Encompassed Side Patents (Class 403/191)
  • Patent number: 11788299
    Abstract: A modular system including a surface-defining assembly having a plurality of panels. Each panel includes a plate portion, a first connector disposed towards and extending along a first side of the plate portion, and a second connector disposed towards and extending along a second side of the plate portion. The first and second connectors of adjacent panels are configured to engage one another to thereby engage the plurality of panels with one another in side-by-side relation such that the plate portions cooperate to define a continuous surface of the surface-defining assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Inventor: Mark Bonner
  • Patent number: 11649841
    Abstract: The tie rod assembly union includes a tube sleeve and a tie rod shaft that extends into the tube sleeve such that the tie rod shaft and the tube sleeve overlap with one another. In the overlapping area, each of the tie rod shaft and the tube sleeve has at least one set of openings. A C-shaped clamp is disposed about the tube sleeve. The clamp has a curved inner surface which engages both tube sleeve halves. The clamp has a first set of apertures which are spaced outwardly from the curved inner surface and a second set of apertures which extend to the curved inner surface. A first fastener extends through the first set of apertures to tighten the clamp onto the tube sleeve. A second fastener extends through the second set of apertures and through aligned openings in the tie rod shaft and tube sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC
    Inventor: Trevor G. Seibert
  • Patent number: 11319703
    Abstract: A representative roof frame structure incorporates: paired wood sloping beams respectively extending from a ridge portion toward eaves on opposite sides from each other; a hanging portion hanging vertically downward from the ridge portion; and two steel braces respectively installed between lower faces of the sloping beams and side faces of a lower end of the hanging portion, wherein one end of each of the steel braces is pin-jointed to a beam-side fixing portion protruding from the lower face of the sloping beam, and the other end of each of the steel braces is pin-jointed to a hanging-portion-side fixing portion protruding from the side face of the lower end of the hanging portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: SEKISUI HOUSE, LTD.
    Inventors: Takeshi Nakagawa, Kazumi Hijikata, Shinji Utsunomiya, Jun Mikuriya, Ryousuke Sato, Naruhiko Nakano, Shintarou Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 10062980
    Abstract: A safety termination apparatus for connecting to a power conductor has first and second galvanic connections, a sensor wire, and an insulating housing. The first and second galvanic connections are connected to an uninsulated portion of the power conductor and a sensor wire is electrically connected to each galvanic connection. The insulating housing encloses the galvanic connections and has first and second compartments for enclosing the first and second galvanic connections. The first and second compartments separate the first and second galvanic connections such that the first and second galvanic connections are not electrically connected to each other than through a mutual connection to the power conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Rachel M. Bugaris, John C. Senese, Derek W. Blanton
  • Patent number: 9722329
    Abstract: Apparatus for making electrically conductive contact with an electrically conductive, elongated, body, for example a pipe or cable. Apparatus includes a base body having a metal carrier element configured as a clamp clampable around body to be contacted, and open in circumferential direction. Apparatus includes a connecting device with a connecting member, by which ends of carrier element are connectable or connected to one another when mounted. Apparatus has a contact device for establishing electrically conductive connection between body contacted and conductor, such as grounding cable. A connecting member configured for cooperating with a guide device for guiding translatory motion of connecting member, and situated at free ends of carrier element so that in mounted position of apparatus, translatory motion of the connecting member between a guide start and a guide end of guide device achieves a nondestructively detachable form fit, connecting free ends of the carrier element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Quesy GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Britta Daume
  • Patent number: 9133634
    Abstract: A scaffolding system provided with standards each with an imaginary standard longitudinal central axis, first ledgers each with two extremities, first ledger couplings each connected at the extremity of a first ledger to the first ledger and which are configured for connecting the extremity of the first ledger to a standard, supporting projections which, viewed in the direction of the standard longitudinal central axis, are provided at regular distances on the outer surface of a said standard, wherein with a first ledger in a condition coupled to a standard, the first ledger coupling of the respective first ledger rests on a said supporting projection. Also, a coupling, a ledger and a standard intended for such a scaffolding system are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Scafom International B.V.
    Inventor: Franciscus Jozef Leonardus Hubertus Brinkmann
  • Patent number: 8807657
    Abstract: A method and an attachment clamp for attaching a seat belt to a seat frame of a bus seat are provided. The attachment clamp includes at least one upper arm having at least one slot disposed through the at least one upper arm. The attachment clamp includes at least one lower arm that is received within the at least one slot of the at least one upper arm. A receiving channel is defined by the at least one upper arm and the at least one lower arm. The receiving channel is configured to receive the seat frame. The upper arm and the lower arm are pivotable with respect to each other and are fastenable to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Erik C Wilson, David M Gerst, Samuel D Wagoner, Patrick E Temple, SanJeev Vij, Eric DeView, John Swenson
  • Publication number: 20110017014
    Abstract: An axle housing (110) for clamping with a clamp assembly (118, 218) to a spring (16, 216) of a suspension system (14) of a vehicle, the clamp assembly having at least two U-bolts (120, 220) each having a curved portion (136, 236) and two generally linear legs (128, 228) extending therefrom, and a clamping plate (122, 222) for receiving and attaching the legs of the U-bolts to form an enclosure that clamps the axle housing (110) to the spring (16, 216), the housing having a generally oval shape in cross section. The axle housing (110) has a generally planar fore side (132), a generally planar aft side (134), a generally rounded top surface (144) and a generally rounded bottom surface (146), wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface are sized and arranged to mate flushly with the curved portion (136) of the U-bolts (120).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan D. Batdorff
  • Patent number: 6435755
    Abstract: A passage communication member is fitted in a first passage in a structural member, and has a head which is mounted in a slot in another structural member. The first passage in the structural member and a passage in the other structural member are held in communication with each other through a through hole that is defined in the passage communication member. Alternatively, a first engaging member is inserted in a recess defined in a structural member, and a second engaging member is retained in a slot in another structural member. When the first and second engaging members are coupled to each other by a fastening member, the structural members are firmly joined and fixed to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigekazu Nagai, Koji Sugano, Hiroyuki Shiomi, Takeshi Nagai
  • Patent number: 5492032
    Abstract: A steering wheel bracket used to permit the pilot of a marine vessel, such as a sailboat, to steer the vessel from a location remote from the steering wheel. The invention permits the operator to move about the vessel for a better view during such activities as tacking or jibing. It also permits the operator to select between steering methods, i.e. the vessel can be steered via the regular method or it can be a tiller handled vessel. The bracket consists of a first larger block and a second smaller block clamped together around the spoke of and against the inside curvature of the steering wheel. This second smaller block is sized to fit within a notch in the first larger block. One end of a tiller extension removably fits within an opening in the larger block and by using such extension, the operator at the other end of the tiller extension is able to steer the vessel from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Gerald W. Hartman
  • Patent number: 5426996
    Abstract: A fixing device for securing a handlebar stem of a bicycle includes a handlebar stem having vertical and level portions. The level portion has a receiving element formed on a free end thereof for securing a handlebar therein, the vertical portion having a scroll-like tube with one end thereof overlapping the other to form an inner part and an outer part. An opening is formed in the outer part and a first lug is formed on an edge of the opening and a second lug is formed on inner part and extends outwardly through the opening, such that the tube securing an upper end of a front fork by screwing a bolt therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Kalloy Industrial Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Chang
  • Patent number: 5355746
    Abstract: A mount for optional equipment for bicycles. The mount is mounted on handle bars of bicycles. A number of pairs of flanges are attached to or formed on the mount. A pair of flanges is attached to or formed on each item of optional equipment. The pairs of flanges attached to or formed on the mount engage with the pairs of flanges attached to or formed on the items of optional equipment, so that the items of optional equipment are mounted on the mount in a quickrelease way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: Topeak Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Lin
  • Patent number: 5343666
    Abstract: A space frame for an automotive vehicle includes a plurality of structural members and joint constructions for joining and locking at least a pair of the structural members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Charles J. Haddad, Robert L. Maliszewski
  • Patent number: 5320444
    Abstract: A threaded rod has a ball at one end and a stationary jaw at an opposite end with an end cap covering the end of the rod. A threaded collar pushes a movable jaw along the threaded rod toward the stationary gripping jaw by turning the collar clockwise. The movable collar has a cylindrical dome which covers the threaded rod and the end cap. An interior sleeve secured to the threaded collar at one end by an interior ring has a ridge at the other end of the interior sleeve which pulls the movable jaw away from the stationary jaw by turning the collar counter-clockwise to release the jaws. The ball on one end of the clamp is inserted in an existing float and lock ball system attached to a stabilizing post on an operating table bed. The clamp secures surgical apparatus in place over the patient on the operating table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventors: John R. Bookwalter, William H. Bookwalter
  • Patent number: 5303900
    Abstract: A plastic security handrail system made with lightweight, high strength, non-corrosive plastic pipe having a plurality of elongated spaced rails mounted between end supports. A plurality of individual coped sections are held together by a compression force to form center posts spaced from the end supports. The system includes coped fitting joint connectors for perpendicular connections between rails and posts and rabbeted joint connections for connecting various rail sections together to form a rigid, strong railing system for a wide variety of uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventors: James E. Zulick, III, William F. Appler
  • Patent number: 5297890
    Abstract: A wood-to-pipe connection in which a single sheet metal connector and a single threaded straight bolt are used to connect a wood frame member to an elongated pipe member. The elongated pipe member could be a metal conduit, standard pipe member or even a solid circular wood pole member. The wood-to-pipe connection is especially useful in attaching wood fencing to metal pipe used for fence posts. The sheet metal connector may be field bent by hand so that the same sheet metal connector may be used in connecting fence rails at mid-rail connections, butt joints, outside corners, inside corners and sloping fences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Alfred D. Commins
  • Patent number: 5271687
    Abstract: A space frame for an automotive vehicle includes a plurality of structural members and joint constructions for joining the structural members together such that the outer surfaces of the structural members are substantially flush with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Thomas C. Holka, Sean W. Tant
  • Patent number: 5251956
    Abstract: A foldable table attachment is connected to the side bar of a collapsible chaise lounge for pivotal movement between a storage position and overlying engagement with a surface of the seat portion of the chaise lounge and a use position wherein the table top extends generally horizontally outwardly from the seat portion. A pivotal leg structure on the table top is pivotal from a storage position parallel to the table top to a use position extended downwardly from the table top for ground support. Upon pivotal movement of the table legs and table top to their storage position and upon collapsing of the back and leg support panels of the chaise lounge and leg members of the chaise lounge to their storage positions, the collapsed lounge chair may be stored in the same space required for storage of the chair alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Dawn Martinson
    Inventor: Willis J. Hofmeyer
  • Patent number: 5201334
    Abstract: A crutch including a tubular body, an arm support formed in an upper portion of the tubular body, and a hand grip fixed to a middle portion of the tubular body by a sleeve member which is mounted on the middle portion of the crutch and has a pair of flanges superposed with each other whereby each flange has a screw hole formed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Jui F. Tseng
  • Patent number: 5193930
    Abstract: A coupling for securing a handlebar stem on a front fork including a tube engaged on the upper end of the front fork, a shank fixed on the tube, an opening formed in the shank close to the tube, the tube including a pair of panels, a lug extended from each of the panels, and a bolt engaged between the lugs for coupling the lugs together in order to fix the tube on the front fork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Yi C. Chi
  • Patent number: 5186570
    Abstract: The fastening device (5) for the releasable fastening of a strut (3a-3d) to a column (1) comprises a retainer ring (7), attachable to the column (1), and a connecting element (9a-9d) for connecting the strut (3a-3d) to the retainer ring (7). The connecting element (9a-9d) has at one of its ends diametrically opposed jaws (33a, 33b) which extend around the lateral surfaces (16a) of the retainer ring (7) whereby the strut (3a-3d) is fastened to the column (1) safe from twisting even with respect to large torques and bending moments. The exact horizontal position of the strut or struts (3a-3d) can be adjusted by rotating the retainer ring (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: USM U. Scharer Sohne AG.
    Inventor: Rudolf Graf
  • Patent number: 5181747
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a joint, in which method around the sections (14, 15) to be joined to each other sections of a sealing element (12, 13) are placed and the joint (16) is heated by a form (10). A reinforced plastic is used for the joining compound (12, 13), and sections (11a, 11b) of the form (10) are pressed, in a manner known per se, around the members (14, 15) surrounded by the reinforced plastic sealing member sections and to be joined to each other in the joint (16). The invention also relates to a joint manufactured by the aforementioned method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Assignee: Neste Oy
    Inventor: Olli Jovero
  • Patent number: 5119690
    Abstract: A handlebar structure of a cycle including a stem having a shank extended forward, a notch formed in the front end of the shank, a coupler coupling a handlebar to the shank and including two members each including two elements formed integral with each other, the elements of the members forming two cylindrical spaces for receiving the shank and a middle portion of the handlebar when the members are fixed together, and a tongue formed in one of the members and engageable with the notch of the shank so that the coupler can be prevented from rotating relative to the shank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Hung-Chern Shu
  • Patent number: 5104251
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for securing fittings to composite structures such as those composites formed out of resin-embedded fibers is disclosed. The invention includes the use of support structures wrapped around the fittings such that the support prevents the fitting from movement when a compression load is applied thereto. The support serves to transfer the force of the compression load into the entire body of the composite structure so that the force will be absorbed by the structure. In one embodiment of the invention, the support structure comprises a composite fiber tow formed of high tensile strength fibers impregnated with a matrix material. The composite fiber tow is fibers wrapped around the fittings to form suspension strands. As the matrix material cures the composite fiber stiffens to hold the fitting in place against the composite structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Heath Tecna Aerospace Company
    Inventors: Gregory L. Fillman, Richard W. Randall
  • Patent number: 5069573
    Abstract: A device for releasably securing together two elongate cylindrical members in predetermined transversely extending relation and in selected axial and rotational relation. The device includes a housing (12) having a first bore (30) in which one end of a cylindrical member (B) is received, and a second bore (14) extending through the housing transversely to the first bore. The second bore is sized to receive a second cylindrical member (A) with close sliding fit. The device includes a key latch (40) and ring cam (60) which are couplable with the housing and the second cylindrical member for urging the second cylindrical member into frictionable engagement with portions of the sidewall of the second bore so as to lock the second member in the housing in selected axial and rotational relation to the first member. The force with which the second cylindrical member frictionally engages the sidewall of the second bore varies as a function of the rotational position of the ring cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: UCO, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy H. Blake, Carl R. Blake
  • Patent number: 5064157
    Abstract: A mounting bracket used to mount a crossbar on a handlebar of a bicycle, motorcycle or similar vehicle. Two of the mounting brackets, one at each end of a crossbar, are used to mount the crossbar on a handlebar. Each mounting bracket has a sleeve portion that fits around the handlebar. The sleeve portion is clamped to the handlebar by a first bolt passing through apertures in clevis arms extending outward from the sleeve portion that are integrally formed with the sleeve portion. The crossbar has a lug at each end thereof. Each lug of the crossbar is secured between the clevis arms of a corresponding one of the mounting brackets by a second bolt that passes through apertures in the clevis arms and the lug. The first bolt is located between the end of the lug and the handlebar, and the second bolt is located between the end of the lug and the ends of the clevis arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Assignee: Jim O'Neal Distributing, Inc.
    Inventor: James M. O'Neal
  • Patent number: 5049005
    Abstract: A device and process for reinforcing underwater structures of branched joints having a main element (1) and at least one secondary element (2), one end to which is integral with the surface of element (1). The device incorporates a flange (3, 3'), a first portion (3') of which is initially fixed to the secondary element (2), and a second portion (3') of which is thereafter fixed to the first portion. The flange portions define an annular space between the flange and the elements. A liquid composition which generates an elastic polymerized material (4) is introduced into an enclosure to fill the annular space and encapsulate the flange, which enclosure defines the outer boundary of the polymerized material (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Assignee: Irete S.A.
    Inventors: Francois Lazare, Roger Genet
  • Patent number: 5048994
    Abstract: An improved connector comprises a coupling sleeve, a cylindrical connecting block, and a bellows hose. The coupling sleeve has a base member on its outer surface. The base member has an annular ring and an engaging pin protruding from the base member, the end of which is formed as a wheel-shape disk. The connecting block is provided with a receiving hole, an annular ring, and a peripheral flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Inventor: Juan, Sung Y.
  • Patent number: 5028161
    Abstract: The invention provides a structural dismantable joint assembly for joining a first to a second structural framework member, comprising a band clamp sized to embrace the first structural member and provided with a pair of alignable spaced-apart apertures near the ends thereof, the second framework member, being of hollow cross-section and having at least one end provided with two opposing holes, the ends of the band clamp being insertable into the second framework member between the holes, the apertures being in alignment with the holes, and a tightenable bolt unit configured for insertion through the opposing holes and the apertures, whereby on tightening of the bolt unit the ends of the band clamp are brought more closely together as result of pressure being applied by the opposing walls of the second framework member, the assembly being thereby fastened to hold the two framework members in selectable angled relationship to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Inventor: Alex Peleg
  • Patent number: 5025821
    Abstract: A playpen canopy for a playpen having elongated supporting members. The canopy includes a framework having elongated rods which extend generally alongside of the supporting members of the playpen, horizontal rods which are connected to the elongated rods, a sheet of flexible material which is attached to the horizontal rods for forming a roof for the playpen canopy and a plurality of connecting elements for releasably connecting the elongated rods of the canopy to the elongated supporting members of the playpen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1991
    Inventors: Dorothy R. Page, Gerald G. Berg
  • Patent number: 4969374
    Abstract: A bicycle handlebar attachment includes a stem adapted at one end for connection to the head tube and having an eyelet at its opposite end for receiving the handlebar crossbar. The eyelet is divided by a slit into two jaws, one of which defines a threaded blind hole and the other of which has a partially-threaded through-hole aligned with the blind hole for receiving a screw for clamping the jaws together to tighten the eyelet on the crossbar. When the screw is released from the blind hole, an abutment plate can be inserted in the slot and the screw tightened aginast it to force the jaws apart to allow the crossbar to be inserted in or removed from the eyelet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Assignee: 3T S.p.A.
    Inventor: Lucio Borromeo
  • Patent number: 4958807
    Abstract: A rail assembly is provided which includes a rail support bracket. The rail support bracket is an extruded member have a rail receiving opening and a pair of legs. Each of the legs has a plurality of parallel locking wedge means. The locking wedge means is transverse to the legs. The legs are capable of being received in a rail structure having locking wedge means at right angles to and positioned for engagement with the plurality of parallel, longitudinally extending, inwardly directed wedge shaped locking means. The assembly can also include first rail member and a second rail member, each having one end received in the rail receiving opening, and a wedge locking means. The wedge locking means has a first region force fit between an end of the first rail member and the bracket rail receiving opening and a second region force fit between one end of the second rail member and the bracket rail receiving opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Inventor: Glenn J. Wylie
  • Patent number: 4953896
    Abstract: A structure for connecting a branch pipe in a high-pressure fuel manifold employs a nut to fasten the branch pipe to a main pipe, the nut having threaded surfaces which are simultaneously brought into thread engagement with the branch pipe and a coupling member which is secured to the main pipe in such a manner as to surround the peripheral wall thereof. Therefore, it becomes unnecessary to conduct a welding operation which has heretofore been needed to connect the joint portion of the branch pipe to the main pipe. The connecting structure satisfactorily endures ultra-high fluid pressure even under vibrations. In addition, there is no fear of fuel leaking out through the joint nor risk of the branch pipe coming off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Ltd.
    Inventor: Masayoshi Usui
  • Patent number: 4951925
    Abstract: A fence and connector assembly having connector brackets mounted near the top and bottom of the fence posts, each bracket having a vertical sleeve and side flange members spaced to receive the ends of rails therebetween, and L-shaped bracket securing and rail mounting studs between the flange members. The rails have limited pivotal movement on the distal ends of these studs to accommodate uneven terrain, and are secured thereon by spring retainers within the rails. Between the vertically spaced, generally horizontal rails are vertical rungs, each having its lower end in aperture in the lower hollow rail and its upper end in an aperture into the upper hollow rail. Locking rods extend through the rails and through these transverse apertures adjacent the ends of the rungs, securing the rungs to the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Assignee: Alternate Number Thirteen
    Inventors: David H. Schultz, Steven W. Mattson, Donald E. Heinz
  • Patent number: 4923176
    Abstract: A fence connector assembly is provided with a connector bracket defining a vertical cavity for receiving a fence post, in which vertically oriented, laterally extending side members project from the side of the bracket parallel to each other and spaced apart. A swivel bracket having a pair of spaced legs connected by a convex bearing portion, engages the side members so that the legs form a rail receiving pocket therebetween. The bearing portion has a horizontally elongated slot. The lock fastener extends through the slot into threaded engagement with the connector bracket enabling the swivel bracket to be swivelable to selected positions to allow selected orientation of a rail relative to the connector bracket and a post therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Harbor Towne Fence, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Heinz
  • Patent number: 4921370
    Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for connecting a first tube section to a second tube section that has a hollow tubular wall. The assembly includes a base member for being mounted to the first tube section, a collet member for being received in an open end of the second tube section and matingly engaged around the base member, a screw having a head for engaging the first tube section and having an extending threaded shank, and a threaded receiving nut for threadingly engaging the screw shank and urging the collet member axially into increasing mating engagement with the base member when the screw is rotated. The base member and the collet member together define cooperating wedge means for urging at least a portion of the collet member increasingly radially outwardly as the base member and the collet member are increasingly axially engaged so as to force the collet member into tight engagement with the second tube section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Hirsh Company
    Inventors: Milton E. Handler, Herbert Baisch
  • Patent number: 4916970
    Abstract: A stem assembly for securing the handlebars of a bicycle to the frame of the bicycle, which stem comprises a barrel and a head, the head being formed from a sheet metal stamping comprising a neck section and a handlebar clamping section. The neck section of the head is of generally annular cross-sectional configuration and is characterized by a longitudinal seam extending for the length of the neck. The seam of the neck section of the head is welded along the seam so as to impart to the stem resistance to torsional failure of the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Assignee: Wald Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: David K. McMurtrey
  • Patent number: 4915535
    Abstract: An assembly comprising a member, having a recess, connected by a connector to a component having an outwardly presented surface part, the connector comprising at least one pair of elements pivotally joined together by a pivotal joint means, each element having a female part and a male part which co-operate, respectively, to provide the connector with a female portion in which said surface part of the component is received and a male portion which is engaged in the recess of the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Inventor: Charles A. Willetts
  • Patent number: 4900180
    Abstract: A structure for connecting a branch pipe in a high-pressure fuel manifold employs a nut to fasten the branch pipe to a main pipe, the nut having threaded surfaces which are simultaneously brought into thread engagement with a collar member fitted on the branch pipe at the neck portion contiguous with the top joint portion thereof which is brought into contact with the main pipe and with a coupling member which is secured to the main pipe in such a manner as to surround the peripheral wall thereof. Therefore, it becomes unnecessary to conduct a welding operation which has heretofore been needed to connect the joint portion of the branch pipe to the main pipe. The connecting structure satisfactorily endures ultra-high fluid pressure even under vibrations. In addition, there is no fear of fuel leaking out through the joint nor risk of the branch pipe coming off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1990
    Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Takikawa
  • Patent number: 4895473
    Abstract: A vertical leg (14) is received through a ring (16). An over-center latch mechanism is mounted inside a cavity (6) in a side rail (2). The end surface (2a) of the rail (2) has a recess (4). A shaft (24) has one end (26) secured to the ring (16) and extends from the ring (16) through an opening (8) in the rail (2) which communicates the recess (4) and the cavity (6). The inner end (28) of the shaft (24) is engaged by a lever (32) of the latch mechanism. Pivoting of the lever (32) pulls the ring (16) into the recess (4) and the leg (14) into contact with the end surface (2a) of the rail (2) above and below the recess (4). There is no contact between the ring (16) and any portion of the rail (2) to allow automatic adjustment for surface irregularities of the rail (2) and leg (14) and ensure firm contact between the leg (14) and rail (2). Preferably, the end (26) of the shaft (24) is pivotable relative to the ring (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Inventor: Donald C. Hennick
  • Patent number: 4854548
    Abstract: A rail assembly is provided which includes a rail support bracket. The rail support bracket is an extruded member and has a rail receiving opening and a pair of legs. Each of the legs has a plurality of parallel locking wedge ridges transverse to the legs. The legs are capable of being received in a rail structure having locking wedge ridges at right angles to and positioned for engagement with the plurality of parallel, longitudinally extending, inwardly directed wedge shaped locking ridges. The assembly can also include first rail member and a second rail member, each having one end received in the rail receiving opening, and a wedge locking device. The wedge locking device has a first region force fit between an end of the first rail member and the bracket rail receiving opening and a second region force fit between one end of the second rail member and the bracket rail receiving opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Inventor: Glenn J. Wylie
  • Patent number: 4779885
    Abstract: An improved pivot joint assembly is provided for use in the frame of a folding wheelchair or the like, wherein the pivot assembly provides a simple yet sturdy pivot interconnection between tubular frame members. The pivot joint assembly comprises a bearing of plastic or the like anchored within an open end of a first tubular frame member and defining an outwardly presented concave bearing seat, preferably of semi-cylindrical shape, for engaging the exterior of a second tubular frame member at a selected position intermediate the length of the second frame member. A strap bracket of generally U-shaped configuration is wrapped about the second frame member and secured by a lock pin or the like to the first frame member and to the bearing to retain the frame members in generally T-shaped relation with the first frame member pivotal about a central axis of the second frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1988
    Assignee: Everest & Jennings, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene Zinn
  • Patent number: 4774792
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus comprises an outfit of frames of tubular steel, display boards, and securing clips. Some of the clips are frame-to-frame clips, which have symmetrical snap-on C-shaped profiles. Others of the clips are frame-to-board clips, which have one snap-on profile, and one channel shaped profile to grip the board. Still others of the clips are frame to flat surface clips which have one snap on profile, and one flat surface. The resulting modular exhibition display panels are versatile as to their design, and readily adjustable if it should turn out that some changes are needed. The panels are markedly light in weight yet can be strong enough to survive being erected, dismantled, transported, and rebuilt many times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Ballance Design Limited
    Inventor: Peter Ballance
  • Patent number: 4737047
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a joining structure for use in connecting pipes or tubes such as those which form a bicycle frame. The structure comprises a joining cylinder and a cylindrical part secured to the joining cylinder, the joining cylinder having an opening therein adapted to receive a pipe. A wall having a through hole is formed inside the opening of the joining cylinder, and an internal thread is formed in the internal periphery of the pipe. A core having on its external periphery an external thread which corresponds to the thread of the pipe is threaded into the pipe. The core has a threaded hole aligned with the through hole, and a bolt is provided for joining the wall and the core in such a manner that said bolt engages the wall and the core for joining the cylinder with the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: H. Tano & Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koji Oshita
  • Patent number: 4718789
    Abstract: A first tube intersecting a second tube is joined to the second tube by a clamp around the second tube having limbs projecting into the first tube. A screw thread member cooperates with the limbs and has an end portion seated against a first inner surface of the first tube to force one of the limbs against that inner surface of the first tube opposite the first inner surface while moving the other limb away from the first inner surface of the first tube to tighten the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Inventor: Dirk J. G. Kuenen
  • Patent number: 4636104
    Abstract: Hollow structural sections of a circular or polygonal cross section are fixed to assembly elements having a circular or polygonal cross section by means of an end piece fitted into the end of a structural section, a holding cable surrounding an assembly element and a device for tensioning the cable which may be a winding shaft to which one end of the cable is fixed and which may move in a cavity of the end piece between a cable winding position and a position in which the shaft is locked in the cavity. In another embodiment, it is the head of the end piece which is movable with respect to the body of the end piece and which tensions a cable loop of fixed length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1987
    Assignee: NIVO S.A.
    Inventor: Didier Dinh
  • Patent number: 4610562
    Abstract: A clip for securing or holding a frame member to a perimeter member of a suspended ceiling system characterized by a one-piece member having a flap for engaging a back side of the perimeter member, and a transverse portion for connecting an engaging flange to the flap. The engaging portion includes opposed tabs bent angularly inward toward the flap and which tabs are placed on either side of the frame member so that the frame member is secured to the perimeter member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Assignee: Chicago Metallic Corporation
    Inventor: James J. Dunn
  • Patent number: 4607422
    Abstract: A bonnet is locked to the body of a valve into which the bonnet screws by a sheet metal bonnet lock which includes a portion that will mate with facets on the bonnet or with the sides of the valve body. Another portion of the bonnet lock is then deformed to mate with the other of the bonnet facets or valve body sides. The portion of the bonnet lock that mates with the facets on the bonnet circumscribes the bonnet such that one portion of the bonnet lock is fixed to the bonnet and the other portion is fixed to the valve body following deformation of the bonnet lock to prevent the bonnet from turning relative to the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1986
    Inventor: John P. Scaramucci
  • Patent number: 4601483
    Abstract: A single bolt, welded bicycle stem assembly for securing the handlebars to the front fork of a bicycle frame. The stem assembly includes a tubular barrel formed with a top end and side wall, and a sheet metal head section. The head section is formed with a cup-shaped top portion and a bottom portion which are bent in a U-shape so that the top portion overlies the bottom portion to form an annular sleeve therebetween adapted to receive and clamp the bicycle handlebars. The bottom portion is formed with spaced, parallel side sections having outwardly extending edges. The head section is adapted to engage the tubular barrel so that its top portion overlies the top end of the barrel and the outwardly extending edges of the bottom portion abut the side wall of the barrel. The head section is connected to a tubular barrel by vertical welds between the outwardly extending edges of the spaced side sections of the bottom portion of the head section and the side wall of the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Inventor: David K. McMurtrey
  • Patent number: 4599010
    Abstract: An anchoring device in the form of a connection (10) has an axial bore (12) formed by two semi-circular elements (14,16) having four sills (26) which form right angle projections. Bores (30) are formed in the sills (26) for receiving bolts (36) having transverse pins (34) in a pivotal relationship. The sills (26) have inclined surfaces (38) which in use form a seat for the nut of the bolt (36) and to orientate the bolt at an angle in the passage (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1986
    Assignee: Tu-Fit (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventor: Warwick P. Hocking