Housing with snap latch closure
US5295602A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 1993 |
| Grant date | Mar 22, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D2265/028
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An engine air cleaner housing has a snap latch closure that secures the housing cover on the housing base. To form the snap latch closure, the base has a depending retaining wall, a pair of lateral projections at opposite ends of the retaining wall, and a cross bar interconnecting the lateral projections. The retaining wall, lateral projections and cross bar define a rectangular opening which receives a U-shaped tongue extending from the cover. The tongue includes a firm leg depending adjacent the retaining wall, a flexing leg adjacent the cross bar, a cam surface formed on the flexing leg and engaging the cross bar to deflect the flexing leg as the tongue is received in the opening, and a barb that snaps into engagement with the cross bar after the tongue is fully received in the opening. Engagement of the barb with the cross bar serves to retain the tongue in the opening. Engagement between the depending wall and the firm leg prevents pivotal motion of the tongue within the opening that might otherwise reduce air filter seal compression or release the barb from the cross bar.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.