Clamp Patents (Class 248/316.1)
  • Patent number: 8398041
    Abstract: Generally, a mounting bracket for mounting a mountable object is disclosed. The mounting bracket includes a baseplate has a substantially flat mounting surface and an opposite outward-facing surface. A ledge extends a first distance from the outward-facing surface to support the mountable object. A mounting bracket locking component adapted to frictionally engage a mountable object locks the mountable object in place. Additionally, a stabilizing member extending a second distance from the outward-facing surface contacts the mountable object to help limit movement of the object during use. The mounting bracket may be used with a material dispenser in a wall mountable material dispensing system. The wall mountable material dispensing system may be packaged as a kit wherein the mounting bracket is packaged within the material dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Dale Brinkdopke, Ryan Leslie Fulscher, Robert Samuel Schlaupitz, Christine Marie Cowell, David James Wilks, Elizabeth Oriel Bradley
  • Patent number: 8387926
    Abstract: A support arrangement, operable to clamp a cam tube for a drum brake assembly in position relative to an adjacent vehicle component, includes a first jaw having a first pair of arms, each of which has an one opening in an inclined end section, a second jaw having a second pair of arms, each of which has an opening in an inclined end section, and a base associated with the vehicle component and having a third pair of arms. Each of the third pair of arms also has an opening in its end section. Bolts or other such fastener elements are receivable within aligned sets of openings in the first, second, and third pairs of arms, permitting displacement of the first and second jaws relative to the base upon adjustment of the fasteners so that the jaws grip the tube and clamp the tube in its proper position. A clamping process is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLC
    Inventors: Thomas L. Runels, Troy A. Flodin
  • Publication number: 20130048822
    Abstract: A bracket positioned on one side of a membrane or surface is adjustable from the other side of the surface to permit the position of an item supported by the bracket to be readily adjusted relatively to the surface. The bracket has a base to which an arm is movably attached. The arm moves between an open and a closed position to permit the item to be received by the bracket. In the closed position the item is clamped between the base and the arm. A finger is mounted on the base and is movable into and out of engagement with a contact surface on the arm. When the finger engages the contact surface it secures the arm in the closed position and effects the clamping action which holds the item in position. The finger and arm are readily accessible to permit adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Yi Liu, Shuo Peng
  • Patent number: 8376303
    Abstract: A support includes a base, an upper cover connected to the base, a support plate, and a base. The upper cover includes a recess for receiving a bottom of an electronic device, and two openings defined in a bottom of the recess at two opposite ends of the recess for movably receiving pressing members. A pair of pressing members are respectively moveably received in the two openings. Each of the pair of pressing members includes a protruding post rotatably connected to the base. Two elastic members arrange in the base to respectively apply a recoiling, spring force to the pressing members when compressing and releasing. When urged by an electronic device, the pressing members deflect downward to form a first receiving space; and when the electronic device is removed, the pressing members are recoiled by the elastic members and forms a second receiving space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhi-Gang Yang, Hui Yuan, Ping Yu
  • Patent number: 8371550
    Abstract: An equipment holder is provided with an optional grid function for positioning a first cabin component of an aircraft relative to a second cabin component of the aircraft and for attaching the two cabin components to each other. The equipment holder includes, but is not limited to an attachment element, a fixing element, and a position determination device. In this arrangement the attachment element is designed to attach the equipment holder to the first cabin component. The fixing element is designed to fix a position of the equipment holder relative to the second cabin component. Furthermore, the position determination device is designed to discontinuously indicate the position of the equipment holder relative to the second cabin component with a position signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Horst, Benjamin Landes, Anja Nitsche
  • Publication number: 20130032679
    Abstract: An accessory adapter capable of attaching to a cargo accessory management system is shown and described. The accessory adapter may include a body member and a clamping member attached to the body member, where a portion of the cargo accessory management system is capable of being wedgingly secured between the clamping member and body member. The accessory adapter may also include an accessory adapter body selectively attached to the body member, where the accessory adapter body is capable of securing an accessory to the cargo accessory management system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Brian Wayne Ward, Gail Rae Matheus, Sean Michael Phillips
  • Patent number: 8366067
    Abstract: This invention is a wall mounting system which securely mounts panels and displayed objects to a wall, using a variety of components which can be efficiently attached to a universal rail plate which is standard to a particular embodiment of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: John Reed Felton
  • Publication number: 20130026324
    Abstract: A holding device including a hub and a plurality of grappling assemblies attached thereto. Each grappling assembly includes a tension member and a hook connected to the tension member. The hook is adapted to engage an edge of the item. The hook includes a body portion and a pair of arms extending therefrom. The body portion includes a cavity with first and second open ends. The tension member extends into the first open end and a jaw fitting extends into the second open end, wherein the jaw fitting is operative to grasp the tension member. The tension member extends around a thimble that is attached to the hub. The thimble may comprise an arcuate channel extending around an aperture formed through the thimble. The thimble may be rotatably attached to the hub with a fastener extending through the hub and the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: BOOMERANG ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher E. Fischer, Ho-Tsang Li
  • Patent number: 8356787
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for vertically lifting and supporting a main wedge of a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) jet pump restrainer assembly, to ensure that the wedge is no longer contacting a restrainer bracket of the restrainer assembly. A main wedge clamp with an upper and lower clamp jaw is used to attach to the upper support of the restrainer assembly, the lower clamp jaw being fashioned with a prong or prongs that fit underneath the crown of the main wedge and provide the vertical lift for the main wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas LLC
    Inventor: Michael S. Defilippis
  • Patent number: 8356784
    Abstract: A method and fixtures for holding natural or artificial material which can be used by hunters or other nature observers to construct a camouflage screen. The fixture may include a clamp which can be attached to any existing stand, support structure or other tree branch as necessary to obtain optimal concealment, or a stake which can be anchored in the ground. Each clamp has two branch holders, which may be arranged at alternating angles or rotatably connected to the clamp. Each stake may have one or more branch holders, which may be fixed or rotatable. The branch holders may have set screws with knobs permitting branches to be secured at the optimal angle and position to conceal the hunter or nature observer and to resemble the growth pattern of natural foliage. The branch holders may also be rotatable to allow the user to further customize the camouflage screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Carnivore Hunting Products, LLC
    Inventors: Corey J. Doll, John E. Schindlbeck
  • Patent number: 8353745
    Abstract: An apparatus for the extraction of gases has a flexible duct with an interior therein, a polymeric support extending in the interior of the flexible duct, a first anchor that secures an end of the polymeric support, a second anchor that secures an end of the flexible duct, and a duct connector. The first anchor secures the end of the polymeric support to the duct connector. The second anchor secures the end of the flexible duct to the duct connector. The polymeric support is elongated. The polymeric support has a taper and a thickness suitable for holding the flexible duct in a fixed position. The polymeric support is formed of a polycarbonate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Bryan Rossnagel
  • Publication number: 20130001927
    Abstract: A baby carriage includes a frame and an accommodating mechanism. The accommodating mechanism is disposed on the frame and used for accommodating a mobile device. The accommodating mechanism includes a base and a clamping member. The clamping member is movably disposed on the base and used for clamping the mobile device on the base. This invention also discloses an accommodating mechanism having two crossing recesses for accommodating the mobile device in different orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Dylan Anthony Mellinger
  • Patent number: 8342468
    Abstract: A drink container holding device for permitting articles and a beverage to be stored on a music stand includes a frame. At least one mounting assembly is coupled to the frame. The mounting assembly engages the stand to mount the frame to a stand. A sleeve is coupled to the frame. The sleeve has a beverage aperture extending therein through an upper end of the sleeve. The beverage aperture receives a drink container to allow the sleeve to support the drink container adjacent to the stand when the frame is mounted on the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Mark B. Strickland
  • Patent number: 8336834
    Abstract: Provided is an electrical wire fixing member that can be assembled in a simple manner with the reduced number of parts, and is capable of obtaining a sufficient lap amount, which can further reduce the number of parts. In an electrical wire fixing band 1 that secures an electrical wire 20, the first flange 3 is provided at a tip of the one end 2a of the body 2 in a shape of a ring, with both ends overlapping with each other along the circumference of the body. A second flange 4 is provided at the other end 2b. A protruding piece 5 is provided in a direction where the other end 2b becomes more distant from the one end 2a. A locking piece 6 is provided closer to the one end than the tip of the other end 2b is.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Matsumoto, Hajime Katou, Takashi Tsukamoto
  • Publication number: 20120312936
    Abstract: A holding device is provided for holding a tablet electronic device and includes a retention seat, which has left and right side faces and a lower face at each of which a clamping member is provided. Each clamping member has an inner end movably received in an interior space of the retention seat and forms a toothed rack mating a toothed wheel, whereby the clamping members are movable simultaneously. The clamping members have outer ends forming pawls extending beyond side faces of the retention seat, whereby with the tablet electronic device positioned on the holding device, the clamping members are moved to have pawls thereof engaging and thus retaining the tablet electronic device in position without undesirably falling off the holding device and thus being damaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Ming Hua HUANG
  • Patent number: 8302324
    Abstract: A hair dryer includes a housing, a fan unit, a heating element, a motor and a handle. The housing is the body of the hair dryer and has an inlet end and an outlet end. The motor rotates the housing relative to the handle in an oscillating manner. The fan unit is mounted in the housing so that air from vents at the inlet end pass through the fan unit to be blown out through the outlet end of the housing. As such, the housing moves without requiring any movement of the user's hand, wrist, or arm. The handle also has a controller for activating operation, adjusting speed, and setting temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Stella Sharon Connelly
  • Publication number: 20120260844
    Abstract: A tilted gauge head for indicating liquid level within a container is operatively connectable to a liquid level sending unit. The gauge head includes a mounting base adapted for connection to the container, an indicator dial assembly operatively connectable to the liquid level sending unit for indicating liquid level, and at least one bracket with a rear mounting wall connected to the mounting base and a front mounting wall connected to the indicator dial assembly. The mounting walls are oriented at an acute angle with respect to each other such that the indicator dial assembly is oriented or tilted at the acute angle with respect to the mounting base. In this manner, the indicator dial assembly can more easily be viewed by a user from an angle to thereby reduce parallax reading errors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: Rochester Gauges, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert G. Ross, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120258622
    Abstract: A radial clamp has a split ring clamp body with a first end and a second end opposing one another. Fingers extend from the first and second ends. The fingers have outer surfaces that follow a curvature of the clamp body. The fingers have tool engagement surfaces configured to be engaged and actuated by a tool. The clamp body is enlarged when the tool engagement surfaces are actuated by the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: TYCO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: LAWRENCE SE-JUN OH, NICHOLAS JOSEPH GARIBALDI
  • Patent number: 8282049
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holder for fixing additional parts to a fin-tube block (19) of a heat exchanger and/or for supporting the heat exchanger, said fin-tube block (19) comprising parallel front surfaces (19a, 19b) and lateral surfaces or lateral parts (21). According to the invention, the holder is embodied as a clip connection consisting of two lockable plastic clip elements (1, 10) which receive the fin-tube block (19) thereinbetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignees: Behr France Hambach S.A.R.L., Araymond et Cie.
    Inventors: Fabrice Kaczmarek, Jean-Claude Meyer, Patrick Jung
  • Publication number: 20120223204
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus includes a bracket receiving a disk drive, a locking member and a first resilient member. The bracket includes two first sidewalls and two second sidewalls. Each first sidewall is connected to the two second sidewalls and defines a number of through holes. The locking member includes two frames rotatably secured to the two first sidewalls. Each frame includes a number of pins. The first resilient member is connected to the two frames. Each frame is rotatable between a first position, where the pins are inserted in the bracket via the through holes, and a second position, where the pins are located out of the bracket. The first resilient member is deformed when each frame is rotated from the first position to the second position, and each frame is rotated from the second position to the first position when the first resilient member returns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY(ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiang YU, Xiao-Yong MA
  • Publication number: 20120223203
    Abstract: A strip-like protrusion and a corresponding strip-like groove are respectively configured at a first holder and a second holder of an APR plate device, such that as an APR plate is clamped by the first holder and the second holder via their clamping surfaces, the strip-like protrusion and the strip-like groove further push and slightly deform the APR plate for enhancement of the clamping toward the APR plate, thereby preventing problems of buckling or tearing of the APR plate due to insufficient clamping force of the holders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Chin-Tsai Chan, Chiang-Che Chang, Shen-You Yeh
  • Patent number: 8256734
    Abstract: The support apparatus includes a base, a pair of supporting arms, and a locking element. The base defines at least one engaging projection on a top thereof. Each supporting arm includes a body having a first curved end and a second curved end extending from the two opposite ends thereof. The first curved end is connected to the base and the second curved end is positioned in the locking element. The locking element defines a rail, and two curved protruding blocks extend from the two opposite ends of the rail. When the at least one engaging projection is engaged with a side of an external device, the supporting arms rotate relative to the base and the locking element sits on top of the external device, and the rail and the protruding blocks holds another side of the external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mu-Szu Chen
  • Publication number: 20120211626
    Abstract: A holder for holding an electronic device on a wrist includes a band which can be connected around the wrist and a case connected to the band for holding the electronic device securely. The case includes a first receptacle and at least one second receptacle. The first receptacle is used for securing the electronic device to the holder. The at least one second receptacle receives at least one accessory of the electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: TAI-SHAN ZHU, CHE-YU CHOU, CONG-BING ZHOU
  • Patent number: 8245858
    Abstract: A sports equipment accessory holding device featuring a generally pentagonal-shaped base; an extension platform extending outwardly from the front surface of the base; hooks extending forwardly from each the first and second side edges of the base; a two-prong bracket extending outwardly from the bottom edge of the base, wherein the extension platform, the hooks, and the two-prong bracket each function to hold an object; a first mounting component extending outwardly from the back surface of the base; and a second mounting component disposed on the back surface of the base below the first mounting component, wherein the first mounting component and second mounting component together function to engage a fence for mounting the holding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: John Doran
  • Patent number: 8240628
    Abstract: A holding apparatus has a main body, a longitudinal clamping member, and second and third clamping members. The first clamping member is slidably disposed on the main body, and the first clamping member has at least one pair of slanted sliding-tracks. The transverse clamping members are slidably disposed on the main body each having at least one sliding element slidably coupled to the slanted sliding-track of the longitudinal clamping member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Ming-Hsien Huang
  • Publication number: 20120199716
    Abstract: A luggage connector that may be used with a baby stroller or wheelchair to transport rolling luggage is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the connector includes a first arm and a second arm. Clamps are disposed at a distal end of each arm. The clamps are used to secure the connector to a handle of luggage and a portion of a frame such as a stroller or wheelchair frame. Each arm is adapted to rotate about a central axis so that each respective clamp may be rotated and positioned appropriately to secure the connector to the frame. In addition, a rotating hinge is provided to adjust to a desired angle between the two arms to accommodate the connector being secured to the frame and rolling luggage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Erica Youngblood
  • Publication number: 20120195062
    Abstract: An operation device comprises: a plurality of operation members attached to a common supporting member; and a plurality of inserting components having the same configurations with one another. The operation members include latching apertures for securing the inserting components to the operation members and include a plurality of kinds of structure to be attached to the common supporting member so that opening directions of the latching apertures are different from one another. The inserting components include a plurality of latching projections that protrude outward from a main body, and have configurations that can engage the latching apertures in any one of the operation members. The latching projections protrude from the main body in a plurality of directions corresponding to the opening directions of the latching apertures so that any one of the latching projections can engage the latching aperture in any one of the operation members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventors: Atsushi Kosemura, Yasushi Oonishi, Yuusuke Yoshida, Kenji Sakurai
  • Publication number: 20120193496
    Abstract: A holder for being placed by a handheld electronic device is disclosed. The holder includes a board having two long holes and two fastener assemblies separately corresponding to the long holes. Each of the fastener assemblies has a post penetrating the long hole, a bracket and a supporting pad. The bracket and supporting pad are disposed on two opposite sides of the board and at two ends of the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Chin-Chu LI
  • Publication number: 20120188739
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a card holder for receiving a chip card, and a housing defining a receiving groove for receiving the card holder. The card holder includes a fixing member and a receiving base positioned on the fixing member. The fixing member includes a base plate and a side wall substantially perpendicularly extending from an end of the base plate. The base plate forms a first positioning bar and a second positioning bar substantially parallel to each other, and the second positioning bar defines a positioning cutout. The receiving base is positioned on the fixing member. The receiving base forms a positioning hook, and the positioning hook has a locking protrusion engaging in the positioning cutout of the second positioning bar. The positioning hook is capable of being deformed to make the locking portion disengage from the positioning cutout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHUN-JEN LIN, MI-CHIEN CHEN
  • Patent number: 8226062
    Abstract: A support structure for supporting a display panel includes a support and a clamp. The support is rotatably coupled to the display panel. The clamp includes two clamping arms rotatably coupled to the support, a bolt and an adjusting nut. A slot is defined in each clamping arm. The bolt is extended through each slot and engaged with the adjusting nut. Therefore a distance between two distal ends of two clamping arms can be adjusted by screwing and unscrewing the adjusting nut along the bolt. A display device using the support structure is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hai-Yang Yu, Hong-Wei Zhu, Er-Zheng Zhao
  • Patent number: 8220764
    Abstract: A tank holding bracket mechanism positionable within a seat back of an emergency vehicle for holding therein of an air tank usable for emergency breathing situations which is attachable to the back of emergency personnel such as firefighters while sitting on the vehicle seats during transport. The holding bracket includes a pivoting head movable between an opened position allow entry of removal of a tank from the bracket mechanism and a closed position retaining a tank with respect to the bracket mechanism. A locking mechanism is adapted to selectively lock the head in the closed position to prevent release of the tank responsive to certain vehicle parameters, such as disengagement of an emergency brake or movement of the vehicle transmission from the park mode. The locking mechanism can be externally activated manually or electrically such as with a powered solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Michael P. Ziaylek
  • Patent number: 8210487
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a bracket, a pushing member having a pushing surface, a magazine member to fitting about a plurality of clamping rings, a sending member, a fixing member fixed to the bracket and a resisting member fixed to the fixing member. The fixing member defines a positioning hole for fixing the magazine member, with the clamping rings freely sliding through the positioning hole. The sending member includes two guiding rods fixed to the fixing member, two elastic elements fitting about the corresponding guiding rods, and a moving board slidably mounted to the guiding rods. The elasticity of the elastic elements urges the moving board to drive one of the plurality of clamping rings to resist against the resisting member. When the pushing member is moved towards the fixing member, the pushing surface pushes the one clamping ring to clamp a shaft of a connecting piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Miao Fan, Hong-Jun Feng, Peng Zhang, Yu-Bin Guo
  • Publication number: 20120145863
    Abstract: A supporting structure for portable electronic products is disclosed. The supporting structure includes a main body and a first supporting unit. The first supporting unit has a first finger portion and a second finger portion. The first supporting unit is disposed on one end of the main body. The first finger portion corresponds to the second finger portion. The supporting structure allows the user to easily and stably hold a portable electronic product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: HSIN-LIANG LIN
  • Patent number: 8196325
    Abstract: A thin, graphic support assembly comprising an elongated base rail and an elongated cover rail which come together around a board to form four sides of a frame. A spring mechanism is fully captured after the base rail and cover rail are assembled together, and the angle and position of the spring channel allows the hinge location to be at the top/outer edge of the frame. The elongated base rail and elongated cover rail can be oriented in a parallel relationship when closed for capturing a display panel or a perpendicular relationship when open for inserting or removing a display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Thomas P. Burrous, Rebecca C. Suciu, Paul P. Ellsworth, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Patent number: 8196886
    Abstract: A mechanism for gripping an article including a housing, a piston slidably housed within the housing, a plunger slidably housed within the housing, wherein the plunger is at least partially extendable out from the housing, the plunger including a gripping surface, at least one spring operatively arranged between the piston and the plunger for relating a change of a position of the piston to the plunger, and a cam eccentrically rotatable about an axis and operatively engaged with the piston for setting the position of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: REY Imaginations LLC
    Inventor: Richard E. Young
  • Publication number: 20120138764
    Abstract: A clamp for at least one plate element, with a first clamp part and a second clamp part, the clamp parts adjustable relative to each other between an open position and a clamping position for the plate element, and with at least one elastomer profile that is arranged between the two clamp parts and that has an area with a U-shaped cross section for gripping the plate element. The elastomer profile has a clamping section that is clamped between the two clamp parts when the clamp parts are in the clamping position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Lorcan KEMPLE
  • Publication number: 20120132774
    Abstract: A bracket assembly is provided for use in one example for joining a kitchen plinth to an end panel of a kitchen unit. The bracket assembly includes a first bracket part and a second bracket part. The first bracket part has a recess defined therein in which a protrusion member of the second bracket part is engaged therein in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: David Crampton
  • Publication number: 20120127379
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method that allow users to mount digital media players to screens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: INNOVELIS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Jeffrey Wengreen, Eric John Wengreen
  • Patent number: 8181928
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for fixing a rod-like apparatus in the field of mechanics. The existing problems of the device for fixing the rod-like apparatus, such as infirm fixation and low reliability, are addressed by using the device of the invention. The fixing device of the invention includes a body having a cavity in the interior. One or more notches having recessions are provided on the body. The notches have one or more holding pawls which could be opened and closed at the ends thereof. One or more positioning mechanisms are further provided in the body which could lock the holding pawls, in particular, lock the holding pawls when the notches of the body are closed by the holding pawls. The device of the invention could provide the benefits such as firm fixation, high reliability, an orderly and aesthetic appearance and relatively high practical value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Zhejiang Topsun Logistic Control Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Buqin Ruan
  • Patent number: 8177077
    Abstract: A supporting device for exhibiting golf clubs enabling the easy dismounting and storing of the golf clubs from and onto the supporting device for exhibition when users actually dismount the golf clubs from the supporting device for exhibition, hold them within their hands, and perform a test swing. The supporting device includes a plurality of guide parts for hooking the heads of golf clubs thereto and hooking parts connecting respective guide parts to each other, wherein when the clubs are hooked to the guide parts, they are always arranged in a specified direction at all times. The guide parts are so formed that the inlets of guide parts supporting suspended shafts of the clubs are opened in the front direction so that the shafts of the clubs can be suspended therefrom are visible from the front direction of the supporting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Waikeiwai Inc.
    Inventors: Heihachiro Yamamoto, Hitoshi Nishi, Yasushi Aoki
  • Patent number: 8177182
    Abstract: A wireless remote control device for a portable media device can include a touch-sensitive faceplate and a base section coupled to the faceplate such that the faceplate is rotatable relative to the base section. The base section can house electronic circuitry including a wireless transmitter that transmits signals to portable media device in response to a user touching the faceplate. Clamping feet can be attached to the base section, e.g., using hinges so that the wireless remote control device can be mountable on a vehicle steering wheel. The hinges can be movable in a lateral direction to vary the pitch between the clamping feet to accommodate various thicknesses of steering wheels. The clamping feet can be movable in an arcuate motion in order to clamp to or unclamp from the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Policarpo Wood, Anton Davydov
  • Publication number: 20120112026
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting UHV modules and attaching accessories thereto without welding and without obstructing any conflat ports includes a bracket attachable to an attachment feature without loss of vacuum. Embodiments permit arbitrary UHV module reorientation. In some embodiments, a supporting circular groove or series of groove segments is provided in the UHV module, and a clamping bracket fitted with holes meeting optical bench standards is attached to the groove by clamping two clamp segments together while fitting a tongue firmly into the groove. The supporting groove can be located in an extension terminating in a conflat flange, or in a separate UHV extender module. In other embodiments, the attachment feature is a plurality of threaded mounting holes that are not associated with conflat ports, do not require enlargement of the UHV module, and permit attachment of brackets without obstructing any conflat ports and without loss of vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: KIMBALL PHYSICS, INC.
    Inventor: Charles K. Crawford
  • Patent number: 8162343
    Abstract: A mounting device is shown for mounting components to a bicycle handlebar having a handlebar axis. The mounting device includes a mounting bracket mountable to the handlebar about the handlebar axis. The mounting bracket includes a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion hingedly connected to the first clamp portion to interiorly receive the handlebar. An interior channel is defined by spaced sidewalls and formed in a portion of the circumferential length of one of the first and second clamp portions, and a hole is formed through the clamp portion and opens to the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Martin Weiss, Scott McLaughlin, Paul Feuerstein, Matthew Morris
  • Patent number: 8146874
    Abstract: An adapter plate assembly which provides a convenient interface between a mounting support assembly for suspending an instrument driver robotic instrument system above a operating table. The adapter plate securely mounts to the operating table, and may be adjustable so that it can be adjusted to fit various sizes and models of operating tables. The adapter plate assembly comprises a main plate which rests on the surface of the operating table. A first clamp assembly which removably attaches to the operating table is mounted on one or more horizontal adjustment rods which are slidably received in one of the main plate in order to provide adjustability to the width of the adapter plate assembly. On the opposing end of the main plate, a second clamp assembly is coupled main plate. In order to secure the support assembly of a robotic instrument system, an adapter rail is also coupled to the main plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Hansen Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan L. Yu
  • Patent number: 8128047
    Abstract: A mounting base mechanism for releasably securing an accessory device to a mechanical structure having opposed oppositely angulated clamp surfaces. The mounting base mechanism defines a first clamp surface having clamping engagement with one of the angulated clamp surfaces. A clamp support structure projects laterally from the mounting base mechanism and provides support for a clamp actuating mechanism having a clamping plate. A retainer device supported by the clamp support structure is operative to move the clamping plate substantially linearly for clamping engagement of the clamp plate with the other of the oppositely angulated clamp surfaces. A keeper member prevents inadvertent separation of the retainer and clamping plate from the clamp support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Mark C. Larue
  • Patent number: 8128045
    Abstract: An improved beverage holding device that may be utilized by an individual on a recreational vehicle is provided. The improved beverage holding device may have a plurality of beverage holders whereby the beverage holders may be adaptable to hold a plurality of different sized beverage containers. Moreover, the improved beverage holder may be removably attached to the handlebars and/or external portion of a recreational vehicle to hold the beverages during use of the recreational vehicle. The device may utilize a plurality of mounting brackets that attach to a recreational vehicle and have an adjustable stem on the bracket to allow for movement of the entire assembly about the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Doyle Skaggs
  • Publication number: 20120049031
    Abstract: A mounting base mechanism for releasably securing an accessory device to a mechanical structure having opposed oppositely angulated clamp surfaces. The mounting base mechanism defines a first clamp surface having clamping engagement with one of the angulated clamp surfaces. A clamp support structure projects laterally from the mounting base mechanism and provides support for a clamp actuating mechanism having a clamping plate. A retainer device supported by the clamp support structure is operative to move the clamping plate substantially linerally for clamping engagement of the clamp plate with the other of the oppositely angulated clamp surfaces. A keeper member prevents inadvertent separation of the retainer and clamping plate from the clamp support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Mark C. Larue
  • Publication number: 20120047827
    Abstract: A clamp is disclosed for attaching solar panel grids to standing seam roof structures. The clamp may comprise a pair of opposing clamp halves having a plurality of inter-engageable projections and recesses. One or more fasteners engage the halves to draw the halves together. At one end of the clamp, a first set of recesses on the first clamp half may receive a first set of projections on the second half. At an opposite end of the clamp a second set of recesses on the first clamp half may receive a second set of projections on the second half. In the loosened condition, the first set of recesses may be engaged in the first set of recesses to act as a detent, while the second set of projections may be spaced a sufficient distance away from the second set of recesses to enable the clamp to be slid down onto the vertical seam portion of a standing seam roof. Tightening the fasteners then causes the second set of projections to deform the seam portion into the second set of recesses, fixing the clamp to the seam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: ATKORE INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Chad K. Zeilenga, Charles Olen Nehls
  • Publication number: 20120035638
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for surgery comprises a first arm member (110) and a second arm member (120) movable in relation to one another in a same planar through a pivoted portion (130), in an open and close position, which is controlled by a pair of handle (140 and 150); at least one through hole (190a or 190b) are made onto one of the arm member (110 or 120); and a first blade (160) and a second blade (170), each defined by a tip (161 and 171) and a body (162 and 172) as well as a base (163 and 173), perpendicularly extended in parallel from the first (110) and second arm members (120) respectively; wherein both blades (160 and 170) have substantially flat portion started from the tip (161 and 171) to the body (162 to 172) followed by an expanded portion around the base (163 and 173) attached on the arm member (110 and 120) that the expanded portion defines a groove therein enclosing the through hole (190a or 190b) in the close position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Vickneswaran Mathaneswaran, Hong Guan Ng
  • Publication number: 20120025683
    Abstract: An equipment enclosure for housing electronic components includes a front assembly having a front frame, the front assembly defining a front of the enclosure, and a rear assembly having a rear frame. The enclosure further includes at least two side brace members, each side brace member having a first end and a second, opposite end. A first connector is configured to releasably connect the first end of one of the side brace members to the front frame. A second connector is configured to releasably connect the second end of the one of the side brace members to the rear frame. Other embodiments and methods are further disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: AMERICAN POWER CONVERSION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jeffrey Lee Mattlin, Joseph H. Bergesch, Kevin Neil Thomas, Paul Thomas Smith, James S. Spitaels, Daniel Bryan