Importance

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Abstract

A molded knob of the type which frictionally engages and fits over the end of a shaft, which shaft end is of generally U-shaped, transverse cross-section created by the removal of a portion of a circular tubular shaft. A hub is formed as part of the knob. A shaft-receiving socket of generally circular, transverse cross-section is formed in the hub. A pair of generally L-shaped fingers are formed as part of the hub and extend the depth of the socket. The L-shaped fingers are positioned back-to-back to define a U-shaped slot between the fingers and hub, which U-shaped slot receives the U-shaped end of the shaft. Each L-shaped finger has a base portion which is molded integrally with the core and a back portion which extends cantileverly from the base portion, with the base and back portions connected by an integral hinge. The back portions of the L-shaped fingers are spaced from each other about their integral hinges and are flexible so as to bend toward each other when the shaft is inserted in the socket. The back portions of the fingers have bulbous protrusions near their tips to frictionally engage the inside surface of the U-shaped shaft end as torque is applied to the knob.

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First Claim