Collocating Patents (Class 33/613)
  • Patent number: 7472493
    Abstract: An apparatus for locating at least one site on a first side of a workpiece in a predetermined relation with at least one aperture located on a second side of the workpiece includes: (a) at least one first locus-fixing structure; each respective first locus-fixing structure of the at least one first locus-fixing structure being configured for effecting the locating at least one respective site of the at least one site; (b) at least one second locus-fixing structure configured for cooperating with the at least one aperture to substantially fix the at least one second locus-fixing structure with respect to the workpiece in an installed orientation; and (c) a substantially rigid connecting member coupled with the at least one first locus-fixing structure and the at least one second locus-fixing structure. The connecting member situates the at least one first locus-fixing structure substantially in the predetermined relation in the installed orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Schmier, II, Paul J. Strand
  • Publication number: 20080313916
    Abstract: A template apparatus is provided for the construction of a wall frame. A base section includes a plurality of base units. Each base unit has two ends and has two legs generally situated at an angle to one another to form an apex; A cross member is connected to both legs opposite from the apex. A pair of journal plates, are secured to the apex at each end and extending away from the cross members. A journal is located in each journal plate above the apex. A support shaft is mounted to rotate in the journals. A template section is mounted on the support shaft. The template section includes a plurality of longitudinal members. Each longitudinal member is secured to the support shaft. A pair of alignment members are affixed to the longitudinal members. The alignment members are located on opposite sides of the support shaft. Alignment pins are located on the alignment members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory A. Xedis, IV
  • Patent number: 7467479
    Abstract: A headstack locator assembly for locating and fixing a headstack on a spinstand and which mitigates the aforementioned prior art limitations. The headstack locator assembly includes a headstack locator received on a fixed locator. The headstack locator connects to a headstack, while the fixed locator is permanently secured to a spinstand. A vacuum is used to clamp the headstack locator to the fixed locator for testing of the headstack. Upon test completion, the headstack locator is released from the fixed locator by applying positive air pressure to the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Guzik Technical Enterprises
    Inventors: Nahum Guzik, Charles Brice Arnold, Vladimir M. Chevlioukevitch
  • Publication number: 20080295351
    Abstract: A label printing kit, system, and method of use is disclosed which enables a user to print and easily apply labels to one or more units of a product with precise registration of the label on each unit of the product. The system utilizes labels with adhesive on a backside and a jig so that the labels can be easily, rapidly, and precisely applied manually to one or more units of a particular product, item or object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Damon Borozny, Nakita Pope, David Baumgarten
  • Patent number: 7444754
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for aligning the wheels of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). The apparatus includes a wheel alignment fixture and a wheel position indicator adapted for releasable attachment to an all-terrain vehicle. The wheel alignment fixture and the wheel position indicator cooperate to indicate the alignment of a wheel of the ATV. The wheel position indicator may project a light beam at an indicating element portion of the wheel alignment fixture for this purpose. Preferably, a steering centering fixture is also provided to ensure that the steering of the all-terrain vehicle remains centered during the wheel alignment process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Joseph Hinshaw, Kyle DuBridge
  • Patent number: 7430813
    Abstract: The present invention provides device for measuring a seal gap of a vehicle, which more conveniently and precisely measures the dimensions of a space between a moving part and a mounting part of a vehicle body, thus more precisely controlling the tolerance of a gap defined between the moving part and the mounting part. The device includes a plate member installed in a gap created between a moving part and a mounting part of a vehicle body; a gap sensor mounted to the plate member and configured to measure the dimensions of the seal gap; a transmitter outputting a value measured from the gap sensor; a receiver receiving a signal output from the transmitter; and operation processing equipment configured to process a value from the receiver and output the dimensions of the seal gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Keun-Seop Park
  • Patent number: 7421797
    Abstract: A positioner for positioning a partition or a divider at a predetermined position in a cabinet, such as for mounting a pair of drawers. The cabinet includes left and right side walls. A partition holder mounted on a frame holds the partition parallel to the left and right side walls. A left slider, slidingly mounted to the frame, includes a left jaw, and a right slider, slidingly mounted to the frame, includes a right jaw. The sliders are coupled such that longitudinal sliding movement of either slider moves the other slider an equal and opposite distance and such that positioning the left jaw to abut and align with the left side wall and positioning the right jaw to abut and align with the right side wall positions the partition holder at a predetermined holding position between the left and right side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventors: Juvenal Servin, Brian Taber
  • Patent number: 7421799
    Abstract: A remote center compliance device with one elastic body is provided. In the remote center compliance device, an elastic center can be formed using one elastic body and the adjustment of the elastic center is easy. Further, since the number of parts is minimized, a manufacturing cost and a manufacturing process are reduced and an efficiency of installation space is maximized, thereby improving product competitiveness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Sang-Wan Joo
  • Patent number: 7421796
    Abstract: A positioning template for use in aiding in the hanging of objects on various supporting surfaces includes an electrostatically active template backing having a front surface and a rear surface, a plurality of perimeter markers shaped and dimensioned for releasable selective placement on the front surface of the template backing in a manner representing outer dimensions of an object to be hung, and a hole marker shaped and dimensioned for releasable selective placement on the front surface of the template backing to indicate a desired position of a hole for an anchoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Nancy DeAngelis-Morris
  • Publication number: 20080196262
    Abstract: A measuring device is provided that includes a vertical member, at least one hanging element and an adjustable ledge. The hanging element is fixedly attached to the vertical member and extends outwardly from a surface thereof. The adjustable ledge is selectively slideable in a vertical direction along at least a portion of the vertical member. The hanging element and the adjustable ledge cooperate to define a vertical distance therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Gina Bommarito
  • Publication number: 20080196263
    Abstract: A tool for precisely determining the height and setback of a bicycle seat so that the seat can be adjusted to desired parameters. The tool can also be employed to determine the exact height of a bicycle's frame. The tool includes an adapter member that is attached to the bottom bracket spindle of the bicycle after removal of the crank arm. An elongate measuring pole is attached to the adapter member. Measuring indicia are inscribed on the outer surface of the pole. The measuring pole is provided with two components adjustably positioned along the length of the pole. One component is adapted to attach to the frame of the bicycle. The second component includes an adjustable position rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Michael D. Okura, Billy B. McNeill
  • Patent number: 7412776
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a sensor such that the sensor touches an object at an arbitrary position in a three-dimensional space, the apparatus including a base member; a rotatable member which is rotatable relative to the base member about a vertical axis line; a first link device including a first stationary link, a first movable link, and two first pivotable links which are pivotably connected to the first stationary link and the first movable link, such that the first stationary link, the first movable link, and the two first pivotable links cooperate with each other to define a quadrilateral, wherein the first stationary link is fixed to the rotatable member such that the first movable link is movable in a plane containing the axis line; a second link device including two second pivotable links, and a second stationary link and a second movable link which are pivotably connected to the two second pivotable links, such that the two second pivotable links, the second stationary link, and the second movable l
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Unex Corporation
    Inventors: Katsushi Iikubo, Hidehito Sasaki, Hidenori Suzuki, Hiromasa Tsukahara, Chikao Harada, Hitoshi Hirano, Hiroshi Masuda
  • Patent number: 7406776
    Abstract: A mounting tool that includes a base extending along a first direction that is parallel to a longitudinal dimension of the base and a height gage attached to the base. The height gage includes a first leg attached to the base and extending along a second direction that is not parallel to the first direction and a second leg attached to the first leg and comprising a support portion extending along a third direction that is not parallel to the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Acu-Rite Companies Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Brumbaugh
  • Publication number: 20080148589
    Abstract: A positioning device has a first unit and a second unit arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the first unit. A slip-stick drive acts between the first unit and the second unit to produce a translatory movement (P) of the two units. The positioning device has a solid-body joint which is coupled to the first unit and the slip-stick drive and which mechanically protects a translation shaft of the slip-stick drive against rotation and/or lateral displacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Dirk Haft, Tobias Lindenberg, Christoph Boedefeld
  • Patent number: 7385502
    Abstract: A locator system includes a transmitter unit that is located on one side of a wall or barrier and generates a locator signal when activated and a receiver unit element that is located on the other side of the wall or barrier and is activated by the locator signal to indicate the exact and precise location at which the work is to be done.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: Richard L. Deola
  • Patent number: 7380346
    Abstract: A tool with a laterally and longitudinally extending open-sided channel, a protuberance projecting in a first transverse direction forward the front face of the tool and a second protuberance projecting in a second transverse direction rearward the rear face of the tool. The tool, with or without the second protuberance, may be used to hang an item upon a wall by (a) attaching the tool to a sawtooth hanger or a mounting orifice on the item, (b) supporting the item against a vertical surface at a desired hanging position and orientation, (c) pressing the supported item against the vertical surface with a force sufficient to cause the first protuberance on the tool to mark the vertical surface, (d) moving the item to expose the mark on the vertical surface, (e) securing a mounting pin to the vertical surface proximate the mark, and (f) suspending the item from the mounting pin by the sawtooth hanger or mounting orifice on the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey Emerson
  • Patent number: 7377048
    Abstract: The truss setting bracket has an elongated body member, a first cradle, and a second cradle. Each cradle is provided with a first and second finger that define a cradle face therebetween. The second cradle is designed to be secured, at ground level, to a truss that is to be set in place on top of a building structure. The first cradle is designed such that, as the truss is lifted into place by a crane, the second finger is used as a guide for spacing the current truss from the previously set truss. Each cradle allows successive trusses to temporarily held in place by the truss setting bracket until all the trusses have been set and they can be permanently nailed or tacked into place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond E. Koetter
  • Publication number: 20080115379
    Abstract: The present invention provides device for measuring a seal gap of a vehicle, which more conveniently and precisely measures the dimensions of a space between a moving part and a mounting part of a vehicle body, thus more precisely controlling the tolerance of a gap defined between the moving part and the mounting part. The device includes a plate member installed in a gap created between a moving part and a mounting part of a vehicle body; a gap sensor mounted to the plate member and configured to measure the dimensions of the seal gap; a transmitter outputting a value measured from the gap sensor; a receiver receiving a signal output from the transmitter; and operation processing equipment configured to process a value from the receiver and output the dimensions of the seal gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: Keun-Seop Park
  • Patent number: 7373733
    Abstract: A positioning aid for aligning a heavy machine is fitted to the underside of the heavy machine and is to be brought as desired into contact with a base support or floor. The positioning aid includes at least one aligning element for floatingly mounting the heavy machine in one plane when the positioning aid contacts the floor. A heavy heavy machine has a first movement system and the positioning aid. A method of aligning a heavy machine with a first movement system and a positioning aid includes coarsely positioning the heavy machine with the first movement system on a floor. The positioning aid is extended, so that the first movement system loses contact with the floor and is then floatingly mounted. The heavy machine is freely rotated and displaced on the positioning aid. The heavy machine is lowered onto immovable adjustable feet when reaching the desired position of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventor: Udo Ganter
  • Publication number: 20080092401
    Abstract: A universal blind marking apparatus is disclosed where the system includes components that are universally usable to identify where a wall should be cut or a hole should be drilled. The system includes a plurality of adhesive backed pads that are placed in the corners or along curved surfaces. When the surface to be marked is brought into contact with the pads. Some marking material is transferred through the pad identifying where to cut or drill on the surface. The apparatus also works for the marking of vent holes and the routing of electrical wires. In another embodiment the pads are fabricated with sides having different adhesive properties where the low adhesive side is adhered to an object and when the object is brought in contact with a surface the high adhesive side transfers the pad to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Tim Richard Holcombe
  • Patent number: 7360318
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning a female articulated connector while it is still mounted to the end structure of a rail car in a reconditioning fixture is disclosed. The apparatus is a centering tool having a generally annular cylindrical arc shape for placement against the bore of a female connector and against an alignment tube traversing the bore to ensure proper alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: TTX Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Brueckert, William A. Guess, Donald F. Kroesch
  • Patent number: 7360315
    Abstract: A tool system is provided for aligning and plumbing a poured concrete form (e.g., a lower vertical form portion) for forming a structural column assembly of the type used for erecting building structures and the like, such as a concrete column or footing formed in situ in an earthen hole. The system includes a center line running vertical to the length of the tool and a two-way level system incorporated therein. The tool can be used to line up the lower vertical form portion with a layout string and plumb the lower vertical form portion square. A metering pole that can be locked in place is used to lower and raise the tool into and out of the lower vertical form portion, wherein the tool is completely rotatable about the metering pole. Once the lower vertical form portion is aligned with the tool, the earthen hole is back filled, thus holding the lower vertical form portion in place in the correct position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Morton Buildings
    Inventors: Wayne A. Knepp, David E. Laux, Kevin Potter
  • Patent number: 7350312
    Abstract: Markers for mounting objects such as picture frames, mirrors, shelves and the like, to desired locations on a wall type surface without causing unnecessary holes to the wall surface. The markers can include target patches with target indicia such as crossed hairs, and bulls-eye patterns. The target patches can have a first adhesive side that is temporarily placed on mounting locations on the rear side of the object. The object with the target patches then is oriented and positioned to a desired optimum location on the wall and then pressed against the wall. Another adhesive side of the target patch that is stronger in adhesion than the first side allows for the target patch to transfer to the wall surface and remain on the wall surface. Nail type fasteners, and the like, then are attached by the location of the target indicia into the wall. Next the object is placed and mounted to the wall mounted fasteners so that the object can then hang from the wall mounted fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Dot Marks the Spot, Inc.
    Inventor: Susan K. Grillo
  • Patent number: 7347001
    Abstract: What is described is a pre-mounting system for pre-mounting a structural part to an attachment surface, wherein at least two heads, respectively provided as eccentrics, are provided at the attachment surface, the structural part comprises at least one recess and can be hung up on the attachment surface by said heads engaging said recess/recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Dr. Johannes Heidenhain GmbH
    Inventors: Ludwig Boge, Heinz-Gunther Franz, Hans-Joachim Freitag, Andreas Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7329076
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for indicating or gauging the position of one or more holes in a workpiece. In one aspect of the present invention reusable devices that can be removably engaged with a bore or tapped hole in a workpiece for accurately indicating the center axis of the bore or tapped hole are provided. An exemplary device in accordance with the present invention includes an expandable shank, indicating surface, and driving head. The driving head can be used to install the device into a hole in a workpiece. The expandable shank can be expanded to positively engage the device with the hole in the workpiece and the indicating surface can be referenced, with a probe, to determine the center axis of the hole in the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Hartney, Kim R. Heinicka, Winston S. Webb
  • Publication number: 20080010846
    Abstract: A hand tool (10) includes a generally planar body (12) having a thickness approximately equal to a predetermined desired spacing between two objects such as deck boards, a flange (16) having a contact surface generally perpendicular to the planar body, and a handle (14) extending from the flange in a direction away from the planar body. In use, the planar body is inserted between two boards while one or both boards are fastened to a substructure. The tool is removed by grasping the handle and either pulling it out or rocking it so that a portion of the flange acts like a fulcrum to pivot the planar body out of the space between the two boards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: John Frederick Bingham
  • Patent number: 7316078
    Abstract: A device for use in positioning a picture hanger on a wall. The device includes an elongated body member, a handle carried by an upper portion of the body member, a picture hanger defining a lower open hook portion pivotally mounted on the body member below the handle and an aperture extending through the body member adjacent the hook portion of the picture hanger. Upon hanging a picture or other object from the picture hanger, positioning the device against the wall so as to properly locate the object thereon for hanging and removing the picture or object from the device, a marking implement can be inserted through the aperture to identify the proper position for the securement of a picture hanger to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: James U. Hagman
  • Patent number: 7305774
    Abstract: A tool is provided for sizing a gap between adjacent deck boards or other objects. The tool includes a primary element of elongate rigid form and a secondary element affixed to the primary element. The secondary element is adapted to be placed within a gap to be sized. The secondary element has a cross-section which exhibits a greater thickness in a first direction than in a second direction. This tool is used in a gap sizing method, typically with multiple similar tools, where the tool is first oriented with a greater thickness aligned with adjacent objects on each side of the gap. The tool is then rotated about a long axis of the secondary element to exhibit lesser thickness and facilitate easy removal of the tool from the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Frank Whaley
  • Patent number: 7299554
    Abstract: A jig for face frame hinges may include a base and gripping members, wherein the jig may be secured to a frame member or a wall adapted to receive a hinge base plate and the hinge base plate may be abutted with a first hinge abutting edge of the jig. The gripping members may hold the jig in a selected position so that the hinge base may be abutted with the jig while fasteners are engaged through the base and into the frame member, or while holes are pre-drilled and fasteners engaged to mount the hinge base. The proper position may typically be with a second frame member abutting edge of the jig abutted with an adjacent adjoining frame member. Thus, the jig edges form stops for consistently and positively locating hinge bases of a face frame hinge at a predetermined distance from adjacent frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Stanley B. Klonowski, III
  • Patent number: 7299562
    Abstract: A device for mounting a position measuring device onto a machine tool includes at least one hanger tool, e.g., two hanger tools. Each hanger tool includes: a bracket detachably attachable to a housing of the position measuring device, e.g., at a respective end of the position measuring device; a mounting plate detachably attachable to a machine surface of the machine tool; and an adjustment device adapted to adjust a distance between the bracket and the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Acu-Rite Companies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Brumbaugh
  • Patent number: 7296365
    Abstract: A system for inserting a probe into a turbomachine. The system may include a male measurement fixture having a shaft and a female portion a housing for receiving the male measurement fixture. The male measurement fixture may include: a tip portion, an indicator, and a target zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Robert T. St. Louis, Tyler Jacobs, Elias Marquez, Heidi Channell
  • Patent number: 7293925
    Abstract: A device for marking upon a surface including a body assembly made of a resilient material, a cover member, a base assembly and a bottom cover. The body assembly has an outer wall, a central opening an upper end and a bottom end. The base assembly includes a marker rigidly attached to the center of the upper surface and a bottom surface. The upper surface is fixedly secure upon the bottom end of the body assembly in a way that the marker is housed within central opening. The bottom cover protects bottom surface. Cover member protects the upper end and the opening of the body assembly and prevents the marker from drying when the device for marking is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: CCN World, LLC
    Inventor: Nicolas Sanseviero
  • Patent number: 7290351
    Abstract: A bracket includes a fixing piece on a rotation element (3), said fixing piece comprising a body (22) in the general form of a ring, provided with an annular radial projection (23). The body includes an opening (33) which permits a variation in the diameter of said body (22) on assembly with engagement of the projection (23) in a corresponding groove (9) on the rotation element (3) to give a radial interference fit. A bar (28) prevents a variation in the diameter of the body (22) as above after the assembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Aktiebolaget SKF
    Inventor: François Niarfeix
  • Publication number: 20070234584
    Abstract: A wall-hanging-aid device comprises four retractable tape measures encased in a housing and at least one template for aligning a hanging position or hooking position of an object on a vertical surface, such as a picture on a wall. In one embodiment a first vertical tape measure extends from the bottom of the housing and includes a measurement scale and a lip for securing the tape to an item being measured. Opposite this vertical tape measure, a single aligning fin or template extends from the housing and includes a marking-hole guide for aligning the desired hooking position on the wall. The two other tape measures extend in opposite directions generally perpendicular to the vertical tape measure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Inventor: Antony John Robins
  • Publication number: 20070227026
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a scale, a system and a method for determining and/or simulating the proportional dimensions of a selected area of an object or a location, whereupon in a first step a scale with at least two target points having a defined or definable distance from one another is arranged on a selected area of an object or in a location, whereupon in a second step a reproduction is taken of the object or location by a camera, with a scale affixed in the selected area and whereupon in a third step, the reproduction thus taken is read into data processing equipment which is set up in such a way that the proportional dimensions in a selected area are determined or simulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Werner Krachtus
  • Patent number: 7275334
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for hanging a picture, or the like, on the wall surface, through utilization of a fastener position indicator spot, having a spot-shaped body including oppositely facing first and second adhesive surfaces thereof, to indicate a desired location for placing a fastener on the wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Patricia J. Horst
  • Patent number: 7275331
    Abstract: A tool for indicating the flushness between a vehicle body roof panel and a sunroof panel that is adjustably mounted within a sunroof opening of the vehicle body roof panel. The tool will signal a vehicle assembly operator in the event that the sunroof panel needs to be vertically adjusted up or down. The tool includes a housing that sits on the roof panel. A lever is pivotally mounted on the housing and has a feeler extending from the housing to contact with the sunroof panel so that the pivotal position of the lever relative the housing is determined by the degree of flushness or lack of flushness between the two panels. An indicator is associated with the lever to indicate to the vehicle assembly operator whether or not the sunroof panel needs vertical adjustment relative to the roof panel to obtain an acceptable degree of flushness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin T. Mills, Craig A. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 7269912
    Abstract: Mounting tools and methods for using mounting tools are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a mounting tool includes a template having a body configured to be releasably attachable to a support medium. The mounting tool further includes a projecting member configured to interface with the body. The projecting member is movable to project at an angle from the body for catching particulates. The projecting member can have several different configurations. For example, the projecting member can be integral with the body. Alternatively, the projecting member can be a discrete component with respect to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Omnimount Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Muday, Zachary Eyman, Korry Hoglan, Dave Anderson, Steve Singleton, Brett Stenhouse
  • Patent number: 7266902
    Abstract: A method and device for securing a sensor, a stereo camera in motor vehicles in particular, in which accurate alignment of the sensor holding element is achieved during assembly using an adjusting gauge having the dimensions of the sensor and optionally pins which are inserted into matching receiving parts of the sensor holding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Kurfiss, Ulrich Seger, Uwe Apel, Andre Skuppin
  • Patent number: 7261796
    Abstract: A machine tool is provided comprising a base, a slide assembly attached to the base for supporting a tool and translating the tool along an axis, and a workpiece holder attached to the base. At least one of the slide assembly and the workpiece holder are movable laterally with respect to the axis. Means are provided for aligning the slide assembly and the workpiece holder in a desired lateral relationship. A method of aligning a machine tool is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brett Wayne Byrnes, James Henry Madge
  • Patent number: 7252492
    Abstract: There is provided a device for transferring a pattern from a stamp to a substrate, provided with a moldable film, by pressing the stamp and the substrate against each other. The device comprises at least one fixture for retaining a planar object such as the stamp or the substrate. The device is distinguished in that it comprises a heating element for heating the planar object, and measuring arrangement for determining a change in the size of the planar object due to the heating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Obducat AB
    Inventors: Lennart Olsson, Peter Andersson
  • Patent number: 7246449
    Abstract: A template comprises a central member that has a recess adapted to receive and position the first portion of an alarm relative to the template. The central member has a first end and a second end. A longitudinal member extends perpendicular to, and coplanar with, the first end of the central member. The longitudinal member has at least one indicia for marking the installation location of the second portion of the alarm assembly on a second door. A flange extends from the second end of the central member in a plane perpendicular to that of the central member. The flange includes at least one indicia for marking the installation location of the second portion of the alarm member on a doorframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Detex Corporation
    Inventors: Josh Pierson, Gilbert Lombardo, Greg Drake
  • Patent number: 7240436
    Abstract: An alignment and positioning guide tool for use in mounting metal door frames in metal wall stud construction. The device is a one-piece integral unit having a pair of spaced parallel engagement legs extending from an integral body member. The free ends of the legs extend outwardly for selective engagement with the door frame. The tool is positioned over the stud wall mounting base plate and slidably positioned therealong for engagement reference of a door jam during framing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventors: Charles R. Miller, Brad Shultz
  • Patent number: 7234245
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for precisely locating and marking where to fasten an object, such as a plaque or photograph, on a surface, such as a wall are described. The apparatus comprises a fastening means, a main body, the main body having a first surface contacting the fastening means, and a second surface, an indicator, the indicator having a shaft extending from the second surface of the main body and ending in a distal end comprising a means for marking, and a compressible material encapsulating the indicator. The marking means may be a sharp point of metal or plastic, and may include a marking composition, such as ink, chalk, glue, and the like. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Donald Curtis Tatum
  • Patent number: 7216441
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring step height or depth against another surface with a measuring arm mounted horizontally beside the scale which has a beveled end allowing precise readings regardless if the apparatus is being held perpendicular, the apparatus has exchangeable measuring arms with various reaching capabilities, and a handle mounted to the top of the scale allowing the apparatus to be operated with one hand. A preferred embodiment includes the apparatus at four to five inches in length whereas an operator is able to measure height and depth in difficult to reach places. In one embodiment, the measuring arm is stainless steel and has longer measuring arms, the handle is made of any resilient material which allows the apparatus to be carried securely in one hand, pocket and or stored easily due to its small size, the apparatus disassembles for cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Alan Batora
  • Patent number: 7213346
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing siding boards comprises a body member, a siding-engagement member; and a cam member rotatably engaged with the body member. The cam member includes an eccentrically curved cam segment. The body member, siding-engagement member, and cam segment enable adjustment of vertical overlap of siding boards during installation with one of the boards engaged with the siding-engagement member and another board engaged against the eccentrically curved cam segment. A method for installing siding comprises engaging a pair of siding installation tools with an installed first siding board; positioning a second siding board against the eccentrically curved cam segments; adjusting vertical overlap of the boards by rotation of the cam members; securing the second board to an installation surface; rotating the cam members to disengage the cam segments from the second board; and disengaging and removing the installation tools from the first board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventor: Catherine A. Gregory
  • Patent number: 7210243
    Abstract: A level assembly includes a housing having a level mounted within. The housing includes a first arm and a second arm slidably attached to the housing. The first and second arms are both stored in storage positions. Fastener locators associated with each arm are both stored in storage positions. During use the fastener locators are pivoted to an extended position. If additional distance between the fastener locators is needed the first and second arms can also be extended by sliding them along another axis relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: The Faucet Queens, Inc.
    Inventors: William Schmidt, Kathleen Fisher, Jeffrey A. DeBoer, Michael Nellenbach
  • Patent number: 7207121
    Abstract: A digital measurement system is provided for an apparatus including first and second parts that are positionally adjustable relative to one another, the first part having a base surface and the second part being selectively adjustable toward and away from the base surface. The measurement system includes an elongate reference element mounted for longitudinal movement on the first part such that a first end of the reference element is positionable to be substantially even with the base surface of the first part. A digital reader head is attachable to the second part. The reader head is operable is operably engaged with and moveable along the reference element for measuring relative movement of the reader head along the reference element. The readout further includes a digital display for indicating a measurement corresponding to the relative movement of the reader head along the reference element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Barry Wixey
  • Patent number: 7207119
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a controller comprising: at least two input terminals, each of which is configured to receive one of at least two input signals comprising information on a positioning of a scanner relative to a reference medium, and an output terminal, which is connectable to the scanner and configured to transmit an output signal, which is used for controlling the positioning of the scanner, wherein the controller further comprises: a processing unit being operable to designate a corresponding weighting function to each of the at least two input signals, a magnitude of the corresponding weighting function being selected to be in accordance with a noise profile of the input signal to which it has been designated; the processing unit further being operable to simultaneously use the at least two input signals, each with the corresponding weighting function designated thereto, to design a transfer function of the controller for use in the production of the output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Evangelos S. Eleftheriou, Angeliki Pantazi, Charalampos Pozidis, Abu Sebastian
  • Patent number: 7194820
    Abstract: A punch press alignment instrument has upper and lower cylindrical components that are associated for vertical displacement relative to one another. Both components have outer tool holder engaging surfaces which are to be aligned with one another so as to in turn align the tool holders of the punch press when the upper and lower components themselves are in alignment. Alignment elements, e.g., ridges and grooves provided on mating surfaces of the components confronting each other are brought into contact with one another to move the components of the instrument into mutual alignment. An alignment control member, e.g., a screw is preferably provided for progressively bringing the upper and lower components toward one another and an indicator such as a lamp, a dial indicator or an audible indicator is provided for denoting the spacing between the upper and lower components to thereby confirm the alignment of the tool holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Mate Precision Tooling Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Schweiger, Todd M. Knetsch, Phillip R. Lysdahl, Christopher D. Morgan, Joseph C. Schneider