US 4,905,442 · Granted 1990-03-06
The Click-Lock Coupling That Holds Aluminum Frames Together
Imagine a metal connector with two interlocking pieces—one male, one female—that snap together with a satisfying click and stay locked without falling apart. This patent describes exactly how to engineer those locking surfaces so they engage in the right order and hold tight with continuous pressure.
The plain-English version
What it protects
The claim covers a latching joint coupling where complementary male and female members lock together via specially shaped shoulders. What's protected here is the precise geometry and positioning: the first (outer) surfaces engage before the second (inner) surfaces as you push the pieces together along their lengthwise axis, and then both surfaces apply constant mating forces to keep everything locked in place. The specific dimensioning of these latching portions and their sequenced engagement is what the patent locks down.
Why it matters
This patent represents a mechanical solution to a practical industrial problem: creating reliable, repeatable snap-together connections in aluminum structures without requiring threaded fasteners, welding, or tools. For a company like Wells Aluminum, this kind of coupling technology is valuable in manufacturing because it reduces assembly time, lowers labor costs, and improves product consistency. The patent protects a proprietary way of making these connections work reliably.
Real-world use
You'd encounter this technology in aluminum window frames, door assemblies, or modular furniture where pieces need to click together securely without bolts or screws.
Original USPTO abstract
A latch coupling includes a male and female member having complementary latching portions, all of which are dimensioned and positioned so as to assure that a first surface, which extends from the edge at which the two exterior surfaces are to meet, engage in their mating position before second surfaces which extend from the first surfaces during the insertion along the longitudinal axis of the male and female member. The complementary latching portions apply continuous mating forces to the first and second surfaces of the complementary shoulders when mated.
Patent details
- Publication number
- US 4,905,442
- Filing date
- 1989-03-17
- Grant date
- 1990-03-06
- Assignee
- Wells Aluminum Corporation
- Inventor(s)
- DANIELS; EVERETT
- CPC class
- F16B21/071
Want to file your own patent?
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