Clamps for supporting transport system structures
US8205309B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 8, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jun 26, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T24/44274
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and methods are provided for supporting one or more structural members for installation onto a vehicle structure. A clamp may include two or more curved portions joined by a living hinge. The living hinge may enable the curved portions to pivot relative to one another, providing the clamp with an open position and a closed position. The curved portions may include respective track portions, with the first and second track portions being approximately collinear when the clamp is in the closed position. An elongated rigid latch defines an elongated channel for receiving these respective track portions to provide a rigid structural link between the first and second curved portions. A mounting point is attached to the first or the second curved portion, with the mounting point being adapted to receive the structural members.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.