Knob Or Dial Patents (Class 74/553)
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Patent number: 8662102Abstract: A gas appliance including a frame and a control knob assembly connected to the frame, the control knob assembly including a gas valve with a valve stem, a control knob attached to the valve stem, and a valve restraint. The valve restraint is substantially fixed relative to the frame and longitudinally disposed substantially between the gas valve and control knob, and is configured to limit lateral movement of the valve stem.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Timothy Scott Shaffer, Howard Richard Bowles, Jorge Hinojosa
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Publication number: 20140047943Abstract: The present invention relates to a household appliance (1) comprising a control panel (4) that has a front plate (2) and a rear plate (3) adjacent to each other placed one in front of the other, a knob hole (5) that is located on the control panel (4), a retractable and rotary knob (6) that moves inside the knob hole (5) and a bearing (7) that is disposed into the knob hole (5) and supports the knob (6) so that the knob (6) slidably move therein by surrounding the knob (6), and wherein the knob (6) is provided to operate silently inside the bearing (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2011Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventors: Ugur Camli, Mehmet Baris Gocer
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Publication number: 20140047944Abstract: The present invention relates to a household appliance (1) comprising a control panel (2), a push-pull type and rotary knob (3) which is disposed to the control panel (2), a casing (5) which is produced from plastic, fixed to the back side of the control panel (2) and which forms a housing for the knob (3), and which has a cylindrical side wall (4), more than one light source (8) which provides the periphery of the knob (3) to be illuminated by emitting light, a printed circuit board (9) whereon the light sources (8) are integrated and a light guide (14) which transmits the light received from the light sources (8) to the periphery of the knob (3).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2011Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: ARCELIK ANONIM SIRKETIInventors: Ugur Camli, Mehmet Baris Gocer
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Publication number: 20140033857Abstract: A user control knob retention system includes a nut (20) which has a base (25). The base includes two opposing nut end faces (23a, 23b), and a threaded bore (21) aligned with a base central axis (29). A wall (27) extends transversely from a first one of the nut end faces. The wall defines an inner surface (42) which comprises a circular arc coaxial with the central axis. The wall extends at least partially around a circumference of the base to define a capture space (26). An insert (30) rotatably retained within the capture space includes a body having a cylindrical shape. A retention barb (34) disposed on an outer cylindrical surface of the insert is configured for engaging an interlocking element (54) formed on an interior bore (58) of a user control knob (50).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: HARRIS CORPORATIONInventors: Richard S. Currier, David Cipolla, Jose R. Duran, Jason Scott
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Publication number: 20140013897Abstract: An operating element for a domestic appliance includes a main body which is made of a material comprised of plastic and a filler admixed to the plastic. The filler has a thermal conductivity which is higher than a thermal conductivity of the plastic. The filler can be present in particle form, e.g. as spheres, grains, fibers or as powder.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERÄTE GMBHInventors: Stéphane Clauss, Martin Oberhomburg
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Patent number: 8613238Abstract: A control knob for a vehicle has an improved outward appearance by forming a boundary line between two different materials in a portion that is not visible and preventing abrupt differences in color due to light refraction. The control knob is produced by dual injection molding of two different materials, is installed on one end of a shift lever, and functions as a handgrip. The control knob includes an portion of opaque and transparent materials, an overlapping portion opaque and transparent materials, and a coated portion formed of paint applied to portions of the transparent portion that do not overlap with the opaque portion. A boundary surface between the opaque and transparent portions is such that a refractive index of light passing through the transparent portion from the overlapping portion is close to a refractive index of light passing through the transparent portion from the coated portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2012Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Joon Young Park, Chang Hyun Lee
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Patent number: 8578815Abstract: A switch for a vehicle includes: a first operating member provided on a mounting surface of the vehicle, the first operating member being operable by tilting; and a plurality of projections provided on the first operating member, the projections being operable by pushing, wherein the first operating member is shaped line symmetrically so that a central part of the first operating member is dented most; and the projection projects forward with respect to the central part of the first operating member, and the projection is uplifted along an outer wall part of the first operating member.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kaneaki Hashimoto, Masaaki Abe, Sadahiro Yokoyama
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Patent number: 8573092Abstract: Disclosed is a rotating actuator with a variable latching profile, the rotating actuator having a housing, a rotary knob and a rotary shaft connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the rotary knob, and also at least two latching contours connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the rotary shaft, one support per latching contour, on which support at least one latching element is arranged, the latching element engaging in the latching contour assigned to the support, and which support is mounted rotatably about the rotary shaft, and at least one locking device per support, by means of which the support can be locked relative to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2008Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Preh GmbHInventor: Andreas Kramlich
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Publication number: 20130276572Abstract: A rotary/push operating device (10) for a man-machine interface, in particular for an operating unit of a vehicle, comprises a manually operable rotary/push element (12) which can be rotated about a rotational axis (15) and which can be pushed down in the direction of the rotational axis (15), and a rolling-body bearing (14) which defines the rotational axis (15) and which comprises a immobile bearing ring (18), a movable bearing ring (20), and a rolling-body cage (22) arranged between said bearing rings. The rotary/push element (12) is coupled to the movable bearing ring (20) in such a manner that the rotary/push element (12) will move together with the movable bearing ring (20) when, during rotation of the rotary/push element (12), the movable bearing ring (20) rotates or is axially moved in the direction of the rotational axis (15). The rolling-body cage (22) comprises a plurality of rolling bodies (24) arranged in at least one radial plane of the rolling-body cage (22).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2011Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventor: Frank Vogt
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Patent number: 8534160Abstract: A retractable control device for a household electrical appliance includes a knob movable against an elastic member within an aperture or seat of a control interface of the appliance. The knob is configured to assume two working positions including a first position in which the knob is seated in the aperture and a second position in which the knob extends outwardly therefrom. The knob cooperates with a control member for a functional element of the appliance, such as an electrical resistance heater or microwave generator of an oven, or a gas burner of a cooking hob. The device also includes a cylindrical element disposed and fixed in the aperture of the control interface about the knob. The cylindrical element contains the knob when the knob is in its first position and guides its movement within the aperture along a central longitudinal axis thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2012Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Marco Giuliani, Michele Venezia, Tomasz Rydel, Marcin Mazurek, Sacha Mello
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Publication number: 20130228038Abstract: A panel for a domestic appliance having a rotary switch, the rotary switch having a rotary element, a latching ring, at least one latching element and a rotation axis about which the rotary element rotates relative to the latching ring, wherein the latching ring has at least one latching lug on its inner face, said latching lug projecting radially toward the center the latching ring, wherein the latching element is held on the rotary element and is prestressed radially outward against the inner face of the latching ring, wherein the rotary element and the latching ring are arranged along the rotation axis, and wherein the latching ring is arranged in a rotationally fixed manner on the panel. A corresponding domestic appliance having a panel is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: September 5, 2013Applicant: PAS DEUTSCHLAND GMBHInventor: Marek Klimecki
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Publication number: 20130205939Abstract: An interface for actuating a device is described. According to one aspect, an interface for actuating a device includes a boss member arranged to be extended from a shaft to receive a user's manipulation, wherein when the boss member receives the user's manipulation, the boss member is arranged to project the shaft to an actuating position arranged to actuate the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2012Publication date: August 15, 2013Inventor: Alexander Meerovitsch
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Publication number: 20130145896Abstract: A control knob for a vehicle has an improved outward appearance by forming a boundary line between two different materials in a portion that is not visible and preventing abrupt differences in color due to light refraction. The control knob is produced by dual injection molding of two different materials, is installed on one end of a shift lever, and functions as a handgrip. The control knob includes an portion of opaque and transparent materials, an overlapping portion opaque and transparent materials, and a coated portion formed of paint applied to portions of the transparent portion that do not overlap with the opaque portion. A boundary surface between the opaque and transparent portions is such that a refractive index of light passing through the transparent portion from the overlapping portion is close to a refractive index of light passing through the transparent portion from the coated portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2012Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicants: Kia Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Joon Young Park, Chang Hyun Lee
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Patent number: 8459146Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a dial control device having a maneuverability of a control knob improved by making this in cylindrical shape and downsized by disposing another control knob installed within the first-mentioned cylindrical control knob. A dial control device comprising: a cylindrical control knob, a sun gear rotating integrally with said control knob for transmission of a driving force from said control knob, a planet gear interlocking with said sun gear, an internal gear cooperating with said sun gear to guide said planet gear in a direction of its movement, and a control cable coupled to said planet gear so as to operate an external device, wherein said driving force generated by rotational operation of said control knob is transmitted via said sun gear, said planet gear and said control cable to the external device to control operation of said external device.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: U-Shin Ltd.Inventors: Kazunori Morizono, Makito Fukazawa, Yasuo Nemoto
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Patent number: 8434199Abstract: A knob safety assembly is operative to selectively restrict depression of a cooking element control knob. The safety assembly includes a blocking plate disposed inside of a bezel assembly. The bezel assembly includes an outer bezel defining one or more angled camming surfaces, and an inner bezel. Rotation of the inner bezel with respect to the outer bezel about a rotational axis slides an ear of the blocking plate along the camming surface to effect movement of the blocking plate along the rotational axis between a raised position, in which the blocking plate restricts depression of a cooking element control knob, to a recessed position, in which the blocking plate facilitates depression of the control knob. The inner bezel is releasably locked from rotating with respect to the outer bezel, and engages the blocking plate to constrain the blocking plate against movement along the rotational axis when locked.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2011Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Kidkusion, Inc.Inventors: Cynthia L. Bowen, Walter Lee Bowen
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Patent number: 8430460Abstract: A merchandiser includes a case defining a product display area, and a lid disposed over the product display area and substantially enclosing at least a portion of the product display area. The lid is movable between an open position providing access to the product display area and a closed position limiting access to the product display area. The merchandiser also includes a handle assembly that has a handle coupled to and rotatable relative to the lid as the lid moves between the open position and the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Hussmann CorporationInventors: Estefania Erro, Asier Esnal
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Patent number: 8336424Abstract: A control knob assembly includes a housing and a knob mounted for rotary motion on the housing about a pivot axis. A cursor is mounted on the knob and spaced from the pivot axis. The cursor moves in a circular path as the knob is rotated. The assembly further includes a plurality of sensors spaced in a linear arrangement along a linear axis. Each of the sensors generates a signal upon detection of the presence of the cursor when the cursor is adjacent the sensor as the cursor moves along its circular path. The signal is representative of an angular position of the knob relative to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Josep Jacas Miret, Alberto Garcia Briz
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Publication number: 20120318097Abstract: A vehicle control device, particularly for controlling an accelerating and braking vehicle system, comprises a knob, associated with a control member such as a handlebar or steering wheel, and including at least a circumferential recess housing herein an end portion of a brake control cable coupled to the vehicle braking system thereby, by turning clockwise the knob the vehicle braking system is operated, the knob further controlling the vehicle fuel supplying system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2010Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventor: Mauro Ricci
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Publication number: 20120272784Abstract: A selectable and interchangeable accessory insert system for an appliance is disclosed. The appliance includes at least a handle or a knob. The handle includes at least a base portion and a first insert, with the first insert being separable from the base portion. The base portion being sized to receive a second insert after the first insert is separated therefrom. In an appliance with multiple knobs or handles, each knob or handle can include exchangeable inserts to allow the inserts to be exchanged to have similar appearances or features.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2012Publication date: November 1, 2012Inventors: Brent Bailey, Curtis Joseph Vann, III, Matthew Ortner
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Method of calibrating a knob for use with an adjustable control device and a knob calibrated thereby
Patent number: 8292494Abstract: A method of calibrating an adjustable control device using a knob assembly with adjustable temperature scale. A knob and a bezel that bears the temperature scale are assembled and the temperature scale is calibrated without physically changing any internals within the adjustable control device. The knob and bezel are secured to the adjustable control device so that the knob and bezel assembly can transmit an input load from a user through to the adjustable control device and so that the bezel can be rotated relative to the knob which remains fixed to an input shaft of the control for calibration purposes.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2008Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Garland Commercial Industries LLCInventors: Paulo Jorge Rosa, David Popowich, Joseph Felix Scheuring, III -
Publication number: 20120241654Abstract: An ergonomic hand knob for a control valve includes a valve body and a plurality of flutes disposed in the valve body, each flute including a flute surface. Each flute is asymmetric with respect to an innermost point of the flute surface. A first flute surface has a greater slope than a second flute surface. The first flute surface lays in a direction of tightening from the innermost point and the second flute surface lays in a direction of loosening from the innermost point.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2011Publication date: September 27, 2012Applicant: TESCOM CORPORATIONInventor: Jason D. Clifford
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Publication number: 20120216653Abstract: A locking turret knob includes an adjustment member, a first member, and a second member. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about an axis of rotation. The first member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement member. The second member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement surface. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about the axis of rotation when each engagement member does not engage an engagement surface. The adjustment member is locked in a selected position about the axis of rotation when at least one engagement member engages an engagement surface. The adjustment member can be coupled to an adjuster of an optical enhancement device, such as a telescopic sight, a telescope or a microscope.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2011Publication date: August 30, 2012Inventor: Bernard T. Windauer
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Patent number: 8220361Abstract: A rotary knob assembly (100) includes a fixed raised boss (110) having a boss cavity (107) and a knob (102) optionally having a rotary switch stem (104) therein. The knob can include a portion that axially resides within the boss cavity such that impacts to the knob transfers to the fixed raised boss. The knob can further include a rigid core member (106) and an outer over-molded portion (108) over-molded on to the rigid core member. The fixed raised boss can include an outer circumference (118) and an inner circumference (116). The inner circumference of the boss and a portion of the rigid core member and the outer circumference of the boss and the outer mover-molded portion form a knob-boss interface (117) that sustains impacts to the rotary knob assembly while isolating a rotary switch (112) from impacts.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Motorola Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Jamie L. Slavin, Jody H. Akens, Scott H. Richards
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Patent number: 8205524Abstract: A torque limiting handle assembly is described. One member of a two member torque limiting handle assembly has resiliently depending legs extending about its rotational axis. The second member has features arranged such that on rotation of the first member, the features contact the legs so that when a reaction torque of the second member is less than a threshold value, the second member rotates with the first member and when a reaction torque of the second member is greater than the threshold value, the legs resiliently deflect so that the features simply pass across the legs and the second member does not rotate with the first member.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Leggett & Platt Canada Co.Inventor: Shaffeek A. Yusuf
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Publication number: 20120096981Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a dial control device having a maneuverability of a control knob improved by making this in cylindrical shape and downsized by disposing another control knob installed within the first-mentioned cylindrical control knob. A dial control device comprising: a cylindrical control knob, a sun gear rotating integrally with said control knob for transmission of a driving force from said control knob, a planet gear interlocking with said sun gear, an internal gear cooperating with said sun gear to guide said planet gear in a direction of its movement, and a control cable coupled to said planet gear so as to operate an external device, wherein said driving force generated by rotational operation of said control knob is transmitted via said sun gear, said planet gear and said control cable to the external device to control operation of said external device.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: U-SHIN LTDInventors: Kazunori MORIZONO, Makito FUKAZAWA, Yasuo NEMOTO
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Publication number: 20120042745Abstract: An operating control device for adjusting the power of a heating device has a rotary knob that has an off position in which said rotary knob is deactivated, and a working position into which said knob can be brought to adjust the power. The working position is predetermined by a lock-in position, and the rotary knob can be rotated over a working angle of a rotation range in at least one direction of rotation from the working position counter to a counterforce that rises as the angle of rotation increases. The operating control device can detect the angle of rotation and uses a control system of the operating control device for adjusting the power. The control system is configured in such a manner that the power is adjusted more rapidly as the angle of rotation increases.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: E.G.O. Elektro-Geratebau GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Alfred Hamm, Martin Baier
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Patent number: 8079287Abstract: An auto-alignable knob for a home appliance includes an offspring box self-connectable with a valve shaft. A mobile box has at least one lateral face including a pin. The mobile box is coupled to the offspring box to allow a free movement relative to one another along a first axis. A fixed box includes an indentation and a groove. The mobile box is insertable to the fixed box by insertion of the pin of the lateral face through the groove. The pin of the mobile box provides a respective degree of freedom to the mobile box relative to the indentation of the fixed box along at least a second axis normal to the first axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Mabe, S.A. de C.V.Inventor: Octavio Lugo Castillo
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Patent number: 8056441Abstract: A control knob device has a main body defining a top surface having a ring-shaped stopping wall with two inserting openings formed thereon, and a lateral surface having a guiding recess extending upwards and downwards and a sliding slot running circumferentially and communicating with the guiding recess, with the depth thereof greater than that of the guiding recess. A shell coupled to the main body has a covering plate with two blocking portions located outside the stopping wall and adjacent to the inserting openings, and a lateral plate extending inwards to form an inserting slice corresponding to the sliding slot. The shell is coupled to the main body by the inserting slice passing through the guiding recess and inserted into the sliding slot. Two elastic ends of a spring element are inserted into the inserting openings and abut against the blocking portions for making the rotated shell return automatically.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wen-Jen Lu
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Publication number: 20110242650Abstract: A turret knob comprises first and second adjustment members that are both adjustably positionable about an axis of rotation, and a slip/engagement member positioned between the first and the second adjustment members along the axis of rotation. The slip-engagement member is movable between three positions along the axis of rotation. In a first position, the slip-engagement member does not engage the first or the second adjustment members. In the second position, the slip/engagement member engages the first adjustment member to rotatably adjust only the first adjustable member about the axis of rotation as the slip/engagement member is rotated about the axis of rotation. In the third position, the slip/engagement member engages the second adjustable member to rotatably adjust only the second adjustable member about the axis of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2009Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventor: Bernard T. Windauer
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Patent number: 7997163Abstract: A novel, adjustable locking windage and elevation knob assembly for the improved accuracy of scopes wherein an adjustment turn knob may be raised from its locked position to rotate freely for desired windage or elevation adjustments and thereafter be pushed back down into a locked position.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2005Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Gamo Outdoor USA, Inc.Inventor: Juan Carlos Casas
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Patent number: 7966906Abstract: Three elements of a fluid flow control device—switch, button, label—are designed to minimize the possibility of two labeled buttons being swapped on their switches. If the parts are assembled incorrectly or mislabeled, or if the buttons are thereafter swapped on the switches, it will be very obvious; then, if one attempts to fix such a problem, it can only be fixed by placing the buttons on the correct switches, and it can not be fixed by leaving the buttons on the wrong switches.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLCInventors: Mark A. Bennett, Jeffrey M Geither
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Patent number: 7922342Abstract: A rotational member inhibitable from coming off a support member is obtained. This rotational member includes a rotational portion rotatably mounted on a support member, a pair of arcuate portions provided on a side of the rotational portion closer to the support member to extend from the rotational portion and opposed to each other and a hook portion so provided as to extend from a circumferential end of at least one of the pair of arcuate portions in an outward direction intersecting with a mounting direction for the rotational portion for engaging with the support member.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshiyuki Okada
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Patent number: 7908713Abstract: An operating knob to be attached to a supporting member includes an operating part and a connector. The connector is attached to the operating part and includes a fitting cylindrical portion, a stopper disposed at an inner circumferential side of the fitting cylindrical portion to protrude on a radial inside, and housing portion. When the operating part is applied with a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value from an exterior in a direction toward the supporting member in a state where a fitting portion of the supporting member is fitted into the fitting cylindrical portion, the stopper is bent from the radial inside to a direction approximately parallel to the rotation axis so as to be housed in the housing portion and the fitting cylindrical portion moves toward the supporting member along an outer circumference of the fitting portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Shinichi Yoshinaka, Hiroshi Mokudai, Takashi Kawaguchi
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Publication number: 20110061489Abstract: A rotary control knob apparatus includes a stationary knob retainer having a cylindrical post and an annular knob that slides over the retainer post, where the exterior periphery of the retainer post has a distributed array of compliant protrusions that contact the inner periphery of the knob to provide a resilient sliding interference fit between the knob and the retainer post. In a preferred arrangement, the retainer is secured against the rear surface of a control panel trimplate, and the knob is axially captured between the trimplate and a retainer flange extending radially outward from the base of the cylindrical post.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2009Publication date: March 17, 2011Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: David S. Bulin, Mark A. Gill, David J. Clute, Steven V. Netherton
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Patent number: 7870810Abstract: A rotary knob for an electrical system includes a body containing a rotary maneuvering member which actuates a cam-driving part and bears one or more electrical units. A cup is defined between an outer cylindrical flange of the body and an inner cylindrical sleeve, and contains a spring either of a helical type for urging a sliding ring separate from the driving part, or of a torsion type to return the maneuvering member. The ring provides a sensitivity function. The cylindrical sleeve defines in a central opening thereof a centering seat of the shank of the maneuvering member.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SASInventors: Hugues Da Dalt, Patrice Thizon, Bertrand Fruchard
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Publication number: 20100328273Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus comprises an assembly adapted to rotatably couple a first housing and a second housing, said assembly adapted to rotate said first housing and said second housing with respect to each other between a closed configuration and at least one open configuration, said assembly comprising an inner ring coupled with said first housing and an outer ring coupled with said second housing, said inner ring slidably coupled with said outer ring in a circumferential direction, said outer ring movable through a first opening in said first housing, said inner ring movable through a second opening in said second housing when said first housing and said second housing rotate with respect to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Applicant: NOKIA CORPORATIONInventor: Travis Tom
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Patent number: 7836791Abstract: A knob is attached to a distal end of a lever and has an approximately cylindrical knob body, a cap attached to a distal end of the knob body, and a metal-plated operating member attached to a side face of the knob body. The knob body has a pair of guiding protrusions that define a slit extending in an axial direction of the lever. The operating member includes a rib formed integrally therewith and a flange coupled to the rib approximately perpendicularly thereto. The flange is wider in width than the slit and engages the guiding protrusions due to insertion of the rib into the slit according to insertion of the operating member into the knob body in the axial direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2006Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Ryo Koyasu
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Patent number: 7834865Abstract: A rotary actuator includes a shaft with a knob which are rotatable about a shaft axis. The actuator includes a haptic effect device connected to the knob via the shaft. The haptic device is rotatable about the axis and includes a detent ring and a bolt fixed to the shaft. The haptic device and gearing engage one another such that haptic device is fixed in place unless the gearing is driven and the haptic device rotates when the gearing is driven. The bolt engages the detent ring to act as a mechanical catch for producing a haptic effect when the haptic device is fixed in place and the knob is manually rotated. The bolt engages the detent ring such that the haptic device together with the knob rotate when the gearing is being driven by a motor whereby the knob is rotated without manual intervention.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Hendrik Jannasch, Thomas Kossakowski
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Publication number: 20100269628Abstract: A control knob device has a main body defining a top surface having a ring-shaped stopping wall with two inserting openings formed thereon, and a lateral surface having a guiding recess extending upwards and downwards and a sliding slot running circumferentially and communicating with the guiding recess, with the depth thereof greater than that of the guiding recess. A shell coupled to the main body has a covering plate with two blocking portions located outside the stopping wall and adjacent to the inserting openings, and a lateral plate extending inwards to form an inserting slice corresponding to the sliding slot. The shell is coupled to the main body by the inserting slice passing through the guiding recess and inserted into the sliding slot. Two elastic ends of a spring element are inserted into the inserting openings and abut against the blocking portions for making the rotated shell return automatically.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2009Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventor: Wen-Jen Lu
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Publication number: 20100194521Abstract: An operating device for an electrical appliance has a control panel and an operating element for rotary actuation arranged thereon and a controller, wherein said operating element is mounted in a receptacle arranged behind said control panel and comprises on a front a touch-sensitive switch with a sensor element being connected electrically conductively to said controller. Said operating device comprises a retraction device for retracting said operating element into its recessed position in said receptacle by pressing. Said retraction device is configured in such a way that said knob can only be retracted into its recessed position in a single retraction rotational position, said touch-sensitive switch being deactivated by said controller in said retraction rotational position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Martin Baier
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Patent number: 7757525Abstract: A dial mechanism for a combination lock is provided. The dial mechanism may include an escutcheon plate, a ring member, a fastening member, and a dial. The ring member may include three arms, wherein each of the arms have first and second portions. The first portion extends inwardly from an inner edge of the ring member and the second portion extends perpendicularly from the first portion. The arms include a protrusion that extends outwardly from each of the second portions. The fastening member fixedly mounts the ring member to the escutcheon plate and includes an indicator. A plurality of tick marks are positioned on an outer surface of the dial, and a plurality of teeth extend from an inner surface of the dial. A tick mark is aligned with the indicator when each of the protrusions are positioned between and in contact with two adjacent teeth on the dial.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: John D. Brush & Co., Inc.Inventor: R. David Pallo
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Publication number: 20100000359Abstract: A shifter assembly includes a post-like shift lever, a knob with a bore configured to receive the top section, and a retainer spring extending longitudinally within the bore. The spring includes retainer barbs shaped to frictionally grip the knob and further has a leg(s) configured to frictionally engage the top section and also take up clearance between the top section and the bore for frictionally engaging the post-like shift lever. The spring can be alternative shapes, such as U-shaped or L-shaped. A method of assembly includes pressing the knob onto a shift lever with a single one-touch motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: January 7, 2010Inventors: William R. Kops, Lee H. Karner
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Publication number: 20090288512Abstract: A control knob is secured to a device shaft means for securing a control knob to a device shaft that eliminates loosening of the control knob relative to the device shaft during rotational and push/pull directional movement of the control knob. In addition, the control knob is secured to the device shaft to provide leeway during initial securement of the control knob to the device shaft due to tolerances in a front mounting plate. The control knob includes a threaded bore and a set screw disposed therein for securing the control knob to the device shaft. An angled groove having a plurality of angled side portions is formed into a surface of an end portion of the device shaft, whereby cooperation of the set screw within the angled groove comprises adjustable securement of the control knob to the device shaft during rotation of the control knob and device shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2008Publication date: November 26, 2009Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Bob Taylor
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Patent number: 7621198Abstract: A shift lever device for operation of a transmission of a vehicle having a plurality of shift ranges is provided which includes a lever main body, a housing that movably supports the lever main body, a light source provided at one of the housing and the lever main body; a knob mounted to a distal end portion of the lever main body, and having a transmitting portion, a light guiding portion provided at the knob and guiding light from the light source to the interior of the knob, and a light guiding control portion. The light guiding control portion includes a shutter member operatively connected to and movable with the lever main body which, when the lever main body is positioned at least at one specific shift position, does not block light from the light source to the knob transmitting portion, and which, when the lever main body is positioned at a position other than the specific shift position, is moved to a position blocking the light to the knob transmitting portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-SeisakushoInventors: Kenichi Kako, Noriyasu Shamoto, Isamu Matsushima, Keizo Fukuda, Teruaki Kitano
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Publication number: 20090205461Abstract: A locking turret knob includes an adjustment member, a first member, and a second member. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about an axis of rotation. The first member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement member. The second member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement surface. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about the axis of rotation when each engagement member does not engage an engagement surface. The adjustment member is locked in a selected position about the axis of rotation when at least one engagement member engages an engagement surface. The adjustment member can be coupled to an adjuster of an optical enhancement device, such as a telescopic sight, a telescope or a microscope.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2005Publication date: August 20, 2009Inventor: Bernard T. Windauer
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Patent number: 7571663Abstract: A rotary shifting device is provided for use with an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle. The rotary shifter device includes a rotary shifter handle that is a flat disc. A cavity is located in the center of the lower side. A positioning probe extends from the lower side of the rotary shifter handle. A rocker is located within the cavity in the rotary shifter handle. A rotary shifter positioner is secured to the top plate of an enclosure in which a rotary shifter assembly is located and which transfers the rotary motion of the handle to a push and pull motion of an actuating bar which is connected to a transmission to provide gear selection. The rotary shifter positioner includes a groove with two slots at one end for park and reverse. The rotary shifter handle tips on the rocker to permit movement of the rotary shifter handle to permit placement of the positioning probe into one of the slots while preventing access to the slots by merely rotating the rotary shifter handle.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2005Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Inventor: Harold Vigil
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Patent number: 7555821Abstract: A plunger with interchangeable handle system for machine tools. The plunger includes a shank adapted to engage a machine tool and having a retractable plunger and a threaded adapter, the interchangeable handle system includes a plurality of knobs, each having a discrete shape differing from the others and a socket to receive the threaded adapter of the shank.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2007Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Northwestern Tools, Inc.Inventors: James R. Thomeczek, Thomas A. Thomeczek, Scott R. Williamson
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Publication number: 20090151505Abstract: An auto-alignable knob for a home appliance includes an offspring box self-connectable with a valve shaft. A mobile box has at least one lateral face including a pin. The mobile box is coupled to the offspring box to allow a free movement relative to one another along a first axis. A fixed box includes an indentation and a groove. The mobile box is insertable to the fixed box by insertion of the pin of the lateral face through the groove. The pin of the mobile box provides a respective degree of freedom to the mobile box relative to the indentation of the fixed box along at least a second axis normal to the first axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2008Publication date: June 18, 2009Inventor: Octavio Lugo Castillo
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Method of calibrating a knob for use with an adjustable control device and a knob calibrated thereby
Publication number: 20090139367Abstract: A method of calibrating an adjustable control device using a knob assembly with adjustable temperature scale. A knob and a bezel that bears the temperature scale are assembled and the temperature scale is calibrated without physically changing any internals within the adjustable control device. The knob and bezel are secured to the adjustable control device so that the knob and bezel assembly can transmit an input load from a user through to the adjustable control device and so that the bezel can be rotated relative to the knob which remains fixed to an input shaft of the control for calibration purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2008Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventors: Paulo Jorge Rosa, David Popowich, Joseph Felix Scheuring, III -
Publication number: 20090044381Abstract: A stove knob timer device for use with a stove prompts a user to monitor a cooking event through a series of increasingly aggressive audible prompts. The timer device includes a main housing for engaging a stove operational shaft and which, when rotated to activate a respective stove burner, actuates a timer. After a predetermined time, a speaker is activated to emit an audible alarm to prompt a user to monitor the stove and to require a reset button to be pressed. If the reset button is not pressed in a predetermined time, the speaker is actuated to emit a more aggressive alarm so as to more urgently or even awaken a user. If the timer is reset, the original predetermined time is restarted. The timer device may include programming to adjust between timer modes and have structures enabling universal fit on various stove configurations.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventor: Vincent Sellecchia