This invention relates to key loops such as those used in releasably supporting keys in depending relation from a key head affixed within various types of key cases. The type of key case typical of those to which the key loops of the present invention may be adapted is shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,058,602 and 4,086,796.
Key support loops generally comprise a spring metal rod or wire stock formed into a loop with an access opening at the top. The loop may be a "tear drop" or "pear" shape with an enlarged head or ball for attachment to a key head or bar mounted across the inside top of the key case. The free end of the resilient loop terminates adjacent the shank portion thus forming an access opening or mouth adapted to receive a key which may be fitted onto the loop by inserting the apertured head of the key onto the free upper end of the loop and pressing downwardly to wedge open the mouth portion of the loop.
Those who are familiar with these types of key cases are aware that attachment of a key to a support loop usually requires a fair degree of care and dexterity. Even after careful attachment of the keys, however, it is not uncommon to find that one or more keys has become detached from such conventional key loops. This happens by the key head working its way toward the mouth of the key loop and wedging apart the mouth portion of the loop so that the key may become separated from the key case.
Prior art attempts to render key loops more secure from such key loop separation have involved the use of closure attachments for spanning the key receiving mouth portion of the loop. Another approach has been to provide key loops of relatively complex configuration in which the upper ends of the loop are of split construction and the loop is opened and closed by twisting its upper ends. It will be realized that the manufacture of such loop structures involve greater manufacturing time than a simple loop and are thus more costly. In addition, such loops must be removed from the key loop support bar in order to attach or remove a key therefrom.
It is a principal object of the present invention to provide a key hook which overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art.
Another object is to provide a key hook wherein the problem of accidental key detachment is essentially eliminated.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a key hook on which a key can be attached easily and conveniently.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a key hook which is simple in construction and economical to manufacture.