Patents Assigned to Frank Roth Co., Inc.
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Publication number: 20110049833Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, an ultra-light weight suspension fork for bicycles that provides smooth action of the suspension system that hitherto has been unachievable. This fork assembly contains a telescoping mechanism located in the head tube of the bicycle that uses linear roller bearings to reduce stiction and prevent torsional losses, but limits weight by only using two such bearings. Side-to-side load is eliminated by the use of two longitudinal members in close proximity to the inner tube of this telescoping mechanism. The telescoping mechanism is coupled to the wheel via an arched single-sided fork crown designed to maintain torsional and braking stiffness. The arched crown contains arches in two dimensions. The fork crown is coupled to the wheel via a shaped fork tube whose wall is thickened while the outside diameter is reduced so that the connection point to the axle mechanism has the same outside diameter as the fork tube thereby enabling significant strengthening of the assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2009Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: Frank Roth Co., Inc.Inventors: Frederick W. Kinzler, Walker P. Woodworth, Luigi J. Toffolo
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Publication number: 20090314919Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a light weight telescoping suspension seat mechanism for a watercraft seat pedestal designed to fit into an existing or new seat pedestal. This suspension seat mechanism contains a combination of roller bearings to allow the seat pedestal to move linearly, but not rotationally. An expanding bushing mechanism secures the seat assembly rigidly to the seat pedestal and floor, and another bushing connects the mechanism to the seat. Each are easily adjusted to allow for easy installation and removal of the suspension seat mechanism. Located inside the telescoping mechanism is a suspension damper with air rebound spring allowing the individual to tailor the suspension stiffness to individual preference. This suspension mechanism provides damping force on the seat. The rebound spring responds to seat movement so as to return the seat to its original position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: Frank Roth Co., Inc.Inventors: Luigi J. Toffolo, Walker P. Woodworth, Frederick W. Kinzler
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Patent number: 6739794Abstract: The coupling device is an assembly comprising of three congruently shaped axially extending parts with mating wedge-like angular cuts intended to cause said parts to expand in a direction of the minor width when a screw type fastener pulls the two outer members together. those angular surfaces are made so the parts do not permanently lock up, thereby allowing the device to be removed and re-used. The angles should be equal so the parts stay put axially when the screw is tightened. The cross-section of each of the three members is in the form of identical cat-eyes, (e.g. two intersecting circles whose centers do not coincide, and whose minor width is less than the radii. The circles comprising the cat-eye are preferably equal. This is the preferred embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2000Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Assignee: Frank Roth Co., Inc.Inventor: Hamlin Leonard
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Patent number: 6604886Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a light weight telescope assembly for bicycles that is readily adjustable by riders in the field and that provides smooth action of the suspension system. This telescope assembly contains roller bearings to reduce stiction and prevent torsional losses. The adjustment mechanism includes an adjustable outer race shim composed of two oppositely tapered races moving longitudinally in relation to each other, thereby causing their combined thickness to expand or contract thus allowing the bearing pre-load to be adjustable. Integral with this adjustable pre-load mechanism is a bayonet-style collar whose design enables bearing pre-load adjustment from a position that is readily accessible by consumers. In addition, this collar enables greater geometric latitude on the shape of the inner tube, thereby enabling significant strengthening of the telescoping assembly using light weight materials and lower cost manufacturing processes that hitherto have been unachievable.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Assignee: Frank Roth Co., Inc.Inventors: Frederick Warner Kinzler, Luigi John Toffolo, Walker Philip Woodworth