Tableware clip-on device

Abstract

A C-ring clips to an edge of tableware. The C-ring has a rearwardly extending shaft supporting a ball. A gripping device rotates on the ball and supports a shelf. A fixture capable of displaying an ornament or name card is attached to the shelf.

1 . A tableware clip-on device comprising: 
 a C-ring adapted to grip an edge of tableware, the C-ring integral with a shaft extending away from a back end of the C-ring, the shaft connected to a ball at a point distal from the C-ring;    the ball supported by an axially mounted pin attached to the shaft at the point distal from the C-ring;    a partially circular cap adapted to movably grip the ball, the circular cap supporting a T-bar on an exterior surface distal from an opening between a pair of ends on the circular cap; and    the T-bar supporting a pair of spreadable lips adapted to hold an ornament or name card so that the ornament or name card is attached by the C-ring to the tableware.    
   
   
       2 . (canceled)  
   
   
       3 . The tableware clip-on device according to  claim 1  wherein the C-ring, shaft, T-bar and spreadable lips are made from a molded high strength polymer.  
   
   
       4 . A combination tableware plate and clip-on device comprising: 
 a tableware plate;    a C-ring adapted to grip an edge of the tableware plate,    the C-ring integral with a rearwardly extending shaft, a distal end of the shaft connected to a ball;    the ball supported by an axially mounted pin attached to the distal end of the shaft;    a means for movably gripping the ball and supporting a shelf; and    a means for displaying an ornament attached to the shelf.    
   
   
       5 . The tableware plate and clip-on device according to  claim 4  wherein the means for movably gripping the ball is a frictionally engaging partial circular member.  
   
   
       6 . The tableware plate and clip-on device according to  claim 4  wherein the means for displaying an ornament is a clamping device mounted on the shelf.