop (10) corresponding to the second structure being adapted to maintain it in a taut state when the latter is proximate the first structure, such that when the first structure is rapidly spaced apart from the second structure, each bolt is engaged with at least one corresponding retainer (4) so as to limit the relative spacing and, when the first structure is slowly spaced apart from the second structure, each bolt and corresponding retainer remain separated, thereby allowing complete opening between the first structure and the second structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventor: Francois Grigis
  • Patent number: 8020902
    Abstract: An integrated snap and handling apparatus is provided. The apparatus may be capable of being assembled with and disassembled from a mating component without damage. The apparatus may include a pair of features that provide an intuitive and easy user interface for removal, handling and installation. The pair of features may allow a user to use a pinching motion to engage and disengage the apparatus from the mating component without the use of a tool. The integrated snap and handling apparatus may provide for low removal forces when the user interface is properly actuated while resisting high separation forces when the user interface is not properly actuated. The integrated snap and handling apparatus may be incorporated into a wide variety of assemblies and devices. For example, the integrated snap and handling apparatus may be incorporated into a cooling duct for the control of airflow around an electronic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Flextronics AP, LLC
    Inventor: Hsu Li
  • Patent number: 8020901
    Abstract: A housing including a first member, a second member, a first locking mechanism, and a second locking mechanism. The first member is configured to engage with second member. The first locking mechanism locks the first member to the second member, and unlocks in accordance with pressure provided from external of the housing. And the second locking mechanism locks the first member to the second member, and unlocks by rotating either of the first member or the second member at the second locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hayato Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7988211
    Abstract: An improved integrated interbox connector to permit vertical stacking of cargo containers using no manual labor and includes an automatic pivoting engagement lock, a latch, a lip/end stop. The connecting corner can be retrofitted to existing containers by welding or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Roderick Duncan Anderson
  • Patent number: 7984935
    Abstract: An exemplary latching mechanism for connecting a first component (20) and a second component (40). The latching mechanism includes at least one first engaging portion (408) formed/defined on the second component, at least one latch holder (60a, 60b) fixed relative to the first component, and at least one first latching member (80a, 80b). A first latch-clasping piece (604) extends from the at least one latch holder. The at least one first latching member has at least one second engaging portion (806). The second engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion of the second component. The first engaging portion of the second component and the first latching member are disposed between the first latch-clasping piece of the latch holder and the first component. The present invention further provides an electronic device employing the latching mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Ping Luo, Jia-Gui Xu, Qi-Mi Huang
  • Patent number: 7967346
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are provided of slider mechanisms for slidably opening and closing portable communications terminals. In one exemplary embodiment, a portable communications terminal includes a main body and a slider body sliding on the main body. The slider mechanism includes a first slider member fixed to one of the main body and slider body and a second slider member fixed to the other one. The second slider member is slidably engaged with the first slider member. A zigzag spring is disposed between the first and second slider members. One end portion of the zigzag spring is rotatably supported on one of the first and second slider members and the other end thereof is rotatably supported on the other one of the first and second slider members. The zigzag spring is formed of a first zigzag portion and a second zigzag portion having spring characteristics different from the first zigzag portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Laird Technologies Korea YH
    Inventors: Tae Hyun Kim, Jae Man Hwang
  • Patent number: 7909371
    Abstract: A vivarium cover locking clip prevents removal of a cover from a vivarium tank. The clip includes first and second brackets matingly engaging each other in a detent locked position and respectively engaging the cover and the tank and preventing separation thereof. The brackets have a released position permitting separation of the cover and the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Central Garden and Pet Company
    Inventors: Brad L. Mihlbauer, David R. Troop, II
  • Patent number: 7878558
    Abstract: The present apparatus relates to a gate latch mechanism. The gate latch comprises at least two housings wherein the first housing is mountable to a stationary object such as an existing fence or structure and the second housing is mountable to a moveable object such as a gate. In some cases it may useful to mount the first housing to the moveable object and likewise mount the second housing to the stationary object. In one embodiment, the first housing comprises a back plate hingedly connected to two front plates angled outwardly from the back plate and the second housing comprises a latchable mechanism comprising a rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: William Russell Bell
  • Publication number: 20100264672
    Abstract: A double slide arm spring mechanism for biasing a primary mechanism to home position after operation and retaining the primary mechanism in the home position pending further operation. The double slide arm spring mechanism includes a pair of slideably interlocking arms each having a longitudinal frame member and a spring engaging flange at each end. The frame members are a disposed to engage one another while permitting relative sliding of the arms. The slide arms are interlocked such that one flange of each arm is situated between the two flanges of the other arm. Two compression springs are retained between the flanges of the arms such that sliding of either arm toward the other necessarily compresses both springs. Potential energy stored in the springs returns the slide to its neutral position when the operator is released thereby also returning the operator to its neutral position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Philip C. Ellis
  • Patent number: 7748756
    Abstract: In a sidewall of a connector frame, a cantilevered lock arm is provided. A lower end of the lock arm is connected to the sidewall with a curved supporting unit interposed therebetween. The lock arm extends upward from the supporting unit with a space. The supporting unit has a slit to increase the flexibility of the lock arm. An engagement protrusion is provided on the lock arm. Moreover, a fitting sidewall is provided in a box body, and a lock wall having a lock protrusion is provided outside the fitting sidewall. The lock protrusion includes a downward-facing engagement surface. A mold hole used in molding the engagement surface is formed between the fitting sidewall and lock wall. An abutment surface is provided at an upper end of the fitting sidewall and contacted with the supporting unit to close communication between the mold hole and the slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Kanamaru, Makoto Nakayama, Tarou Inoue
  • Patent number: 7740289
    Abstract: An exemplary housing of a foldable electronic device includes a first cover, a second cover, and a button disposed on the second cover. The first cover includes a lock receiving portion. The button includes a main body, a lock portion, and a resilient portion. The lock portion is configured for engaging with the lock receiving portion. The lock portion and the resilient portion connect with the main body. The main body includes a contact portion and a pivot portion. The contact portion and the pivot portion are separated from each other at a predetermined distance. The main body is rotatably disposed on the second cover by the pivot portion. The resilient portion is located on another end opposite to the pivot portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignees: Hon Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zi-Ming Tang
  • Patent number: 7686353
    Abstract: A cabinet catch (10) consists of an integrally molded plastic clip (14) and bracket (12) for mounting to a portion of a cabinet structure. The clip (14) is manufactured from a first plastic material. The clip (14) is rotatable relative to the bracket (12) about an axis of rotation (20). The bracket (12) is formed from a second plastic material different from the first material. The first and second plastic materials are dissimilar to each other so they do not bond to each other. A method of manufacturing the cabinet catch (10) includes the steps of injection molding the clip (14) with a first plastic material and then injection molding the bracket (12) with a second plastic material different from the first plastic material so that the clip and the bracket (12) are integrally molded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventors: Jeffery C. Lewis, Thomas E. Blake, III
  • Patent number: 7611213
    Abstract: Sliding track assembly is provided. A sliding track assembly includes a first rail, a second rail reciprocally moved with respect to the first rail, a third rail reciprocally moved with respect to the second rail, and a latch mechanism disposed on the second rail. The first rail has a retaining block, and the third rail has a protrusion. The latch mechanism includes a pair of swing arms engaged against the retaining block. When the latch mechanism is forced by the protrusion, the pair of swing arms is swung outwardly and disengaged from the retaining block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Atom International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sui-An Wu, Chih-Hao Yu
  • Patent number: 7597364
    Abstract: The invention provides a vehicle door handle device, which can fix a harness of an electric component to an arm of a grip without enlarging the arm. The invention also has a configuration in which an arm insertion hole which allows the arm of the grip to be inserted therethrough is formed in a base plate of a handle seat to be disposed between the grip and a door panel, a pair of frame plate parts are provided so as to protrude parallel to each other from an edge of the arm insertion hole, and the pair of frame plate parts are integrally provided with a holding part having formed therein a harness fastening hole which allows the harness of the electric component to be inserted therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: U-Shin Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Muneta
  • Publication number: 20090236861
    Abstract: A battery cover latching mechanism used in portable electronic device (10) is described including a cover member (11), a housing member (12), a latch base (14), a latch member (13), and a return member (15). The latch base can be securely attached to the housing member. The latch member is mounted on the latch base and movable relative to the latch base to latch the cover member to the housing member. The return member drives the latch member to move in such a manner that the movement of the latch member detaches the cover member away from the housing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (HONG KONG) LIMITED
    Inventors: ZHENG SHI, CHIH-CHIANG CHANG
  • Patent number: 7568739
    Abstract: A tool box includes a first casing, a second casing, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a locking unit, and a snapping unit. The locking unit includes a locking block. The snapping unit includes a seat, a pivot member, a snapping member, and two torsion springs. Thus, the locking mechanism is operated to open the tool box automatically, so that a user can open the tool box easily and conveniently, thereby facilitating the user operating the locking mechanism to open the tool box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Yi-Min Lee
  • Patent number: 7562915
    Abstract: A fastening mechanism for fixing a PCI bracket having a fixing piece in a casing is provided. The fastening mechanism includes a first mating member and a second mating member. The first mating member is fixed to the casing and includes a carrying piece for carrying the fixing piece and a fastening piece bending toward one end of the carrying piece. The second mating member includes a pressing piece for pressing the fixing piece, a first clipping piece bending toward one end of the pressing piece and pivotally connecting with the casing, and a second clipping piece bending toward another end of the pressing piece and corresponding in position to the fastening piece. The second mating member is rotated to combine with the first mating member, thereby securing the fixing piece in place horizontally and vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Wei-Shih Chen
  • Patent number: 7556169
    Abstract: A cover for a container is provided in one embodiment. The cover has an upper side and an underside. The underside comes in physical contact with a container when the cover is in a closed position. A hinge pivotally secures the cover to the container. A lock is secured opposite the hinge and on the underside of the cover. The lock automatically and securely affixes the cover to the container when the cover is in the closed position. A release is positioned on the upper side of the cover to disengage the lock and releases the cover from the container. In another embodiment, the cover tilts at an angle when not fully closed, revealing a high contrast color on the upper inner sidewall of the container, providing a visible indication that the container is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Cooper, Brian Bichey
  • Patent number: 7547050
    Abstract: A drawer security attachment includes an attachment flange or brackets and a cover extending from the bracket. The flange or brackets attach to the inner surface of the drawer face, and the cover extends across the width of the otherwise open top of the drawer to inhibit access to the drawer contents. The flange and cover may be a single, monolithic sheet of flexible plastic, or may comprise rigid components secured to one another by a hinge. The cover portion includes a catch engagement passage(s), with a pin(s) extending downwardly from the upper portion of the drawer opening. The panel is urged upwardly against the upper portion of the drawer opening, with the engagement passage(s) automatically catching on the pin(s) as the drawer is opened. The cover can include extendable wings to match an overall width of the cover to the drawer width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas J. Miglieri, Janet E. Miglieri
  • Publication number: 20090072547
    Abstract: A door-closing device for a domestic electrical appliance comprises a frame (12) with an aperture (14) for the introduction of a keeper (16). Arranged on the frame so as to be movable, relative to the latter, is a closing unit (22) which, in a closing position, holds the keeper fast for the purpose of keeping the door closed and, in an open position, releases said keeper for the purpose of opening the door, said closing unit, in the course of its transfer from the open position into the closing position, drawing the keeper along with it along part of said keeper's path of movement. A closing spring arrangement which acts upon the closing unit supplies the force necessary for drawing the keeper along with said unit. The closing unit can be blocked by a blocking system (30) from moving out of the open position and into the closing position, it being possible to set aside the blocking of the closing unit by relative movement of said blocking system and closing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: emz-Hanauer GmbH & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Albert Dirnberger, Georg Spiessl, Josef Bauriedl, Peter Nitsche
  • Patent number: 7475925
    Abstract: A combination structure of base plate and escutcheon comprises a base plate, a fastener and an escutcheon. The base plate has a plate and a ring-like wall surrounding the plate, and the fastener has a fastening portion, a fixing portion and a flexible portion connecting the fastening portion and the fixing portion. The fixing portion is installed on the ring-like wall and the base plate is covered with the escutcheon. The escutcheon has a sidewall, an opening and a limited-portion. The opening is formed on the sidewall and exposes the fastening portion of the fastener. The limited-portion of the escutcheon is restrained by the fastening portion of the fastener to prevent the escutcheon disengaging from the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Taiwan Fu Hsing Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Lien-Hsi Huang, Kuang-Chun Chiang
  • Patent number: 7458441
    Abstract: Latches and associated devices, including galley carts, are disclosed. An aircraft galley cart in accordance with an embodiment of the invention can include a body having a payload compartment and sized to move along an aircraft seat aisle. A door can be attached to the body to be movable between an open position and a closed position. A latch can be coupled to at least one of the door and the body, and at least a portion of the latch can be movable between a secured position and an unsecured position. When the latch is in the secured position, the door can be secured with the latch releasably coupling the door and the body together at fewer than three locations. When the latch is in the unsecured position, the door can be movable from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Ben P. Hu
  • Patent number: 7455334
    Abstract: For latching an object member, a latch member is mounted on a base member so as to be movable between a first position where the latch member does not engage the object member and a second position where the latch member engages the object member. Movement of the latch member is controlled depending on the number of times of movement of a cam member which is mounted on the base member for following movement of the object member. A lock member is interposed between the base member and at least one of the cam member and the latch member. The lock member is movable between a lock position for limiting movement of at least one of the cam member and the latch member and a non-lock position for not limiting movement of at least one of the cam member and the latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited
    Inventors: Kazukuni Hisatomi, Kazushi Kamata
  • Patent number: 7427088
    Abstract: A housing for a portable hand held device such as a palmtop computer uses a torsional latching system. The housing is made of front and rear housing laminated housing members. The torsional latch arrangement works in conjunction with a plurality of latch fingers along the edge to attach the front housing laminate with the rear housing laminate. The torsional latch arrangement has a pair of L-shaped latch ribs that engage with a T-shaped latch member by torsion of the L-shaped latch ribs into engagement with pockets adjacent the T-shaped latch member prevent movement of the two housing laminates in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: PALM, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Annerino, Sajid Patel, Dan Groebe
  • Publication number: 20080197641
    Abstract: The invention concerns a catching device (1) between a first structure (2) and a second structure (3), characterized in that it comprises at least one bolt (5) linked to the first structure and mounted in opposition to at least one elastic return means (9) tending to bring it back to a retracted position, a stop means (10) corresponding to the second structure being adapted to maintain it in a taut state when the latter is proximate the first structure, such that when the first structure is rapidly spaced apart from the second structure, each bolt is engaged with at least one corresponding retaining means (4) so as to limit the relative spacing and, when the first structure is slowly spaced apart from the second structure, each bolt and corresponding retaining means remain separated, thereby allowing complete opening between the first structure and the second structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Jyrki Heino, Mark Johnson, Jarmo Kapyla, Arne Marjamaki, Tommi Nyronen, Marika Ojala, Olli Pentikainen, Marjo Pihlavisto, Liisa Nissinen
  • Publication number: 20080129055
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a cover in a closed orientation substantially covering a chassis face of a unit; the unit containing equipment in an equipment volume; the equipment volume being partially bounded by the chassis face; includes: a positioning structure coupling the cover with the unit for selectively situating the cover in the closed orientation or in an other orientation; and a latching structure configured for latchingly engaging the chassis face and the cover for holding the cover in the closed orientation when the latching structure is in a first orientation. The latching structure does not engage the chassis face and the cover when the latching structure is in a second orientation. The latching structure is situated substantially entirely outside the equipment volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: Tyco Electronics Power Systems
    Inventors: Min C. Kim, Khanh Nguyen, Mark A. Haisler
  • Patent number: 7350836
    Abstract: A security system for constraining the degree to which a door leaf (11) may be opened; the system being selectively activated from an inoperative position in which it does not block the opening and closing of the door leaf (11), into and out of an operative position in which it does so block the opening of the door leaf (11) beyond a predetermined constrained degree; the system being characterized in that it comprises: a chassis (14) adapted for mounting, in use, adjacent an opening edge of a door leaf (11); an electric actuator (17, 28, 36) mounted on the chassis (14); an arm (18, 29, 37) operating in conjunction with said actuator (17, 28, 36) so that the actuator drives the motion of said arm (18, 29, 37) without any lost motion mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: RDS Innovations Limited
    Inventor: Robert David Simpson
  • Patent number: 7261383
    Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a cage (10), a side panel (20) and a latch device (30) for securing the side panel to the cage. The latch device includes a cap (50) attached to the side panel, an actuator (40), a resilient strip (60), and a coil spring (48). The cap includes an end plate (56) having an aperture (562) and a base (52) defining a pair of grooves (524). The actuator includes a shaft (462) fixing the coil spring therearound and extending through the aperture, and a pair of symmetric clamps (422). The resilient strip includes a free portion (64), with a projection (642) extending therefrom. The strip is attached to the base. The actuator is slidably received in the cap and the clamps slide in the grooves to engage with free portion of the strip. The projection moves upwardly and downwardly to engage with and disengage from the cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Chen-Lu Fan, Li-Ping Chen, Kuo-Chih Lin
  • Patent number: 7048464
    Abstract: One first aspect of the invention relates to a connection device for the bottom (1) and lid (3) of a box with side-panels (2). The device comprises one or more first attachment means (5) firmly connected to the bottom (1) and lid (3) and one or more attachment means (6) firmly connected to at least one side panel (2). Connection means (7) are also provided for connecting the bottom (1) and lid (3) to the side panel (2) ny interaction with the attachment means (5, 6). Each connection means (7) consists of a clamp with a resilient body (7.1), a first hook (7.2) being arranged at one end and a second hook (7.3) being arranged at the other end. The first attachment means consists of a first rail (5), arranged along an edge on the bottom (1) and lid (3) respectively, equipped with connection means consisting of one or more slots (5.4). The second attachment means consists of a second rail (6) arranged on a side panel (2) essentially parallel to the edge of the side panel (2). The first hook (7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Foldy Pac Supply BV
    Inventor: Lennart Ronnquist
  • Patent number: 6976714
    Abstract: Provided are exemplary embodiments that may include a cabinet door securing system, including, a post, a biasing member configured to disengagedly couple to the post, a knob coupled to a door, and a moveable shaft coupled to the knob, configured to couple to the plate spring, and configured to move from an actuated position to an unactuated position, wherein the plate spring couples to the post when the moveable shaft is in an unactuated position, and may be uncoupled from the post when said moveable shaft is in an actuated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventors: Ara Dionysian, Emil Dionysian, Alex Dionysian
  • Patent number: 6955379
    Abstract: A housing for a portable hand held device such as a palmtop computer uses a torsional latching system. The housing is made of front and rear housing laminated housing members. The torsional latch arrangement works in conjunction with a plurality of latch fingers along the edge to attach the front housing laminate with the rear housing laminate. The torsional latch arrangement has a pair of L-shaped latch ribs that engage with a T-shaped latch member by torsion of the L-shaped latch ribs into engagement with pockets adjacent the T-shaped latch member prevent movement of the two housing laminates in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Palm, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Annerino, Sajid Patel, Dan Groebe
  • Patent number: 6921227
    Abstract: The retaining spring is used for detachably connecting two components. The retaining spring includes a retaining plate attached to one component and an engagement spring which is moveably guided on the retaining plate between an engagement position and a released position in the direction of attachment. The engagement spring is provided with a catch edge for securing over an engagement projection which is provided on the other component. A slanted insert limb used to raise the engagement spring when the slidable component is moved in the direction of attachment. In order to connect and detach the two components with greater ease, even when space is lacking in the area immediately surrounding the connection points, the engagement spring is maintained in a position of engagement on the retaining plate by an engagement means acting against the resistance of the spring in the direction of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: A. Raymond & CIE
    Inventors: Michael De Jong, Frank Lindemann
  • Patent number: 6814225
    Abstract: A security sleeve for merchandise storage containers includes a frame that defines a storage compartment. The frame defines an insertion opening through which the merchandise is loaded into the storage compartment. The frame may be configured to hold any of a variety of merchandise packages including various items of recorded media such as video cassettes, CDs, and DVDs. The sleeve includes at least one locking member that blocks a portion of the insertion opening to prevent the merchandise from being removed from the storage compartment until the frame is destroyed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Alpha Security Products, Inc
    Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Alan J. Parris, Nicholas M. Sedon
  • Patent number: 6715805
    Abstract: A locking device having a lock latch (5) which is movable between a first protruded lock position and a second withdrawn position. The locking device has an arm (7) and a flange (10). The arm (7), the flange (10) and the lock latch (5) are arranged in a way that the arm (7) turns backwards against action of a resilient force, looked at in relation to the front end of the lock latch, simultaneously as the look latch (5) is moved backwards towards the second position and the flange (10) turns in the same direction as the arm (7) when a pressure is exerted on the side of the arm (7) turned towards the flange (10), and that the arm (7) and the flange (10) turn forward and the lock latch (5) is moved forward towards the lock position during action of the resilient force when the pressure on the arm (7) decreases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Göran Ågren
  • Patent number: 6654236
    Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a base (10), a hood (40), a pair of rails (80), and a pair of locking devices (60). The base includes a bottom plate (12) and a pair of side plates (14, 16). A pair of slideways (24) is defined in the side plates. The hood includes a top cover (42) and a bezel (44) perpendicular to the top cover. A pair of pivot rods (46) extends inwardly from opposite sides of the bezel. Each rail includes a sliding part (82) and a pivoting part (84). The sliding parts are slidably received in the slideways. Each pivoting part defines a pivoting hole (92) therein for receiving a corresponding pivot rod. The locking devices lock the hood to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jung-Chi Chen, Yun-Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 6529371
    Abstract: A bezel fastening structure includes a computer enclosure (10), a fixing member (60) and a computer bezel (100). A pair of protrusions (37, 51) is formed at one side of the enclosure. A pair of openings (40, 54) is defined in an opposite side of the enclosure. A receiving hole (59) is defined in the opposite side of the enclosure. The fixing member includes a base (62) and a lock (64). A pair of catches (72) extends away from the base. A button portion (78) is formed between the catches, and is movably received in the receiving hole. The lock has a backplate (84) for controlling movement of the button portion. A pair of hooks (102) and a pair of clasps (106) are rearwardly formed at opposite sides of the bezel. The hooks are engaged with the protrusions, and the clasps are engaged in the openings and with the catches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Haiprecision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nien Chiang Laio
  • Patent number: 6431615
    Abstract: A latching assembly includes a latch mounted to a moveable member, the latch being moveable between a first position where it engages a stop of a base member to releasably secure the moveable member to the base member and a second releasing position. An actuator drives the latch between the first and second positions; and at least one spring biases the latch towards the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Fisher Hamilton L.L.C.
    Inventor: John M. Bastian
  • Patent number: 6422613
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a gate latch comprising an integrated latch/handle assembly, a mounting bracket, a return spring and a flat head shoulder bolt. The integrated latch/handle assembly is a flat bar section comprised of various radiused and right angled bends allowing the assembly to wrap around the leading edge of the fence gate with one of the bends forming the actual latch bolt. The ends of the assembly are bent to form handles which operate the mechanism, the handles having radiused ends. The mounting bracket is a flat steel bar section with two holes provided for attaching the bracket to the gate. The return spring is held in place by the shoulder bolt which attaches the handle assembly, mounting bracket and spring firmly together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Boroviak
  • Publication number: 20020089185
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for fastening a first part to a stationary second part of a vehicle, wherein the first part is removably connected via a fastening means to the second part, wherein the fastening means comprises a spring element and the first part is coupled via the spring element to the second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Andre Hessling, Bodo Wisch
  • Patent number: 6373690
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a panel to a chassis of a computer. The apparatus includes a release member movably mounted on a top surface of the chassis and a flange fixedly mounted to a base portion of the chassis. The release member is movable between a static position and a release position. A panel is pivotally attached adjacent to a base portion of the chassis. The panel is movable between a closed position and an open position. A resilient retention member is attached to the panel. The retention member is engaged with the flange when the panel is in the closed position. The release member resiliently deflects the retention member from engagement with the flange when the release member is moved from the static position toward the release position to allow the panel to be moved from the closed position to the open position. The panel can be accurately and consistently aligned and attached to the chassis of the computer system after each removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Dell USA, L.P.
    Inventors: Eugene Buican, Greg George