Abstract: Instruments for applying tension to a securing device, such as a cable or wire, for securing bones in place and fastening implants, such as plates, to bones. In some forms, the tensioning instrument is configured with minimal parts for ease of manufacturing and allowing single use applications. The instrument may include a pretensioning mechanism for applying desired preload before connecting a cable to be tensioned to the instrument. The instrument may be sized and configured to remain attached to a tensioned cable while other cables are connected to a bone. In another form, the instrument may be expandable to remove any slack from the securing device and apply tension thereto.

Abstract: A brush clearing assembly includes a mounting unit that may be coupled to a tractor. A hooking unit may be coupled to the tractor thereby facilitating the tractor to draw the hooking unit. The hooking unit is movably coupled to the mounting unit. The hooking unit may engage a trunk of a bush when the tractor backs toward the bush. The hooking unit slides laterally in the mounting unit when the hooking unit engages the trunk of the bush. Thus, the hooking unit slides along the trunk of the bush until the hooking unit passes beyond the trunk of the bush. The hooking unit removes the bush when the tractor drives forwardly from the bush.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a device for tensioning an apparatus for fusion, stabilization, and/or fixation of bones are disclosed. In one embodiment, a device for tensioning an orthopedic device is provided, the device comprising: a screw drive; a screw gear; a body portion comprising a first cam lever and a second cam lever; and a cable operatively connected to the orthopedic device and operatively connected to the body portion; wherein rotation of the screw gear causes translation of the screw drive.

Abstract: A system for pulling a subsea structure includes an adapter configured to be mounted to an upper end of a subsea pile. In addition, the system includes an interface assembly fixably coupled to the adapter. The interface assembly includes a first channel configured to receive a flexible tension member and a first chuck disposed in the first channel. The tension assembly includes a second channel configured to receive the flexible tension member and a second chuck disposed in the second channel. Each chuck is configured to pivot about a horizontal axis between an unlocked position allowing the flexible tension member to move in a first axial direction and a locked position preventing the tension member from moving in a second axial direction that is opposite the first axial direction.

Abstract: A portable support platform system and method for assembling the system are provided. The portable support platform system includes a support platform configured to receive theatrical devices and an orientation member attached to the support platform. The orientation member includes an arcuate surface configured to receive a flexible member. The flexible member is fixably attached to the orientation member at one or more locations along the arcuate surface to permit orientation and movement of the support platform when the flexible members are deployed or retracted.

Abstract: A tension transmitting device includes a covering body placed over a target drop cable from a side thereof; and a tension transmission belt having a first end secured on a first end side of the covering body and a second end used as a free end, the tension transmission belt receiving the tension during stringing or wiring operation on a free end side thereof. The free end of the tension transmission belt extends from a secured portion thereof secured to the covering body so as to run on a covering surface side of the covering body and is wound around the drop cable. The covering body includes a slit provided on a second end side thereof, and the slit has a side receiving opening through which the tension transmission belt is received in a width direction.

Abstract: A tool and method for removing a film from a surface is provided, wherein the tool can include a frame, a handle operably coupled to the frame, a number of wheels operably coupled to the frame, a cylinder rotatably coupled to the frame, an arm rotatably coupled to the frame, and a number of separating devices operably coupled to the arm. In some embodiments, the wheels can rotate about one or more axes parallel to the surface. The cylinder, which collects the removed film, rotates about an axis that can also be parallel to the surface. The arm can rotate about an axis that can also be parallel to the surface.

Abstract: A system for removing a forming pan from a concrete slab having integral joists. In some embodiments, the system includes a forklift powered by a power supply; and a pan puller supported thereon. The pan puller includes a motor receiving power from the power supply, a wheel driven to rotate by the motor, the wheel having a plurality of teeth adapted to engage and remove the forming pan from the joint, and a basket configured to receive and contain the removed forming pan.

Abstract: An extraction tool lifting apparatus having a load bearing coupling capable of being removably connected to an extraction tool; an hydraulic cylinder assembly being operatively connected at a first end to the load bearing coupling; a mounting bracket being operatively connected to the second end of the hydraulic cylinder assembly; three legs, each operatively connected at a first end to the mounting bracket; the load bearing coupling being adapted to be removably connected to an extraction tool having, an elongated base member having first and second ends, and a drill bit being removably attachable to a socket in the first end, the base member having a threaded portion being disposed approximate the first end, the second end being adapted to be removably connected to the load bearing coupling.

Abstract: The barbwire & barb-less wire dispenser of 5 spools at one time enables a person or persons to dispense anywhere from 600 ft. to a 1/4 of a mile of 5 separate wires & the 5 wire puller allows for the tighten of 5 said wires (barbwire or barb-less wire) at one time, allowing for all 5 wires to be tighten at the same tension with just one puller instead of 5 different times with a single wire puller. The construction of the devices are of 10/20 steel and supported with same 10/20 steel allows for more wire to be strung in a single days time. With the wire spacing which is customary of current spacing of barbwire & barb-less wire Fences today. It will allow for much better an faster stringing of wire fencing. An add a more uniform eye appeal to all fencing done in the future.

Abstract: A method and system are described for tensioning structural strands 1 of a tendon in a duct. Each strand 1 is fitted with its own load cell 22, so that the individual tension values in each individual strand 1 can be measured during the tensioning of the strands 1. The load cells 22 may be removed after tensioning, or left in situ to enable ongoing monitoring of the tension in the strands 1. The load cells 22 may be calibrated simultaneously by tensioning the strands 1 to an equal tension using individual jacks 10, then normalizing the signals from each load cell 22 to the known equal tension value. A further calibration to a global strand load measurement may also be performed.

Abstract: Extracting apparatuses of the present disclosure include post extracting apparatus comprising a housing having a bore therethrough, wherein the bore includes a shoulder. A lift member is adapted to receive an attachment member at a first end of the lift member. The lift member is disposed in the bore and is operatively associated with an actuator. The actuator engages with at least a portion of the shoulder. Actuation of the actuator causes the lift member and the attachment member to move in a first direction.

Abstract: A strainer for straining a length of material, the strainer including a tensioning device configured to tension a length of material between the strainer and an object, characterised in that the strainer includes a conductive component configured to contact the length of the material when held by the tensioning device, and wherein the conductive component includes an attachment portion for an external conductive link to the strainer. This invention also relates to a security system and its method of preparation using the strainer as described herein.

Abstract: Solutions for reducing key bar rattle in dynamoelectric machines are disclosed. In one embodiment an apparatus includes: a plurality of key bars operably coupling a stator core to a stator wrapper in which the stator core is at least partially contained; a cable surrounding the plurality of key bars; and at least one anchor device connecting a portion of the cable to the stator wrapper to produce a compressive load on at least one of the plurality of key bars by tightening the cable around the plurality of key bars.

Abstract: A device for pre-tensioning a machine frame has a tie rod including a first and a further rod head for placement on the machine frame and a tension element for absorbing tensile forces between the rod heads. The tension element extends along a tension distance of the tie rod. At least one of the two rod heads includes a device for reversing the direction for the tension element. In further aspects, a machine frame and a pressing or drawing device are provided.

Abstract: An insulator member includes a set of passages (2) (4) which, without intercrossing, extend through the main body (1a) of the insulator member. The set of passages (2) (4) includes an insulating passage (2) structurally arranged to be engaged by filiform elements (10) and an elongated anchor passage (4) structurally arranged to be engaged by the hook portion (21) of the stretcher device (20). Since the passages (2) (4) do not intercross, the separating portion (1d) prevents the stretched filiform elements from being subject to compression upon stretching of the stretching device.

Abstract: A force distribution arrangement is configured as an array of compliant building blocks, each having a plurality of leg elements having respective leg thickness distribution and leg lengths. The plurality of leg elements are, in some embodiments, of uniform thickness and uniform leg length. The legs are joined to one another at corresponding compliant nodes, and are integrally formed. The array is constrained at a first end thereof, and optionally at a second end thereof. A membrane is arranged to overlie the array, and a control point is affixed to the array and optionally to the membrane that overlies the array. The membrane is formed of a compliant material or fabric. A further array is arranged in some applications at a predetermined orientation with respect to the first array. The arrays have respective actuation force response characteristics to achieve contour upon the application of actuation forces.

Abstract: A mechanical fence post driver for attachment to a lift arm of a standard front-loader which includes a mounting plate, guide tube, and roller latch assembly. The guide tube receives a tee or other fence post inserted therein such that it contacts the mounting plate. The fence post is held in place by a roller latch assembly which compresses the post against the rearward side of the guide tube. Insertion of the fence post into the ground is accomplished by lowering the lift arm while the post is held within the guide cylinder. A rotation plate assembly may be positioned between the mounting plate and guide cylinder to provide a convenient mechanism to rotate the guide cylinder in relation to the mounting plate.

Abstract: A stake removal device is provided. The device includes a proximal end for engaging a stake and distal end for engaging the user's hand. The device further includes an elongated intermediate portion in connection with the proximal and distal ends.

Abstract: A fence stretcher system and method are shown and described. In one embodiment, the fence stretcher system comprises a body. A rod having a diameter configured to allow the rod to be woven into a fence's links may be attached to the body. A rod-holder having a diameter sized to receive the rod may also be attached to the body. A plurality of hooks configured to engage the rod when the rod is woven into the fence may also be attached to the body. An interface may also be attached to the body. Using this system, fence may be quickly and easily stretched with minimal link displacement.

Abstract: An apparatus for retensioning tendons in a concrete slab which has a stressing frame with a first leg having a top part and a bottom part, and a second leg having a top part and a bottom part, so that the top part of the first leg and the top part of the second leg, are pivotally connected; and so that the first leg further comprises a shaft and wherein the bottom part of the second leg further comprises a shaft; and second leg further comprises a contact point proximate to the bottom part of the second leg; so that the bar engagedly connects the first leg so that when the retractor is engaged, the bar is pulled and the contact point on the first leg and the contact point on the second leg are pulled inwards allowing the two pieces of rebar tendons to be connected.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying tension to flexible items, including wire, barbed wire, cable, or rope, are described herein. A stationary clamping member is fixedly attached to a first end of a guide bar, extending outwardly therefrom, while a non-stationary clamping member is movably mounted to and extending outward from the guide bar substantially parallel to the stationary clamping member. The free end of a first flexible item is secured in the stationary clamping member, while the free end of a second flexible item is secured in the non-stationary clamping member. A tensioning assembly, such as a ratchet-like assembly engaging notches in the guide bar, is used to move the non-stationary clamping member away from the stationary clamping member, thereby tensioning one or both flexible items. Once the flexible items have been tensioned, they can be twisted together to form a connection without losing tension.

Abstract: A thoracic closure device. The device has a handle member, a base member, and a feed path, and is designed to accept and, with a ratcheting mechanism, tension a toothed closure tie. A guide member is also provided, and assists in the placement of a closure tie prior to tensioning. Methods of closing a median sternotomy using toothed closure ties are also disclosed.

Abstract: An anchor stretcher device includes a wind up reel (7) having a false retention wall (9) which is mounted in a wall mount opening (9a) on one end of the device. The wind up reel includes a command head (11) on a rotary body (6) which is engageable with a cramp (10a)(9c) able to prevent its rotation and that possesses, at least, an anchor opening (9b) for a filiform element (30) to be stretched. Winding for stretching is performed by turning the command head (11). Since the anchor opening (9b) is situated laterally on the false retention wall (9), the filiform element (30) winds up in a very even manner on the wind up reel (7). A production method is describe which includes a series of steps through which component parts of the anchor stretcher device are produced.

Abstract: This invention discloses an easy binding machine. It mainly comprises: a main body, a scroll, a handle, a main lacing and an auxiliary lacing. The auxiliary lacing is in the rear side of the main body, and its tail is flexibly connected with the main body. There is an auxiliary hook fixed in the front end. There is an active buckle, which goes with the auxiliary lacing, in the rear of said main body. The said active buckle comprises a bottom board, left and right side walls and pin rolls. The pin roll is fixed between left and right side walls. There is a groove where corresponds to the pin roll in the bottom board. The tail of auxiliary reaches inside the active buckle from downward in the rear of active buckle's bottom board, and then circles the pin roll downward and reaches outside the active buckle through the groove on the bottom board.

Abstract: Embodiments include but are not limited to apparatuses and systems for post-tension strand repair. A post-tension strand repair apparatus may include two or more guiding legs, each guiding leg including a strand guide configured to engage a strand end, wherein the two or more guiding legs are coupled to allow the strand guides to be drawn toward each other and thus urge the strand ends toward each other. Other embodiments may be described.

Abstract: Applicant provides an offset safety winch bar to remove the handle portion of a winch bar from a hazard zone created by the offset angle of the winch bar for safety in winching strap spools attached to flatbed trailers. An offset safety winch bar includes a spool insert insertable into a flatbed trailer winch spool hole; a body connected to said spool insert; and a handle connected to said body, wherein said spool insert is at an offset angle from said body, and said body has one or more compensating angles to intersect a portion of said handle with the longitudinal axis of said spool insert. The compensating angles can place the longitudinal axis of said handle aligned upon the longitudinal axis of the spool insert.

Abstract: A cable tensioning system for mounting a vinyl sheet to a billboard frame, comprising a cable secured on a frame at one end and secured to a spring-loaded cable tensioning device at the other end. A plurality of cable guides are mounted at intervals around the frame, each of the cable guides having a channel adapted to receive the cable. Portions of the edges of a sheet are secured within a plurality of locking clips around the perimeter, each clip also having a channel to receive the cable. The sheet with the clips affixed is secured to the frame whereby cable travels through the channels in the locking clips and is guided around the perimeter of the frame by the channel guides and secured to the spring-loaded cable tensioning device. The spring-loaded cable tensioning device is deployed to tighten the cable around the frame and secure the sheet to the frame.

Abstract: A fence pulling system for pulling a fence includes a male member, a female member to connect to the male member, a pivot member to allow the male member to pivot with respect to the female member, and a clamp member to allow the fence to clamped. The pivot member may include an aperture member, and the pivot member may include a L-shaped member. The male member may include the aperture member, and the female member may include the L-shaped member. The clamping member may include a male clamping member, and the clamping member may include a first female clamping member and a second female clamping member. The frame member may include a longitudinal frame member, and the frame member may include a traverse frame member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved design of wire tensioner for use in electric wire fences. As well as attaching a wire to a fence post, and tensioning the wire, the device also insulates the wire from the metal post. The device comprises an insulating means or body which has an engagement face for engaging with internal surface of a fence post and a spring for applying a tensioning force to the wire. Any changes in the length of the wire due to ambient temperature variation can be absorbed by the spring, thus minimising maintenance adjustments of the wire tension. The spring may also be used to press the engagement face against the surface of the fence post, and therefore hold the device in position. The present invention also provides for installing the (wire tensioner) devices inside a fence post (which is fitted with a cover) and which contains the high voltage (HV) and earth wire connections.

Abstract: A clamping device or anchor, at least two of which are used to clamp onto separated sections of a conveyor belt, which sections lie to each side of a repair site in the belt, whereby the belt sections can be pulled together by a power mechanism affixed between the clamping devices, whereby belt tension is relieved at the repair site to allow a repair to be made more easily, wherein each clamping device is provided with a stop shoulder which is adapted to engage an outer edge of the belt as the belt is positioned edgewise between a pair of upper and lower jaws of the device, and wherein the belt contacting portions or surfaces of the jaws are spaced inboard of the stop shoulder from about ¼ inch to about 1.0 inch such that the belt outer edges are not clamped and are not subject to tearing forces.

Abstract: A composite tension member. The composite tension member is assembled from a number of composite rods, each having two ends. A wedge plug is formed around the ends of the composite rods. The wedge plugs are inserted into termination fitting having a termination fitting body with an aperture at a proximal end for receipt of the bundle of composite rods and having an internal cavity that flares outwardly from a proximal end to a distal end to closely receive the wedge plug with the composite rods imbedded therein. A closeout nut is used to retain the wedge plug in the termination fitting body. The invention further provides method of manufacturing composite tension members.

Abstract: A device for carrying out a two-stage, linear movement as well as an associated method for displacing a displaceable structural unit relative to a stationary structural unit. A first drive unit drives a shaft, which is in operative connection with a tube, which is connected to the displaceable structural unit. If a predeterminable condition is substantially achieved, a switch is made from the first drive unit to a second drive unit.

Abstract: Devices and methods of stressing anisotropic conductive elastomer (ACE) sheet material that defines a plurality of electrical pathways through its thickness. The perimeter of the sheet is mechanically gripped, while leaving an interior portion of the sheet free. A surface over which the interior portion of the sheet is to be stretched is provided, and the sheet and the surface are contacted. The sheet and the surface are then relatively moved, to stretch the sheet over the surface, and thereby stress the interior portion of the sheet.

Abstract: An improved strap tensioner that allows a user to manually shorten the strap by applying greater tension on the strap and easily lengthening the strap after being tightened. The tensioner includes a tension lever, an intermediate member, and a brake lever all pivotally mounted on a rigid base. The tension lever and brake member are longitudinally aligned on opposite sides of the rigid base. Formed on the tension lever is a transversely aligned clamping flange that extends under the strap when longitudinally extended through the rigid base. Formed on the intermediate member and disposed above the clamping flange is a first cam surface that forms a slot for the strap to extend through. The brake lever includes a second cam surface that is space above the front flange member to form a second slot. During operation, the brake lever is rotated to press the second cam surface against front flange member to temporarily hold the strap inside the rigid base.

Abstract: A frame for holding sheet material taut comprises a support as well as two legs which extend essentially parallel to one another transversely from the support, on which legs fixing elements are provided for fixing, in each case, one of the opposing edges of a piece of sheet material thereto. At least one of the legs can be moved along the support towards and away from the other leg. Furthermore compensation elements are provided for compensating for stretch and/or shrinkage of the piece of sheet material fixed between the legs.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing carpet kicker for positioning and stretching carpet is disclosed. The carpet kicker includes an engaging head with forwardly-inclined pins for engaging carpet materials on a floor, a shaft connected to the engaging head and extending therefrom, a cushioned pad facing away from the engaging head and connected to the shaft a distance away from the engaging head, and a shock-absorbing device connected to the shaft and interposed between the engaging head and the cushioned pad. The shock-absorbing device comprises a resilient member preloaded against a collapsible tension member, whereby kicks to the cushioned pad are transmitted through the shock-absorbing device to the engaging head. The preloaded tension member permits a portion of the energy of each kick to be transmitted directly to the engaging head, while the resilient member absorbs excess energy of the kick.

Abstract: In a vineyard or the like, a system for positioning and tensioning the wires which form the trellis disposed between and among an array of metal posts upon which vines are trained, including retainers for selectively positioning wires relative to the metal posts and each other and further including a subsystem for applying the appropriate tension to the various wires making up the trellis.

Abstract: In a vineyard or the like, a system for positioning and tensioning the wires which form the trellis disposed between and among an array of metal posts upon which vines are trained, including retainers for selectively positioning wires relative to the metal posts and each other and further including a subsystem for applying the appropriate tension to the various wires making up the trellis.

Abstract: In a vineyard or the like, a system for positioning and tensioning the wires which form the trellis disposed between and among an array of metal posts upon which vines are trained, including retainers for selectively positioning wires relative to the metal posts and each other and further including a subsystem for applying the appropriate tension to the various wires making up the trellis.

Abstract: There is a clamp for a conveyor belt. The clamp comprises a yoke having a shoulder member, two laterally extending arms defining a recess therebetween and a channel which extends through the yoke at a right angle to the width of the recess. In use of the clamp an edge portion of the belt is located in the recess and a pair of beams are inserted through the channel to pass respectively over and under the belt and rotation of a turn-screw extending through a threaded seat in one of the arms exerts a clamping force through the beams directly onto the edge portion of the belt.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transferring a weight of chain link mesh fence and holding the fence in position while a single installer secures the fence. The apparatus includes a lever arm, at least one tip for engaging an intersection of chain link mesh, a pivot point between the lever arm and tip, a hook attached to the lever arm by a flexible tether or connector which allows the chain link mesh to remain in place once engaged. The installer first places the pivot point on the fence post and pivots the chain link mesh upward to the desired height. Then the installer attaches the hook to an intersection of fence so that the flexible tether is taut. Once done, the forces are balanced on each side of the pivot point of the apparatus and the installer can release the tool and work with both hands to install the fence.

Abstract: In order to provide a simple and inexpensive laying aid for floor covering elements, in particular ready-made parquet flooring, laminated or floor panels, it is suggested that the laying aid be designed in the form of a belt tensioning device with a belt and have a shaped part on both sides, that each shaped part have a receiving means for the belt, that each shaped part have an arm with a projection which can be fixed at a groove or a tongue of the floor covering elements by engaging in it and around it, respectively, and that when the arm is fixed in such a manner the receiving means be positioned such that the belt is guided by this close to the floor covering elements.

Abstract: A manual hoist for use by auto mechanics to remove and install a wheel on a vehicle, comprising a vertical frame, a cantilever arm pivotally secured to the frame, a strap having a first end and a second end, the first end operatively arranged to slidingly engage the cantilever arm, and, a fastener secured to the second end of the strap and operatively arranged to fasten to the wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus for tensioning a subsurface float line and the like during doyment of the line and thereafter includes a capstan rotatably mounted and located in a liquid medium, the capstan having a bore extending from one end of the capstan to the other end, the bore including a plurality of pump blades for moving the liquid through the bore when the capstan is rotated, the capstan also including turbine blades located around the circumference of the capstan and adjacent both ends of the capstan, the capstan also including a circular surface interposed between the turbine blades for communicating with the line to be tensioned. The pump and turbine blades do work when the capstan is rotated thereby creating a counter rotational (drag) force that tensions the line during and after deployment.

Abstract: A cable tensioning device comprises tubular shaft having an outer threaded portion, and a handle member surrounding a portion of the shaft, with the shaft and handle member being connected in screw-threaded relation. The shaft moves longitudinally relative to the handle as the handle rotates, driven by the screw threaded connection. A gripping member is carried on the shaft distal to the handle member for holding a replaceable bit, which, in turn, may carry a cable crimp. A cable lock is positioned typically proximal of the handle member to hold the ends of cables extending through the tubular shaft. Rotation of the handle member can cause the shaft to move longitudinally to lengthen the distance between the cable lock and a crimp held by a bit which, in turn, is held by the gripping member, to impose a tension on the cable. A meter is present for measuring the amount of tension applied to the cable.

Abstract: In order to provide a simple and inexpensive laying aid for floor covering elements, in particular ready-made parquet flooring, laminated or floor panels, the laying aid is in the form of a belt tensioning device with a belt and have a shaped part on both sides, each shaped part having a receiving means for the belt, and each shaped part having an arm with a projection which can be fixed at a groove or a tongue of the floor covering elements by engaging in it and around it, respectively. When the arm is fixed in such a manner the receiving means is positioned such that the belt is guided close to the floor covering elements.

Abstract: A portable belt clamping and pulling apparatus is provided to grip and pull belt ends together for splicing belt ends of a conveyor belt. A pair of belt ends are clamped between respective pairs of I-beams, the clamped belt ends are pulled together by a come-along mechanism, and the free ends of belt between the I-beams are maintained held together in a tension-free environment to allow fastening together of the belt ends. The preferred clamping jaws are in the form of at least one clamping lever pivotally mounted on a central frame having a central opening through which the I-beams are inserted. The clamping lever is connected to a pulling device that pivots the clamping lever to cause the clamping members to tightly grip a belt end between the I-beams. The clamping jaws include respective pre-tightening screws for clamping the I-beams to the belt prior to the initiation of pulling by the chains so as to eliminate slippage of the belt from between the I-beams during the initial pulling.

Abstract: A stake puller (10) for use in removing a stake (4) lodged in the ground (2) utilizes a lever (12) and fulcrum (20) for mechanical advantage. The stake (4) is positioned between a blade means (30) fixed to the end of the lever and a back plate (40) pivotally attached to the blade means. When the user pivots the lever down, the stake is pinched between the forward edge (34) of the blade means (30) and the primary surface (42) of the back plate (40). The primary surface (42) is curved and diverges from the stake. This minimizes any bending or friction forces applied to the stake.

Abstract: A tensioning mechanism for a vehicle auxiliary seat which spans a space between first and second adjacent structures. In a preferred embodiment, the tensioning mechanism includes a; ratchet having a telescopically extended ratchet arm and wherein the ratchet can only be adjusted to a position tensioning the seat or adjusted to release the seat when the ratchet arm is extended.