Snap-together reel with reinforced tab
AssigneeVandor Corporation
InventorChristopher Nichols
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A reel includes a core having a first end region defining a plurality of slots, a first flange, and a plurality of latching arrangements configured to, in a connected state, connect the first end region of the core to the first flange. Each respective latching arrangement includes a latch arm having a latching projection that, in the connected state, is arranged in an associated slot of the plurality of slots, and a support member that, in the connected state, supports the latch arm on a side of the latch arm opposite the latching projection so as to disable the latching projection from moving out of the associated slot.
Claims17
A reel comprising:
- a core having a first end region defining a plurality of slots defined through the core;
- a first flange;
- a plurality of latching arrangements configured to, in a connected state, connect the first end region of the core to the first flange, each respective latching arrangement of the plurality of latching arrangements comprising:
- a latch arm having a latching projection that, in the connected state, is arranged in an associated slot of the plurality of slots;
- and
- a support member that, in the connected state, supports the latch arm on a side of the latch arm opposite the latching projection so as to disable the latching projection from moving out of the associated slot, the support member pivotable from a first position to a second position, wherein in the second position the support member applies greater force to the side of the latch arm opposite the latching projection than in the first position.
A method of assembling a reel comprising:
- inserting a first end region of a core, which defines a plurality of slots, into a channel of a first flange;
- connecting the first end region of the core to the first flange with a plurality of latching arrangements by:
- arranging a latching projection of a latch arm of each of the plurality of latching arrangements in an associated slot of the plurality of slots;
- and
- supporting the latch arm of each of the plurality of latching arrangements on a side of the latch arm opposite the latching projection by pivotally moving a support member to engage the latch arm so as to disable the latching projection from moving out of the associated slot.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.