Handles Patents (Class 74/557)
  • Patent number: 10829142
    Abstract: A steering wheel spinner is incorporated within an outer steering wheel. The spinner assembly is fashioned as an inner steering wheel secured within the circumference of the outer steering wheel. The inner steering wheel is capable of full 360° rotation relative thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Inventor: Douglas E. Andersen
  • Patent number: 9724149
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a first member defining a longitudinal axis and including a drive interface engageable with a first surface of a bone fastener. The first surface is configured for penetrating a sacrum. A second member includes a drive interface engageable with a second surface of the bone fastener to translate the second surface relative to the first surface such that the second surface engages an outer non-articular surface of an ilium to draw separated articular surfaces of the sacrum and the ilium into fixation. In some embodiments, systems and methods are disclosed. Systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orhtopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Hai H. Trieu, Brian Burd, Amanda McMahon, Michael Simmons
  • Patent number: 8905421
    Abstract: A manual wheelchair including a frame, a drive wheel connected to the frame, having a first axis of rotation and configured to rotate relative to the frame, a push rim connected to the frame, having a second axis of rotation extending substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel and configured to rotate relative to the frame, wherein the second axis of rotation of the push rim is offset from the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel in a direction orthogonal to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel, and a transmission configured to transmit rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel. Additionally, the wheelchair may also include multispeed fixed-gear hubs for propulsion on different terrain and removable or rotatable push rims for easier transfers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Department of Veterans Affairs, Technology Transfer Program
    Inventors: Andrew H. Hansen, Gary D. Goldish
  • Patent number: 8578815
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaneaki Hashimoto, Masaaki Abe, Sadahiro Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20130233121
    Abstract: An extension tool is provided for operating handwheels, such as those found on locomotive handbrakes. The tool includes a spinning handle and a tool body. The handle freely rotates about a longitudinal axis and provides a user with a spinning grip, allowing him or her to quickly and easily turn a handwheel. The tool body includes two or more jaws that clamp to the handwheel. The tool body additionally includes a screw mechanism for selectively tightening or releasing the jaws, in order to respectively attach or detach the tool from the handwheel as desired. Preferably, the screw mechanism further includes a drawbar that extends through an interior of the handle, and is adapted to move longitudinally to rotate the jaws. The drawbar is moved by rotating a threaded drawbar nut at an end of the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas P. Monroe
  • Publication number: 20130233122
    Abstract: The present invention is a strap hand crank that includes a bent steel rod that has a proximal portion and a distal portion and is bent to allow a user to fasten the strap hand crank to a winch to be easily turned or rotated, a metal cylinder with a swivel action capability that has a distal end and forms the proximal portion of the bent steel rod, a rubber cover that provides additional comfort, grasping capability and avoids static electricity that covers a handle that forms the distal portion of the bent steel rod and that moves forward or rewinds and makes the strap hand crank easier to turn and an end cap that is disposed on the distal end of the metal cylinder to cover and protect the distal end of the metal cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Smith
  • Patent number: 8430460
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventors: Estefania Erro, Asier Esnal
  • Patent number: 8205524
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Leggett & Platt Canada Co.
    Inventor: Shaffeek A. Yusuf
  • Publication number: 20120152055
    Abstract: An ergonomic handle device for steering wheels of vehicles that includes a handle that can be grasped by the user's hand to turn the steering wheel of the vehicle and where the device enables the ergonomic handle to be moved around three predefined axes “X”, “Y” and “Z”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Juan Humberto Lechuga Priego
  • Patent number: 8188406
    Abstract: The invention relates to a planar heat generating element for use on steering wheels of automotive vehicles and motorboats, and a problem of the invention is to adjust a temperature portion of a planar heat generating element which is attached to a steering wheel, so as to enhance the sensation of using the steering wheel by the user when he or she grips thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Naohito Asami, Yoshitaka Morikawa, Takehiko Shigeoka
  • Patent number: 8117942
    Abstract: A vehicle handle with improved vibration proof function. A balance weight has an inner balance weight portion with a center-of-mass positioned in a handle pipe, and an outer balance weight portion. A floating damper interposed between an outer periphery of the inner balance weight portion and an inner surface of the handle pipe supports the balance weight in one location that includes the center-of-mass of the balance weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaaki Kuwata, Yoshihiro Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20110179901
    Abstract: A novelty helmet mounting device carried by a receiving element is disclosed. The novelty helmet mounting device has a novelty helmet mounting portion which mates with and engages a novelty helmet in an interference fit such that the novelty helmet mounting portion is adapted to receive and interchange multiple novelty helmets. The novelty helmet mounting portion is adapted to non-permanently retain the novelty helmet and has a protrusion that supports a portion of the novelty helmet against compression while the novelty helmet is grasped during use of the steering wheel spinner assembly. A steering wheel spinner assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Burkley U. KLADDE
  • Publication number: 20110113920
    Abstract: The Steering Wheel Control Arm is an accessory that allows the pilot of a marine vessel or a vehicle to steer the from a position on either side of the vessel or vehicle. The Steering Wheel Control Arm consists of a clamp and a telescoping arm that attach to the steering wheel of a boat. The telescoping arm pivots up and down and from side to side so the operator can easily switch from the port to starboard sides of the boat. When not in use the arm quickly detaches allowing piloting of the boat in a normal manner. This accessory allows skippers of wheel-driven boats to enjoy the same flexibility that tiller extensions have offered tiller piloted boats. Additionally it enables pilots of motorized vessels to continue steering the vessel while assisting with activities that may be taking place at the starboard or port sides of the boat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Harlan Jay Lassen
  • Patent number: 7874230
    Abstract: A lockable handle assembly, having an operating handle rotatably mounted on a frame, with a bore therein, having an axis extending laterally, a blocking bolt slideably mounted in the handle, one end of the bolt being slideable into a strike in the frame, a drum rotatably mounted in the bore, with a second end of the bolt in contact with the drum so that rotation of the drum moves the bolt into and out of the strike, a lateral hole through the handle and passing through the bore, the drum having a throughhole therein coaxial with the lateral hole in the handle when the drum is positioned with the bolt in the strike, so that a bar extending through both the throughhole in the drum and the lateral hole in the handle prevents rotation of the drum to maintain the bolt is the strike thereby preventing rotation of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SAS
    Inventor: Patrick Maquet
  • Publication number: 20100168962
    Abstract: A vehicle steering system includes: a steeling operation member (20) that includes an auxiliary grip portion (154, 156) the position of which is changed between the expected grip position, in which the auxiliary grip portion is expected to be gripped by a driver during a steering operation, and the retracted position, which is reached when the auxiliary grip portion has been retracted from the expected grip position and in which the auxiliary grip portion is not expected to be gripped by the driver during the steering operation; an auxiliary-grip-portion position changing device that changes the position of the auxiliary grip portion between the expected grip position and the retracted position; an airbag device that deploys an airbag toward the driver; and a control unit that controls an operation of the auxiliary-grip-portion position changing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenji Imamura
  • Patent number: 7712572
    Abstract: The invention relates to a steering actuation device for a vehicle, in particular for an industrial truck, having an operating element for inputting steering commands by exerting torques on the operating element, having a sensor arrangement for monitoring the steering command input state of the operating element and having a control device for converting the steering command input data detected by the sensor arrangement into control information for a steering drive apparatus of a wheel, which can be steered, of the vehicle, the sensor arrangement detecting the respective steering command input state of the operating element by means of monitoring the elastic material deformation, in particular torsion, of an element, which is subjected to elastic deformation by means of a steering command input torque on the operating element and is coupled to or associated with the operating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Schönauer, Robert Hämmerl
  • Patent number: 7669503
    Abstract: A grip for a parking-brake operating lever includes a tubular-shaped grip main body which is press-fitted on a lever main body of the operating lever so as to be mounted on an outer circumferential periphery of the lever main body, a grip cover which is mounted on a part of a circumferential periphery of the grip main body, an engaging tab which projects from an inner surface of the grip cover and which is inserted through an insertion hole provided in the grip main body and is held in engagement with an engaging portion provided in the lever main body, such that the engaging tab is movable relative to the engaging portion in a longitudinal direction of the lever main body, and a fitting protrusion and recess which are respectively provided in the inner surface of the grip cover and the outer circumferential surface of the grip main body, and which are held in fitting engagement with each other for positioning the grip cover in a predetermined relative to the grip main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Toyoda Iron Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiro Takeshima
  • Patent number: 7665381
    Abstract: A control device for a marine propulsion system includes a base and at least two levers. Each one of the levers is supported by the base at a first end for pivotal movement about a common pivot axis and extending generally normal to the pivot axis to have a second end. The second end has a grip. The grip of one of the levers extends toward the second end of the other one of the levers. The respective grips are nested with each other when the levers extend generally parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shuji Iekura, Eifu Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7621198
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kenichi Kako, Noriyasu Shamoto, Isamu Matsushima, Keizo Fukuda, Teruaki Kitano
  • Publication number: 20080257103
    Abstract: The invention discloses a steering device comprising a support structure having a central hole and at least two handgrips, at least one of these being mobile, placed in distal positions compared to the central hole and tied to the support structure by means of pivots. The mobile handgrip is rotatable around an axis substantially orthogonal to the plane of the support structure, so as to manually apply thereto a rotating motion around the axis of the column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: NARDI-PERSONAL SPA
    Inventor: Bruno Greppi
  • Patent number: 7398997
    Abstract: The invention relates to a steering wheel arrangement for motor vehicles, in which the risk of injury is reduced, should a driver impact against the steering wheel in the event of a crash. According to the invention the skeleton of the steering wheel arrangement has a compact body of deformable, energy absorbing material, in which the spokes of the steering wheel are fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Takata-Petri AG
    Inventors: Frank Sauer, Oliver Bauer
  • Patent number: 7291814
    Abstract: A grip heater control apparatus (7) capable of increasing the opportunities to enable a heater (2) to warm a grip (1) while suppressing a voltage drop of a battery (10), the grip heater control apparatus comprising a heater (2) for generating heat by means of electric power supplied from the battery (10), the heater being provided in a grip (1) of a steering handle of a vehicle having a generator (9) for generating electricity interlocking with the rotation of an engine as a propulsive source and the battery (10) charged by the generator (9), and a heater control unit for controlling the electric energy supplied to the heater (2) from the battery (10), wherein a revolutions detecting unit is provided for detecting the number of revolutions of the engine or the generator (9) and the heater control unit includes a unit for determining an upper limit on the upper limit electric energy supplied to the heater (2) depending on the detected number of revolutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignees: Honda Access Corp., Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuo Oishi, Katsuya Okamoto
  • Patent number: 7263911
    Abstract: A steering wheel assembly for a machine or a vehicle includes a steering wheel and a pommel mounted on the steering wheel for rotation about an axis extending parallel to the axis of rotation of the steering wheel to facilitate one-handed rotation of the steering wheel. The pommel carries control switches to control functions of the machine or vehicle in particular to allow shuttling between forward and reverse drive. A mechanism is connected to the pommel to rotate the pommel relative to the steering wheel in synchronism with the rotation of the steering wheel about its axis in such a manner as to maintain the same orientation of the pommel in all positions of the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Charles Kindred
  • Patent number: 7213485
    Abstract: A bicycle assistive handlebar structure installed at the anterior extent of a front fork stem, stem clamp mount that serves as a means of conjoinment. The stem clamp mount consists of a concave section and a threaded hole that provides for the fastening of bolts inserted via four through-holes. Furthermore, a vertical coupling passage is disposed through the installation crown, thereby providing for the horizontal arrangement of a handlebar in a connective mounting shank. The two sides of a transverse rod provides for the fitting into position of insertion sleeves, and an elongated hole provides for the stationary seating into the connective mounting shank elongated hole. Radial splines are respectively fabricated along the outer sides of the joint mount and the inner sides of an assistive handlebar. As such, the present invention provides the rider variable adjustment operation over upper and lower height, forward and backward distance, and rotative direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventor: Yuan-Hsin Huang
  • Patent number: 7204338
    Abstract: A steering wheel mounted on a forklift 1 is provided with a steering wheel knob 17 which can be operated with one hand holding it. The steering wheel knob 17 has an approximately egg-like shape with switches 46, 47 provided on its end face. Incorporated in the steering wheel knob 17 are a transmission circuit 49, which radio-transmits a signal when the switches 46, 47 are operated, and a battery 51. The signal transmitted from the steering wheel knob 17 is received by a reception section 68 on a vehicle body 2 and a controller 48 executes predetermined control based on that signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Jidoshokki
    Inventors: Kenichi Katae, Hisashi Ichijo
  • Patent number: 6904827
    Abstract: An automatic transmission operating lever which includes a knob with a switch, a lever member and a conducting wire wired in the knob to send a signal from the switch. The lever member includes a rod to be inserted into the knob and a lever base having an end face to which the rod is connected. An insertion hole is provided on an end face, and the conducting wire is inserted thereto. A guide path communicates with the insertion hole and guides the conducting wire in a direction crossing an axial direction of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Fujikiko Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tetsuya Arakawa, Ryoichi Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6855651
    Abstract: A cover tape for winding on a grip of a device comprising an elongated cloth layer and an elastic layer. The cloth layer has a first surface and a second surface. The elastic layer is made of silicone gel and bonded to the first surface of the cloth layer for enabling the second surface of the cloth layer to be exposed to the outside when spirally winding the cover tape round the grip with the elastic layer adhered to the periphery of the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Tsai-Yun Yu
  • Patent number: 6838647
    Abstract: A surface-heating element for a curved surface and method of producing a heating element is provided. The heating element includes a continuous, planar conductor arranged along a longitudinal axis including a plurality of turns connected by regions being generally transverse to the longitudinal axis. The conductor including end portions each having a terminal for receiving electrical current. The heating element also includes a film applied to one side of the conductor and configured to substantially follow an outer contour of the conductor. The film and the conductor form a continuous web generally centered about the longitudinal axis, and at least one turn connecting two generally transverse regions extends beyond the continuous web. The heating element may also include an adhesive layer on the other side of the heating element sealingly engaging the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems AG
    Inventor: Peter Nägele
  • Patent number: 6705180
    Abstract: An automatic transmission operating lever which includes a knob with a switch, a lever member and a conducting wire wired in the knob to send a signal from the switch. The lever member includes a rod to be inserted into the knob and a lever base having an end face to which the rod is connected. An insertion hole is provided on an end face, and the conducting wire is inserted thereto. A guide path communicates with the insertion hole and guides the conducting wire in a direction crossing an axial direction of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Fujikiko Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tetsuya Arakawa, Ryoichi Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 6701801
    Abstract: A device that is ergonomically designed for steering a variety of industrial vehicles is disclosed. The driver may steer the vehicle while keeping his hand flat on the device, which is custom fitted to a particular industrial vehicle. The hand that steers the vehicle is kept flat on the device, allowing the driver of the vehicle to steer it without grasping the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Innovative Industrial Products, LLC
    Inventors: Robert M. Wilson, John L. Hood, Tim Strecker
  • Patent number: 6698310
    Abstract: A sleeve for a vehicle handbrake lever has a stationary tube (21) adapted to mount on the handbrake with a button and a movable tube (22) rotatably and slidably mounted on the stationary tube (21). The movable tube (22) has a limit block (222) protruding to the stationary tube (21). The stationary tube (21) has an L-shaped cutout (214) composed of a transversal slot (216) and a longitudinal slot (215) to movably receive the limit block (222). By locating the limit block (222) in the longitudinal slot (215) or the transversal slot (216), the movable tube (22) selectively releases or presses the button to keep the handbrake locked or unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Chia-Lung Yeh
  • Patent number: 6621406
    Abstract: A keyless entry system for a vehicle is provided, on the vehicle, with detection distance setting circuit for changing a detection distance within which an electronic key can receive an activation signal. By carrying out predetermined operations, the keyless entry systems enters an adjustment mode wherein the detection distance can be changed by the detection distance setting circuit. With this configuration, the detection distance can be adjusted while the keyless entry system is mounted on the vehicle, whereby it is possible to attain a system causing no malfunction and ensuring high levels of security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: U-Shin Ltd.
    Inventor: Masakazu Kumano
  • Patent number: 6536302
    Abstract: A manual adjustment mechanism for adjusting the relative position of a component in a vehicle including a control device for actuating the mechanism. The manual adjustment mechanism includes an input shaft coupled to the control device and an output shaft operatively coupled to the input shaft. A support bracket axially supports the input shaft and the output shaft. A drum shaped housing having a cylindrical inner surface is fixedly secured to the support bracket and rotatably received the input shaft. A coupler is mounted to the input shaft and rotatably disposed within the housing. The coupler includes a pair of spaced apart tube walls planar with and spaced from the inner surface of the housing and a pair of circumferentially opposite tabs projecting between the tube walls. A coiled spring is disposed between the housing and the coupler and compressed against the inner surface of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Seating Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Omar D. Tame
  • Publication number: 20030052245
    Abstract: A mounting system for an operator control implement comprises a manipulation tube which defines a first axis and upon one end of which an operator control implement is adapted to be mounted. The manipulation tube extends through a housing within which a first clutch assembly is disposed, and in conjunction with which there is disposed a first cam member. A first fixed support member defines a second axis, and a second support member is rotatably mounted upon the first support member. The second support member is fixedly mounted upon the housing, and a second clutch assembly is interposed between the first and second support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: James Edward McKeown, Stephen Paul Foisy
  • Patent number: 6526845
    Abstract: A new and useful invention is an attachable steering wheel rotating apparatus having the following qualities: friendly on the user's hand, friendly to the steering wheel, pleasing to the eyes, and above all a reliable yet simple and quick attachment and detachment system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Peter Chi Moc
  • Patent number: 6418814
    Abstract: A steering wheel has at least one covering part affixed to a steering wheel rim. At least one mechanical connecting element, in particular a clip-type connecting part, is placed between the steering wheel rim and the covering part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Takata-Petri AG
    Inventors: Jakob Emeneth, Benno Rosenberger, Karl-Walter Hock
  • Patent number: 6415683
    Abstract: A work bench includes a frame, a bench surface on the frame with the bench surface including at least two members, one of which is movable along the frame for clamping a workpiece between the members. A mechanism for moving the member includes two screws coupled with the members. The two screws are spaced with the member for moving the member upon rotation of the screws. A sprocket is coupled with each of the screws. A transmission belt or chain is coupled with the sprockets. At least one handle is coupled with one of the screws to rotate the screws. At least one clutch is coupled with the at least one screw to limit clamping pressure on the workpiece. The clutch enables rotation of one screw with respect to the other screw so that workpieces may be clamped between the members and clamping of the workpiece may be accomplished by rotation of the screws with one hand of the operator. Also, a guard may be present which covers the transmission belt or chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Marc A. Fortin, Murray D. Hunter
  • Patent number: 6349622
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool suitable for opening a number of different valve structures such as commonly found in public service domains such as fire hydrants, natural gas, fire trucks, etc. The tool is compact and is designed to grip a number of different size valve stems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventors: Stephan Lemaire, Patrick Mellot
  • Patent number: 6343526
    Abstract: A tractor steering wheel grip comprising a clamp secured to the rim of the steering wheel and having a post projecting therefrom. A hand grip is rotatably secured to the post which is gripped by the operator of the tractor. The hand grip comprises a base portion which rotatably receives the post, a first leg portion which extends from the base portion at substantially a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the post, an arcuate portion extending from the first leg portion, and an elongated hand gripping portion extending from the arcuate portion. The first leg portion, arcuate portion and the elongated hand gripping portion define a substantial U-shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventors: David Reicks, Dana Reicks
  • Publication number: 20020007694
    Abstract: A new and useful invention is an attachable steering wheel rotating apparatus having the following qualities: friendly on the user's hand, friendly to the steering wheel, pleasing to the eyes, and above all a reliable yet simple and quick attachment and detachment system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Chi Moc
  • Publication number: 20010027699
    Abstract: A tractor steering wheel grip comprising a clamp secured to the rim of the steering wheel and having a post projecting therefrom. A hand grip is rotatably secured to the post which is gripped by the operator of the tractor. The hand grip comprises a base portion which rotatably receives the post, a first leg portion which extends from the base portion at substantially a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the post, an arcuate portion extending from the first leg portion, and an elongated hand gripping portion extending from the arcuate portion. The first leg portion, arcuate portion and the elongated hand gripping portion define a substantial U-shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventors: David Reicks, Dana Reicks
  • Patent number: 6164156
    Abstract: A window operator is disclosed. The window operator may be provided with a handle that may be folded from an operable (or extended) position to a stored (or retracted) position. In the window operator, a spring assembly having an integrally formed spring finger operates within a cavity in the body of the handle of the window operator to provide a securing (or positive locking) action at least in an operable position. The spring assembly may also provide a securing action in the stored (or storage) position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Newell Operating Company
    Inventor: Stephen Mark Purcell
  • Patent number: 6161449
    Abstract: A steering wheel rotating apparatus for physically handicapped persons includes a grip holder having a grip hole and an engaging member projectable from the inside surface of the grip hole. The grip holder is fixed to the steering wheel of an automobile. A rotary grip having a shaft with an insertion part is detachably received in the grip hole and a grip body part mounted on the shaft, and a switch unit having a switch case and switches is detachably fitted to the grip holder, so that a physically handicapped person may operate the steering wheel using the rotary grip and also operate the switches by the hand which is gripping the rotary grip. When a non-physically handicapped person is to operate the steering wheel, the rotary grip and the switch unit may be removed so as not to interfere with steering wheel operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Yoshio Fujimori
  • Patent number: 6151987
    Abstract: A vehicular steering handle is provided which is adapted for use with a mounting assembly mounted on a steering wheel of a vehicle. The vehicle steering handle includes a linear inboard portion and an outboard portion integrally coupled to the linear inboard portion and having an oval configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Daniel S. Porter
  • Patent number: 6116370
    Abstract: A new anti-theft system for permitting removal of the gear selection shaft from a vehicle having a gear selection console with an aperture extending through it that permits external gear selection of a transmission, thereby preventing theft of the vehicle. The inventive device includes a transmission engaging lever that is movably mounted to a transmission. The first end of the transmission engaging lever is insertable into the lower end of a shaft member that extends through the aperture in the console. A release lever extends from the aperture of the shaft member towards the lower end of the shaft member. The second end of the release lever has a flange extending from it that is inserted into a notch in the transmission engaging lever when the release lever is in an engaged position, thereby coupling the shaft member to the transmission engaging lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Fernando Marina Puigbo
  • Patent number: 6062102
    Abstract: A steering mechanism for a vehicle includes a steering shaft, a steering wheel having a hub operably connected to an end of the steering shaft and an elongated steering handle rotatably connected to the steering wheel in a manner wherein the steering handle is maintained in a vertical position throughout rotation of the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Byron Jacoby
  • Patent number: 6053071
    Abstract: A cover for transmission levers for vehicles that are pivotally mounted at one end and the distal end includes a handle. A sac assembly with a double liner covers the handle and with an engagement assembly at the opening of the sac assembly it is removably mounted over the handle. Another embodiment includes an engagement assembly that uses a threaded tubular member that is removably mounted to the threaded distal end of the lever. In both embodiments a compartment is provided with granular material contained therein. A relatively soft object results with still sufficient rigid characteristics to transmit the force applied by a user to shift the gears. The sac assembly also provides desirable gripping qualities to permit a user to dissipate his anxiety and stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Michael Vazquez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6038937
    Abstract: A shift knob integrally includes one of a plug or socket having fixed contacts which are coupled to a control switch mounted to the shift knob. The plug or socket is mounted to a sleeve which integrally includes the other of a socket and plug with fixed contacts precoupled to the transmission wire harness such that during assembly it is only necessary for the shift knob to be mounted onto the knob-receiving sleeve to make both mechanical and electrical contact with the transmission. In a preferred embodiment, the shift knob includes a keyed plug with the contacts recessed within a housing of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Kim L. Van Order, Nels R. Smith, Scott A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5947671
    Abstract: A clamping mechanism is configured for receipt on a threaded drive spindle to hold a working tool relative to the drive spindle. The mechanism includes a flange surface disposed to abut against a working tool in an operational mode of the device, and a rotatable member configured with the flange surface and disposed to advance the flange surface upon manual rotation thereof. The rotatable member includes at least one manual tightening device or mechanism for effectively increasing the manual tightening torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Power Tool Holders Incorporated
    Inventors: Roger J. Kanaan, Stephen E. Gibson, Dennis D. Claramunt
  • Patent number: 5927739
    Abstract: A convenient power grip hand rim assembly provides a user-friendly economical push rim to easily and safely control, maneuver, accelerate and brake a wheelchair. The dependable dual friction hand rim assembly can have a rubber-like traction ring providing a propulsion rim portion to propel the wheelchair and can have a smooth metal rim, brake or braking rim portion to restrain and brake the wheelchair without burning or otherwise injuring the user's hand. The power traction ring and braking rim can come in different cross-sectional configurations depending on the method of manufacture as well as to accommodate the preferences of the user and can have a special gripping surface to facilitate gripping. The braking rim portion can be made of titanium, aluminum, stainless steel or other medical grade metal and can be surface treated, tempered, hardened, coated, waxed, chrome plated, brass plated, painted or anodized to accommodate the desires and aesthetic appeal of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Jens Evling