Fastener Deformed After Application Patents (Class 29/525.05)
  • Publication number: 20130104732
    Abstract: A fastening method for fastening a nut to a bolt by screwing includes preparing a nut including a tool mounting portion formed on a seat surface, and an annular thin portion formed on the tool mounting portion opposite to the seat surface, swaging a plurality of places of the thin portion with punches from an outer circumferential direction, and flowing a thickness of the thin portion so as to extend to a front end of the bolt partially in a circumferential direction to be closely adhered to a screw portion of the bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130097847
    Abstract: A method to join a first structure to a second structure comprises aligning a first hole in the first structure with a second hole in the second structure and inserting a fastener into the first hole and the second hole. The fastener comprises a shape memory alloy which was formed into a first shape having a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in an austenite state and reduced to a second shape having a diameter less than the diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in a martensite state. The method further comprises heating the fastener above an austenite start transition temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: The Boeing Company
  • Patent number: 8402632
    Abstract: A method for crimping an insert to be clinched in a support by means of a placing apparatus having an anvil, in an area where the support comprises superposed first and second panels at a distance from one another, wherein the shank is inserted axially in the support and the anvil is brought up against the distal end of the shank, and the second section is then axially compressed against the anvil to create a securing edge, axial compression of the second section then being continued to create a crimping rim delineating an anchoring groove, in combination with the securing edge, surrounding the second panel, axial compression of the second section then being continued to bring about clamping of the support between the securing head and the securing edge in conjunction with clamping of the second panel between the securing edge and the crimping rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Bollhoff Otalu S.A.
    Inventor: Philippe Gory
  • Patent number: 8393068
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for mechanically-joining components to assemble a composite structure. A first component and a second component may be provided. At least one of the first and second components may comprise a composite component. A hole may be formed in each of the first and second components. A metallic sleeve may be placed in the holes in the first and second components such that the metallic sleeve is in contact with the first and second components, and a composite rivet may be placed in the metallic sleeve. Heat and a deforming force may be applied to the composite rivet to join the first and second components to form an assembled composite structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Steven G. Keener
  • Publication number: 20130048654
    Abstract: A waste cart includes a container having first and second wall portions, and first and second openings defined by the wall portions to receive and support a grab bar. The container includes at least one positioning element to constrain the lateral movement of the grab bar. During assembly, the first end of the grab bar is inserted through the opening in the first sidewall, and the grab bar is pivoted to align the grab bar with the opening in the second sidewall. During the pivoting of the grab bar, the first positioning element is deformed. The second end of the grab bar is inserted into the opening in the second sidewall, allowing the first positioning element to snap back to its original, non-deformed orientation. When the grab bar is installed, the positioning elements are positioned at the outer ends of the grab bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: CASCADE ENGINEERING, INC.
    Inventors: James R. Kilduff, Linda R. Umlor, Brian G. Parker, Jeffrey W. Miles, Joseph A. Bollo, JR., Dean T. Miller, Michael A. Barrett
  • Publication number: 20130042463
    Abstract: A clamp tool that has stop edges and ear edges is disclosed. In one embodiment, stop edges close against each other while the ear edges, being cut deeper than the stop edges, do not touch each other and provide a space between which an ear of a clamp is position and closed by the clamp tool without cutting or nicking unnecessarily into the ear of the clamp. The width of the stop edges is predetermined to provide an alignment for proper alignment of the clamp on a hose that obscures features of a fitting that is positioned beneath the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Larry F. Bobenhausen
  • Patent number: 8365387
    Abstract: A rivet, including: at least one side wall extending from a first side of a sheet of material, formed from the same material as the sheet of material, and including respective inside surfaces; and a space at least partly enclosed by the respective inside surfaces. The space is open at a second side of the sheet of material. In one embodiment, the at least one side wall is cylindrical in shape. In another embodiment, the rivet includes an end wall formed of the same piece of material as the at least one side wall and defining one end of the space, the space is cylindrical in shape, the space has a first portion aligned with the sheet of material and a second portion partially defined by the end wall, and a diameter for the first portion is less than the diameter for the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventor: Jonathan Jameson
  • Publication number: 20120297719
    Abstract: A stiffener ring, and associated method and program product. A stiffener ring is provided having a generally annular shape for supporting a rebar cage, including: a plurality of primary cutouts spaced about an exterior edge of the stiffener ring, wherein each primary cutout is configured to receive a transversely mounted steel bar; a plurality of secondary cutouts spaced about an edge of the stiffener ring, wherein each of the secondary cutouts is configured to received an instrumentation pipe; and a set of flow holes cut into the stiffener ring to facilitate a flow of concrete through the stiffener ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: DIMENSION FABRICATORS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott D. Stevens, Greg B. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20120293777
    Abstract: A light source device which can prevent the removal of light source elements of a light source device within a projector casing, a projector and a light source fabrication method are provided. An excitation light shining device 70 has a lens holding structure 79 and a light source holding structure 80 which are integrated together with excitation light sources held therebetween. The lens holding structure 79 has through holes 79f which first screw members 84 penetrate, and the light source holding structure 80 has screw holes 80h and screw holes 80k communicating with the screw holes 80h substantially at right angles. With the first screw members 84 penetrating the through holes 79f to be screwed into the screw holes 80h, screw thread portions of the first screw members 84 are pressed to be deformed plastically by distal end portions of the second screw members 85.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Toshifumi KASE
  • Publication number: 20120291262
    Abstract: A first and a second object are joined with the aid of a joining element including at least in the region of its distal and proximal ends a thermoplastic material. Two blind holes facing each other are provided in the two objects and the joining element is positioned in the blind holes such that its distal and proximal ends are in contact with the bottom faces of the blind holes and such that there is a gap between the two objects. This assembly is then positioned between a support and a sonotrode. The sonotrode and the support are forced towards each other, while the sonotrode is vibrated, thereby liquefying at least part of the material having thermoplastic properties, there, where the joining element ends are pressed against the bottom faces of the holes and allowing the liquefied material to infiltrate into pores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: WOODWELDING AG
    Inventors: Colin Clinch, Marcel Aeschlimann, Laurent Torriani, Elmar Mock
  • Publication number: 20120279043
    Abstract: A replaceable deformable insert is disposed in a clinching die cavity having an annular recess adjacent the insert. A first layer is established on a second layer and secured between a retractable punch and the clinching die. The punch is pressed into the first layer to form a depression in the first and second layers. The first and second layers are compressed together between the punch and the clinching die, creating hydrostatic pressure in the first and second layers and the insert. A portion of the insert is extruded to fill the annular recess with insert extrudate, while a portion of the second layer is simultaneously radially extruded into an annular space previously occupied by the insert. A portion of the first layer is simultaneously radially extruded into an annular volume previously occupied by the second layer, thereby forming an interlocking assembly of the first and second layers and insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Jon T. Carter
  • Patent number: 8261422
    Abstract: A functional element (10), for fixing to a piece of sheet metal (40), such as for example, a nut element or a bolt element with a body section or head section, comprising an annular flange (14) which transforms into a cylindrical rivet section, is characterized in that the transformation from annular flange into the rivet section is formed by an at least essentially conical surface, forming a contact surface for a corresponding conical region of a piece of sheet metal, which, on fixing the functional element to a piece of sheet metal, is clamped between the side of the annular flange facing the rivet section and an annular bead (50) formed from the rivet section. An assembled component and a method for the fixing of a functional element are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: PROFIL Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Jiri Babej, Wolfgang Hoessrich
  • Patent number: 8256104
    Abstract: A blind fastener installation tool comprises a structural housing which features a mechanism for securing a fastener installation assembly in position relative to the structural housing during the blind installation of a fastener; and a mechanism for reciprocating the fastener installation assembly relative to the structural housing at the conclusion of blind installation. The blind fastener installation tool also comprises a fastener installation assembly. This assembly comprises (1) a pull rod assembly comprising a mechanism for pulling a first portion of a fastener; (2) an annular, piston-actuated, piston-decoupled pull rod actuation assembly to translate the pull rod assembly; and (3) a nose assembly comprising a fastener receptacle for securing the position of a fastener; and one or more optional pull rod translation dampening assemblies to smoothly and effectually dampen the sudden translation of said pull rod assembly after pintail break.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: David J. Fulbright
  • Publication number: 20120207415
    Abstract: Reciprocating motion can be converted to rotary motion through a crankshaft and a connecting rod. In a connecting rod that is primarily in tension, two opposing connecting rods can be coupled to a single journal. Two bearing caps are placed over the journal, the bearing caps having fingers that extend away from the bearing cap with the fingers of the two bearing caps being enmeshed. Fingers of each bearing cap are coupled to the connecting rods. The resulting joint is compact and lighter weight with a shorter journal than prior joints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: EcoMotors International, Inc.
    Inventors: Adrian Tusinean, Peter Hofbauer
  • Patent number: 8230574
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for emplacing connecting elements in metal sheets or sheet components made of metal by inserting a bolt-like or sleeve-like joining section of the connecting element into a joining opening provided in a metal sheet, so that the connecting element bears with an extended head section against one surface side of the metal sheet and projects with a partial length of the joining section over the other surface side of the metal sheet, and by subsequent pressing of the connecting element in the metal sheet through plastic material deformation by applying a pressing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Heiko Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8230571
    Abstract: A self-attaching fastener and panel assembly wherein the free open end of the tubular barrel portion is coined, collapsed axially, flattened and deformed radially inwardly and outwardly and axially against a panel surrounding the panel opening. The method of installation includes driving the free end of the tubular barrel portion against a substantially planar die surface, deforming an end portion radially, then collapsing an intermediate portion over the radially deformed end portion, flattening the end portion, substantially thickening the tubular barrel portion and forming an annular surface engaging and supporting the panel surrounding the opening. The die member includes an annular moat surrounding a central die post and a planar die surface extending generally perpendicular to the axis of the die button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Whitesell International Corporation
    Inventor: Zdravko Kovac
  • Patent number: 8225479
    Abstract: A first and a second object (1 and 2) are joined with the aid of a joining element (8) including at least in the region of its distal and proximal ends (8.1 and 8.2) a thermoplastic material. Two blind holes (5 and 6) facing each other are provided in the two objects (1 and 2) and the joining element (8) is positioned in the blind holes such that its distal and proximal ends (8.1) are in contact with the bottom faces of the blind holes and such that there is a gap (9) between the two objects (1 and 2). This assembly is then positioned between a support (3) and a sonotrode (4). The sonotrode (4) and the support (3) are forced towards each other, while the sonotrode (4) is vibrated, thereby liquefying at least part of the material having thermoplastic properties, there, where the joining element ends (8.1 and 8.2) are pressed against the bottom faces of the holes (5 and 6) and allowing the liquefied material to infiltrate into pores of the hole surfaces or unevennesses or openings provided in the hole surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Woodwelding AG
    Inventors: Colin Clinch, Marcel Aeschlimann, Laurent Torriani, Elmar Mock
  • Publication number: 20120174383
    Abstract: This invention concerns a process for joining at least a first and a second conduit so as to control the electrical resistance of a circuit of conduits characterized in that it comprises of the following steps placing a cylindrical section of an adapter (220) onto an end of the first conduit (500). crimping at least one part of the cylindrical section onto the first conduit, with a spacing block (100) of a polymeric material having a preselected conductivity being positioned on the extension of the end of the first conduit and clipped to the cylindrical section, with the crimping serving to lock the spacing block with respect to the adapter. joining the spacing block to the end of the second conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: DESIGNED METAL CONNECTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Benoit Artaud, Stephane Heraud, Daniel Lecroc
  • Publication number: 20120124816
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for forming corrosion-resistant joints in a plurality of overlapping thin metal sheet workpieces, at least one of which comprises at least 85% by weight of magnesium sheets. The fastener is a fiber-reinforced polymer rod shaped and sized for insertion into a coaxial opening formed in each sheet and subsequently upset on each end to form a head. The workpiece sheets are deformed to form mechanically-interfering features which cooperatively complement the strength of the fastener, under at least some joint loading patterns. The method may be used for other workpiece and fastener compositions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Elisabeth J. Berger, Peter H. Foss, Leonid C. Lev, Jon T. Carter
  • Publication number: 20120044623
    Abstract: A housing of an electronic device encloses and supports at least one operational component and includes at least one opening sized to accommodate a mechanical input assembly. The mechanical input assembly includes a feature arranged to receive an input event, at least a portion of the feature exposed at an outside surface of the housing, an operational indicia visible on the exposed portion and having a preferred orientation with respect to the housing, the operational indicial providing an indication of how an operation of the operational component is influenced, and a shaft having a size and shape in accordance with the opening, the shaft attached to the external feature at a first end and an integrally formed self-capturing feature at the second end. The self-capturing feature is inserted into the opening until activated. The indicia is then properly aligned and the mechanical input assembly is locked to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: APPLE INC.
    Inventors: Felix Jose Alvarez Rivera, Wey-Jiun Lin, Emery Sanford
  • Publication number: 20120024930
    Abstract: A powered stapler (10) and method of operating same for stapling together two or more metal workpieces. The powered stapler (10) includes a main frame member (20) adapted to carry a strip of staples. The frame member has an anvil (20e) covered by a front nosepiece (48) at one end. A lower jaw member (22), having a lower cam slot (34), is pivotally attached to the main frame member. The lower jaw member (22) has a forming die (56). An upper ram member (24) has an upper cam slot (32) and a staple-driving hammer (52). The upper ram member (24) is pivotally attached to the lower jaw member (22). A drive rod (28) extends from a power unit (12) and has a cam bar (30) at one end protruding through the upper cam slot (32) in the upper ram member (24) and through the lower cam slot (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Herman Myburgh, Sonette Myburgh
  • Publication number: 20120023708
    Abstract: A fastener device facilitating the secured attachment of a boutonniere or corsage to an article of clothing is described. The fastener device includes a heat shrinkable tube and at least one fastener assembly. The heat shrinkable tube is sliable along a stem extending from a flower arrangement prior to the application of heat and fixable to the stem after heat has been applied. Each fastener assembly is disposed along and extends from the heat shrinkable tube. One or more such fasteners secure the fastener device to an article of clothing, thus securing a flower arrangement to an article of clothing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Stephanie E. Crilly
  • Publication number: 20120017422
    Abstract: Fasteners for producing double blind joints where the fastener is not visible or accessible are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph D. Rule, Kevin M. Lewandowski, Jason D. Clapper
  • Publication number: 20120017421
    Abstract: A drop-in anchor includes a tubular sleeve having a first end and an expandable second end, the sleeve including one or more indicator surfaces offset from the first end along a sleeve axis of the sleeve. A plug is insertable in the sleeve such that when the plug is driven into an installed position in the sleeve, the second end expands and an installation tool interacts with the first end to provide a visual indication, due to contrast in appearance with the one or more indicator surfaces, of engagement of the drop-in anchor to a workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: POWERS PRODUCTS III, LLC
    Inventors: T.J. Bland, Robert La Barbera
  • Patent number: 8096034
    Abstract: Mechanically interlocking releasable fastener systems include a reinforced shape memory polymer for forming one of the interlocking components. The reinforced shape memory polymer includes a filler material in the form of a fiber and/or platelet. The filler can include an electrically conductive filler, a thermally conductive filler, a dielectric fillers, and mixtures thereof. Also disclosed herein are processes for using the releasable fastener systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: William Barvosa-Carter, Andrew C. Keefe, Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8087149
    Abstract: A rivet configured to provide a strengthened rivet joint capable of acting as a load-bearing joint, such as in a vehicle, is provided. A method of joining a multiple member work-piece utilizing the rivet is also provided. The rivet includes a head portion and an annular body portion extending from the head portion. The body portion has an open end opposite the head portion. The head portion and the annular body portion define an interior cavity that opens at the open end. The annular body portion has an inner surface at the interior cavity and an outer surface opposite the interior cavity. The body portion has passages extending through the body portion from the inner surface to the outer surface, and grooves running along the outer surface intersecting with the passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Pei-Chung Wang, Robin Stevenson
  • Publication number: 20110266785
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to a chassis module, a front module, and a body, front module, body, and chassis module, At least one first and one second set of cooperating fastenings are provided for fastening the front module on the chassis module and/or the body. The cooperating fastenings of the first set define an axis about which the front module can be pivoted relative to the chassis module into a stop position in which it is held by the fastening means of the second set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Udo MILDNER
  • Publication number: 20110267243
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of apparatus, systems, and methods relating to mounting antenna components, modules, assemblies, etc. to mounting surfaces, such as vehicle roofs, hoods, trunk lids, etc. Other aspects relate to antenna assemblies including the mounting apparatus. An exemplary embodiment generally includes one or more contact parts, a clamping piece, and a fastener. The one or more contact parts, clamping piece, and fastener may be used for mounting an antenna assembly to a mounting surface, such as a vehicle body wall (e.g., a vehicle's roof, hood, trunk lid, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: LAIRD TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventors: Ulrich Steinkamp, Jens Simon, Rainer Ecker, Otto Heinemeyer
  • Publication number: 20110258836
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a percussion drilling assembly, the method including providing a tubular case having a central axis and a lower end with an inner surface and an outer surface, providing a driver sub having a central axis, an outer surface, and an upper end, providing a annular locking member including an annular body, an inner finger extending radially inward from the body, and a first outer finger extending radially outward from the body, positioning the annular locking member about the driver sub, and threading the upper end of the driver sub to the lower end of the case. The inner surface of the lower end includes internal threads and the outer surface of the lower end includes a groove. The outer surface of the upper end includes external threads and the outer surface axially below the outer includes a groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: ALAN J. MARSHALL
  • Publication number: 20110241405
    Abstract: A connector includes a first component having a socket and a first catch portion and a second component having a post and a resilient arm having a second catch portion. The post is shaped to be received in the socket. The second component is moveable along an axis relative to the first component from a first position wherein the resilient arm is biased such that the second catch portion is in a non-engaged position to a second position wherein the second catch portion is in an engaged position relative to the first catch portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: James D. Slagh
  • Patent number: 8015699
    Abstract: The blind fastener installation tool also comprises an optional fastener delivery assembly, said optional fastener delivery assembly constituting: (1) a clip-fed fastener delivery system; or (2) a blowline-fed fastener delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Fulbright
  • Publication number: 20110206448
    Abstract: A first and a second object (1 and 2) are joined with the aid of a joining element (8) including at least in the region of its distal and proximal ends (8.1 and 8.2) a thermoplastic material. Two blind holes (5 and 6) facing each other are provided in the two objects (1 and 2) and the joining element (8) is positioned in the blind holes such that its distal and proximal ends (8.1) are in contact with the bottom faces of the blind holes and such that there is a gap (9) between the two objects (1 and 2). This assembly is then positioned between a support (3) and a sonotrode (4). The sonotrode (4) and the support (3) are forced towards each other, while the sonotrode (4) is vibrated, thereby liquefying at least part of the material having thermoplastic properties, there, where the joining element ends (8.1 and 8.2) are pressed against the bottom faces of the holes (5 and 6) and allowing the liquefied material to infiltrate into pores of the hole surfaces or unevennesses or openings provided in the hole surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: WOODWELDING AG
    Inventors: Colin Clinch, Marcel Aeschlimann, Laurent Torriani, Elmar Mock
  • Patent number: 8002506
    Abstract: A self-expanding and self-undercutting guard rail bolt includes a dowel having a guard rail fastening end and a ring. The fastening end is configured to be driven in rotation, and the ring is configured to rigidly connect to a first screwing end of the dowel by an incipient fracture portion. The self-expanding and self-undercutting guard rail bolt further includes a counter-dowel screwed to the dowel by a second screwing end. The counter-dowel includes an expansion cone, and an anti-rotation head having at least one edge which projects beyond a periphery of the dowel to prevent rotation of the counter-dowel about an axis of the guard rail bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Societe de Prospection et d'Inventions Techniques SPIT
    Inventors: Fabrice Pourtier, Christian Ricordi
  • Patent number: 8001670
    Abstract: A method for assembling at least two elements by a crimping rivet including a head and a stem, and an associated fitting tool including a traction rod. The method includes the following successive steps. A securing step that secures a part of the stem of the rivet by die-stamping on a corresponding part of the traction rod of the fitting tool inserted inside the stem of the rivet. An inserting step that inserts the rivet in corresponding holes of the elements to be assembled. A crimping step that crimps the rivet by the fitting tool. A separating step that separates the fitting tool by radial deformation of the part of the stem on which die-stamping was applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Bollhoff Otalu S.A.
    Inventor: Philippe Gory
  • Patent number: 7979967
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a hinge between two workpieces or components; first a hinge socket is inserted in an opening of the first component and then a hinge pin is inserted in the hinge socket; the second component can be fastened to the hinge pin end protruding from the hinge socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Heiko Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7966710
    Abstract: An article of cookware is assembled by the rivet attachment of a handle. The rivets are simultaneously attached to both the cookware vessel and the handle. The co-aligned holes for receiving the rivet in the wall of the cooking vessel and the handle flange are bevel such that exterior of the rivet is relatively flush with the interior of the cookware article and the exterior of the handle flange. Deformation of the rivet head also deforms the beveled edges of the through hole in the cookware article, locking it with the corresponding portion of the handle flange through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Meyer Intellectual Properties Limited
    Inventors: Stanley Kin Sui Cheng, Mang Hung Chan, Tanveer Khan
  • Patent number: 7966709
    Abstract: An article of cookware is assembled by the riveted attachment of a handle. Novel rivets are first attached from the interior of the cookware article via a flush hole such that the deformation of the cookware article around the rivet locks the rivet to the cookware article yet leaves the rivet head flush with the interior surface of the cookware article. The handle is subsequently attached by deforming the opposite end of the rivet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Meyer Intellectual Properties Limited
    Inventors: Stanley Kin Sui Cheng, Mang Hung Chan, Tanveer Khan
  • Publication number: 20110139290
    Abstract: A duct system component includes a hollow body, a generally tubular duct connection element that projects from the body and has an outer end. A band of integral continuous or intermittent outstanding formations extend about the tubular duct connection element at a position spaced from the outer end thereof, and from the body. The component further includes a strap apparatus retained or adapted to be retained in a closed transport condition on the connection element between the body and the band so that it cannot slip over the band. The strap apparatus is selectively adjustable from the transport condition to a loose fitting but closed condition for fitment over a duct into which the connection element is receivable, and then to a tight in-use condition in which the strap apparatus clamps the duct behind the band to retain the duct on the component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Graham Norman Duell
  • Publication number: 20110135418
    Abstract: In one embodiment a method to join a first structure to a second structure, comprises aligning a first hole in the first structure with a second hole in the second structure and inserting a fastener into the first hole and the second hole. The fastener comprises a shape memory alloy which was formed into a first shape having a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in an austenite state and reduced to a second shape having a diameter less than the diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in a martensite state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventors: Brad L. Kirkwood, Lee C. Firth, Richard D. Widdle, Wesley B. Crow
  • Patent number: 7950129
    Abstract: A first and a second object (1 and 2) are joined with the aid of a joining element (8) including at least in the region of its distal and proximal ends (8.1 and 8.2) a thermoplastic material. Two blind holes (5 and 6) facing each other are provided in the two objects (1 and 2) and the joining element (8) is positioned in the blind holes such that its distal and proximal ends (8.1) are in contact with the bottom faces of the blind holes and such that there is a gap (9) between the two objects (1 and 2). This assembly is then positioned between a support (3) and a sonotrode (4). The sonotrode (4) and the support (3) are forced towards each other, while the sonotrode (4) is vibrated, thereby liquefying at least part of the material having thermoplastic properties, there, where the joining element ends (8.1 and 8.2) are pressed against the bottom faces of the holes (5 and 6) and allowing the liquefied material to infiltrate into pores of the hole surfaces or unevennesses or openings provided in the hole surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Woodwelding AG
    Inventors: Colin Clinch, Marcel Aeschlimann, Laurent Torriani, Elmar Mock
  • Publication number: 20110123293
    Abstract: A nut and bolt cover apparatus is preferably made from three pieces. A cover piece may be placed over a nut and may have an adapter piece placed over the cover. An exterior cover may be releasably attached to the adapter piece and may squeeze a portion of the adapter piece as the exterior cover is releasably attached to the adapter. Squeezing the adapter piece preferably compresses the cover piece and causes the cover piece to grip the nut of a nut and bolt assembly while the adapter piece grips the cover piece. Removing the exterior cover may relieve the compression forces causing the adapter piece to grip the cover piece and the cover piece to grip a nut, thus permitting the nut and bolt cover apparatus to be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Brian Matlock, Craig Marquardt
  • Publication number: 20110101764
    Abstract: A method of making a chair includes the steps of providing at least one female fastener device. The at least one female fastener device is inserted into a substrate for attaching the at least one female fastener device to the substrate such that at least a portion of that female fastener device's body defining a channel extends into the substrate and the projections extend through the substrate such that the distal ends of the projections extend beyond a second side of the substrate that is opposite a first side of the substrate. The distal ends of the projections are bent into the second side of the substrate. At least one male fastener is inserted into the channel of the at least one female fastener device to attach a chair component to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: KNOLL, INC.
    Inventors: Hendrik R. van Hekken, Jason Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20110052123
    Abstract: A strain-relief assembly for a field-installable fiber optic connector is disclosed, wherein the assembly includes a ferrule holder, an intermediate sleeve, and a crimp sleeve. The ferrule holder back section holds a buffered section of a fiber optic cable, while the ferrule holder front end holds a ferrule and a splice assembly. A stub fiber is held within the ferrule and the splice assembly so as to interface with a section of field optical fiber protruding from the buffered section. The intermediate sleeve engages and generally surrounds a portion of the ferrule holder back section and thus surrounds a portion of the buffered layer. An intermediate sleeve handler may be used to handle the intermediate sleeve and attached the intermediate sleeve to the ferrule holder back section. Stress-relief strands from the fiber optic cable are flared around the outer surface of the intermediate sleeve. A crimp sleeve is placed over the intermediate sleeve to hold the ends of the stress-relief strands in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Ray S. Barnes, Kristine A. McEvoy, David W. Meek, Scott E. Semmler
  • Publication number: 20110041314
    Abstract: A piping connector is provided having a ring configured to install around an external diameter of a pipe, the ring having at least one clamp closing portion that has an open uncrimped position and a closed crimped position, a piping shield connected to the ring, the piping shield having at least one penetration to accept the at least one clamp closing portion, wherein the piping shield covers an abutment end of the pipe to be connected, wherein a joint between the ring and the piping shield forms a connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Lin, Lei Zhang
  • Publication number: 20110033264
    Abstract: The invention proposes a blind fastening element, which is constructed similarly to a screw. The fastening element thus has a head (1), which is disposed on one end of the shaft (3) and has a contact surface, which faces toward the shaft, for contact on the object to be fastened. On the opposite front end, the fastening element has a punch face (7), which runs approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis and is enclosed by a closed punch edge (8). The diameter of said punch face is less than the diameter of the shaft, for example, the diameter is in the range of approximately 70% to 30% of the diameter of the shaft. The shaft itself may be smooth on its exterior, if the fastening element is to be used as a blind rivet, or may have a thread (9), however, if the fastening element is to be fastened after the punch procedure by rotating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Uwe Frank
  • Publication number: 20110011361
    Abstract: A device (22) is adapted to couple a finger follower (14) and a hydraulic lash adjuster (18) for use in a valve train (10) of an engine. The hydraulic lash adjuster (18) includes a plunger (34) having a longitudinal axis. The finger follower (14) includes a pocket (30) for receiving the plunger (34) and a protrusion (54) proximate the pocket (30). The device (22) includes a first portion (66) having an outer peripheral edge (70) and an inner peripheral edge (74), which defines a first aperture (82) configured to receive the plunger (34). The inner peripheral edge (74) of the first portion (66) includes at least one radially inwardly-projecting tang (86) configured to frictionally engage the plunger (34) to substantially axially secure the first portion (66) to the plunger (34). The device (22) also includes a second portion (78) coupled to the first portion (66) and extending substantially non-parallel to the first portion (66).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: KOYO BEARINGS USA LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7870656
    Abstract: Method for connecting two or more metal sheets or profile parts, especially of an automobile body segment as well as said automobile body segment. A method is described for joining two or more metal sheets and/or profile parts of which typically one is a high strength steel with the following steps. a) mechanically joining in a force-locking or frictional manner the metal sheets or profile parts at one or more connecting sites and subsequently b) thermally joining the connecting sites by means of pressure welding. With the method according to the invention in particular in the motor vehicle sector automobile body segments can be produced which display qualitatively very high quality point weld joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Wolfgang Eberlein
  • Patent number: 7854414
    Abstract: A cable clamp device for use in a well bore to secure cables to pipes and the like includes a flexible fastening member of relatively uniform cross-section, and a block that accepts the fastening member as it encompasses the circumference of the pipe in a loop. The cable clamp also and accepts the cable running axially along the pipe. The flexible fastening member overlaps itself, and is secured in a loop by deformation of its material. The height of the block from the surface of the pipe is greater than the height of the outer surface of the flexible fastening member and the surface of the pipe. The end surfaces of the clamp are angled with respect to the perpendicular of the pipe's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Company Limited
    Inventors: Phil Head, Marcus Dixon
  • Publication number: 20100287776
    Abstract: A method for assembling a part of a metal material and a part of a composite material, the junction of the two parts being achieved through a fastener having a substantially constant section and received in a first hole formed in the part of a metal material and a second hole formed in the part of a composite material. According to the disclosed embodiments and before assembling the aforementioned parts, the method includes: an expansion step for generating a field of compression stresses at the periphery of the first hole and locally in the material constituting the part of a metal material using an expansion tool; a single boring step for making the first hole and the second hole with a diameter Øfinal substantially larger than the diameter of the fastener in order to leave a gap between the inner walls of the holes and the outer surface of the fastener; and an assembling step for placing the fastener inside the holes for maintaining together the metal part and the composite part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS (SOCIETE PAR ACTIONS SIMPLIFIEE)
    Inventors: Nicolas Dantou, Stephane Bianco, Christian Godenzi
  • Patent number: 7823262
    Abstract: A repair/replacement nut plate assembly, which is fully preassembled, is provided which can be inserted into an oversized or reworked/reconditioned aperture of a workpiece after an original nut plate has been removed from the original aperture of the workpiece. The repair/replacement nut plate assembly includes a nut, a holding bracket, a stem, a nut retainer, and a sleeve member. The sleeve member is configured to be secured to a nut plate assembly, of the same type originally used to provide the original nut plate in the original aperture of the workpiece to compensate for material lost from the workpiece during the removal of the original nut plate. The sleeve member allows for the original nut plate assembly to be utilized, with only the securement of the sleeve member to the holding bracket prior to setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: SPS Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Rahmatollah Fakhri Toosky, Soheil Eshraghi