Tapered Patents (Class 403/334)
  • Patent number: 11738475
    Abstract: A windshield removal tool has elongate arm with a claw at its distal end. The device also includes a winch actuated by a motor at the proximal end of the arm. When a cutting wire is positioned along an adhesive bead about a periphery of a fixed glass or panel, the cutting wire is threaded through a puncture in the adhesive bead and attached to the winch. The claw engages a location along the adhesive bead as the winch wines in the cutting wire. A pulley near the distal end of the arm guides the wire. The device may be removed from an initial anchored position and anchored at a new position by removing the claw and placing it at another point along the periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Inventors: Daniel Boehmer, Connie M. Ciccarone
  • Patent number: 11635161
    Abstract: A medium connector including a passage configured to allow for the flow of medium, and a multi-portion engagement surface positioned about the passage. The multi-portion engagement surface includes a first surface portion, and a second surface portion. The first surface portion is configured to provide an interference fit with a corresponding sealing surface of a mating connector. The second surface portion is configured to provide a clearance fit with the corresponding sealing surface of the mating connector. The ratio of the first surface portion and the second surface portion is selected to regulate an engagement force between the medium connector and the mating connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: DEKA PRODUCTS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
    Inventor: Brian D. Tracey
  • Patent number: 11053703
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure, in particular for a wind turbine, having at least two segments, which are joined to one another such that their longitudinal axes extend substantially collinearly to one another. At least one of the segments is a pipe section, which has at least two mutually facing abutment surfaces that are joined to one another, at least in parts. A support structure is provided that is producible in less time and is more cost-effective because the join between the abutment surfaces involves at least one welded join, the thickness of the welding join being less than the wall thickness of the pipe section, and/or the join between the abutment surfaces involves at least one retaining clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: INNOGY SE
    Inventors: Daniel Bartminn, Artur Czarnecki, Benjamin Matlock
  • Patent number: 10927522
    Abstract: A structural assembly for a work machine and method of assembling a node and strut structure are provided. The assembly includes at least one strut extending along a longitudinal axis and having a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The assembly further includes node members. Each of the node members has a first node portion with a first node cavity. The first end portion of at least one strut is configured to engage the first node portion of one of the node members. The second end portion of at least one strut is configured to engage the first node portion of another node member. An adhesive bonds the first end portion and the second end portion of the strut to the node members at the first node cavity of each of the node members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Inventors: Scott S. Hendron, Nathan F. Tortorella, Mohamad S. El-Zein, Hector Portillo, Hema V. Guthy, Sankaran Subramaniam, Kristine M. Johanning, Kent A. Burkett, Jamie M. Coates, Jesse J. Kueter
  • Patent number: 10136933
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides, in certain aspects, unique methods and systems for connecting orthopedic components. In some forms, a male-type projection of a first orthopedic component is securely lodged within a female-type aperture in a second orthopedic component. In one embodiment, the projection, while received through a proximal entryway in the aperture, includes a first longitudinal region with deformed surface elements that provide a first securing zone within the aperture and a second longitudinal region with deformed surface elements that provide a second securing zone within the aperture. The first securing zone is located proximate the distal end of the projection, and the second securing zone is located proximate the proximal entryway of the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven L. Meulink, Paul J. Conrad
  • Patent number: 10041269
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tower section for a wind turbine which includes at least two tower elements stacked and arranged edge-to-edge at a joining plane, each tower element includes at least two wall segments, connected to one another by first connectors. The tower section further includes second connectors each extending astride the two adjacent tower elements along the longitudinal direction. Each second connector extends in the longitudinal extension of a first connector and has a width increasing, from the first connector, from a first width substantially equal to the width of the first connector to a second width strictly larger than the first width, the second width being reached before the joining plane starting from the first connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: ArcelorMittal
    Inventor: Michaël Gremling
  • Patent number: 9945427
    Abstract: A cone piece is tightened into a compatibly shaped hole in the end of a shaft. As the cone piece is tightened, it forces the shaft to expand outwards. As the shaft expands, it creates or increases pressure against a hub, wheel, crank or other mating piece that is positioned on the shaft, locking it into place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Bionic Power Inc.
    Inventor: Charles David Halliburton
  • Patent number: 9803351
    Abstract: A roll form framing system has a plurality of support beams being interconnected by a plurality of couplers and a plurality of splines. Each of the plurality of support beams including a beam body, a first structural channel, and a second structural channel. The first structural channel and the second structural channel are formed into an outer lateral wall of the beam body, wherein the first structural channel and the second structural channel provide a recess for aligning a plurality of fasteners utilized to secure the plurality of support beams, the plurality of couplers, and the plurality of splines to each other. The outer lateral wall and an inner lateral wall of the beam body delineate a coupler receiving volume for accepting one of the plurality of couplers, while the inner lateral wall delineates a spline receiving volume for accepting one of the plurality of splines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventor: Gary Alan Ledford
  • Patent number: 9592126
    Abstract: A liner adapted for insertion into an acetabular shell for use in hip arthroplasty. The liner includes a concave inner surface adapted to engage a femoral head. The liner also includes an outer surface adapted to engage the acetabular shell and a rim that extends between the inner surface and the outer surface. The outer surface includes a locking section extending from the rim, a composite-curved section extending from the locking section at a first transition point, and a dome section extending from the composite-curved section, wherein at the first transition point, the composite-curved section is tangential to the locking section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: John M Armacost, James A Caywood, Ryan C Keefer
  • Publication number: 20150136491
    Abstract: A polished rod clamp includes a clamp housing having a central passage passing through a tapered bore. A wedge lock is arranged in the tapered bore such that a first surface of the wedge lock is in sliding engagement with a tapered surface of the tapered bore and a second surface of the wedge lock grips a rod in the central passage in a lock position. A first reciprocating piston is arranged to apply a first force to the wedge lock that effects a relative sliding motion between the wedge lock and the tapered surface in a first direction corresponding to the lock direction of the wedge lock. A second reciprocating piston is arranged to apply a second force to the wedge lock that effects a relative sliding motion between the wedge lock and the tapered surface in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Bill W. White
  • Patent number: 9027895
    Abstract: A portable support for supporting equipment above a surface having an opening to a subsurface space. The support includes a head, an elevator on the head, and legs connected to the head for supporting the head above the surface. Each of the legs has a foot for engaging the surface when supporting the head above the surface. The support also includes an elongate rod vertically mounted on the elevator for movement between a raised position, in which an upper end of the rod extends above the head, and a lowered position, in which a lower end of the rod extends below the feet of the legs to extend into the subsurface space. The support includes an instrument platform positionable on the lower end of the rod when in the lowered position to support the equipment in the subsurface space when the rod is in the lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: SECO Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Hunter, James M. Copeland, Christopher James McNeill
  • Publication number: 20150003763
    Abstract: A system and method for mounting a bearing assembly on a shaft includes an internal flange, external flange, and a sleeve. The internal flange is securable to the bearing assembly and has a displacement pin extending outward that defines an initial position of the bearing assembly relative to the shaft. The external flange is secured to the internal flange via fasteners passing through elongated holes. The external flange has an opening configured to receive the displacement pin. The external flange may be rotated when coupled to the internal flange with the fasteners between a first position where the external flange opening is not in register with the displacement pin and a second position where the external flange opening is in register with the displacement pin. A sleeve has a tapered outside diameter and is engageable with the external flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: William Gregory Hewitt
  • Patent number: 8875931
    Abstract: A composite sandwich shell edge joint includes an outboard buildup pad, an inboard buildup pad spaced-apart and adjacent to the outboard buildup pad, an outboard face sheet extending from the outboard buildup pad, an inboard face sheet extending from the inboard buildup pad, bridging plies connecting the outboard buildup pad and the inboard buildup pad and at least one barrel nut installed in the buildup pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael Leslie Hand, Douglas A. McCarville
  • Publication number: 20140034286
    Abstract: A plug for ease of alignment of a temperature probe or sensor inside a duct of a transformer winding is provided. The plug is shaped for secure placement into a duct or passage of a transformer winding without requiring any adhering material. The insertion of the plug into the duct or passage brings the temperature probe into contact with the desired point along the transformer winding being thermally monitored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: ABB INC.
    Inventors: Charlie Sarver, William E. Pauley, JR., Barry Dean Havens, Christopher Lee Adams, Dan William Benedict
  • Patent number: 8590276
    Abstract: The invention concerns a tower element for a tower, preferably for a wind power plant, where several tower elements with an outer surface and an inner surface are mounted on top of each other, where the periphery of the tower element is made up of a number of segments provided with inwardly facing flanges at the longitudinal sides, the flanges being connected to corresponding flanges on laterally arranged segments. The individual segments are made with an overlap on the outer surface in the transverse joints and with a butt joint at the inwardly facing flanges. By the invention there is achieved flexibility in production and during transport and mounting. With an overlap on the outer surface between two segments, mechanical joining can be performed between two segments in transverse direction. This mechanical joint between two segments results in a more stable construction and a rigidity substantially corresponding to the rigidity that may be achieved in segments joined by welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Andresen Towers A/S
    Inventors: Arne Kryger, Lars Ryholl
  • Patent number: 8573547
    Abstract: A ready to assemble chair base includes three leg components. First and second leg components each include two of the five legs, and a third leg component includes a single leg. A hub portion of all three components includes a portion of the central tapered hole. The hub portions of the first and second components join together with vertical interlocking surfaces slidably locking together in the direction of the axis of the central tapered hole. The hub of the third leg component is formed in the shape of a tenon blade and is inserted into a horizontal mortise slot (perpendicular to the axis of the central hole) formed by the interlocked hubs of the first and second leg components. A gas lift post is received into the center, tapered hole of the assembled base locking all three components together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Whalen Furniture Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas B. Hazzard, Tracy Leigh Hazzard
  • Publication number: 20130193281
    Abstract: A connector for an equipment support includes a housing having an interior area defined by a wall. The interior area extends inwardly from an opening on one end thereof. The wall has one or more longitudinal slots extending through the wall. The connector includes one or more engagement pads positioned in the interior area and being radially moveable in the longitudinal slot. The engagement pads have an exterior engagement surface and a tapered interior engagement surface. The connector includes a plunger moveably positioned in the interior area. The plunger defines a tapered exterior surface that tapers radially inward from a first end thereof and terminates at a seating end. The tapered exterior surface slidingly engages the tapered interior engagement surface. The plunger defines an activation portion. The engagement pads move radially in response to a force applied to the activation portion of the plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THE MUSIC PEOPLE, INC.
    Inventor: The Music People, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20120070226
    Abstract: The disclosure refers to an insert for attaching a first component to a second component. The insert comprises a body with portions being arranged in the following sequence along a centre line of the insert between two front ends: A first portion with a first diameter; a second portion with a second diameter; a third portion with a third diameter, and a fourth portion with a fourth diameter. The geometries are such that the second diameter is less than the first diameter and less than the third diameter, and the third diameter is less than the first diameter. Finally, the fourth diameter is less than the third diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Bossard AG
    Inventor: Yung Ta Su
  • Publication number: 20120009011
    Abstract: A hay spear accessory apparatus for providing a secure and fixed mounting point for attachments such as ropes, chains, cables and the like, the apparatus being generally comprised of a an open-ended sleeve member having an interior diameter sized for slidable engagement over the distal end of a hay spear, the sleeve having attachment mounting means fixedly connected to the outer surface thereof. The interior of the sleeve has a varied diameter so as to accommodate the receipt of hay spears of various diameters. The apparatus of the subject invention is designed for frictional engagement with a hay spear, but optional securing means are also provided which prevent axial displacement of the apparatus along the hay spear once mounted thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald Douglas Cannon
  • Publication number: 20110271509
    Abstract: A joint comprising first and second abutting components, and an adjustable strap assembly bridging the abutting components, the strap assembly including a first strap part attached to one of the components, and a second strap part attached to the other component, the first and second strap parts having mating inclined faces for adjustment of the second strap part with respect to the first strap part such that the position of the second strap part is adjustable with respect to the first strap part in the direction of the incline. Also, a method of forming the joint, comprising attaching the first strap part to the first component, providing the second strap part such that the inclined faces of the first and second strap parts are in mating engagement, adjusting the second strap part with respect to the first strap part in the direction of the incline to position the second strap part in a desired relationship with respect to the first strap part, and attaching the second strap part to the second component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Victor Willdig, Jon McAlinden
  • Publication number: 20110262218
    Abstract: A dovetail coupling arrangement is disclosed for securing two removable parts along a coupling axis. The dovetail coupling arrangement includes multiple opposing surfaces between the receiver of a first member and the projection of a second member to provide resistance to forces transmitted in a direction orthogonal to the coupling axis. Such an arrangement may be utilized for jaw sets associated with hydraulic construction, demolition, and scrap handling equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: John R. Ramun
  • Publication number: 20110209920
    Abstract: An insertion coupling for a boring rod assembly with at least two coupling elements is disclosed. The coupling elements include at least one corresponding tapered coupling face pair constructed to produce play-free clamping when pressing forces are applied to the insertion coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: FRANZ JOSEF PÜTTMANN
  • Publication number: 20110150680
    Abstract: A coupling system for receiving a push rod includes a housing defining an internal channel having a sloped wall, and a piston received within the internal channel. The piston includes at least one flexible member arranged within the channel to be acted upon by the sloped wall to engage the push rod. The only external force required to couple the push rod is an axial force on the piston in a direction. The only external force required to de-couple the push rod is an axial force on the piston in an opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernest A. Dion, Ed D. McLean, Fred W. Boussu, Manny J. Salinas, Sean J. Albert
  • Patent number: 7937904
    Abstract: A corner joint between two frame lineals of a pultruded window frame is defined by inserting a leg of a corner member into a hollow interior of each lineal and attaching the legs to the lineals by adhesive. Each leg has a plurality of surfaces thereof each having a first portion at the corner which lies closely adjacent a corresponding surface of the first lineal and a second portion, at the end of the first portion remote from the corner which tapers inwardly away from the corresponding surface of the first lineal such that a spacing therebetween increases in the direction away from the corner. The adhesive is applied to the tapered portion and the taper acts to force the adhesive along the leg to the first portion and to the ends of the lineals where the excess can be wiped away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Laurence W. Davies
  • Publication number: 20100260542
    Abstract: A mounting system is disclosed for mounting a bearing assembly or other mechanical element to a shaft. The mounting system uses a tapered sleeve mechanism to secure the bearing assembly on the shaft. Specifically, a plurality of screws point load the tapered sleeve and drive it from a pre-assembled position to an initial position. Once the initial position has been reached a plurality of fasteners then drive the sleeve from the initial position to a final position. The difference between the initial position and final position determined by the width of a removable spacer used in the mounting system. The system also incorporates a jack screw mechanism used to dismount the bearing assembly from the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: BALDOR ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: William Gregory Hewitt, Joseph J. Maloney
  • Patent number: 7785061
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for reorienting a toroidally shaped core configured to carry a green tire. The core includes a central axis defined through first and second oppositely facing tapered recesses respectively including first and second locking mechanisms. The apparatus includes a core support structure including a base and a reorientation member connected for movement relative to said base and a core coupling member. The core coupling member connects for movement with the reorientation member and includes a core locking mechanism that couples with the core coupling member and locks the core coupling member to the core. A drive system couples with the reorientation member and operatively moves the reorientation member so as to change the orientation of the central axis from a first orientation to a second, different orientation transverse to the first orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: William Dudley Currie, Dennis Alan Lundell, David Alan Henthorne, Mary Beth Dombrosky
  • Patent number: 7775201
    Abstract: An assembly is disclosed, which may include at least one latch element having at least one retaining wall comprising a tapered surface. Further, the assembly may include at least one base element having at least one tapered side surface configured to couple to a respective tapered surface of the at least one retaining wall. Optionally, the latch element may include at least two retaining walls and the base element may include at least two tapered side surfaces. A movable locking element may be configured to be selectively positioned at a first position to couple the at least one base element to the at least one latch element and at least a second position to decouple the at least one base element and the at least one latch element. An archery system including such an assembly is disclosed as well as a method of coupling a base element to a latch element. Adjustable quivers and components are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Hoyt Archery, Inc.
    Inventor: Darin B. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20100202823
    Abstract: A clamping arrangement for the force-fit connection of an outer component arrangement having a recess to an inner component arrangement, the clamping arrangement including an inner conical ring and an outer conical ring wherein one of the conical rings has bores for the leadthrough of clamping screws and the respective other conical ring has threaded bores for screwing in the clamping screws to brace the inner and outer conical rings against one another via the mutually facing first and second conical peripheral surfaces, and against the inner and outer component arrangement. At least one of the bores for the leadthrough of the clamping screw having an ejector thread for an ejector screw and the diameter of the ejector thread being greater than the diameter of the corresponding clamping screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Zlatko Dizdarevic
  • Publication number: 20100189502
    Abstract: A watercraft lifting system includes a bunk rail assembly, an intermediate frame assembly, a base assembly and a ground support assembly. The bunk rail assembly includes a bunk rail coupled to a load distribution member. The load distribution member is received by the bunk rail such that the bunk rail may rotate by at least a limited amount relative to the load distribution member. The bunk rail may slideably receive a bunk cushion and form a channel therewith for sandwiching a rigid structural member (e.g., a board). The watercraft lifting system may also include contoured clamps that cooperate to distribute and transfer load between frame members. In one embodiment, the contoured clamps include parabolically-shaped inner surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Samuel T. Basta, Gene Thompson
  • Patent number: 7731669
    Abstract: A composite guidewire comprising a proximal wire segment having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the distal end being formed with a first flat planar bonding face which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the proximal wire segment having a first elasticity; a distal wire segment having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the proximal end being formed with a second flat planar bonding face which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the distal wire segment having a second elasticity; wherein the first and second flat planar bonding faces of the proximal wire segment are formed complementary to one another; and further wherein the proximal and distal wire segments are joined together by bonding the first flat planar bonding face to the second flat planar bonding face in an overlapping manner and a method for forming a composite guidewire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Concert Medical, LLC
    Inventors: Eric D. Mathews, Andrew M. Whitehead, John R. Panicci
  • Publication number: 20100123311
    Abstract: A thread form is shown which is used to make a threaded connection between two tubular members and which is capable of being screwed together and subsequently unscrewed. A pin member is provided having external threads with stab flanks and load flanks and flat crests and roots for mating with the mating internal threads of a box member to make up a pipe connection. The thread crests on the pin member are cylindrical with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the tubular member while the thread roots are cut on a taper so that the height of the threads vary over the length of the thread form. The threads on the pin and box members can also be cut oppositely so that respective members of the thread forms are mirror images of each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Kris L. Church
  • Publication number: 20100111596
    Abstract: A cylinder having an attachment on which a component having an internal taper surface is fixed, wherein in a positive anti-turning connection is in effect between the cylinder, and the taper connection has at least two regions in the circumferential direction having a smaller and a larger taper angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Günther Handke, Manfred Schuler, Klaus Stretz, Josef Renn
  • Publication number: 20100003074
    Abstract: A steel bar connecting structure is disclosed. The steel bar connecting structure includes a connecting sleeve having on an inner circumference thereof an internal threaded part, and a steel bar having an external threaded part which engages with the internal threaded part. The steel bar is inserted into the connecting sleeve. Each of the internal threaded part and the external threaded part is formed such that a crest of each of threads thereof is cut. Thereby, when the steel bar is strongly coupled to the connecting sleeve, a neighboring crest and root of the internal threaded part and the external threaded part are not in contact with each other, whereas inclined flanks of the threads of the internal threaded part and the external threaded part are in close contact with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: BARO CONSTRUCTION KEY-TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kwang Man Kim
  • Publication number: 20090183713
    Abstract: A fuel lance assembly for an engine comprises: a fuel lance to be received in a passage provided in a cylinder head and a connection arrangement comprising an inlet adapter for securing the fuel lance within the passage. The fuel lance comprises a tubular member of constant external diameter, arranged to be received, in use, within the passage and having a first end being shaped for cooperation with a seating surface of a fuel injector of the engine, and a second end being shaped for cooperation with the inlet adapter, and being provided with a bore therethrough to define a fuel flow path between the first end and the second end of the fuel lance. The inlet adapter is provided with an attachment system for engaging a compatible attachment system of the cylinder head, and has a proximal region for receiving a high pressure fuel pipe, and wherein the inlet adapter has a distal region provided with an opening being adapted to receive the second end of the fuel lance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Fabrizio A. Bonfigli, Philippe Legrand, Emmanuel Autret, Robert A. D'Aubyn, Simon H. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7473049
    Abstract: A shaft assembly includes a metallic portion and a ceramic portion. In a disclosed example, a ceramic shaft has a generally conical end that is at least partially received within a generally conical recess in one end of a metallic shaft. The recess has a first portion that has an inner surface that is received directly against a corresponding outer surface on a section of the ceramic shaft conical portion. A second portion of the recess is radially spaced from the ceramic shaft and provides a controlled gap within which a braze alloy is maintained. In one example, the second portion has an axial length that is more than twice a radial depth of the second portion. In another example, a transition surface between the first and second portions of the recess has a linear profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand
    Inventors: John E. Holowczak, Constance Bird, Gary E. Sanders, Anthony F. Giamei, Robert Telakowski, Edward Allen Rothman
  • Patent number: 7125193
    Abstract: An orthopedic component comprising a first element and a second element, with the first element and the second element being secured to one another with a modular connection, wherein the modular connection comprises a taper junction and an engaged-fit junction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Depuy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfred S. Despres, III, Daniel E. E. Hayes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7004668
    Abstract: An improved connector for flex shafts for a string trimmer has an input area and a drive area, where the input area of the connector has a modified diamond shape with sloping sides. This diamond shape allows for easy and reliable connection of the driven working end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: MTD Products Inc
    Inventors: Fred Lombardo, Michael Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6886484
    Abstract: A composite tension rod is received in the sleeve portion of a shank that forms part of a terminal fitting, and is spaced from the shank sleeve and connected thereto by a potting resin. The shank sleeve wall tapers out from thin at its distal end to thick at the bury depth of the rod. The rod is tapered outwardly from a point of minimum diameter at its inner end to its full diameter a given distance from the end. The shank sleeve and rod have complementary dual tapering along said length such that as the diameter of the rod along said distance increases, the wall thickness of the shank sleeve decreases. The resin layer and the rod are secured to each other against relative longitudinal movement, as are the resin layer and the shank sleeve. In another aspect of the invention, a tension rod sleeve is fixed to the tension rod and extends over the distal end of the shank sleeve and along all or a majority of the length of the shank sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Georg K. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20040025294
    Abstract: An automotive hinge comprises: a door component adapted to be mounted to a vehicular closing panel, the door component comprising a conical pivot axis aperture; a body component adapted to be mounted to a vehicular body structure, said body component comprising a pivot arm; the door component and the body component being adapted to rotate about a pivot axis; the body component comprising an upstanding, conical structural feature extending from the body component and adapted to be coaxially aligned with the pivot axis and structurally fixed to the pivot arm of the body component; the conical structural feature comprising an external conical bearing surface; such that when the hinge is assembled, the door component interleaves over the body component, dimensionally locating the door and body components by means of the walls of the conical pivot axis aperture of the door component interacting with the external conical bearing surface of the conical structural feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Rudolf Gruber
  • Patent number: 6648543
    Abstract: A flange (1) for a space vessel (2), which flange (1) is arranged so as to reduce a shock or impact wave that occurs upon the release of a coupling (5). The coupling (5) is intended to impart a radially inwardly acting force to hold together two separable space vessel parts (3, 4) via two flanges (1, 6) belonging to respective space vessel parts (3, 4). The first flange (1) comprises at least one weakened point (9) so that it has a substantially broken annular shape, in order to thus reduce its energy-absorbing capacity when it is bent inward by the force (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Saab Ericsson Space AB
    Inventor: Örjan Arulf
  • Patent number: 6581351
    Abstract: A flooring member comprising a top, a bottom, a first edge, a second edge, a tongue member configured to be received within a groove member of an adjacent flooring member, the tongue member extending generally perpendicular from the first edge and having a top surface and a bottom surface, the tongue member top surface is inclined away from the flooring member top at a first angle, the tongue member bottom surface is inclined toward said flooring member top at a second angle, the second angle being less than the first angle so that a gap resistant interconnection of the tongue within a groove of an adjacent flooring member is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: David C. DeVivi
  • Patent number: 6572480
    Abstract: A universal joint adapted to interconnect a pair of rotating shafts at an angle relative to one another including a first member and a second member wherein the first member has a first longitudinal axis and includes an elongated semi-spherical head having a plurality of circumferentially spaced and radially outward facing facets which are curved along the first longitudinal axis and the second member has a second longitudinal axis and includes a pocket adapted to receive the elongated head. The pocket further includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced and radially inward facing facets which correspond to the plurality of radially outward facing facets on the elongated head and are tapered relative to the second longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Hsin-Hong Huang
  • Patent number: 6564849
    Abstract: A handle for a tire bead breaking tool is disclosed, comprising an elongate shaft having a gripping portion, a shield portion, and a working portion at a forward end. The working portion is configured having an oblong cross-section comprising protruding opposite end surfaces and substantially less protruding opposite lateral surfaces disposed between the end surfaces. The lateral surfaces of the working portion extend along at least a portion of the gripping portion. The working portion of the handle is press fit into a circular bore of a tool head and contacts sidewalls defining the bore along the handle protruding end surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Summit Tool Company
    Inventor: John D. Kusner
  • Patent number: 6565280
    Abstract: A fastening mechanism for connecting a sports attachment to a shaft is provided. The fastening mechanism comprises an aperture formed in the shaft. A fastening member is mounted to the sports attachment with at least a portion of the fastening member receivable within the aperture. A biasing mechanism biases at least a portion of the fastening member in the aperture wherein the fastening member is releasably maintained within the aperture thereby releasably connecting the sports attachment to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Peter G. Post
  • Patent number: 6514005
    Abstract: A member coupling device is provided for use with a treatment apparatus which uses chemicals. The member coupling device is formed with a tapered hole including a tapered hole portion which diverges toward an opening. A tapered implant is inserted into the tapered hole from an enlarged side of the tapered hole portion and fitted therein. The implant includes a tapered portion in contact with the tapered hole portion, and a first thread formed on the tapered portion. With the implant fitted in the tapered hole, a member is placed in contact with the member coupling device. A second thread formed on a fastening member is engaged with the first thread of the implant in a screw coupling configuration to mount the member on the member coupling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeji Shiokawa, Mitsuya Mikawa, Toshimitsu Nakagawa
  • Patent number: 6413005
    Abstract: A fastener for securing objects to a slat floor, having a self-centering and self-aligning capability. A first embodiment comprises a body formed of a durable material and having a top surface, a lower surface, at least one side surface, and a central hole extending between the top surface and the lower surface. A second embodiment comprises a body formed of a durable material and having a top surface, a lower surface, at least one side surface, and a central hole extending between the top surface and the lower surface, wherein the top surface of the body has a flat central surface and two sloping upper surfaces starting adjacent to the flat central surface and angling downward toward either end of the body, and a lower fastener component that is coaxial with the central hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Wahoo Concrete Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Massie
  • Publication number: 20020081150
    Abstract: A screw compressor has an electric motor having a first output shaft; and two intermeshing rotors, one of which has a second output shaft substantially coaxial with the first output shaft; the first and the second output shaft being connected directly by a conical coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Pasqaule Patrizio Pellicano, Loredana Predieri
  • Patent number: 6406209
    Abstract: An upper lid alignment apparatus for hatchback reaction cabin includes at least three sets of mating members. Each mating member has a protruding active member located on a side wall of an upper lid and a receiving member located on a side wall of a table. The receiving member has a guide slope to guide the active member to slide and reset on an anchor spot on the receiving member. The upper lid hence may make closed contact with the table to form a sealed cabin for reaction process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Mosel Vitelic Inc.
    Inventors: Chin-Kun Liu, Pang-Cheng Liu, Tzu-Hsin Huang, Bruse Lee
  • Patent number: 6397548
    Abstract: A tongue and groove profile for a construction panel wherein the tongue protrudes and extends outwardly from a first edge of the panel to a head portion. A shoulder portion of the tongue has two radiused convex or concave sides which intersect and merge with the first edge of the panel. A groove is formed in a second edge of the panel and extends inwardly into the second edge forming a cavity. The groove has a head portion which extends into a neck which expands into a shoulder which has two radiused concave or convex sides so that the tongue will fit into the groove. The radiused sides expand to form an opening in the second edge of the panel. The tongue of one panel can fit in interlocking relationship into the a groove of a second panel to form a joint between the two panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: APA-The Engineered Wood Association
    Inventors: Michael L. Martin, Eugene E. Zellner
  • Patent number: 6398451
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for mounting a spring to a connecting arm forming a portion of a vehicle wheel suspension in which the apparatus includes a connector affixed to the end of the spring and disposed on one side of the connecting arm, a lock disposed on the other side of the connecting arm, and fasteners extending through the connecting arm for attaching the connector to the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Volvo Personvagnar AB
    Inventor: Sigvard Zetterström