CA2487292A1 - Clamping apparatus for holding a post and the like - Google Patents
Clamping apparatus for holding a post and the like Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2487292A1 CA2487292A1 CA002487292A CA2487292A CA2487292A1 CA 2487292 A1 CA2487292 A1 CA 2487292A1 CA 002487292 A CA002487292 A CA 002487292A CA 2487292 A CA2487292 A CA 2487292A CA 2487292 A1 CA2487292 A1 CA 2487292A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- clamping apparatus
- main body
- post
- clamping
- receiving
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000003319 supportive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 235000021178 picnic Nutrition 0.000 description 16
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 206010019345 Heat stroke Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010042496 Sunburn Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2/00—Friction-grip releasable fastenings
- F16B2/02—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening
- F16B2/06—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action
- F16B2/065—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action using screw-thread elements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B9/00—Connections of rods or tubular parts to flat surfaces at an angle
- F16B9/05—Connections of rods or tubular parts to flat surfaces at an angle by way of an intermediate member
- F16B9/054—Connections of rods or tubular parts to flat surfaces at an angle by way of an intermediate member the intermediate member being threaded
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/003—Combinations of clamps
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/06—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws
- B25B5/10—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws using screws
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
- B25B5/00—Clamps
- B25B5/06—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws
- B25B5/10—Arrangements for positively actuating jaws using screws
- B25B5/101—C-clamps
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B5/00—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them
- F16B5/06—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them by means of clamps or clips
- F16B5/0685—Joining sheets or plates to strips or bars
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
Abstract
A clamping apparatus for clamping a post and the like to a structurally supportive object comprises a main body, and has an indent in the main body for receiving a portion of the structurally supportive object therein. A first threaded fastener is for selectively securing the clamping apparatus to the structurally supportive object received within the indent in the main body. A
clamping element is separate from the main body and is removably mountable on the main body for clamping a post thereto. A second first threaded fastener is for selectively securing the clamping element in adjustable relation to the main body, such that the post is clamped to the clamping apparatus.
clamping element is separate from the main body and is removably mountable on the main body for clamping a post thereto. A second first threaded fastener is for selectively securing the clamping element in adjustable relation to the main body, such that the post is clamped to the clamping apparatus.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[000] The present invention relates to a clamping apparatus, and more particularly to a clamping apparatus used for clamping objects that have a post, such as an umbrella or flag, to a structurally supportive object, such as a picnic table, fence rail, chair, bleacher, and so on.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[000] The present invention relates to a clamping apparatus, and more particularly to a clamping apparatus used for clamping objects that have a post, such as an umbrella or flag, to a structurally supportive object, such as a picnic table, fence rail, chair, bleacher, and so on.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] It is common during warm and sunny weather, to spend time outdoors. Most individuals seek shade from direct sunlight in order to prevent sunburn, heatstroke, and so on. Where possible, it is common to use an umbrella, such as at a picnic table or at the beach. One way to do this, is to set up an umbrella adjacent the picnic table or chair, with the umbrella supported by a weighted base or stuck into the ground. In order to use an umbrella with a weighted base, it typically must have a secondary support, such as the picnic table itself, perhaps two or three feet off the ground, for purposes of stability. It is very common to see large umbrellas inserted through a central aperture in a picnic table, or other type of table and engaged at the bottom of its post in a weighted base. Unfortunately, in many instances, there is no aperture in the picnic table and there is no weighted base available. It may also be desired to have an umbrella positioned in another location or adjacent to the picnic table, or alternatively, a second umbrella may be required. Further, there is no provision on most chairs for holding an umbrella. Also, it is not possible to use such an umbrella and weighted stand with a chair. Also, it might be desired to fly a flag from the picnic table or chair.
[0003] Further, it is often not possible ~~o stick an umbrella or flag into the ground since the ground may be too hard or there may be no ground available.
[0004] Accordingly, what is needed, is a clamping apparatus that permits clamping of the post of a flag or umbrella, or the like, to a structurally supported object, such as a picnic table, a fence rail, a chair, a bleacher, and so on.
[0005] United States Design Patent D470,400 issued February 18, 2003, to Eraser et a1, and United States Design Patent 396,185 issued July 21, 1998 to Eraser, each disclose an umbrella clamp having parallel arms extending horizontally outwardly from a vertically disposed hollow cylinder with a gap between the parallel arms. A first threaded fastener is used to clamp the umbrella clamp to a structurally supportive object disposed in the gap between the first and second arms. Further, in the D470,400 patent, a second threaded fastener is used to clamp a post into the hollow cylinder.
[0006] While the umbrella clamps disclosed in these design patents work well, they have somewhat limited utility in that there is a fixed angle of orientation between the hollow channel and the space between the first and second arms. Further, only limited shapes and sizes can fit into the hollow channel to be clamped.
[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a clamping apparatus for clamping a post, such as might be found as part of an umbrella, flag, and so on, to a a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, and so on.
[0008] It is another object of the present invention to provide a clamping apparatus for clamping a post, such as might be found as part of an umbrella, flag, and so on, to a a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, and so on, wherein the post might be of a small or large diameter.
[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a clamping apparatus for clamping a post, such as might be found as part of an umbrella, flag, and so on, to a a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, and so on, wherein the post maybe oriented at a selected one of a plurality of angles.
SUGARY OF THE INVENTION
[0~010 In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel clamping apparatus for clamping a post and the like to a structurally supportive abject. The clamping apparatus comprises a main body, and has an undent in the main body for receiving a portion of the structurally supportive object therein. A first securing means is for se=Lectively securing the clamping apparatus to the structurally supportive object received within the indent in the main body. A clamping element is separate from the main body and is removably mountable on the main body for clamping a post thereto. A second securing means is for selectively securing the clamping element in adjustable relation to the main body, such that the post is clamped to the clamping apparatus.
(00011] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and th.e combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00012] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[00013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention;
[00014] Figure 2 is ar~ exploded perspective view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l;
[00015] Figure 3A is a front elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1, with the clamping element in a first position;
[00016] Figure 3B is a front elevation<~l view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l, with the clamping element in a second position;
[00017] Figure 3C is a front elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l, with the clamping element in a third position;
[00018] Figure 4 is a rear elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00019] Figure 5 is a right end view af_ the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00020] Figure 6 is a left end view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00021] Figure 7 is a front elevational view similar to Figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with ;~ post clamped in place in an upright orientation;
[00022] Figure 8 is a front elevational view similar to Figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with <~ post clamped in place in an angled orientation;
[00023] Figure 9 is a front elevational view similar to figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with a post clamped in place in a horizontal orientation;
[00024] Figure 10 is a front elevationG.l view of the second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention;
[00025] Figure 11 is a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping appawatus according to the present invention;
[00026] Figure 12 is a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus according to the present invention; and, [00027] Figure 13 is a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus according to the present invention.
DEVILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND A7~TERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[00028] Referring to Figures 1 through 13 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 9 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, Figure 10 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, Figure 11 illustrates a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention; Figure 22 illustrates a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention; and Figure 13 illustrates a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention,.
[00029] Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 9, which show a first preferred embodiment of the clapping apparatus of the _ g _ present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20.
The clamping apparatus 20 is for clamping a post 22 and the like to a structurally supportive object. The post 22 might be a flag pole, an umbrella, or one of several other ii~ems to be clamped onto a structurally supportive object 24 such as a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, or the like.
[00030] The first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 20 comprises a substantially circular main body 30 that is preferably plate-like in shape, and defines a main plane "P" and a post-receiving face 32.
[00031] There is an indent 40 in the main body 30 for receiving a portion of the structurally supportive object 24 therein. In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the indent 40 comprises a slot 40 having first and second substantially parallel edges 41,42, so as to be properly received on a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, or the like.
[00032] There is a first post-receiving channel 51 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which first post-receiving channel 52 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section.
There is also a second post-receiving channel 52 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which second post-receiving channel 52 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section.
Further, there is also a third post-receiving channel 53 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which third post-receiving channel 53 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section. The arcuate crass-sectional shapes of the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 are preferably of a radius about the same size as a standard umbrella post 22. or flag pole, or slightly larger.
[00033] The first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 are substantially straight so as to properly receive a straight post 22 therein, and are disposed in a common surface in the main body 30, namely the post-receiving face 32 and intersect each other at an angle preferably of about forty-five degrees, so as to permit an umbrella or flag, or the like, to be maintained in an upright orientation or an angled orientat_Lon, depending on need.
The clamping apparatus 20 may also be used t.o clamp a post 22 in a horizontal orientation, if the clamping apparatus 20 is clamped onta a structurally supportive object 24 such that the slot 40 is oriented vertically.
[00034] There may also be additional post-receiving channels at other angles, as deemed desirable.
SUGARY OF THE INVENTION
[0~010 In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel clamping apparatus for clamping a post and the like to a structurally supportive abject. The clamping apparatus comprises a main body, and has an undent in the main body for receiving a portion of the structurally supportive object therein. A first securing means is for se=Lectively securing the clamping apparatus to the structurally supportive object received within the indent in the main body. A clamping element is separate from the main body and is removably mountable on the main body for clamping a post thereto. A second securing means is for selectively securing the clamping element in adjustable relation to the main body, such that the post is clamped to the clamping apparatus.
(00011] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and th.e combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00012] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[00013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention;
[00014] Figure 2 is ar~ exploded perspective view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l;
[00015] Figure 3A is a front elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1, with the clamping element in a first position;
[00016] Figure 3B is a front elevation<~l view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l, with the clamping element in a second position;
[00017] Figure 3C is a front elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure l, with the clamping element in a third position;
[00018] Figure 4 is a rear elevational view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00019] Figure 5 is a right end view af_ the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00020] Figure 6 is a left end view of the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus of Figure 1;
[00021] Figure 7 is a front elevational view similar to Figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with ;~ post clamped in place in an upright orientation;
[00022] Figure 8 is a front elevational view similar to Figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with <~ post clamped in place in an angled orientation;
[00023] Figure 9 is a front elevational view similar to figure 3, but with the clamping apparatus in use with a post clamped in place in a horizontal orientation;
[00024] Figure 10 is a front elevationG.l view of the second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus according to the present invention;
[00025] Figure 11 is a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping appawatus according to the present invention;
[00026] Figure 12 is a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus according to the present invention; and, [00027] Figure 13 is a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus according to the present invention.
DEVILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND A7~TERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[00028] Referring to Figures 1 through 13 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 9 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, Figure 10 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, Figure 11 illustrates a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention; Figure 22 illustrates a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention; and Figure 13 illustrates a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention,.
[00029] Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 9, which show a first preferred embodiment of the clapping apparatus of the _ g _ present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20.
The clamping apparatus 20 is for clamping a post 22 and the like to a structurally supportive object. The post 22 might be a flag pole, an umbrella, or one of several other ii~ems to be clamped onto a structurally supportive object 24 such as a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, or the like.
[00030] The first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 20 comprises a substantially circular main body 30 that is preferably plate-like in shape, and defines a main plane "P" and a post-receiving face 32.
[00031] There is an indent 40 in the main body 30 for receiving a portion of the structurally supportive object 24 therein. In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the indent 40 comprises a slot 40 having first and second substantially parallel edges 41,42, so as to be properly received on a picnic table, chair, railing, fence, bleacher seat, or the like.
[00032] There is a first post-receiving channel 51 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which first post-receiving channel 52 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section.
There is also a second post-receiving channel 52 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which second post-receiving channel 52 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section.
Further, there is also a third post-receiving channel 53 in the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, which third post-receiving channel 53 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section. The arcuate crass-sectional shapes of the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 are preferably of a radius about the same size as a standard umbrella post 22. or flag pole, or slightly larger.
[00033] The first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 are substantially straight so as to properly receive a straight post 22 therein, and are disposed in a common surface in the main body 30, namely the post-receiving face 32 and intersect each other at an angle preferably of about forty-five degrees, so as to permit an umbrella or flag, or the like, to be maintained in an upright orientation or an angled orientat_Lon, depending on need.
The clamping apparatus 20 may also be used t.o clamp a post 22 in a horizontal orientation, if the clamping apparatus 20 is clamped onta a structurally supportive object 24 such that the slot 40 is oriented vertically.
[00034] There may also be additional post-receiving channels at other angles, as deemed desirable.
[00035] As can be readily seen in the Figures, the main body 30 comprises an upper portion 30a having the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 therein, and a lower portion 30b having the slot 40, a small portion of the second post-receiving channel 52, and almost half of the third post-receiving channel 53 therein.
[00036] There is a first securing means 50 for selectively securing the clamping apparatus 20 to the structurally supportive object 24 received within the indent 40 in the main body 30. In the first preferred embodiment, the first securing means 50 comprises a first threaded fastener 50 having a threaded portion 52 and a manually operable head portion 54. The threaded portion 52 is threadibly engaged in a co-operating first threaded bore hole 34 in the main body 30. The first threaded bore hole 34 in the main body 30 is substantially parallel to the main plane "P" of the substantially circular main body 30, extends downwardly from the main body 30, such that the manually operable head portion 54 projects downwardly.
[00037] There is alsc a clamping element 60 that is separate from the main body 30 and is removably mountable an the main body 30 for clamping a post 22 thereto. The clamping element 60 may be selectively positioned, as indicated by double ended arrow "A°°
in Figures 3A, 3B and 3C, in any of three positions, namely a first position, a second position, and a third position. In the first position the clamping element 60 is over th~~ first post-receiving channel 51 (Figure 3A). In the second position the clamping element 60 is over the second post-receiving channel 52 (Figure 3A). In the third position the clamping element 60 is over the third post-receiving channel 53 (Figure 3C). The clamping element 60 is moved as indicated by dauble ended arrow "A", as desired, depending on which of the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 that the post 22 is to be clamped into.
[0003$] The clamping element 60 comprises a curved body 61 includes a co-operating post-receiving channel 62 therein, which co-operating post -rece_~ving channel 62 faces the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, and co-operates with the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53, depending on the position of the clamping element 60. The co-operating post-receiving channel 62 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section. The arcuate cross-sectional shapes of the co-operating past-receiving channel 62 is also preferably of a radius about the same size as a standard umbrella post or flag pole, or slightly larger.
[00036] There is a first securing means 50 for selectively securing the clamping apparatus 20 to the structurally supportive object 24 received within the indent 40 in the main body 30. In the first preferred embodiment, the first securing means 50 comprises a first threaded fastener 50 having a threaded portion 52 and a manually operable head portion 54. The threaded portion 52 is threadibly engaged in a co-operating first threaded bore hole 34 in the main body 30. The first threaded bore hole 34 in the main body 30 is substantially parallel to the main plane "P" of the substantially circular main body 30, extends downwardly from the main body 30, such that the manually operable head portion 54 projects downwardly.
[00037] There is alsc a clamping element 60 that is separate from the main body 30 and is removably mountable an the main body 30 for clamping a post 22 thereto. The clamping element 60 may be selectively positioned, as indicated by double ended arrow "A°°
in Figures 3A, 3B and 3C, in any of three positions, namely a first position, a second position, and a third position. In the first position the clamping element 60 is over th~~ first post-receiving channel 51 (Figure 3A). In the second position the clamping element 60 is over the second post-receiving channel 52 (Figure 3A). In the third position the clamping element 60 is over the third post-receiving channel 53 (Figure 3C). The clamping element 60 is moved as indicated by dauble ended arrow "A", as desired, depending on which of the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53 that the post 22 is to be clamped into.
[0003$] The clamping element 60 comprises a curved body 61 includes a co-operating post-receiving channel 62 therein, which co-operating post -rece_~ving channel 62 faces the post-receiving face 32 of the main body 30, and co-operates with the first, second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53, depending on the position of the clamping element 60. The co-operating post-receiving channel 62 is preferably substantially arcuate in cross-section. The arcuate cross-sectional shapes of the co-operating past-receiving channel 62 is also preferably of a radius about the same size as a standard umbrella post or flag pole, or slightly larger.
[00039] A second securing means 70 is used for selectively securing the clamping element 60 in adj ustable relation to the main body 30, such that the post 22 is clamped to the clamping apparatus 20. In the first preferred embodiment, the second securing means 70 comprises a second threaded fastener 70 having a threaded portion 72 and a manually operable head portion 74. The threaded portion 72 passes through a bore hole 36 in the main body 30 and is threadibly engaged in a co-operating second threaded bore hole 69 in the clamping element 60. The bore hole 36 in the main body 30 and the second threaded bore hole 69 in the clamping element 60 are oriented substantially perpendicularly to the main plane "P". The second threaded bore hole 69 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 38 projecting outwardly from the main body 30.
There are also first and second supporting ribs 39a,39b spanning between the cylindrically sr~aped receiving portion and the main body 30. These first and second supporting ribs 39a,39b provide structural strength to the cylindrically shaped receiving portion 38.
[00040] Reference will now be made to Figures 7, 8 and 9, which show the clamping element 60 selectively positioned, as indicated by double ended arrow "A" in its first position, second position, and third position, respectively. The clamping apparatus 20 is clamped by means of the first threaded fastener 50 to a structurally supportive object 24, which may be a picnic table, a back-yard table, a chair arm, a deck, and so on. In Figure 7, the post 22 is clamped in place in the first post-receiving channel 51 by the clamping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented vertically. In Figure 8, the post 22 is clamped in place in the second post-receiving channel 52 by the clamping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented at a forty-five degree angle with respect to both vertical and horizontal. In Figure 9, the post 22 is clamped in place in the third post-receiving channel 53 by the c1 amping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented horizontally.
[0A041] Reference will now be made to Figure 10, which shows a second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220.
The second preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 220 is similar to the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 20, except the main body 234 is substantially octagonal.
[00042] Reference will now be made to Figure 11, which shows a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The first alternative embodiment clamping element 360 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a co-operating post-receiving channel 362 and a solid ridge 364 disposed on its outer surface.
The first alternative embodiment clamping element 360 is reversible such that the either the co-operating post-receiving channel 362 or the solid ridge 364 faces the first, second and third post-receiving channels in the main body of the clamping apparatus. The solid ridge 364 is used to retain very small diameter post in place. The second threaded bore hole 369 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 338 located on the side of the clamping element 360.
[00043, Reference will now be made to Figure 22, which shows a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element 460 used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The second alternative embodiment clamping element 460 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a first curved body 461a with a first co-operating post-receiving channel 462a and a second curved body 461b with a second co-operating post-receiving channel 462b. The first curved body 461a and the second curved body 461b attached to each other so as to face in opposite directions. The first co-operating post-receiving channel 462a fits larger diameter posts and the second co-operating post-receiving channel 462a fits smaller diameter posts. The second threaded bore hole 469 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 438 located on the side of the clamping element 460.
[00044] Reference will now be made to Figure 13, which shows a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element 560 used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The third alternative embodiment clamping element 560 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a "V"-shaped body 561a with a first co-operating post-receiving channel 562a which may be used to fit larger diameter posts. The "V"-shaped body 561a is turned around one hundred eighty degrees such that the apex of the '°~l" faces the first second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53, in the main body 30. The second threaded bore hole 569 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 538 located on the side of the clamping element 560.
[00045] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a clamping apparatus for clamping a post, such as might be found as part of an umbrella, flag, and so on, to a picnic table, chair, fence railing, bleacher, and so on, wherein the post might be of a small or large diameter, and wherein the post maybe oriented at a selected one of a plurality of angles, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[00~46] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be wit'nin the scope of the present invention. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the clamping apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
There are also first and second supporting ribs 39a,39b spanning between the cylindrically sr~aped receiving portion and the main body 30. These first and second supporting ribs 39a,39b provide structural strength to the cylindrically shaped receiving portion 38.
[00040] Reference will now be made to Figures 7, 8 and 9, which show the clamping element 60 selectively positioned, as indicated by double ended arrow "A" in its first position, second position, and third position, respectively. The clamping apparatus 20 is clamped by means of the first threaded fastener 50 to a structurally supportive object 24, which may be a picnic table, a back-yard table, a chair arm, a deck, and so on. In Figure 7, the post 22 is clamped in place in the first post-receiving channel 51 by the clamping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented vertically. In Figure 8, the post 22 is clamped in place in the second post-receiving channel 52 by the clamping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented at a forty-five degree angle with respect to both vertical and horizontal. In Figure 9, the post 22 is clamped in place in the third post-receiving channel 53 by the c1 amping element 60 as secured in place by the second threaded fastener 70, so as to be oriented horizontally.
[0A041] Reference will now be made to Figure 10, which shows a second preferred embodiment of the clamping apparatus of the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220.
The second preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 220 is similar to the first preferred embodiment clamping apparatus 20, except the main body 234 is substantially octagonal.
[00042] Reference will now be made to Figure 11, which shows a first alternative embodiment of the clamping element used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The first alternative embodiment clamping element 360 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a co-operating post-receiving channel 362 and a solid ridge 364 disposed on its outer surface.
The first alternative embodiment clamping element 360 is reversible such that the either the co-operating post-receiving channel 362 or the solid ridge 364 faces the first, second and third post-receiving channels in the main body of the clamping apparatus. The solid ridge 364 is used to retain very small diameter post in place. The second threaded bore hole 369 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 338 located on the side of the clamping element 360.
[00043, Reference will now be made to Figure 22, which shows a second alternative embodiment of the clamping element 460 used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The second alternative embodiment clamping element 460 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a first curved body 461a with a first co-operating post-receiving channel 462a and a second curved body 461b with a second co-operating post-receiving channel 462b. The first curved body 461a and the second curved body 461b attached to each other so as to face in opposite directions. The first co-operating post-receiving channel 462a fits larger diameter posts and the second co-operating post-receiving channel 462a fits smaller diameter posts. The second threaded bore hole 469 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 438 located on the side of the clamping element 460.
[00044] Reference will now be made to Figure 13, which shows a third alternative embodiment of the clamping element 560 used in the clamping apparatus of the present invention. The third alternative embodiment clamping element 560 is similar to the clamping apparatus 60, except that it has a "V"-shaped body 561a with a first co-operating post-receiving channel 562a which may be used to fit larger diameter posts. The "V"-shaped body 561a is turned around one hundred eighty degrees such that the apex of the '°~l" faces the first second and third post-receiving channels 51,52,53, in the main body 30. The second threaded bore hole 569 is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion 538 located on the side of the clamping element 560.
[00045] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a clamping apparatus for clamping a post, such as might be found as part of an umbrella, flag, and so on, to a picnic table, chair, fence railing, bleacher, and so on, wherein the post might be of a small or large diameter, and wherein the post maybe oriented at a selected one of a plurality of angles, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[00~46] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be wit'nin the scope of the present invention. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the clamping apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
Claims (23)
1. A clamping apparatus for clamping a post and the like to a structurally supportive object, said clamping apparatus comprising:
a main body;
an indent in said main body for receiving a portion of said structurally supportive object therein;
first securing means for selectively securing said clamping apparatus to said structurally supportive object received within said indent in said main body;
a clamping element separate from said main body and removably mountable on said main body for clamping a post thereto;
second securing means for selectively securing said clamping element in adjustable relation to said main body, such that said post is clamped to said clamping apparatus.
a main body;
an indent in said main body for receiving a portion of said structurally supportive object therein;
first securing means for selectively securing said clamping apparatus to said structurally supportive object received within said indent in said main body;
a clamping element separate from said main body and removably mountable on said main body for clamping a post thereto;
second securing means for selectively securing said clamping element in adjustable relation to said main body, such that said post is clamped to said clamping apparatus.
2. The clamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein said main body comprises a plate-like shape and defines a main plane and a post-receiving face.
3. The clamping apparatus of claim 2, wherein said indent comprises a slot.
4. The clamping apparatus of claim 3, wherein said slot has first and second substantially parallel edges.
5. The clamping apparatus of claim 4, wherein said main body includes a first post-receiving channel therein.
6. The clamping apparatus of claim 5, wherein said first post-receiving channel is substantially arcuate in cross-section.
7. The clamping apparatus of claim 6, wherein said main body includes a second post-receiving channel therein.
8. The clamping apparatus of claim 7, wherein said second post-receiving channel is substantially arcuate in cross-section.
9. The clamping apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first and second post-receiving channels are substantially straight.
10. The clamping apparatus of claim 9, wherein said first and second post -receiving channels are disposed in a common surface in said main body and intersect each other at an angle.
11. The clamping apparatus of claim 10, wherein said angle is about forty-five degrees.
12. The clamping apparatus of claim 11, wherein said main body comprises a lower portion having said slot therein, and an upper portion having said first and second post-receiving channels therein.
13. The clamping apparatus of claim 12, wherein said first securing means comprises a first threaded fastener threadibly engaged in a co-operating first threaded bore hole in said main body.
14. The clamping apparatus of claim 13, wherein said first threaded bore hole in said main body is substantially parallel to said main plane.
15. The clamping apparatus of claim 14, wherein said first threaded fastener extends downwardly from said main body.
16. The clamping apparatus of claim 15, wherein said second securing means comprises a second threaded fastener threadibly engaged in a co-operating second threaded bore hole in said clamping element.
17. The clamping apparatus of claim 16, wherein said second threaded bore hole in said main body is substantially perpendicular to said main plane.
18. The clamping apparatus of claim 17, wherein said second threaded bore hole is disposed in a cylindrically shaped receiving portion projecting outwardly from said main body.
19. The clamping apparatus of claim 18, further comprising first and second supporting ribs spanning between said cylindrically shaped receiving portion and said main body.
20. The clamping apparatus of claim 19, wherein said clamping element includes a co-operating post-receiving channel therein, which co-operating post-receiving channel faces said post-receiving face of said main body.
21. The clamping apparatus of claim 20, wherein said co-operating past-receiving channel is substantially arcuate in cross-section.
22. The clamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein said main body is substantially circular.
23. The clamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein said main body is substantially octagonal.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002487292A CA2487292A1 (en) | 2004-11-30 | 2004-11-30 | Clamping apparatus for holding a post and the like |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002487292A CA2487292A1 (en) | 2004-11-30 | 2004-11-30 | Clamping apparatus for holding a post and the like |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2487292A1 true CA2487292A1 (en) | 2006-05-30 |
Family
ID=36565873
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002487292A Abandoned CA2487292A1 (en) | 2004-11-30 | 2004-11-30 | Clamping apparatus for holding a post and the like |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2487292A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1832802A2 (en) * | 2006-03-06 | 2007-09-12 | August Hitzbleck Söhne GmbH | Bracket clip |
-
2004
- 2004-11-30 CA CA002487292A patent/CA2487292A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1832802A2 (en) * | 2006-03-06 | 2007-09-12 | August Hitzbleck Söhne GmbH | Bracket clip |
| EP1832802A3 (en) * | 2006-03-06 | 2008-02-27 | August Hitzbleck Söhne GmbH | Bracket clip |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |