WO2015103294A1

WO2015103294A1 - Fixturing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2015103294A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/072803
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael P. Fennell
Original assignee: Fennell Michael P
Priority date: 2013-12-30
Filing date: 2014-12-30
Publication date: 2015-07-09

Abstract

A fixturing apparatus 1000 which includes a tubular member 1002 formed to have an aperture 1006 extending therethrough, the aperture 1006 having a first end 101 and a second end, in combination with a plurality of locking teeth 1204 disposed on a cylindrical wall 1005 defining said aperture 1006 and extending into the aperture 1006. A method to manufacture a fixturing apparatus 100 including forming a first assembly 102A and a second assembly 102B, and forming the fixturing apparatus 100 by attaching the first assembly 102A to the second assembly 102B.

Description

FIXTURING APPARATUS

Field Of The Invention

[0001] This invention relates to a method to form a fixturing apparatus. In certain

embodiments, the invention relates to a fixturing apparatus for cables.

Background Of The Invention

[0002] It is known in the art to releaseably attached a first surface to a second surface by disposing a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners on one of the surfaces and a plurality of flexible hook-type fasteners on the other surface. When mated, the plurality of flexible hook-type fasteners engage with the plurality of fiexible loop- type fasteners to releaseably secure the first surface to the second surface.

Brief Description Of The Drawings

[0003] The invention will be better understood from a reading of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference designators are used to designate like elements, and in which:

[0004] FIG. 1 illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100;

[0005] FIG. 2A illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 200;

[0006] FIG. 2B illustrates a first surface of a flexible strap 210;

[0007] FIG. 2C illustrates a second surface of a flexible strap 210;

[0008] FIG. 3 A illustrates a subassembly used to form the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

[0009] FIG. 3B illustrates two of the subassemblies of FIG. 3 A being attached to one another to form the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

[00010] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

[00011] FIG. 3D shows a first embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

[00012] FIG. 3E shows a second embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

[00013] FIG. 3F shows a third embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

[00014] FIG. 3G shows a second perspective view of the rigid locking tooth of FIG. 3F;

[00015] FIG. 3H shows a fourth embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

[00016] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth arranged in a first orientation;

[00017] FIG. 4B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A; [00018] FIG. 4C is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A;

[00019] FIG. 5A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth

arranged in a second orientation;

[00020] FIG. 5B is a top view of four of Applicant's rigid locking teeth arranged in the orientation of FIG. 5 A;

[00021] FIG. 5C shows the angle formed by the intersection of the long axes of two

adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column, wherein those rigid locking teeth are arranged in the orientation of FIG. 5 A;

[00022] FIG. 5D is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A;

[00023] FIG. 6A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth

arranged in a third orientation;

[00024] FIG. 6B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.

6A;

[00025] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of Applicant's rigid locking teeth arranged in a fourth orientation;

[00026] FIG. 7B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth

arranged in the orientation of FIG. 7A;

[00027] FIG. 7C is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.

7A;

[00028] FIG. 8A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth

arranged in a fifth orientation;

[00029] FIG. 8B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.

8A;

[00030] FIG. 9A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth

arranged in a sixth orientation;

[00031] FIG. 9B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.

9A;

[00032] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of Applicant's fixturing apparatus 1000;

[00033] FIG. 11 is a top view of Applicant's fixturing apparatus 1000; FIG. 12A illustrates a subassembly used to form the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12B illustrates two of the subassemblies of FIG. 12A being attached to one another to form the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 10; and

FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional view of the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 10.

Detailed Description Of Preferred Embodiments

This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the following description with reference to the Figures, in which like numbers represent the same or similar elements. Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present inv ention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodi ment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

The described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific detai ls are recited to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the inv ention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, wel l-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , fixturing apparatus 100 comprises a housing formed from subassemblies 102A and 102B, wherein fixturing apparatus 1 00 is formed to include an aperture 106 extending therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 1 , a first plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 A are formed in subassembly 102A, and second plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 B are formed in subassembly 102B.

Referring to FIGs. 3 A, 3B, and 3C, each subassembly 102 comprises a U-shaped housing comprising a first lip 1 10, an opposing second lip 140. Each subassembly 1 10 further comprises a first side wall 120 interconnecting a first end of first l ip 1 10 and a first end of second lip 140, and a second side wall 130 interconnecting a second end of first lip 1 10 and a second end of second lip 140. A bottom 150 interconnects from lip 1 10, read lip 140, first side 120, and second side 130.

Each front and second lip are formed to have a height 170. Each of the plurality of locking teeth 104 are formed to have a height 160. Height 160 is greater than height 1 70. Each side wall 120 and 130 is formed to have a height 180, wherein height 180 is greater than height 1 60.

In certain embodiments. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more metals. I n certain embodiments. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more ceramic materials. In certain embodiments, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from a polymeric material selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, fixturing apparatus 100 is formed from a polymeric material selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100, and shows a first plural ity of rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240, and 250, disposed on bottom portion 1 50 A of first subassembly 102 A. Rigid locking tooth 220 is formed to include a sloping side portion 222, and a gripping edge 224. Similarly, rigid locking teeth 230, 240, and 250, are formed to include sloping side portions 232, 242, and 252, respectively. Rigid locking teeth 230, 240, and 250. are further formed to include gripping edges 234, 244, 254, and 264, respectively.

FIG . 3C further shows a second plurality of rigid locking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, disposed on bottom portion 1 SOB of second subassembly 1 02 B. Rigid locking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, are formed to include sloping side portions 262, 272, 282, and 292, respectively. Rigid locking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, are further formed to include gripping edges 264, 274, 284, and 294, respectively. A fabric material, such as for example and without limitation strap 2 10, will slide across rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, and 290 in the non- fixturing direction 380, wherein that fabric moves across the sloping side portion of a rigid locking tooth before contacting the gripping edge of that rigid locking tooth. A fabric material will not, however, slide across rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, and 290, in the opposite, or fixturing direction 390. Rather when a force is applied to the fabric along the fixturing di ection 390, portions of the fabric will engage gripping edges 224, 234, 244, 254, 264, 274, 284, and 294, thereby preventing movement of the fabric along the fixturing direction.

In embodiments wherein the fabric material comprises a plurality of flexible loop- type fasteners disposed on a surface in contact with locking teeth gripping edges 224, 234, 244, and 254, the gripping edges engage those flexible loop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement of the fabric in the fixturing direction. Similarly, in embodiments wherein the fabric material comprises a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners disposed on a surface in contact with locking teeth gripping edges 264, 274, 284, and 294, the gripping edges engage those flexible loop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement of the fabric in the fixturing direction.

Referring now to FIG. 3B, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100 is formed by attaching a top of a side wall 120 of a first fixturing subassembly 102 A to a top of a side wall 130 of a second fixturing subassembly 102B, and by attaching a top of a side wall 130 of the first fixturing subassembly 102 A to a top of a side wall 120 of the second fixturing subassembly 102 B. Because hei ght 180 of side walls 120 and 130 is greater than height 160 of each of the plurality of locking teeth 104A and 104B, an aperture 106 (FIG. 1) is formed w hen the first subassembly 102 A is attached to the second subassembly 102 B as shown in FIG. 3B.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3B, end 213 of flexible strap 210 is shown attached to subassembly 102 A. In certain embodiments, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100 comprises a rectangular cross-section, a first side, and an opposing second side, and is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough from the first side to said the side. In certain embodiments, the aperture is defined by four walls.

An end of a flexible strap can be inserted into a first end of the aperture, and moved in a first direction through said aperture and outwardly therefrom through a second end of the aperture. After insertion in and through the aperture in the first direction, the flexible strap cannot be moved-backwardly through the aperture in a second and 180 degree opposite direction.

Referring now to FIG. 2A, Applicant^'s fixturing apparatus 200 comprises locking apparatus 100 and flexible strap 210. In certain embodiments, flexible strap 210 comprises a fabric. By "fabric," Applicant means a flexible material formed by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural and/or synthetic fibers. In certain embodiments, strap 210 comprises a nylon fabric. In certain embodiments, strap 210 comprises a cotton or polyester fabric.

Referring now to FIGs. 2B and 2C, in certain embodiments flexible strap 210 comprises first end 213 attached to fixturing apparatus 100, first surface 212, distal end 216, and opposing second surface 214. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2B, flexible strap 210 further comprises a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners 126 disposed on surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2C, flexible strap 210 further comprises a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners 128 disposed on surface 214.

In certain embodiments, second end 216 of flexible strap 210 can be inserted into first end 101 (FIGs. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1), and moved in direction 380 (FIG. 3C) through aperture 106 and outwardly through second end 103 (FIGs. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1). After insertion in and through aperture 106 (FIG. 1) in first direction 380 (FIG. 3C), flexible strap 210 cannot be moved-backwardly through aperture 106 in second direction 390 (FIG. 3C).

Applicant has found that fixturing is extremely strong when the strap 210 is confined to an enclosed channel, such as aperture 106, extending through fixturing apparatus 100.

In certain embodiments, one or more of Applicant's rigid locking teeth comprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular surface attached to a first end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, and a second rectangular surface attached to an opposing end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surface distal end is attached to a said second rectangular surface distal end to form a gripping edge. For example and referring now to FIG. 3D, in certain embodiments Applicant^'s fixturing apparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 300. Rigid locking tooth 300 comprises a first embodiment of a five-sided structure.

[00055] Referring now to FIG. 3E, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturing apparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 302. Rigid locking tooth 302 comprises a second embodiment of a five-sided structure.

[00056] Rigid locking teeth 300 and 302 comprise a rectangular base 3 1 0, a first

rectangular surface 320 attached to a first end 3 14 of rectangular base 3 10 and extending outwardly therefrom, a second rectangular surface 340 attached to a second end 318 of rectangular base 3 10 and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surface distal end is attached to a said second rectangular surface distal end to form a gripping edge 324.

[00057] With respect to rigid locking tooth 300, the first rectangular surface 320 in

combination with rectangular base 3 1 0 define an internal dihedral angle of about 90 degrees. With respect to rigid locking tooth 302, the first rectangular surface 320 in combination with rectangular base 3 10 define an internal dihedral angle Φ greater than 90 degrees. In certain embodiments, Φ is about 1 10 degrees. In certain embodiments, Φ is about 1 20 degrees.

[00058] Referring now to FIG. 3F, in certain embodiments Applicant^'s fixturing apparatus comprises one or more rigid locking teeth 304. Rigid locking tooth 304 comprises a first embodiment of a six-sided structure. Referring now to FIG. 311, in certain embodiments Applicant^'s fixturmg apparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 306. Rigid locking tooth 306 comprises a second embodiment of a six-sided structure.

[00059] In certain embodiments. Applicant^'s fixturing apparatus comprises zero or more rigid locking teeth 300, in combination with zero or more rigid locking teeth 302, in combination w ith zero or more rigid locking teeth 304, in combination w ith zero or more rigid locking teeth 306.

[00060] FIG. 3F show s Applicant^'s rigid locking tooth 304. The lengths, w idths, heights, and axes, described with respect to rigid locking tooth 304 also apply to rigid locking teeth 300, 302, and 306. Base 3 10 comprises a rectangular shape defined by sides 3 12, 3 14, 3 16, and 318. Base 3 1 0 comprises a length 372 and a width 382. In certain embodiments, length 372 is between about 0.0002 mm and about 5.0 mm. I n certain embodiments, width 382 is between about 0.0001 mm and about 2.5 mm.

[00061] Rectangular-shaped side 320, defined by sides 314, 322, 324, and 326, is attached to edge 3 14 of base 3 10 and extends upwardly therefrom. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 3 A, side 320 and base 3 10 intersect to form a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90o). Side 320 comprises a height 375 and w idth 382.

[00062] In certain embodiments, height 375 is between about 0.0001 mm and about 5 mm.

In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.000 1 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.001 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.0 1 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.1 mm. In certain

embodiments, height 375 is about 1 mm.

10006 1 Rectangular-shaped side 330, defined by sides 31 8, 332, 334, and 336, is attached edge 3 18 of base 3 1 0, and extends upwardly therefrom. In the il lustrated embodiment of FIG . 3F, side 330 and base 3 10 intersect to form a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90o). Side 330 comprises a height 385 and w idth 382. In certain embodiments, height 385 is between about 0 mm and about 2.0 mm.

[00064] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, w here height 385 is 0 mm, rigid locking tooth 304 becomes rigid locking tooth 300. Where height 385 is 0 mm, sides 336 and 318 are the same, and top portion 340 intersects w ith base portion 3 10. The dimensions and axes described in FIGs. 3 A through 3B are applicable to both rigid locking tooth 300 and rigid locking tooth 305.

[00065] Sides 320 and 330 have a facing relationship, wherein height 320 is greater than height 330. In certain embodiments wherein height 385 is greater than 0, the ratio of height 375 to height 385 is between about 2 : 1 to about 6: 1 .

[00066] Top 340 comprises a rectangular shape, and is defined by sides 324, 342, 336, and

344. Top 340 comprises width 382. Referring now to FIGs. 3 A and 3 D, side 350 comprises a quadrilateral shape w ith two parallel sides 326 and 334, and is defined by sides 3 1 2, 326, 334, and 344. Referring now to FIGs. 3 A and 3E, side 360 comprises a quadrilateral shape with two parallel sides 322 and 332, and is defined by sides 3 16, 322, 332, and 342.

[00067] Referring now to FIG. 3G, rigid locking tooth 300 comprises a long axis 390

comprising a first center line of base 2 10, wherein that long axis 390 is parallel to long sides 312 and 316 and bisects short sides 314 and 31 8. Rigid locking tooth 300 further comprises short axis 395 comprising a second center line of base 2 10, wherein that short axis 395 is parallel to short sides 314 and 318 bisects long sides 3 12 and 3 16.

FIGs. 3E and 3H illustrate Applicant's rigid locking teeth 302 and 306.

As a general matter, individual rigid locking teeth disposed in any given plural ity of rigid locking teeth 104 are arranged in a pattern of columns and rows. In various embodiments of Applicant^'s invention, the orientations of individual rigid locking teeth disposed in such columns and rows differ. These various orientations are described herein with reference to the rel ationship of the long axes 390 (FIG. 3G) and short axes 395 ( FIG. 3G ) of adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column , and the relationship of the long axes 390 and short axes 395 of adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same row.

References herein to axes being "aligned" mean that those axes are coaxial and/or parallel, i.e. overlap one another. Axes described herein as not being al igned are not coaxial, i.e. do not overlap. In orientations 400 ( FIG. 4A) and 700 (FIG. 7A), the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are aligned. In orientations 500, 600, 800, and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned. In orientations 400, 500, 700, and 800, the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same row are parallel. I n orientations 600 and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same row are not parallel .

In orientations 400, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same row are aligned. In orientations 500, 600, 700, 800, and 900, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same row are not aligned.

FIG . 4 A shows a portion of plurality of Appl icant^'s rigid locking teeth, such as plurality of rigid locking teeth 104, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 400. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth show n in FIG. 4 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. I n certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth show n in FIG. 4 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth sho wn in FIG. 4A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

[00073] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4 A, the plurality of rigid locking teeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4A, rigid locking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1 . For the sake of clarity, FIG. 4 A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. In actual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individual rigid locking teeth, per square inch.

[00074] FIGs. 4B and 4C comprise top views of orientation 400 shown in FIG. 4A.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, the rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 402. In certain embodiments, spacing 402 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By "substantially the same," Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 402 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 402 is greater than width 382.

[00075] Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 404, and column 3 and column

4 are separated by spacing 406. In certain embodiments, spacing 404 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 404 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 404 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 406 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 406 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 406 is greater than width 382.

[00076] In orientation 400 shown in FIGs. 4 A, 4B, and 4C, the long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a column are aligned, and the short axis 395 (FIG. 3B) of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4; are each disposed in column 1. Aggregate long axis 450 comprises the individual long axis 390 of each of rigid locking teeth 1 , 1 ; 1 ,2; 1 ,3; and 1 ,4. Similarly, aggregate long axes 460, 470, and 480, comprise the individual long axis 390 of each rigid locking tooth disposed in columns 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

Rigid locking teeth 1 ,1 ; 2,1 ; 3,1 ; and 4, 1 ; are disposed in row 1. Aggregate short axis 410 comprises the individual short axis 395 (FIG. 3B) of each of rigid locking teeth 1 , 1 ; 2,1 ; 3,1 ; and 4, 1. Similarly, aggregate short axes 420, 430, and 440, comprise the individual short axis 395 of each tooth disposed in rows 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

FIG. 5A show^rs a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 500. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. I n certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5 A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 5 A, the plurality of rigid locking teeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1 , 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1 , 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 5 A, rigid locking tooth 1 , 1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For the sake of clarity, FIG. 5 A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 502. In certain embodiments, spacing 502 is substantially the same as the width 382 ( FIG. 3F) of the indiv idual rigid locking teeth. By "substantially the same." Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 502 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 502 is greater than width 382. Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 504, and column 3 and column 4 are separated by spacing 506. In certain embodiments, spacing 504 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 504 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 504 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 506 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 506 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 506 is greater than width 382.

FIG. 5B comprise a top view of one column of rigid locking teeth disposed in orientation 500. In orientation 500, the indiv idual long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a column are not aligned. For example, rigid locking tooth 1 ,1 comprises long axis 5 1 5, and the adjacent rigid locking tooth in column 1 , namely rigid locking tooth 1 ,2, comprises long axis 525. As FIGs. 5B and 5C illustrate, long axes 5 1 5 and 525 are not aligned. Rather, long axis 525 is offset from long axis 515 by a first offset angle Φ1. In certain embodiments, first offset angle Φ1 is betw een about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

Simi larly, long axis 535 is offset from long axis 525 by a second offset angle. In certain embodiments, second offset angle is betw een about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees. Long axis 545 is offset from long axis 535 by a third offset angle. In certain embodiments, the third offset angle is betw een about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees. As a general matter, in orientation 500 the long axis for the (i)th rigid locking tooth in (j)th column is offset from the long axis of the ad jacent (i+l)th rigid locking tooth in that (j)th column by the (i)th offset angle.

In orientation 500 illustrated in FIGs. 5 A and 5D, the long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned, how ever the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the same row are paral lel. Rigid locking teeth 1 ,4; 2.4; 3.4; and 4,4, arc all disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 5 10, 520, 530, and 540, respectively. As i llustrated in FIG. 5D, long axes 5 1 0, 520, 530, and 540, are parallel.

FIG. 6 A shows a portion of Applicant^'s pl urality of rigid locking teeth, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 600. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth show n in FIG. 6 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6 A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300. a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

[00086] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6 A, the plurality of rigid locking teeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1 , 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1 , 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6 A, rigid locking tooth 1 , 1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1 . For the sake of clarity, FIG. 6 A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. In actual implementation. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand indiv idual rigid locking teeth.

[00087] The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 602. In certain embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By "substantial ly the same," Applicant means within plus or minus twenty percent (20%). In other embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is less than width 382. I n still other embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is greater than width 382.

[00088] Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 604, and column 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 606. In certain embodiments, maximum spacing 604 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, maximum spacing 604 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, maximum spacing 604 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, maximum spacing 606 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, maximum spacing 606 is less than w idth 382. In still other embodiments, maxi mum spacing 606 is greater than width 382. In orientation 600 illustrated in FIGs. 6A and 6B, the long axes 390 (FIG. 3B) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column arc not aligned.

Moreover, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the same ro w are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1 ,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, are all disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 610, 620, 630, and 640, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 6B, long axes 610 is not parallel to long axis 620, which is not parallel to long axis 630, which is not parallel to long axis 640.

FIG. 7 A shows a portion of Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 700. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7 A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the i llustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the plurality of rigid locking teeth comprising orientation 700 are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1 , 2. 3, and 4, and rows 1 , 2, 3, and 4. In the il lustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, rigid locking tooth 1 , 1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1 . For the sake of clarity, FIG . 7B shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 702. In certain embodiments, spacing 702 is substantial ly the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By "substantially the same," Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 702 is less than width 382. I n still other embodiments, spacing 702 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 704, and column 3 and column 4 are separated by spacing 706. In certain embodiments, spacing 704 is substantially the same as the w idth 382 (FIG . 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth, in other embodiments, spacing 704 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 704 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 706 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 706 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 706 is greater than w idth 382.

|00094| In orientation 700 illustrated in FIGs. 7 A, 7B, and 7C, the long axes 390 (FIG.

3B) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are aligned. For example, aggregate long axis 7 10 comprises the individual long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of rigid locking teeth 1 ,1 ; 1 ,2; 1 .3; and 1 ,4. Similarly, aggregate long axis 720 comprises the individual long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of rigid locking teeth 2, 1 ; 2,2; 2,3: and 2.4. Similarly, aggregate long axis 730 comprises the individual long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of rigid locking teeth 3,1 ; 3,2; 3,3; and 3,4. Simi larly, aggregate long axis 740 comprises the indiv idual long axes 390 ( FIG. 3B) of rigid locking teeth 4, 1 ; 2,4; 4,3; and 4,4.

[00095] In orientation 700, the short axes 395 ( FIG. 3B) of the rigid locking tooth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1 , 1 : 2, 1 : 3, 1 ; and 4, 1 , are disposed in row 1 . Rigid locking tooth 1 ,4 comprises short axis 750. Rigid locking tooth 2,4 comprises short axis 760. Rigid locking tooth 3.4 comprises short axis 770. Rigid locking tooth 4,4 comprises short axis 780. I n the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7C, short axis 750 is not aligned w ith short axis 760, which is not aligned with short axis 770, which is not aligned with short axis 780.

[00096] FIG. 8 A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant^'s rigid locking teeth, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 800. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8 A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

[00097] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 8 A, the plurality of rigid locking teeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1 , 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1 , 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 8 A, rigid locking tooth 1 , 1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For the sake of clarity, FIG. 8 A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. In actual implementation. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth 1 04 comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individual rigid locking teeth.

[00098] The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 802. In certain embodiments, spacing 802 is substantial ly the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By "substantially the same," Appl icant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 802 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 802 is greater than width 382.

[00099] Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 804, and column 3 and column

4 are separated by spacing 806. In certain embodiments, spacing 804 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 804 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 804 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 806 is substantially the same as the width 382 ( FIG. 3F) of the indiv idual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 806 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 806 is greater than w idth 382.

[000100] In orientation 800 il lustrated in FIGs. A and 8B, the long axes 390 (FIG. 3B) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1 ,1 ; 1 ,2; 1 ,3; and 1 ,4; comprise long axes 10, 820, 830, and 840, respectively. Long axis 810 is not aligned with long axis 820, which is not aligned with long axis 830, which is not aligned with long axis 840.

[0001011 In orientation 800, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the same row are parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1 .4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4.4, are all disposed in row 4. and comprise long axes 840, 880, 890, and 895, respectively. As il lustrated in FIG. 8B, long axes 840, 880, 890, and 895, are parallel to one another. [000102] In orientation 800, the short axes 395 (FIG. 3B) of the rigid locking tooth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigid locking teeth 1 ,1 ; 2,1 ; 3,1 ; and 4,1 ; comprise short axis 815, 850, 860, and 870, respectively, wherein axis 815 is not aligned with axis 850, which is not aligned with axis 860, which is not aligned w ith axis 870.

[000103] FIG. 9A shows a portion of plural ity of Applicant^'s rigid locking teeth, wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprises orientation 900. In certain embodiments, each of the plural ity of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9 A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth show n in FIG. 9 A is selected from the group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

[000104] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 9 A, the plurality of rigid locking teeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1 , 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1 , 2, 3, and 4. In the il lustrated embodiment of FIG . 9 A, rigid locking tooth 1 ,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1 . For the sake of clarity, FIG. 9 A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. In actual implementation. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth 1 04 comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand indiv idual rigid locking teeth.

[000105] The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 902. In certain embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By "substantially the same," Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In other embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is greater than w idth 382.

[000106] Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 904, and column 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 906. In certain embodiments. maximum spacing 904 is substantially the same as th e width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, maximum spacing 904 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, maximum spacing 904 is greater than width 382. In certain embodiments, maximum spacing 906 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the indiv idual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, maximum spacing 906 is less than width 382. In still other embodiments, maximum spacing 906 is greater than width 382.

[000107] In orientation 900 illustrated in FIGs. 9A and 9B, the long axes 390 (FIG. 3B) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1 ,1 ; 1 ,2; 1 ,3; and 1 ,4; comprise long axes 910, 920, 930, and 940, respectively. Long axis 9 10 is not aligned with long axis 920, which is not aligned with long axis 930, wh ich is not aligned with long axis 940.

[000108] In orientation 900, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the same row are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1 ,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, are all disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 940, 980, 990, and 995, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, long axis 940 is not parallel with long axis 980, which is not parallel with long axis 990, which is not parallel with long axis 995. Alternate long axes, such as long axes 940 and 990 and long axes 980 and 995, are parallel to one another.

[000109] In orientation 900, the short axes 395 of the rigid locking teeth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigid locking teeth 1 , 1 ; 2, 1 ; 3.1 ; and 4, 1 ; comprise short axis 91 5, 950, 960, and 970, respectively, wherein axis 91 5 is not aligned with axis 950, which is not aligned with axis 960, which is not aligned ith axis 970.

10001 101 Referring now to FIG. 10, fixturing apparatus 1000 comprises a tubular member

1002. Fixturing apparatus 1000 is formed to include an aperture 1006 extending therethrough.

[000111] Aperture 1006 is defined by cylindrical wall 1005. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10, a plurality of rigid locking teeth 1004 extend outw ardly from cylindrical wall 1005 into aperture 1006. Aperture 1006 comprises a first opening 1001 and a second opening 1003. [000112] Annular lip 1008 is attached to tubular member 1002 at opening 1003 of aperture 1006. In certain embodiments, annular lip 1008 and tubular member 1002 comprise an integral assembly.

10001 131 FIG. 1 1 is a top view of fixturing apparatus 1000.

[000114] Referring now to FIGs. 12A and 12B, in certain embodiments fixturing apparatus

1000 is formed from subassembl ies 1 200A and 1200B. Each subassembly 1200 comprises a semi-circular member 1202 in combination with lip 1208 which extends outwardly from semi-circular member 1 202.

[000115] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12 A, a plurality of rigid locking teeth 1204 are formed in each subassembly 1200. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12B, a first plurality of rigid locking teeth 1204 A are formed in subassembly 1200A, and second plurality of rigid locking teeth 1204B are formed in subassembly 1200B.

[000116] In certain embodiments Applicant's fixturing apparatus 1000 is formed by

attaching surface 1201 A of a first fixturing subassembly 1200A to surface 1203B of a second fixturing subassembly 120QB, and by attaching surface 1203 A of the first fixturing subassembly 1200 A to surface 120 I B of the second fixturing subassembly 1200B.

[000117] In certain embodiments, the attachment of surfaces 1201 A and 1 203 B, and the attachment of surfaces 120 IB and 1203 A is made using an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the attachment of surfaces 1 201 A and 1203B, and the attachment of surfaces 1201 B and 1 203 A is made using ultrasonic welding.

[000118] In certain embodiments. Applicant^'s plural ity of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more metals, in certain embodiments. Applicant^'s plurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more ceramic materials. In certain embodiments. Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from a polymeric material selected from a group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, fixturing apparatus 1000 is formed from a polymeric material selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane. polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

[000119] FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional view of Applicant's fixturing apparatus 1000, and shows a first plurality of rigid locking teeth 1220, 1230, 1240, and 1250, disposed on aperture surface 1205. In certain embodiments, this portion of aperture surface 1205 comprises surface 1205 A of subassembly 1 200 A. Locking teeth 1220, 1230, 1240, and 1250, comprise a portion of the plurality of locking teeth 1204.

[000120] Rigid locking tooth 1 220 is formed to include a sloping side portion 1222, and a gripping edge 1224. Similarly, rigid locking teeth 1230, 1240, and 1250, are formed to include sloping side portions 1 232, 1 242, and 1252, respectively. Rigid locking teeth 1230, 1240, and 1250, arc further formed to include gripping edges 1234, 1244, 1 254, and 1264, respectively.

[0001211 FIG. 12C further shows a second plurality of rigid locking teeth 1 260, 1 270, 1280, and 1290, disposed on aperture surface 1205. In certain embodiments, this port ion of aperture surface 1205 comprises surface 1 205 B of subassembly 1200B. Locking teeth 1260, 1270, 1280, and 1290, comprise a portion of the plurality of locking teeth 1204.

[000122] Rigid locking teeth 1260, 1270, 1280, and 1290, are formed to include sloping side portions 1 262, 1 272, 1282, and 1 292, respectively. Rigid locking teeth 1 260, 1270, 1280, and 1290, arc further formed to include gripping edges 1264, 1274, 1284, and 1 294, respectively.

[000123] A fabric material, such as for example and without l imitation strap 1295, will slide across rigid locking teeth 1220, 1230, 1240, 1250, 1260, 1270, 1280, and 1290 in the non-fixturing direction 1280, wherein that fabric moves across the sloping side portion of a rigid locking tooth before contacting the gripping edge of that rigid locking tooth . A fabric material will not, however, sl ide across rigid locking teeth 1220, 1230. 1240, 1250, 1260, 1270, 1280, and 1290, in the opposite, or fixturing direction 1 290. Rather when a force is applied to the fabric along the fixturing direction 1290, portions of the fabric will engage gripping edges 1224, 1234, 1244, 1254, 1264, 1274, 284, and 1294, thereby prev enting mov ement of the fabric along the fixturing direction. [000124] In embodiments wherein the fabric material comprises a plurality of flexible loop- type fasteners disposed on a surface in contact with locking teeth gripping edges 1224, 1234, 244, and 1254, the gripping edges engage those flexible loop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement of the fabric in the fi turing direction. Similarly, in embodiments wherein the fabric material comprises a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners disposed on a surface in contact with locking teeth gripping edges 1264. 1274, 1284, and 1294, the gripping edges engage those flexible loop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement of the fabric in the fixturing direction.

[000125] Whi le the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been il lustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications and adaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth herein.

Claims

I claim:

1. A method to manufacture a fixturing apparatus, comprising:

forming a first assembly and a second assembly, wherein both said first assembly and said second assembly comprise a bottom, a first lip extending outwardly from said bottom, an opposing second lip extending outwardly from said bottom, a first side wall extending outwardly from said bottom and connecting a first end of said first lip and a first end of said second lip, a second side wall extending outwardly from said bottom and connecting a second end of said first lip and a second end of said second lip, and a plurality of locking teeth extending outwardly from said bottom, wherein said plurality of locking teeth are disposed between said first lip, said second lip, said first side, and said second side;

forming said fixturing apparatus by attaching said first assembly to said second assembly.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said forming further comprises:

attaching a top of a first side wall of said first assembly to a top of a second side wall of said second assembly; and

attaching a top of a second side wall of said first assembly to a top of a first side wall of said second assembly.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein said attaching comprises ultrasonic welding.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein said attaching comprises adhesive bonding.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein:

each first lip and each second lip comprises a first height;

each first side wall and each second side wall comprises a second height;

each of said plurality of locking teeth comprises a third height;

wherein:

said second height is greater than said first height;

said third height is greater than said first height but less than said second height;

said fixturing apparatus comprises a housing having a rectangular cross-section, a first side, and an opposing second side, and is formed to include an aperture extending

therethrough from the first side to said the side.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:

providing a flexible strap having a first end and a second end;

attaching said second end of said strap to said housing.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein said attaching comprises ultrasonic welding.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein said attaching comprises adhesive bonding.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein:

said first end of said flexible strap can be inserted into a first end of said aperture, and moved in a first direction through said aperture and outwardly therefrom through a second end of the aperture;

after insertion in and through said aperture in said first direction, said flexible strap cannot be moved-backwardly through said aperture in a second and 180 degree opposite direction.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein said forming comprises forming a plurality of locking teeth wherein each looking tooth comprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular surface attached to a first end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, and a second rectangular surface attached to an opposing end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surface distal end is attached to a second rectangular surface distal end to form a gripping edge.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein said forming comprises forming a plurality of locking teeth wherein each looking tooth comprises a five-sided structure.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein said forming comprises forming a plurality of locking teeth wherein each looking tooth comprises a six-sided structure.

13. A method to manufacture a fixturing apparatus, comprising:

forming a first assembly comprising a first semi-circular member and a first plurality of locking teeth disposed on an interior surface of said semi-circular member and extending outwardly therefrom;

forming a second assembly comprising a second semi-circular member and a second plurality of locking teeth disposed on an interior surface of said semi-circular member and extending outwardly therefrom;

attaching said first assembly to said second assembly.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein:

said first semi-circular member comprises a first end and a second end;

said second semi-circular member comprises a first end and a second end

said attaching further comprises: attaching an end of said first semi-circular member to an end of said second semicircular member, and attaching a second end of said first semi-circular member to a second end of said second semi-circular member, to form a tubular member having an aperture extending therethrough, wherein said first plurality of locking teeth extend into said aperture and wherein said second plurality of locking teeth extend into said aperture.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein said attaching comprises ultrasonic welding.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein said attaching comprises adhesive bonding.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein said first assembly further comprises a first semi-circular lip attached to said first semi-circular member and extending outwardly therefrom.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein said second assembly further comprises a second semi-circular lip attached to said first semi-circular member and extending outwardly therefrom.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising attaching said first semi-circular lip to said second semi-circular lip to form an annular lip attached to said tubular member and extending outwardly therefrom.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein said first plurality of locking teeth each comprises a five-sided structure.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein said second plurality of locking teeth each comprises a five-sided structure.

22. The method of claim 13, wherein said first plurality of locking teeth each comprises a six-sided structure.

23. The method of claim 13, wherein said second plurality of locking teeth each comprises a six-sided structure.

24. A fixturing apparatus, comprising:

a tubular member formed to include an aperture extending therethrough, said aperture having a first end and a second end;

a plurality of locking teeth disposed on a surface defining said aperture and extending into said aperture;

wherein: an end of a flexible strap can be inserted into said first end of said aperture, and moved in a first direction through said aperture and outwardly therefrom through said second end of said aperture;

after insertion in and through said aperture in said first direction, said flexible strap cannot be moved-backwardly through said aperture in a second and opposite direction.

25. The fixturing apparatus of claim 24, further comprising an annular lip attached to said tubular member and extending outwardly therefrom.

26. The fixturing apparatus of claim 24, wherein said plurality of locking teeth each comprises a five-sided structure.

27. The fixturing apparatus of claim 24, wherein said plurality of locking teeth each comprises a six-sided structure.

28. The fixturing apparatus of claim 24, wherein each locking tooth of said plurality of locking teeth comprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular side attached to a first end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, and a second rectangular side attached to an opposing end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular side distal end is attached to a said second rectangular side distal end to form a gripping edge;

29. The fixturing apparatus of claim 28, wherein:

said rectangular base comprises two parallel opposing short sides in combination with two parallel and opposing long sides;

each locking tooth comprises a long axis parallel to said long sides and which bisects each short side;

each locking tooth comprises a short axis parallel to said short sides and which bisects each long side;

said plurality of locking teeth are arranged in a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows.

30. The fixturing apparatus of claim 29, wherein the long axes of each locking teeth disposed in a column are aligned with one another.

31. The fixturing apparatus of claim 29, wherein the short axis of each locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned with one another.

32. The fixturing apparatus of claim 29, wherein the short axis of each locking tooth disposed in a row are not aligned with one another.