Patent · US Active

Twist off tamper-proof fastener

US7934297B2 · kind B2 · utility

20Cited by
24References
16Claims
0Family size

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateSep 22, 2008
Grant dateMay 3, 2011
Priority date
Expiry dateSep 22, 2028

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T292/507
  • WIPO fieldHandling
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A twist off tamper-proof fastener having an elongate flexible strap defining a plurality of parallel adjacent transverse teeth in opposing planar surfaces. First end portion of elongate strap is tapered to a rounded tip for insertion through a “T” slot defined in a dimensionally larger head portion carried at opposing end of the elongate strap. A fixed tooth and plural angulated teeth carried by a flexing arm irremovably engage with the teeth defined in the elongate strap. The head portion is elliptic with opposing spaced apart rounded ends and opposing planar sides to facilitate grasping and twisting by a user, and for identifying indicia. A circumferentially extending notch is defined in the elongate strap immediately adjacent the head portion. Twisting the head portion creates shearing forces that are focused at the circumferential notch breaking the fastener and allowing removal without tools.

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