Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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(23 6703. I )
1
n~lN~cm c>Lrri
TECHNICAL FIELD
(0001] This invention relates generally to nnmtin grids for sash window
assemblies and
hare speci~.cally to a nnmtin clip for positiuning the grid within a sash
window.
BACKG120UND OF frl!=.INVENTION
[000] Double hung window assemblies typically include a pair of sash windows
slidably
mounted within a master frame. Jn the past, sash WllldOws Were provided with a
~,~rid of muntin
bars, typically made of wood, that separated and held multiple palle5 Of
g1f2S5 Wlthlll a SdSh.
Each pane would be mounted Within the sash in the 5amc plane. Now, double or
multiple pane
windows are provided, otherwise known as insulated or thernro-pane window
assemblies.
These. insulated window assombli~s include a pair of glass panes mounted in
parallel relation to
one another within a sash frame ~ancl separated by a small distance. The panes
are typically
separated by a spacer frame located about a periphery of the panes. Uf course,
insulated or
tlaermo pane windows ate not limited to single or double hung window
arrangements. Rather,
ahoy have a wide range of applications that are well known in the art. Per
instance, double pane
windows may be incorporated in doors, picture windows, etc.
[0003] Grids formed by interconnected muntin bars are often installed between
these glass
pani;s of a double; pane or insulated sash window. Typically, these bids are
comprised of
multipic: rnuntin bars arranged in a l,2-id pattern and intercomiected at'
interior intersecting points
by muntin joiners. The grid is then placed between the panes of glass. The
periphery of the
grid is then mounted to the sash frame, or more typically, to a spacer frame
scparat~ing the
panes, by a series of muntin clips. It is understood that the grid colt take a
variety of different
fomns.
[0004] Typically, the muntin bars are of a ttlbular or hollow construCiion and
a portion of
the clip 1S I(:CelvC'd by an end of a muntin liar lpcated at a pzriphery of
the acid. Typically, the
hollow muntin bar receives an extension or bar support of the clip that is
designed to fit tightly
within the hollow muntin bar to effect an interference fit, thereby attaching
the muntin elig to
the muntin bar end. (See FIG. 3) The clip in turn is attached or comieel;ed in
some way to the
spacer frame. An example of a prior art muntin clip is shown in cro3s section
in >;lCr. 3. The
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prior art mtmtin clip I includes a bar support 2, in the form of a tree,
tightly sitting within and
receiv4d by a muntin bar 3.
[0005] Muntin grids, including the bars, joiners and clips of which they are
epmprised,
come iri rtume>~ou5 shapes and sizes. Qne drawback resulting from chic fact i5
that muntin clip
manufactures must design and produce a separate clip to match ouch potential
si~e/shape of
muntin bar available on the Inarlcet and to also snatch with a vari4ty of
sizes of spacer frames.
A conservative estimate is that chore are currently at least IOU muntin clip
designs available on
the market to accommodate the multitude of sizGS and shapes that can be found
in Che available
nnmrin bars. This costs clip mannfachwers, and window manufacturers or
assemblers to incur
l'.OSt$ aSSOCIated with maintaining and othcrwlse dealing with large: and
varied inventories of
muntin clips.
[0006] FIGS. 4-~ show a spacer frame. The spacer fTtymC Typically has a
lateral wall having
a length C, a pair of vertical walls having a height B, and a pair of
shoulders, each having a
length x.. The shoulders are separated lay a distance A. As one might expect,
various window
designs may and do roquire variously sized spacer frames. Typically, a
manufacturer u~il1
adjust the length of the lateral wall C to accommodate window designs having
differing widths
botvveen their multiple panes of glass. Haweve.r, for each different value of
C (length of lateral
or botrtom wall), the height B of the vet~tical wall and the length of tlae
shoulder X remain as
constants. Therefore, as the length C r~fthe tat-oral wall vanes b~twcen the
various required
spacer frame clcaigns, the distance A between the shoulders also varies. This
distance plays a
role in determining whey muntin clip may be used with a particular spacer
frame.
(0007] Accordingly it sari be seen chat there are at least two factors
dictating what typo or
design of mnntin clip may be used in a particular window assembly. First 1s
the eon~kiguration
of the tnuntin bar to tae used. The second factor is the configuration of the
Spacer frame. The
multitude of variations available in both muntin bars and spacer flames
results in the present
existence of at least; 500 different mulnin clip desi~,rns currently being
available. This in tuna
causes clip manufacturers and window assemblers to be burdened with large clip
inveritories.
[000$] The present invention is provided to solve these and other problems.
SLJMMAItY OF THE INVENTIC7N
[0009] The present invention provides a nntntin clip having an overall
flexible support
stnteture that allows the Clip to be connected to a plurality of muntin bars
and spacer frames
having a variety of sizes.
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[0010] According ~U One ~Sp~L't [1f illC inVer1t101n, the muntin clip has a
bar support having a
plurality of Ile~cihle supporC members attached thereto, which are adapted to
contact the
opposed interior walls of the muntin >5ar end and deform in response to such
contact.
[0a11] According to another aspect of the invention, the bar support has a
Iirst set of
Ilexiblo members extending outwardly from the trunk, and a second sc;t of
flexible rnetnbers
attached to the lrurdc and e:~tending in a direction substantially parallel to
the trunk.
[0012] According to another aspect of the invention, tl7e muntin clip leas a
base member
attached to the bar support and having two flexible members forming a flexible
latchinK
structure which is adapted to deform when inserted into the spacer frame.
[0013] According t0 another aSpeCt Qf the 111Ve11t101n, each of the flexible
members has a
cross-tx~ember at the free end and a pair of resilient tabs depending from the
cross-member.
[D01~~ Other features and adv~untages of the invention will be apparent from
the following
speciticarion taken in conjunction with the following drawings.
I3hIl;P DIrSCRIPTION OF THE DRAW11VGS
[0015] To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way of
example,
with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a window ussernbly includinb a muntin grid;
FICi_ 2 is a partial cross sectional view of tltc window assembly of FrG. 1
Oaken along
the line z-?;
FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a prior arl muntin clip;
FTG. 4 is a partial isometric view of a spacer fram4 according to the present
invention;
FIC_'r. 5 is a cross section view of the spacor frame of FIG. 4 taken along
the line 5-5 of
FIG. ~;
FIG. G is a bottom perspective view of a tirst embodiment of a nwntW clip
according to
the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the muntin clip of FIG. G;
FIG. $ is a bottom view of the muntin clip of F1G. 6
FIG. 9 is a side view of the muntW clip of FiG. 6;
FIG. 10 is a fiont elevation view of the muntin clip of FIG. G;
FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the assembly of Uhe muntin
clip of
FIG. G and a muntin bar end (shown partially) and a spacer frame (shown
partially) according to
the present invention;
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FIG. 12 is d broken side view showing the connection between the muntin clip,
the
mutatitt bar end (shown pamally) find the spacer frame (shount partially) of
1~1G. 11;
1~IG. 13 is a broken perspective view of the muntin clip, ire mutttin box end
and the
spacer flame of F1G. 12, the muntin Gar end and spacer tram4 shown partially;
FIG. 14 is a partial plan view of a muntin Clip aCccrrding to the present
invention being
inserted into a muntin bar end;
FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view of a muntin bar end according to the
present
inveritAc~n;
FIG. 1t~ is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a ~nturtin clip
according to the
present invention;
FIG. 17 is a side view of the muntin clip of FIG. 16:
FTG_ 1 ~ is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a munCin clip
acCOrding to the
presW t invet7tion;
FIG. 19 is a side view of the muntin clip of FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fourth c:mbodime~t of a nnmtin clip
according to the
present invention;
FIG. Z 1 is a side view of the muntin clip of FIG. 20;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a muntin clip accordinb
to the
present invention;
FIG. 23 is a side view of the muntin clip of FTG. ?L;
f'1G. 24 is a pers~peclive view of a sixth embodiment of a rrtuntin clip
according to the
present mvenrion;
FIG. 25 is a side view of the muntin clip of FIG. 24;
FIG. 2G is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of a muntin clip
according to the
presentinvention;
FIG. 27 is a schematic view showinb a base of the muntin clip according to the
present
invention being inserted into a spacer frame
FIG. 28 is a partial Cross Sectional view taken alonb lines A-A of FIG. 38,
showing a
muntin clip according to the present invention connected to a muntin bar and
being pushed into
a spacer frame having an opening of near minimum width;
FIG. 29 is a partial cross Sectional view taken alonb lines A-A of 1~IG. 38,
Showing the
muntin clip, muntttl bar, and spacer frame of FIG_ 2$ in an assembled
position;
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FIG. 30 is a partial cross sectional view taken along lines A-A of F1G. 3i5,
showing a
muntin clip according to the presi;n t invention connected to a muntin bar and
being pushed into
a spacer frame having an opening of slllall to inLermedlate width;
FIG- 31 is a partial cross sectional view taken along lines A-A, of F'IG. 3$,
showing the
muntin clip, muntiri har, arid spacer frame of FILr. 30 in an assi;ntblod
position;
FIG. 32 is a partial cross sectional view tal~eri along lines A-A of l~1G. 3$,
showirig a
tnuntin clip aCCOrding to the pr~scnt invention connected to a nnultin Liar
and being pushed into
a spacer frame having an opening of int4rn14diate width;
F1G. 33 is a parrial cross sectional Vlcw talcett along hues A-A of 1;1G. 3~,
showing the
muntin clip, muntin bar, and spacer frame of t~IG. 32 in ari assembled
position;
PIG- 34 is a crass sectional view taken slang lines A-A of FIG- 3 ~, showing a
muntin
clip according w the present invention connected to a nluntin bar and being
puslted into a
spacer trallle haVlllg an opening of intennecliate to large width;
FIG. 35 is a cross sectional view taken clang lines A~A of FIG. 3$, showing
the muntin
clip, muntin bar, and spacer frame of 1~1G. 34 in an assembled position;
FIG. 3G is a crow sectional view taken along lines A-A of FIG. 38, sh~~wing a
muntin
clip according to the present inventinn connected t0 a tllllllt111 bar atld
belnL pushed into a
spacer frame haVlllg an opening of nearly lllaxllnum wldtlz;
FIG. 37 is a cross sectional view tahetl a101r~ 1111C:S A-A of FIG. 38,
showing fhe muntin
clip, muntin bar, and spacer frame of FIG. 3d in an assembled position; and
FIG- 3$ is n front elevation view of a muntin clip according to the present
invention
connecti;d to a tnuntin bar and a spacer frame-
DETATLED DESCRIPTION
[U01G] While this invention is susceptible of embadilnerit in many different
forms, tliere is
shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail preferred
embodiments of the
invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be
considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the inv~ntinn and is not intended to
limit the broad aspect of
the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
[0017] FIG.1 shows a sash window 12 comprised of a top sash rail I G, a base
sash rail 1$
and a pair of vertical sriles 20. Altliough not shown, the sash window 12 may
be mounted,
slidingly or otherwise, within a master frvne, such as, in a single or double
hung window
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C7
arrangement as is well known in the art. t is also understood that other
hardware can be
incorporated into the sash window 12 as is known in flue art.
[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, each sash window 12 also includes a first pane of
glass 24 and a
second pane of Mass 2(~ mounted in parallel relationship to one anoUher within
an interior of the
sash window 12. The first and second panes 24, 2G are spaced by a spacer
assembly 2$ located
at a periphery of the panes ?4, 2G. The spacer assembly 28 comprises a spacer
frune 30 and a
s4al ox sealant 32. The spacer frame 30 is generally tubular with a
rectanbular or square cross
section as seen in FIG. 2. The spacer frame 30 extends a>~ottt the entire
periphery of the first
and second panes 24, 2G. A seal or sealant 32 is applied to an outer n:gion of
the spacer frame
30. When pressed between the first and second panes 24, 2G, the spacer frame
30 forms an air
tight seal betlueen the two panes 24, 2G_
[0019) A muntin grid 3~4 (PIG. 1) is positioned between the first and second
panes of f;Iass
24, ?6. The muntin grid 34 is comprised of a plurality of interconnecting
muntin bars 36. )each
muntin bar 3G has a generally tubular and hollpw construction. Various means
of inter-
conncctin$ the muxztit7 barn 36 are >renown to those of ordinary skill in the
art. The connecting
means are not further described hereuz and any means of connecting or,jolning
the martin bars
3G to one another may be utilized. As can be seen from the figures, the muntin
bars 3G are so
interconnected to farm a 8rid 34 which is positioned between the first and
second panes of glass
Z4, ?Ca. Fxt4nding towards and located at a periphery of zlaC 8rid 34 are a
phtrality of muntin bar
ends 38. It is understood that the grid 34 can take a variety of forlns_
[0020] FIGS. 4-5 depict the spacer Frame; 30. FIG. 4 shows only a pouion of
the length of
the spacer frame 30. It can be seen that the spacer frame is ~rnerally U-
shaped and includes a
lateral wall SG and a pair vfvertical walls 58 extending in the same direction
from the lateral
wall 56. )each vertical wall 58 includes an inwardly extending shoulder GO
located dear an end
of its respectYVe vertical wall 58 distal from the lateral wall SG. The
shoulders 60 are separated
by a distance A, defining an elongated opening 57 in the top of the spacer
frame 30. The
vertical walls S$ each have a height B. The lateral wall SG has a k:ngth C and
the shoulders 60
each have a length X. Spaced along a lenbth of an inner cd8e of the shoulders
60 are a plurality
of notches 62 (FIG. 4) adapted to receive the mount structure 104 of the clip
100, to be
explained. It can be seen that eactl notch 62 00 one shoulder GO is generally
opposed from a
coiTesponding notch 6Z on the other shoulder G0. The; opposCd notches G2 form
a pair of
notches G4. It can also be seen that two notch gaits 64 are usually located in
proximity to one
mother. It is tmderstood that the two notch pairs G4 are but one preferred
embodiment.
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[0021] A typical muntin bar end 3S is shown in FIU. 15, and includes opposed
side walls 37
spaced by a distance W and opposed lateral walls 39 sgaced by a distance T.
haeh muntin bar
end 3S is normally hollow and rectangular (although other shapes are
possible), and has an
interior cavity 40 with interior walls 37a and interior walls 39a funned by
opposed side walls
37 and opposed lateral walls 39 respectivel.y_ Tl7e ir~ttntill bar 3G lnay
have a solid peripheral
st111cnlre or formed from a flat sebmr4nt of material and folded into a
tubular strucirue. In such
conl'agrzration, the muntin bar 3G has an open seam extending along a length
n.f tl'te bar 36_
[0022] A tnuntin clip 100 mounts each rnuntin bar end 38 to the sash window
12, to be
cxplained_ Qne preferred embodiment of the n runtin clip 1 UO according to
thi: present invention
is illustrated in 1~1GS. G-10. teach muntin clip 100 includes a base or base
member 102 and a
bar support lOG. The base 102 is adapted to me>unt the clip 100 to the spacer
hame 3(t, and the
bar support 1 OG is adapted to comrect' the clip 100 t~7 il7e 171Li1rt11r bar
end 38. As explained i11
greater detail below, the base lU2 and bar suppbrt 106 each have flexible
latching or support
structure that enhances the eonneetability cf the nnmtin clip 1L?0 to the
spacer frame 30 and the
muntin bar end 3a.
[0023] The bar support 106 i5 adapted to be inserted in the interior cavity 40
of the hollow
mtlntin bar end 3$ to support the muntin bar w~itlrin the muntin ~zid 34.
Prcfi;rably, the bar
support lOG hts relatively tightly within the muntin bar end 38_ The preferred
embodiment; of
the bar support lOG is shown in PIUS. G-10 and includes a truck 11G extending
from the base
I 02 and a plurality of flexible nmnk members 121 extending from tire tlmk.
Among these
Ilexible mernbers are flexible fingers 1.22 extending outwardly from the trunk
116, and flexible
arnrs 123 extending alongside the trunk 116. The trui~lc 1 t 6 has a first end
118 attached to the
base 102 and a second end 1?0 distal from the base I 02. In the preferred
embodiment, the
trunk 11G also has a central hub 117 from which a plurality of the flexible
members 121 project.
Preferably, the trunk 11G is constructed thickly so that it is sufl'~ciently
rigid to support the
muntin bar 3G. It is further understood that the central hub 117 could be
defined in $lternative
configurations such that in one embodiment, ore flexible fingers 122 extend
from the central
hub l 17, and in another eltabodiment, the flexible 'fingers 122 extend fiom
the flexible arms
123.
[0024] The preferred bar support 106 is shown in F1GS- G,10 and has four
flexible fingers
122 extcmdin~; outwardly from the tnlnk 11G. These flexible fingers 122 can be
considered a
i'irst, second, third, and fourth flexible tnurlc members 121. leach flexible.
finl;er 122 has a fixed
end 124 attached to the tnxnk 116 and a free end 12G extending; outwardly from
the trunk 116.
The fingers 122 are preferably flexible and deflectable, yet resilient. This
structure permits
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
each free end 12G to flex towards and away from the murk 11 G. In the
pr~terred embodiment,
twa flexible fingers 1 Z? extend from the trunk 11G in opposed directions
proximate the second
end 120 of the trunk 11 G, and two flexible finl;ers 122 oxtend in opposed
directions From the
central hub 117 of the trunk 11 G. The Angers 1?2 preferably sxtend at least
an appreciable
distance generally perpendicularly outward from the trtulk 116. and all the
Cm~ers 122
preferably extend within a general plane. Additionally, the fingers 122
preferably extend at
least slightly downward (i.e. t:oward the base IU?), which facilitates flexing
and insertion of the
bar suppolrt IOG llat0 the mlllltlll bar end 3$. When the bar support 10G is
inserted into the
muntin bar end 3$, the lingers 122 contact one pair of the opposed interior
walls 37a of the
munrin bar end 3M and substantially deflect, flexing inwardly and downwardly,
in response to
the contact, as described in ~,~reater detail bolow'. Tlte flexible fingers
1ZZ extend a distance past
the flexible auras 1?3 and generally to an outs~r lateral dimension defined by
base 1C12.
[0025] In alternate embodiments, the' bar support l UG may have a greater or
fewer number
of fingers 122. For example, the bar suppol~ Ci0C5 in FIGS. 24-25 has only two
fingers G22
projecting from the distal end 620 of the ttulal: G 16. Further, the fingers
12Z may be longer or
shorter, as and may extend at a greater or lesser downward angle than those
shown, In addition,
the material used to form the clip 100 can be varled to Control the
deflcetability, resiliency, or
overall flexibility of the flexible members 122,123, In cane preferred
embodiment, the clip 100
is fanned from plastic in an injection-molded proi;css. It is understood that
a variety of other
materials can be utilized.
[002b] The preferred bar support lOG has four flexible arms 123 extending from
the Central
hub 117 a.f the trunk I 16 and alongside the n~lnk 11 G. These flexible arms
123 can be
considered a first, second, third, and fourth flexible trtmk members 121. In
other
embodiments, such as the embodiment 400 shown fu FIGS. 20-21, two of the inns
423 are
attached proximate the distal end 420 of the mnak 416, and two of the arms 423
are attached to
the central hub 417. hl any case, the arms 123 are preferably substantially
parallel to the trunk
I 16, extending a short distance away from the trtulk 116 and then angling
sbarply to rtln nearly
parallel to the wullc 11G. Two of the anus 123 point upward (i.e. away From
the base 1 U2), and
two of the anus 123 point downward (i.e. toward the base 102). In one
preferred embodiment
(FIGS. G-10), two of the arms 123 point toward one of the pairs Of angers 122,
and the other
two arms 123 palm away from one of the pairs of fm~ers 122.
X0027] As may be seen in F1G. 9, a portion of each ann 123 preferably
protrudes out ofthe
central plane occupied by the trulalc 116 and finl;c:m 122, discussed above.
In other wards, a
portion of each arm 123 protntdes in a direction that is n-ansverse to the
directions in which the
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
9
tnmk l lfi and the fingers 122 extend. In the prefewed embodiment, each ann
123 contains a
projection 127 protruding relatively perpendicularly outward from the tip.
Thus, each
projection 127 preferably protrudes in a direction that is transverse to the
directions in which
the truffle 116 and the fingers 122 o:vend. These projections 127 each
preferably contain a
beveled portion 125 faein~; upward (i.G. away .Cram the base 102), to prevent
snagging when the
bsr support 106 is inserted into the nnmtin bar c:nd 3Fs. It: is understood
that the projection and
beveled portion When the bar support 106 is inserted into the muntin bar end
3$, the
projections 122 contact one pair of ills opposed interior walls 39a of the
muntin bar end 38, and
generally not the pair of interior walls 37a contacted by the fingers 122_ In
response to this
contact, thi: arms 123 substantially deflect, flexing inwardly, as described
in ~,~reatcr detail
below.
[402$] Generally, some of the arms 123 have a portion protruding in one
direction and
same of the aims 123 have a portion pronwding in the opposite diri;etion~
creating a balance of
pressure on the interior' walls of the lnutatiit bar end 38. ror reference
purpos~;s, the arms 123
can be divided into "sets" based on the direction in which the respective
projections I27 thereon
project. Generally, as shown with reference to FIGS. 7 and 9-10, the bar
support 106 will have
one sot 123a of arms 123 having forward-facing projections and one scl lZ3b of
arms 123
having rearward-facing projections. In the preferred embodiment, illustrated
in FIGS_ 6-10, the
two arms 123 of each set are located cater-comer fi-om each other. Por
~xatr~ple, with reference
to rIGS_ 7 and 9-10, one set of cater-corner arnis 123a have projections 127
facing forward, and
the other set of cater-corner anus 123b have projections l27 facing rearward.
In other words, in
FIG. 10, if one were to schematically draw or envision a line between the
projections I27 o~the
arms 123a of the first set and a separate Iine between the projections 127 of
the anus I23b of
the second set, the two lines world tend to form an 'X'. The embodiments
200,400 shown in
FIGS. 1G-17 aiad FICTS. 20-21 contain a sitxiilar arrangement. In the
emboditneuts 300,500
shown in F~GS_ 18-19 and FICTS. 22-23, the arms 323,523 of each set are
located adjacent each
other. The set of arms 323a,523a located closest to the base 302,502 have
forward-facing
projections 32.7,527, and the set ofarms 323b,SZ3b located farthest from the
base 302,502 have
rearward-facing projections 327,5?7. Additionally, the arms 123 are preferably
slightly offset
with respect to each other in the direction of such protrusion, to allow ample
room for the amps
123 to flex. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, the arms 123a of the
first set are offset to
one side of the tntnk 116, and the arms 123 b of the second set are offset to
the opposiee side of
the trunk 1 I f~.
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1U
[DD29j In an altemxte embodiment, the arms 123 may be connected to tltc
wfingers 122,
rather than existing as a separate structure. Thus, the foyers 122 may contain
flexible structure
that is adapted to contact both sets of interior walls 37a,39a of the muntin
bar end 3$ to stabilize
and support the tnuntitt liar end 3$. The arrangements of flexible trunk
members 121, such as
the flexible arms 123 and flexiblo rngi;rs 122 can b4 considered :~ means for
bracing the two
pair's of opposed inner walls 37a,3Oa of the muutin bar end 3E.
[0030] Tlre prefewed base 102 is illustrated in FIGS. G-10 and includes a bar
stop 10$ and a
plug 109 positioned proximate the bar support 106. The bar stop 10$ is
desi~med to abut the
muntin bar eud 3$ when the bar support 24G is inserted therein, in order to
prevent the
remainder of the base 142 from entering the trtuntin bar end 38. It is
preferably wid4r than the
widest portion of the bar support l OG. The plug 109 connects the base 102 to
the bar support
lOG anal is also adapted to be inserted into the muntin bar i;nd 3$.
[0031] The preferred base 102 lra$ $ Celltral b10C1C 11 l and also has a mount
structure 10d.
drat includGS a means for conni;eting tlv: base 14? to a variety of different
spacer frames 30.
The mount structure 104 preferably includes a flexible latch snmchue 110
attached to the
central block 111, and is generally Cunsidi;r4d to be connected to the base
102 of tEre muritin
clip 100. Tlle flexible latel7 structure 110 is adapted to flex inward when
the base 142 is
inserted into the spacer frame 30, and to connect the muntin clip 100 to the
spacer frame 30, as
described below. The flexible latch stn~cture 110 preferabl y includes two
flexible members 17 2
that i;ngage the spacer frame 34, one extending from each sici~ of the central
block 111. The
flexible members 11 Z preferably are attached at the bottom of the central
block 111 and curve
or ankle upward and out4vard, forming a U-shape or a V-shape when viewed from
the side
{FIG. 9). This shape facilitates insertion of the base 102 into the spacer
frame 30. In other
embodiments, the llexibie members 112 may be attached at another point on tile
base 102. Por
example, in one embodiment the flexible members 112 are attached proximate the
top of the
central block 111 and trove downward and then back upward, so that each
flexible member
forms a U~shape or a V-shape. It is understood that the flexible members 112
are flexible with
respect to both the base 102 and the bar support 10G, and are flexible in
either direction, i.e.,
inwardly and outwardly from the base 102 and bar. suppon ! 0G_ Additionally,
the flexible
members 112 are able to engage the spacer frame, preferably by latching onto
the shoulders GO
of the spacer frame 30. As illustrated in FIGS. G-10, the flexible member 112
preferably has a
sirrl;le flexible stem 115 connecting the cross-member 1 i3 and resilient tabs
114 to the central
block 111. In other embodiments, the flexible member 112 may have more than
one flexible
stem 115. It is understood that the benefits of the invention can be observed
witli a single
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
flexible member 112, although a pair of t7exible members 112 is prc;ferri:d.
The; fh:xible
members 112 preferably each have two resilient tabs 114 thereon, as well as a
cross-member
113 extending a~~rass the free end 11 ?a of the fluxilal~ rneml7er 112.
[003Z] The preferred resilient tabs 1 1:1 are Zest illusuated in FIGS. G-I0,
and are the
preferred mechanism for latching of the flexible member 112 to the spacer Name
30. Ln the
preferred embodiment, each flexi>ale memlaer 112 has a pair of resilient tabs
114 attached at the
free c;nd l lZa of the flexible member 112 that face along the direction of
the cross-member 113
and the fingers 1Z2, as best illusu-ated in FIGS. 8 and 10. Each tab I 14
preferably depends
ti'om the flexible member 112, but has an upturned pat~tion 114a angling
outwardly and back
toward the cross-rnemh~r 113. This orientation allows the tabs 114 to latch
atno the sides of the
notches 62 in the shoulder C~0 of the spacer name 30, as Shawn in PTCTS. 12,
29, 31, 33, 35, and
37. Additionally, as shown in rIGS. $ and ~, the upturned portion 114a of each
tab 114 is
angled, WhlCh S4'IVGS at least a dual function. hirst, the angling permits the
tab 1.14 to slide
more easily into the slot 62 Evhen the ease lOZ is inserted into thc; 3paci:r
frame; 30, as illustt'ated
in FIGS. ?b, 30, 32, 34, and 3(i. second, the upturned portion 114a also
angles so that the tab
114 becomes wider as the upturned portion 114a aphroachcs thi: crass..meml5er,
allowing for a
larger latching surface, which in turn a110~.~~s tile Ilexible men'ther 112 to
latch onto a wider
variety of spacer frames 30. Generally. the tabs 114 ari; considered to be
attached to the
flexible member 112. Tlie resilient tabs I 14 in the prrferted embodiment
depend from the
cross-member 113, but may be differently posiuon4d on the tease 102_ Futrther,
a portion of the
cross-member 113 preferably hangs over the upturned portion I 14a of'eaeh tab
114 to create a
more secure latching action_ However, in some embodiments, the tabs 114 hang
frtvly from the
ouCer edges of the flexi171e member 112 with no crogg~member 113 extending
over tha top.
[0033] Additionally, the tabs 114 may be configured or oriented differently_
As shown in
one preferred embodiment, the tabs 114 arc: preferably oriented to face in a
direction transverse
to the flexible lnc:mber 11Z, and along the direction of the cross-member I
I3. In other words,
the resilient tabs 114 face generally in the same direction as the flexible
fingers 122. Further,
each pair of tabs 114 on a particular flexible member 112 preferably face away
from each other.
However, the tabs 114 may be turned 90 degrees to face more outwardly, in the
direction of
flexing of the flexible members 112. Thus, the resilient tabs 114 would face
in the same
direction as the projections 1Z7. 5ti11 further, the tabs 114 may face
inwardly along the
direction of the cross~member, so that the tabs 114 of each pair face each
other, as opposed to
faCirig outwardly and away from each other (FIG. 10). The latching structure
110 may contain
a greater dg smaller number of tabs 1 I4, and the tabs 114 may be shaped
differently_ For
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
1Z
example, the angled, upturned portion 114a may not be nocessaiy irr all
embodiments. In other
embodiments, the latch stntcntre 110 may have no resilient tabs 114, and rtray
latch onto the
spacer flame 30 by a di:Cfercnt method. Fnr example, the flexible member 112
could cooperate
with a shouldi;r portion G7 (Pi(_r. 4) of the spacer frame 30 That is
positioned l.~ctvreen the
notches 62. Thi; fl4xible menther 112 may also include a tab that engages an
utrderside of the
shoulder portion Ci7.
[0034] As shown in 1~1GS. 1i-10, the tabs 114 and cross-members 113 are
positioned at a
distance from the bar support 1 OG and the base 102, due to the out4vardly-
extending nahtre Of
the flexible members 112. Also, due to the flexible naftue of the flexible
members 11Z, the tabs
114 and the cross-members 113 are moveable with respect to both the bar
support 106 and the
central block 111 of the base 102. Furth4r, l~~cause both the tabs 114 and the
llcxible arms 112
can flex or pivot independently and in separat4 dircctior~s, the tabs 114 art
considc;rvd to be
flexible and moveable in at least two directions.
[0035] To assemble a sash w~indo~~ 12 incorporating a muntin grid 34 utrhzmg a
clip 100
and muntin bar 36 according to the present invention. the spacer assembly 28
is formed
according to any tnetlrod currently larown in tht art. Then the nnintin ~,u.Zd
34 is assembled by
joining a plurality of muntin bars 3G to one another to form a grid shape.
Typically, the grid is
generally rectangular, but it is understood that the ~ic'l may take other
shapes as well. Then a
muntin clip 100 is attached to the grid 34 at each nruntin bar end 3$ located
near a periphery of
the overall grid 34.
(0036] FIG. 11 illustrates the way in which the clip 100 is connected to the
nruntin bar end
3$, urdicated by the arrows. To attach the clip l00 to the muntin bar end 38,
the bar support
106 is inserted into the generally hollow mttntin tsar end 3$. 'the bar
support 106 will be
typically inserted hrto the nmntin bar end 38 until the entire plug 109 is
substanvally located
within the end 38. When the bar support; 106 is irtserCed into dre muntin bar
end 3$, the angers
122 contact one pair of the opposed interior walls 37a of the n~mntin bar end
3$ and
substantially deflect, flexing inwardly and downwardly, in response to the
contact. r.ilcewise,
and as shown in FIG. 12, the projections 123 contact the other pair o .f the
ppposed interior
walls 39a of the muntin bar end 3$. In response to this contact, the arms 123
substantially
defiled, flexing inwardly. The dow:~ward angle of the fingers 122, as well a5
the beveled
portions 125 near the projections 127, allow tire bar support 106 to slide
more easily into the
muntin bar end 38. Thus, there is substantial deflection of the flexible
fingers 122 and the
flexible arms 124 providing an entranced fit as opposed to the ht provided by
prior an muntin
clips such as shown in )SIG. 3. The arms 123 and filrgers 122 provide a firm
connection with
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
13
the tnuntin bar 3G that resists twisting or bending of the muntitr bar 3G, as
descrtlaed in greater
detail below.
[0037] FIG. 11 also illustrates the way in which the clip 100 is connected to
the spacer
frame 3 S, indicated by the arrows. Additionally, FIGS. 28, 30, 32, 34, and 36
illustrate the base
102 being inserted into a variety of different spacer flames 30a, 30b, 30c,
30d, 30e and FIGS.
29, 31, 33, 35, and 37 illusn-ate the base 102 after com~ection to these
spacer frames 30a, 30b,
30c, 30d, 30e. To attach the clip 100 to the muntin bar end 3S, the base is
inserted into the
opening 57 in the spacer frame 30_ The shoulders GO contact the flexible
members 112 of the
latch stmcmre 110 and cattle the flexible members I 12 to flex inwardly, shown
in 28, 30, and
32. As the base 102 is pushed downward, the f.Icx,ibIe metrtbers 112 continue
to flex until the
resilient tabs 1 l4 slip completely into lho notch4s 62 and engage the
Shoulders GO of the spacer
frame 30, shown in P1GS. ?9, 31, 33, 35, and 37. At that point, the flexible
members 112
get7erally snap slightly 1'sck outward. Preferably, the resilient tabs 114
also flex inward slightly
as the vase 10? is inserl4d, until the point that the tabs 114 clear the
shoulder GO of the spacer
frame 30. It is understood then that the resi)ietlt tabs 1 l4 engage the
underside surfaces of the
shoulder 60 proximate the notches G2. l~h~ Cr0$S 117111117~rS 1 13 contact
tl7e top of the shoulders
G0 to ensure that the base 102 cannot he inserted too far into the spacer
frame 30, as shown in
FIGS. 12-13. Altematc;ly, the latch s~mccure 110 may have no resilient tabs
11.4, and rnay have
n different stmctttre to latch onto or otherwise engage the spacer frame 30.
Particularly, the
latch structure 110 nzay have no component that slips into notches G2 in the
spacer frame 30,
and rrtay simply latch onto the shoulders b0 by other interference or latching
stn~ctures.
[0038] FIGS_ 12-13 and 38 illustrate the assembled muntin bar end 38, ruunun
clip 100, and
spacer frlrrre 30. The fingers 1?? are in contact with the interior side walls
37a and are
substantially deflected or deformed downward and inward in response to such
contact.
h,ihewise, the arms 123 are in contact with the interior lateral walls 39a,
and are substantially
de'Ilected or deformed inward in response to such contact. fhe resilient
nature of the f~rtgers
122 and the arms 123 results in pressure being exeued on the interior side
walls 37a,39a of the
muntin bar end 38 by the fingers and anus 123, securing the muntin bar end 3$
to the clip 100
and stabilizing the muntin bar 3G. Further, the pressure exeirted on the
lateral walls 39a by the
flexible arms 123 resists torque apgli~d to the muntin bar 36. Two of the arms
123 would tend
to oppose rotation of the muntin bar end 3 $ in one direction while the other
two awls 123
would tend to oppose rotation of the nnultin bar end 38 in an opposed
direction ofrotstion_ In
other words, the arms 123 provide four-point opposed contact with the itlner
lateral walls 39a of
the muntin bar end. Additionally, when the base I02 is inserted into the
spacer frame, portions
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
I4
of the shoulders GO of the spacer frame are positioned bettveen the resilient
tabs 114 and thir
cross-members 11.3. Tlte resilient tabs 114 are preferably each received in
one of the notches
62 on the shoulders GO of the spacer name 30. This alTangi:ment allows the
base 102 to latch
onto the spacer f7tame arid allows the clip 100 to hold, support, position,
and stabilize the mtlntin
bar 3G. Also, the arrangement of the tabs 114 and the notches G2 prevents the
clip 100 frottt
moving or sliding, on the spacer frami:. however, other strictures can be
employed to prevent
such movement in place of ~:he tabs 114 and notches G2.
[0039] It can be seen that the flexible nah~re of the Fngers 122 will fimction
to maintain the
bar 3G centered about the bar support lOC specif canny and the overall clip
I00, gwerally. The
ilexible nature of the fingers 1?2 also permits th4 clip 100 to accommodate
muntin bar ends 38
having any width W within a wide range of widChs. So long as the lnuntin bar
end 38 has a
sufficient width W to permit the bar support lOG t:a b4 inserted into the end
3$, and so long as
the free e.nrls 12G are able to engage the opposed side walls 37, the clip 100
play be used with
that particular muntin bar 3C;, Thi; width W may range from the Cllstance W 1
between free ends
126 of the fngers 122 in an untdexed position and the distance W? between the
Cree el7ds 12G in
a fully flexed position as schematically represented in 1 lti. 14. The Wldth
Of the ottcermost
edges of the arms 123 may also limit the 111117111111111 S1L,4 Of suitable
muntin bar ends 3$. In this
way, the overall bar support stntcnlre 10G 111Ch1d111~ the :(Icxible lingers
12Z permits the clip 100
to accommoclatt a variety of muntin bar ends 38, as previously stated.
Similarly, the resilient
nature of the arms 123 permits the clip I 00 to accommodate muntln bar ends 3$
having a
vaxiety of thiclaiesses T. Accordingly, and unlike with previously lmown
clips, one clip 100
according to the present invention may be used wil:h any number of muntiu bar
36 designs.
[0010] Similarly, the latch stmcttwe or mechanism 11U functions to maintain
the bar 3B in
position on the spacer $ame 30, and the flexible nature of the latch smlcture
110 permits the
clip 100 to acconnnodate spacer frames with openings 57 of fury width A within
a range of
widths. So Iong as the shoulders GO of the spacer frame have a sufficient
distance A between
them to permit the base 102 to be inserted into the spacer frame 30, and so
long as the ands of
the latch mechanism 110 are able to engage the shoulders G0, the clip 100 may
be used with that
particular spacer fratre 30. The width A may range from the distance A'
betwcCn the ends of
the flexible members 112 in an unllexed position and the distance A" between
the ends of the
flexible members in a fully flexed position, as shown in FIG. 27. 1 IGS. 2$
and 29 illustrate the
insertion of the base 102 into a spacer frame 30a having an opening of nearly
minimum width
A. The flexible members 112 are deflected a great deal in F1G. 2$, and have
little room to flex
farther inward. It is understood that a separate stop stl~.leture could be
incorporated into the
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
t~
Ease 102 to prevent Ile;xion of the Flexible mc;mhers 112 as desired. FIGS. 30
and 3l illustrate
the il>aserlion of the base 102 into a spacer frame 30b having an opening of
small t0 intermediate
width A. FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate the insertion of the base lUZ into a
spacer frame 3Uc having
an opening of intermediate width A. F1GS. _i4 and 3 S illustrate the insertion
of the base 102
into a spacer frame 30d having an opening 0:f itltermediatc to large width A.
FICaS. 3G and 37
illustrate the insertion of the base into a spacer frame. 3Ue ltaving an
opening of nearly
maximum width A. Th4 flexible m4mbers 11~ aIC' 114:1r1y 7T1 the Lllltlexed
pOSlt1011 lIl FIG. 37,
representing nearly the largest width A over which the latch structure 110 eau
spar.
[004x] Accordingly, and tuLlihe with previously known clips, one clip 100
according to the
present invention rrlay be used with any number of spacer frame 30 designs.
Also, a plurality
of similarly structured clips 100 may be used to cover an even broader range
of spacer frame 3U
designs. In one pr4fc:rrod embodiment, the muntin clip 1. ()Q can be used with
spacer frames
having a lateral wall dimension C from generally 0.2 inches to 0.9 inches. It
is fiLrther
understood that spacer frames 3U having a valyin~; width A, such as if the
length of the
shoulders GO changes. Cxenerally, it is understood that the clip 100 can be
consuutcted.to be
used in spacer frames 30 of practically infinite sites. As such, c;ach Clip
100 can he used with a
plurality of different sized spacer frames 30 and tnltlltill liars 3G bocattse
~~Fthe flexible support
or latching structure employed.
[0042] Generally, tile lnuntin ~,rrid 34 is assemhli;d by fu;st attaching a
muntin clip 100 to
each muntin bar end 3S, and then attacllinb the overall muntin grid 34 to the
spacer dame 30.
This is accomplished by orienting the overall grid 34 such that each mulltin
clip lUU attached to
the grid 34. is located near one set of t'.vo notch pairs G4. The clips 100
are then inserted irita the
spacer frame 30. It is understood that in certain embodiments and
modiFeations, this order
could be reversed. pace each of the mutltin clips 100 of eRCh nntntin bar end
38 is attached to
the spacer frame 30 in this manner, the overall did 34 is positioned within
the plane defined by
the spacer frame 30. The panes 24, 26 may be assembled to the spacer frame
assc;mbly 28,
which in tum nlay bo installed into a sash window 12 in any known manner.
[0043 A second preferred embodiment of a nnmtin clip accordinb to the present
invention
is shown in FIGS. 16-17 and generally designated with the reference numeral
200. Each of the
above described feantres, benefits, assembly and operation o:f the clip 1 UU
shown in FIGS. 6-10
is similarly applicable to the clip 200 of FIGS. 1 G~17, and is referred to
using reference series
Zxx, rather tlmtl lxx, which is used to reference; the f. rst embodiment shown
in FIGS. 6-I0. A
difference between the clip 200 in PIGS. 16-17 and the clip 100 shown in FIGS.
6-10 is that the
Clip 200 of the second embodiment is shorter in length and has slightly
greater thickness in the
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
1 (7
tntnlc 216, fngers 222, arms 223, and flexible membera Zl 2 than the clip 100
of thv first
embodiment. Additionally, two of the arms 223 of the clip 200 of the second
em>aodiment have
angled pouions 225 b~nealh tl7e adjacent fingers 222 to allow the fingers 222
a greater freedorin
of movement before thc;y contact the arms 223. The central huh 217 is also a
more pronounced
structure.
[0044) A third preferred embodiment of a muntin clip according to the present
invention is
Sh4W11 n1 FIGS. 1$-1~ and generally desig~tated with tyre reference nmneral
300. Each of the
abo~TC described featuros, benr:bts, assembly and operarion of the clip 100
shown in 1~IGS. 4-10
is applicable to the clip 300 of FIGS_ 1~~19, attd is refetTeCl to ttsing
reference series 3xx, rather
than lxx. A difference b4tw~:en the clip 300 and the clip 100 shown in PIGS. G-
10 is in the
Arran getnent of the amts 323. In the third clip enWodimenL 300, as described
above, chc; flexible
arms 323 of each set are located adjacent earl other, rather than cater-
corner. The set of aims
323a located closest to the base 302 have forward-facing pxojectioa~s 327, and
the set of arms
323b locatc;d fartl2est from the base 30Z have rearward-facing projections
327. Other
components are Sul)stal7tlally identical. It is understc~nci when the clip 300
is iriserted into the
rnuntin bar 36, the arms 323a having the fot~,vard-facing projections 327
engage onG wall oftlae
muntin bar 36, and the arms 3231 laving the rearward-facing pr~jectio115 327
engage art
opposite wall of the muntin bar 36 as can he understood fiom tho pr4vious
description above.
Thus, one set of arms 323a provide a force in one direction and one set of
arms provide a farce
in another direction.
[0045) A fourth preferred embodiment of a muntin clip according to the present
invention is
shown in FIGS. z0-21 and generally desiyated with the referenec numeral 400.
Each of the
above dcscxibed features, benefits, assembly and operation of the clip 100
shown in FIGS. G-10
i5 similarly applicable to the Clip 400 if. PJGS. ?0-21, and is referred to
using reference series
4xx, rather than lxx. A difFerence bctwrezt the clip 400 and the clip 100
shown in FIGS. G-10
is in the arrangement of the arms 423. In the fourth clip embodiment 400, two
of the arms 423
are attached to the tnuilc 416 praximaG: the distal end 420 of the trunk 416,
thus depending
downwardly, and two of the arms 423 are attached to the central hub 417, also
dependiing
downwardly. In cantrasc, W the first embodiment 100, all four arms 123 are
attached to the
trunk 116 praximatv the Central hub 117. The projections 427 are also arranged
an sets of the
anus 423 to provide opposing forces. ~ihu~r eomponeots are substantially
identical.
[004GJ A fifth preferred embodiment of a muntin clip according to the present
invention is
shown in FIGS. 22-23 and generally designated with the reference numeral 500.
Each of the
above described features, benefits, assembly and operation of the clip 100
shown 1n PIGS_ G-10
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
17
are applicable to tha clip 500 of );1GS. 22-23, and is referred to using
reference series Sxx,
rather than Ixx. 11 difTerences between the clip 500 and the clip 100 shown in
PIGS. G~10 is in
the arrangement of the arms 523, In the fifth clip embodiment 500, rivo of the
arms 523 are
attached to the nlnrl: SIG proximate the distal end 520 of the tnulk S 1G, and
depend
downwaz~dly, and W o of the arms 523 are accached to the central hub 517 and
depand
dovmwardly, similarly to the l:ollrth Chp en71?Odln'1e17t '-~0O deSCrlbBd
above. Additionally, in the
fifth clip embodiment 500, as described above, the arms 523 of each set are
located adjacent
each other, rather than cater~corner. Tlte set o:f an»s 523a located closest
to the base 502 have
forward-facing projections 527, and the s4t of arms 5231a located fauhest
ti~om the base SOZ
have reawatd-facing projections 527. Tlle projections 5?7 of the sets of arms
523 pravide
opposing forces. Other components are substantially identical.
[UU47J Another embodiment of a muntin clip according to the present invention
is shown in
FIGS. 2~-25 and generally designated with the rcferencc numeral G00_ Most of
the above
described feattwes, benefits, assembly and operation o.f the clip 100 shown
i.n fIGS. G=10 are
applicable to the clip G00 of FIGS. Z.~-2 5, and are referred to using
reference series Gxx, rather
than lxx. A difference between the sixth clip embodiment GOU and the clip 100
shoum in FIGS.
G-IU is that the bar support GUG ofthe clip (i00 contains only two fingers
GZ2, which are located
proximate the distal end G20 of the trunk G 1 G and are angled fairther
downward than the fingers
122 of the first clip embodiment 100. Additionally, the: rngers G22 have
rounded ends G2G,
unlike the fingers 123 of the first enibodiment IUO. hurlher, the: sixth clip
embodiment G00
contains no flexible anus extending along the tmnk G 1 G that project
transversely to the trluik
G 1 G and the fingers G 22.
[0U4$) Still another embodiment of a muntin clip according to the present
invention is
shown in FIG. 2G and generally designated with the reference numeral 700. Most
of the above
described features, benefits, assembly and operation of the clip 100 shown in
FIGS. G~10 ate
similarly present in the clip 700 oFFIG. 2G, and are referred to using
reference series 7xx, rathc,~r
than lxx. Like the sixth clip embodiment 600, a difference between the seventh
clip
embodiment 700 and the clip 100 shown in FIGS. G-10 is that the bar support
70G of the clip
700 contains only two finders 722, which are located proximate the distal end
720 of the trunk
71G and are angled farther downward than the fingers 122 of the first clip
embodiment 100.
Additionally, the fingers 722 have rotirided ends 72G, Iike the; fmf;ers GZZ
of the sixth
embodiment 600, but unlike the fingers 123 of the first embodiment 100.
However, unlike the
sixth embodiment G00, the seventh clip embodiment contains flexible anus 723
projecting in
the carne cater-corner arrangement as the anus i23 of the first clip
embodiment 100.
CA 02529909 2005-12-09
1 ~i
[0049] Each of the alternate embodimc:-rtcs of the clip 200, 300, X00, 500,
G00, 700 is used
and assemLled with the rnuntin bar end 38 and spacer fianle 30 in the manner
described above
with respect to the first clip exnl~odiment 100.
[ODSD] '1 he flexible components of tile bar support of the muntin clips
descrived above
permit a single clip to be connected to any of a variety of different mttntiit
bars having a variety
of different dimensions and conf burations. Similarly, the flexible latch
structure of the base
permits a single clip to be connected to any of a variety of different spacer
.frames hamng a
variety of different dimensions and confi~mrations, and having openings of a
variety of different
widths. Tllus, with the muutin clips as described above. the mtmber of
differently-sized rnuntin
clips can be drastically reduced. This reduces inventory c«sts, additional
tooling costs, and
other costs associated with having to manufacture and store a large. numlaer
of differently sized
muntin clips. In addition, the number of spacer frame assemblies can be
reduce~l_
[0051] While the: specific cmbadiments and various details tltc:r4of haue been
illustrated az~d
described, numerous modifications come to mind without signif candy departing
from the spirit
of Lhe invention and the scope ofprotection is only limited by the following
claims.
