Shelter frame connector system
Patent 5700102 Issued on December 23, 1997. Estimated Expiration Date: 
February 20, 2016. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
February 20, 2016. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent ReferencesInventorApplicationNo. 604151 filed on 02/20/1996US Classes:403/170, Three or more radiating members403/97, Including radial interengaging tongue and slot or serrations403/174, Coplanar403/217THREE OR MORE MEMBERS CONNECTED AT SINGLE LOCUSExaminersPrimary: Johnson, Brian L.Assistant: Lev, Bruce A. Attorney, Agent or FirmForeign Patent References
International ClassF16B 007/10AbstractA connector system joins together long rods or tubes at various angles to form a wide variety of shelter frames for diverse applications as well as railings, racks, and the like. The diverse connectors required are assembled from modules of the invention which are bolted together in various combinations. The modules fasten at one end to the rods or tubes. The other end of the module terminates in an annular gear adapted to intermesh at an adjustable angle with one or more gears of other modules. Once bolted together the modules form a rigid connector. The modules may be unbolted and reused to form a connector of another configuration. The few module types required to form the many connector configurations reduces inventory and manufacturing requirements.Field of SearchIncluding pivot studIncluding radially spaced detent or latch component Engaging notch or recess in outer periphery of component Pivoted detent Engaging recess in radial face Including radial interengaging tongue and slot or serrations Radially spaced arcuate slot engages fastener Locked by plural motions of one member Including bridging keeper Locked by nesting parts Members locked in axial alignment Plural distinct positions BRANCHED Three or more radiating members Coplanar Polyhedral Coplanar THREE OR MORE MEMBERS CONNECTED AT SINGLE LOCUS All encompassed Mutually contacting | |
