Self-locking link
US4635438A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 1, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jan 13, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 1, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16G15/04
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-locking link includes two identical link elements which are adapted for connection to two chain links and for mutual engagement with each other. Each link element is generally L-shaped and includes a head portion and a body having an aperture therein. Each body aperture includes an enlarged portion as well as a narrower, elongated portion aligned with a straight line extending between the two chain links to be coupled. The enlarged portion of each aperture is adapted to receive the head portion of the other link element and includes a V-shaped notch therein extending along the aforementioned straight line between the two coupled chain links. Application of a work force along the thus connected link elements of the generally rectangular shaped self-locking link results in the displacement of the head portion of each link element into the elongated portion of the aperture of the other link element. Further application of an increasing work load causes the elongation of each link element's aperture made possible by the slot at one end of the aperture and the inward displacement of the aperture's lateral portions so as to securely engage the head portion of the other link elemen…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.