Patent · US Expired

Connector assembly apparatus and method for use

US6375380B1 · kind B1 · utility

2Cited by
4References
20Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 4, 2000
Grant dateApr 23, 2002
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 4, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T403/32975
  • WIPO fieldHandling
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A connector assembly suitable for use with a leveraging system is disclosed. The assembly includes two connector components, each having an attachment component receiving portion and a pin-coupling portion. The pin-coupling portions cooperate, in an assembled connector assembly, to define a closed pin-receiving orifice passing through the connector assembly. The assembly can be quickly coupled to and from a fixed pin structure, thereby facilitating changing of an attachment component such as a knob hook. Additional features include a releasable securing device that secures the connector components into a connector assembly. Also, inclusion of a rounded transitional surface on each connector component permits use, and quick attachment, of the assembly in environments wherein space is otherwise unduly restricted around the pin to be coupled. A method for using the connector assembly is also disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.