Having Either Discrete Flaccid Or Thin, Nonbiasing, Integral, Connecting Hinge Patents (Class 24/487)
  • Patent number: 10519704
    Abstract: A glove box assembly includes a first tab adapted for coupling to a dashboard substrate. A glove box door includes a second tab. The glove box assembly includes a living hinge. A hinge pin is located within the tabs. The tabs are pivotably coupled to the hinge pin and the living hinge retains a longitudinal position of the hinge pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Satyanarayana Raju Vemulapati, Vijaykumar Hegde, Scott H. Dunham
  • Patent number: 10396706
    Abstract: A solar panel clamp and method of fabrication for use in affixing solar panels in the channels of elongated purlins includes a strip of sheet metal bent into an elongated U-shaped channel with a longitudinal mid-portion designated a clamp end. The channel defines a base or bight of the U-shape and channel sides extending substantially perpendicular to the base. Portions are removed from both channel sides adjacent the clamp end. The elongated channel is bent into a U-shape with the clamp end defining a bight of the U-shape and including substantially parallel, spaced apart opposed legs extending from the clamp end with the removed portions allowing limited movement of the spaced apart legs toward and away from each other. A position fixing device is associated with the clamp and designed to move the spaced apart legs toward each other in a clamping orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventor: John Powers, III
  • Patent number: 9943152
    Abstract: A container (1) has first and second body portions, (2,3) and a closure device operable to hold the first and second body portions (2,3) in a closed 5 position. The closure device comprises an engagement element (5) which extends from the first body portion (2) of the container, and a clasp (6) attached to the second body portion (3) of the container (1), and releasably engageable with the engagement element, thereby to hold the second body portion (3) in position with respect to the first body portion (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: MAGMATIC LIMITED
    Inventors: Robert Law, Joe Allam
  • Patent number: 9756752
    Abstract: The present application discloses a circuit board positioning device, comprising: a beam, a first side of the beam forming a circuit board supporting surface, and the first side being provided with a first fixture block and a second fixture block, a first positioning slot being formed on the first fixture block, a second positioning slot being formed on the second fixture block, the first positioning slot and the second positioning slot being used for limiting positions of two opposite side edges in the circuit board; a snap-fit, one end of the snap-fit being rotatablely mounted on the beam around one end of the beam; a lock mechanism being provided between the snap-fit and the beam for locking the snap-fit and the beam when the snap-fit is in a closed position, and a side of the snap-fit facing towards the beam being provided with at least one elastic pressing sheet protruding towards the beam when being in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yongda Ma, Jianbo Xian
  • Patent number: 9646475
    Abstract: A protective cover for a buckle of a latching system has a base plate having a base plate retaining area for housing the buckle. A cover is hingly coupled to the base plate and has a cover retaining area for housing the buckle when the cover is closed onto the base plate. A locking mechanism is provided for securing the cover to the base plate. An alarm circuit is housed within the base plate for sending an alarm signal when the cover is unlocked and opened prior to deactivating the alarm circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventor: Jon M. Tanner
  • Patent number: 9458951
    Abstract: A pipe or like support molded as a unitary item having a region of concertinaing, serpentine or otherwise longitudinally variable nature between end regions, for example having a longitudinally extensile linking region extending between at least a pair of the end regions the linking region can be of a concertina or serpentine type configuration. The end regions can both have passageways extending there through in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the pipe or like member to be supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Lake Products Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Leo Haynes, Christopher Charles Morrow, Michael John Sumner
  • Patent number: 9290307
    Abstract: The invention relates, in the first instance, to an electrically operated food processor (1) with a cooking vessel (6) and a lid (10) for the cooking vessel (6), wherein it is possible to lock the lid (10) in the closed position in relation to the cooking vessel (6), wherein, furthermore, the cooking vessel (6) has a base and a wall (12) extending upwards from the base, wherein the cooking-vessel wall (12) merges into a radially projecting cooking-vessel periphery (13), wherein, furthermore, the lid (10) has a periphery (16) which, in the closed position, coincides with the cooking-vessel periphery (13). The invention also relates to a vessel (6) with a lid (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Vorwerk & Co. Interholding GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Arnold, Carsten Jacobs
  • Patent number: 9273804
    Abstract: A vibration-proof clamp includes a clamp body made of hard resin having a holding part and a stud engaging part, and a rubber member that covers the holding part. The holding part has a curved wall for holding an elongated element from below and at least one elastic holding member that extends slanting downward towards a holding space. The rubber member has a rubber curved part that covers the curved wall of the clamp body, and a rubber holding member that covers the elastic holding member. When the elongated element is attached, the elastic holding member can bend inside a holding member space. The rubber member has a rubber curved extension part that curves upward along the outside of the elongated element, and connects with the rubber curved part. This arrangement prevents the elongated element from being in direct contact with the clamp body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: NEWFREY LLC
    Inventor: Yoshinori Shinoda
  • Patent number: 9198503
    Abstract: A mop having a cleaning head swivelingly disposed on a handle, a base on the cleaning head, the base including pivotable lockable clamp arms with teeth disposed thereon that engage opposite side edges of a cleaning cloth to prevent slippage of the cleaning cloth away from the cleaning head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventor: Rebecca J. Rieger
  • Patent number: 8979039
    Abstract: A clamp has a configuration in which a first portion and a second portion having a pair of semicircular inner surfaces are coupled with a thin-walled hinge, a locking portion and a locked portion are provided on free ends of the first and the second portions, the locking portion and the locked portion being lockable to each other, clamping the metal pipe inserted between the semicircular inner surfaces of the first and the second portions. An attaching hole into which an attaching member protruding from the vehicle body can be inserted and locked thereto is provided on the first portion, an opening is provided in a partition portion that separates the attaching hole and the semicircular inner surfaces, a swinging piece projects into the opening, an attaching member contact projection is provided on one side of the swinging piece, and a squeezing rib projects from the other side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Kouki Shiga
  • Patent number: 8898865
    Abstract: An improved seatbelt adjuster for holding the lap seatbelt to the shoulder belt of an automobile seatbelt. The seatbelt adjuster prevents the shoulder belt from rubbing against the neck of a wearer. The adjuster is made of a single unitary piece and therefore cannot be separated. A frame member formed of resilient material has a front portion, rear portion, top edge, bottom edge and space between the front and back portions for containing the lap seatbelt. A parallel pair of dual gussets and rails is molded into the back portion to increase the stiffness of the flap member particularly to prevent it spreading open in hot weather. A snap clip has been added to the flap to avoid inadvertent release in hot weather. A horn gate has been added to the slot to prevent snagging on clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Terry A. Campbell
  • Patent number: 8782860
    Abstract: A fastening device is provided for securing a shoelace knot. The fastening device has a base plate configured to conceal a portion of a knot of a tied shoelace, wherein the base plate has an upper surface and a lower surface. The fastening device also has a first clamping assembly arranged on the lower surface of the base plate. The first clamping assembly has an arm moveable between an open position and a closed position. The fastening device also has a second clamping assembly arranged on the lower surface of the base plate. The second clamping assembly has an arm moveable between an open position and a closed position. In addition, the arm of the first clamping assembly and the arm of the second clamping assembly are independently moveable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Scott Anthony Rogers
  • Patent number: 8407867
    Abstract: A clamp for an elongated tube style white such as a versa tube. The clamp has one fixed side that holds the versa tube's mounting structure therein. The other side of the clamp is movable, and pivots between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the lamp is held into place, and in the open position the lamp can be removed. A single screw that holds the clamp into the open or closed position is knurled and hence the device can be removed without any tools. The two sides of the clamp occupy different longitudinal positions so that they can be placed directly next to each other, and one opened without moving or disturbing the other since the two sides are in different longitudinal positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Chris Conti
  • Patent number: 8205309
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for supporting one or more structural members for installation onto a vehicle structure. A clamp may include two or more curved portions joined by a living hinge. The living hinge may enable the curved portions to pivot relative to one another, providing the clamp with an open position and a closed position. The curved portions may include respective track portions, with the first and second track portions being approximately collinear when the clamp is in the closed position. An elongated rigid latch defines an elongated channel for receiving these respective track portions to provide a rigid structural link between the first and second curved portions. A mounting point is attached to the first or the second curved portion, with the mounting point being adapted to receive the structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Thi Nguyen Pham, David R. Gladish, Thomas Edward Hansen, Alan D. Lagervall
  • Patent number: 8028381
    Abstract: A removable load bearing textile clamp including a locking clamp portion configured to accept an internally positioned rod such that a textile sheet can be led around the rod and positioned inside the clamp and secured by closing the clamp and engaging the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Edward Murray
  • Patent number: 7975745
    Abstract: In order to provide a good transferable and extremely usable transfer tool in which consumable supplies can be easily replaced while increasing rigidity in use and case assembling procedure is also simple, the transfer tool (A) includes a case body (1) which incorporates a transfer material (T), the case body (1) having a first case (2) for holding replacement parts including at least the transfer material (T); and a second case (3) engageable with and disengageable from the first case (2), for holding unchangeable parts constituting at least a part of feeding mechanism parts which feeds out the transfer material (T) to a transferred object, wherein a holding portion (K) for holding the case body (1) to a base (4) in a state where the first case (2) and the second case (3) are engaged, and a pivoting support portion (L) for pivotably supporting the second case (3) to the base (4) between a use position (P) in which the case body (1) is held to the base (4) by the holding portion (K) and a releasing retention
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Kokuyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kinya Matsushita, Hideto Shima
  • Patent number: 7856746
    Abstract: A tag clip is disclosed having a first and second section, the second section having a channel therein for securing a tube or wire. The channel includes resilient support arms extending inward from the channel sides which flex inward upon the forced entry of a tube or wire into the channel. The clip first section folds over and is secured onto the clip second section, pushing the tube or wire into the channel, further flexing the resilient support arms inward with minimal deformation of the tube or cable therein. The equal and opposite forces provided by the first section contact with the tube and the resiliency of the flexible arms allow the tag to be secured to the tube or wire while at the same time allow for the tag to be moved into different positions along the length of the wire or tube. The tag has a rigid molded plastic member that provides the medical personnel or health care providers a substantially stiff or hard surface so that they can write legibly thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Luis Araujo
  • Patent number: 7837405
    Abstract: The invention includes a combination of coupling clip structure and a plurality of binding elements for binding stacks of perforated sheets for delivery to an automated machine. The combination comprises at least two binding elements, and at least one coupling clip discrete from said at least two binding elements. At least one of the coupling clip or the binding element(s) comprises at least one recess, at least a portion of at least one said binding element being disposed in said recess in the coupling clip and/or at least a portion of the coupling clip being disposed in said recess in the binding element, the coupling clip coupling the at least two binding elements together in a predetermined adjacent spatial relationship. The coupling clip may be separated from the binding elements by the automated machine. The invention further includes a method of coupling a plurality of binding elements together with at least one coupling clip for delivery to an automated machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: General Binding Corporation
    Inventor: Samuel P. Amdahl
  • Publication number: 20100162537
    Abstract: A spacer clip including a flange, a shank extending from the flange that can be inserted into a through in a member being attached to, legs extending from the end part of the shank, connected by hinges to the shank end part so as that they can pivot from an initial attitude to a clamping attitude wherein they are substantially parallel to the flange. Levers extend from root portions of the legs toward the tip ends of the legs so that they can pivot together with the legs. The legs have leg-side pawls in the portions thereof adjacent to the shank end part, which extend to the flange side when the legs are in the clamping attitude, the flange has flange-side pawls for engaging the leg-side pawls and maintaining the legs in the clamping attitude, and slits are formed on either side of the flange-side pawls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: NEWFREY LLC
    Inventor: Daisuke SHIBA
  • Patent number: 7621488
    Abstract: A pipe clamp cushion and a method for installing pipes and tube-like structures is provided by an polyester elastemer material that is independently connected to a support structure and has hinges molded as part of each arms of the clamp. The hinges are formed in a U-shaped arrangement, which does not compromise the material of the cushion, and thus allow the cushion arms to maintain strength and elastic properties. This arrangement permits easier installation for a wide variety of tube sizes and configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Eugene Miller
  • Patent number: 7559125
    Abstract: A clip for use in holding cords or tubing, comprising an upper jaw and a lower jaw, each of them having a grasping part and articulated with respect to the other about a hinge between a closed position and an open position; a spring biasing the jaws into the closed position; a tubular sheath having a longitudinal opening, connected between the jaws; and a means for moving the jaws into the open position. The longitudinal opening is open when the jaws are in the open position and closed when the jaws are in the closed position. The sheath is adapted to receive cords or tubing through the longitudinal opening when the jaws are in the open position, and retain the cords or tubing when the jaws are in the closed position. The sheath is adapted to retain medical tubing or electrical cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Carol Cofer
  • Publication number: 20090019677
    Abstract: The quick-release device for attaching a vertical load bearing wire (32) to a supporting wire (30), which extends in a plane that is essentially perpendicular to the load bearing wire (32), is used for growing climbing plants along said load bearing wire (32). The device comprises a bracket (1) having clip-on fastening means for being suspended from the supporting wire (30), and holding means for assuring the suspension of the load bearing wire (32). The holding means have a female element provided in the carrier (1) and is capable of interacting with a male element fixed to the load bearing wire (32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: A. RAYMOND ET CIE
    Inventor: Josep Torres
  • Publication number: 20080092349
    Abstract: A clip for use in holding cords or tubing, comprising an upper jaw and a lower jaw, each of them having a grasping part and articulated with respect to the other about a hinge between a closed position and an open position; a spring biasing the jaws into the closed position; a tubular sheath having a longitudinal opening, connected between the jaws; and a means for moving the jaws into the open position. The longitudinal opening is open when the jaws are in the open position and closed when the jaws are in the closed position. The sheath is adapted to receive cords or tubing through the longitudinal opening when the jaws are in the open position, and retain the cords or tubing when the jaws are in the closed position. The sheath is adapted to retain medical tubing or electrical cords.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Carol Cofer
  • Patent number: 6694589
    Abstract: A process for the handling of a tow of fibres during manufacture and subsequent processing prior to splicing is described. The process includes the step of applying a clip to the free end of the tow, prior to transport of the tow. The fibre is preferably a carbon fibre precursor, and the clip is preferably removed and the tow spliced prior to the steps of oxidation and carbonization to form the carbon fibre.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Acordis UK Limited
    Inventor: David Mac Service
  • Patent number: 6575411
    Abstract: A curved portion 1g of a lead line set 1e is received in a recessed portion 13d that is formed in an inner face 13c of a base piece 13 in the open state. An inner face 17a of a first folded piece 17 is folded on the inner face 13c of the base piece 13, and the curved portion 1g of the lead line set 1e is sandwiched between the base piece 13 and the first folded piece 17. Thereafter, an inner face 21a of a second folded piece 21 is folded on an outer face 17e of the first folded piece 17, and the lead line set 1e portion that is slightly nearer the distal end than the lead line set 1e portion that is folded along a folding line X is sandwiched between the first and the second folded pieces 17 and 21.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuyoshi Serizawa, Minoru Kubota
  • Patent number: 6460231
    Abstract: Presented is a quick-engaging and quick-release device for securely supporting elongated objects in either a horizontal or vertical attitude on a vertical support structure or surface or overhead on an appropriate support surface. A base member has end and side walls. Two oppose side walls are correspondingly notched. A resiliently deformable block of cushioning material may be removably inserted into the hollow shell so that it is flush with the top edges of the end and side walls. A hollow cap member is pivotally attached to the base member and may be pivoted away from the base member into open position to receive an elongated object. When the hollow cap member is pivoted into closed condition, the elongated object is retained by and between the base member and the cap member. A latch assembly is provided for selectively releasably locking the cap and base members in closed condition about the elongated object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Donald E. Bourgerie
  • Publication number: 20020133918
    Abstract: A collar clip is integrally made of a plastic material by injection molding and is formed of a connection portion, a front plate, and a rear plate. The front plate is connected at one end with the connection portion and is provided at other end with a holding hole. The rear plate is connected at one end with the connection portion and is provided at other end with a protrusion corresponding in location to and engageable with the holding hole, and a retaining portion for retaining the bonding wire of a communication device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Kevin Liou, Fang-Chang Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6272722
    Abstract: A device is designed to retain a cooling piece of a computer CPU. The device comprises a main body which is provided in two segments thereof with two legs opposite to each other. The legs are provided with a hook extending outwards and upwards, and a retainer of a curved construction. The main body is provided with two winged portions which are located at both ends thereof and provided with a through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Yaw-Huey Lai
  • Patent number: 6266852
    Abstract: A bind ring is a ring shaped body with a zigzag lock end and a zigzag receiving end. The bind ring further comprises an inclining arc part, two arc parts, and two circular recesses. The zigzag lock end further has a zigzag part, and the zigzag receiving end has a curved engaging channel with a zigzag surface. Two guide blocks are disposed at the both ends on the channel respectively to assist the lock end engaging with the receiving end. The zigzag lock end is adjustably engaging with the zigzag receiving end by way of the zigzag surface and the zigzag part meshing each other to tie up a bundle of electric wires or cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Chin-Lien Tai
  • Patent number: 6241287
    Abstract: A coupon card assembly (10) having a first card half (12) and a second card half (14). Both the first (12) and second (14) card halves include a liner (20, 26) and two layers of card stock (22, 24, 28, 30) sandwiching the respective liner (20, 26) therebetween. A number of mini-coupons (36) are detachably cut into each of the card halves (12, 14) through an inner layer of card stock (24, 30). The card assembly (10) is characterized by a living hinge (40) interconnecting the first card half (12) with the second card half (14) to define a dual coupon card assembly (10) wherein the first card half (12) may be folded upon the second card half (14). The subject invention provides a structurally sound coupon card assembly (10) with numerous mini-coupons (36) wherein the coupon card assembly (10) may be folded to form a relatively compact card preferably the size of a standard credit card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Saxon, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Best, James F. Turner
  • Patent number: 6233869
    Abstract: A supporting frame for a portion of a stem of a plant comprises a generally arc-shaped guiding member, two spacers projecting away from an inside concave surface of the guiding member, and a pressing member pivotally connected to the spacers. The guiding member, the pressing member and each spacer define a U-shaped cross-section for permitting insertion of the portion of the stem therein. The pressing member is deformable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the pressing member is away from the guiding member and the portion of the stem can be inserted between the guiding member and the pressing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Hortimat Inc.
    Inventor: Jérôme Dearo
  • Patent number: 6105216
    Abstract: The clamp assembly secures a tubular member to a support structure. A first embodiment of the clamp assembly includes a base for attachment to the support structure. A saddle, supported on the base, has an axial pocket extending laterally between a pair of spaced parallel sides for receiving the tubular member. A U-shaped clamp member having first and second legs straddles the saddle to clamp the tubular member in the pocket of the saddle. The assembly is characterized by a snap together connection for connecting the U-shaped clamp member and the saddle. A second embodiment of the clamp assembly includes a U-shaped clamp member having a first pair of spaced apart legs and a second pair of spaced apart legs forming an axial pocket therebetween for receiving a tubular member. A base is attached to the U-shaped clamp member with a living hinge for pivoting from an opened position to a closed position enclosing the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Hydra-Zorb Co.
    Inventor: Orval A. Opperthauser
  • Patent number: 6061882
    Abstract: The invention concerns a clamping device for sheet products and an associated holding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Padis Preisauszeichnung + Display Systeme GmbH & Co. Vertriebs-K.G.
    Inventor: Klaus Otte-Wiese
  • Patent number: 6041480
    Abstract: A seat belt lock cover for use with a seat belt having a seat belt release button, for selectively preventing a child from accessing the seat belt release button, comprising a main housing and a cover plate. The main housing has a pair of side surfaces, a top surface and an elongated channel for allowing the seat belt to pass through the housing. The top surface has an open portion for selectively allowing access to the release button of the seat belt extending through the elongated channel. The cover plate selectively covers the open portion and prevents access to the release button. A pair of release latches, located on opposite side surfaces, prevent the cover plate form opening unless operated simultaneously by a large, adult-size hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Paula White
  • Patent number: 5960522
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a folded section of ribbon cable. Two elongate members are connected to each other at a first end so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position. The ribbon cable is positioned adjacent the inner surfaces of the first and second members when the members are in the open position. The first and second members are then moved into a closed position wherein a securing device secures the first and second members against the tension of the folded ribbon cable. The securing or latching mechanism is preferably comprised of two serrated posts formed on one member that mates with two opening formed in the other member. A wedge in each of the two openings engages with the serrations to secure the two members together against the tension of the folded ribbon cable, however, the tip of the wedge elastically deforms when the posts are removed from the openings in response to an installer separating the two members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig L. Boe
  • Patent number: 5906342
    Abstract: A holding device (1) made of plastic for attachment to a support for holding and supporting at least one tube-shaped body comprises an attachment portion (2) connectable to the support and a holding portion (3) of two half-dishes (4, 5) enveloping the tube-shaped body. The two half-dishes are connected with each other at the side next to the attachment portion (2). At the side opposite the attachment portion (2), the half-dishes are connected by at least one hinged element (6) while at the side next to the attachment portion (2) they are joined by a snap-in catch device (7) arranged within the attachment portion (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: TRW United-Carr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Willibald Kraus
  • Patent number: 5820048
    Abstract: An improvement for a routing clip is provided by a hinge latch adjacent to the folded hinge portion thereof. The hinge latch includes a male latching member on one side of the hinge portion and a female latching member in a corresponding position on the other side of the hinge portion, both male and female latching members being on one side of the routing clip. When being engaged with the female latching member, the male latching member deflects in a direction transverse to its length to provide a more secure latching mechanism as a back-up to the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Shereyk, Arnold DeCarlo
  • Patent number: 5788315
    Abstract: Tonneau cover apparatus for rail mounted tonneau cover systems for pick-up truck beds and the like are provided. The invention included a spacer member for a accommodating seasonal dimensional variations in covers; adjustable corner connector apparatus for non-rectangular truck beds; improved adjustable snap-type closure members for covers, and an improved snapless cover fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Design Automotive Group, Inc.
    Inventor: W. David Tucker
  • Patent number: 5778575
    Abstract: A garment hanger with hook adapted to receive a size tab. A portion of the hook includes a formed region or tab receiving web preferably with an opening, and adapted to hold a foldable size tab thereon. The tab receiving web may be formed to protect the edges of the tab thereon. The foldable size tab includes first and second arms which are joined by a living hinge arrangement, preferably molded integrally, which allows the size tab to be molded flat and then folded on the web of the garment hanger to allow attachment of the size tab to the web. The size tab may be formed with three panels joined by a pair of living hinges to provide three viewing surfaces for the sizing indicia or other information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Carlisle Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford A. Deupree, Michael W. Dezelon, Roy K. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5653003
    Abstract: A shoulder harness recoil restraint clip comprising a clip member having first and second engagement portions flexibly connected by a flex hinge that allows the first and second engagement portions to rotate in a manner such that a first surface of the first engagement portion covered with a first plurality of gripping ridges is rotatable into a position contacting a second surface of the second engagement portion covered with a second plurality of gripping ridges. The first and second engagement portions are lockable to a section of shoulder harness strap material adjacent the recoil mechanism by a locking tab positionable with a locking tab receiving channel formed through one of the engagement portions. The locking tab is held in place by locking tab ridges positioned on either side of a locking tab receiving channel. The locking tab has an engagement head adapted to seat between adjacent locking ridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventor: William David Freeman
  • Patent number: 5634480
    Abstract: A hair clip is made from an elongated metal plate by stamping. The hair clip comprises a base plate section, a clamping plate section, a hinge section connected between the base plate section and the clamping plate section, a retaining section extending from one end of the clamping plate, and a catch plate raised from the base plate section at one end remote from the hinge section. The retaining section has a V-shaped profile with retaining holes and the catch plate has two substantially C-shaped pawls which engage the retaining holes of the retaining section to secure the clamping plate section in the clamping position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Chaio-Lan Lu
  • Patent number: 5572776
    Abstract: A snap-action fastener suitable for joining two or more members using automated or manual assembly techniques. The fastener includes a pair of legs spaced apart and having complementary ends, with each of the legs being formed so as to be resilient in bending. Flexibly attached to the complementary ends of the legs are first and second arms, respectively. The arms are attached to the legs so as to form first and second hinges, respectively. The arms can be attached to the complementary ends at a midpoint or an end of each arm. Furthermore, the arms are flexibly attached to each other so as to form a third hinge intermediate the first and second hinges. To generate the desired snap-action, the combined lengths of the arms between the complementary ends of the legs is greater than the distance between the complementary ends, such that the snap-action occurs during operation of the fastener between a release position and a fastening position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Delco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Morgan D. Murphy, Dale J. Igram
  • Patent number: 5535969
    Abstract: A clip for mounting at least one element includes a base member having a first rigid engagement member for engaging the element, and a first substantially flexible arm member for resiliently engaging the element. A cover member is also included for cooperative engagement with the base member and has a second rigid engagement member for engaging the element, and a second substantially flexible arm member for resiliently engaging the element, wherein the first and second rigid engagement members and the first and second substantially flexible arms cooperate to capture the element therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Duffy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5494245
    Abstract: A wiring harness retainer clip for securing a wiring harness to a vehicle body panel. The retainer clip includes a first clip portion and a second clip portion connected together using one or more flexible webs. The first clip portion includes an extending axle which is pivotally engageable with an extending bushing on the first clip portion. The two clip portions are rotatable between an open position and a closed position. A mechanism is provided for securing the first clip portion to the second clip portion in the closed position. A mechanism for securing the clip assembly to the vehicle body panel is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yasutaka Suzuki, Tim M. Dangel
  • Patent number: 5411427
    Abstract: A balloon weight for counterbalancing the lift of helium filled balloons and the like. The balloon weight has a molded plastic body of aesthetically pleasing appearance, with a clip or latch assembly at the top thereof. The latch assembly includes a pair of separated lobes which are adapted to be engaged within the aperture of a latch plate which is folded about a hinge and laid thereover. A receptacle is defined between the lobes for receiving a balloon ribbon or string which is then clinched between the side edges of the aperture and a base member upon which the aperture closes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Premium Balloon Accessories
    Inventors: David C. Nelson, Robert L. Waldo, Martin A. Meluch
  • Patent number: 5385373
    Abstract: A tamper-evident, self-locking cover for mechanical and electrical connections includes a unitary, molded plastic member including two generally semi-cylindrical pockets connected by a first living hinge and including snap-fit, self-locking, tamper-evident means of connection. Integrally therewith and extending from one pocket half are a pair of generally cylindrical receptacles arranged so as to provide three gripping fingers. Integrally therewith and extending from the other enclosing portion are a pair of stem members which are initially oriented in a non-engaging orientation and which are connected by means of a second living hinge. As the enclosing portions are flexed and closed around the object to be encased and protected, the stem members are flexed into a controlled engaging orientation so as to be brought into alignment with the female receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: Cummins Engine Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Vaughn R. Love
  • Patent number: 5285556
    Abstract: An integral polymeric clamp device is disclosed. The clamp device is comprised of a base portion to which is hingedly connected a two arm clamping assembly actuable from an open position to a closed position wherein a component of a second arm of the assembly clampingly engages a stop surface formed on the base of the assembly. The arms are locked in clamping position when a hinged connection between the arms shifts from a first to a second side of a line extending between the stop surface and the hinged connection of the first arm to the body portion Movement of the clamp member into engagement with the fixed stop portion on the body of the clamp is assured by a locator link hingedly interposed between the body portion and the arm carrying the moving component of the clamp assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventors: Joseph E. Shorin, Peter Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5277387
    Abstract: A plastic holding element 1 for the mounting of at least one tube or cable 2 includes a connecting base 4 attachable to a support and carrying a mounting area comprising two opposed dish-like elements 5, 6. The dish-like elements are connected to each other at a lower end and are further connected on both sides of the lower region to a resilient intermediate piece, which joins into connecting base 4. The dish-like elements 5, 6 are connectable to each other adjacent their upper end portions via contact elements 16, 17. Elastic strip portions 9, 10 connect the two dish-like elements with each other and are joined thereto at an interior end 13 and exterior ends 11, 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: TRW United Carr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Lewis, Daniel G. O'Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5255458
    Abstract: Injection molded corners for framing pictures are designed to be attached to each corner of a picture and operate as both a hanger for a picture, as well as a means of providing a three-dimensional effect by holding the picture away from a supporting wall. The corners can be decorative so as to function totally as a frame, and a small injection molded pin is abuttable against the cardboard backing of a picture to effectively lock the corners in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventor: Alan R. Piel
  • Patent number: 5230496
    Abstract: A mounting clamp for mounting a medical device on a vertical IV mounting pole comprises a base member for attachment to an article to be supported, a pair of arms having an inner end and an outer end and attached to the base at the inner end, a plurality of gripping fingers extending inward from the arms for gripping a support pole, and a latching finger at the outer end of each of the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: Med-Safe Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Shillington, Gilbert Packer