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Apparatus and method for joining and aligning fixture modules in an end-to-end relationship, utilizing paired interlocking connectors. The apparatus and method are particularly suited for connecting fluorescent light modules which are suspended from a wall or ceiling, with minimal end-to-end distanc

Apparatus and method for joining and aligning fixture modules in an end-to-end relationship, utilizing paired interlocking connectors. The apparatus and method are particularly suited for connecting fluorescent light modules which are suspended from a wall or ceiling, with minimal end-to-end distance between the ends of the fluorescent light tubes in adjacent modules. The connectors are placed at the ends of the modules, with a body portion of each connector adjacent a module end. Tapered tabs, joined to at least one body portion of each pair of connectors, are insertable through tapered openings in the body portion of the other connector in the pair to connect the two modules to each other. The tabs and openings are adapted for interconnection in at least two positions, including a first position for supporting an end of one of the modules while the module is hung and while electrical connections are made between the modules, and a second position where the tabs are fully inserted through the body portion of the adjacent connector to interlock the connectors. The tapered sides of the tabs and the openings aid in aligning the modules as the tabs are inserted through the openings. Each connector may be constructed from a single piece of a suitable material.

대표청구항 ▼

Apparatus and method for joining and aligning fixture modules in an end-to-end relationship, utilizing paired interlocking connectors. The apparatus and method are particularly suited for connecting fluorescent light modules which are suspended from a wall or ceiling, with minimal end-to-end distanc

Apparatus and method for joining and aligning fixture modules in an end-to-end relationship, utilizing paired interlocking connectors. The apparatus and method are particularly suited for connecting fluorescent light modules which are suspended from a wall or ceiling, with minimal end-to-end distance between the ends of the fluorescent light tubes in adjacent modules. The connectors are placed at the ends of the modules, with a body portion of each connector adjacent a module end. Tapered tabs, joined to at least one body portion of each pair of connectors, are insertable through tapered openings in the body portion of the other connector in the pair to connect the two modules to each other. The tabs and openings are adapted for interconnection in at least two positions, including a first position for supporting an end of one of the modules while the module is hung and while electrical connections are made between the modules, and a second position where the tabs are fully inserted through the body portion of the adjacent connector to interlock the connectors. The tapered sides of the tabs and the openings aid in aligning the modules as the tabs are inserted through the openings. Each connector may be constructed from a single piece of a suitable material. valve member; a cap member connecting to one end of said frame and having a bearing opening for receiving said shaft portion; an urging member for urging said valve member away from said cap member; a contact member provided along an inner surface of said frame contactable to a free end of said valve member urged by said urging member; an opening, formed in a side of said frame, for disabling, when a free end of said valve member is contacted to said contact member, fluid communication with an opening provided at the other end of said frame, and for enabling, when the free end is away therefrom, fluid communication with the opening provided at the other end. 24. A liquid container according to claim 23, wherein said opening is formed at each of upper and lower positions of said frame, and wherein the lower opening is larger than the upper opening. 25. A liquid container according to claim 23, wherein said valve member has a width in the sliding direction, and a diameter that decreases toward said shaft portion. 26. A liquid container according to claim 23, wherein an entirety of an inner surface of said frame from another end opening to said contact portion is made of elastomer. 27. A liquid container according to claim 26, wherein said contact portion has a tongue shape. 28. A liquid container according to claim 27, wherein said tongue-shaped contact portion is inclined outwardly. 29. A liquid container according to claim 26, wherein a thickness of said elastomer is relatively thicker at an outer side opening of said frame and is relatively thinner at a contact portion side.