The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Mar. 25, 2003
Filed:
Jan. 20, 2000
Patrick N. Morefield, Burlington, NC (US);
Engineered Controls International Inc., Elon College, NC (US);
Abstract
An improved crimp joint for joining components of gas or fluid distribution systems is disclosed. The joint is particularly suited for use with components made from low ductility materials including die cast metals. The joint comprises a flange formed by a first joined component and a second component that defines a second mating surface and a lip that is configured to closely surround at least a portion of the flange when the flange is positioned adjacent to the second mating surface. The joint is formed by deforming the lip to overlie the flange, capturing the flange between the deformed lip and the second mating surface. The flange includes a bead formed near the periphery of the flange on a surface against which the lip is deformed to abut to form the crimp joint. The bead is sized to deform and engage the lip thereby increasing the strength of the crimp joint.