Importance

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Abstract

A gripping device or the like, particularly for gripping hot pans. First and second movable members are formed by molding with structural plastic material. One of the members has a pivot post extending laterally and defining a pivot axis. The other movable member has a tubular pivot member, arranged for a close fit reception over the pivot post to pivotally join the two movable members. At least one pivot post and the tubular pivot member is integral with a movable member. The pivot post has an annular groove, and the tubular pivot member includes a plurality of integral, resilient locking tabs having portions projecting radially inward at a shallow angle to the pivot axis. The two movable members are assembled by forcing the tubular pivot member over the pivot post. The locking tabs are resiliently displaced outwardly during the assembly, and snap into place in the annular groove to positively lock the two parts together. A biasing spring feature is provided by forming facing annular recesses, around the pivot post and tubular pivot member, for the reception of a spring of 'omega' configuration, which accommodates assembly of the device without pretensioning the spring. Each movable member includes a spring post for engaging the spring. One movable member includes an anchor element for securing one end of the spring in engagement with its spring post. The fully-stressed inside diameter of the spring is greater than the outside diameter of the tubular pivot member.

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First Claim