With Winding Means Patents (Class 185/39)
  • Patent number: 11933103
    Abstract: A motorized window blind includes a top rail, a bottom rail, a plurality of slats assembled between the top rail and the bottom rail, and a control device received in the bottom rail so as to control movement of the slats. The control device includes a transmission unit, a motor, a first cord, a second cord and a power supply. The power supply provides electric power to the motor which is connected to the transmission unit. The first and second cords are respectively connected to the transmission unit, and extend through the slats, and are connected to the top rail. The transmission unit is driven by the motor to lift and lower the slats. The control device includes a detection unit and an angle detection member. The slats are lowered when the detection unit detects the power supply is low. The angle detection member angularly controls the salts status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: CHING FENG HOME FASHIONS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen Ying Liang
  • Patent number: 11759235
    Abstract: Constant-torque intraosseous access devices and methods thereof are disclosed. An intraosseous access device can include a constant-torque spring assembly disposed in a housing, a drive shaft extending from the housing, and an intraosseous needle coupled to the drive shaft configured to provide intraosseous access to a medullary cavity of a patient. A method of such an intraosseous access device can include inserting a distal end of the intraosseous needle through skin at an insertion site of a patient; applying force to bone at the insertion site with the distal end of the intraosseous needle, which starts winding a metal ribbon of the constant-torque spring assembly from an output spool onto a storage spool, thereby starting rotation of the intraosseous needle; and drilling through the bone until the intraosseous needle enters a medullary cavity of the patient, thereby achieving intraosseous access with the intraosseous access device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Bard Access Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Pett, Daniel B. Blanchard, Eric W. Lindekugel, Joe Spataro, Ralph Sonderegger
  • Patent number: 11585327
    Abstract: The present invention provides a spring return device comprising a rotatable drive coupling configured for releasably engaging a rotatable drive part on a first side of the device and configured for releasably engaging a rotatable drive part on an opposite second side of the device. A spring is engaged with the drive coupling, and a retainer retains the spring. The drive coupling is rotatable relative to the retainer, wherein rotation of the drive coupling relative to the retainer in a first direction causes mechanical energy to be stored in the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: KINETROL LTD
    Inventor: Roger Chapman
  • Patent number: 11219992
    Abstract: A tool assembly designed to couple to a torsion spring and torsion rod to wind and unwind the torsion spring on the torsion rod. The tool assembly includes a variety of components in mechanical communication with one other to rotate the torsion spring. Specifically, the assembly includes a worm gear in mechanical communication with a ring gear and a set of brackets securable to a torsion spring. Between the ring gear and the brackets are a series of plates arranged and assembled on a base, providing a singular device within the assembly that a user can grip to manipulate a torsion spring in a safer manner than possible in the prior art. A drill or other device can couple to attachment points in mechanical communication with the worm gear to rotate the worm gear at a greater rate, thereby reducing the winding and unwinding time of the torsion spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: James L. Frank Door Service Inc.
    Inventor: James L. Frank
  • Patent number: 11051458
    Abstract: A high reaching pruning apparatus having an elongated telescoping pole, a foot brace and a hook for grasping a tree limb. The high reaching pruning apparatus has an opening in the hook for receiving a saw blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Inventor: John Wilson
  • Patent number: 11027835
    Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle according to various embodiments includes: a housing; a communication circuit, wherein the communication circuit establishes wireless communication with an external controller; and a plurality of propulsion systems connected to the housing, wherein the propulsion systems include: a motor; a rotation shaft having an axis extending in a first direction, wherein a first end is connected to the motor, and wherein the rotation shaft is rotates in a first direction by the motor; a cap structure fixed to the second end of the rotation shaft, a propeller including: a hub including a through-hole formed in the first direction, such that the rotation shaft rotatably passes through the through-hole, wherein the propeller is detachably connected to the cap structure, such that, when an external force is exerted on the blade, the propeller is released from the cap structure to be freely movable along the axis toward the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seung-Chul Baek, Wonhee Choi, Sang-In Baek, Min-Woo Yoo, Byoung-Uk Yoon, Min-Sung Lee, Jong-Chul Choi
  • Patent number: 10780511
    Abstract: A foldable miter saw and folding method of miter saw are disclosed. The foldable miter saw includes a base unit, a workable, and a cutting unit. The cutting unit includes a support arm pivotally mounted on the worktable, a saw blade, and a driver. The miter saw folding method includes the step of biasing the cutting unit relative to the base unit and the step of rotating the support arm relative to the base unit and the worktable to change the cutting unit from a working position to a folded position, thus reducing the vertical space occupied by the cutting unit and facilitating delivery, storage and package of the foldable miter saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: REXON INDUSTRIAL CORP., LTD.
    Inventors: Ju Zhen Lin, Ya Pin Kuo
  • Patent number: 10780510
    Abstract: Foldable miter saws and a folding method of miter saws are disclosed. The foldable miter saws includes a base unit, a worktable, and a cutting unit. The cutting unit includes a support arm pivotally mounted on the worktable, a saw blade, and a driver. The miter saw folding method includes the step of biasing the cutting unit relative to the base unit and the step of rotating the support arm relative to the base unit and the worktable to change the cutting unit from a working position to a folded position, thus reducing the vertical space occupied by the cutting unit and facilitating delivery, storage and package of the foldable miter saws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: REXON INDUSTRIAL CORP., LTD.
    Inventors: Ju Zhen Lin, Ya Pin Kuo, Hung-Jung Chiang
  • Patent number: 10745870
    Abstract: A speed bump and a speed bump transportation system are provided. The speed bump comprises: a base; a cover disposed opposite to the base and configured to be movable relative to the base; an electric-power generation device associated with the cover to scavenge energy through the cover and convert the energy into electrical energy; a first detection device for detecting a force condition of the cover and sending a first detection signal to a communication device when the cover is pressed; the communication device electrically connected to the first detection device and for sending a first communication signal when receiving the first detection signal, wherein the electric-power generation device is electrically connected to the communication device and the first detection device respectively to supply electric-power to the communication device and the first detection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignees: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD., BEIJING BOE OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Desheng Xiang, Dawei Wang, Chao Yu, Gang Liu, Cuie Wang, Shuainan Liu, Jiaqiang Wang, Yajun Guo, Dong Wang
  • Patent number: 10323624
    Abstract: There is provided a spring-powered drive apparatus including a casing (102), an output shaft (103) mounted on the casing (102) in a relatively rotatable manner, a one way clutch (112) externally fitted on the output shaft (103) in the casing (102) and, a spiral spring (105, 107) housed in the casing and wound by turning of the output shaft (103) in the direction in which the one way clutch (112) transmits torque. Thus, there can be provided a compact spring-powered drive apparatus and a self-propelled caster that can be applied to a work cart or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: ENDO KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tomio Komaba
  • Patent number: 10182682
    Abstract: A beverage mixing system includes a housing, a sealing feature, a locking feature, and an agitator. The housing has an opening separating inner and outer surfaces and a boss that extends through the housing such that part of the outer surface forms an inner bore of the boss having a terminus pointing toward the opening. The agitator has a base, a shaft, and a mixing element coupled to the base such that the base, in cooperation with the sealing feature, circumferentially seals the opening of the housing to form a cavity defined by the inner surface. The shaft passes through the inner bore. The locking feature when engaged permits independent or simultaneous translational and rotational movement of the shaft while an area between the terminus of the boss and the shaft remains mechanically sealed during the movement against liquid or powder encroachment into a clean area of the inner bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: GUDPOD CORP.
    Inventors: Gian-Carlo Ochoa, Brendan J. Duffy, Chris Penna, Gary Van Deursen
  • Patent number: 10173606
    Abstract: A structure is for attaching an in-vehicle device including a display 20 standing on a dashboard 1 of a vehicle, and a controller 30 placed inside the dashboard 1. The structure includes a connecting bracket 40. The controller 30 is fixed to the dashboard 1. The controller 30 and the display 20 are connected together via the connecting bracket 40. The connecting bracket 40 is attachable to and detachable from the controller 30 and the display 20 independently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshiteru Yoshimura, Yasuhiro Hidaka, Masaki Matsumoto, Masato Sadano, Masao Tanimoto, Takashi Fukumaru, Keizo Takahashi
  • Patent number: 9863276
    Abstract: An actuator housing is provided. The actuator housing may comprise a body, and a first side of the body including a first pin interface and a first threaded hole clocked relative to the first pin interface. The first pin interface and the first threaded hole may be configured to interface with a solenoid housing. A second side of the body may be orthogonal to the first side. The second side may include a circular geometry with a cylindrical member disposed central to the circular geometry. A toggle assembly interface may be recessed in the second side and disposed within the cylindrical member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Christopher S. Prokup, David G. Bannon, Mark A. Osborn, Gregory J. Bradley
  • Patent number: 9599098
    Abstract: Described is a spring mechanism. The spring mechanism includes a leaf spring housing with leaf springs radially disposed within the leaf spring housing. The leaf springs being flexible between a rest state and tension state. A winding mechanism is engaged with the leaf springs for causing the leaf springs to flex from the rest state to the tension state. The winding mechanism includes a pushing pin wheel with a plurality of pushing pins protruding therefrom that rest against the leaf springs. The pushing pin wheel is rotatable such that rotation of the pushing pin wheel causes the leaf springs to flex from the rest state to a tension state. Release of the tension (i.e., when the leaf springs return to the rest state from the tension state) causes rotation of the leaf spring housing, which causes rotation of a corresponding release gear set and output drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Inventor: Charles Chongmu Kim
  • Patent number: 9537372
    Abstract: A method for applying frequency resonance to electric power generation implemented by using the kinetic energy of a vehicle includes, a sprung vehicle body, through a free vibration at an inherent frequency thereof, exciting a hollow heavy-object supporting plate to have frequency resonance or effective vibration, in which the sprung vehicle body is provided with a vertical elastic system, the hollow heavy-object supporting plate is supported by the sprung vehicle body, also provided with a vertical elastic system, and equipped with a kinetic energy generator, and the inherent frequency of the hollow heavy-object supporting plate is same as or similar to that of the sprung vehicle body; the sprung vehicle body transfers the kinetic energy of vibration to the hollow heavy-object supporting plate and the hollow heavy-object supporting plate resonated by being excited drives the kinetic energy generator arranged on the hollow heavy-object supporting plate to generate electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Yiyong Yang
  • Patent number: 9534587
    Abstract: A system is disclosed herein. The system having a backdrive assembly that includes a spring body retainer having a first body portion, the spring body retainer configured for rotational movement about an axis. A biasing member is provided that is configured to exert a backdriving force on the spring body retainer. A spring leg retainer is provided having a second body portion and a plurality of projections, the spring leg retainer being configured to incrementally apply a preload torque to the biasing member. A spring locking plate is operably connected to the spring leg retainer, the spring locking plate being configured to engage at least one of the plurality of projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: INTEVA PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventors: Carlos I. Tostado, Donald Michael Perkins
  • Patent number: 9511876
    Abstract: An actuator housing is provided. The actuator housing may comprise a body. A first side of the body may include a first pin interface and a first threaded hole clocked relative to the first pin interface. The first pin interface and the first threaded hole may be configured to interface with a solenoid housing. A second side the body may be disposed adjacent the first side. The second side may include a toggle assembly interface configured to receive a toggle assembly. A third side of the body may be disposed adjacent the first side and the second side. The third side may include an adapter interface configured to receive an adapter for the toggle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher S. Prokup, David G. Bannon, Mark A. Osborn, Gregory J. Bradley
  • Patent number: 9498017
    Abstract: A power generation device includes a first pivot arm having a shank extendable in a predetermined direction, and a rack arranged along the predetermined direction, wherein the shank has a slot between the rack and an end portion of the shank; a second pivot arm having a first end portion coupled with the end portion of the shank at a first pivot; and a third pivot arm having a first end portion coupled with a second end portion of the second pivot arm at a second pivot, and a second end portion of the third pivot arm coupled with the slot of the shank at a third pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Inventors: Che Wei Lin, He Chen Chen
  • Patent number: 9244437
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for winding a timepiece by means of the crown, said device including: a body having at least two housings inside which are respectively arranged a motor, a rechargeable battery, and an electronic control circuit, means for driving the crown disposed at one of the ends of the body of the device and secured to said motor, intended to rotatably drive said timepiece crown, According to the invention, the device includes a spring placed between said battery and said motor to permit said motor to slide in its housing with said drive means inside the body of said device, said motor being configured to slide into at least two positions, including: a rest position in which said motor is not supplied with power, and an operating position in which said motor is supplied with power in order to start the rotation of said drive means when said drive means are engaged and pressed onto the crown of said watch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Omega SA
    Inventors: Luc-Alain Grandjean, Antoine Hirschi, Bastien Paratte, Maxence Perret-Gentil
  • Patent number: 9119482
    Abstract: The present invention describes a baby carrier rocking device. In one embodiment, the device includes a housing with an imbedded motor, MP3 player, and related components. The housing may feature various shapes and designs, and comprises an aperture at the top portion thereof. The aperture is adapted to hold a first end of an elongated arm therein. The second end of the elongated arm is adapted to rock a baby carrier. In operation, the motor actuates the elongated arm so that it extends upward at a regular interval, contacting a baby carrier and thereby pushing the same in a rocking motion. Each time the elongated arm is extended upward, it falls back down via gravity. In this way, the present invention provides parents or caregivers with a hands-free way to rock a baby carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Inventor: Steve M. Cornmesser
  • Patent number: 9101887
    Abstract: A mixing apparatus and system includes a hub, a plurality of blades, and a respective hinge for each blade to pivotally secure each blade to the hub. Each hinge including a lock having a tab and a detent to secure the respective blade in an operating conformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: SPX FLOW
    Inventors: Stephen L. Markle, Michael E. McCarroll
  • Patent number: 9067021
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a needleless injector. The needleless injector includes a piston shaft with a plurality of holders on an outer surface in a circumferential direction; a cylinder assembly which slidably receives and supports the piston shaft in the forward and backward directions; and a plurality of balls which are received in the cylinder assembly and disposed around the piston shaft, the plurality of balls being movable in a radial direction and inserted into the plurality of holders when the piston shaft is moved in the backward direction. The injector also includes a trigger button slidably coupled to a rear end of the cylinder assembly to form a trigger end interrupting the movement of the balls inserted into the holders in the radial direction, the trigger button releasing the interruption of the trigger end when the piston shaft is slid in the forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Inventors: Min-Su Cho, Chang-Hee Lee
  • Patent number: 8936063
    Abstract: A system for safely and effectively winding a garage door spring features a hub assembly having a cylindrical hub with a cylindrical channel located there through. The hub assembly features a wheel gear located around the hub and a plurality of engagement prongs designed to snuggly engage a torsion spring winding cone. The hub assembly is divided into a first hub component and a second hub component. The system features a base with a semi-cylindrical notch and an arcuate lid pivotally located thereon. A plurality of support rollers are adjustably located around an inside of the notch and the lid. The hub assembly is positioned on the support rollers. A worm gear that interfaces with the wheel gear is attached to a drive shaft assembly that features a drive shaft that extends from the base for remote operation of the worm gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventors: Jerry E. Trujillo, Ernest Scott Turner
  • Patent number: 8813915
    Abstract: An energy storing device is disclosed. In the energy storing device of the present invention, energy from an energy generating unit is stored in the form of spring torsion and then is output steadily. The energy storing device of the present invention includes a plurality of cog-wheels, a plurality of torsion magnitude limiting units, a plurality of single-directional input bearings, a plurality of energy storing units and a plurality of speed enhancing cog-wheels. Each of the energy storing units includes at least two end rotational disc portions, which are connected with each other co-axially. A leaf spring unit is provided between each pair of rotational disc portions and one end of the leaf spring unit is bent in an opposite direction. In addition, the energy storing units may be connected in series or in parallel to increase the efficiencies in energy storage and energy output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Chuy-Nan Chio
  • Patent number: 8689942
    Abstract: The technology is directed to an energy storage and release system that stores energy and enables a repeatable and accurately timed release of energy. A shaft member supports a drive assembly, a locking assembly and a lever member there between. The lever member and locking assembly are attached to the shaft. The drive assembly rotates freely about the shaft and loads energy into a torsion spring in communication with the lever member. The torsion spring connects at one end to the drive assembly and at the other end to the lever member without contacting the shaft member. The locking assembly provides a triggered release mechanism for selective release of stored energy from the torsion spring that accordingly rotates the lever member. The system can automatically reload the torsion spring once a signal is received from any number of events including, when the rotating lever member contacts a stop member or limit sensor that signals the end of travel for the lever member in either rotational directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Richard A. McGrail
  • Patent number: 8567567
    Abstract: A winding tool for tightening a torsion spring for a sectional overhead door. The winding tool features two half hub assembles that wrap around an overhead door shaft, wherein a translational sprocket is disposed on the hub assemblies. The hub assemblies connect to the winding cone of a torsion spring via fingers that engage the hub assemblies. A winding box is removably attached to the hub assemblies. The winding box features a worm gear that engages the translational sprocket. A handle bar can be rotated with a drill to cause rotation of the worm gear. Rotation of the worm gear causes rotation of the translational sprocket and ultimate winding of the torsion spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Ernest Scott Turner, Jerry E. Trujillo
  • Patent number: 8464838
    Abstract: In accordance with embodiments, there are provided systems and method for In accordance with embodiments, there are provided systems and method for generating mechanical movement that includes a resilient member having an original shape. A bulwark is connected to the resilient member. A system is provided to selectively apply a torsional force to the resilient member using capillary forces to rotate the resilient member with respect to the bulwark. This places the resilient member in a deformed shape. The system also selectively terminates the capillary forces allowing the resilient member to return to the original shape. These and other embodiments are described more fully below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Brooks
  • Patent number: 8251183
    Abstract: In an electricity generating device by applying vehicle weight, a rolling vehicle wheel is weighting down on a pressure receiver to actuate a driving mechanism having a restoring function. It is then able to provide a unidirectional rotating torque to drive a generating device to produce electrical power. The mechanical power transmission is performed by a transmission gear unit composed of a driving wheel and a follower wheel interconnected each other with a transmission means therebetween. When the vehicle weight is applied to the driving mechanism by pressing the vehicle wheel on the pressure receiver, the driving mechanism is forced to downwardly urge a ratchet wheel and a driving wheel to rotate that in turn causes the rotation of the follower wheel through the transmission means thereby driving the generating device to operate to produce electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Ming-Cheng Chen
  • Publication number: 20120125717
    Abstract: The technology is directed to an energy storage and release system that stores energy and enables a repeatable and accurately timed release of energy. A shaft member supports a drive assembly, a locking assembly and a lever member there between. The lever member and locking assembly are attached to the shaft. The drive assembly rotates freely about the shaft and loads energy into a torsion spring in communication with the lever member. The torsion spring connects at one end to the drive assembly and at the other end to the lever member without contacting the shaft member. The locking assembly provides a triggered release mechanism for selective release of stored energy from the torsion spring that accordingly rotates the lever member. The system can automatically reload the torsion spring once a signal is received from any number of events including, when the rotating lever member contacts a stop member or limit sensor that signals the end of travel for the lever member in either rotational directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Richard A. McGrail
  • Patent number: 8181545
    Abstract: An actuator assembly having a housing, at least one rotating gear member including a cam, and an actuator device operably connected to the rotating gear member, operably contained in the housing, for rotating the gear member. Also included is a bearing member operably associated with the cam such that when the actuator device is actuated for rotation of the gear member, the bearing member moves on the cam for providing relative motion between the bearing member and the rotating gear member. The actuator device is selected from a torque generating device or a device having linear movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Keefover, Murray Busato
  • Patent number: 8132651
    Abstract: An inexpensive apparatus for powering a toy plane including a rubber band motor which is connectable to the plane's propeller and to a winding mechanism, including a gear mechanism which is activated by a handle. As the handle is repeatedly squeezed and released by the user, the motor is wound up. An anti-reversing ratchet is coupled with the motor to prevent unwinding until the user wishes to launch the plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Spin Master Ltd.
    Inventors: Charles Sink, Jeffrey James Corsiglia
  • Patent number: 8083032
    Abstract: There is provided a power source device capable of obtaining power not only when springs or the like return but also when a handle for winding up the springs or the like are operated. The power source device comprises a main shaft connected to both the handle and a main power generation device, an auxiliary shaft connected to an auxiliary power generation device arranged side by side in parallel with the main shaft, the main spring and the auxiliary spring requiring less load to wind up than the main spring being installed between the main shaft and the auxiliary shaft via drums such that accumulation and release of elastic force of the springs are alternated on both shafts, wherein when the main shaft is normally rotated by the handle, elastic force accumulated in the auxiliary spring is applied in the direction of rotation of the main shaft as releasing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Koichi Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 8038038
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system provides a sprayer. The system has a container with liquid fluid, such as used in lawn and garden weed control and fertilization. The sprayer has a handle containing a spring engine and a pump for liquid from the container. The spring engine has a flat spring having a spring band extending from two coils wound on two shafts. One of the coils is manually wound by a crank connected to a shaft on which the coil is connected. The other shaft is connected to the pump by a rotary cam driver. Liquid is sucked by the pump into a pump chamber during part of a cycle of rotation of the other shaft when the coils are unwound and the liquid is pumped out of the chamber during the other part of the cycle of rotation to a sprayer head on the sprayer handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Chapin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald R. Hillhouse, James W. Campbell
  • Patent number: 7866367
    Abstract: A control device for blinds includes a transmission unit, a scrolling unit and a tilting unit, the transmission unit includes a case in which a coil spring and a gear unit are received. The coil spring is connected between the gear unit and the case. The scrolling unit includes two scrolling rods which are rotated with a transmission rod. Each scrolling rod has a lift cord wrapped thereon and extending through slats of the blinds. The tilting unit includes two tilt members connected to two respective end sections of the two scrolling rods. Two tilt cords have two respective positioning members which are clamped in two clamp grooves of the two tilt members and the tilt cords extend through the slats. The gears in the gear unit can be adjusted so as to cooperate with slats of different weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Ching Feng Home Fashions Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Wen Ying Liang, Sheng Ying Hsu, Wu Chung Nien, Chien Chih Huang
  • Publication number: 20100223928
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for conversion of energy, to a module for storage of energy, and to a method for conversion and storage of energy, in which provision is made that at least one module, which is designed to store mechanical energy, is held in a number of holding stations of at least one device which is designed for conversion of energy, such that the least one module, which is held in one of the holding stations, is connected simultaneously via a transmission of the at least one device to a first energy converter and to a second energy converter, such that it is possible simultaneously to transfer energy from the first energy converter to the at least one module and to transfer energy from the at least one module to the second energy converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Ralf Roppelt
  • Publication number: 20100193297
    Abstract: In accordance with embodiments, there are provided systems and method for In accordance with embodiments, there are provided systems and method for generating mechanical movement that includes a resilient member having an original shape. A bulwark is connected to the resilient member. A system is provided to selectively apply a torsional force to the resilient member using capillary forces to rotate the resilient member with respect to the bulwark. This places the resilient member in a deformed shape. The system also selectively terminates the capillary forces allowing the resilient member to return to the original shape. These and other embodiments are described more fully below.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Brooks
  • Publication number: 20100071999
    Abstract: A spring motor for driving a driving shaft, comprising a spring operating gear; a spring about a rotation axis; a gear train; and a coupling arm connecting the rotation axis to the driving shaft by the gear train to transmit energy released by the spring from the rotation axis to the driving shaft, activating the driving shaft into rotation at a first speed. This spring motor allows storing energy in a spring; transmitting the stored energy to a driving shaft by linking an axis of the spring to the driving shaft by engaging the gear train; and reloading the spring; and reloading the spring by using a motor or transmitting energy from the driving shaft to the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Michel LECLERC
  • Publication number: 20090229921
    Abstract: An inexpensive apparatus for powering a toy plane including a rubber band motor which is connectable to the plane's propeller and to a winding mechanism, including a gear mechanism which is activated by a handle. As the handle is repeatedly squeezed and released by the user, the motor is wound up. An anti-reversing ratchet is coupled with the motor to prevent unwinding until the user wishes to launch the plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Spin Master Ltd.
    Inventors: Charles Sink, Jeffrey James Corsiglia
  • Publication number: 20090218172
    Abstract: My invention makes it easy to force units of mass to jump-up along a vertical line by means of seesaw-like frames, central stationary gear, planetary gears, springs, cylinders and pistons, blockers, triggers, cables, pulleys and cable's slack takers, in order to create imbalance on the same side of the frames that propels the frames to rotate continuously in the same direction and, thus, provide usable rotational energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Ezra Shimshi
  • Publication number: 20090107772
    Abstract: A sonically controlled motor has a rotating shaft and an escapement selectively allowing or denying rotation there-of. An acoustic element cooperates with the escapement such that selective operation of the acoustic element selectively allows or denies rotation of, or controls the rotational speed of the shaft. A machine, such as a toy, having one or more moving elements may be controlled by the motor such that selective operation of the acoustic element selectively allows or denies movement of the machine. Alternation of the volume and/or frequency of the acoustic element may be used to alter the operation of the motor, or the motor may be operated according to the beat and qualities of music. The motor may be operated by remote control of the acoustic element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: Lund and Company Invention, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Bruce Lund, Paul Paulson
  • Patent number: 7464627
    Abstract: An actuator and door latch system incorporating the same. The actuator moves a door latch between locked and unlocked positions with rapidity using a gear train directly coupled to an actuator motor or energy stored in an energy storage element such as a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Knight Ko, Brian Ganter, Thomas P Schregardus, Eric Beishline, William H. Fort
  • Publication number: 20080132302
    Abstract: A drive mechanism (101) for a portable electronic device (102), such as a mobile telephone or personal digital assistant, includes at least one wheel (113) engaging at least one track (103). In one embodiment, two tracks (103,104) are coupled to a first housing (105), while a pair of wheels (113,114) are coupled to a shaft (106) which is coupled to a second housing (107) by way of a shaft retaining member (111). The wheels (113,114), which may include wheel teeth (224,225) disposed about the perimeter (226,227) of the wheels that engage track teeth (112), pass along the tracks (103,104) to cause the first housing (105) to slide open or closed relative to the second housing (107). A preloaded tensioning device (108), which in one embodiment comprises to oppositely wound coiled springs disposed concentrically about the shaft (106) bias the first housing (105) and the second housing (107) towards an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Kevin Schechtel, Jon Godston, Mark Oliver
  • Publication number: 20080078622
    Abstract: A cam mechanism is provided with a forward rotation plate and a reverse rotation plate. The respective plates are urged by the respective coil springs in the directions opposite to each other. When the number of rotations of the front wheels becomes great relative to the number of rotations of the rear wheels, the forward rotation plate rotates. Thus, a main cam which is urged by the respective coil springs toward the neutral position rotates together with the forward rotation plate when the forward rotation plate rotates. When the number of rotations of the rear wheels becomes great relative to the number of rotations of the front wheels, the reverse rotation plate rotates. Thus, the main cam which is urged by the respective coil springs toward the neutral position rotates together with the reverse rotation plate when the reverse rotation plate rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Masakatsu KANI, Akio MATSUMOTO
  • Patent number: 7310844
    Abstract: This application includes a number of embodiments of a spring powered toothbrush for cleaning teeth. A wind-up spring is located in the base of the toothbrush which spring provides power for a gear train including a drive shaft assembly that is designed to bring about rapid movement of the brush portion of the toothbrush to aid in cleaning the teeth. The drive mechanism is controlled by a spring biased push button in the toothbrush housing. In one version the brush portion of the toothbrush includes a rotatable brush section that is gear driven by the drive shaft. In another version the upper portion of the toothbrush is vibrated by an offset weight connected to the drive shaft and in a third version the drive shaft includes an offset weight that acts to oscillate a movable brush section by intermittent engagement between the; weight and brush section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: REHCO LLC
    Inventor: Steven Rehkemper
  • Patent number: 7234710
    Abstract: The present invention provides a manually powered drive assembly for a vehicle. A foot crank winds a helical torsion spring through a system of shafts and sprockets in a first direction. By releasing a brake applied to a wheel, or wheels, of the vehicle, the wound spring transfers a rotational movement from a spring shaft to a freewheel sprocket coaxially aligned with the axle supporting a wheel, so that the rotational movement upon the wheel assists a user in manually moving the vehicle. The drive assembly may be advantageously used with a wheelbarrow to assist in building up momentum for moving heavy loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventors: Nick C. Benton, Michael L. Gray
  • Patent number: 7140341
    Abstract: Energy storing starter assembles include a hub, a pulley, and a torsion spring adapted to resiliently link the hub to the pulley. The torsion spring includes a first end portion adapted to be linked to the hub and a second end portion adapted to be linked to the pulley. The torsion spring further includes at least one resilient member with a first section including a first winding and a second section including a second winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Aktiebolaget Electrolux
    Inventor: Goran Dahlberg
  • Patent number: 7066301
    Abstract: A manual override mechanism is presented for a motor-driven linear actuator that allows the output rack and pinion of the actuator to be manually positioned. Once positioned, the output may be locked by a locking mechanism to prevent this output from translating to its quiescent position. When incorporated in a spring-return linear actuator, the manual override may be used to apply a preload on the spring before the driven device is connected. When the actuator is used to drive a valve or damper, the preload applies a positive closing force on the valve or damper in its zero position to ensure a tight closure of the valve or damper. The locking mechanism engages the gear train and opposes the closing force applied by the spring return of the actuator. To disengage the locking mechanism automatically, the motor applies a forward kick to the gear train. Manual disengagement is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Invensys Building Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Hung-Sun Oh, Gerald R. Parsons
  • Patent number: 6935987
    Abstract: A wheeled vehicle incorporating a control methodology for regulating the power input and output of an inertial energy storage device, specifically a flywheel. The control methodology utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and comprises control of the CVT speed ratio based on feedback of the CVT output torque. The CVT ratio control signal is based on an error signal equal to the difference between operator input and CVT output torque. Operator input may be a positive or a negative value, a negative value corresponding to regenerative power. Operator input corresponds to required force or torque analogous to throttle opening or braking effort. This methodology continuously synchronizes the speeds of the inertial energy storage device and vehicle wheels, keeping frictional losses to a minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Richard A. Booth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6896104
    Abstract: An improved elastic motor is disclosed having a constant torque characteristic. The motor utilizes a reel with elastic stretched to its maximum tension. Each unit length of the elastic is allowed to relax back to its normal state while generating work in a process that will continue until the wheel is fully unwound. The present invention will ease design of mobile devices and the like by providing a power source having a predictable and stable output characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Vortex HC, LLC
    Inventor: Lewis Illingworth
  • Patent number: 6880677
    Abstract: An elastic energy storage device has an energy storage unit which has an axial rod penetrating through a plurality of rotary disks and spiral springs. One side of each rotary disk is protruded with an outer edge buckling post and another side thereof is installed with an inner edge buckling post. Each two rotary disks are installed with a spiral spring. The casing is installed with a unidirectional power output shaft for driving the first rotary disk of the energy storage unit to rotate. The speed change box has an input shaft and an output shaft. The input shaft is connected or engaged to the rotary disk; and one of the rotary disks of the energy storage unit at an innermost side has a function of driving the input shaft to rotate. Thereby, the at least one spiral spring stores energy through a flywheel and then release the energy steadily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Chuy-Nan Chio