US20070039143A1 - Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge - Google Patents
Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070039143A1 US20070039143A1 US11/470,207 US47020706A US2007039143A1 US 20070039143 A1 US20070039143 A1 US 20070039143A1 US 47020706 A US47020706 A US 47020706A US 2007039143 A1 US2007039143 A1 US 2007039143A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cover
- base
- strap hinge
- hinge
- latch device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B21/00—Tying-up; Shifting, towing, or pushing equipment; Anchoring
- B63B21/04—Fastening or guiding equipment for chains, ropes, hawsers, or the like
- B63B21/08—Clamping devices
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/39—Cord and rope holders
- Y10T24/3916—One-piece
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/39—Cord and rope holders
- Y10T24/3936—Pivoted part
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
- Y10T24/45005—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock] with third detached member completing interlock [e.g., hook type]
- Y10T24/45141—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock] with third detached member completing interlock [e.g., hook type] for chain, rope, cable, etc.
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a latch device that may be used in a variety of areas, for example, tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- Latch devices are used in a variety of areas to clamp or otherwise secure various articles. Existing devices can be rather complex, difficult to use, and often wear out prematurely. Because of these difficulties, there is a need for a simple, easy to use, durable latch device which can be used to secure a wide range of articles such as tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- the present invention is directed to a latch device that may be used in a variety of areas, including tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- the latch device includes a base that is suitable for attachment to a substrate, an elongate strap hinge, a cover that is attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge, a hinge guide structure on the base or a camming structure on an underside of the cover having a curved surface around which the strap bends when selectively moved to the closed position, and a locking mechanism to lock the cover in the closed position.
- the cover moves about the strap hinge between open and closed positions relative to the base.
- the camming structure if present, helps to bias the cover toward the open position when not locked in the closed position.
- the article to be held by the latch device is placed between the base and cover (i.e., in a slot formed within the base and/or cover) and then the cover is subsequently closed and locked to the base.
- the slot is advantageously spaced apart from the strap hinge so that the object held in the slot does not contact the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position. This helps preserve the strength and integrity of the strap hinge against cutting or breaking forces that may result from the object held by the latch device.
- the strap hinge is especially resistant to breakage.
- the curved surface prevents kinking and concentration of the stresses and forces associated with the operation of the hinge that might otherwise occur. Because the elongate strap hinge bends around the curved surface of the hinge guide structure and/or camming structure, the stresses and forces are distributed along a significant portion of the length of the strap hinge.
- the camming structure fits within and substantially fills a void space between the base and the elongate strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position.
- the latch device may be formed integrally as a single piece, for example, by injection molding of a thermoplastic material.
- the elongate strap hinge has a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the thickness of the cover and base where the cover and base are attached to the elongate strap hinge.
- the locking mechanism may be any mechanism which holds the cover against the base in a closed position.
- Exemplary locking mechanisms may include a cotter pin inserted through a hole formed through the cover and the base, a bolt and nut for locking the cover to the base, a threaded auger screw that is threaded through the cover and base, locking them together, or a locking pin that inserts through a slot in the cover and base, or mechanical interaction or interlocking between the cover and base themselves.
- FIGS. 1A-1C are perspective views of an exemplary latch device that is being used for securing a line to a boat;
- FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an alternative latch device according to the invention
- FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate operation of a latch device according to the invention that includes mechanically interlocking structures provided by the base and cover;
- FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a threaded bolt that fits in a hole through the cover and base;
- FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a pin that fits within corresponding holes in the cover and base;
- FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a threaded auger screw that passes through a hole in the cover and threadably mates with a threaded hole in the base;
- FIG. 7 illustrates a latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a locking pin that includes a locking tongue that fits in a recess or groove in the cover;
- FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a rotatable latch on the base that fits into an eyelet on the cover.
- the latch device includes a base suitable for attachment to a substrate, an elongate strap hinge, a cover attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge, a slot in the cover and/or base for holding a substrate therein, a hinge guide structure, and a locking mechanism.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a latch device 100 having a base 102 to which a cover 104 is hingedly attached.
- the latch device 100 further includes an elongate strap hinge 106 that is attached at one end to the base 102 and at an opposite end to the cover 104 .
- the cover 104 is hingedly attached to the base 102 and is able to be selectively moved (e.g., rotated) between an open position and a closed position relative to the base 102 .
- the latch device also includes a camming hinge guide structure 108 , and a locking mechanism.
- the latch device can be made (e.g., by injection molding) from a single type of material, e.g., a thermoplastic material.
- the strap hinge 106 of the latch device 100 is elongated, it is able to bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length rather than at a single point or line. This results in a hinge that is more resilient and durable over time because it is not overly bent or stressed at any particular point or line. Moreover, because the elongate strap hinge 106 can bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length, it can be of a thicker, stronger construction compared to a hinge that is required to bend at a single point or line. This results in a hinge that is significantly stronger and more resistant to breakage than it might otherwise be.
- the elongate strap hinge 106 will have a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the cross-sectional thicknesses of the adjoining cover 104 and base 102 . Nevertheless, it is within the scope of the invention for the elongate strap hinge 106 to have a material cross section that is as thick or thicker than the adjoining cover 104 and/or base 102 .
- the elongate strap hinge 106 may be constructed so that the cover 104 remains in an open position relative to the base 102 when the strap hinge 106 is in a relaxed condition.
- the ability of the cover 104 to remain in the open position without having to apply force to the cover 104 helps facilitate placement of an article (e.g., a rope 110 ) to be clamped between the cover 104 and the base 102 .
- the latch device 100 includes a camming structure 108 that includes a curved surface that interacts with the elongate strap hinge 106 to assist in causing the hinge 106 to bend gradually along a significant portion of its entire length as the cover 104 is selectively moved between open and closed positions relative to the base 102 .
- the camming structure and curved surface may either comprise an integral part of the cover 104 or base 102 , or alternatively, a separate piece attached to the cover 104 or base 102 .
- the camming structure 108 is integrally attached to the cover 104 .
- camming structure 108 is illustrated as having a camming surface 112 and a curved hinge-guiding surface 114 .
- the hinge-guiding surface 114 is an example of a curved surface that interacts with the elongate strap hinge 106 to assist in gradually bending the strap hinge 106 along a significant portion of its entire length as the cover 104 is moved relative to the base 102 .
- the hinge-guiding surface 114 is advantageously curved so as to interact with the elongate strap hinge 106 by distributing forces along a significant portion of its entire length as the cover 104 is moved.
- the hinge-guiding surface 114 may help maintain the cover 104 (in combination with an exemplary locking mechanism discussed more fully below) in the locked position by exerting outward pressure against the elongate strap hinge 106 . This, in turn, effectively shortens the length of the cover 104 , thereby causing the exemplary locking mechanism to hold the cover 104 more tightly (e.g., so as to remove play).
- the camming surface 112 is curved or angled in such a way so that it interacts with the base 102 in order to bias the cover 104 toward the open position when the cover 104 is in an unlocked configuration relative to the base 102 . This improves access to the inside clamping surfaces of the base 102 and cover 104 , facilitating insertion or removal of an article to be held.
- camming structure 108 is integrally attached to the inner surface of the cover 104 in a manner so as to extend toward the base 102 . Further, and as is shown in particular in FIG. 1B , the camming structure 108 is received within a recess 116 between the base 102 and the elongate strap hinge 106 when the cover 104 is in the closed position. This results in a more compact latch device 100 .
- the latch devices according to the invention include a locking mechanism for maintaining the cover 104 in a closed position once the cover has been closed.
- a locking mechanism for maintaining the cover 104 in a closed position once the cover has been closed.
- FIGS. 1B and 1C the illustrated embodiment shows an exemplary locking mechanism in which a cotter pin 118 is inserted through a hole 120 formed through the cover 104 and base 102 . It will be appreciated that any locking mechanism known in the art may be used to selectively lock and unlock the cover 104 relative to the base 102 .
- the latch device as shown further includes a bearing protrusion 122 extending within a slot 123 in the cover and toward a corresponding slot 124 in the base.
- Bearing protrusion 122 may be provided on the inside and middle of the cover 104 that extends toward the slot 124 when the cover 104 is in the closed position.
- the bearing protrusion 122 assists in fixing an article (e.g., a rope, cable, strap, ring, bar, rod, pin, and the like) to be clamped within the slots 123 and 124 when the cover is in the closed state ( FIG. 1B ).
- slots 123 and 124 are advantageously in mating alignment when the cover 104 is in the closed position relative to base 102 , although the slots could be misaligned if desired.
- FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an alternative embodiment of a latch device 200 according to the invention that includes a simplified hinge guide structure disposed on the base.
- the latch device 200 depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B includes a base 202 and a cover 204 attached to the base 202 by means of an elongate strap hinge 206 .
- the base 202 further includes a curved end surface 208 that acts as a hinge guide in order to cause the elongate strap hinge 206 to bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length.
- the curved end surface 208 of the base 202 act in similar manner to the curved hinge-guiding surface 114 of the camming structure 108 of the latch device 100 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B .
- the elongate strap hinge 206 at least partially abuts the curved end surface 208 .
- the abutment between the elongate strap hinge 206 and the curved end surface 208 causes the elongate strap hinge 206 to bend gradually around the curved end surface 208 so as to better distribute the bending forces and bending angles along substantially the entire length of the elongate strap hinge 206 .
- FIG. 3A is a side view that shows another embodiment of a latch device 300 with the cover 304 in an open position relative to the base 302 .
- the cover 304 can be manually opened by rotating it about the elongate strap hinge 306 so that the camming structure 308 just barely abuts an upper surface of the base 302 . It will be appreciated, however, that, depending on the nature of the elongate strap hinge 306 , it is possible for the cover 304 to be biased either toward or away from the base 302 when the cover 304 is in a fully open position relative to the base 302 . In the embodiment shown in FIG.
- the elongate strap hinge 306 gently biases the cover 304 toward the base 302 in order for the camming structure 308 to lightly contact an upper surface of the base 302 while the cover 304 is in an open position relative to the base 302 .
- the camming surface 312 of the camming structure 308 makes abutting contact with, and slides against, an upper surface of the base 302 , thereby causing the camming structure 308 to be biased in a spring-like fashion towards the elongate strap hinge 306 .
- the camming structure 308 can act as a spring that exerts an opposing biasing force that, in combination with the camming action of camming surface 312 , biases or urges the cover 304 toward the open position relative to the base 302 .
- the curved hinge-guiding surface 314 of the camming structure 308 is in contact with the inside surface of the elongate strap hinge 306 .
- This contact between curved surface 314 and the elongate strap hinge 306 distributes forces associated with closing the cover 304 (i.e., while bending the hinge) gradually along the entire contact length between the curved surface 314 and the elongate strap hinge 306 as the cover 304 is progressively closed.
- This characteristic allows the elongate strap hinge 306 to bend without kinking, thereby decreasing the likelihood of fatigue and unwanted breakage. Because the elongate strap hinge 306 bends gradually along a significant portion of its entire length, rather than abruptly at a distinct localized bending angle, the film hinge 306 can be significantly thicker than film hinges that bend at a discrete localized bending angle. The combination of these characteristics results in a much stronger and more durable hinge that resists breakage when subjected to shearing or bending forces.
- the cover 304 is held in a closed position by means of mechanical interaction between a locking protrusion 324 that extends from an end of the cover 304 opposite the strap hinge 306 and a locking recess 326 within the base 302 .
- the locking protrusion 324 bends outwardly as the cover 304 is pushed beyond nose 328 on the base 302 to unlock the cover 304 , the locking protrusion 324 is withdrawn from the locking recess 326 and flexed up and over nose 328 .
- any combination of protrusions and recesses located on or attached to the cover 304 and/or base 302 may be utilized as the locking mechanism, either alone or in combination with any other locking devices disclosed herein or known in the art.
- FIGS. 4-8 Alternative exemplary locking mechanisms are illustrated in FIGS. 4-8 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates the use of a bolt 418 inserted through a hole 420 in the cover 404 and base 402 .
- a nut 419 is fastened to the bolt 418 so as to secure the bolt 418 within the hole 420 .
- the cover 404 can be selectively locked and unlocked relative to the base 402 by inserting and removing bolt 418 into and out of hole 420 .
- FIG. 5 illustrates a pin 518 that is selectively inserted or withdrawn from a corresponding hole 520 in the front of cover 504 and base 502 .
- the cover 504 can be selectively locked and unlocked relative to the base 502 by inserting and removing pin 518 into and out of hole 520 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates use of a threaded auger screw 618 which is passed through a hole 620 in the front of cover 604 and screwed into a threaded hole 621 in the front of base 602 so as to selectively secure and release the cover 604 to and from the base 602 .
- FIG. 7 illustrates a locking pin 718 which is inserted through a hole 720 and turned in order for a locking tongue 723 to fit within a recess or groove 725 in the cover 704 so as to selectively secure and release the cover 704 to and from the base 702 .
- FIG. 8 illustrates a locking mechanism that includes a latch 81 8 rotatably connected to the base 802 that can be selectively inserted into and withdrawn from an eyelet 820 attached to or formed on cover 804 .
- the foregoing locking mechanisms are exemplary, and any locking mechanism capable of securing the cover to the base may be used.
- a cover attached to a base by means of an elongate strap hinge and a curved surface that helps the strap hinge bend along a substantial portion of its length and/or a camming surface that biases the cover toward an open position can be generalized to be usable together with other known mechanisms or devices.
- the cover rather than being attached to a base, the cover might be attached to, for example, a box or other container by means of an elongate strap hinge.
- a curved, hinge guide structure and/or an interactive camming surface that biases the cover toward the open position may also be included in order for the benefits disclosed herein to be extended to lids or covers that can be selectively moved between open and closed positions relative to a box, container, or other substrate.
Abstract
A latch device comprises a base suitable for attachment to a substrate, a cover, an elongate strap hinge that connects the base and cover, a hinge guide structure and/or a camming structure, and a locking mechanism. The cover is selectively movable about the strap hinge relative to the base between an open position and a closed position. The hinge guide structure includes a curved surface proximal to the elongate strap hinge that assists in distributing forces throughout a significant portion of the entire length of the strap hinge as the cover is moved relative to the base. A camming structure may be included that has a camming surface that biases the cover toward the open position. A slot may be provided in the base and/or cover for holding a substrate therein when the cover is in the closed position. The latch device is useful in a variety of areas, including: tie downs for sail boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
Description
- This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 10/836,058, filed Apr. 30, 2004, and entitled “Hinged Latch Device With Elongate Strap Hinge”, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety.
- 1. The Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a latch device that may be used in a variety of areas, for example, tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- 2. The Relevant Technology
- Latch devices are used in a variety of areas to clamp or otherwise secure various articles. Existing devices can be rather complex, difficult to use, and often wear out prematurely. Because of these difficulties, there is a need for a simple, easy to use, durable latch device which can be used to secure a wide range of articles such as tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- It would be an improvement in the art to provide a latch device that is easy to open and close without use of any special tools or excessive force, that can be manufactured at low cost, and that exhibits high durability.
- The present invention is directed to a latch device that may be used in a variety of areas, including tie downs for boats, campers, tarps, suit cases, back packs, and other sporting goods.
- The latch device includes a base that is suitable for attachment to a substrate, an elongate strap hinge, a cover that is attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge, a hinge guide structure on the base or a camming structure on an underside of the cover having a curved surface around which the strap bends when selectively moved to the closed position, and a locking mechanism to lock the cover in the closed position. The cover moves about the strap hinge between open and closed positions relative to the base. The camming structure, if present, helps to bias the cover toward the open position when not locked in the closed position.
- The article to be held by the latch device is placed between the base and cover (i.e., in a slot formed within the base and/or cover) and then the cover is subsequently closed and locked to the base. The slot is advantageously spaced apart from the strap hinge so that the object held in the slot does not contact the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position. This helps preserve the strength and integrity of the strap hinge against cutting or breaking forces that may result from the object held by the latch device.
- Because the elongate strap hinge bends around the curved surface of the hinge guide structure and/or camming structure, the strap hinge is especially resistant to breakage. The curved surface prevents kinking and concentration of the stresses and forces associated with the operation of the hinge that might otherwise occur. Because the elongate strap hinge bends around the curved surface of the hinge guide structure and/or camming structure, the stresses and forces are distributed along a significant portion of the length of the strap hinge. According to one embodiment, the camming structure fits within and substantially fills a void space between the base and the elongate strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position.
- The latch device may be formed integrally as a single piece, for example, by injection molding of a thermoplastic material.
- According to one embodiment, the elongate strap hinge has a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the thickness of the cover and base where the cover and base are attached to the elongate strap hinge.
- The locking mechanism may be any mechanism which holds the cover against the base in a closed position. Exemplary locking mechanisms may include a cotter pin inserted through a hole formed through the cover and the base, a bolt and nut for locking the cover to the base, a threaded auger screw that is threaded through the cover and base, locking them together, or a locking pin that inserts through a slot in the cover and base, or mechanical interaction or interlocking between the cover and base themselves. These exemplary locking mechanisms are illustrative, and many others could alternatively be used.
- These and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
- To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by references to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIGS. 1A-1C are perspective views of an exemplary latch device that is being used for securing a line to a boat; -
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an alternative latch device according to the invention; -
FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate operation of a latch device according to the invention that includes mechanically interlocking structures provided by the base and cover; -
FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a threaded bolt that fits in a hole through the cover and base; -
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a pin that fits within corresponding holes in the cover and base; -
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a threaded auger screw that passes through a hole in the cover and threadably mates with a threaded hole in the base; -
FIG. 7 illustrates a latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a locking pin that includes a locking tongue that fits in a recess or groove in the cover; and -
FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary latch device that includes a locking mechanism comprising a rotatable latch on the base that fits into an eyelet on the cover. - A detailed description of the latch device of the invention will now be provided with specific reference to the drawings illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention. It will be appreciated that like structures will be provided with like reference designations. The latch device includes a base suitable for attachment to a substrate, an elongate strap hinge, a cover attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge, a slot in the cover and/or base for holding a substrate therein, a hinge guide structure, and a locking mechanism.
-
FIGS. 1A and 1B depict alatch device 100 having abase 102 to which acover 104 is hingedly attached. Thelatch device 100 further includes anelongate strap hinge 106 that is attached at one end to thebase 102 and at an opposite end to thecover 104. In this way, thecover 104 is hingedly attached to thebase 102 and is able to be selectively moved (e.g., rotated) between an open position and a closed position relative to thebase 102. The latch device also includes a camminghinge guide structure 108, and a locking mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the latch device can be made (e.g., by injection molding) from a single type of material, e.g., a thermoplastic material. - Because the
strap hinge 106 of thelatch device 100 is elongated, it is able to bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length rather than at a single point or line. This results in a hinge that is more resilient and durable over time because it is not overly bent or stressed at any particular point or line. Moreover, because theelongate strap hinge 106 can bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length, it can be of a thicker, stronger construction compared to a hinge that is required to bend at a single point or line. This results in a hinge that is significantly stronger and more resistant to breakage than it might otherwise be. - In some embodiments, the
elongate strap hinge 106 will have a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the cross-sectional thicknesses of theadjoining cover 104 andbase 102. Nevertheless, it is within the scope of the invention for theelongate strap hinge 106 to have a material cross section that is as thick or thicker than theadjoining cover 104 and/orbase 102. - According to one aspect of the invention, the
elongate strap hinge 106 may be constructed so that thecover 104 remains in an open position relative to thebase 102 when thestrap hinge 106 is in a relaxed condition. The ability of thecover 104 to remain in the open position without having to apply force to thecover 104 helps facilitate placement of an article (e.g., a rope 110) to be clamped between thecover 104 and thebase 102. - The
latch device 100 includes acamming structure 108 that includes a curved surface that interacts with theelongate strap hinge 106 to assist in causing thehinge 106 to bend gradually along a significant portion of its entire length as thecover 104 is selectively moved between open and closed positions relative to thebase 102. The camming structure and curved surface may either comprise an integral part of thecover 104 orbase 102, or alternatively, a separate piece attached to thecover 104 orbase 102. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B , thecamming structure 108 is integrally attached to thecover 104. - In
FIG. 1A ,camming structure 108 is illustrated as having acamming surface 112 and a curved hinge-guidingsurface 114. The hinge-guidingsurface 114 is an example of a curved surface that interacts with theelongate strap hinge 106 to assist in gradually bending thestrap hinge 106 along a significant portion of its entire length as thecover 104 is moved relative to thebase 102. The hinge-guidingsurface 114 is advantageously curved so as to interact with theelongate strap hinge 106 by distributing forces along a significant portion of its entire length as thecover 104 is moved. Distributing forces along a significant portion of the length of theelongate strap hinge 106, rather than allowing the forces to concentrate at a single location, results in a hinged latch device that is more resistant to breakage of the hinge compared to devices in which the hinge is bent abruptly at a specific point or line. In one embodiment, the hinge-guidingsurface 114 may help maintain the cover 104 (in combination with an exemplary locking mechanism discussed more fully below) in the locked position by exerting outward pressure against theelongate strap hinge 106. This, in turn, effectively shortens the length of thecover 104, thereby causing the exemplary locking mechanism to hold thecover 104 more tightly (e.g., so as to remove play). - The
camming surface 112 is curved or angled in such a way so that it interacts with the base 102 in order to bias thecover 104 toward the open position when thecover 104 is in an unlocked configuration relative to thebase 102. This improves access to the inside clamping surfaces of thebase 102 and cover 104, facilitating insertion or removal of an article to be held. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 1A ,camming structure 108 is integrally attached to the inner surface of thecover 104 in a manner so as to extend toward thebase 102. Further, and as is shown in particular inFIG. 1B , thecamming structure 108 is received within arecess 116 between the base 102 and theelongate strap hinge 106 when thecover 104 is in the closed position. This results in a morecompact latch device 100. - The latch devices according to the invention include a locking mechanism for maintaining the
cover 104 in a closed position once the cover has been closed. As shown inFIGS. 1B and 1C the illustrated embodiment shows an exemplary locking mechanism in which acotter pin 118 is inserted through ahole 120 formed through thecover 104 andbase 102. It will be appreciated that any locking mechanism known in the art may be used to selectively lock and unlock thecover 104 relative to thebase 102. - The latch device as shown further includes a bearing
protrusion 122 extending within aslot 123 in the cover and toward acorresponding slot 124 in the base.Bearing protrusion 122 may be provided on the inside and middle of thecover 104 that extends toward theslot 124 when thecover 104 is in the closed position. The bearingprotrusion 122 assists in fixing an article (e.g., a rope, cable, strap, ring, bar, rod, pin, and the like) to be clamped within theslots FIG. 1B ). As shown,slots cover 104 is in the closed position relative tobase 102, although the slots could be misaligned if desired. -
FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an alternative embodiment of alatch device 200 according to the invention that includes a simplified hinge guide structure disposed on the base. Thelatch device 200 depicted inFIGS. 2A and 2B includes abase 202 and acover 204 attached to thebase 202 by means of anelongate strap hinge 206. The base 202 further includes acurved end surface 208 that acts as a hinge guide in order to cause theelongate strap hinge 206 to bend gradually over a significant portion of its entire length. In this way, thecurved end surface 208 of the base 202 act in similar manner to the curved hinge-guidingsurface 114 of thecamming structure 108 of thelatch device 100 depicted inFIGS. 1A-1B . Thus, as thecover 204 is moved from an open position (FIG. 2A ) to a closed position (FIG. 2B ), theelongate strap hinge 206 at least partially abuts thecurved end surface 208. The abutment between theelongate strap hinge 206 and thecurved end surface 208 causes theelongate strap hinge 206 to bend gradually around thecurved end surface 208 so as to better distribute the bending forces and bending angles along substantially the entire length of theelongate strap hinge 206. -
FIG. 3A is a side view that shows another embodiment of alatch device 300 with thecover 304 in an open position relative to thebase 302. Thecover 304 can be manually opened by rotating it about theelongate strap hinge 306 so that thecamming structure 308 just barely abuts an upper surface of thebase 302. It will be appreciated, however, that, depending on the nature of theelongate strap hinge 306, it is possible for thecover 304 to be biased either toward or away from the base 302 when thecover 304 is in a fully open position relative to thebase 302. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 3A , however, theelongate strap hinge 306 gently biases thecover 304 toward the base 302 in order for thecamming structure 308 to lightly contact an upper surface of the base 302 while thecover 304 is in an open position relative to thebase 302. - As seen in
FIG. 3B , when thecover 304 is pushed down toward thebase 302, thecamming surface 312 of thecamming structure 308 makes abutting contact with, and slides against, an upper surface of thebase 302, thereby causing thecamming structure 308 to be biased in a spring-like fashion towards theelongate strap hinge 306. As a result, thecamming structure 308 can act as a spring that exerts an opposing biasing force that, in combination with the camming action ofcamming surface 312, biases or urges thecover 304 toward the open position relative to thebase 302. Thus, if thelatch device 300 is in the conformation depicted inFIG. 3B and thecover 304 is released, it may spontaneously spring back to a conformation like the one illustrated inFIG. 3A . It should be understood, however, that the exact resting conformation of thecover 304 is dependent upon the size, shape and relative positions of thecamming structure 308 and the upper surface of the base 302 with which it comes into contact. - As the
cover 304 is pushed down further toward the base 302 as seen inFIG. 3C , thecamming surface 312 of thecamming structure 308 continues to make contact with thebase 302, thus pushing thecamming structure 308 further toward theelongate strap hinge 306. Thus, if thelatch device 300 is in the conformation depicted inFIG. 3C , and thecover 304 is released, it will spontaneously spring back to a conformation like the one illustrated inFIG. 3A (subject to the actual size, shape and angles of thecamming structure 308 and base 302). This tendency of thecover 304 to remain in an open position absent external force is advantageous to the user because it facilitates the insertion of an article to be held between the cover and the base. - Additionally, when the
latch device 300 is in the conformation illustrated inFIG. 3C , the curved hinge-guidingsurface 314 of thecamming structure 308 is in contact with the inside surface of theelongate strap hinge 306. This contact betweencurved surface 314 and theelongate strap hinge 306 distributes forces associated with closing the cover 304 (i.e., while bending the hinge) gradually along the entire contact length between thecurved surface 314 and theelongate strap hinge 306 as thecover 304 is progressively closed. This results in theelongate strap hinge 306 bending along its entire length, or at least a significant portion of its entire length, as thecover 304 is closed, rather than bending at a single point or line. This characteristic allows theelongate strap hinge 306 to bend without kinking, thereby decreasing the likelihood of fatigue and unwanted breakage. Because theelongate strap hinge 306 bends gradually along a significant portion of its entire length, rather than abruptly at a distinct localized bending angle, thefilm hinge 306 can be significantly thicker than film hinges that bend at a discrete localized bending angle. The combination of these characteristics results in a much stronger and more durable hinge that resists breakage when subjected to shearing or bending forces. - The
cover 304 is held in a closed position by means of mechanical interaction between a lockingprotrusion 324 that extends from an end of thecover 304 opposite thestrap hinge 306 and alocking recess 326 within thebase 302. The lockingprotrusion 324 bends outwardly as thecover 304 is pushed beyondnose 328 on the base 302 to unlock thecover 304, the lockingprotrusion 324 is withdrawn from the lockingrecess 326 and flexed up and overnose 328. It should be understood that any combination of protrusions and recesses located on or attached to thecover 304 and/orbase 302 may be utilized as the locking mechanism, either alone or in combination with any other locking devices disclosed herein or known in the art. - Alternative exemplary locking mechanisms are illustrated in
FIGS. 4-8 .FIG. 4 illustrates the use of abolt 418 inserted through ahole 420 in thecover 404 andbase 402. Anut 419 is fastened to thebolt 418 so as to secure thebolt 418 within thehole 420. Thecover 404 can be selectively locked and unlocked relative to thebase 402 by inserting and removingbolt 418 into and out ofhole 420. -
FIG. 5 illustrates apin 518 that is selectively inserted or withdrawn from acorresponding hole 520 in the front ofcover 504 andbase 502. Thecover 504 can be selectively locked and unlocked relative to thebase 502 by inserting and removingpin 518 into and out ofhole 520. -
FIG. 6 illustrates use of a threadedauger screw 618 which is passed through ahole 620 in the front ofcover 604 and screwed into a threadedhole 621 in the front ofbase 602 so as to selectively secure and release thecover 604 to and from thebase 602. -
FIG. 7 illustrates alocking pin 718 which is inserted through ahole 720 and turned in order for a lockingtongue 723 to fit within a recess or groove 725 in thecover 704 so as to selectively secure and release thecover 704 to and from thebase 702. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a locking mechanism that includes a latch 81 8 rotatably connected to the base 802 that can be selectively inserted into and withdrawn from aneyelet 820 attached to or formed oncover 804. - The foregoing locking mechanisms are exemplary, and any locking mechanism capable of securing the cover to the base may be used.
- It should be understood that the general concept of a cover attached to a base by means of an elongate strap hinge and a curved surface that helps the strap hinge bend along a substantial portion of its length and/or a camming surface that biases the cover toward an open position can be generalized to be usable together with other known mechanisms or devices. For example, rather than being attached to a base, the cover might be attached to, for example, a box or other container by means of an elongate strap hinge. A curved, hinge guide structure and/or an interactive camming surface that biases the cover toward the open position may also be included in order for the benefits disclosed herein to be extended to lids or covers that can be selectively moved between open and closed positions relative to a box, container, or other substrate.
- The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
Claims (20)
1. A latch device comprising:
a base suitable for attachment to a substrate;
an elongate strap hinge having a proximal end affixed to the base and a distal end affixed to a cover that is hingedly attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge so that the cover is movable about the strap hinge between an open position and a closed position relative to the base by bending the strap hinge;
a slot in at least one of the base or cover that is spaced apart from the strap hinge so that an object disposed in the slot does not contact the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position relative to the base;
a hinge guide structure that forms an integral part of the base and/or cover and includes a curved surface around which at least a portion of the elongate strap hinge bends when the cover is selectively closed relative to the base so that the elongate strap hinge bends over a significant portion of its entire length, at least a majority of the strap hinge contacting the hinge guide structure when the cover is in the closed position; and
a locking mechanism that selectively locks and unlocks the cover relative to the base.
2. A latch device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the hinge guide structure interacts with the elongate strap hinge so as to distribute bending forces along a significant portion of the entire length of the elongate strap hinge when the cover is selectively moved relative to the base.
3. A latch device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the base, cover, and elongate strap hinge are integrally formed together as a single piece.
4. A latch device as recited in claim 3 , wherein the latch device is formed by injection molding a thermoplastic material so that the base, cover, elongate strap hinge, and hinge guide structure are fused together as a single continuous piece of material.
5. A latch device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the elongate strap hinge has a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the cross-sectional thicknesses of the cover and base where the cover and base are attached to the elongate strap hinge.
6. A latch device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one of a cotter pin, a bolt and nut, a threaded auger screw, a locking pin, or a latch insertable in an eyelet.
7. A latch device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one of a protrusion in the cover that fits in a corresponding recess of the base or a protrusion in the base that fits in a corresponding recess in the cover.
8. A latch device comprising:
a base suitable for attachment to a substrate;
an elongate strap hinge having a proximal end affixed to the base and a distal end affixed to a cover that is hingedly attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge so that the cover is movable about the strap hinge between an open position and a closed position relative to the base by bending the strap hinge;
a slot in the cover that is spaced apart and separated from the strap hinge by a portion of the base so that an object disposed in the slot during use is prevented from contacting the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position; and
a camming structure extending from an undersurface of the cover and including a camming surface that interacts with the base so as to bias the cover toward the open position in order for the slot to remain substantially unoccluded by the cover absent application of a force sufficient to move the cover to the closed position,
wherein the camming structure further includes a curved surface opposite the camming surface that acts as a hinge guide around which at least a portion of the elongate strap hinge contacts and bends when the cover is selectively moved relative to the base so that the elongate strap hinge bends over a significant portion of its entire length.
9. A latch device as recited in claim 8 , wherein the camming structure fits within and substantially fills a void space that would otherwise exist between the base and the elongate strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position.
10. A latch device as recited in claim 8 , wherein the curved hinge guide surface of the camming structure interacts with the elongate strap hinge so as to distribute bending forces along a significant portion of the entire length of the elongate strap hinge when the cover is selectively moved relative to the base.
11. A latch device as recited in claim 8 , wherein the base, cover, and elongate strap hinge are integrally formed together as a single piece.
12. A latch device as recited in claim 11 , wherein the latch device is formed by injection molding a thermoplastic material so that the base, cover, elongate strap hinge, and camming structure are fused together as a single continuous piece of material.
13. A latch device as recited in claim 8 , further including a slot in the base.
14. A latch device as recited in claim 8 , wherein the elongate strap hinge has a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the cross-sectional thicknesses of the cover and base where the cover and base are attached to the elongate strap hinge.
15. A latch device comprising:
a base suitable for attachment to a substrate;
a cover that is movable between open and closed positions relative to the base;
an elongate strap hinge having a proximal end affixed to the base and a distal end affixed to the cover so that the cover is hingedly attached to the base by the elongate strap hinge and moves by flexing the strap hinge;
a slot in the base that is spaced apart from the strap hinge so that an object disposed in the slot is prevented from contacting the strap hinge when the cover is in the closed position;
a hinge guide structure that forms an integral part of the base and includes a curved surface around which at least a portion of the elongate strap hinge bends when the cover is selectively closed relative to the base so that the elongate strap hinge bends over a significant portion of its entire length, at least a majority of the strap hinge contacting the hinge guide structure when the cover is in the closed position; and
a locking mechanism that selectively locks and unlocks the cover relative to the base.
16. A latch device as recited in claim 15 , wherein the hinge guide structure interacts with the elongate strap hinge so as to distribute bending forces along a significant portion of the entire length of the elongate strap hinge when the cover is selectively moved relative to the base.
17. A latch device as recited in claim 15 , wherein the base, cover, and elongate strap hinge are integrally formed together as a single piece.
18. A latch device as recited in claim 17 , wherein the latch device is formed by injection molding a thermoplastic material so that the base, cover, elongate strap hinge, and hinge guide structure are fused together as a single continuous piece of material.
19. A latch device as recited in claim 15 , further comprising a slot in the cover.
20. A latch device as recited in claim 15 , wherein the elongate strap hinge has a cross-sectional thickness that is less than the cross-sectional thicknesses of the cover and base where the cover and base are attached to the elongate strap hinge.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/470,207 US20070039143A1 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2006-09-05 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/836,058 US7249397B2 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2004-04-30 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
US11/470,207 US20070039143A1 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2006-09-05 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/836,058 Continuation US7249397B2 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2004-04-30 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070039143A1 true US20070039143A1 (en) | 2007-02-22 |
Family
ID=34965998
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/836,058 Expired - Fee Related US7249397B2 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2004-04-30 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
US11/470,207 Abandoned US20070039143A1 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2006-09-05 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/836,058 Expired - Fee Related US7249397B2 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2004-04-30 | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7249397B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1732464A2 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2007535349A (en) |
CN (1) | CN1946350A (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA06012102A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2005104984A2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN106542049A (en) * | 2016-12-16 | 2017-03-29 | 江苏大津重工有限公司 | A kind of impacting type quickly casts anchor release device |
Families Citing this family (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7249397B2 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2007-07-31 | Norbert Abels | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
JP3155882U (en) * | 2006-06-09 | 2009-12-10 | ゲステンコ インターナショナル アーベー | Orthodontic appliance mounting jig |
US7665503B2 (en) * | 2007-09-12 | 2010-02-23 | Creative Minds Int'l Limited | Ladder drum for venetian blind |
US9021835B2 (en) | 2010-04-05 | 2015-05-05 | Babyak Holdings, LLC | Removable jewelry setting |
US8434327B2 (en) | 2010-04-05 | 2013-05-07 | Babyak Holdings, LLC | Removable jewelry setting |
WO2012021797A1 (en) | 2010-08-13 | 2012-02-16 | Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. | Methods and compositions for targeting sequences of interest to the chloroplast |
US9615897B2 (en) | 2010-09-10 | 2017-04-11 | Ormco Corporation | Self-ligating orthodontic bracket |
TWM420972U (en) * | 2011-09-15 | 2012-01-11 | Dongguan Techsoon Digital Technology Co Ltd | Supporting structure |
US8746742B2 (en) * | 2012-07-30 | 2014-06-10 | Leroy Heath | Seatbelt tension adjustment device |
GB2514893B (en) * | 2013-06-04 | 2017-12-06 | Nicoventures Holdings Ltd | Container |
CN107214534A (en) * | 2017-07-14 | 2017-09-29 | 江苏安全技术职业学院 | It is machined universal bracket |
CN113540663B (en) * | 2020-03-31 | 2022-11-11 | 比亚迪股份有限公司 | Battery module and vehicle |
TWM627183U (en) * | 2021-09-02 | 2022-05-21 | 周哲文 | Curtain pull cord connector |
Citations (34)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3323208A (en) * | 1965-11-08 | 1967-06-06 | Jr James S Hurley | Simultaneous clamping and cutting means |
US3530550A (en) * | 1968-10-21 | 1970-09-29 | Robert L White | Flexible clamp |
US3612475A (en) * | 1969-04-02 | 1971-10-12 | Amp Inc | Flexible tube closure |
US3698681A (en) * | 1970-12-15 | 1972-10-17 | Illinois Tool Works | On-off clamp for i. v. systems |
US3713622A (en) * | 1971-02-26 | 1973-01-30 | Amp Inc | Closure device for flexible tubing |
US3729045A (en) * | 1971-01-13 | 1973-04-24 | Adrian Inc | Molded screen frame |
US3912140A (en) * | 1973-11-30 | 1975-10-14 | Hoton M Franges | Carrying handle for packages or the like |
US4038726A (en) * | 1975-07-01 | 1977-08-02 | Kohshoh Limited | Plastic adjuster for a belt |
US4077085A (en) * | 1975-07-01 | 1978-03-07 | Nifco Inc. | Strain relief grommet |
US4193174A (en) * | 1978-04-11 | 1980-03-18 | Portex, Inc. | Lever and fulcrum clamping assembly |
US4227730A (en) * | 1979-05-29 | 1980-10-14 | Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. | Gripper member for retention of a plastic tube |
US4387489A (en) * | 1981-02-07 | 1983-06-14 | Prameta Prazisionsmetaal-und Kunstofferzeugnisse G. Baumann & Co. | Clasp for locking a ligature loop |
US4492573A (en) * | 1984-03-27 | 1985-01-08 | Augusta Developments Inc. | Orthodontic bracket |
US4534089A (en) * | 1983-04-08 | 1985-08-13 | Swan Thomas C | Fastening device for flexible sheets |
US4635823A (en) * | 1985-05-09 | 1987-01-13 | Gene Stull | Dispensing closure construction |
US4638804A (en) * | 1980-02-25 | 1987-01-27 | Ethicon, Inc. | Double-latched non-metallic, bio-compatible hemostatic clip |
US4669156A (en) * | 1984-11-12 | 1987-06-02 | Guido Juergen Dipl Ing | Pipe clip of resilient material |
US4712999A (en) * | 1986-09-10 | 1987-12-15 | Farel Rosenberg | Convertible, self-ligating, archwire positioning orthodontic bracket |
US4821789A (en) * | 1987-12-21 | 1989-04-18 | Graber Industries, Inc. | Venetian blind with improved ladder tilt drum |
US4834096A (en) * | 1987-10-26 | 1989-05-30 | Edward Weck Incorporated | Plastic ligating clips |
US4844519A (en) * | 1988-02-02 | 1989-07-04 | Dagon Alfred P | Door lock with locking pin |
US5109576A (en) * | 1991-04-24 | 1992-05-05 | Teekell Gordon E | Closure device |
US5653411A (en) * | 1994-03-09 | 1997-08-05 | Bundy International Limited | Clamp for clamping pipes |
US5685711A (en) * | 1995-12-06 | 1997-11-11 | Hanson; G. Herbert | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets |
US5829105A (en) * | 1995-06-22 | 1998-11-03 | Ykk Corporation | Coupler for elongate article |
US6071119A (en) * | 1998-12-22 | 2000-06-06 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Dual mode self-ligating orthodontic bracket |
US6112934A (en) * | 1997-06-18 | 2000-09-05 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Process for producing a unit from two plastic parts and unit formed thereby |
US20020110776A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets having a spring element interconnecting the base and ligation cover |
US20020110775A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets formed from multiple plastic materials |
US20030049582A1 (en) * | 2001-09-12 | 2003-03-13 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that provide spring action from ligation cover to arch wire for dynamic active ligation |
US20030189340A1 (en) * | 2002-04-09 | 2003-10-09 | Kitzis Roger S. | Anti-animal container lock |
US6932597B2 (en) * | 2001-09-12 | 2005-08-23 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets including a metal ligation cover hingedly connected to a bracket base |
US6960080B2 (en) * | 2003-03-04 | 2005-11-01 | Norbert Abels | Orthodontic brackets with elongate film hinge |
US7249397B2 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2007-07-31 | Norbert Abels | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE10026099A1 (en) | 2000-05-26 | 2001-11-29 | Alpla Werke | Closure for a container |
US6960081B2 (en) | 2003-03-04 | 2005-11-01 | Norbert Abels | Orthodontic brackets with elongate film hinge |
-
2004
- 2004-04-30 US US10/836,058 patent/US7249397B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2005
- 2005-04-20 JP JP2007509930A patent/JP2007535349A/en active Pending
- 2005-04-20 MX MXPA06012102A patent/MXPA06012102A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2005-04-20 CN CN200580012872.9A patent/CN1946350A/en active Pending
- 2005-04-20 WO PCT/EP2005/004249 patent/WO2005104984A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2005-04-20 EP EP05737107A patent/EP1732464A2/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2006
- 2006-09-05 US US11/470,207 patent/US20070039143A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (46)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3323208A (en) * | 1965-11-08 | 1967-06-06 | Jr James S Hurley | Simultaneous clamping and cutting means |
US3530550A (en) * | 1968-10-21 | 1970-09-29 | Robert L White | Flexible clamp |
US3612475A (en) * | 1969-04-02 | 1971-10-12 | Amp Inc | Flexible tube closure |
US3698681A (en) * | 1970-12-15 | 1972-10-17 | Illinois Tool Works | On-off clamp for i. v. systems |
US3729045A (en) * | 1971-01-13 | 1973-04-24 | Adrian Inc | Molded screen frame |
US3713622A (en) * | 1971-02-26 | 1973-01-30 | Amp Inc | Closure device for flexible tubing |
US3912140A (en) * | 1973-11-30 | 1975-10-14 | Hoton M Franges | Carrying handle for packages or the like |
US4038726A (en) * | 1975-07-01 | 1977-08-02 | Kohshoh Limited | Plastic adjuster for a belt |
US4077085A (en) * | 1975-07-01 | 1978-03-07 | Nifco Inc. | Strain relief grommet |
US4193174A (en) * | 1978-04-11 | 1980-03-18 | Portex, Inc. | Lever and fulcrum clamping assembly |
US4227730A (en) * | 1979-05-29 | 1980-10-14 | Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. | Gripper member for retention of a plastic tube |
US4638804A (en) * | 1980-02-25 | 1987-01-27 | Ethicon, Inc. | Double-latched non-metallic, bio-compatible hemostatic clip |
US4387489A (en) * | 1981-02-07 | 1983-06-14 | Prameta Prazisionsmetaal-und Kunstofferzeugnisse G. Baumann & Co. | Clasp for locking a ligature loop |
US4534089A (en) * | 1983-04-08 | 1985-08-13 | Swan Thomas C | Fastening device for flexible sheets |
US4492573A (en) * | 1984-03-27 | 1985-01-08 | Augusta Developments Inc. | Orthodontic bracket |
US4669156A (en) * | 1984-11-12 | 1987-06-02 | Guido Juergen Dipl Ing | Pipe clip of resilient material |
US4635823A (en) * | 1985-05-09 | 1987-01-13 | Gene Stull | Dispensing closure construction |
US4712999A (en) * | 1986-09-10 | 1987-12-15 | Farel Rosenberg | Convertible, self-ligating, archwire positioning orthodontic bracket |
US4834096A (en) * | 1987-10-26 | 1989-05-30 | Edward Weck Incorporated | Plastic ligating clips |
US4821789A (en) * | 1987-12-21 | 1989-04-18 | Graber Industries, Inc. | Venetian blind with improved ladder tilt drum |
US4844519A (en) * | 1988-02-02 | 1989-07-04 | Dagon Alfred P | Door lock with locking pin |
US5109576A (en) * | 1991-04-24 | 1992-05-05 | Teekell Gordon E | Closure device |
US5653411A (en) * | 1994-03-09 | 1997-08-05 | Bundy International Limited | Clamp for clamping pipes |
US5829105A (en) * | 1995-06-22 | 1998-11-03 | Ykk Corporation | Coupler for elongate article |
US5685711A (en) * | 1995-12-06 | 1997-11-11 | Hanson; G. Herbert | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets |
US6112934A (en) * | 1997-06-18 | 2000-09-05 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Process for producing a unit from two plastic parts and unit formed thereby |
US6071119A (en) * | 1998-12-22 | 2000-06-06 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Dual mode self-ligating orthodontic bracket |
US20020110774A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that have multiple initially open arch wire slots ligatable with a single cover |
US6616445B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-09-09 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets having a spring element interconnecting the base and ligation cover |
US20020110773A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that include a deformable ligation cover to facilitate locking and unlocking |
US20020110771A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets having a safety locking feature for ligation cover |
US20020110777A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets including a ligation cover biased toward an open or closed position |
US20020110778A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Orthodontic brackets that include an arch wire bearing spring extending from the ligation cover |
US20020110776A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets having a spring element interconnecting the base and ligation cover |
US20020110775A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets formed from multiple plastic materials |
US6733286B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2004-05-11 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that have multiple initially open arch wire slots ligatable with a single cover |
US20020110772A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2002-08-15 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that include a film hinge |
US6659766B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-09 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets having a safety locking feature for ligation cover |
US6655958B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-02 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that include a film hinge |
US6655957B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-02 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets formed from multiple plastic materials |
US6659767B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-09 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that include a deformable ligation cover to facilitate locking and unlocking |
US20030049582A1 (en) * | 2001-09-12 | 2003-03-13 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets that provide spring action from ligation cover to arch wire for dynamic active ligation |
US6932597B2 (en) * | 2001-09-12 | 2005-08-23 | Norbert Abels | Self-ligating orthodontic brackets including a metal ligation cover hingedly connected to a bracket base |
US20030189340A1 (en) * | 2002-04-09 | 2003-10-09 | Kitzis Roger S. | Anti-animal container lock |
US6960080B2 (en) * | 2003-03-04 | 2005-11-01 | Norbert Abels | Orthodontic brackets with elongate film hinge |
US7249397B2 (en) * | 2004-04-30 | 2007-07-31 | Norbert Abels | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN106542049A (en) * | 2016-12-16 | 2017-03-29 | 江苏大津重工有限公司 | A kind of impacting type quickly casts anchor release device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
MXPA06012102A (en) | 2007-04-16 |
EP1732464A2 (en) | 2006-12-20 |
US7249397B2 (en) | 2007-07-31 |
CN1946350A (en) | 2007-04-11 |
US20050241120A1 (en) | 2005-11-03 |
WO2005104984A3 (en) | 2005-12-08 |
WO2005104984A2 (en) | 2005-11-10 |
JP2007535349A (en) | 2007-12-06 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20070039143A1 (en) | Hinged latch device with elongate strap hinge | |
US5442941A (en) | Padlock | |
JP4871262B2 (en) | Slide and snap clamp | |
US6227015B1 (en) | Padlock | |
US7553279B1 (en) | Slide and snap clamp | |
US20030226260A1 (en) | Spring assisted folding knife | |
US5119980A (en) | Ski mount with ratchet-type closure | |
GB2290339A (en) | Linkage lock | |
US10920459B2 (en) | Multi-lock handcuffs | |
US11623579B2 (en) | Foldable equipment rack | |
US6327752B1 (en) | Clamping device for securing a cable | |
FR2756670A1 (en) | CONNECTOR PROVIDED WITH A LOCKING LEVER | |
EP1249543A1 (en) | Device for mutually latching two members, in particular a covering element on a support frame | |
CA2143303C (en) | Padlocks | |
US6398090B1 (en) | Guided securement arrangement in a load carrier | |
FR2624808A2 (en) | Device for transporting a sailboard on the roof of a motor vehicle | |
US7237410B2 (en) | Surfboard lock | |
US6438806B1 (en) | Slide structure for zipper | |
US11766790B1 (en) | Pivoting lockbar in a folding knife mechanism | |
KR970002718Y1 (en) | A tool box having a lock in a vehicle | |
US7383706B1 (en) | Structure of a safety lock for traveling luggage cases | |
EP1171314B1 (en) | A lockable file | |
KR100523464B1 (en) | Lock structure of the instrument board | |
JP2007030489A (en) | Document keeping file | |
EP1911914A1 (en) | Lock bar designed for opening and closing a door such as the door of a truck, trailer or others |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO PAY ISSUE FEE |