Traverses Interposed Facing Component Patents (Class 403/162)
  • Patent number: 11713072
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a steering knuckle, which has good rigidity and reliability. The steering knuckle includes: a wheel support portion for supporting a wheel; a damper support portion for supporting a damper; and an arm portion for connecting the wheel support portion and the damper support portion. The damper support portion is cylindrical and has a mounting hole through which the damper is inserted, and the arm portion includes a pair of side walls connecting the damper support portion and the wheel support portion and a bottom wall connected between the side walls, and the bottom wall is connected with the side walls at the middle portion in the vertical direction of the side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Nasu, Koji Takami, Kenichi Hibino
  • Patent number: 11671717
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide systems and methods for motion capture to generate content (e.g., motion pictures, television programming, videos, etc.). An actor or other performing being can have multiple markers on his or her face that are essentially invisible to the human eye, but that can be clearly captured by camera systems of the present disclosure. Embodiments can capture the performance using two different camera systems, each of which can observe the same performance but capture different images of that performance. For instance, a first camera system can capture the performance within a first light wavelength spectrum (e.g., visible light spectrum), and a second camera system can simultaneously capture the performance in a second light wavelength spectrum different from the first spectrum (e.g., invisible light spectrum such as the IR light spectrum). The images captured by the first and second camera systems can be combined to generate content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: LUCASFILM ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY LTD.
    Inventors: John Knoll, Leandro Estebecorena, Stephane Grabli, Per Karefelt, Pablo Helman, John M. Levin
  • Patent number: 11659679
    Abstract: A telescoping rail is provided that may be fitted to a rack from the interior of the rack, and that may be adjusted from the interior to adapt to racks of different depths. The rail includes an outer rail with pins configured to engage a rear rack post. A track in the outer rail is provided with anti-rotational nuts. An inner rail is fastened to the outer rail with screws passing through the inner rail to the anti-rotational nuts. The combined length of the inner and outer rails may be adjusted for the particular cabinet depth by sliding the anti-rotational nuts along the track and the screws tightened. The inner rail may be fastened to a front rack post. A third, moving rail attaches to a device to be housed in the rack, with the moving rail sliding within groves in the inner rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: ZI Group Int'l, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Dennis Marcade, Vladimir Lipnevici, Ellie Elsu
  • Patent number: 11575292
    Abstract: An anti-rotation device including a tapered sleeve elongated along a longitudinal axis wherein the sleeve including an inner surface defining an inner diameter, an outer surface defining an outer diameter varying along the longitudinal axis, a slot extended from the inner surface to the outer surface configured to provide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Liangheng Qiu
  • Patent number: 11242890
    Abstract: An articulating joint includes a linkage and a pin. The linkage includes a surface defining an opening. The pin extends along a pivot axis, and is disposed, at least in-part, in the hole. The pin has a core component made of a first material, and an outer component that at least partially circumferentially surrounds the core component and is made of a wear resistant material. The outer component includes a gradated sub-surface depth extending in a radial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Julie A. Swartz, Alyn M. Gray, Grant W. Brady, Zhe Li
  • Patent number: 11002403
    Abstract: A pivotal supporting system includes a pivotal supporting device disposed on a supporting base for supporting a remote member on the supporting base, the pivotal supporting device includes a housing having a compartment for engaging with a shank, the shank having a groove and a pathway aligned with an orifice and an aperture of the housing, a latch engaged into the orifice of the housing for engaging with the groove of the shank, a lock engaged into the aperture of the housing for engaging with the pathway of the shank, and a control ferrule is engaged onto the housing includes an actuating element and one or more actuating members for engaging with the latch and the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: OXTI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chih Feng Ho
  • Patent number: 10766383
    Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a lifter device lifting/lowering a seat cushion. The lifter device includes a link member coupling a side frame and a riser to each other, and a clinching pin coupling the riser or the side frame and the link member to each other. The clinching pin includes a first portion located on the opposite side of the link member from the riser, a second portion located in a position corresponding to a hole of the link member, a third portion located in a position corresponding to a hole of the riser, and a fourth portion that is located on the opposite side of the riser from the link member. A surface of the second portion facing the riser has a portion adjacent to the third portion, and the portion is away from a surface of the riser facing the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: TACHI-S CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiko Mike, Yudai Shouji
  • Patent number: 10131405
    Abstract: A bicycle control device is provided for operating a bicycle component. The bicycle control device includes a base member, an operating member, a take-up member and a pulling member. The operating member moves relative to the base member in opposite directions from a rest position to first and second operated positions. The take-up member moves relative to the base member in a take-up direction for pulling a control cable and a releasing direction for releasing the control cable. The pulling member is disposed on the operating member to move the take-up member in the take-up direction in response to an operation of the operating member toward the first operated position. The take-up member moves in the releasing direction in response to an operation of the operating member toward the second operated position. The pulling member contacts the take-up member while the operating member is in the rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Kazutaka Fukao, Yoshimitsu Miki
  • Patent number: 9950764
    Abstract: A bicycle operating device comprises a base member, an operating member, an operating structure, and an operating unit. The operating structure includes a take-up member movable relative to the base member to move a first operation cable in a pulling direction and a releasing direction. The take-up member is configured to move the first operation cable in the pulling direction to operate a first bicycle component in response to a movement of the operating member from a rest position to an operated position. The take-up member is configured such that the first operation cable is movable in the releasing direction in response to a release of the operating member from the operated position. The operating unit is configured to operate a second bicycle component in response to an input operation from a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Kazutaka Fukao, Yasuhisa Watanabe
  • Patent number: 9746013
    Abstract: A mounting clip and a mounting assembly include a mounting structure and the mounting clip. The mounting structure includes a mounting feature. The mounting clip includes a base, an inferior leg, and a catch. The base has a through hole therein. The inferior leg is disposed on an anterior side of the base. The catch is disposed on a posterior side of the base. The inferior leg and the catch are configured to engage the mounting structure when the mounting clip is assembled to the mounting structure, such that the mounting feature is accessible through the through hole when the mounting clip is assembled to the mounting structure. The mounting clip also includes a superior leg having a mounting aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: FCA US LLC
    Inventors: Steven L Talley, Tuan V Nguyen, Jeromy Tomlin, Dennis Turpin
  • Patent number: 9541109
    Abstract: A connector is described herein. In an embodiment, a connector may comprises an upper wall, a lower wall, one or more outer circular walls and one or more inner circular walls; wherein one of the one or more outer circular walls is an extended part of the upper wall or the lower wall; wherein one of the one or more outer circular walls and one of the one or more inner circular walls are configured to form a circular slot between the outer circular wall and the inner circular wall; wherein the connector is configured to accommodate a plurality of ends of a plurality of planar panels in the circular slot to connect the plurality of planar panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Inventor: Xiaoping Sun
  • Patent number: 9284975
    Abstract: An elastomeric bushing and a bearing which is equipped with the bushing in question. The bushing can, even after installation in the bearing, be pretensioned or calibrated, by displacement of elastomeric material in the interior of the bushing, where the displacement is carried out by different pressing means and tensioning means in the bushing and/or in the surrounding bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: FM Energie GMBH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Franz Mitsch
  • Patent number: 9120368
    Abstract: An articulated device includes a rivet assembly for connecting first and second linkage assembly support arms together at common ends thereof such that the arms are movable relative to one another. The rivet assembly includes a rivet having first and second rivet heads and a rivet shaft. The rivet shaft extends through first and second bearing holes in the common ends of the arms with the first rivet head being on the first arm and the second rivet head being on the second arm. The rivet assembly has a bearing sleeve extending between the rivet shaft and the bearing holes. The bearing sleeve has a collar-type stop and a shoulder-type stop adjacent the first rivet head with the collar-type stop lying against the first arm and the shoulder-type stop lying against the first rivet head. The bearing sleeve has a ring-shaped stop lying against the second rivet head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Magna Car Top Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Zehnder, Markus Sczuka, Michael Wohlfarth
  • Patent number: 8813912
    Abstract: A pivot block connection and assembly is disclosed. The pivot block assembly may include a pivot block connection and a gangway device having a stationary base and a pivotable access that is capable of being raised and lowered. The pivot block connection may include a first support body attached to a first side of the pivotable access, a first pivot bracket attached to the stationary base, and a first pivot rod spacer positioned between the first support body and the first pivot bracket. The pivot block connection may also include a second support body attached to a second side of the pivotable access, a second pivot bracket also attached to the stationary base, and a second pivot rod spacer positioned between the second support body and the second pivot bracket. A pivot rod may extend through the first pivot bracket, the first pivot rod spacer, the first support body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Sam Carbis Asset Management, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald W. Bennett, Sandy William Tyner, Ellie Harold MacDonald
  • Patent number: 8752234
    Abstract: A wiper connector which includes a connector body and at least one retaining plate, where the connector body has at least one through structure, and one end of the elastic fin is defined as a fastening portion for establishing secure coupling with the connector body. The elastic fin has an opening formed thereon which correspondingly aligning the through structure so that an inserted bolt is retained in the connector body by the retaining plate. The wiper connector is applicable on all bolt-type wiper arms, therefore, fewer disturbances are brought to the users in selection of the wiper connectors. Furthermore, the wiper connector has a simple structure which can be assembled and dismantled easily, where other advantages includes a low damage rate, a high adaptability, and a significant reduce in the expense. Thus, overcoming disadvantages of conventional wiper connectors such as having a complex structure and a poor adaptability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Dongguan Hongyi Wiper Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuan-Chin Ku
  • Patent number: 8616140
    Abstract: In an air seeder assembly having a base mount member with a at least one base ear with a base bore, and a seed boot with at least one boot ear with a boot bore, a fastening assembly mounting the seed boot to the base mount member is disclosed. The fastening assembly comprises a fastener structure fastening the seed boot to the base mount member by extending through the base bore and the boot bore. The fastening assembly includes a fastener interface device inserted into at least one of the bores. The interface device comprises a substantially tubular insertion portion inserted into the at least one bore and a flange portion connected to the insertion portion, and extends radially outwardly from the insertion portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Lakeview Hutterian Brethren
    Inventors: Danny Wipf, Joseph Hofer
  • Patent number: 8146227
    Abstract: A mobile platform is provided. The mobile platform includes a interior overhead structure and at least one compartment rotatably coupled to the interior overhead structure. The compartment is rotatable into an opened position and a closed position. The mobile platform further includes a pivot system coupled to the interior overhead structure and the compartment to enable the compartment to rotate into the opened position and the closed position. The pivot system comprises a first fitting that defines a raceway and a second fitting that defines a hub and a guide. The hub of the second fitting is for engagement with the raceway and the guide directs the first fitting into the second fitting to couple the first fitting to the second fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Chad D. Schmitz, Michael S. Haynes, Nelson J. Jeyarajah, Michael J. Malkinson, Christopher S. Pugh
  • Patent number: 8141503
    Abstract: In an air seeder assembly having a base mount member with a at least one base ear with a base bore, and a seed boot with at least one boot ear with a boot bore, a fastening assembly mounting the seed boot to the base mount member is disclosed. The fastening assembly comprises a fastener structure fastening the seed boot to the base mount member by extending through the base bore and the boot bore. The fastening assembly includes a fastener interface device inserted into at least one of the bores. The interface device comprises a substantially tubular insertion portion inserted into the at least one bore and a flange portion connected to the insertion portion, and extends radially outwardly from the insertion portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Lakeview Hutterian Brethren
    Inventors: Danny Wipf, Joseph Hofer
  • Patent number: 7806619
    Abstract: A shaft assembly having a first shaft and a second shaft interconnected by a bipot joint is disclosed. The first shaft and the second shaft are disposed in overlapping spaced relationship. The bipot joint includes a pivot block sandwiched between the first shaft and the second shaft. The pivot defines a mounting surface abutting one of the first and second shafts, and a semi-annular surface opposing the mounting surface and abutting the other of the first shaft and the second shaft. A fastener extends through a bore defined by the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft to interconnect the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft. The fastener includes a spring to bias the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft together, thereby de-lashing the bipot joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Joen C. Bodtker
  • Publication number: 20100209181
    Abstract: [Problem] To provide a two-member connection structure for a working machine, which can hold outboard members and their corresponding inboard members for relative pivotal movement without arrangement of stoppers for restricting rotation of flange portions and a connector pin. [Solution] A two-member connection structure is provided with an boom 4 to be arranged on a hydraulic excavator, an arm 5 arranged inboard the boom 4, outboard bushings 6 and inboard bushings 7 press-fitted in pin holes 4a, 5a of the boom 4 and arm 5, respectively, a connector pin 8 inserted in holes 6a of the outboard bushings 6 and holes 7a of the inboard bushings 7 to connect the boom 4 and arm 5 as two members for relative pivotal movement, and flange portions 9 integrally arranged on opposite end portions of the connector pin 8, respectively, to restrict slip-out of the connector pin 8.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Gokita
  • Patent number: 7762406
    Abstract: A modular folding shoe rack includes first and second side rails; first and second arms pivotably connected with the side rails at a first end of the arms; a first crossbar connected with the opposite ends of the arms; and a second crossbar connected with the side rails. Each side rail may also include complementary male/female connectors at its opposite ends to allow for connection of one side rail to another, resulting in a modular design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Whitmor Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Lu Zhi Qiang
  • Publication number: 20090087254
    Abstract: A shaft assembly having a first shaft and a second shaft interconnected by a bipot joint is disclosed. The first shaft and the second shaft are disposed in overlapping spaced relationship. The bipot joint includes a pivot block sandwiched between the first shaft and the second shaft. The pivot defines a mounting surface abutting one of the first and second shafts, and a semi-annular surface opposing the mounting surface and abutting the other of the first shaft and the second shaft. A fastener extends through a bore defined by the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft to interconnect the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft. The fastener includes a spring to bias the first shaft, the pivot block and the second shaft together, thereby de-lashing the bipot joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Joen C. Bodtker
  • Patent number: 7478968
    Abstract: A rocker pendulum for a motor vehicle has an oblong basic body via at least one fastening element, wherein the basic body is a hollow extruded section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AG
    Inventors: Georg Wolf, Frank Budde
  • Patent number: 7309186
    Abstract: A frame for a work machine includes first and second wall portions having an axially aligned bore positioned therein. A boom is positioned between the first and second wall portions and has a bore that is alignable with the bores in the first and second wall portions. A first insert is disposed within the bore of the first wall portion of the frame and a second insert disposed within the bore of the second wall portion of the frame with each insert having a bore therethrough. A pin cartridge assembly is positioned in the bores of the first and second inserts and the boom. The pin cartridge assembly includes a pin having first and second end portions and an outer surface. A first collar having a through bore and a counter bore at one end, the collar is disposed about the outer surface of the pin. A second collar having through bore and a counter bore at one end, the collar is disposed about the outer surface of the pin. A bushing has a stepped bore that is rotatably disposed about the outer surface of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas E. Oertley
  • Patent number: 7287928
    Abstract: A swing structure for a wheel set includes a central tube, an axial tube, a spacer, a sleeve, and a fastener. The central tube is provided with a ring plate at the rear end. The ring plate is formed with a through hole thereon. A connection cylinder is disposed at the middle section of the axial tube. The connection cylinder has one end provided with a ring plate. The ring plate of the connection cylinder has a through hole for the sleeve to insert through. The spacer has a through hole for the sleeve to insert through. The sleeve is hollow for the fastener to insert through. The fastener inserts through the sleeve and is secured in the through hole of the ring plate of the central tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Far Great Plastics Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ting-Hsing Chen
  • Patent number: 7270345
    Abstract: The assembly incorporates two plates. There are annular protrusions on one plate and a matching annular groove on the other. A central bolt and washer holds the plates in engagement while permitting rotation of one plate relative to the other. The cooperating annular grooves and protrusions transfer loads between plates. Ninety degrees of rotation causes the jack assembly to rotate from the vertical stowed position to the horizontal towed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Bernhardt Goettker
  • Patent number: 7246965
    Abstract: A method of assembling a link to a support, the link comprising a body that is elongated along a longitudinal axis between a first sleeve and a second sleeve that are part of the body, the first sleeve surrounding an inner strength member mounted to move relative to the body of the link about an axis of rotation, by a flexible coupling interposed between the strength member and the first sleeve, a passageway passing through the inner strength member substantially along the axis of rotation and the support having a fixing tab provided with a fixing orifice, the method including a fixing step in which the fixing shank is engaged by force along the axis of rotation into the fixing orifice and into the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hutchinson
    Inventors: Patrick Vanhille, Laurent Bodin
  • Patent number: 7223042
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting profile for structures used at fairs and exhibitions which is provided, on the exterior thereof, with longitudinally extending grooves for connecting additional supporting profiles, and which, in a core area, comprises a receiving compartment for a turnbuckle. This receiving compartment is part of an adapter piece which is inserted into guides of the supporting profile and which is axially retained by securing means that are inserted into bore holes of the profile. In addition, an end plate is provided which is adapted to the cross-section of the supporting profile, which is placed at least on an open face of the supporting profile, and which is connected to the adapter piece. This end plate can be configured as a shaped body in order to be adapted to the outer curvature of a round profile. In addition, the end plate can also comprise a joint part so that additional supporting profiles can be connected in an articulated manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Octanorm-Vertriebs-GmbH fuer Bauelemente
    Inventor: Hans Bruder
  • Patent number: 6814522
    Abstract: A pivot assembly particularly adapted for pivotally interconnecting a pair of relatively thin parallel walls spaced an appreciable distance from one another. A stud with a pivot joint on one end is interposed between the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Aluminum Ladder Company
    Inventor: James P. Daniel, III
  • Patent number: 6785931
    Abstract: Disclosed is a spacer of a windshield wiper for a vehicle including an upper panel, a pair of side panels extending downwardly from opposite lateral ends of the upper panel while defining a receiving space therebetween, the side panels being centrally formed with through holes, respectively, and annular protrusions protruded, toward each other, from the side panels around the through holes, and adapted to be fitted in through holes formed at an element of the windshield wiper to be assembled with the spacer, respectively. Each of the protrusions has a tapered structure having a diameter gradually reduced toward a free end of the protrusion, while having an annular step formed at the free end of each of the protrusions, and a plurality of slits formed at the annular step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: K.C.W. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong-Hyun Lee, Young-Ki Kim
  • Patent number: 6786111
    Abstract: A connecting rod including shaft with a major flange projecting outwardly from one of its ends and a minor flange projecting outwardly from the other of its ends. The major flange and the minor flange each have a number of holes for the passage of threaded fasteners. Abutting the minor flange is a ring with a transverse aperture. A number of threaded fasteners releasably join the shaft and the link together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Gardner Denver, Inc.
    Inventor: Berton L. Vicars
  • Publication number: 20040108437
    Abstract: A pivot arrangement between a mirror head and a mirror mounting bracket of a rear vision mirror for a motor vehicle which uses a disc spring with a negative spring rate over part of its travel. The disc spring has a height to thickness ratio of greater than {square root}2(1.414).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Maarten Johannes Schuurmans
  • Patent number: 6352383
    Abstract: A fastening adapter for fastening protectors to a helmet or other headgear includes a body part, a housing connected to the body part, at least one fastening device of the body part adapted to be fitted through a hole arranged in a wall of the helmet, at least one fastening device locking device for locking the fastening device and for pressing the body part onto the wall, which fastening device includes rotation prevention devices, to prevent the body part from rotating in relation to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventor: Arimo Ristola
  • Patent number: 6283667
    Abstract: The present oil filled pin joint includes at least one buffer member for absorbing rapid pressure increases or spikes in the oil contained in the joint. The present pin joint includes a pin, at least two opposed members joined by the pin for movement one relative to the other, the members defining a space therebetween, and at least one seal disposed between the opposed members sealably enclosing the space. The at least one buffer member is disposed in communication with the space, the space having a volume defined by the opposed members, the at least one seal, and the at least one buffer member. The space is at least substantially filled with oil and the opposed members are relatively movable to effectively trap at least some of the oil in the space and pressurize the trapped oil, the at least one buffer member being resiliently compressible by the pressurized trapped oil to reduce the pressurization to avoid damaging the at least one seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel R. Neitzel
  • Patent number: 5961141
    Abstract: In the pinned connections between frame members of articulated machines, it is typical to utilize one or more pin assemblies that have one or more spaces between the various components in the pin assembly. The present invention comprehends a pin assembly 10 that utilizes a first plurality of fasteners 82 to secure a first lock plate 72 to one of a pair of frame members 12 and 18. A first shim assembly 86 is included to remove any space between components along a first path of force transfer. A second plurality of fasteners 92 is utilized to mount a second lock plate 90 to a pin member 44. A second shim assembly 94 is included to remove any space between components along a second path of force transfer. The fasteners 82 and 92 work in conjunction with one another to greatly reduce flexing, and thereby the tendency for the fasteners to loosen, that occurs in a pin assembly 10 due to the transfer of forces therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Pankaj Goel
  • Patent number: 5769557
    Abstract: Past pin joint assemblies attaching a lift arm to a construction machine have utilized grease lubricated pins. Deflection of the pins during operation caused damage to both the pin and surrounding structure. Additionally, the use of grease requires daily lubrication schedules. The present invention overcomes these and other problems by providing an oil sealed pin joint assembly which virtual eliminates daily lubrication needs. A pin is utilized with a variable profile including first and second end portions which diverge inwardly from a first predetermined diameter and terminate at a second predetermined diameter. The second diameter is in substantial axial alignment with a contact surface of a first and second collar with first and second bearing assemblies, respectively. The pin diverges outwardly from the second diameter and terminates at a third predetermined diameter. A plurality of radii blendingly interconnect the first, second and third diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Charles E. Beals, Timothy A. Vik
  • Patent number: 5732577
    Abstract: A number of embodiments of wheel locks for vehicle wheels having an opening are disclosed. In each embodiment, the lock includes a plurality of pivotally connected elongated members having end members that are provided with a locking means for locking them together. As a result, the lock can be inserted through the wheel and around a fixed object and locked like a chain. Various embodiments are disclosed for protecting the pivot pins of the pivotal connections from attack and for restraining the pivotal movement of the elongated members. In some embodiments, the pivotal movement is restrained by placing a frictional drag on the components so that the elements cannot freely pivot. In other embodiments the degree of pivotal movement in one direction is limited more than in another direction so that the lock can only be installed in the correct relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Okada, Yasuyuki Muramatsu, Hiroshi Yamaoka
  • Patent number: 5720566
    Abstract: The present invention includes a method of relieving pressure within a sealed pin joint assembly so that the seal is protected from excessive pressure. The pin joint assembly includes slidably connecting a pin through a bearing assembly fitted within a bore in an equalizer bar. The pin is circumferentially surrounded by a pair of seals disposed on either side of the bearing assembly for sealing within the equalizer bar. The seals are positioned adjacent the bearing assembly to define a pair of cavities therebetween. A receiving passage extends from a counterbore at an outer surface of the equalizer bar and terminates at the bearing assembly and is fluidly connected with the pin joint assembly. A grease zerk is disclosed within the receiving passage to direct fluid into the joint wherein accumulation within the cavities is expected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Allen, Dean M. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5630673
    Abstract: A maintenance free pivot joint is disclosed that mounts a first member to a second member for relative rotation therebetween. The first member is positioned between a pair of brackets defined by the second member and both members define a plurality of bores aligned along a common axis (X). A pin assembly is positioned within the aligned bores and is secured on one end to one of the brackets and permits a small amount of axial and rotational movement of the pin assembly to allow the pin assembly to seek its own center upon connection of the two members to reduce wear and ease assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald F. Krzywanos, Timothy A. Schaper
  • Patent number: 5501421
    Abstract: A stay bar support for a door stop of a vehicle door assembly including a stay bar, which is connectable to the door or the door post, a support bracket connectable to the other of the door and the door post, and a spherical bearing which pivotally supports the stay bar on a gudgeon secured in the support bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: ED. Scharwa/ chter GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Bernd-Alfred Klu/ ting
  • Patent number: 5435661
    Abstract: A stamped link and a method of forming the link. The link is a clevis link formed of a single piece of sheet metal and includes a generally planar main body portion, a curl portion proximate the rearward end of the link forming a first bearing surface defining a rearward pivot axis, longitudinal edge flange portions upstanding from the main body portion, side wall portions upstanding from the main body portion proximate the forward end of the link inboard of each edge flange portion and each having an upper edge generally at the level of the upper edge of the associated edge flange, a central ridge upstanding from the main body portion between the ends of the link and blending at its forward end in the side walls, and aligned apertures in each edge flange and its associated side wall proximate the forward end of the link forming a second bearing surface defining a forward pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Radar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Zmyslowski, Erik W. Larson
  • Patent number: 5362171
    Abstract: A shackle toggle joint for driving a warp knitting machine comprising a housing of synthetic material having a metal ring (13) for holding a roller bearing (16) imbedded therein. The roller bearing (16) carries a joint bolt (11). The housing (12) further comprises a securing means in the form of a threaded bore (19) for holding a connecting element. There is thus obtained a higher working life for the roller bearing and a lower level of working noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Karl Mayer Textilmaschinenfabrik GmbH
    Inventor: Gerd Ritschel
  • Patent number: 5286132
    Abstract: A joint is described which has a pair of coaxially aligned elastic rings (5) of truncated conical form the respective vertices of which are directed in opposite ways and are engaged each between a central core (3) externally having an attachment surface (3a) of truncated conical form and an outer collar (4) internally having an attachment surface (4a) of truncated conical form converging towards a vertex (V) which is common to the converging vertex of the attachment surface (3a) of the core (3).Each elastic ring (5) comprises an inner layer made of elastomeric material (10) and an outer layer (11) made of elastomeric material between which a laminar insert piece of truncated conical form (12) is inserted, the inner (12a) and outer (12b) surfaces of which converge towards the common vertex (V) of the attachment surfaces (3a, 4a).The outer elastomeric layer (11) is greater in thickness that the inner elastomeric layer (10).The described joint (1) has an improved fatigue limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Pirelli Sistemi Antivibranti S.p.A.
    Inventor: Emilio Morini
  • Patent number: 5209594
    Abstract: An arrangement for locking a shaft or an axle to a machine member. The shaft has a cylindrical part which is intended to carry a bearing. The arrangement includes two expander sleeves which have a control internal shape and each of which is intended to be mounted on a respective end of the shaft of similar conical shape. The expander sleeves function as annular wedges with the apex of the wedge facing towards the cylindrical part of the shaft or axle and when tightening a nut are caused to expand against the machine member and lock the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Inventors: Roger Svensson, Evert Svensson
  • Patent number: 5193787
    Abstract: A sleeve and bushing assembly for mounting a shock absorber to a motor vehicle and reducing road vibration experienced by the motor vehicle, as well as a method of manufacturing the assembly. The sleeve and bushing assembly includes an elastomeric bushing having first and second ends and an axial bore extending therebetween. A tubular cylindrical sleeve extends through the axial bore and terminates in a first shoulder at one end thereof and in a second shoulder and neck portion at the other end thereof. A first retaining washer is mounted on the sleeve adjacent the first shoulder and the first end of the bushing. A second retaining washer is mounted on the sleeve adjacent the second shoulder and its neck portion of the second end of the bushing. A spacer ring is mounted on the sleeve's neck portion adjacent to the second retaining washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Maremont Corporation
    Inventor: Alan F. Coopland, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5139283
    Abstract: This invention discloses an adjustable and foldable ski pole which comprises two pole sections hinged together to be foldable into a uniquely convenient compact structure that can be carried safely and easily and can be easily stored in a car, boot bag or its own nylon bag while being adjustable for users of different heights. The ski pole has an especially robust construction to be durable and suitable for professional use. Further benefits are provided for retailers and ski rental agencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Inventors: Robert L. Dow, Philip S. Kornblum, Jay S. Lief
  • Patent number: 5088881
    Abstract: A tractor-loader-backhoe is disclosed wherein the loader mechanism is mounted on the frame of the prime mover by a tapered pivot pin or sleeve having a fastener extending entirely through the axis of the pivot pin or sleeve to effect a clamping load operable to seat the tapered pivot pin or sleeve in the conical hub affixed to the frame of the prime mover to assure a firm fastening of the loader mechanism on the prime mover. The backhoe mechanism is provided with a transport lock remotely actuatable from the operator's cab mounted on the prime mover and incorporating a locking pin having a concentric spring mounted thereon to urge the pin out of engagement with the frame whenever the transport lock is disengaged to permit operation of the backhoe mechanism. The boom and dipper members of the backhoe mechanism are constructed from a pair of opposing C-shaped channels having inwardly directed legs centrally located within the boom and dipper members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Ford New Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry L. Ball, Russell I. Johnson, Daniel D. Radke
  • Patent number: 5082387
    Abstract: A pivot joint for a rotary lever has a spacer extending axially from a foundation such as an engine motor component. The spacer includes a cylindrical ferrule. A rotary lever and a belleville spring, both having a bore of a size to fit over the outside of the ferrule in a sliding fit, are slid over the ferrule. The belleville spring has an uncompressed cone height to thickness ratio of 1.4 to 1.8 and is compressed by at least 50% of the uncompressed cone height. The joint also includes a means for fastening the spacer to the foundation and a means for securing the lever and belleville spring onto the ferrule. The securing means bears against the free end of the ferrule to compress the spring to provide a substantially uniform operating torque from one assembly to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Kevin B. DeVries
  • Patent number: 5044812
    Abstract: A sealed and lubricated pivot pin assembly and method for joining linkage components in earth-moving machinery. The pivot pin assembly includes a pivot pin subassembly, a pair of spacer rings, a pair of track chain type annular seals, an end cap subassembly, and a releasable fastener. The spacer rings simplify joint assembly by setting up and controlling the proper squeeze on the annular seals, preventing crushing of the annular seals during torquing of the releasable fastener, and controlling the set-up length of the assembled joint so that no shimming is required. Each of the pivot pin and end cap subassemblies include an end sleeve which extends beyond the joint clevis or brackets a sufficient distance to allow the pivot pin assembly to float axially and, thereby, compensate for minor deflections in the joint members. The pivot pin assembly is symmetrical in that the pivot pin and end cap subassemblies have common dimensions which permit the pivot pin assembly to be installed from either side of a joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Clarence A. Ardelt, Jack M. Deli
  • Patent number: RE34659
    Abstract: A device for changing the axle orientation in a balance beam suspension operates by introducing a variable axial eccentricity between an axle carrier and the beam hanger to vary the amount of yaw on the axle to enable the wheels on the axle to be oriented in alignment with the vehicle axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Inventor: Bruce J. Reilly