Multiple Controlled Elements Patents (Class 74/471R)
- Fluid actuator (Class 74/473.11)
- Electrical actuator (Class 74/473.12)
- Occupant propelled vehicle (Class 74/473.13)
- Transmission controlled by flexible cable (Class 74/473.15)
- Foot operated (Class 74/473.16)
- Control convertible between automatic and manual operation (Class 74/473.18)
- Control of plural mechanisms (e.g., control of transmission and control of 4 - wheel drive) (Class 74/473.19)
- Restriction of shift, gear selection, or gear engagement (Class 74/473.21)
- having vibration damper (Class 74/473.29)
- Manually operated selector (e.g., remotely controlled device, lever, push button, rotary dial, etc.) (Class 74/473.3)
- Particular element (e.g., shift fork, template, etc.) (Class 74/473.36)
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Patent number: 6128971Abstract: A control device for a machine has a control lever operative to rotate about two axes. The control lever is rotatably mounted on a shaft within a frame and is in communication with a first rotation sensor to detect movement of the control lever about the first axis. A first pair of adjustable abutment members are operative to center the control lever within the frame. The control lever and frame are operative to rotate about the second axis. A second rotation sensor is operative to detect movement of the control lever about the second axis. A second pair of adjustable abutment members are operative to center the control lever and frame within a stationary housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Stamos I. Papasideris
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Patent number: 6128970Abstract: A manipulator having six degrees of freedom includes a moving plate having six moving points arranged with substantial equal angles therebetween, an upper fixed plate having six upper fixed points arranged with substantial equal angles therebetween, the upper fixed plate being positioned above the moving plate and being spaced apart from the moving plate, a lower fixed plate having six lower fixed points arranged with substantial equal angles therebetween, the lower fixed plate being positioned under the moving plate and being spaced apart from the moving plate.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1996Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: Daewoo Electroniccs Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jeong-Tae Kim
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Multi-functional apparatus employing an electro-magnetic device and an intermittent motion mechanism
Patent number: 6116110Abstract: A multi-functional apparatus employs an electromagnetic device. The electromagnetic device selectively causes movement of an intermittent motion mechanism thereby moving a mechanical device coupled thereto. In another aspect of the present invention, a single electric motor selectively actuates three intermittent motion mechanisms thereby causing three mechanical devices coupled thereto to operate. In a further aspect of the present invention, a clutch mechanism selectively drives a window wiper. A method for operating the multi-functional apparatus of the present invention is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1997Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc.Inventors: H. Winston Maue, Eric J. Krupp -
Patent number: 6079794Abstract: A brake actuating device for a parking brake of automotive vehicles includes a hand brake lever which acts upon two wheel brakes by way of two brake cables. To assist the manual operation, an electric motor is additionally provided which generates at least part of the actuating force.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Peter Drott
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Patent number: 6065365Abstract: A control lever assembly for generating an electrical signal representative of the position of a linearly-moveable control lever which extends through an elongated passage in a console cover includes a control lever guide rotatably mounted to a bracket beneath the console cover. An arm projecting above the console cover is provided for moving the guide between rotational positions. The guide has an opening with slots of predetermined length associated with the rotational positions which define ranges of linear movement of the control lever. The movement of the control lever causes a sensing circuit to generate the electrical signal representative of the position of the control lever. The assembly also includes a switch actuated by a cam on an end of the guide depending upon the rotational position of the guide. The assembly also includes detent mechanisms for releasably retaining the control lever and the guide in various detent positions.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Case CorporationInventors: William L. Ostler, Hermann H. Regep, Darrel J. Svendsen, Patrick M. Lourigan, Ted W. Gregory, William L. Christopher
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Patent number: 6021690Abstract: An operational control for use with a ventilation, heating, or air conditioning unit of a vehicle, that can be actuated by a turn knob comprises: a guide member for being attached to and manipulated by a turn knob, the guide member defining a guiding groove; an adjusting lever for actuating a Bowden cable to which the adjusting lever is linked, the adjusting lever being mounted adjacent the guide member to pivot; a guide pin attached to the adjusting lever for extending into the guiding groove for cooperating with the guiding groove to cause the adjusting lever to pivot when the guide member is manipulated. The adjusting lever is made of a material that can be welded to steel and the guide pin is a weld-on steel ball welded to the adjusting lever.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: Preh-Werke GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Karl-Heinz Bauer, Joachim Storath, Gerold Eckert
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Patent number: 6014908Abstract: A manual shift lever connection mechanism for connecting a shift handle to the stub shaft of a transmission. The connection mechanism has a sleeve portion disposed about said stub shaft and an insert member for engaging the stub shaft disposed within said sleeve portion. The insert member further has an engagement mechanism for engaging a disassembly tool.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventor: Matthew E. Klais
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Patent number: 6003401Abstract: A self-propelled floor covering scraper machine including a frame having front and back ends, two independently controllable wheels, mounted on each side toward the back end of the frame, mechanisms for independently driving each wheel in either a forward or reverse direction, a control mechanism for steering the machine, engaging the driving mechanisms, and controlling the forward and reverse movement of each wheel, and a scraper blade mounted to the front end of the frame at an angle extending downward and forward. The adjustable scraper blade assembly includes a blade bracket, a generally flat scraper blade attachable to the blade bracket, and a shock absorber for the blade during use. The mechanism for controlling the steering and the forward and reverse movement of the vehicle uses a horizontal crossbar rotatably connected at each end to a support on the vehicle. The crossbar's axis of rotation is perpendicular to the forward motion of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1998Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Marcor Management, Inc.Inventor: Mark C. Smith
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Patent number: 5979255Abstract: An intermittent rotary motion mechanism for use in an automotive vehicle includes an electromagnetic device, a member moving in response to selective energization of the electromagnetic device, an intermittent motion mechanism and a window wiper shaft coupled to the intermittent motion mechanism. The intermittent motion mechanism moves the wiper shaft in a first wiping positional range when the electromagnetic device moves the member a first predetermined amount. The intermittent motion mechanism further moves the wiper shaft to a park position when the electromagnetic device moves the member a second predetermined amount in a first direction. The wiper shaft is mechanically deterred from movement from the park position concurrently with the electromagnetic device further moving the member past the second predetermined amount in the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc.Inventors: Shuxian Huang, Petre Dan
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Patent number: 5924324Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, the preferred embodiment of a movable gear drive windshield wiper apparatus employs an axial motion mechanism and a bidirectional driving mechanism. Rotation of a rotatable member in a first direction causes a transverse movement of the rotatable member along a ball screw shaft of the axial motion mechanism to a first position where it rotates in a given plane. Rotation of the rotatable member in the opposite direction causes the rotatable member to move down the ball screw shaft to a second position where it rotates in a second given plane. In another aspect of the present invention, the bi-directional driving mechanism rotationally drives a driven member such that the driven member is oscillated by continuously rotating the rotatable member in the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.Inventors: Daniel D. Kilker, Scott Morris
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Patent number: 5916327Abstract: A multi-functional apparatus employs an electromagnetic device. The electromagnetic device selectively causes movement of an intermittent motion mechanism thereby moving a mechanical device coupled thereto. A main driving gear is rotated from the wiper positional range in either direction to access one or another adjacent release positional range, but not necessarily both at the same time.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.Inventors: H. Winston Maue, Eric J. Krupp
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Patent number: 5889341Abstract: A multi-functional automotive vehicle apparatus is described which employs a linear motor to wipe a window in a linear reciprocating manner. The linear motor is capable of selectively actuating three intermittent motion mechanisms, such as a window wiper assembly, a window release latch mechanism, and a liftgate unlock/lock mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1997Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.Inventor: Daniel D. Kilker
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Patent number: 5857492Abstract: A manually operable control device, such as a joystick, includes a plurality of actuators for operating hydraulic valves of a machine. A handle has a sphere received within a cavity formed between a pair of seat portions which are moveable with respect to each other. The handle produces movement of at least one of the plurality of actuators when the sphere is pivoted within the cavity. An electromagnetic coil generates a magnetic field that causes the seat portions to be attracted toward each other which increases friction between the sphere and the seat. A control circuit applies electric current to the electromagnetic coil whenever the machine is turned on and disconnects the electric current when the machine is turned off. The friction between the sphere and the seat holds the control device in an operating position set by the machine operator and springs return the control device to a neutral position when the machine is turned off.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1998Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignee: HUSCO International, Inc.Inventor: Charles P. Salamun
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Patent number: 5829315Abstract: Actuation apparatus for linearly engage and disengage pins respectively disposed along two predetermined (orthogonal) axes using a single actuator. The actuation apparatus comprises a housing and the actuator, which may comprise a DC torquer motor disposed in the housing. The actuator or motor has a threaded rotary shaft. A common plunger is coupled to the threaded rotary shaft that has an elevation ramp formed therein. Azimuth and elevation actuation pins are disposed along the predetermined axes within the housing that are moveable and extend outside the housing and retract into the housing when selectively actuated. Azimuth and elevation springs are disposed around the azimuth and elevation actuation pin. In a preferred embodiment, the pins are extendable into and removable from slots disposed in a moveable gimbal of a missile seeker, and locks an antenna disposed on the gimbal.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1996Date of Patent: November 3, 1998Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: John L. Polowchak, Michael A. Sandford, Daniel W. Brunton, Lewis P. Lane
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Patent number: 5813285Abstract: A manual transmission remotely controlled by a speed change lever comprises a transmission casing. A plurality of parallel fork shafts extend in the casing. A striking rod extends in the casing in parallel with the fork shafts. The striking rod is pivotal about an axis thereof to engage with selected one of the fork shafts, and slidable along the axis to axially move the selected fork shaft to a desired position thereby to engage a corresponding coupling sleeve with a desired gear. An input block is connected to the striking rod to move therewith. A remote controller mechanism is connected to the transmission casing, which transmits a select operation of the speed change lever to the input block to cause the pivoting movement of the striking rod about the axis thereof and transmits a shift operation of the speed change lever to the input block to cause the sliding movement of the striking rod along the axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tsutomu Niimi
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Patent number: 5809755Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop "wheelies" upon acceleration.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1997Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Wright Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: James D. Velke, William R. Wright
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Patent number: 5775764Abstract: In a wire type teleoperational system, a push-pull cable has a push-pull inner cable which is at one end connected to an operative portion, and the other end connected to a coupler. The push-pull cable further has a push-pull outer cable which encases the push-pull inner cable so that one end of the push-pull outer cable is connected to a guide member which movably supports the coupler. A pull cable has a pull inner cable which is at one end connected to a first operative portion, and at the other end connected to the coupler, and the pull cable further has a pull outer cable which encases the pull inner cable so that one end of the pull outer cable is connected to a displacement member which is movably connected to the guide member.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1996Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignee: Chuo Hatsujo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hideo Yamashita
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Patent number: 5755138Abstract: An electrical lever assembly includes a lever rockably supported on a main body, a rod vertically sliding with a disc provided on the lever, a potentiometer having a horizontally rotating shaft mounted on the lower surface of the main body, and an arm connecting the potentiometer and the rod. The potentiometer is mounted on the lower surface of the main body in a condition adjustable with respect to a position in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1996Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Masayoshi Mototani, Seita Hayashi
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Patent number: 5738610Abstract: A hand-controlled accelerator for automobiles including an inner tubular member formed with a spiral projection on an outer surface thereof and an enlarged base at a lower end thereof, an accelerating cable having an upper end fastened in the base, a brake cable having an upper end fastened in the base, an intermediate tubular member in which is fitted the inner tubular member, a handle having a tubular neck at a lower portion thereof, an outer tubular member in which is fitted the intermediate tubular, and an annular ring-like member having two opposite threaded holes in each of which is arranged a steel ball, a spring having an end bearing against the steel ball, and a screw bearing against another end of the spring, whereby the hand-controlled accelerator for automobiles can prevent the driver from mistakenly depressing the accelerator pedal when desired to apply brake.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1996Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Inventor: Ching Hsiung Hung
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Patent number: 5701967Abstract: A cable control lever apparatus is provided for use in a walk-behind lawnmower. The lawnmower includes a mower deck, a handle bar connected to the deck for permitting walk-behind operation of the mower, and a pair of control cables supported for translational movement relative to the handle bar. The handle bar including a pair of laterally spaced side arms, and an end bar extending between the side arms and connecting them together. Each side arm includes a transverse hole aligned with the hole in the other arm for receiving a bail formed of a shape corresponding to the shape of the handle bar. The bail includes opposed out-turned ends sized for receipt in the holes in the handle bar to permit relative pivotal movement of the bail between a non-actuated position spaced from the end bar of the handle bar and an actuated position against the end bar. The bail is connected to one of the cables so that movement of the bail is transmitted to the cable.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1996Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Wescon Products CompanyInventor: Michael A. Barnard
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Patent number: 5694812Abstract: A multi-functional apparatus employs an electromagnetic device. The electromagnetic device selectively causes movement of an intermittent motion mechanism thereby moving a mechanical device coupled thereto. In another aspect of the present invention, a single electric motor selectively actuates three intermittent motion mechanisms thereby causing three mechanical devices coupled thereto to operate. In a further aspect of the present invention, a clutch mechanism selectively drives a window wiper. A method for operating the multi-functional apparatus of the present invention is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1995Date of Patent: December 9, 1997Assignee: United Technologies Automotive, Inc.Inventors: H. Winston Maue, Eric J. Krupp
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Patent number: 5692541Abstract: The present invention includes a single joystick for the simultaneous control of three spool valves for use on a construction machine. A first portion of the joystick is moved in a first direction which causes a cam to selectively depress a first pair of plungers to control the first spool valve. Movement of the first portion in the second direction causes the cam to selectively depress a second pair of plungers thereby controlling the movement of the second spool valve. A handle of a second portion of the joystick rotates about an axis causing a plate to rotate in a corresponding manner. The corresponding rotation of the plate causes a link member to rotate about the axis causing a pair of lugs to selectively depress a third pair of plungers to control the third spool valve. The mechanism for depressing the third plungers works independently of the position of the first portion so that the control of the third spool valve is independent of the control of the first and second spool valves.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1996Date of Patent: December 2, 1997Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: David J. Brown
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Patent number: 5680797Abstract: A manual control appliance with includes a control lever mounted in a bearing for pivotal movement about a fixed point, converter devices coupled to the lever for converting deflections of the lever with respect to two orthogonal axes into electrical output signals proportional to the deflection of the lever with respect to each of the axes, and a preshaped part having a surface in the form of a spherical section and provided with a plurality of detent grooves which cooperate with a slider at a lower end of the lever. The slider cooperates with the detent grooves in such a manner as to transmit to a user a tactily perceivable sensation each time said lower tip moves across a detent groove in order to provide tactile information about stepped portions of said control lever without affecting operation of said converter means and without limiting pivotal movement of said control lever.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: NBB Machrichtentechnik GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Fabian Elsasser
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Patent number: 5660081Abstract: An operating member and relay operating member are interconnected through a driving cable. Inserted through the relay operating member are an inner cable portion of a first driven cable adapted to engage the relay operating member only upon movement of the latter in one direction, and an inner cable portion of a second driven cable adapted to engage the relay operating member only upon movement of the latter in the other direction. Thus, operating forces alternately applied to the operating member in two directions are efficiently transferred individually to two driven portions through the single driving cable and the two driven cables to reliably operate the driven portions.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshikazu Sato
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Patent number: 5655414Abstract: An assembly for actuating a cable, and a release mechanism connected to one end of the cable, includes a substantially flat plate with first and second connecting portions bent at a right angle to the plate. The plate has a plurality of through holes and threaded devices which are used to connect the plate to a wall portion of a machine. An actuating lever is connected to the center portion of the plate and a cable assembly is connected to one of the connecting portions with a cable connected to the actuating lever. The actuating assembly is adapted to move the cable for releasing a latch mechanism from a position remote from the latch mechanism. The latch mechanism holds a door of a machine in an open position and the actuating assembly releases the latch mechanism from ground level without having to enter the machine.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1996Date of Patent: August 12, 1997Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: James D. Brewer, Alan A. Davidovich
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Patent number: 5602569Abstract: A controller includes a housing in which a containing portion (102) which is provided with recess supporting portions (151) on its both inner side surfaces. A shaft (152) of a rotator (153) is off-centered and supported by the supporting portions (151) in a point-contact manner. A plurality of slits (155) are formed on the rotator (153) so as to form a concentric circle with the shaft (152) as a center. Two optical sensors (156, 157; 158, 159) detect the slits at positions different from each other. On the basis of outputs of the optical sensors (157, 159), a lean angle and a leaned direction of the housing which is leaned by an operator are detected. Therefore, an image generating apparatus changes image data so as to cause an image to change according to the lean angle and the leaned direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1995Date of Patent: February 11, 1997Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shuhei Kato
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Patent number: 5590041Abstract: A system and process for controlling the steering of a track trencher excavation machine includes a multiple mode steering control that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A computer modifies the functions of the multiple mode steering control depending on a selected operational mode, and coordinates propulsion of the track drives of a track trencher to effect steering changes of the track trencher in response to signals produced by the steering control.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1994Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Mark R. Cooper
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Patent number: 5579872Abstract: A bicycle brake device comprises a rotating device, a rotating shaft and a pair of pintles. Two recesses are formed on the rotating device to receive the heads of the front and rear brake lines, respectively. The rotating device has two chambers defined by two corresponding flanges of the rotating device. The first and second pintles are on the corresponding chambers, respectively. Each pintle has a slot and a circular hole at each of a top end and a bottom end of the pintle. The bottom circular hole receives hollow cylinder post. A hollow screw which has a through hole passes through the bottom slot and the hollow cylinder post. The first and second brake control lines pass through the corresponding through holes, respectively. One end of the first or second brake control line is positioned by the positioning hole of the screw bolt. The screw bolt passes through a washer, a nut, and the through hole. The springs are disposed between the corresponding pintles and the rotor.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1995Date of Patent: December 3, 1996Inventor: Tsung-I Chen
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Patent number: 5448974Abstract: An engine output control system incorporating two separate members that control engine output such as a throttle valve and fuel injection control, EGR control, secondary air control and/or spark advance control. A mechanism is provided for operating these members so that one of the speed control members (the throttle valve) is moved to its fully opened position before the operator controlled member is fully opened. Further power outputs are achieved by moving the other engine output controlling member to its extreme position so as to permit operation of lean burn at intermediate ranges without sacrificing maximum engine power output.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1994Date of Patent: September 12, 1995Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Atsushi Toda
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Patent number: 5431255Abstract: A braking device for bicycle provided with two wire brake systems is disclosed. There is provided a relay amid outer tubes of both brakes to which divided ends of the outer tubes are connected and both continuous brake wires are fixed together inside the relay after individual adjustment. It is then possible to actuate the two brake systems simultaneously by manipulation of either brake lever and proper adjustment is feasible with ease for it can be done independently before fixing of both wires.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1994Date of Patent: July 11, 1995Inventor: Kimihiro Tsuchie
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Patent number: 5427336Abstract: A control mechanism for aircraft having a vertically extending, short stub with a cross bar attached to its upper end and a pair of arcuate lower members extending from the cross bar toward the forward end of the aircraft with an adjustable positioning arm on each lower member extending rearwardly and which mounts a hand grip for controlling the aircraft. In a single control mechanism, one arcuate lower member is attached directly to the stub.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1993Date of Patent: June 27, 1995Inventors: Matthew K. Haggerty, Clay A. Burns
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Patent number: 5390943Abstract: A hand brake apparatus for installation on handtrucks of the type which have a load bearing platform and vertical load supporting frame with at least two fixed parallel wheels. An embodiment of the invention includes a single brake actuating lever which operates the two brake mechanisms simultaneously. The brake mechanisms include a band type brake shoe which acts upon a cylindrical brake drum attached to the hub of each wheel. The brake mechanisms are operated by force applied to one compression cable which extends from the brake actuating handle to a brake actuating lever.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Inventor: Hal T. Hedrick
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Patent number: 5244066Abstract: Control consoles are normally utilized to provide ready access to the operator of the controls necessary to perform the various operating functions of the vehicle. Since vehicles, such as construction vehicles, are traversing rough terrain, it is advantageous to stabilize movement of the hand of the operator relative to the controls of the vehicle. In this subject arrangement a control console assembly is provided and has a handrest located thereon. The handrest is adapted to receive the hand of the operator such that the heel of the operator's hand remains in intimate contact with a raised portion of the handrest. A pair of levers are mounted on the control console assembly adjacent the handrest and operatively actuated by the fingertips of the operator's hand. A rotary knob is oriented on the side of the handrest and operative to be rotated by the thumb of the operator's hand.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1992Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: John P. Mackoway, Phillip P. Kartcheske
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Patent number: 5228548Abstract: One-lever control with clutch and throttle function for marine power plants. The control lever (7) is solidly joined to a rotatable cam element (8) which actuates electrical switch (10, 11), which are connected to an electrical servo motor (S) to control the forward-reverse clutch function. A link arm (13) is pivotally joined to the cam element and a rocking lever (15) connected to a throttle control cable. The pivot joints (a, b) of the link arm and the center of rotation (c) of the cam element are arranged so that they lie on a common straight line (d) when the control lever is in the neutral position.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1992Date of Patent: July 20, 1993Assignee: AB Volvo PentaInventor: Stig F. Bohlin
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Patent number: 5224592Abstract: The disclosure relates to high-voltage change-over switches that are used to apply high voltage alternately to two X-ray tubes. Each of the four switch devices constituting a change-over switch includes a fixed contact element connected to an input terminal of the high voltage and a movable contact element connected to an output terminal by a curved, flexible strip, the shifting of which is obtained by a hinged arm that is actuated by an insulator sleeve surrounding the strip. The rotation of the sleeve in one direction causes contact through a hole in the wall of the sleeve while rotation in the reverse direction causes the contact elements to move away from each other and gives rise to the interposition of the insulator wall between the contact elements at a distance. The disclosed device can be applied to radiology installations.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1992Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Assignee: General Electric CGR S.A.Inventors: Hans Jedlitschka, Jacques Sireul
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Patent number: 5218879Abstract: A lost motion drive assembly has a base mounting upper and lower levers which connect to the louvers of an air plenum, such as in an automobile's ventilation system. A user turns a knob between a plurality of selections, causing a gear-operated actuator to rotate. A clutch mechanism operable between the actuator and levers engages the lower lever to drive it one way in response to rotation of the knob. Upon continued rotation of the knob, a drive lug on the actuator engages the upper lever to drive it the same way while the clutch disengages from the actuator and holds the lower lever fixed. Reverse motion is obtained when the clutch engages the actuator and upper lever, after which it releases the actuator and a second drive lug engages the lower lever to return it to its starting position.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1991Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Assignee: Lake Center Industries, Inc.Inventor: Rick D. Lyons
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Patent number: 5197347Abstract: A control system including interfaced hand and foot control assemblies for independently conditioning an off-highway implement by selectively positioning a regulator thereof relative a neutral position. The hand and foot control assemblies utilize a common force transfer mechanism in the form of a push/pull cable for moving and positioning the regulator. The foot control assembly includes a self-centered foot pedal and linkages for arranging the push/pull cable relative to the regulator in a manner inhibiting binding forces from being imparted to the cable. The hand control assembly requires independent movement of a control lever in two different planes to shift the hand control assembly from a neutral condition. Moreover, the hand control assembly is isolated from spring forces acting to self center the foot pedal and thus requires low operator efforts to adjust the position of the regulator. The control system of the present invention further includes a mechanism for governing operation of the regulator.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1992Date of Patent: March 30, 1993Assignee: Case CorporationInventors: John M. Moffitt, Marvin L. Morris, David E. Johnson
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Patent number: 5180050Abstract: A switch actuator mounted in a housing for axial and rotary movement operates a rotary switch on the actuator axis through an axial lost motion connection. A pushbutton switch offset from the axis is engaged by a semi-circular plate radially extending from the actuator and is actuated upon axial movement of the actuator for any rotary position of the actuator. Optionally, the plate has apertures which register with the pushbutton switch at selected actuator rotary positions to disable pushbutton operation at the selected positions. The actuator is made of light conducting transparent plastic to illuminate an indicator on the switch knob from a bulb within the housing. A flexible detent finger integrally molded into the housing engages the plate during its axial movement to impart tactile feel.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1991Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Assignee: Delco Electronics CorporationInventors: Mark Z. Rada, John W. Willis, John A. Eade, Charles E. Kidwell
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Patent number: 5180037Abstract: For a vehicle having a relatively large axle tube, a mechanically operated drum brake is provided having a hollow abutment post between adjacent ends of a pair of opposed arcuate brake shoes and having an improved actuating mechanism for the brake shoes mounted partially within the abutment post.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1991Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Assignee: Kelsey-Hayes CompanyInventor: Anthony C. Evans
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Patent number: 5142934Abstract: A control device on a chain saw, for example, a gas control, consisting of a finger grip (12) and a lever (11) (snapped together) to which the cable and the sheath of a Bowden cable (10) are attached, respectively. The other end of the sheath is fastened to the base of a carburetor compartment. When the grip and the lever move upwards, the rear end (28) of the lever hits a fulcrum (20) in the handle. The grip can continue upwards due to a guide point between the lever and the grip and, thus, the wire is moved in relation to the sheath so that a gas lever (13) of the carburetor is tuned. The sheath, consisting of a spirally wound steel wire, is tightly wound, but has also a short length (31) being sparsely wound as a pressure spring and provides an overload protection preventing the cable from breaking.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1990Date of Patent: September 1, 1992Assignee: Aktiebolaget ElectroluxInventors: Magnus T. J. Persson, Hans P. Lindblad, Kenneth R. Skogward
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Patent number: 5138756Abstract: A control mechanism for operating a backhoe is disclosed wherein the controls are adaptable to be configured in a selected one of a two lever system, a three lever system, or a four lever system. The control mechanism includes a first pivot axis on which the control levers are pivotally mounted and a second pivot axis on which a series of bell cranks are pivotally mounted. Various linkages interconnect the control levers with the bell cranks, and the bell cranks with hydraulic valve spools in a manner in which the valve body does not have to be reconfigured depending upon which control system is utilized. The control levers are configured with a pivot casting having a bent control rod threadably received therein, the position of which is fixed by a lock nut permitting the control handle to be positioned in the orientation desired by the operator.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1991Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Assignee: Ford New Holland, Inc.Inventors: Russell I. Johnson, Garry L. Ball, John O. Steinkamp
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Patent number: 5097628Abstract: A valve operating structure for a working vehicle having different control valves with slide spools extending parallel to each other. A control lever is operatively connected to an interlocking member for selectively operating the control valves. The valve operating structure comprises an interlock switching mechanism for moving the interlocking member between a position to engage one slide spool and a position to engage another slide spool. The interlocking member is pivotable about a point located at substantially the same distance to the two spools, with a free end thereof extending to a position between the spools. The two interlocking positions are selectively provided by connecting the free end to one of the spools.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1989Date of Patent: March 24, 1992Assignee: Kubota, Ltd.Inventor: Masahiko Kobayashi
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Patent number: 5056985Abstract: A control mechanism for operating a backhoe is disclosed wherein the controls are adaptable to be configured in a selected one of a two lever system, a three lever system, or a four lever system. The control mechanism includes a first pivot axis on which the control levers are pivotally mounted and a second pivot axis on which a series of bell cranks are pivotally mounted. Various linkages interconnect the control levers with the bell cranks, and the bell cranks with hydraulic valve spools in a manner in which the valve body does not have to be reconfigured depending upon which the control system is utilized. The control levers are configured with a pivot casting having a bent control rod threadably received therein, the position of which is fixed by a lock nut permitting the control handle to be positioned in the orientation desired by the operator.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1989Date of Patent: October 15, 1991Assignee: Ford New Holland, Inc.Inventors: Russell I. Johnson, Garry L. Ball, John O. Steinkamp
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Patent number: 4993509Abstract: A vehicle hand control device operable to control the brake pedal or accelerator pedal of a motor vehicle. The device includes an elongated support tube connectable to and along the steering column of the vehicle, a control arm tube pivotally connected at one end to, and extending from, the upper end of the support tube, and a slender, elongated control arm mounted for rotation only within the control arm tube. The control arm includes an elongated handle extending from one end of the control arm, the handle preferably having its longitudinal axis disposed from the longitudinal axis of the control arm. A control arm lever is connected at the other end of the control arm which also extends somewhat beyond the end of the control arm tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1990Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Inventor: Keith Howell
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Patent number: 4953421Abstract: A power-transmission joint for manual transmissions in motor vehicles for insertion intermediate a drive shaft and a shift rod of said transmission, having a box-like cage forming a frame with a sliding block fixedly arranged in the cage. The sliding block has a central bore therethrough for receipt of a steering journal, and is held in a retaining member which engages the cage in a resilient manner to allow for longitudinal displacement and a predefined rotational movement of the sliding block.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 1989Date of Patent: September 4, 1990Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventors: Michael Engel, Karl-Heinz Pepping, Gunther Gebhardt
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Patent number: 4951520Abstract: A single lever control comprising a housing having a first recess, a shaft pivotably supported by the housing and having an axial bore, a shift member pivotably supported by the housing coaxially with the shaft and adapted to be operably connected to a clutch, the shift member being movable relative to a neutral position and having a second recess located radially inwardly of the first recess and aligned with the first recess when the shift member is in the neutral position, a plunger housed in the bore for movement axially of the shaft between first and second positions, and a mechanism for fixing the shift member to the shaft and permitting rotation of the shift member relative to the housing when the plunger is in the first position, and for fixing the shift member to the housing and permitting rotation of the shaft relative to the shift member when the plunger is in the second position, the mechanism including a member at least partially housed in the second recess, and a mechanism for moving the member rType: GrantFiled: November 17, 1988Date of Patent: August 28, 1990Assignee: Outboard Marine CorporationInventor: Anthony P. Prince
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Patent number: 4917418Abstract: A fuel filler door release system comprising a spring loaded fuel filler door, a latch normally holding the door closed, and a fuel filler door release device including a first strand connected at one end to a remote manually operated lever and releasably connected at the other end to a spring loaded plunger of the release device. A second strand is releasably connected to the plunger and extends to the latch of the fuel filler door. A third strand is connected to the plunger and extends to a pull tab within the vehicle for providing auxiliary release for the fuel filler door.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1988Date of Patent: April 17, 1990Assignee: Babcock Industries Inc.Inventor: Donald J. Gokee
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Patent number: 4907970Abstract: A simulator handgrip is connected to the shaft of a slip clutch which offers resistance to handgrip displacement, thereby simulating the "feel" of an actual thrust control for aircraft. Linkages are provided for measuring the amount of handgrip displacement as an electrical signal that may be utilized by a simulator computer. Adjustment devices are provided for moving the handgrip and clutch devices along a diagonal direction to accommodate pilots of different height.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1988Date of Patent: March 13, 1990Assignee: Grumman Aerospace CorporationInventor: Raymond P. Meenen, Jr.
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Patent number: 4903943Abstract: A housing for a discharge valve includes a hollow cylindrial socket which projects in the radial direction, and in which a siphon an actuating pin for control of the valve stopper is mounted in a leakproof manner in a ball-and-socket joint arrangement. A spherical part enclosing an intermediate portion of the actuating pin is received in a ball socket recess in a holding element, which is snapped onto the socket in a leakproof manner. The ball socket recess has on the outer side a spheri-zone type sealing surface on which an O-ring slides. A set of fingers of the holding element partially enclose the spherical part and press it with a specific force against the sealing surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1989Date of Patent: February 27, 1990Assignee: KWC AGInventor: Ferdinand Hochstrasser
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Patent number: 4899979Abstract: A valve assembly has a valve lid assembly which can be fitted in sealing relation on a valve seat, an over-center device can serve to force the lid on to the seat; a drive shaft connected to the lid assembly and drive means for rotating the shaft to open and close the valve seat, the over-center device serving to oppose rotation of the shaft up to a critical position whereupon the device assists in rotation of the shaft to open the valve seat.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1988Date of Patent: February 13, 1990Assignee: Davy McKee (Stockton) LimitedInventor: George W. Stamp