Retaining member and method for use with a seat track
US7448822B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 2006 |
| Grant date | Nov 11, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/606
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A retaining component for securing an external structure or panel to a seat track within a mobile platform, such as an aircraft. The retaining component includes a pair of flexible flanges that are adapted to engage an external component or panel, in one example a seat track in a commercial aircraft cabin area. The retaining component also includes a base portion having a flexible portion with at least one locking tab protruding therefrom. One or more hook-shaped engaging tabs also protrude from the base portion. The engaging tabs and the locking tab enable the retaining component to be secured to a flange of a seat track having a plurality of spaced apart holes in a manner that does not require any external threaded or rivet style fastening elements, or the use of separate assembly tools. The retaining component, in one form, is a single piece, lightweight, integrally formed component that is ideally suited for use in mobile platforms such as commercial aircraft where assembly time and costs are important considerations in the manufacture of a commercial aircraft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.