Energy absorbing video cassette
AssigneeLCV Associates
InventorsPaul J. Gelardi, David A. Capotosto, James R. Dussault
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An integrally molded video cassette is formed with an integral living hinge between the body of the cassette and the dust cover. An energy absorption zone formed near the hinge isolates the hinge from directly transferring high impact forces between the relatively low mass dust door cover and the high mass cassette body loaded with reels and tape. Energy absorption zones are formed of relatively thin wall areas with radiused intersections. One or more radiused grooves are formed in the wall sections.
Claims12
A video cassette apparatus comprising a base, a top, rear wall and side walls connected to the base and the top, forming a body having a frontal tape-exposing area, a dust door for covering the tape-exposing area integrally formed living hinges connecting the body and the dust door for permitting the dust door to move between an upward tape-exposing position and a downward tape-covering position, and energy absorption zones positioned near the living hinges for absorbing impact energies and reduce transmission of impact energies between the door and body through the hinges.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.