full-text |
print |
pdf |
permalink |
Inventors
Reiter, Howard J.
Application #
421222
Filed
Apr-23-2003
Published
Jan-4-2005
Current US Class
024/303
International Classes
A44B 021/00
Field of Search
24/66.1 24/303 24/114.2 24/658 24/683 24/684 24/686 24/689 24/691 248/206.5 292/251.5 335/285 411/501-503
Assignee
Lodestone Fasteners, LLC (Woodbridge, CT)
Examiners
Sandy; Robert J.
Attorney, Agent or Firm
Cooper & Dunham LLP
US Patent References
| 4204300 |
|
Fastener for garme... |
|
| 4265002 |
|
Magnetic fastening... |
|
| 4480361 |
|
Clasp utilizing attr... |
|
| 4748727 |
|
Snap fastener device |
|
| 4779314 |
|
Magnetic fastener |
|
| 4941236 |
|
Magnetic clasp for... |
|
| 4991270 |
|
Magnetic lock clos... |
|
| 5142746 |
|
Fastener means |
|
| 5722126 |
|
Magnetic snap fast... |
|
| 5933926 |
|
Magnetic snap fast... |
|
| 5983464 |
|
Magnetic fastener |
|
| 6170131 |
|
Magnetic buttons a... |
|
| 6226842 |
|
Waterproof, washa... |
|
Referenced by:
View Backward References
Other References
U.S. Appl. No. 10/421,262, Reiter.
Citation
Cite This Patent
More From Subclass 303
More From Class 024
|
Abstract
An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting two pieces of material at any one of a number of possible positions. There are a number of stems attached to one plate and a number of magnets attached to another plate. Any one of the stems fits into a hole in any one of the magnets to connect the two sections of the fastener and hence the two pieces of material. Alternatively, there are a number of magnets attached to one plate and a number of magnets attached to another plate, oriented so that every one of the magnets on the first plate is attracted to every one of the magnets on the second plate.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections, each positive magnetic snap section having
a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a negative magnetic snap section; and
a first magnet having a positive side and a negative side, said positive side facing the same direction as the first snap face;
(b) a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections, each negative magnetic snap section having
a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a positive magnetic snap section; and
a second magnet having a positive side and a negative side, said negative side facing the same direction as the second snap face;
(c) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means adapted for attachment to the first surface, and at least one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections has a second attachment means adapted for attachment to the second surface; and
(d) wherein any one of said positive magnetic snap sections is attracted to and connectible with any one of said negative magnetic snap sections to attach the first and second surfaces, further comprising:
a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each positive magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate, and
a second base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each negative magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the second base plate and each second attachment means is connected to the second side of the second base plate,
(e) wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first base plate holes and the second base plate defines a plurality of second base plate holes,
each positive magnetic snap section further comprising a first stem extending through a corresponding one of the first base plate holes, and
each negative magnetic snap section further comprising a second stem extending through a corresponding one of the second base plate holes.
2. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 1, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first pair of legs, and each second attachment means comprises a second pair of legs.
3. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 2, wherein each first pair of legs is mounted to the second side of the first base plate by the first stem of one of said positive magnetic snap sections, and each second pair of legs is mounted to the second side of the second base plate by the second stem of one of said negative magnetic snap sections.
4. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 1, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first attachment washer connectible to the first stem of one of said positive magnetic snap sections, whereby the first surface is held between the first attachment washer and the second side of the first base plate, and each second attachment means comprises a second attachment washer connectible to the second stem of one of said negative magnetic snap sections, whereby the second surface is held between the second attachment washer and the second side of the second base plate.
5. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 1, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first rivet cap connectible to a collapsible section of the first stem of one of said positive magnetic snap sections, whereby the first surface is held between the first rivet cap and the second side of the first base plate, and each second attachment means comprises a second rivet cap connectible to a collapsible section of the second stem of one of said negative magnetic snap sections, whereby the second surface is held between the second rivet cap and the second base plate.
6. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of first magnetic snap sections, each first magnetic snap section having
a first snap face adapted to be connectible with
a second magnetic snap section; and
a first magnet having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side, said first magnet positioned with respect to the first snap face so that the first charged side of said first magnet attracts oppositely-charged objects toward the first snap face;
(b) a second magnetic snap section comprising
a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a first magnetic snap section; and
a second magnet having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side, the first charged side of the second magnet having the same magnetic charge as the first charged side of the first magnet and the second charged side of the second magnet having the same magnetic charge as the second charged side of the first magnet, said second magnet positioned with respect to the second snap face so that the second charged side of said second magnet attracts oppositely-charged objects toward the second snap face;
(c) wherein at least one of the plurality of first magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means adapted for attachment to the first surface, and the second magnetic snap section has a second attachment means adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(d) wherein any one of said first magnetic snap sections is attracted to and connectible with the second magnetic snap section to attach the first and second surfaces;
(e) a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each first magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate; and
(f) wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first base plate holes, and each first magnetic snap section further comprises a first stem extending through a corresponding one of the first base plate holes.
7. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections, each positive magnetic snap section having
a first base washer defining a first hole substantially in the center of the first base washer;
a first magnetic ring defining a second hole substantially in the center of the first magnetic ring, the first magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side;
a first non-magnetic cover plate having a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a negative magnetic snap section, the first non-magnetic cover plate defining a third hole substantially in the center of the first non-magnetic cover plate and having a first peripheral flange, the first non-magnetic cover plate being mounted to the first base washer by the first peripheral flange whereby the first magnetic ring is held between the first base washer and the first non-magnetic cover plate and is positioned so that the positive side of the first magnetic ring attracts negatively charged objects toward the first snap face and whereby the first, second, and third holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a first stem extending through the first and second holes and ending within the third hole;
(b) a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections, each negative magnetic snap section having
a second base washer defining a fourth hole substantially in the center of the second base washer;
a second magnetic ring defining a fifth hole substantially in the center of the second magnetic ring, the second magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side;
a second non-magnetic cover plate having a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a positive magnetic snap section, the second non-magnetic cover plate defining a sixth hole substantially in the center of the second non-magnetic cover plate and having a second peripheral flange, the second non-magnetic cover plate being mounted to the second base washer by the second peripheral flange whereby the second magnetic ring is held between the second base washer and the second non-magnetic cover plate and is positioned so that the negative side of the second magnetic ring attracts positively charged objects toward the second snap face and whereby the fourth, fifth, and sixth holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a second stem extending through the fourth and fifth holes and ending within the sixth hole;
(c) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means connected to the first base washer of said positive magnetic snap section by the first stem of said positive magnetic snap section and adapted for attachment to the first surface, and at least one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections has a second attachment means connected to the second base washer of said negative magnetic snap section by the second stem of said negative magnetic snap section and adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(d) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections is attached to the first surface and all of the positive magnetic snap sections are arranged in substantially a straight line, and at least one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections is attached to the second surface and all of the negative magnetic snap sections are arranged in substantially a straight line;
(e) whereby bringing the first snap face of one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections into contact with the second snap face of one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said one positive magnetic snap section and said one negative magnetic snap section and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively;
(f) a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein the first peripheral flange of each positive magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate; and
(g) wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first plate holes whereby the first stem of each positive magnetic snap section extends through a corresponding one of the plurality of first plate holes and the first, second, and third holes of each positive magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with the corresponding first plate hole.
8. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 7, further comprising at least one supplemental stem, said supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of positive magnetic snap sections, said supplemental stem extending through a corresponding supplemental stem hole in the first base plate and attached to the second side of the first base plate, whereby bringing said supplemental stem into contact with the second snap face of one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said supplemental stem and said one negative magnetic snap section and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
9. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections, each positive magnetic snap section having
a first base washer defining a first hole substantially in the center of the first base washer;
a first magnetic ring defining a second hole substantially in the center of the first magnetic ring, the first magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side;
a first non-magnetic cover plate having a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a negative magnetic snap section, the first non-magnetic cover plate defining a third hole substantially in the center of the first non-magnetic cover plate and having a first peripheral flange, the first non-magnetic cover plate being mounted to the first base washer by the first peripheral flange whereby the first magnetic ring is held between the first base washer and the first non-magnetic cover plate and is positioned so that the positive side of the first magnetic ring attracts negatively charged objects toward the first snap face and whereby the first, second, and third holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a first stem extending through the first and second holes and ending within the third hole;
(b) a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections, each negative magnetic snap section having
a second base washer defining a fourth hole substantially in the center of the second base washer;
a second magnetic ring defining a fifth hole substantially in the center of the second magnetic ring, the second magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side;
a second non-magnetic cover plate having a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a positive magnetic snap section, the second non-magnetic cover plate defining a sixth hole substantially in the center of the second non-magnetic cover plate and having a second peripheral flange, the second non-magnetic cover plate being mounted to the second base washer by the second peripheral flange whereby the second magnetic ring is held between the second base washer and the second non-magnetic cover plate and is positioned so that the negative side of the second magnetic ring attracts positively charged objects toward the second snap face and whereby the fourth, fifth, and sixth holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a second stem extending through the fourth and fifth holes and ending within the sixth hole;
(c) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means connected to the first base washer of said positive magnetic snap section by the first stem of said positive magnetic snap section and adapted for attachment to the first surface, and at least one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections has a second attachment means connected to the second base washer of said negative magnetic snap section by the second stem of said negative magnetic snap section and adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(d) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections is attached to the first surface and all of the positive magnetic snap sections are arranged in substantially a straight line, and at least one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections is attached to the second surface and all of the negative magnetic snap sections are arranged in substantially a straight line;
(e) whereby bringing the first snap face of one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections into contact with the second snap face of one of the plurality of negative magnetic snap sections creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said one positive magnetic snap section and said one negative magnetic snap section and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively;
(f) comprising a second base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein the second peripheral flange of each negative magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the second base plate and each second attachment means is connected to the second side of the second base plate
wherein the second base plate defines a plurality of second plate holes whereby the second stem of each negative magnetic snap section extends through a corresponding one of the plurality of second plate holes and the fourth, fifth, and sixth holes of each negative magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with the corresponding second plate hole.
10. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 9, further comprising at least one supplemental stem, said supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of negative magnetic snap sections, said supplemental stem extending through a corresponding supplemental stem hole in the second base plate and attached to the second side of the second base plate, whereby bringing said supplemental stem into contact with the first snap face of one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said supplemental stem and said one positive magnetic snap section and hence the second and first surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
11. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections, each positive section having a first magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side and defining a first hole substantially in the center of the first magnetic ring, and a first stem extending through the first hole;
(b) a first base plate having a first side and a second side and defining a plurality of first base plate holes, wherein the negative side of the magnetic ring of each positive magnetic snap section engages the first side of the first base plate and the first stem of each positive magnetic snap section extends through one of the plurality of first base plate holes;
(c) a first non-magnetic cover plate having a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a negatively charged magnetic snap section, the first cover plate defining a plurality of first cover plate holes and having a first peripheral flange, the first cover plate being mounted to the first base plate by the first peripheral flange whereby each of the first magnetic rings is held between the first base plate and the first cover plate and is positioned so that the positive side of the first magnetic ring attracts negatively charged objects toward the first snap ace and whereby the first hole and the first stem of each positive magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with a corresponding first base plate hole and a corresponding first cover plate hole;
(d) a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections, each negative section having a second magnetic ring having a positive side and a negative side and defining a second hole substantially in the center of the second magnetic ring, and a second stem extending through the second hole;
(e) a second base plate having a first side and a second side and defining a plurality of second base plate holes, wherein the positive side of the magnetic ring of each negative magnetic snap section engages the first side of the second base plate and the second stem of each negative magnetic snap section extends through one of the plurality of second base plate holes;
(f) a second non-magnetic cover plate having a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a positively charged magnetic snap section, the second cover plate defining a plurality of second cover plate holes and having a second peripheral flange, the second cover plate being mounted to the second base plate by the second peripheral flange whereby each of the second magnetic rings is held between the second base plate and the second cover plate and is positioned so that the negative side of the first magnetic ring attracts positively charged objects toward the second snap face and whereby the second hole and the second stem of each negative magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with a corresponding second base plate hole and a corresponding second cover plate hole;
(g) wherein at least one of the plurality of positive magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means connected to the first base plate by the first stem of said positive section adapted for attachment to the first surface, and at least one of the plurality of negative sections has a second attachment means connected to the second base plate by the second stem of said negative section and adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(h) wherein the first base plate is attached to the first surface by at least one first attachment means, and the second base plate is attached to the second surface by at least one second attachment means; and
(i) whereby bringing the first snap face into contact with the second snap face so that any one of the positive sections and any one of the negative sections are substantially aligned creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said first snap face and said second snap face and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
12. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first pair of legs, and each second attachment means comprises a second pair of legs.
13. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 12, each first pair of legs is mounted to the first base plate by the first stem of one of said positive sections, and each second pair of legs is mounted to the second base plate by the second stem of one of said negative sections.
14. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first attachment washer connectible to the first stem of one of said positive sections, whereby the first surface is held between the first attachment washer and the first base plate, and each second attachment means comprises a second attachment washer connectible to the second stem of one of said negative sections, whereby the second surface is held between the second attachment washer and the second base plate.
15. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, wherein each first attachment means comprises a first rivet cap connectible to a collapsible section of the first stem of one of said positive sections, whereby the first surface is held between the first rivet cap and the first base plate, and each second attachment means comprises a second rivet cap connectible to a collapsible section of the second stem of one of said negative sections, whereby the second surface is held between the second rivet cap and the second base plate.
16. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, further comprising at least one first supplemental stem, said first supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of positive magnetic snap sections, said first supplemental stem extending through a corresponding supplemental stem hole in the first base plate and attached to the second side of the first base plate, and said first supplemental stem substantially axially aligned with a corresponding first cover plate hole, whereby bringing the first snap face into contact with the second snap face so that any one of the negative sections is substantially aligned with the first supplemental stem creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said first snap face and said second snap face and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
17. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, further comprising at least one second supplemental stem, said second supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of negative magnetic snap sections, said second supplemental stem extending through a corresponding supplemental stem hole in the second base plate and attached to the second side of the second base plate, and said second supplemental stem substantially axially aligned with a corresponding second cover plate hole, whereby bringing the first snap face into contact with the second snap face so that any one of the positive sections is substantially aligned with the second supplemental stem creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said first snap face and said second snap face and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
18. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 11, wherein the first stem of at least one of the plurality of positive sections has a first stem hole substantially in the center thereof and the second stem of at least one of the plurality of negative sections has a second stem hole substantially in the center thereof.
19. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of first magnetic snap sections, each first section having
a first base washer defining a first hole substantially in the center of the first base washer;
a first magnetic ring defining a second hole substantially in the center of the first magnetic ring, the first magnetic ring having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side;
a first non-magnetic cover plate having a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a second magnetic snap section, the first cover plate defining a third hole substantially in the center of the first cover plate and having a first peripheral flange, the first cover plate being mounted to the first base washer by the first peripheral flange whereby the first magnetic ring is held between the first base washer and the first cover plate and is positioned so that the first charged side of the first magnetic ring attracts oppositely charged objects toward the first snap face and whereby the first, second, and third holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a first stem extending through the first and second holes and ending within the third hole;
(b) a second magnetic snap section having
a second base washer defining a fourth hole substantially in the center of the second base washer;
a second magnetic ring defining a fifth hole substantially in the center of the second magnetic ring, the second magnetic ring having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side, the first charged side of the second magnet having the same magnetic charge as the first charged side of the first magnet and the second, charged side of the second magnet having the same magnetic charge as the second charged side of the first magnet;
a second non-magnetic cover plate having a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a first magnetic snap section, the second cover plate defining a sixth hole substantially in the center of the second cover plate and having a second peripheral flange, the second cover plate being mounted to the second base washer by the second peripheral flange whereby the second magnetic ring is held between the second base washer and the second cover plate and is positioned so that the second charged side of the second magnetic ring attracts oppositely charged objects toward the second snap face and whereby the fourth, fifth, and sixth holes are substantially axially aligned; and
a second stem extending through the fourth and fifth holes and ending within the sixth hole;
(c) wherein at least one of the first magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means connected to the first base washer of that first section by the first stem of that first section and adapted for attachment to the first surface, and the second magnetic snap section has a second attachment means connected to the second base washer by the second stem and adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(d) wherein at least one of the plurality of first magnetic snap sections is attached to the first surface, and the second magnetic snap section is attached to the second surface; and
(e) whereby bringing the first snap face of one of the plurality of first magnetic snap sections into contact with the second snap face of the second magnetic snap section creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said one first magnetic snap section and said second magnetic snap section and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
20. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 19, further comprising a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein the first peripheral flange of each first magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate.
21. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 20, wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first plate holes whereby the first stem of each first magnetic snap section extends through a corresponding one of the plurality of first plate holes and the first, second, and third holes of each first magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with the corresponding first plate hole.
22. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 21, further comprising at least one supplemental stem, said supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of first magnetic snap sections, and said supplemental stem attached to the second side of the first base plate, whereby bringing said supplemental stem into contact with the second snap face of the second magnetic snap section creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said supplemental stem and said second magnetic snap section and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
23. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 22, wherein at least one of the stems of the plurality of first magnetic snap sections, the supplemental stem, and the second stem of the second magnetic snap section has a stem hole substantially in the center thereof.
24. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
(a) a plurality of first magnetic snap sections, each first section comprising a first magnetic ring having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side and defining a first hole substantially in the center of the first magnetic ring, and a first stem extending through the first hole;
(b) a base plate having a first side and a second side and defining a plurality of base plate holes, wherein the second charged side of the magnetic ring of each first magnetic snap section engages the first side of the base plate and the first stem of each first magnetic snap section extends through one of the plurality of base plate holes;
(c) a first non-magnetic cover plate having a first snap face adapted to be connectible with a second, oppositely-charged magnetic snap section, the first cover plate defining a plurality of first cover plate holes and having a first peripheral flange, the first cover plate being mounted to the base plate by the first peripheral flange whereby each of the first magnetic rings is held between the first base plate and the first cover plate and is positioned so that the first charged side of the first magnetic ring attracts oppositely-charged objects toward the first snap face and whereby the first hole and the first stem of each first magnetic snap section are substantially axially aligned with a corresponding base plate hole and a corresponding first cover plate hole;
(d) a second magnetic snap section comprising:
a base washer defining a second hole substantially in the center of the base washer;
a second magnetic ring defining a third hole substantially in the center of the second magnetic ring, the second magnetic ring having a first charged side and a second, oppositely-charged side, the first charged side of the second magnetic ring having the same magnetic charge as the first charged side of each of the first magnetic rings and the second charged side of the second magnetic ring having the same magnetic charge as the second charged side of each of the first magnetic rings;
a second non-magnetic cover plate having a second snap face adapted to be connectible with a first magnetic snap section, the second cover plate defining a fourth hole substantially in the center of the second cover plate and having a second peripheral flange, the second cover plate being mounted to the base washer by the second peripheral flange whereby the second magnetic ring is held between the base washer and the second cover plate and is positioned so that the second charged side of the second magnetic ring attracts oppositely charged objects toward the second snap face and whereby the second, third, and fourth holes are substantially axially aligned;, and
a second stem extending through the second and third holes and ending within the fourth hole;
(e) wherein at least one of the first magnetic snap sections has a first attachment means connected to the base plate by the first stem of that first section and adapted for attachment to the first surface, and the second magnetic snap section has a second attachment means connected to the base washer by the second stem and adapted for attachment to the second surface;
(f) wherein the base plate is attached to the first surface by at least one first attachment means, and the base washer is attached to the second surface by the second attachment means; and
(g) whereby bringing the first snap face into contact with the second snap face so that any one of the first, magnetic sections is substantially aligned with the second magnetic snap section creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said first snap face and said second snap face and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
25. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 24, further comprising at least one supplemental stem, said supplemental stem being located equidistant between a pair of first magnetic snap sections, said supplemental stem attached to the second side of the base plate, whereby bringing the first snap face into contact with the second snap face so that the second magnetic snap section is substantially aligned with the supplemental stem creates a magnetic force which releasably connects said first snap face and said second snap face and hence the first and second surfaces attached to the first and second attachment means, respectively.
26. The adjustable magnetic snap fastener of claim 25, wherein at least one of the stems of the plurality of first magnetic snap sections, the supplemental stem, and the second stem of the second magnetic snap section has a stem hole substantially in the center thereof.
27. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections, at least one of which comprises a first attachment means adapted for attachment to the first surface, and
a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections, at least one of which comprises a second attachment means adapted for attachment to the second surface,
wherein any one of said positive magnetic snap sections is connectible with any one of said negative magnetic snap sections to attach the first and second surfaces,
said adjustable magnetic snap fastener further comprising:
a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each positive magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate, and
a second base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each negative magnetic snap section is positioned adjacent to the first side of the second base plate and each second attachment means is connected to the second side of the second base plate,
wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first base plate holes and the second base plate defines a plurality of second base plate holes,
each positive magnetic snap section further comprising a first stem extending through a corresponding one of the first base plate holes, and
each negative magnetic snap section further comprising a second stem extending through a corresponding one of the second base plate holes.
28. An adjustable magnetic snap fastener for releasably connecting a first surface and a second surface, comprising:
a plurality of charged magnetic snap sections, at least one of which comprises a first attachment means adapted for attachment to the first surface, and
an oppositely charged magnetic snap section comprising a second attachment means adapted for attachment to the second surface,
wherein any one of said charged magnetic snap sections is connectible with said oppositely charged magnetic snap section to attach the first and second surfaces,
said adjustable magnetic snap fastener further comprising a first base plate having a first side and a second side, wherein each of the plurality of charged magnetic snap sections is positioned adjacent to the first side of the first base plate and each first attachment means is connected to the second side of the first base plate,
wherein the first base plate defines a plurality of first base plate holes, and each of the plurality of charged magnetic snap sections further comprises a first stem extending through a corresponding one of the first base plate holes.
Description
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to adjustable magnetic snap fasteners.
2. Description of Prior Art
Magnetic snap fasteners have been used as closures for many years. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,722,126 and 5,933,926, issued to Reiter, entitled "Magnetic Snap Fasteners", relate to magnetic snap fasteners of different configurations. These fasteners comprise a male and a female section which are magnetically coupled at a single position.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,453,294, issued to Morita, entitled "Engageable Article Using Permanent Magnet", as reexamined and confirmed under Reexamination Certificate B1 4,453,294, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,021,891, also issued to Morita, entitled "Magnetic Lock Closure," as reexamined and confirmed under Reexamination Certificate B2 4,021,891, relate to a magnetic closure wherein a solid projection on a first half of the closure engages a solid projection on a second half of the closure, which also contains a toroidal magnet. The Morita '294 and Morita '891 patents essentially describe the same product. Further, British Patent Specification No. 1,519,246, published Jul. 26, 1978, also discloses a magnetic closure. None of these patents for magnetic snap fasteners allow for multiple closed positions. Therefore, a user cannot make tighter or looser the article to which the fastener is attached.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a magnetic snap fastener that has at least two of either or both of its male and female sections, or its positive and negative sections, which when put into contact allow the fastener to be closed at more than one position.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a magnetic snap fastener that allows an article to which it is attached, to be fastened more loosely or tightly.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a magnetic snap fastener which can be easily fabricated for sale at a commercially reasonable price.
To those ends, the instant invention relates to a fastener having either a plurality of female magnetic snap sections or a plurality of male magnetic snap sections so that the male and female sections of the fastener may be fastened at any one of a number of possible positions. Alternatively, the fastener has either a plurality of positive magnetic snap sections or a plurality of negative magnetic snap sections which may be fastened at any one of a number of possible positions. These type fasteners are readily adjustable.
These and other advantages will become apparent from the detailed description and drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable magnetic snap fastener in an open position attached to a shoe;
FIG. 1a is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the magnetic snap fastener of the invention, having two female sections and two male sections, in open position;
FIG. 1b is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the magnetic snap fastener of the invention, having two female sections and one male section, in open position;
FIG. 1c is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the magnetic snap fastener of the invention, having one female section and two male sections, in open position;
FIG. 1d is a cross-sectional view of one female section and one male section of the instant invention;
FIGS. 2a and 2b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring of the first embodiment;
FIGS. 3a and 3b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer of the first embodiment;
FIGS. 3c and 3d are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the first and second base plates of the first embodiment;
FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c, are side views and a plan view, respectively, of the legs of the first embodiment;
FIGS. 5a and 5b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover of the first embodiment;
FIGS. 6a and 6b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stem of the first embodiment;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of one female section and one male section of another embodiment of the instant invention;
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one male section of the embodiment of FIG. 7 attached to a piece of material;
FIGS. 9a and 9b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring of the embodiment of FIG. 7;
FIGS. 10a and 10b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer of the embodiment of FIG. 7;
FIGS. 10c and 10d are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the first and second base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 7;
FIGS. 11a and 11b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover of the embodiment of FIG. 7;
FIGS. 12a and 12b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stems of the embodiment of FIG. 7;
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of one female section and one male section of still another embodiment of the instant invention;
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of one male section of the embodiment of FIG. 13 attached to a piece of material;
FIGS. 15a and 15b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring of the embodiment of FIG. 13;
FIGS. 16a and 16b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer of the embodiment of FIG. 13;
FIGS. 16c and 16d are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the first and second base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 13;
FIGS. 17a and 17b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover of the embodiment of FIG. 13; and
FIGS. 18a and 18b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stems of the embodiment of FIG. 13.
FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of one female section and one male section of still another embodiment of the instant invention;
FIGS. 20a and 20b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring of the embodiment of FIG. 19;
FIGS. 21a and 21b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer of the embodiment of FIG. 19;
FIGS. 21c and 21d are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the first and second base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 19;
FIGS. 22a and 22b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover of the embodiment of FIG. 19;
FIGS. 23a and 23b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the solid stems of the embodiment of FIG. 19;
FIG. 24a is a perspective view showing yet another embodiment of the instant invention, having two positive sections and two negative sections, in open position;
FIG. 24b is a cross-sectional view of one positive section and one negative section of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIGS. 25a and 25b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic rings of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIGS. 26a and 26b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washers of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIGS. 26c and 26d are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIGS. 27a and 27b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic covers of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIGS. 28a and 28b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stems of the embodiment of FIG. 24a;
FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing an alternative version of the embodiment of FIG. 24a having supplemental tubular stems between each of two positive sections and two negative sections.
FIG. 30a is a perspective view showing still another embodiment of the instant invention, having two female sections and two male sections with one cover plate encasing all female sections, in an open position;
FIG. 30b is a perspective view showing an alternative version of the embodiment of FIG. 30a having multiple female sections and one male section;
FIG. 30c is a cross-sectional view of one female section and one male section of the embodiment of FIG. 30a;
FIGS. 31a and 31b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring of the embodiment of FIG. 30a;
FIGS. 32a and 32b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the first and second base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 30a;
FIGS. 33a, 33b, and 33c are side views and a plan view, respectively, of the legs of the embodiment of FIG. 30a;
FIGS. 34a and 34b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover of the embodiment of FIG. 30a;
FIGS. 35a and 35b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stems of the first embodiment;
FIG. 36a is a perspective view showing yet another embodiment of the instant invention, having multiple positive sections encased in one cover plate and multiple negative sections encased in a second cover plate, in an open position;
FIG. 36b is a cross-sectional view of one positive section and one negative section of the embodiment of FIG. 36a;
FIGS. 37a and 37b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic rings of the embodiment of FIG. 36a;
FIGS. 38a and 38b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base plates of the embodiment of FIG. 36a;
FIGS. 39a and 39b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic covers of the embodiment of FIG. 36a;
FIGS. 40a and 40b are a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the tubular stems of the embodiment of FIG. 36a.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIGS. 1 and 1a show one preferred embodiment of the invention in which a plurality of female sections 3 of an adjustable magnetic snap fastener 1 are attached to a first base plate 8 to form female fastener 4, which is attached to a first piece of material 2a, and a plurality of male sections 5 of an adjustable magnetic snap fastener 1 are attached to a second base plate 21 to form male fastener 6, which is attached to a second piece of material 2b. As shown in FIG. 1b, the invention alternatively may have multiple female sections 3 and one male section 5. As shown in FIG. 1c, in another alternative, the invention may comprise one female section 3 and multiple male sections 5. If more than one of each of the female sections 3 and male sections 5 are used, the distance between each consecutive pair of female sections 3 preferably is equal, and the distance between each consecutive pair of male sections 5 preferably is equal to the distance between each of consecutive pair of female sections 3.
Referring to FIG. 1d, one female section 3 and one male section 5 of the first preferred embodiment of magnetic snap fastener 1 are shown separated from one another. Each female section 3 and each male section 5 is adapted so that any female section 3 and any male section 5 may mate so as to form a complete fastener.
Each female section 3 includes a base washer 7 with first side 7a, opposite facing second side 7b and central hole 7c. First base plate 8 has a first side 8a and a second side 8b, and for each female section 3 attached to first base plate 8, there is a corresponding hole 8c through base plate 8 substantially axially aligned with central hole 7c of that particular female section 3. Tubular stem 9 is circular in cross-section and in one embodiment has a central hole 9c. Tubular stem 9 also has a wide diameter section 9a and a narrow diameter section 9b and is insertable into the hole 7c in base washer 7 from base washer first side 7a, and also is insertable into the corresponding hole 8c in first base plate 8 from base plate first side 8a. The distal end of the narrow diameter section 9b is rolled over to affix first side 8a of first base plate 8 adjacent to the second side 7b of base washer 7, separated only by the width of continuous flange 15d described below, and attachment legs 11 adjacent to second side 8b of base plate 8. Desirably, the legs 11 are not rigidly secured so as to allow them to be rotatable with respect to base washer 7. This allows coating solutions to reach all surfaces thereby giving greater corrosion protection.
Magnetic ring 13 is held adjacent to first side 7a of base washer 7 by non-magnetic cover 15, which has a top 15a and a side wall 15b. Flange 15c helps contain magnetic ring 13 in place within the cover 15 and continuous flange 15d holds the cover in place relative to base washer 7. Desirably, continuous flange 15d is used to hold the cover 15 in place, because it is more secure than if discrete prongs or tabs are used to form a peripheral flange. Non-magnetic cover 15 may be made of brass to enhance the appearance of the fastener. Desirably also, flange 15d is continuous about the periphery of cover 15 so that the cover is not easily removable and lies flat against the piece of material. Magnetic ring 13 is toroidal in shape and has a central hole 13a larger than the outside diameter of the wide diameter section 9a of tubular stem 9. Since tubular stem 9 and non-magnetic cover 15 have central holes 9c and 15e, respectively, they are substantially axially aligned with central hole 7c of base washer 7 and corresponding hole 8c of first base plate 8.
Turning now to male sections 5 of magnetic snap fastener 1, it is seen that second tubular stem 19 connects second base plate 21 to attachment legs 23 in a manner similar to that used in connection with each female section 3. Here again, in this embodiment, second tubular stem 19 has a central hole 19a that is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding hole 21a of second base plate 21. The attachment legs 23 desirably are not rigidly secured so that they are rotatable with respect to second base plate 21.
As is clear from FIGS. 1a through 1d, second tubular stem 19 of one male section 5 is insertable into hole 15e of non-magnetic cover 15 of one female section 3. Due to the force of the magnetic ring 13, the male section 5 and female section 3 snap together. Legs 11 and 23 may, of course, be attached to two respective pieces of material 2a and 2b. Thus, the two pieces of material 2a and 2b are attached when one female section 3 and one male section 5 are snapped together.
FIGS. 2a and 2b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring 13. FIGS. 3a and 3b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer 7. FIGS. 3c and 3d show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of both the first and second base plates 8 and 21. FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c show side views and a plan view, respectively, of both the legs 11 and 23. FIGS. 5a and 5b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover 15. FIGS. 6a and 6b show a top view and side cut-away view, respectively, of both the tubular stems 9 and 19. It is a particular feature of this embodiment of the invention that the legs and tubular stems are identical on both the female and male sections of the fastener. If the number of female sections is equal to the number of male sections, both base plates also are identical. This reduces the number of different parts needed to make a complete assembly. The axially aligned holes in the components may serve as a distinguishing feature of products made in accordance with the invention.
It is important that each of the openings are in axial alignment. Thus, when a female section 3 and a male section 5 are magnetically attached to one another, central holes 7c, 9c, 13a, 15e, and 19a of the female section 3 and the male section 5, as well as corresponding holes 8c and 21a of base plates 8 and 21, form a straight path. This path should not be too large in diameter. For example, the diameter should be about 0.006 to 0.125 inch. However, the size of the hole is within the level of ordinary skill in the art.
Another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a female fastener and a male fastener that may be attached to pieces of material using rolled rivets instead of legs. Referring to FIG. 7, one female section 103 and one male section 105 of this preferred embodiment of magnetic snap fastener 101 are shown separated from one another. Each female section 103 and each male section 105 is adapted so that any female section 103 and any male section 105 may mate to form a complete snap fastener. Magnetic snap fastener 101 is a rolled rivet type of fastener.
Each female section 103 includes a base washer 107 with first side 107a, opposite facing second side 107b and central hole 107c. A first base plate 108 has a first side 108a and a second side 108b, and for each female section 103 attached to first base plate 108, there is a corresponding hole 108c through base plate 108 substantially axially aligned with central hole 107c of that particular female section 103. Tubular stem 109 is circular in cross section and has a wide diameter section 109a, a medium diameter section 109b, a narrow diameter section 109c, and a central hole 109d. Tubular stem 109 may be inserted into the central hole 107c from base washer first side 107a and into the corresponding hole 108c in first base plate 108 from base plate first side 108a. The distal end of the narrow diameter section 109c extends outward from first base plate 108 to engage first attachment washer 110, as shown more clearly in FIG. 8 and as discussed below. There are no legs in this embodiment to attach the sections of the fastener to pieces of material. Rather, the sections of the fastener are attached by the rolled rivet connectors.
Magnetic ring 113 is held adjacent to first side 107a of base washer 107 by non-magnetic cover 115, which has a top 115a and a side wall 115b. Flange 115c helps contain magnetic ring 113 in place within the cover 115 and continuous flange 115d holds the cover in place relative to base washer 107. Magnetic ring 113 is toroidal in shape and has a central hole 113a larger than the outside diameter of the wide diameter section 109a of tubular stem 109. In this embodiment, tubular stem 109 and non-magnetic cover 115 have central holes 109d and 115e, respectively, which are substantially axially aligned with hole 107c of base washer 107 and corresponding hole 108c of first base plate 108.
Turning now to male sections 105 of magnetic snap fastener 101 it is seen that second tubular stem 119, including wide section 119a, medium section 119b, and narrow section 119c, is insertable through a corresponding hole 121a of second base plate 121 in a manner similar to that used in connection with each female section 103. Here again, in this embodiment, second tubular stem 119 has a central hole 119d that is substantially axially aligned with corresponding hole 121a of second base plate 121. Moreover, as described in connection with female sections 103, the distal end of narrow diameter section 119c extends outward from second base plate 121 to engage second attachment washer 123, as shown more clearly in FIG. 8 and as discussed below.
FIG. 8 shows one male section 105 attached to a piece of material 125 held between second base plate 121 and second attachment washer 123. As seen in FIG. 8, tubular stem 119 has section 119e rolled over to hold attachment washer 123 in place. Each female section 103 is attached to a piece of material in a similar manner. Thus, the mating of one female section 103 and one male section 105 results in attachment of the two pieces of material.
FIGS. 9a and 9b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring 113. FIGS. 10a and 10b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer 107. FIGS. 10c and 10d show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of both the first and second base plates 108 and 121. FIGS. 11a and 11b show a top view and side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover 115. FIGS. 12a and 12b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of both the tubular stems 109 and 119. Once again, several of these components are identical on the male and female sides so as to provide for easy assembly and to reduce the cost of the finished product.
Still another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises female sections and male sections that may be attached to pieces of material using Kwik-rivet connectors. Referring to FIG. 13, one female section 203 and one male section 205 of this preferred embodiment of magnetic snap fastener 201 are shown separated from one another. Each female section 203 and each male section 205 is designed so that any female section 203 and any male section 205 may unite to form a magnetic snap fastener of the Kwik-rivet style.
Each female section 201 includes a base washer 207 with first side 207a, oppositely facing second side 207b, and central hole 207c. First base plate 208 has a first side 208a and a second side 208b, and for each female section 203 attached to first base plate 208, there is a corresponding hole 208c through base plate 208 substantially axially aligned with central hole 207c of that particular female section 203. Tubular stem 209, which is circular in cross-section and which has a wide diameter section 209a, a medium diameter section 209b, and a narrow diameter section 209c, is insertable into the central hole 207c from base washer first side 207a and into the corresponding hole 208c in first base plate 208 from base plate first side 208a. The distal end of the narrow diameter section 209c extends outward from first base plate 208 to engage first rivet cap 210, as shown more clearly in FIG. 14 and as discussed below. There are no legs in this embodiment to attach the sections of the fastener to the pieces of material. Rather, the sections of the fastener are attached by the Kwik-rivet connectors. The rivet cap 210 may have a decorative surface or embossing.
Magnetic ring 213 is held adjacent to first side 207a of first base washer 207 by non-magnetic cover 215, which has a top 215a and a side wall 215b. Flange 215c helps contain magnetic ring 213 in place within the cover 215 and continuous flange 215d holds the cover in place relative to base washer 207. Magnetic ring 213 is toroidal in shape and has a central hole 213a larger than the outside diameter of the wide diameter section 209a of tubular stem 209. In this embodiment, tubular stem 209 and non-magnetic cover 215 have central holes 209d and 215e, respectively, which are substantially axially aligned with hole 207c of base washer 207 and corresponding hole 208c of first base plate 208.
Turning now to male sections 205 of magnetic snap fastener 201, it is seen that second tubular stem 219, including wide section 219a, medium section 219b, and narrow section 219c, is insertable through a corresponding hole 221a of second base plate 221 in a manner similar to that used in connection with each female section 203. Here again, in this embodiment, second tubular stem 219 has a central hole 219d that is substantially axially aligned with central hole 221a of second base plate 221. Moreover, as described in connection with female sections 203, the distal end of narrow diameter section 219c extends outward from second base plate 221 to engage second rivet cap 223, as shown more clearly in FIG. 14 and as discussed below.
FIG. 14 shows one male section 205 attached to a piece of material 225 held between second base plate 221 and second rivet cap 223. As seen in FIGS. 13 and 14, tubular stem 219 has a collapsible bump that is deformed by attachment of the second rivet cap 223 to cause the distal end of the tubular stem 219 to lock to the inside to the inside of the second rivet cap 223 to hold material 225. Each female section 203 is attached to a piece of material in a similar manner.
FIGS. 15a and 15b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the magnetic ring 213. FIGS. 16a and 16b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the base washer 207. FIGS. 16c and 16d show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of both the first and second base plates 208 and 221. FIGS. 17a and 17b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of the non-magnetic cover 215. FIGS. 18a and 18b show a top view and a side cut-away view, respectively, of both the tubular stems 209 and 219. Several of these components are identical on the male and female sides for the reasons previously discussed.
In still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, each male section and each female section comprises solid stems instead of tubular stems. Although not shown, the stems may also be partially hollow. Referring to FIG. 19, one female section 303 and one male section 305 of this preferred embodiment of magnetic snap fastener 301 are shown separated from one another. Each female section 303 and each male section 305 is adapted so that any female section 303 and any male section 305 may mate to form a complete snap fastener.
Each female section 303 includes a base washer 307 with first side 307a, opposite facing second side 307b and central hole 307c. A first base plate 308 has a first side 308a and a second side 308b, and for each female section 303 attached to first base plate 308, there is a corresponding hole 308c through base plate 308 substantially axially aligned with central hole 307c of that particular female section 303. Solid stem 309 is circular in cross section and has a wide diameter section 309a and a narrow diameter section 309b. Solid stem 309 may be inserted into the central hole 307c from base washer first side 307a and into the corresponding hole 308c in first base plate 308 from base plate first side 308a. The distal end of the narrow diameter section 309b is flattened to widen the portion of narrow diameter section 309b that protrudes from second side 308b of first base washer 308 and thereby-affix first side 308a of first base plate 308 adjacent to the second side 307b of base washer 307, separated only by the width of continuous flange 315d described below, and attachment legs 311 adjacent to second side 308b of base plate 308. Desirably, the legs 311 are not rigidly secured with respect to base washer 307.
Magnetic ring 313 is held adjacent to first side 307a of base washer 307 by non-magnetic cover 315, which has a top 315a and a side wall 315b. Flange 315c helps contain magnetic ring 313 in place within the cover 315 and continu |