Patent Description:
Typically, stainless steel spring clips are used to secure an insulation blanket to a frame. Such stainless steel spring clips are generally sized and shaped to fit around a particular type of structure. As an example, a particular spring clip is sized and shaped to fit around a Z-shaped section station frame (a "Z frame"). Before spring clips are installed, insulation blankets are positioned on a Z frame. An individual uses a specialized tool to assist in the opening of the spring clip, and also to engage the spring clip around the Z frame.

However, the specialized tool may not be readily available at a particular worksite. Further, certain individuals may opt not to use the specialized tool. For example, an individual may opt to use a mallet-type tool to tap or strike the spring clip in place, which can potentially damage the spring clip. Additionally, using the specialized tool to install each spring clip around a Z frame is time and labor intensive. For example, a commercial aircraft can include hundreds, if not thousands, of spring clips that are secured to various structures.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a reflective insulation blanket of folded flexible metal foil having dead air spaces between a principle member and one or more outer members. The blanket being held apart in spaced relationship with one or more pairs of expanders terminating with a mounting flange at each end. A pair of retaining clips cooperate with each other to hold the blanket in place against building structural members. Each clip having an elongated base folded over upon itself to provide a retaining section terminating with a pair of radial arcuate surfaces with an angular abutment point on the extreme end. The clips embrace the structural members at the leg and compressably engage and retain the mounting flange of the blanket against the web of the building structural members.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states an adjustable mounting bracket for secure mounting as by adhesive attachment onto an exposed edge of a substrate, wherein the mounting bracket is adapted for quick and easy subsequent mounting of a selected structure such as tubing, wire bundles, etc., relative to the substrate. The adjustable mounting bracket includes a pair of slidably interfitting, generally L-shaped bracket members which cooperatively define a slidably overlying pair of mounting plates and an associated pair of slidably separable clamp jaw plates. The slidably interfitting mounting plates accommodate adjustable spaced-apart separation of the clamp jaw plates to seat firmly against opposed surfaces of the substrate edge, such as mounting onto a rib protruding from the substrate or mounting onto an inner diameter edge of an opening formed in the substrate.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a structural clamp adapted for positive attachment to I-beams, H-beams, T-bars, conventional angles, bulb angles, channels, flanges, plates and other similar structural shapes comprises a pair of clamping jaw members effective to positively grip various combinations of beam flanges and webs.

<CIT>, in accordance with its abstract, states a clamping device which includes an elongate element, a fixed jaw coupled to the elongate element, a movable jaw slidable along the elongate element, and a clamping mechanism coupled to the movable jaw operative to move the movable jaw towards the fixed jaw slightly while being clamped to the elongate element.

A need exists for an effective and efficient clip system that is configured to quickly and easily mount to a structure, such as a Z frame within a commercial aircraft. Further, a need exists for a clip system that can be secured to a structure without the need for a separate and distinct tool.

With those needs in mind, certain examples of the present disclosure provide a clip system according to claim <NUM>.

In at least one example, the first clamp member and the second clamp member may be integrally molded and formed as a single piece. In at least one example, the first clamp member and the second clamp member may be formed of plastic.

In at least one example, the adjustment arm may include includes a first ratchet surface. The sleeve may include a second ratchet surface. The first ratchet surface may engage the second ratchet surface.

In at least one example, the first engagement arm may mirror the second engagement arm. In at least one example, each of the first engagement arm and the second engagement arm may include an extension segment, a curved segment inwardly curving from the extension segment, and an engaging segment extending from the curved segment opposite from the extension segment. The engaging segment can be parallel to the extension segment.

The clip system can also include a lanyard coupled to the first clamp member and the second clamp member.

Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method for securing an insulation blanket to a frame with a clip system according to claim <NUM>.

Certain non-claimed examples may provide a vehicle including a frame, an insulation blanket coupled to the frame, and a clip system securing the insulation blanket to the frame, as described herein.

Examples of the present disclosure provide a clip system, which can be formed of plastic. The clip system can be integrally molded as a single piece. The clip system can include a first or male clamp member coupled to a second or female clamp member. The first clamp member can be tethered to the second clamp member, such as via a molded-in lanyard.

In at least one example, the clip system is configured to secure to different sized Z frames, such as within a commercial aircraft. The clip system is adjustable. In particular, the first clamp member and the second clamp member can be moved relative to one another to fit to different sized structures, such as different sized Z frames. Unlike stainless steel clips, the clip system can be secured to a structure by hand, without the need for a separate and distinct tool.

The clip system includes the adjustable first clamp member and the second clamp member, and can also include a quick-release feature that allows individuals to install and remove the clamp assembly without a specialized tool. Because the clip system can be formed of plastic, the clip system is less susceptible to fracturing and corrosion (in contrast to metal spring clips).

In at least one example, the first clamp member and the second clamp member are shaped to adjustably receive a Z-shaped portion of an aircraft frame while sandwiching an insulation blanket to the frame. A locking mechanism ensures the two clip bodies remain locked in place.

<FIG> illustrates an isometric front view of a clip system <NUM>, according to an example of the present disclosure. The clip system <NUM> includes a male or first clamp member <NUM> adjustably coupled to a female or second clamp member <NUM>. In at least one example, a lanyard <NUM> tethers the first clamp member <NUM> to the second clamp member <NUM>. A lock <NUM> ensures that the first clamp member <NUM> remains secured to the second clamp member <NUM>. Alternatively, the clip system <NUM> may not include the lanyard <NUM> and/or the lock <NUM>.

The clip system <NUM> can be integrally formed and molded as a single piece. For example, the clip system <NUM> can be integrally formed and molded as a single piece of injection-molded plastic. In particular, the first clamp member <NUM>, the second clamp member <NUM>, the lanyard <NUM>, and the lock <NUM> can be integrally formed and molded together. Flash connections can be formed between the components and broken after the clip system <NUM> is formed and molded, such that the first clamp member <NUM> can be adjustably moved relative to the second clamp member <NUM>, for example.

In at least one example, the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> are bi-directionally adjustable in a linear manner. For example, the first clamp member <NUM> and the clamp member <NUM> can be linearly adjusted in directions denoted by arrows A. The bi-directional, linear adjustment of the first clamp member <NUM> in relation to the second clamp member <NUM> provides adaptable and increased clamping force to better secure an insulation blanket to a frame, for example.

The first clamp member <NUM> includes an adjustment arm <NUM> connected to an engagement arm (for example, a first engagement arm) <NUM>. The adjustment arm <NUM> includes a root <NUM> that connects to a distal tip <NUM> through an intermediate body <NUM>. A first surface <NUM> opposite from a second surface <NUM> extends along the intermediate body <NUM>. The first surface <NUM> can be flat and smooth. The second surface <NUM> includes a ratchet surface (for example, a first ratchet surface) <NUM> including a plurality of ratchet teeth <NUM>.

The engagement arm <NUM> includes an extension segment <NUM> extending from the root <NUM>, such as at a right angle. Optionally, the extension segment <NUM> can connect to the root <NUM> at various other angles. A curved segment <NUM> inwardly curves from the extension segment <NUM> toward the second clamp member <NUM>. An engaging segment <NUM> extends from the curved segment <NUM>, opposite from the extension segment <NUM>. The engaging segment <NUM> can be parallel to the extension segment <NUM>. As shown, the engaging segment <NUM> is inboard in relation to the extension segment <NUM>. That is, the engaging segment <NUM> is closer to the second clamp member <NUM> than the extension segment <NUM>. An interior surface <NUM> of the engaging segment <NUM> can include gripping protuberances <NUM>, such as ridges, embossments, or the like.

The second clamp member <NUM> includes a sleeve <NUM> that is configured to receive and adjustably retain the adjustment arm <NUM> of the first clamp member <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> includes a base <NUM>, side walls <NUM>, and an enclosing wall <NUM> opposite from the base <NUM>. A receiving end <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM> includes an opening into which the adjustment arm <NUM> extends.

An interior surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> includes a ratchet surface (for example, a second ratchet surface) <NUM> including a plurality of ratchet teeth <NUM>. The ratchet surface <NUM> is configured to engage the ratchet surface <NUM> of the first clamp member <NUM> to lock the first clamp member <NUM> at a desired position relative to the second clamp member <NUM>.

A recess <NUM> is formed in the sleeve <NUM>. For example, the recess <NUM> extends between the side walls <NUM> and the enclosing wall <NUM>. A lock (for example, a secondary lock) <NUM> is disposed within the recess <NUM>. The lock <NUM> is moveably secured in relation to the recess <NUM> (for example, the lock <NUM> is configured to move into and out of the recess <NUM>) of the sleeve <NUM> over a portion of the adjustment arm <NUM>. The lock <NUM> includes a strap <NUM> that extends over the recess <NUM>, and a tab <NUM> that extends from the strap <NUM> toward the base <NUM>. The tab <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> that receives a protuberance <NUM> (such as a barb, post, block, or the like) extending from the base <NUM> and/or a side wall <NUM>. An end of the lock <NUM> opposite from the tab <NUM> can include another tab that secures to an opposite side of the sleeve <NUM>, or can pivotally couple to the opposite side of the sleeve <NUM>.

An engagement arm (for example, a second engagement arm) <NUM> extends from an end <NUM> of the sleeve <NUM> opposite from the receiving end <NUM>. As shown, the engagement arm <NUM> can mirror the engagement arm <NUM>. The engagement arm <NUM> includes an extension segment <NUM> extending from the end <NUM>, such as at a right angle. Optionally, the extension segment <NUM> can connect to the end <NUM> at various other angles. A curved segment <NUM> inwardly curves from the extension segment <NUM> toward the first clamp member <NUM>. An engaging segment <NUM> extends from the curved segment <NUM>, opposite from the extension segment <NUM>. The engaging segment <NUM> can be parallel to the extension segment <NUM>. As shown, the engaging segment <NUM> is inboard in relation to the extension segment <NUM>. That is, the engaging segment <NUM> is closer to the first clamp member <NUM> than the extension segment <NUM>. An interior surface <NUM> of the engaging segment <NUM> can include gripping protuberances, such as ridges, embossments, or the like.

In operation, the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> are configured to be adjusted relative to one another in the directions of arrow A. In this manner, the clip system <NUM> can be adjusted to fit to various structures having different sizes and shapes, such as different sized Z frames.

The adjustment arm <NUM> can be moved inwardly and outwardly in relation to the sleeve <NUM> in the directions of arrows A. For example, an individual can move the adjustment arm <NUM> outwardly to accept a wider sized structure between the opposed engagement arms <NUM> and <NUM>. The individual can then press the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp <NUM> toward one another to a desired clamping position. The ratchet surface <NUM> of the first clamp member <NUM> and the ratchet surface <NUM> of the second clamp member <NUM> engage one another to prevent the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> from spreading back open.

In order to adjust the clip system <NUM> to a wider position, the tab <NUM> of lock <NUM> can be pulled off the protuberance <NUM> in the direction of arc B, and the lock <NUM> can then be pivoted off the adjustment arm <NUM> in the recess <NUM> in the direction of arc C. As such, the lock <NUM> no longer constrains upward motion of the adjustment arm <NUM> relative to the sleeve <NUM>. Thus, an individual can then lift the distal tip <NUM> in the direction of arc C so that the ratchet surface <NUM> of the first clamp member <NUM> disengages from the ratchet surface <NUM> of the second clamp member <NUM>, thereby allowing the individual to spread open the first clamp member <NUM> in relation to the second clamp member <NUM>.

As described herein, the clip system <NUM> is configured to secure an insulation blanket to a frame. The clip system <NUM> includes the first clamp member <NUM> including the adjustment arm <NUM> and the (first) engagement arm <NUM>. The clip system <NUM> also includes the second clamp member <NUM> including the sleeve <NUM> and the (second) engagement arm <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> is configured to adjustably retain the adjustment arm <NUM> to allow the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> to be moveably adjusted. The (first) engagement arm <NUM> and the (second) engagement arm <NUM> are configured to securely clamp portions of the insulation blanket and the frame therebetween.

<FIG> illustrates an isometric view of the clip system <NUM> in an expanded position, according to an example of the present disclosure. As shown, the first clamp member <NUM> can be separated from the second clamp member <NUM>, such that the adjustment arm <NUM> is removed from the sleeve <NUM>. The lanyard <NUM> is secured to both the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM>, thereby ensuring that the clip system <NUM> remains intact and together. In particular, the lanyard <NUM> prevents the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> from uncoupling (and potentially being lost).

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the clip system <NUM> through line <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG> secured to a structure <NUM>, according to an example of the present disclosure. <FIG> illustrates an isometric view of the clip system <NUM> securing an insulation blanket <NUM> to the structure <NUM>, according to an example of the present disclosure.

In at least one example, the structure <NUM> is a frame within a commercial aircraft. As a further example, the structure <NUM> is a Z frame having a main segment <NUM> between a first end segment <NUM> and a second end segment <NUM> that extends in an opposite direction from the first end segment <NUM>.

The clip system <NUM> is configured to be adjusted to fit to a particular size and shape of the structure <NUM>, as described above. An insulation blanket can be sandwiched between the structure <NUM> and the clip system <NUM>. As such, the clip system <NUM> can be adjusted to a desired width W, as described above. The first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> can then be squeezed together, as described above, to securely clamp the insulation blanket to the structure <NUM>, such that the opposed ratchet surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> prevent the clip system <NUM> from undesirably spreading open.

The opposed engaging segments <NUM> and <NUM> of the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM>, respectively, compressively sandwich the insulation blanket <NUM> to the structure <NUM>. In particular, a portion of the insulation blanket <NUM> and a portion of the structure <NUM> is sandwiched between the engaging segment <NUM> and the engaging segment <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flow chart of a method for securing a clip system to one or more structures, according to an example of the present disclosure. Referring to <FIG>, at <NUM>, the clip system <NUM> is opened to an expanded width. For example, the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM> can be spread apart to a width that allows a portion of structure(s) to be positioned between the opposed engaging segments <NUM> and <NUM> of the clip system <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the clip system <NUM> is then moved onto the structure(s) so that a portion of the structure(s) is between the opposed engaging segments <NUM> and <NUM>. At <NUM>, an individual then presses opposed portions (for example, the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM>) together to reduce the width and clamp the structure(s) between the opposed engaging segments <NUM> and <NUM>. At <NUM>, a portion of a material (such as a portion of an insulation blanket) is sandwiched between the the structure(s) and the clip system <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the individual then determines if the desired clamping width is achieved. If not, the method returns to <NUM>. If, however, the desired clamping width is achieved, the method proceeds from <NUM> to <NUM>, at which the individual releases the clip system <NUM>.

At <NUM>, it is determined if the clamp system <NUM> is to be removed (such to be readjusted, or coupled to a different structure(s)). If not, the method ends at <NUM>.

If, however, the clamp system <NUM> is to be removed at <NUM>, the method proceeds to <NUM>, at which the lock <NUM> is moved away from the adjustment arm <NUM> (for example, being pivoted upwardly from a locking position). At <NUM>, the adjustment arm <NUM> is then moved away from ratcheting engagement with the sleeve <NUM> (for example, by the distal tip <NUM> being pivoted upward). At <NUM>, with the adjustment arm <NUM> still away from ratcheting engagement with the sleeve <NUM>, the width of the clip system <NUM> is expanded, such as by spreading apart the first clamp member <NUM> and the second clamp member <NUM>. At <NUM>, the clip system <NUM> is then removed from the structure(s).

<FIG> illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft <NUM>, according to an example of the present disclosure. The aircraft <NUM> includes a propulsion system <NUM> that includes engines <NUM>, for example. Optionally, the propulsion system <NUM> may include more engines <NUM> than shown. The engines <NUM> are carried by wings <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM>. In other examples, the engines <NUM> may be carried by a fuselage <NUM> and/or an empennage <NUM>. The empennage <NUM> may also support horizontal stabilizers <NUM> and a vertical stabilizer <NUM>.

The fuselage <NUM> of the aircraft <NUM> defines an internal cabin <NUM>, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (for example, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), one or more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class, and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. The systems and methods described herein can be used within the aircraft <NUM>. For example, the clip system <NUM> described herein can be used to secure an insulation blanket to a Z frame within a portion of the aircraft <NUM>, such as within the fuselage <NUM>.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, examples of the present disclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further, examples of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

As described herein, examples of the present disclosure provide an effective and efficient clip system that is configured to quickly and easily mount to a structure, such as a Z frame within a commercial aircraft. Further, examples of the present disclosure provide a clip system that can be secured to a structure without the need for a separate and distinct tool.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (and/or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made as long as they fall within the scope of the appended claims. the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various examples of the disclosure, the examples are by no means limiting and are exemplary examples. Many other examples will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various examples of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims.

Claim 1:
A clip system (<NUM>) configured to secure an insulation blanket to a frame, the clip system (<NUM>) comprising:
a first clamp member (<NUM>) including an adjustment arm (<NUM>) and a first engagement arm (<NUM>);
a second clamp member (<NUM>) including a sleeve (<NUM>) and a second engagement arm (<NUM>), wherein the sleeve (<NUM>) is configured to adjustably retain the adjustment arm (<NUM>) to allow the first clamp member (<NUM>) and the second clamp member (<NUM>) to be moveably adjusted, and wherein the first engagement arm (<NUM>) and the second engagement arm (<NUM>) are configured to securely clamp portions of the insulation blanket and the frame therebetween; and
a lock (<NUM>) moveably secured in relation to a recess (<NUM>) of the sleeve (<NUM>) over a portion of the adjustment arm (<NUM>) such that the lock (<NUM>) is configured to be moved into the recess (<NUM>), wherein the lock (<NUM>) comprises a strap (<NUM>) extending over the recess (<NUM>) of the sleeve (<NUM>), and a tab (<NUM>) extending from the strap (<NUM>) toward a base (<NUM>) of the sleeve (<NUM>).