초록 ▼

A self-adjusting end cap for capping an object having an opening. The end cap includes a base that has an inner and an outer surface, at least one post connected to the base inner surface, and at least one rib extending outwardly from the post. The rib is adapted to fit in a channel in an opening of

A self-adjusting end cap for capping an object having an opening. The end cap includes a base that has an inner and an outer surface, at least one post connected to the base inner surface, and at least one rib extending outwardly from the post. The rib is adapted to fit in a channel in an opening of an object to be capped. When the end cap and object are aligned for connection, the rib extends beyond an inner wall of the channel. A portion of the rib is sheared off by the inner wall of the channel upon insertion of the post and rib in the channel, thereby positioning the end cap within the object. The posts in combination with the ribs create a precise and tight friction fit between the end cap and the object. Preferably, the end cap has two posts, each with a rib extending outwardly therefrom, and the object has two channels, each having an inner wall. The outer edges of the ribs are separated by a first distance, and the channels are separated by a second distance. The first distance is preferably greater than the second distance. Then, upon insertion of the end cap into the object, the extra width on the ribs is sheared off by the inner walls of the channels, thereby positioning the end cap within the object.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A self-adjusting end cap, comprising:a base having an inner and an outer surface; at least one post connected to said base inner surface, said at least one post adapted to fit into a channel in an opening of an object to be capped; and at least one rib extending outwardly from said at least one p

1. A self-adjusting end cap, comprising:a base having an inner and an outer surface; at least one post connected to said base inner surface, said at least one post adapted to fit into a channel in an opening of an object to be capped; and at least one rib extending outwardly from said at least one post, a portion of said at least one rib adapted to fit into the channel in the opening of the object; wherein said at least one rib extends beyond an inner wall of the channel, such that said at least one rib is sheared by the inner wall of the channel upon insertion of said at least one post and at least one rib into the channel for positioning said end cap within the object.