CA3016476A1 - Replacement fastener for a junction box lid - Google Patents
Replacement fastener for a junction box lid Download PDFInfo
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- CA3016476A1 CA3016476A1 CA3016476A CA3016476A CA3016476A1 CA 3016476 A1 CA3016476 A1 CA 3016476A1 CA 3016476 A CA3016476 A CA 3016476A CA 3016476 A CA3016476 A CA 3016476A CA 3016476 A1 CA3016476 A1 CA 3016476A1
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- arm
- fastener
- container
- bracket
- threaded
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- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 10
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 1
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Abstract
A fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides is provided. The fastener comprises a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt; a threaded bolt or screw; a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem. The bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via the threaded bolt or screw through the hole in the second arm. Upon use, the first arm of the bracket extends over the lid, and the threaded stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of the container and secured using one or more securing means. Also provided are kits comprising one or more fasteners.
Description
REPLACEMENT FASTENER FOR A JUNCTION BOX LID
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to replacement fastener for a junction box lid, fastener kits and methods of using the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A junction box houses electric connections and functions to protect the connections and provides a safety barrier. It must be easily accessible to allow for maintenance activity. In certain types of junction boxes, the cover/lid of the junction box is removably fixed to the body of the junction box by use of a series of screws which pass through holes in the lid into threaded channels in the body of junction box. Exposure to the elements outdoors can result in degradation of these attachments making these attachment points unusable. As such, there is a need in the art for replacement fasteners for junction box covers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a replacement fastener for a junction box lid. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said fastener comprising: a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt; a threaded bolt or screw; and a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem; wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit comprising one components of a fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said kit comprising: a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S
shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt; a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
optionally a threaded bolt or screw; and optionally securing means; and wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said thread stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided, a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides, comprising:
(a) obtaining a fastener comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt or screw; said bracket reversibly connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw; and said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second fastener to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) if necessary, loosening the thread bolt or screw on each fastener to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to replacement fastener for a junction box lid, fastener kits and methods of using the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A junction box houses electric connections and functions to protect the connections and provides a safety barrier. It must be easily accessible to allow for maintenance activity. In certain types of junction boxes, the cover/lid of the junction box is removably fixed to the body of the junction box by use of a series of screws which pass through holes in the lid into threaded channels in the body of junction box. Exposure to the elements outdoors can result in degradation of these attachments making these attachment points unusable. As such, there is a need in the art for replacement fasteners for junction box covers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a replacement fastener for a junction box lid. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said fastener comprising: a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt; a threaded bolt or screw; and a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem; wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit comprising one components of a fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said kit comprising: a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S
shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt; a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
optionally a threaded bolt or screw; and optionally securing means; and wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said thread stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided, a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides, comprising:
(a) obtaining a fastener comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt or screw; said bracket reversibly connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw; and said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second fastener to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) if necessary, loosening the thread bolt or screw on each fastener to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
2 In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides, comprising:
(a) obtaining a T or L shaped element;
said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second T or L shaped element to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) attaching a bracket to each of said T shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw;
wherein each of said brackets comprises a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, and wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of said threaded bolt or screw;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 provides a view of a degraded channel in the body of junction box.
(a) obtaining a T or L shaped element;
said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second T or L shaped element to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) attaching a bracket to each of said T shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw;
wherein each of said brackets comprises a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, and wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of said threaded bolt or screw;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 provides a view of a degraded channel in the body of junction box.
3 Figure 2 provides a view of two assembled fasteners of the embodiments invention. In the embodiment on the right side an optional second nut (30) is shown.
Figure 3 provides a front view of a rail junction box with the lid affixed using an embodiment of the fastener of the invention. The original attachment points (200) are visible in the top and bottom portions of the lid.
Figure 4 provides a front view of a rail junction box with the lid removed and an embodiment of the fastener of the invention attached to the body of the junction box.
Figure 5 provides a partial view of a rail junction box without the lid and details an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 6 provides a partial view of a rail junction box with the lid and details an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 7 provides a view of two assembled fastener of one embodiment of the invention, showing L shaped element.
Figure 8 provides a view of the bracket and T shaped element of an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 9 provides an alternative view of the bracket and T shaped element of an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 10 provides a view of a washer for use in an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 11 provides an illustration of an optional cover (43) for nut.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention provides fasteners for junction boxes. In certain embodiments, the fasteners are used as replacement fasteners when the original attachment points are unusable.
Also provided are methods of using the fasteners, fastener kits and components of the fastener.
Fastener The present invention provides a fastener (100) for securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides. The container may be but is not limited to a junction box such as rail junction box. The fastener comprises a bracket (10), a T or L shaped element (20), a threaded
Figure 3 provides a front view of a rail junction box with the lid affixed using an embodiment of the fastener of the invention. The original attachment points (200) are visible in the top and bottom portions of the lid.
Figure 4 provides a front view of a rail junction box with the lid removed and an embodiment of the fastener of the invention attached to the body of the junction box.
Figure 5 provides a partial view of a rail junction box without the lid and details an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 6 provides a partial view of a rail junction box with the lid and details an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 7 provides a view of two assembled fastener of one embodiment of the invention, showing L shaped element.
Figure 8 provides a view of the bracket and T shaped element of an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 9 provides an alternative view of the bracket and T shaped element of an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 10 provides a view of a washer for use in an embodiment of the fastener of the invention.
Figure 11 provides an illustration of an optional cover (43) for nut.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention provides fasteners for junction boxes. In certain embodiments, the fasteners are used as replacement fasteners when the original attachment points are unusable.
Also provided are methods of using the fasteners, fastener kits and components of the fastener.
Fastener The present invention provides a fastener (100) for securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides. The container may be but is not limited to a junction box such as rail junction box. The fastener comprises a bracket (10), a T or L shaped element (20), a threaded
4 bolt or screw (30) and optionally a securing means (40). The securing means optionally comprises one or more nuts (42) and one or more washers (41).
Referring to the figures, the bracket (10) comprises a first arm (11), a stem (12) and a second arm (13) in a Z or S shaped configuration. In use, the first arm extends over the lid and must be of sufficient length to clamp the lid in place on the container. Optionally, the first arm includes a hole to allow for insertion of a screw into the lid of the container. In use, the stem extends along the side of the container and/or lip of the lid and must be of sufficient depth to allow for attachment of the bracket to the side of the container using the T or L
element (20) and bolt, threaded bolt or screw (30). The second arm includes a hole (14) sized to allow for the insertion of a threaded bolt or screw (30) which attaches the T or L shaped element of the fastener to the bracket. The second arm (13) and location of hole (14) in second arm is such that it allows for attachment of the T or L element to the second arm of the bracket to the side of the container through a hole. The bracket may be constructed out of any appropriate materials known in the art. A worker skilled in the art would appreciate that brackets for use in fasteners exposed to outdoor elements (such as rail junction box fasteners) should be constructed from weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The bracket (10) is attached to a T or L
shaped element (20) with a threaded bolt or screw (30). Optionally, one or more washer(s) (31) and/or one or more nut(s) (32) are used when attaching the bracket to the T or L shaped element. The thread bolt or screw (30) may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The T or L shaped element (20) comprises an arm having a threaded channel (21) sized to allow for insertion of the threaded bolt or screw (30) and a stem, optionally a threaded stem (22). The T or L shaped element may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. In specific embodiments, the T or L shaped element is constructed from a threaded rod with a coupling nut welded to the end. In alternative embodiments, the T or L shaped element are formed as a unitary structure, optionally molded. The stem (22) of the T or L
shaped element (20) is for insertion into a hole in the side of the body of the container and is secured with one or more securing means (40) including but not limited to nuts (41) or nuts and washers (42) or clamps. The nuts and washers may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The washers may be also constructed out of neoprene.
In a specific embodiment the following materials are used in the fastener:
= Brackets.
= T shaped elements constructed from a 5/16" coupling nut / 1" long and 1/2" treaded rod welded together.
= 5/16" bolts / 1 1/2" long.
= 5/16" lock nuts.
= 5/16" washers.
= 5/16" 1/4" set screw ring.
= 1/2" lock nuts.
= 1/2" washers.
= 1/2" rubber washers.
= 1/2" lock nut nylon caps.
In one embodiment, the "5/16" coupling nut welded to a 1/2" treaded shaft" is replaced with 1"
shaft diameter shaft, machined down to 1/2" treaded shaft. The 1" diameter area is 3/4" long and has a 5/16" treaded hole inside. The 1/2" treaded area is 2/12" long. The shaft total length for this embodiment is 3 1/4".
Kits The present invention also provides kits for use in fastening a removable lid a container. The kits may include the components of one or more fasteners. In certain embodiments, the kits comprise all the components for one or more fasteners. The components may be in an assembled form or as unassembled components. In other embodiments, the kit components are limited to the bracket and T or L shaped element of one or more fasteners.
In other embodiments, the kit components comprise the bracket, T or L shaped element and threaded bolt or screw for one or more fasteners. Optionally, instructions for use are provided. In further embodiments, each component is sold separately.
In specific embodiments, the kits comprise one or more of the following elements:
In a specific embodiment the following materials are used in the fastener:
= Brackets.
= T shaped elements constructed from a 5/16" coupling nut / 1" long and 1/2" treaded rod welded together.
= 5/16" bolts / 1 1/2" long.
= 5/16" lock nuts.
= 5/16" washers.
= 5/161/4" set screw ring.
= 1/2" lock nuts.
= 1/2" washers.
= 1/2" rubber washers.
= 1/2" lock nut nylon caps.
Methods of Using Fastener The present invention also provides methods of using the fasteners to secure a removable lid to a container. In certain embodiments, the present invention provides methods of using the fasteners to secure a lid to a junction box, such as a rail junction box. In specific embodiments, the fasteners are used as a replacement attachment means, for example when exposure to the elements has rendered the original attachment means unusable. The methods of using the fastener may, if necessary, include removal of the lid and/or drilling hole(s) in one or more sides of the box near the lid edge.
A sufficient number of fasteners are provided to secure the lid to the container. In certain embodiments, two fasteners are provided (e.g. a fastener on two opposite sides of a four-sided container). In other embodiments, four fasteners are provided (e.g. a fastener for each side of a four-sided box). The fasteners may be provided as individual components sold separately, in kit form.
In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides comprising the following steps:
(a) Obtain a partially assembled fastener of the invention. The partially assembled fastener comprises a bracket connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw.
(b) Insert the stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the stem distal to the arm is inside the container.
(c) Secure a fastening means to the end of the stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap.
(d) Repeat steps (a) to (c) to secure at least one more fastener to another side. If only using two fasteners, the fasteners are secured to opposite sides.
(e) If necessary, the thread bolt or screw on each fastener is loosened to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening.
(f) If necessary, the bracket on each fastener is rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(g) The lid is positioned over the opening;
(h) The first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener is tightened to secure each fastener in place.
In certain embodiments, disassembled components of the fastener of the invention are used in a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides. The method comprising:
(a) Insert the stem of the T or L shaped element of the invention through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the stem distal to the arm is inside the container (b) Secure a fastening means to the end of the stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap.
(c) Repeat the above steps to secure each additional T or L shaped element used.
(d) Attach a bracket to each of the T or L shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw.
(e) If necessary, the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(f) The lid is positioned over the opening. This step can be done prior to attaching the brackets to the T or L shaped elements.
(g) The first arm of the bracket of each fastener is positioned in place over the lid and the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener is tightened to secure each fastener in place.
Referring to the figures, the bracket (10) comprises a first arm (11), a stem (12) and a second arm (13) in a Z or S shaped configuration. In use, the first arm extends over the lid and must be of sufficient length to clamp the lid in place on the container. Optionally, the first arm includes a hole to allow for insertion of a screw into the lid of the container. In use, the stem extends along the side of the container and/or lip of the lid and must be of sufficient depth to allow for attachment of the bracket to the side of the container using the T or L
element (20) and bolt, threaded bolt or screw (30). The second arm includes a hole (14) sized to allow for the insertion of a threaded bolt or screw (30) which attaches the T or L shaped element of the fastener to the bracket. The second arm (13) and location of hole (14) in second arm is such that it allows for attachment of the T or L element to the second arm of the bracket to the side of the container through a hole. The bracket may be constructed out of any appropriate materials known in the art. A worker skilled in the art would appreciate that brackets for use in fasteners exposed to outdoor elements (such as rail junction box fasteners) should be constructed from weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The bracket (10) is attached to a T or L
shaped element (20) with a threaded bolt or screw (30). Optionally, one or more washer(s) (31) and/or one or more nut(s) (32) are used when attaching the bracket to the T or L shaped element. The thread bolt or screw (30) may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The T or L shaped element (20) comprises an arm having a threaded channel (21) sized to allow for insertion of the threaded bolt or screw (30) and a stem, optionally a threaded stem (22). The T or L shaped element may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. In specific embodiments, the T or L shaped element is constructed from a threaded rod with a coupling nut welded to the end. In alternative embodiments, the T or L shaped element are formed as a unitary structure, optionally molded. The stem (22) of the T or L
shaped element (20) is for insertion into a hole in the side of the body of the container and is secured with one or more securing means (40) including but not limited to nuts (41) or nuts and washers (42) or clamps. The nuts and washers may be constructed out of various materials and if necessary weather resistant materials such as aluminum. The washers may be also constructed out of neoprene.
In a specific embodiment the following materials are used in the fastener:
= Brackets.
= T shaped elements constructed from a 5/16" coupling nut / 1" long and 1/2" treaded rod welded together.
= 5/16" bolts / 1 1/2" long.
= 5/16" lock nuts.
= 5/16" washers.
= 5/16" 1/4" set screw ring.
= 1/2" lock nuts.
= 1/2" washers.
= 1/2" rubber washers.
= 1/2" lock nut nylon caps.
In one embodiment, the "5/16" coupling nut welded to a 1/2" treaded shaft" is replaced with 1"
shaft diameter shaft, machined down to 1/2" treaded shaft. The 1" diameter area is 3/4" long and has a 5/16" treaded hole inside. The 1/2" treaded area is 2/12" long. The shaft total length for this embodiment is 3 1/4".
Kits The present invention also provides kits for use in fastening a removable lid a container. The kits may include the components of one or more fasteners. In certain embodiments, the kits comprise all the components for one or more fasteners. The components may be in an assembled form or as unassembled components. In other embodiments, the kit components are limited to the bracket and T or L shaped element of one or more fasteners.
In other embodiments, the kit components comprise the bracket, T or L shaped element and threaded bolt or screw for one or more fasteners. Optionally, instructions for use are provided. In further embodiments, each component is sold separately.
In specific embodiments, the kits comprise one or more of the following elements:
In a specific embodiment the following materials are used in the fastener:
= Brackets.
= T shaped elements constructed from a 5/16" coupling nut / 1" long and 1/2" treaded rod welded together.
= 5/16" bolts / 1 1/2" long.
= 5/16" lock nuts.
= 5/16" washers.
= 5/161/4" set screw ring.
= 1/2" lock nuts.
= 1/2" washers.
= 1/2" rubber washers.
= 1/2" lock nut nylon caps.
Methods of Using Fastener The present invention also provides methods of using the fasteners to secure a removable lid to a container. In certain embodiments, the present invention provides methods of using the fasteners to secure a lid to a junction box, such as a rail junction box. In specific embodiments, the fasteners are used as a replacement attachment means, for example when exposure to the elements has rendered the original attachment means unusable. The methods of using the fastener may, if necessary, include removal of the lid and/or drilling hole(s) in one or more sides of the box near the lid edge.
A sufficient number of fasteners are provided to secure the lid to the container. In certain embodiments, two fasteners are provided (e.g. a fastener on two opposite sides of a four-sided container). In other embodiments, four fasteners are provided (e.g. a fastener for each side of a four-sided box). The fasteners may be provided as individual components sold separately, in kit form.
In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides comprising the following steps:
(a) Obtain a partially assembled fastener of the invention. The partially assembled fastener comprises a bracket connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw.
(b) Insert the stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the stem distal to the arm is inside the container.
(c) Secure a fastening means to the end of the stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap.
(d) Repeat steps (a) to (c) to secure at least one more fastener to another side. If only using two fasteners, the fasteners are secured to opposite sides.
(e) If necessary, the thread bolt or screw on each fastener is loosened to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening.
(f) If necessary, the bracket on each fastener is rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(g) The lid is positioned over the opening;
(h) The first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener is tightened to secure each fastener in place.
In certain embodiments, disassembled components of the fastener of the invention are used in a method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides. The method comprising:
(a) Insert the stem of the T or L shaped element of the invention through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the stem distal to the arm is inside the container (b) Secure a fastening means to the end of the stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap.
(c) Repeat the above steps to secure each additional T or L shaped element used.
(d) Attach a bracket to each of the T or L shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw.
(e) If necessary, the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(f) The lid is positioned over the opening. This step can be done prior to attaching the brackets to the T or L shaped elements.
(g) The first arm of the bracket of each fastener is positioned in place over the lid and the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener is tightened to secure each fastener in place.
Claims (8)
1. A fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said fastener comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt;
a threaded bolt or screw; and a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt;
a threaded bolt or screw; and a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the securing means comprises one or more nuts or one or more nuts and one or more washers.
3. A kit comprising one components of a fastener for a container having a removable lid and a body having straight sides, said kit comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt;
a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
optionally a threaded bolt or screw; and optionally securing means; and wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said thread stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt;
a T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
optionally a threaded bolt or screw; and optionally securing means; and wherein upon said use of said fastener, said bracket is attached to said T or L shaped element via said threaded bolt or screw through said hole in said second arm of said bracket; said first arm of said bracket extends over said lid, and wherein said thread stem of said T or L shaped element is inserted in a hole in the side of said body of said container and secured using one or more securing means.
4. The kit of claim 3, wherein the securing means comprises a nut or a nut and washer.
5. The kit of claim 4, further comprising a cover of the nut.
6. A method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides, comprising:
(a) obtaining a fastener comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt or screw; said bracket reversibly connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw; and said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second fastener to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) if necessary, loosening the thread bolt or screw on each fastener to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
(a) obtaining a fastener comprising:
a bracket having a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of a threaded bolt or screw; said bracket reversibly connected to a T or L shaped element via a threaded bolt or screw; and said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second fastener to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) if necessary, loosening the thread bolt or screw on each fastener to allow for the bracket to be rotated out of the way of the container opening;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
7. A method of securing a removable lid to a container having straight sides, comprising:
(a) obtaining a T or L shaped element;
said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second T or L shaped element to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) attaching a bracket to each of said T or L shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw;
wherein each of said brackets comprises a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, and wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of said threaded bolt or screw;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
(a) obtaining a T or L shaped element;
said T or L shaped element comprising an arm having a threaded channel sized to allow for insertion of said threaded bolt or screw and a threaded stem;
(b) inserting said threaded stem of said T or L shaped element through a hole in one side of the container such that the end of the threaded stem distal to the arm is inside the container, wherein said hole is positioned near the lid edge;
(c) securing a fastening means to the end of the threaded stem inside the container thereby securing a first fastener to a first side of the container, and optionally covering the fastening means with a cap;
(d) repeating steps (a) to (c) to secure a second T or L shaped element to a second side of the container, wherein said second side is across from the first side;
(e) attaching a bracket to each of said T or L shaped elements with a threaded bolt or screw;
wherein each of said brackets comprises a first arm, a stem and a second arm in a Z or S shaped configuration, and wherein said second arm comprises a hole sized to allow insertion of said threaded bolt or screw;
(f) if necessary, rotating the bracket on each fastener out of the way of the container opening;
(g) positioning the lid over the opening; and (h) positioning the first arm of the bracket of each fastener in place over the lid and tightening the threaded bolt or screw in each fastener to secure each fastener in place.
8. The method of claim 6 or 7, optionally, one or more washer(s) and/or one or more nut(s) are used when attaching the bracket to the T or L shaped element.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201762554639P | 2017-09-06 | 2017-09-06 | |
| US62/554,639 | 2017-09-06 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA3016476A1 true CA3016476A1 (en) | 2019-03-06 |
Family
ID=65632982
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3016476A Abandoned CA3016476A1 (en) | 2017-09-06 | 2018-09-05 | Replacement fastener for a junction box lid |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA3016476A1 (en) |
-
2018
- 2018-09-05 CA CA3016476A patent/CA3016476A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20230307 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20230307 |