Plural Opposed Sockets Patents (Class 403/305)
  • Patent number: 11394137
    Abstract: A device is provided for interconnecting cables having a core strand and at least one layer of strands coaxially surrounding the core strand comprises a central tightening member; first and second cylindrical segments having an opening for insertion of an end of a cable and being tightenably connected to the tightening member. An inner conical member is arranged within each cylindrical segment, having a central bore arranged for insertion of an end of the core strand and further having an outer sloping surface on which a layer of strands coaxially surrounding the core strand may be positioned. A cylindrical end piece is arranged within each cylindrical segment, having a central bore arranged for insertion of the cable and further having an inner sloping surface on which a layer of strands coaxially surrounding the core strand may be positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: NEXANS
    Inventor: Ronny Stolan
  • Patent number: 11293182
    Abstract: Described herein is a coupling device, associated parts and a method of use thereof. In one aspect, a coupling device is described comprising a sleeve with an inner surface that encloses at least part of at least one elongated element to be coupled; and at least one deformation means fitted with interference between, and causing local deformation about, at least part of the inner surface of the sleeve and/or an adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element. A deformation means insertion tool, a coupling sleeve, a deformation means, and a method of coupling at least one element are also described. The described coupling device, associated parts and a method of use offer the ability to couple together different elements in a strong and/or ductile manner, coupling being tuneable as needed to suit the preferred application. The coupling described may overcome art issues associated with bulky size of coupling, in particular, radial protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: Coupler Solutions Limited
    Inventors: Christopher James Allington, Andrew Karl Diehl, Peter John Scott, Benjamin Woods, James Gray Gibson
  • Patent number: 11268273
    Abstract: A reinforced building wall comprises a foundation; an anchor rod extending from the foundation; a first stud wall disposed above the foundation, the first stud wall including a first bottom plate and a first top place; a second stud wall disposed above the first stud wall, the second stud wall including a second bottom plate and a second top plate; the first tie rod including first and second threaded end portions, the first end portion is operably connected to the anchor rod; a second tie rod including third and fourth threaded end portions, the third end portion is operably connected to the second end portion of the first tie rod; the second tie rod including an outer end portion operably attached to the second stud wall; an intermediate portion of the first tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the first tie rod; and an intermediate portion of the second tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the second tie rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: CETRES HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M Espinosa
  • Patent number: 11028642
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a roller shade actuation device for actuating a winding drum with an outer surface mounted with an end of a shade body. Opposite ends of the winding drum are rotatably mounted to corresponding frames with the help of pivots. The roller shade actuation device is mounted between one of the frames and the winding drum. The roller shade actuation device includes a middle shaft rotatably mounted to an inner sidewall of the frame, and a plane scroll spring mounted outside the middle shaft and axially parallel to the middle shaft. The middle shaft is connected to a pivot of a corresponding end of the winding drum through shaft connection. An outer end of a reed of the plane scroll spring is fixed to an outer surface of the middle shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: Leafy Windoware Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhenbang Lei, Xingbang Lei
  • Patent number: 10617811
    Abstract: A peristaltic pump for an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, especially for a dialysis machine, for conveying fluid in the apparatus is disclosed. The peristaltic pump includes a rotor driven by a drive shaft, the rotor interacting with an elastically deformable fluid line so as to form a cross-sectional constriction which is displaced along the fluid line for conveying fluid by rotation of the rotor, wherein the rotor is coupled to the drive shaft by a coupling structure so as to transmit a torque, wherein the coupling structure couples the rotor and the drive shaft with a play in the direction of rotation relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: B. Braun Avitum AG
    Inventors: Oliver Schäfer, Andreas Iske
  • Patent number: 10570674
    Abstract: In an oilwell produced by a downhole pump operated by the reciprocation of a string of rods disposed within a string of tubing, a system connects an upper section of the string of rods to a plunger assembly. The system has an upper mechanism attached to the upper section of the string of rods, where the upper mechanism has a housing member having an internal bore section having an approximate inverted conical profile. The upper mechanism has a slip member which is configured to be received into the inverted conical profile. A lower mechanism attaches to the plunger assembly. The lower mechanism has an upward end comprising a pin which, upon engagement by the upper mechanism, is received into the slip member and firmly retained within the slip member. Once the pin is engaged within the slip member, the pin is retained within the slip member until it can be manually released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Black Gold Pump and Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bair, Simon Shin, Kenneth Barbera
  • Patent number: 10480178
    Abstract: A reinforced building wall comprises a foundation; an anchor rod extending from the foundation; a first stud wall disposed above the foundation, the first stud wall including a first bottom plate and a first top place; a second stud wall disposed above the first stud wall, the second stud wall including a second bottom plate and a second top plate; the first tie rod including first and second threaded end portions, the first end portion is operably connected to the anchor rod; a second tie rod including third and fourth threaded end portions, the third end portion is operably connected to the second end portion of the first tie rod; the second tie rod including an outer end portion operably attached to the second stud wall; an intermediate portion of the first tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the first tie rod; and an intermediate portion of the second tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the second tie rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: CETRES HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M Espinosa
  • Patent number: 10472826
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reinforcing bar coupler, for a spiral reinforcing bar, for coupling a pair of spiral reinforcing bars in a straight line, which includes, at one side of the inner part thereof, a protrusion accommodating groove screw-coupled to a spiral protrusion of the spiral reinforcing bar, and a loading part formed to have an inner diameter larger than an outer diameter of the spiral reinforcing bar, such that the end part of the spiral reinforcing bar is accommodated therein without rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Eun Kwan KI
    Inventor: Eun Kwan Ki
  • Patent number: 10119277
    Abstract: A kit for mounting a fixture at a surface comprises first and second brackets for attaching to the fixture and for fixedly locating at the surface. The second bracket defines a cavity for receiving the first bracket in a mounting position of the kit, and the two brackets are connectable by a fastener passed through the pair of brackets arranged in the mounting position. The first bracket features a passageway opening at opposite sides of the bracket, and the second bracket features a fastener aperture and opposite thereto a tip receptacle for receiving a leading tip of the fastener, such that the second bracket is engaged by the fastener at more than one location to maintain the kit in the mounting position. The first and second brackets also feature a cooperating groove and ridge in the interior of the cavity, which are mated in the mounting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Inventor: Nikolai Tscherkaschin
  • Patent number: 10024347
    Abstract: A telescoping rod is adjustable to a range of household environments and includes a first tubular member defining a primary axis. A cam body is secured to an end of the first tubular member, and the cam body defines ramped outer surfaces that vary in distance from the primary axis as a function of angular position about the axis. A second tubular member is sized to slide over the first tubular member and the cam body. The rod also includes a first cam sleeve and a second cam sleeve disposed about the ramped outer surfaces of the cam body. Rotation of the second tubular member about the primary axis relative to the cam body causes the first and the second cam sleeves to exert outward forces against an inner surface of the second tubular member that are applied at substantially different angles relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: LIBERTY HARDWARE MFG. CORP.
    Inventors: Stephen Bertrand, James Leroy Daniels
  • Patent number: 9919279
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler for linking an oscillating kneader to a gear box. The adjustable coupling has a slide coupler adapted to be slidably received within an output couple of a gear box. The slide coupler has external splines wherein the external splines mate with splines of the output couple thereby coupling rotation of the slide coupler with rotation of the output couple. The internal splines are capable of mating with external splines of a slidably received kneader input shaft thereby coupling rotation of the kneader input shaft with rotation of the slide coupler. A plug in the slide coupler abut the kneader input shaft in the slide coupler and a lock mechanism maintains the kneader input shaft abutted against the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: B&P Littleford LLC
    Inventors: Gonzalo Marulanda-Paz, James P. Woodcock
  • Patent number: 9404258
    Abstract: In general, embodiments of the present invention relate to a reinforcing bar connector. Specifically, the present invention provides a reinforcing bar connector including a holder and a binding member. The holder includes a first cover and a second cover. The holder is inserted into the binding member with the reinforcing bars surrounded by the holder. The first cover and the second cover are moved independently from each other enabling a secure connection between the reinforcing bars regardless of whether the reinforcing bars have the same or different lug arrays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Jangpyoung Construction Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young-Su Yun, Byeong-Kwan Na
  • Patent number: 9213303
    Abstract: A replaceable unit for an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a drive coupler accessible on an exterior portion of a body of the replaceable unit. The drive coupler includes an axial locking member that prevents the drive coupler of the replaceable unit from axially disengaging from a corresponding drive coupler of the image forming device. The drive coupler of the replaceable unit includes an axial opening that permits the drive coupler of the replaceable unit to axially disengage from the corresponding drive coupler of the image forming device when the corresponding drive coupler of the image forming device is rotated relative to the drive coupler of the replaceable unit from its operative engagement with the drive coupler of the replaceable unit in a direction opposite an operative rotational direction of the drive coupler of the replaceable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael David Maul
  • Patent number: 9122242
    Abstract: Image recording devices, such as electrophotographic devices, laser printers, copiers, and fax machines, often have a cartridge that utilizes a drive gear to transmit rotational force from the printer to the print cartridge. Also, it is desirable to remanufacture print cartridge both to reduce waste and to save resources. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a drive gear mechanism that is easily replaced or reused when a print cartridge is remanufactured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Static Control Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald R. Huck, Anthony D. Causey
  • Patent number: 8979211
    Abstract: A pin-and-collet assembly, a longwall shearer comprising a ranging arm attached to a lifting bracket with such assembly, a method for the secure fastening of one piece to another, such as securely fastening the ranging arm to the lifting bracket of a longwall shearer using such assembly as a bushing, and a method for longwall mining of ore, such as trona, using such longwall shearer. This assembly is easy to install, does not have to be tightened during longwall operation of an ore panel, and is also demountable when it is time to stop the longwall mining operation and time to remove/replace the ranging arm for maintenance and/or when the end of the ore panel is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Solvay Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn Marshall, Jody Don Burgener
  • Patent number: 8967949
    Abstract: A sound-proofed helicocentrifugal fan includes a helicocentrifugal propeller associated with a motor, housed in a casing formed by a central piece and respective end pieces, which pieces are perforated with holes distributed over the entire surface except for the area around the propeller. A sound-absorbing blanket surrounds the casing, and an outer casing is disposed around the entire assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Soler & Palau Research, S.L.U.
    Inventor: Marius Gamissans Bou
  • Patent number: 8876500
    Abstract: A submersible pumping system, electrical submersible pump, and method of providing enhanced alignment of motor and driven shafts of submersible pumping systems and electrical submersible pumps, are provided. An example of an electrical submersible pump system includes a pump, a pump motor, and a seal section. The motor drives the pump via motor and driven shafts rotatingly coupled with a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly maintains the shaft ends in coaxial alignment with an alignment device. The alignment device is profiled on opposite ends for mating engagement with the centering guides extending from the shaft ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donn J. Brown, Brown Lyle Wilson
  • Patent number: 8783995
    Abstract: The present invention provides a coupling device for coupling an input shaft to an output shaft. The coupling device includes a housing having a first end and a second end. The coupling device further includes a first and second set of splines defined along the inner wall of the housing. The first set of splines is disposed near the first end and is configured for engaging splines of the input shaft. The second set of splines is disposed near the second end of the housing and is configured for engaging splines of the output shaft. The length of the first set of splines is substantially the same as the length of the second set of splines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Mark J. Besler, Jeffrey S. Turner, Alfred S. Smemo
  • Patent number: 8657522
    Abstract: A compression coupler contains a robust and simple mechanism to couple threadless tubes in bicycles and/or scooters. Particulrly, the handlebar/stem tube-to-fork joint is coupled with a compression sleeve. The coupler provides more surface area for binding and is tightened along a slot on the length of the coupler. The coupler can include a headtube bearing preloading mechanism, a keyway for aligning the handlebar/stem tube to the fork, and shims to accommodate different sized tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew David Broussard
  • Patent number: 8651463
    Abstract: A balustrade and a method of manufacturing it are provided. The balustrade has a number of upright posts that are anchored in a substrate and has rails that extend between the posts. The rails are attached to the posts with attachment formations, by way of a press fit, so that the balustrade can be assembled without any welding on site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventors: Jose T. Mao-Cheia, Fredrick E. Basson
  • Patent number: 8591205
    Abstract: A submersible pumping system, electrical submersible pump, and method of providing enhanced alignment of motor and driven shafts of submersible pumping systems and electrical submersible pumps, are provided. An example of an electrical submersible pump system includes a pump, a pump motor, and a seal section. The motor drives the pump via motor and driven shafts rotatingly coupled with a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly maintains the shaft ends in coaxial alignment with an alignment device. The alignment device is profiled on opposite ends for mating engagement with the centering profiles extending into the shaft ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donn J. Brown, Brown Lyle Wilson
  • Patent number: 8413396
    Abstract: A splice tube assembly and corresponding system for connecting multiple fiber-reinforced polymer rebars include a polymeric tube that is externally covered by a reinforcing layer to control radial expansion of grout within the polymeric tube and of the polymeric tube itself, and the polymeric tube may be internally provided with locking structures for mechanically interlocking with the grout, ensuring that the splice tube assembly functions as a unit for transferring loads from a first rebar, extending from a first end of the polymeric tube, to a second rebar, extending from a second end of the polymeric tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Michael G. Oliva, Lawrence C. Bank
  • Patent number: 8307601
    Abstract: A prefabricated wall element comprises a wood-cement plate-like body, a reinforcement embedded in the body and one or more plate-bracket units with a connecting plate rigidly connected to one or more anchoring brackets embedded in the plate-like body and engaged to the reinforcement, in which the plate-like body together with a rear surface of the connecting plate facing inwards the plate-like body define an assembling seat with an access opening lateral to the connecting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: B.B. Bonelli Building S.r.l.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Bonelli
  • Patent number: 7891902
    Abstract: An adapter is provided for coupling an output shaft of a servo to an auxiliary shaft. The adapter includes an adapter body having a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end. The adapter body includes a first bore centered on the longitudinal axis and extending into the first end a first distance. The first bore is configured to accept a portion of the auxiliary shaft. The adapter body also includes a second bore centered on the longitudinal axis and extending into the second end a second distance. The adapter also includes an engagement member positioned within the second bore. The engagement member is configured to accept and engage a portion of the output shaft of the servo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Robotzone, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Pettey
  • Patent number: 7878730
    Abstract: Particular embodiments of the inventive technology relate to a device for connecting the ends of two concrete reinforcing bars in which a metal sleeve has chambers at each end to accommodate the end of one reinforcing bar. Forces may be transferred from one bar to the other through, the use of, inter alia, an adhesive established within the space between the outside of the reinforcing bars and the deformed inner surface of the sleeve. The chambers are, preferably, separated by a fluid impervious barrier. One port associated with each chamber may be established to allow fluid such as air to escape, preventing air voids in the adhesive. Another configuration of the inventive device would be intended for the retention (under load, of course) of only one reinforcing bar, with an enlarged flange for anchoring the end of one reinforcing bar, perhaps at and outer surface of, e.g., a concrete slab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Jason M. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20100303540
    Abstract: The apparatus 100 for connecting bars according to the present invention comprises a pair of bodies 100 for receiving the bars 1, the pair of bodies having cylindrical shape which faces from each other; a plurality of stoppers 120 for firmly holding the bars 1, the plurality of stoppers 120 provided in the pair of bodies in two steps or several steps; a spring 130 for elastically longitudinally supporting the pair of bodies 110, the spring 130 provided in the bottom surface of the plurality of stoppers 120; and an elastic ring 140 for elastically supporting the plurality of stoppers 120 in the radial direction of the pair of bodies, the elastic ring 140 provided on the inner peripheral surface of the plurality of stoppers 120.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Seo Ji Kim, Yu Sie Kim, Young Sook Choi
  • Publication number: 20100260540
    Abstract: A tubular connector system is disclosed for joining two pipe ends. In one form, the pipe ends are joined without the necessity of rotating the pipe ends. A special coupling has opposing tapered ends. Each of the tapered ends slopes inwardly from an inner extent to an outer extent thereof to thereby form a respective mouth opening of the body. Each tapered end of the coupling has a specially contoured surface which is made up of a series of alternating helical spline wedges. The wedges are oppositely tapered from an inner extent to an outer extent thereof, whereby the helical spline wedges form an alternating series of lands and grooves on the body as viewed from the respective mouth openings. The two opposing pipe ends have mating engagement surfaces which engage and mate with the contoured surfaces of the coupling as one pipe end is pushed toward the other during assembly. In another form, the pipe ends are joined with only a slight rotation of the pipe ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Kris L. Church
  • Publication number: 20100054853
    Abstract: A coupling element is provided for a detachable plug connection of a guide tube, which is dividable into at least two sections, with a drive shaft mounted therein for torque transmission between an engine unit and a tool head of a hand-operated string trimmer. A first, upper guide tube section is arranged between the engine unit and the coupling element, and a second, lower guide tube section is arranged between the coupling element and a tool head. The coupling element has a coupling sleeve that provides both an exact alignment of the cutting tool as well as a simple and secure assembly of the guide tube sections. A latching connection with at least one latching element is arranged on the coupling sleeve so that it latches into place in only the correct rotational position on a latching seat of the guide tube section upon insertion of one of the guide tube sections into the coupling sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: DOLMAR GMBH
    Inventor: Mark Jesse
  • Publication number: 20100031607
    Abstract: A splice assembly and corresponding system for connecting multiple fiber-reinforced polymer rebars include a polymeric tube that is externally covered by a reinforcing layer to control radial expansion of grout within the polymeric tube and of the polymeric tube itself, and the polymeric tube may be internally provided with locking structures for mechanically interlocking with the grout, ensuring that the splice assembly functions as a unit for transferring loads from a first rebar, extending from a first end of the polymeric tube, to a second rebar, extending from a second end of the polymeric tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Michael G. Oliva, Lawrence C. Bank
  • Patent number: 7566186
    Abstract: A drive coupling assembly (10) for attaching two shafts includes a coupler body (11) and a locking clip (12). The body (11) has a splined opening (23) which is adapted to receive one shaft, and an aperture (24) which is adapted to receive a drive shaft (13) of a motor (14). A slot (25) is formed in coupler body (11) and the slot (25) communicates with the aperture (24). The clip (12) is positioned in the slot (25) and includes a spring tab (33) which can engage an undercut (40) in the shaft (13) to maintain the drive coupling assembly (10) on the shaft (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Vita-Mix Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Katz, Richard D. Boozer, Gregory S. Ans, Robert F. Beesley, Jay Honsaker, Donald M. Malec
  • Patent number: 7325601
    Abstract: An electrical submersible pump assembly has first and second modular component sections, each of the sections having an outer housing and an inner shaft member. A coupling sleeve having a bore is disposed between the modular component sections and receives the shaft member of each of the component sections. The bore of the coupling sleeve and the shaft members have mating drive shoulders for transmitting torque. An axial tension transmitting shoulder is affixed to the shaft member of the first modular component section and located in the bore of the coupling sleeve. A latch member carried by the shaft member of the second modular component section engages the axial tension transmitting shoulder as the modular components are moved together to secure the shaft members to one another for transferring axial tension from one of the shaft members to the other. A retainer prevents disengagement of the latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John J. Mack, Earl B. Brookbank
  • Publication number: 20070253768
    Abstract: A coupler system which changes the relationship of two or more rotating shade tubes is disclosed. The invention enables the installer to compensate for the height of the hembar by rotating the tube forward or backward any desired number of degrees. The coupler includes a cam which is adjusted by opposing set screws. The cam may be rotated by about 15 degrees in each direction. Adjusting the cam adjusts the second tube without adjusting the first tube (e.g., the drive or motor end tube). The adjustment device is configured to rotate the cam which, in turn, rotates the second tube to align a second hem bar hanging from the second tube with a first hem bar hanging from the first tube. The adjustments may be accomplished with minimal or no removal or adjustment of the other shades, and with minimal friction on the aligned shade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: MECHOSHADE SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Xi Ming Li, Steve Hebeisen, Salvatore Vasapolli
  • Patent number: 7118299
    Abstract: A high strength reinforcing bar splice uses a contractible jaw assembly bridging the bar ends to be joined. The jaw assembly includes interior teeth designed to bite into the projecting ribs or deformations on the outside of the bar ends which form the overall diameter of the bar but not the core or nominal diameter of the bar. The jaw assembly is constricted from both axial ends by driving tapered locking collars on each end of the jaw assembly with a tool while concurrently causing the jaw assembly to constrict and bite into the bar ends. When the tool is removed, the collars remain in place locking the jaw assembly closed. The splice provides not only high tensile and compressive strengths but also has good fatigue and dynamic strength to qualify as a Type 2 coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: ERICO International Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Gregel, Colleen M. Kerkay, Mark V. Samas, Wilhelmus G. Th. Maas, Louis J. Colarusso
  • Patent number: 7107735
    Abstract: A coupling device for the coupling of reinforcing bars, the coupling device comprising an elongate tubular body configured for receiving reinforcing bars, in particular their end portions, at least one recessed gripping surface being formed on an inner surface of the elongate tubular body, the recessed gripping surface comprising a plurality of teeth being configured to engage the reinforcing bars in response to the engagement of the reinforcing bars by a plurality of engaging bolts being adjustably positioned through the elongate tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Ultimate Design Solutions Ltd.
    Inventor: Ian Hopwood
  • Patent number: 7093402
    Abstract: A coupling device for coupling reinforcing bars used in structural concrete comprising an elongate tubular body for receiving bar end portions, a plurality of engagers being adjustably positioned through the elongate tubular body, the coupling device being characterized in that the plurality of engagers are configured with a plurality of different end portions being configured for a different engaging of the reinforcing bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Ultimate Design Solutions Ltd.
    Inventor: Ian Hopwood
  • Patent number: 7065824
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning implement with a removable cleaning element comprising a base member having a first end with an annular toothed edge and at least one resilient retention member positioned intermediate the toothed edge and a second end of the base member, each resilient retention member having a stop surface facing the second end. An annular locking member is movably mounted on the base member, the locking member having an inner wall surface and at least one ledge projecting from the inner wall surface and adapted to abut the retention member stop surface. The inner wall surface of the locking member further includes a threaded portion intermediate an end of the locking member and the ledge. Also included is a cleaning element mounting member having an annular toothed edge for complementary engagement with the toothed edge of the base member and an outer wall surface with a threaded portion for threaded engagement with the threaded portion of the locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Quickie Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Robert E. Petner
  • Patent number: 6979151
    Abstract: A timber pile connector for splicing timber pilings together comprising a section of pipe having a continuous sidewall and a hollow bore, a pair of opposing slots through the sidewall, and a bar passing through the slots. A first end of the bar has a first cut therein to thereby form a first upper retaining member and a first lower retaining member. A second end of the bar has a second cut therein to thereby form a second upper retaining member and a second lower retaining member. The first and the second upper retaining members are bent upward against an outer surface of the side wall of the section of pipe, while the first and the second lower retaining members bent downward against the outer surface of the sidewall, such that the retaining members fixedly secure the bar in the slots to thereby form a penetration barrier in the section of pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Henry Bourgeo
  • Patent number: 6966104
    Abstract: A tool for forming a high strength reinforcing bar coupling driving self-locking wedge sleeves over each end of a contractible jaw assembly bridging the abutting ends of the bar to be joined. The sleeves are seated in collars engaged by the distal ends of arms driven for closure by a piston-cylinder power unit and a cam on at least one arm. In one form the cam on one arm is engaged by a roller connected by a tension link to the other arm. In another form cams are provided on each arm driven by rollers fixed with respect to each other. The collars include self-releasing collets seating the sleeves. The tool has other uses such as bar shearing or forming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Erico International Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Gregel, Glenn T. Siracki
  • Patent number: 6925773
    Abstract: A reinforcing bar connection for concrete construction utilizes a sleeve supporting internal spring washers having flexible inner edges which engage a bar inserted in the sleeve. The reinforced inner edges of the washers bite into the bar and grip the bar preventing withdrawal. The washers have openings which permit the sleeve to be filled with a hardenable matrix such as grout or resin. In a preferred form, shoulder forming wedge grooves are formed in ends of the sleeve. The connection may be used as a dowel socket, a continuity set, or as butt end-to-end bar splice for axially aligned bar of the same or different size. The connection provides not only high compressive and tensile strengths but also will provide the dynamic and/or fatigue characteristics to qualify as Type 2 coupler approved for use in all United States earthquake zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Erico International Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Gregel, Louis J. Colarusso, Lawrence Gene Gatton
  • Patent number: 6905278
    Abstract: A connection point (1) between two tool parts is proposed which are joined by means of a threaded spindle (7) oriented in longitudinal direction of the tool parts. The threaded spindle has two oppositely threaded sections (13, 15) which interact with two threaded areas (17, 19) in the tool parts. The connection point (1) is distinguished in that at least one end area of the threaded spindle (7) has a shoulder (63), the outside diameter of which is smaller that the interior diameter of the associated threaded area (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Mapal Fabrik fur Präzisionswerkzeuge
    Inventors: Dieter Kress, Friederich Häberle
  • Patent number: 6880224
    Abstract: A process for forming an improved tensile strength deformed reinforcing bar splice for use in concrete construction by radially compressing or cold forming the bar end with dies literally to flatten any ribs or deformations on the bar end to cold work a section of the bar end which will extend beyond any threaded section and the mouth of a coupler thereon. The splice formed has superior tensile qualities. The process is inexpensive and may be accomplished at or near a construction site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Erico International Corporation
    Inventors: Louis Colarusso, Mark Victor Samas
  • Patent number: 6851245
    Abstract: A mortar grouting type joint for reinforcing bars is provided, which comprises a hollow cylindrical body having an opening cover (2) at an end, a bolt hole (8) on the side wall, and a supporting protrusion (5) on the inner peripheral wall, adapted to support reinforcing bars (12) with a bolt (13) and the supporting protrusion (5), wherein the supporting protrusion (5) consists of a pair of thin-walled members extending in parallel in the longitudinal direction of the hollow cylindrical body, and each thin-walled member has a ridge line (7) sloping toward the opening cover (2), with the portion of the thin-walled member supporting the reinforcing bar (12) inserted through the opening cover (2) constituting the apex, whereby the reinforcing bar to be inserted can be automatically guided to the position coaxial with the joint, said joint being suitable for performing connection of a number of sets of bare reinforcing bars such as connection of reinforcing bar structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Splice Sleeve Japan, Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahiro Abukawa
  • Patent number: 6840702
    Abstract: A tube combination has upper and lower tubes, which are joined together with a coupling, and which have spaced annular trenches on outer sides. Annular projections are formed on the upper end of the lower tube and the lower end of the upper tube; the annular projections are pressed against each other when the tubes are joined together, and are shaped such that they together are in the shape of the annular trenches when the tubes are joined together, making the tube combination look like one having a single tube part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Chin-Shan Ko
  • Patent number: 6837643
    Abstract: A rod coupling formed of a tubular housing having a first box end and a second box end. The tubular housing has an interior surface defining a bore extending along the tubular housing from the first box end to the second box end, and has an exterior surface. Plural openings extending transversely through the housing from the interior surface to the exterior surface. A coating on the exterior surface of the tubular housing covers the plural openings, and may fill the openings or extend through the openings to form knobs inside the tubular housing. The coatings may taper from the exterior surface towards the interior surface. The openings are preferably distributed uniformly around the tubular housing. The openings are preferably distributed in plural rows. A rod string may be made up of plural such rod couplings and connecting rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Arthur W. Lauder
  • Publication number: 20040261244
    Abstract: A process for forming an improved tensile strength deformed reinforcing bar splice for use in concrete construction by radially compressing or cold forming the bar end with dies literally to flatten any ribs or deformations on the bar end to cold work a section of the bar end which will extend beyond any threaded section and the mouth of a coupler thereon. The splice formed has superior tensile qualities. The process is inexpensive and may be accomplished at or near a construction site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Louis Colarusso, Mark Victor Samas
  • Patent number: 6820301
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning implement with a removable cleaning element comprising a base member having a first end with an annular toothed edge and at least one resilient retention member positioned intermediate the toothed edge and a second end of the base member, each resilient retention member having a stop surface facing the second end. An annular locking member is movably mounted on the base member, the locking member having an inner wall surface and at least one ledge projecting from the inner wall surface and adapted to abut the retention member stop surface. The inner wall surface of the locking member further includes a threaded portion intermediate an end of the locking member and the ledge. Also included is a cleaning element mounting member having an annular toothed edge for complementary engagement with the toothed edge of the base member and an outer wall surface with a threaded portion for threaded engagement with the threaded portion of the locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Quickie Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Robert E. Petner
  • Publication number: 20040228678
    Abstract: The securing clip for securing the first panel member with the second panel member, the securing clip being like the S-character in cross section, includes a first fitting portion for fitting a holed end portion of the first panel member, and a second fitting portion for fitting a holed end portion of the second panel member, wherein each of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion is formed with an engaging pawl engaging a hole at the end portion of the corresponding panel member on an inner wall face of its own, and the second fitting portion is formed with an engagement wall engaging a regulation wall provided on the second panel member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: Piolax Inc.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Kojima, Takashi Koike, Shinya Takashima
  • Patent number: 6814523
    Abstract: Connecting element for joining two support members (2, 3) absorbing tensile forces, which connecting element (1) comprises at least a first and a second casing body (5, 6) with a through-hole (7) for receiving the respective support members (2, 3), which casing bodies (5, 6) can be joined together by way of a joining section (9) at a first end (11) of each casing body (5, 6), the opposing second end (13) of each casing body (5, 6) being provided with locking members (15, 16) for holding the support members (2, 3) fast. In a working position the locking member (15, 16) of at least one casing body (5, 6) produces an axial locking of the support member (2, 3) running through the casing body (5, 6) by way of a stop part (20) created on the support member (2, 3) within the area of the second end (13) of the casing body (5, 6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: VSL International AG
    Inventor: Ivar Nilsson
  • Publication number: 20040190982
    Abstract: A coupling arrangement for enabling fixing of a body structure member and a structure member. The coupling arrangement comprises, at least two threaded tubes provided one in either end portion of a passage through a housing. The housing being fixed attachable in relation to said structure members and having a threaded passage, wherein a threaded bolt is arranged through said passage. The threaded bolt is adapted to connect said body structure member and said structure member in a coupling position, from which coupling position said threaded bolt, via inserts, enables adjusting operation of said threaded tubes in opposite directions along said threaded bolt. Thus, the threaded tubes are adjustable to a respective fixed position by screwing the threaded bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: Martin Swahn, Tom Stoddart
  • Publication number: 20040184872
    Abstract: An anchoring rod for rock anchoring (self-drilling injection bolts), includes an outer thread for connecting the anchoring rod to a drilling tool via a coupling sleeve. The end of the anchoring rod, which is screwed into the coupling sleeve, comprises a section which has a reduced diameter in comparison with the outer diameter of the anchoring rod. The free end of the section of the anchoring rod with the reduced diameter comprises a bevel. An open space is thus formed between the inner surface of the coupling sleeve and the reduced diameter end of the anchoring rod. The space stops the anchoring rod from becoming stuck in the coupling sleeve, even when the end of the rod is plastically deformed during the drilling process, so that the anchoring rod can be unscrewed from the coupling sleeve without applying significant force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Hannes Papousek, Herbert Papousek Jr