Composite Bushing With Elastomeric Component Patents (Class 403/228)
  • Patent number: 11976665
    Abstract: A compressor according to an embodiment includes: a rotational shaft provided with a compressor impeller on one end side; a rolling bearing device for rotatably supporting the rotational shaft; and a housing for housing the rolling bearing device. The rolling bearing device includes: an inner ring mounted on the rotational shaft; an outer ring supported by the housing with application of a load from the housing in an axial direction of the rotational shaft; a rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring; an elastic member disposed on an outer circumferential side of the outer ring so as to come into contact with the housing; and a sliding portion disposed on one end side of the outer ring in the axial direction so as to come into contact with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES ENGINE & TURBOCHARGER LTD.
    Inventors: Takuya Arakawa, Naomichi Shibata
  • Patent number: 11964565
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a trunnion mount for mounting an engine, in particular a combustion engine, to a chassis, comprising a support element rigidly connected and/or connectable to the engine having a ring portion with an outer bearing surface, which may be arranged concentrically around the crankshaft; a female support having an inner bearing surface for surrounding the bearing surface of the support element, the female support forming the link between the chassis and the engine; and a rubber bearing arranged between the inner bearing surface of the female support and the outer bearing surface of the support element. In one or more examples, the trunnion mount includes a rubber bearing that is directly vulcanized on at least one of the bearing surfaces and/or wherein the ring portion is formed as a separate element from a mounting portion of the support element and connectable thereto via axial screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: LIEBHERR-COMPONENTS COLMAR SAS
    Inventors: Thierry Bindner, Benjamin Potier, Anthony Leib, Sebastien Ranucci
  • Patent number: 11846056
    Abstract: A sewing machine comprising a sewing machine body, a needle bar, and a handlebar vibration dampener is disclosed. The sewing machine body includes a sewing machine head and a handlebar assembly coupled to the sewing machine head. The needle bar is attached to the sewing machine head and configured to linearly reciprocate relative to the sewing machine head along a needle bar axis. The handlebar vibration dampener is located between the handlebar assembly and the sewing machine head to reduce vibrations transmitted by the sewing machine head to the handlebar assembly during use of the sewing machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: Gracewood Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Cody Wayment
  • Patent number: 11815149
    Abstract: An elastomeric bushing comprises an inner sleeve, an elastomeric bumper disposed around and directly engaging the inner sleeve, and an outer sleeve disposed around the inner sleeve and the elastomeric bumper. The outer sleeve is spaced apart from the inner sleeve and directly engages the elastomeric bumper. The inner sleeve includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion axially spaced apart from one another. The outer sleeve includes a radially inwardly extending indentation axially positioned between the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The indentation traps a first portion of the elastomeric bumper between the first protrusion and a first surface of the indentation and also traps a second portion of the elastomeric bumper between the second protrusion and a second surface of the indentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: The Pullman Company
    Inventor: Michael Bixler
  • Patent number: 11597415
    Abstract: A ballistic protection arrangement for vehicles, in particular for rail vehicles chassis, with at least one first wheelset which has a first wheel, a second wheel and a wheelset shaft, wherein in order to provide advantageous construction conditions, a shell includes at least one first material layer, which includes a first fibre material, arranged around the wheelset shaft such that the wheelset shaft is advantageously protected from damage, for example, due to stone impacts at particularly high travelling speeds and at particularly low temperatures, where the first fibre material of the first material layer brings about high absorption of energy with the protection arrangement while, at the same time, having a low mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: SIEMENS MOBILITY AUSTRIA GMBH
    Inventors: Laszlo Boronkai, Caroline Cassignol
  • Patent number: 11479274
    Abstract: A method for improving fatigue resistance performance of a locomotive rubber-metal pad and the locomotive rubber-metal pad improve the fatigue resistance performance of the rubber-metal pad and prevent rubber and metal from being torn during running by changing a structure of the rubber and the metal of the rubber-metal pad and adjusting a shape and position relationship between the rubber and the metal. The shape and position relationship between the rubber and the metal is adjusted by adjusting thickness of a rubber layer between the rubber and the metal of the rubber-metal pad so that the rubber layer has variable thickness. A rubber layer diameter of each layer is a variable diameter by adjusting a size of the rubber layer diameter between the rubber and the metal of the rubber-metal pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Zhuzhou Times New Material Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wansheng Feng, Ke Yuan, Qingmei Liu, Bin Zhao
  • Patent number: 10920844
    Abstract: A bushing assembly for use in a vehicle suspension system includes an outer sleeve, with an elastomeric element at least partially positioned within the outer sleeve. An inner sleeve is at least partially positioned within the elastomeric element, while a bar pin having a central section is at least partially positioned within the inner sleeve. A retaining ring is positioned at or adjacent to a first end of the central section of the bar pin and at least partially within the outer sleeve. The retaining ring is positioned between the inner sleeve and at least one radially enlarged section at the first end of the central section of the bar pin and/or at least one radially inwardly directed section at a first end of the outer sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Randy J. Zimmerman, Quang C. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10837512
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a vibration isolation apparatus includes: molding elastic parts of an elastic body; compressing in which the elastic parts are pressed against positions in which the elastic parts are provided to an inner member so that the elastic parts are compressed to have a size equivalent to a size in which the elastic parts fit between the inner member and an outer cylinder; press-fitting the inner member and the elastic parts integrally into the outer cylinder while the elastic parts are kept compressed; and fastening the elastic parts to the inner member and the outer cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: KURASHIKI KAKO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuji Itano, Mineyuki Ohara
  • Patent number: 9664309
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that mounts both a pump and either an inlet hose or an outlet hose for the pump to vehicle support structure. The pump has a pump housing with a pump inlet and a pump outlet. An inlet hose is attached to the pump inlet, and an outlet hose is attached to the pump outlet. The apparatus includes a compliant pump hose mount that has a hose attachment portion with a hose opening sized so that one of the inlet hose and the outlet hose is supportable by the pump hose mount at the hose opening. The pump hose mount also has a mount portion mountable to the vehicle support structure. The pump is thereby mounted to the vehicle support structure by the pump hose mount so that noise and vibration of the pump are mitigated by the pump hose mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Steven A. Tervo, John M. Albert, Keith W. Weishuhn, Mark W. Purdy
  • Patent number: 9400017
    Abstract: A bushing arrangement for centring two shaft portions to be connected, having at least one outer bushing, and at least one inner bushing arranged radially inwards of the at least one outer bushing, the at least one outer bushing and the at least one inner bushing being connected via at least one elastomer body, on which at least one sealing lip is formed. At least one encircling recess is formed in the elastomer body which extends from one axial end of the bushing arrangement in such a manner into the elastomer body that the at least one recess extends radially around the at least one sealing lip and around at least a portion of the axial extent of the inner bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: SUEDDEUTSCHE GELENKSCHEIBENFABRIK GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Petrik, Josef Stubenrauch, Bernd Scheper, Franz Kobus
  • Patent number: 9353861
    Abstract: A coupling structure for a piston used in a fluid-pressure cylinder. The piston in the fluid-pressure cylinder includes a piston hole that runs through a central part of the piston in an axial direction thereof. One end of a piston rod and a coupling body coupled to the one end are inserted into the piston hole. The coupling body includes: a main part that contacts the one end of the piston rod; and an angled part formed around the main part and inclined at a prescribed angle with respect thereto. When the coupling body is subjected to pressure inside the piston hole, the diameter of the coupling body increases and a pointed edge of the angled part engages with an inner surface of the piston hole such that the coupling body couples the piston and the piston rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Koichiro Ishibashi, Koji Hara, Toshio Sato
  • Patent number: 9303670
    Abstract: A device and method for the protection of a first member and second member from corrosion by utilizing a connector that bonds the members without allowing direct contact of the members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Zephyros, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry E. Richardson, Jeffery Thomas Shantz, Alex Mangiapane
  • Patent number: 9016971
    Abstract: An elastic suspension hinge for an automobile, to be fastened to a fastening portion of a structure of the automobile via a clamping mechanism including a fastening element, the hinge being of type that includes an inner sleeve. At least one of the ends of the inner sleeve is configured to engage by conical fitting with the free end of a bushing rigidly connected to the fastening portion of the structure and having a longitudinal passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventors: Vincent Masi, Frederic Thomas, Yann Verdier
  • Patent number: 8523476
    Abstract: A positioning device includes first, second and third elements. The first element includes a cross-linked thermoplastic and the second element is non-circular and configured adjacent a first side of the first element, and configured for relative rotation with the first element about an axis. The third element is configured adjacent a second side of the first element. The first, second and third elements are configured such that a first compressive strain amount is induced on the first element while there is no relative rotation between the first and second elements and a second compressive strain amount is induced on the first element while there is relative rotation between the first element and the second element. The second compressive strain amount is at least 3 times higher than the first compressive strain amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Reell Precision Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Philip Billings
  • Patent number: 8317429
    Abstract: Connectors having redundant fasteners for interconnecting adjacent structures are disclosed. Some connectors have first and second bearing bodies and a member disposed between the bearing bodies. A first fastener is held in tension and extends through the bearing bodies and the member. The tension in the first fastener urges the bearing bodies against each other in compression. A second fastener held in loose engagement relative to the bearing bodies and the member extends through the bearing bodies. On release of the tension in the first fastener, such as by failure of the first fastener, the second fastener is placed in tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventors: Allen Danskine, David H. Rytand
  • Patent number: 7914023
    Abstract: A steering mechanism includes a relay rod and an idler arm operatively attached to a first end thereof. A pitman arm includes a stud and is operatively attached to a second end of the relay rod. A bushing is configured to allow displacement of the pitman arm relative to the relay rod. The bushing includes an outer can, an inner metal member, and a bushing disposed therebetween. The inner metal member has a tapered receptacle configured to mate with a tapered portion of the stud. The resilient member may include voids, which may be oriented generally perpendicular to a turning direction and may be tapered from the base to the opening. The inner metal member may have a generally-cylindrical portion and substantially-opposing outer flats interrupting the same. The outer flats are spaced by a distance smaller than the cylinder diameter and may be substantially parallel to the turning direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Miroslaw Zaloga, Christopher J. Mielke, George E. Doerr, Christopher N. Bither, Marco E. Rodriguez, Eric B. Hoyer
  • Patent number: 7748923
    Abstract: An element is to be mounted on a shaft of a non-positive displacement machine and forms a gap for limited passage of a flowing medium. A bush-like part for mounting on a shaft of the machine has an outer periphery provided with a recess for accommodating a ring. During operation of the machine, the ring, which is partially surrounded on its faces by circular ring-shaped walls of the recess, forms an axial gap with the circular, ring-shaped walls of the recess and a radial gap with the bottom of the recess. The ring is held by frictional contact with a rigid wall which surrounds it. To reduce wear on rings made of soft, flowable material, a second recess is formed in the rigid wall and surrounds the faces of the ring that project from the walls of the bush-like part. One of the lateral bounds of the second recess is formed by a tubular part detachably joined to the rigid wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: KSB Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Stephan Bross, Ruediger Koepp
  • Patent number: 7465120
    Abstract: A mechanical wedge mechanism comprising base member, output member, and movable wedge member in which frictional connections between mutually movable mechanical members are replaced with shear deformations in elastomeric shims connecting respective surfaces of the members, thus effectively reducing frictional losses in the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Evgeny I. Rivin
  • Patent number: 7367744
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar system for an automotive vehicle includes a stabilizer bar having a circular cross section and a rigid sleeve applied to a section of the outer circumference of the stabilizer bar. The sleeve has a number of circumferentially extending grooves and lands which mate with corresponding grooves and lands formed in an inner cylindrical surface of an elastomeric bushing which is overlaid upon the sleeve. The elastomeric bushing and sleeve may be mated such that relative rotation is allowed at the interface of the bushing and sleeve. Alternatively, the bushing and sleeve may be locked so that no relative rotation may occur at the interface of the bushing and sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Juergen Funke
  • Patent number: 7146652
    Abstract: The present invention provides a face guard connector assembly for a sports helmet, such as a football, hockey or lacrosse helmet. The face guard includes a plurality of elongated bar members that intersect to define a grid. The connector assembly removably connects the face guard to the helmet shell. The connector assembly includes a bracket having at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the face guard. The connector assembly further includes a shock absorber assembly that distributes an impact force at the face guard to the shell in an omni-directional manner. The shock absorber assembly includes an elastomeric grommet, a bushing, and a nut, each have an opening. When aligned, the openings collectively define a passageway configured to receive a fastener that secures the connector assembly to the sports helmet. The helmet shell has opposed side portions with each side portion having a mounting aperture that receives an extent of the shock absorber assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Riddell, Inc.
    Inventors: Thad M. Ide, Nelson Kraemer, Ralph J. Infusino
  • Patent number: 6860015
    Abstract: A method is provided for producing an elastomeric conical flap bearing assembly for rotary aircraft including an inboard bearing element and outboard bearing element disposed within an outer housing. The outer housing has an outer surface configured with a plurality of radially extending flange elements. The outer housing has an inner surface configured to receive tapered conical bearing elements. A tapered conical elastomeric inboard bearing element is inserted into its outer housing and is bonded to the inner surface. A tapered conical elastomeric outboard bearing element is inserted into the outer housing, wherein the conical tapers of the respective bearing elements are directed in opposing directions. The bearing elements are press-fit together and the outer surface of the outboard bearing is bonded to the inner surface of the outer housing forming a bearing assembly. Simultaneously, an axial pre-load is applied to the bearing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Neal M. Muylaert
  • Patent number: 6783297
    Abstract: A projecting portion 52 which becomes convex in radial direction is formed in a rubber elastic body 5 for connecting together an inner cylindrical body 3 mounted to a shaft portion 21a of a lower shift lever member 21 by external interfit and an outer cylindrical body 4 mounted to a cylindrical portion 22a of an upper shift lever member 22 by internal interfit. Formed in an inner peripheral surface of the outer cylindrical body 4 is a recessed portion 42 which becomes concave with clearances C1 and C2 of respective given amounts left between the recessed portion 42 and the projecting portion 52. This makes it possible to manufacture a shift lever bush 1 having a two-stage spring characteristic at low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignees: Kurashiki Kako Co., Ltd., Mannoh Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Osamu Hashimoto, Yoshihito Hiraiwa, Kenji Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 6582148
    Abstract: The invention relates to an elastic shaft coupling having at least one torsion element (1) which comprises at least one elastomer body (5) serving as a transmission element. Axial metallic connecting flanges (2) are mounted in a fixed manner, preferably by vulcanization, on the input and output sides of the elastomer body. In order to increase the transmittable power density and to improve the rubber-metal connection in the edge areas of the connecting flanges (2), the invention provides that the connecting flanges (2) axially project outward with regard to the elastomer body (5) from the plane of the connecting flange while forming an arch at least on the radially extending edges (2a, 3a) of the connecting flanges between the elastomer body (5) and the connecting flanges (2), the edges being formed on the outer edges of connecting flange segments (2) and/or on the inner edges of passages (3) in the connecting flange (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Hackforth GmbH
    Inventors: Jürgen Walter, Ulrich Falz
  • Patent number: 6471436
    Abstract: A drive connector for elastomerically coupling a drive shaft to a driven shaft. An elastomeric coupling includes openings on opposite ends that are generally “D”-shaped forming an interference fit with correspondingly shaped ends of the drive shaft and the driven shaft. A web extends transversely within the interior of the elastomeric coupling, limiting the distance that the drive shaft and driven shaft are inserted within the openings of the coupling. The coupling includes a rib that runs longitudinally along its outer length. A sleeve having a groove corresponding in size and shape to the rib is slipped over the coupling and is connected to the driven shaft. The sleeve includes a rigid interior element that is overmolded with an elastomeric material. A cam bearing is fitted over a cam surface on the sleeve and provides a force in one direction, urging a plunger to displace an elastomeric membrane in a pumping cassette, forcing medicinal fluid to flow through the pumping cassette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: John D. Gjata, Michael W. Lawless, Andrew J. Scherer, Peter A. Soberon, Stephanie R. Squarcia
  • Patent number: 6381935
    Abstract: A cutting machine comprising a chassis connected to a motor vehicle, a cutting device comprising cutting members, a connecting device connecting the cutting device to the chassis in such a way as to allow the cutting device to be brought into a work position and into a transport position and comprising at least two connecting rods each one connected to the cutting device and to the chassis by means of a respective connection, one of the connections being a connection of the ball-joint type. The cutting machine is characterized in that at least one of the connections connecting a connecting rod to the cutting device or to the chassis comprises an elastic element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Kuhn S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Wattron, Martin Walch
  • Patent number: 6234702
    Abstract: A swivel coupling for coupling together two vehicles, in particular two rail vehicles. The swivel coupling rests on a shared bogie between the two vehicles and has a rotation function and a shock-absorbing function. Each of these functions is performed by distinct elements of the swivel coupling structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: GEC Alsthom Transport SA
    Inventors: Sylvie Jeunehomme, Jean-Claude Gaiguant
  • Patent number: 6123481
    Abstract: An elastic shaft joint of the present invention comprises an elastic member, a slide sleeve and a stopper. The elastic member is composed of an elastic material such as rubber, elastomer etc and held on an inner peripheral surface of a cylindrical portion fixedly provided on the cylindrical member. The slide sleeve is made using a low-friction material such as a synthetic resin, an oil-impregnated metal etc, held on an inner peripheral surface of the elastic member and elastically pressed against an outer peripheral surface of the shaft by an elasticity of the elastic member. The stopper is provided between the shaft and the cylindrical member, permits the shaft and the cylindrical member to slightly displace in the axial and rotating directions, and hinders the displacement in the rotating direction beyond a predetermined angle enough to damage the elastic member and the slide sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoji Oka, Sakae Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6032349
    Abstract: An alignment coupling and method of joining an extensible member of a linear actuator to an actuated member for moving a load utilize an enlarged coupler (A) carried by the extensible member within a receptacle in the actuated member formed by a transverse surface (B) and a longitudinal surface (C). A floating alignment is provided by a compressible resilient retaining member (D) permitting limited axial and radial adjustment of the extensible member. The receptacle has an open passageway for insertion of the coupler to facilitate assembly of the components thus providing a foreshortened alignment coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Compact Air Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Valerie J. Wagner, Marvin Raymond Hart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5807010
    Abstract: An end link is provided for a stabilizer bar of a vehicle suspension system. The end link includes a rod having pairs of grommets generally at each end thereof. Each grommet includes a bushing and washer which are interengaged and rotatable with respect to each other. Each grommet further includes a central passageway that which the rod is disposed within and permits pivotal movement of the rod only substantially in a single plane relative to the grommets and permits substantially universal pivotal movement of the rod around the center of the grommets. The end link can also include a like rod having a pair of universal ball joint structures generally at each end thereof. Each structure includes a universal ball which is integrally formed with a spacer, a bushing and a washer. The bushing is rotatable with respect to the washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Eric G. Parker, Corey M. Rivard
  • Patent number: 5807009
    Abstract: A mechanical coupling comprises an input member, an output member a chamber associated therewith, within the chamber a charge of cured silicone composition in crumb form and a spring biased piston for compressing the charge to an extent sufficient to permit the compressed silicone to convey rotational motion from the input member to the output member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Dow Corning S. A.
    Inventors: Robert John Michael, Rene Louis Mathieu Andre Paquet
  • Patent number: 5722786
    Abstract: A universal joint for coupling a pair of members with a connecting rigid link rockable about two sets of pivot axes. Each of the two members has a corresponding bolt hole through which extend respective stepped bolts defining two pivotal axes about which the link can pivot and rock. The link has opposite end portions each defining a loop through which extends a corresponding stepped bolt connecting a respective end of the link to a corresponding one of the two members the link couples. Each coupling bolt has a length with a major diameter extending axially through a respective coupled member and the corresponding loop of an end portion of the link to which it is coupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Chuouhatsujou Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Kono, Masami Wakita
  • Patent number: 5595452
    Abstract: A link assembly connectable to a member and adapted for rotary motion and conical deflection relative to the connectable member generally consisting of an elongated rigid member having an opening therethrough for receiving said connectable member therein. A bushing disposed in said connectable member opening, the bushing being formed of a thermoplastic polyurethane material and having an opening therethrough providing an interior, cylindrical wall therein. The interior cylindrical wall having a plurality of dimples therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: U.S. Farathane Corporation
    Inventors: Clinton W. Hill, Robert M. Crandall
  • Patent number: 5565251
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar bushing adapted to receive a metal stabilizer bar and to be secured within a mounting assembly that is attached to a vehicle frame for cooperatively resisting excessive sway when a vehicle is turning and a method of manufacture. The stabilizer bar bushing includes an elastomeric member and a low coefficient of friction film layer. The elastomeric member has an outer diameter, an inner diameter defining a bore and a slot extending the longitudinal length of the elastomeric member from the outer diameter to the inner diameter. The low coefficient of friction film layer is adhered to the inner diameter and the slot to facilitate ease of insertion of the stabilizer bar within the bore and reduce frictional engagement of the elastomeric member with the stabilizer bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: BTR Antivibration Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Solomon H. Tang, Richard D. Hein, James A. Roth
  • Patent number: 5472289
    Abstract: An advertising display mounting device is provided for attaching promotional displays, dispensers, or other objects to a price channel mounted on the edge of a grocery or other retail store shelf. This mounting device uses clips which are adapted to mate with the price channel of the shelf. The clips are forced into a mated relation with the price channel by a locking slide. The invention also provides for a means by which to attach an advertising display to the advertising display mounting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: ActMedia, Inc.
    Inventors: George Kringel, Robert S. Frichette, James E. Richardson
  • Patent number: 5442993
    Abstract: A self-aligning piston assembly has a piston member having a sidewall for slidable displacement within a bore, the piston member having an inner curved surface, the piston assembly having an inner race member having means to attach to a connecting member, the inner race member having a curved surface complimentary to the inner curved surface and, an elastomer member disposed therebetween substantially in the form of a sphere to provide a spherical type mounting of the piston to the connecting member. Utilizing a spherical type mounting, axial rigidity is maintained yet any side loading which acts through the connecting member or manufacturing tolerances are absorbed through the spherical elastomer to prevent misalignment or cocking of the piston within the bore during stroking. Utilizing the invention, excessive wear and fluid leakage by the piston is avoided since misalignment is absorbed by the elastomer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Baliotti, II, Kenneth L. Lauck
  • Patent number: 5344250
    Abstract: An advertising display mounting device is provided for attaching promotional displays, dispensers, or other objects to a price channel mounted on the edge of a grocery or other retail store shelf. The advertising display mounting device has first and second clips adapted to mate with the price channel of a grocery or other retail store shelf. The clips are forced into mated relation with the price channel by a locking slide. First clip means is provided having a plurality of teeth. Second clip means has a slot formed therein for accepting first clip means so that first and second clips are oriented parallel to each other and to the price channel. A channel formed in second clip means accepts a locking slide, also having one or more teeth for cooperating with the corresponding teeth on first clip means. As locking slide is forced into the channel, first and second teeth mesh and move the first clip relative to the second clip to lock the mounting device in the price channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: ActMedia, Inc.
    Inventors: George Kringel, Robert S. Frichette, James E. Richardson
  • Patent number: 5335893
    Abstract: A vibration dampening and thermal isolating 360.degree. adjustable bracket to connect components and accommodate for tolerance buildups in various manufacturing installations. The bracket comprises a bracket plate with a notched circular cutout therein, a vibration dampening and thermal isolating rubber grommet press fitted into the notched circular cutout, a slotted-insert press fitted into the central hole of the grommet, a support plate, and connecting means. The slotted-insert that has a slot through the insert's the longitudinal axes may be rotated through 360.degree. to accommodate for different relative positions of the connecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Fred W. Opp
  • Patent number: 5318373
    Abstract: A ball joint for chassis parts in motor vehicles is described, in which a hinge pin 1 with a spherical part 2 is mounted in a housing 3 by a bearing box 4. The hinge pin is led through an opening 6 out of the housing 3. The housing 3 is sealed by a lid 7, on the opposite side. In this case, the housing is placed in a rigid external bushing 10 with an elastomer sleeve 9 surrounding the housing. Radial surfaces on the housing 3, as well as on the external bushing 10, limit the axial movement of the housing 3 with respect to the external bushing. The radial surfaces of the housing 3 are formed by the two flat sides of a collecting plate 15, which can be firmly connected to the housing 3 first in the assembly of the joint. The collecting plate 15 engages with an axial moving space between arranged radial surfaces of the external bushing 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Lemforder Metallwaren AG
    Inventors: Reinhard Buhl, Hans Dubielzig, Klaus Kramer, Reinhard Richter
  • Patent number: 5295755
    Abstract: A shock mount is used for mounting a first member of a piece of furniture to a second member thereof. The shock mount includes an elastic portion and a metal portion secured to the elastic portion. The metal portion has an exposed surface of a shape which conforms to the first furniture member. The elastic portion is secured to the second furniture member, the exposed surface of the metal portion is adhesively secured to the first furniture member, and the elastic portion absorbs various loads imparted by the first and second furniture members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard DeHaan, III, David M. Boruta, George B. Byma
  • 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: 5218880
    Abstract: A joint is provided between a transmission operating member of a transmission and a control rod of a transmission gear control mechanism. The joint includes rigid stopper rings for rigidly stopping deformations of resilient deformable members in predetermined directions and thereby rigidly stopping movement of outer sleeves of an outer sleeve unit in the directions crossing joint pins at right angles. The stopper rings are fittingly interposed between the outer sleeves and channel-like end portions of the transmission operating member such that the transmission operating member and control rod are relatively less movable in the direction crossing their axial directions at right angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaki Mizutani
  • Patent number: 5173000
    Abstract: A coupling 1, 50, 100 for joining adjacent frame members 2, 3 of a fish breeding enclosure 5 comprises a first mounting means 10, 52, 105, 106 for mounting to one frame member 2, a second mounting means 11, 53, 105, 106 for mounting to another frame member 3 and a flexible body 12, 51, 101 of elastomeric material between the first and second mounting means 10, 11, 52, 53, 105, 106. The coupling 1, 50, 100 constrains relative rotational and translational movement between the frame members 2, 3 in use to a predetermined level which is determined by the material of the flexible body 12, 51, 101 and/or by mechanical limit stops 62, 63. A non flexible connection such as a rod 35 having flanges 36, 37 or a chain 90, 110 provides a mechanical connection between the mounting means 10, 11, 52, 53, 105, 106 in the event of failure of the flexible body 12, 51, 101.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Inventor: Terence P. Nolan
  • Patent number: 5076725
    Abstract: Disclosed is a strut mount comprising an inner cylinder, an outer cylinder disposed coaxial with the inner cylinder, an intermediate cylinder coaxially disposed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder, a resilient member interposed between the intermediate cylinder and the outer cylinder, a sliding member interposed, between the inner cylinder and the intermediate cylinder a seal member interposed between an inner peripheral surface of one end of the intermediate cylinder and an outer peripheral surface near one end of the inner cylinder, and a lid member for closing the other end of the intermediate cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroaki Nakaura
  • Patent number: 5069431
    Abstract: A bush assembly includes an inner cylindrical member for supporting an elongated member, a rigid sleeve slideably fixed to the outer surface of the inner cylindrical member via a slipping member, and an outer cylindrical member fixed to the outer surface of the rigid sleeve via an elastic member. The rigid sleeve has a greater diameter portion at one end thereof so that an annular space is formed between the greater diameter portion and one end of the inner cylindrical member. The bush assembly further includes a sealing member which is disposed in the annular space for preventing muddy water or the like from getting into the interfaces between the slipping member and the inner cylindrical member and between the slipping member and the rigid sleeve. The sealing member includes an outer portion fixed to the rigid sleeve, an inner portion being brought into contact with the inner cylindrical member, and an intermediate portion arranged therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Company, Limited
    Inventors: Toshihiko Kakimoto, Takuya Murakami
  • Patent number: 5062654
    Abstract: A bush assembly includes an inner cylindrical member for supporting an elongated member, a rigid sleeve slidably fixed to the outer surface of the inner cylindrical member via a slipping member, and an outer cylindrical member fixed to the outer surface of the rigid sleeve via an elastic member. The rigid sleeve has a greater diameter portion at one end thereof so that an annular space is formed between the greater diameter portion and one end of the inner cylindrical member. The bush assembly further includes a sealing member which is disposed in the annular space for preventing muddy water or the like from getting into the interfaces between the slipping member and the inner cylindrical member and between the slipping member and the rigid sleeve. The elastic member has a radially extending projection for interrupting muddy water or the like getting into the interface between the outer cylindrical member and a member which is to be connected another member via the bush assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Company, Limited
    Inventors: Toshihiko Kakimoto, Takuya Murakami
  • Patent number: 5033722
    Abstract: Resilient mount assemblies provide absorption of induced loads while permitting some degree of relative rotation between the elements. It is desirable to have resilient mount assemblies which can withstand heavy operating loads while having high angular rotation. In this arrangement, a resilient mount assembly is provided having a segmented assembly interconnecting a first member having a spherical outer surface with a second member having a transverse bore therein. The segmented assembly includes first and second semi-circular half shells with first, second, third, and fourth semi-circular elastomeric layers disposed on respective first and second sides thereof. The first and second semi-circular half shells and their respective first, second, third, and fourth semi-circular elastomeric layers are disposed in intimate contact with the spherical outer surface of the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan G. Lammers
  • Patent number: 5031545
    Abstract: A resilient swivel joint for railway cars and the like. The joint has a first connector and a second connector attached to one another by a resilient member. The joint includes a stop that rotates with the second connector to facilitate relative rotational movement between the first and second connectors and limit relative linear movement between the first and second connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Assignee: Caoutchouc Manufacture et Plastiques, S.A.
    Inventor: Jacques Bourgeot
  • Patent number: 5016903
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes an arm member whose outer end is connected to a wheel and whose inner end is connected to the vehicle body by way of front and rear rubber bushings at positions spaced from each other in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body so that the arm member can vertically rotate relative to the vehicle body. Each of the front and rear rubber bushings has an outer tubular member which is substantially cylindrical and extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body, an inner tubular member which is received in the outer tubular member substantially coaxially therewith, and a rubber member interposed between the inner and outer tubular member. One of the inner and outer tubular members is connected to the vehicle body and the other is connected to the suspension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Takao Kijima, Haruyuki Taniguchi, Makoto Arai, Nobuyuki Sugitani
  • Patent number: 4984928
    Abstract: Resilient joint with differentiated radial rigidity, of the type comprising a resilient material block (3) bonded between two tubular frames (1, 2) which are coaxial at rest, and which may be caused to pivot with respect to each other about their axis, said resilient material block (3) being then subjected to a shearing action under twisting, this block further including, along its periphery, variations of section so as to have unequal rigidity under compression in at least two different radial directions, characterized in that said variations of section are progressive, thus resulting in a thickness of resilient material (3)--measured in directions parallel to said axis--which is progressively variable between ridges (12) and hollows (13), without interruption of continuity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Assignee: Hutchinson
    Inventor: Michel Domer
  • Patent number: 4981308
    Abstract: A rear axle suspension for a motor vehicle with a wheel guide member retained directly at the wheel carrier which includes a first wheel-outer guide arm and a second wheel-inner guide arm. Both guide arms are pivotally connected at the vehicle body by way of elastic joints, whereby one joint of the first guide arm is constructed yielding longitudinally and together with the further elastic joint of the second guide arm forms an approximately transversely extending guide rotary axis and an imaginary wheel guide pole to the rear of the axis of rotation of the wheel and outside of the track width. The wheel guide member includes a spring strut connected with the guide body by way of a wheel-adjusting device which is constructed as part of a wheel inner guide member and is positioned obliquely to the vehicle longitudinal center axis. The spring strut has as part of the wheel inner guide member a smaller length than an adjoining rigid guide member part of the guide member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Reinhard Kunert, Francesco Germano, Wilhelm Kroniger