Flexible retainer clip
US6854946B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2002 |
| Grant date | Feb 15, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16B21/09
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention disclosed herein is an improved semi-rigid flexible retainer clip which is adapted for securing components, such as posts, within a sterilization container. The sterilizable, flexible retainer clip comprises a generally “U” shaped planar body having a first planar portion, second planar portion, and an integral hinge portion. Each of the planar portions have two lateral edges and a front end located opposite the hinge portion. The first planar portion and the second planar portion are biased apart from one another. The clip comprises a pair of centrally located apertures, including a first aperture on the first planar portion and a second aperture on the second planar portion. A pair of elongated narrow ridges is located on the surface of the first planar portion, each ridge being adjacent to the first aperture. The first aperture comprises a widened region and narrow region (e.g., keyhole shape). The invention also includes an instrument sterilization system including the clip. The clip is designed for manual comfort for the user despite the frequency and repetition of its use.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.