Abstract: A magnetic raking device for cleaning up of dangerous ferro-metallic particles in and around construction jobsites, parks and playgrounds. A device able to perform the duties of both a conventional rake and a magnetic pick up device in one simple step. A hand operated magnetic raking device comprises a housing with a magnet or magnets placed inside. Teeth extending away from the housing are shaped in a fashion as to provide maximum agitation in surfaces such as grass, gravel and hard packed dirt. Device can be used inverted with the teeth facing up along smooth surfaces to pick up ferro-metallic particles without agitation. A handle is mounted to the housing to provide for easy push/pull use of the device. Length of head and handle may vary according to size and scope of area to be raked and cleaned of ferro-metallic particles such as nails and screws.

Abstract: A hand-operable device of mounting an anchoring pin and inserting the pin into the ground includes a hand-graspable elongate handle having an upper under and a lower end and a magnetic puck assembly fixed to the handle lower end for picking up an anchoring pin and maintaining in an insertion position until the pin is inserted into the ground.

Abstract: A workpiece gripping device includes a primary catching mechanism having a suction pad adapted to hold a workpiece by suction power and a rod-like part having the suction pad mounted on one end thereof, gripping pawls sandwiching and gripping the workpiece, a drive unit for supplying a drive power, and a transmission mechanism transmitting the drive power of the drive unit to the gripping pawls. The transmission mechanism moves the gripping pawls along an axis of the rod-like part between a gripping position where the gripping pawls are projected beyond the suction pad and a retreated position where the gripping pawls are retreated from the suction pad toward the base plate. The gripping pawls are moved to the gripping position along the axis of the rod-like part while shortening the distance between the gripping pawls.

Abstract: A gripper for a removable lid of a kitchen utensil is provided, which can be fixed to a top of a lid through the action of a magnet on a magnetic component. The gripper comprises a base plate and an operating member that can move relative to the base plate between a magnetizing position in which the force exerted by the magnet on the magnetic component allows the gripper to be secured to the top, and an isolating position in which this force is not strong enough to secure the gripper to the top.

Abstract: An easy operated pick up tool comprises a body which includes a first tube member, an extending tube, and a second tube member; an actuating post fitted into the first tube member, between the actuating post and the first tube member being defined a first resilient element, wherein the actuating post including a holder and a string inserted into a front end of the second tube member to connect with an expandable paw; a cell set received in the holder; a bulb disposed in the second tube member and including a first leg connected with a first electrode of the cell set; a controlling assembly including a receiving cylinder screwed with the holder to receive a stem for pushing an electricity conducting shaft which contacts with a second electrode of the cell set; a magnetic attracting member having an insulation sleeve fitted on the body and including a magnet loop.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving magnetic material includes an electromagnet for lifting the magnetic material where upon its release, the residual magnetic flux of the lifted magnetic material is reduced. The apparatus includes a generator coupled to the electromagnet. The generator includes a control input and an armature having a voltage output. A controller has an output coupled to the generator's control input and armature voltage output, whereupon receiving a release material signal from an operator interface panel to release the magnetic material from the electromagnet, the controller transmits a plurality of control signals, one of which is at least partially dependent upon the duration of a previously transmitted control signal, to effectively alternate the polarity and reduce the magnitude of the magnetizing force of the electromagnet.

Abstract: Magnetic retrieval tools for use in a wellbore or other tubular member to remove metallic debris. A magnetic retrieval tool includes a tool body having a central shaft with a plurality of ribs that project radially outwardly therefrom. The ribs present lateral sides that have recesses formed therein. Magnet bars are retained within the recesses by wedge members and retaining rings. The magnet bars include a hollow protective housing that encloses a plurality of magnets. Retaining plugs are used to secure the magnets within the housing.

Abstract: A magnetic retrieval tool used for collecting metallic debris and material from within a wellbore or other surrounding downhole tubular. The tool includes a tool mandrel with one or more pockets formed in its outer radial surface. A removable insert resides within each pocket. Each of the inserts retains a plurality of individual magnets in a fixed array or matrix surrounding the mandrel.

Abstract: The mobile climbing robot (15) according to the invention comprises a central joint (3), by which a first leg (1) is connected to a second leg (2). In addition, the robot comprises a first foot (8) which is connected to the first leg (1) by way of a first foot joint for rotation (5) and a first foot joint for tilting (4). A second foot (9) is connected to the second leg (2) by way of a second foot joint for rotation (7) and a second foot joint for tilting (6). A mounting (11) for attaching an implement (10; 12) is disposed on the first foot (8).

Abstract: An integrated vacuum and magnetic gripper includes a rigid housing defining an internal chamber, and a flexible vacuum cup operatively connected thereto. A vacuum cavity is defined by the vacuum cup and a vacuum source is configured to reduce pressure in the vacuum cavity. A permanent magnet is disposed within the rigid housing, and a magnet release mechanism is configured to selectively render the magnet incapable of exerting sufficient force to hold the work piece. A pole plate may be interposed between the internal chamber and vacuum cavity, such that the pole plate forms a portion of the internal chamber and may act to provide friction on the work piece. A method of using the gripped includes operating at high acceleration while the vacuum gripper is monitored as fully operational and operating only at lower acceleration while the vacuum gripper is not fully operational.

Abstract: An electromagnetic lifter (1) comprises at least two polar expansions (2, 3) shaped for transporting a horizontal axis coil (4) of hot-rolled steel, the polar expansions (2, 3) being connected through a ferromagnetic circuit (5) and respective cores (6, 7) around which solenoids (8, 9) are arranged, furthermore around each of said cores (6, 7) there is arranged a detection coil (10, 11) suitable to detect the change in the flux linked to the coil (4), and a control unit (16) connected to the detection coils (10, 11) compares the values detected by each of them in order to authorize or not the transport. The relevant operating method includes a first check that the difference between the values detected by the two detection coils (10, 11) is below a preset threshold, and in the affirmative a second check that the overall decrease in the linked flux is below a second preset threshold, the issue of a signal of authorization to the transport being possible only in case of positive outcome of both checks.

Abstract: A system for detecting, capturing and retrieving a wire, optical cable, string, coaxial cable, or other line or object from within a wall or other type of enclosed structure. The system uses magnetic forces to detect and capture the object through a wall or other type of structure of the enclosure. The system also comprises a retrieval mechanism for drawing the object toward an opening in the enclosure for retrieval from the enclosure.

Abstract: Picking apparatus for handling an electronic device having an elongate dipole antenna includes: a support body having an open slot defined by guide fingers; and an antenna positioning mechanism such as a magnet positioned to move the antenna into the slot and holding the antenna within the slot in an elongate condition. The magnet may be switched to an off condition to release the antenna from the slot or mechanically overcome. An apparatus push rod actuator may be deployed to move the antenna from the slot and deposit the antenna on a receiving component surface external of the slot.

Abstract: A surgical magnetic retrieval tool for retrieving objects attractable by a magnet lost in a surgical cavity during a surgical procedure. The tool is a permanent magnet having a size and shape adapted to be placed in and moved through a surgical cavity to attract and hold the objects for retrieval of them from the cavity, and a flexible tether is attached to the magnet for supporting the magnet, pulling it through the cavity, and retrieving the magnet and objects attracted thereto from the cavity. In one form of the invention the magnet is a flexible magnetic sheet; in another form it is a sphere; in another form it is an oblate spheroid; and in another form it is a disc. The tool is disposable following use.

Abstract: A work aligning system capable of easily altering the kind of works to be aligned. The work aligning system (1) comprises a storage device (10) in which nuts (11) are stored, a take-out base (30) on which the nuts (11) are placed, and a robot (20) for grasping and taking out the nuts from the take-out base (30) and aligning the nuts. An electromagnet (53) is provided at the tip end of the robot arm (23) of the robot (20). The storage device (10) is equipped with a plurality of buckets (131-134) in which nuts (11) of different kinds are stored, and a feed screw mechanism (14) for moving one bucket selected from the plurality of buckets (131-134) to a position near the take-out base (30). The take-out base (30) is equipped with a part (31) on which the nuts (11) are placed and a drive device (32) for discharging the nuts (11) on the part (31) to one bucket selected from the plurality of buckets (131-134).

Abstract: An apparatus for providing diagnostics of a work device includes an electric crane including an operator cabin and a derrick that supports a lifting magnet; a diagnostic panel disposed proximate the operator cabin; a device that provides one or more operating parameters associated with an operation of the electric crane; and a logic controller in communication with the device and diagnostic panel. The logic controller receives the one or more operating parameter. The diagnostic panel provides one or more quantifiable diagnostics of the electric crane and/or magnet according to the one or more operating parameters received by the PLC. A method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for handling devices, such as reticles, in a semiconductor manufacturing environment. In one illustrative embodiment, the device includes a body, a plurality of spaced-apart grippers and a plurality of magnets for producing a magnetic force to secure a semiconducting substrate or reticle between the spaced-apart grippers. In one illustrative embodiment, the method includes providing a pick comprised of a plurality of spaced-apart grippers and generating a magnetic force to grasp a semiconducting substrate or a reticle between the grippers.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning metal debris from a magnetic tool (some tools of which have magnetic properties) is disclosed. For one embodiment, the magnetic cleaner comprises a magnetic element suitably sized to interface with a surface of a tool associated with metal debris. A housing comprising a magnetic interface constructed of magnetically transparent material surrounds the magnetic element wherein the remainder of the housing is optionally constructed from material that forms a magnetic barrier. The magnetic element may be movably associated with the housing allowing the magnetic element to be associated/disassociated with the housing magnetic interface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving magnetic material includes an electromagnet for lifting the magnetic material where upon its release, the residual magnetic flux of the lifted magnetic material is reduced. The apparatus includes a generator coupled to the electromagnet. The generator includes a control input and an armature having a voltage output. A controller has an output coupled to the generator's control input and armature voltage output, whereupon receiving a release material signal from an operator interface panel to release the magnetic material from the electromagnet, the controller transmits a plurality of control signals, one of which is at least partially dependent upon the duration of a previously transmitted control signal, to effectively alternate the polarity and reduce the magnitude of the magnetizing force of the electromagnet.

Abstract: A method for affixing an electronic device having an elongate dipole antenna to a substrate surface includes: positioning picking apparatus adjacent to the electronic device, the picking apparatus having at least one antenna positioning means such as a magnet positioned adjacent the electronic device; activating the antenna positioning means; moving the opposite antenna ends into a captured relationship with the picking apparatus by means of the antenna positioning means; moving the picking apparatus to a position adjacent the substrate surface; engaging the substrate surface with the picking apparatus; and depositing the electronic device to the substrate surface.

Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses a hand tool that assists in the removal and replacement of hearing aid batteries. The tool has a specially designed tweezer frame to aid in holding and placement of the small batteries. One side of the tweezer tip has a magnet that provides additional capabilities with holding the battery. The opposite side of the tweezer tip consists of a sharp point that aids in positioning or removing batteries from the battery compartment. Although the tool can benefit anyone who wears a hearing aid, it is particularly useful for the elderly.

Abstract: A workpiece gripping device includes a primary catching mechanism having a suction pad adapted to hold a workpiece by suction power and a rod-like part having the suction pad mounted on one end thereof, gripping pawls sandwiching and gripping the workpiece, a drive unit for supplying a drive power, and a transmission mechanism transmitting the drive power of the drive unit to the gripping pawls. The transmission mechanism moves the gripping pawls along an axis of the rod-like part between a gripping position where the gripping pawls are projected beyond the suction pad and a retreated position where the gripping pawls are retreated from the suction pad toward the base plate. The gripping pawls are moved to the gripping position along the axis of the rod-like part while shortening the distance between the gripping pawls.

Abstract: A surgical magnetic retrieval tool for retrieving objects attractable by a magnet lost in a surgical cavity during a surgical procedure. The tool is a permanent magnet having a size and shape adapted to be placed in and moved through a surgical cavity to attract and hold the objects for retrieval of them from the cavity, and a flexible tether is attached to the magnet for supporting the magnet, pulling it through the cavity, and retrieving the magnet and objects attracted thereto from the cavity. In one form of the invention the magnet is a flexible magnetic sheet; in another form it is a sphere; in another form it is an oblate spheroid; and in another form it is a disc. The tool is disposable following use.

Abstract: A tool for the removal of magnetic debris from worksites. The tool comprises means for the collection and self-removal of magnetic debris from the tool. A magnetic portion resides within a non-magnetic portion and magnetic debris is collected on the exterior of the non-magnetic portion. Removal of the magnetic portion allows collected debris to be removed from the tool. One embodiment of the invention is a rake.

Abstract: A paper clip removing device capable of removing a paper clip made of a shape memory alloy, that has such a shape that a plurality of documents are bound at a normal temperature and a document bundle is released in a heated state, when the paper clip is on any positions on an end side of a document is provided. When a paper clip made of a shape memory alloy, that has such a shape that a plurality of documents are bound at a normal temperature and a document bundle is released in a heated state, is removed, the paper clip removing device detects a position of the paper clip to heat the paper clip and deforms the paper clip into a shape of releasing a document bundle to attract and remove the paper clip, resulting that the paper clip is collected in the collecting box.

Abstract: A method for operating an electric crane, comprises the steps of activating a magnet controller to cause a current to flow through a magnet for creating a magnetic field about the magnet for securing a load to the magnet, receiving a feedback input value at a logic controller from a device associated with the electric crane, in response to the received feedback input value at the logic controller, receiving a command value at the magnet controller from the logic controller, and in response to the received command value at the magnet controller, modifying the current flow from the magnet controller to the magnet to change the magnetic field about the magnet. A system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A lifting magnet having a housing, a rotary magnet unit, and a stationary magnet unit. The lifting magnet also includes a pinion, a socket moving up and down, a slider rotating the pinion to set the magnetization and demagnetization states at top and bottom dead points, respectively, a locking part provided in one of the socket and the slider, a locking unit provided in the other, including a locker, and moving both the socket and the slider up and down while the locker is locked to the locking part, and a locking unit driver alternately driving the locking unit to make the locker released from and locked to the locking part at first and second moving operations, respectively. With this configuration, the lifting magnet can stably keep on and off states of an attractive magnetic force and conveniently performs lifting and carrying operations.

Abstract: A magnetic pick-up tool is described having a first, small diameter, high field strength permanent magnet pellet, permanently secured within a holder presenting a pole face at a distal tip of a probe extending from a handle, and at least a second, removable, small diameter, high field strength permanent magnet pellet stored, seated adhering in a receptacle located in the proximal end of the handle having a bottom composed of a high magnetically susceptible material.

Abstract: A magnetic raking device that agitates a ground surface and uses magnetic attraction for collecting ferro-metallic debris, such as nails and screws, at construction jobsites and other locations, includes a release mechanism that temporarily eliminates magnetic attraction of the debris to the rake, thus allowing collected debris to drop from the rake, such as into a trash or recycling container. One type of release mechanism physically removes one or more magnets from the rake body to eliminate magnetic attraction to the rake body. One type of release mechanism uses electromagnets in the rake body that attract ferro-metallic debris when current is allowed to run through the electromagnets, and that allows the debris to drop from the rake when the current is interrupted. The magnetic rake may be used in an inverted position to attract ferro-metallic debris without agitating, and may be used in a non-magnetic state as a conventional rake.

Abstract: A device for attracting metal particles which comprises a longitudinal member having a first and second end and a first magnet connected to the first end. The first magnet has a surface. The device further includes a housing connected to the second end which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal member. The housing has a second magnet disposed therein. A plate having a surface area is secured to the housing and is positioned within a proximity to the second magnet such that the plate is capable of attracting metal pieces thereto. The surface area of the plate has a substantially larger square area than the surface of the first magnet.

Abstract: A bailer is configured to remove particulate solids from fluid passing through the bailer. The bailer preferably includes a housing that includes an intake and an outlet to permit the flow if well fluids through the housing. The bailer also includes a magnetic plate that includes at least one aperture that provides a path for the fluid flow. The bailer optionally includes one or more elongate magnetic bars that extend along the longitudinal axis of the bailer housing. The bailer can be used in conjunction with other components in a downhole pumping system, a surface pumping system or a transport system.

Abstract: A device includes two handle elements with a can support on one handle and a can contents engaging unit on the other handle element. A trigger mechanism is included to ensure complete draining of the fluid from the can and various adapter elements are also included so the device can be used with cans of various sizes. A wall mounting element is also included.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole tool for removing metallic debris from a well bore. The downhole tool includes a plurality of magnets disposed on the tool body. The plurality of magnets are arranged in a bucking arrangement such that repulsing forces are generated between neighboring pairs of the plurality of magnets. The bucking arrangement results in an expanded reach of the magnetic fields of the magnets to enhance the removal of metallic debris.

Abstract: The magnetic tool has a narrow, elongate, rigid shank having a handgrip end and a selectively extendible and retractable magnet at the opposite working end. Various mechanisms are provided at the handgrip end to extend and retract the magnet. The working end of the tool may be provided with a polygonal (e.g., hexagonal, square, etc.) receptacle for the removable installation of a tool bit or square drive socket therein. The retracted magnet retains the bit or socket within the receptacle as desired. The magnetic tool is particularly well-adapted for insertion into a pushrod passage in the cylinder head of an overhead valve engine, for retracting a valve lifter away from the lobe of the camshaft to facilitate removal and replacement of the camshaft. A linear scale depth gauge may be provided, and an adjustably positionable collar may be provided to hold the tool with the lifter retracted.

Abstract: A gripping device for gripping an object has a vacuum gripper; a magnet disposed within the vacuum gripper and moveable between a gripping position and a retracted position; gripping vacuum for moving the magnet to the gripping position; and release for moving the magnet to the retracted position.

Abstract: An illuminated magnetic retrieval apparatus includes an illumination module which includes a handle portion which houses a battery power supply and which houses illumination circuit means powered by the battery power supply. A flexible optical fiber light conveyance is connected to the handle portion for receiving light from the illumination circuit means. The illumination circuit means include an illumination actuation switch and a light source operated by the illumination actuation switch. The handle portion further includes a housing-mounted electrical connector and an electromagnet actuation switch that is electrically connected to the housing-mounted electrical connector. An electromagnetic retrieval module is connected to the illumination module with cap-shaped handle connection means. The electromagnetic retrieval module also includes a flexible tube for jacketing the flexible optical fiber light conveyance.

Abstract: A magnetic adsorption device comprises: a magnetic circuit block having a cavity extending in one direction and divided into a plurality of magnetic pole members at intervals in the circumferential direction of the cavity by a plurality of spacers; and a permanent magnet assembly having an N pole and an S pole and capable of rotating selectively at a first and a second positions spaced apart about an axis of the cavity so as to adsorb and release a magnetic substance. Adjoining spacers about the axis are distant by an angular space of less than 180° about the axis.

Abstract: It is described a gripping device for vials or similar containers, comprising a tubular body attached to one end of a movable supporting vertical shaft and gripping means associated to said tubular body. Said gripping means comprise non-mechanical gripping members, able to be connected with one end of a vial or container by face-to-face soft contact.

Abstract: A multi faceted retrieval tool for use by an individual positioned above the ground in retrieving items beneath the location of the individual, comprising a series of hooks extensible beyond the periphery of the tool for engaging, securing and retrieving items which are susceptible to being engaged by a hook, and being nestable in the tool when not in use, and, further, having a magnet for the retrieval of items engageable by a magnet, and a line which is selectively extensible to engage the items to be retrieved and retractable once the item is secured to bring the item to the individual user.

Abstract: A magnetic boat docking system includes an elongated pole having a handle end and a working end and a docking line having a magnetic member attached thereto. The pole has a magnet for attracting the magnetic member of the docking line where the magnet is located adjacent the working end of the pole. The pole also has a hook adapted to aid in grasping the docking line and a rod slidably extending within the pole with the magnet attached thereto in order to retract the magnet within the pole to release the line.

Abstract: A walking stick or cane comprises a support having a foot at one end thereof and a handle at the other. A gripper device adjacent the foot includes a shoehorn assembly pivoted to the support for movement toward and away from the foot for grasping objects between the end of the foot and the shoehorn assembly. The gripper device is operated by a trigger mounted adjacent the handle and a rod generally parallel to the support. In one embodiment, the shoehorn assembly includes a shoehorn which acts to grasp an object. In another embodiment, the shoehorn assembly includes a shoehorn which does not act to grasp an object. A permanent magnet on the handle allows the user to invert the cane and pick up iron objects. Because the magnet is adjacent the handle, it does not collect floor debris during normal use.

Abstract: A magnetic lifting machine according to the present invention is to prevent an antioxidant film on the surface of neodymium magnets from exfoliation, by having the neodymium magnets not be in direct contact with a pair of polarity plates of the machine but via anti-exfoliation plates made of non-magnetic material. The anti-exfoliation plates are fitted to both sides of a rotor containing the neodymium magnets therein between the polarity plates, and each of the anti-exfoliation plates may include a plurality of holes for oil storage radially therethrough.

Abstract: A metal-debris magnetic scavenging tool useable inside a buried, horizontal metallic pipeline through an access opening which has been cut into the upper wall portion of the pipeline overhead where the resulting debris has collected. A raiseable/lowerable and rotatable array of magnets, surface exposed, and operating moveably as a unit, agitate and collect debris principally within an area-footprint which allows for clearance lifting and removal of collected debris through the access opening.

Abstract: A multi faceted retrieval tool for use by an individual positioned above the ground in retrieving items beneath the location of the individual, comprising a series of hooks extensible beyond the periphery of the tool for engaging, securing and retrieving items which are susceptible to being engaged by a hook, and being nestable in the tool when not in use, and, further, having a magnet for the retrieval of items engageable by a magnet, and a line which is selectively extensible to engage the items to be retrieved and retractable once the item is secured to bring the item to the individual user.

Abstract: It is described a gripping device for vials or similar containers, comprising a tubular body attached to one end of a movable supporting vertical shaft and gripping means associated to said tubular body. Said gripping means comprise non-mechanical gripping members, able to be connected with one end of a vial or container by face-to-face soft contact.

Abstract: A magnet assembly for attaching to nails, bolts, metal shavings and other magnetic-conducting objects. The magnet assembly includes an elongate housing having side and end walls, and also having openings in the end walls; and also includes an assembly of producing magnetism including coiled wires being disposed in the elongate housing, and also including a battery being disposed in the elongate housing and being connected to the coiled wires, and further including an on/off switch being movably mounted to the elongate housing and being connected to the battery and to the coiled wires; and further includes at least one magnetizable tool being removably received through one of the openings of the elongate housing for picking up small objects.

Abstract: A magnetic lifting system for converting a skid loader into a magnetic lifting apparatus for transporting ferrous metals. The magnetic lifting system includes a platform attachable to a loader of a tractor, an arm member attached to the platform, and a magnet attached to the arm member by at least one chain. A generator upon the platform is mechanically connected to a hydraulic motor that is fluidly connected to the hydraulic system of the tractor to generate electricity. The generator is electrically connected to a controller which is electrically connected to a rheostat for controlling current flow to the magnet. The rheostat is electrically connected to the magnet by a power cable. The arm member is preferably slidably positioned within a receiver tube for allowing distal adjustment of the position of the magnet with respect to the platform.

Abstract: An accessory attachment device for a magnetic retrieval tool includes a ferrous base member having a substantially flat surface for magnetically securing to a magnetic tool and an accessory attachment member extending from the surface; and an accessory member connected to the attachment member.

Abstract: Device for separating, lifting and transporting sheets of aluminium or other non-ferromagnetic material consisting of a spider attraction assembly provided with a series of blocks of magnets and with contact electrodes, which by way of the effects produced by Lorentz forces, together with the action of a series of vacuum pads, is provided with the capacity to attract sheets of aluminium.

Abstract: A system for transferring a steel slab from a first roller table to a second roller table by lifting the top slab from a stack of slabs on the first table, and then transferring and lowering the slab onto the second table. Specifically, a gantry-type bridge trolley mechanism having suspended electromagnets is provided that is motor driven on a cantilevered runway over the slab unpiler table and the furnace table. A stabilizer system minimizes sway of the electromagnets and the slabs.