Multiple Drive Or Driven Means Patents (Class 81/57.22)
  • Patent number: 10343242
    Abstract: A reconfigurable fastener multi-spindle tool system includes multiple spindle assemblies, each including a support ring and a support arm sleeve received in the support ring and rotatable on a central longitudinal axis of the support ring. At least one support arm is connected to the support ring. The at least one support arm rotates with respect to the central longitudinal axis. A spindle is fixed to the support arm and is displaceable with respect to the central longitudinal axis. The spindle has an adaptor to temporarily retain and torque a fastener. A reaction plate is connected to the spindle and has a geometric shape. At least one template plate has multiple openings each having a geometric shape matching the geometric shape of the reaction plate. One of the openings receives the reaction plate thereby preventing axial rotation of the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Christopher B. Preston, Mark L. Graham, Christine A. Cugini
  • Patent number: 10307897
    Abstract: A torque reactor employs a first socket with a first drive element engaging the first socket and a second socket with a second drive element engaging the second socket. The first drive element has a first receiving channel and the second drive element has a second receiving channel. A shaft is received in the first receiving channel second receiving channel. A first engagement mechanism secures the shaft in the first receiving channel and a second engagement mechanism secures the shaft in the second receiving channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Paul R. Stone, Michael W. Luce
  • Patent number: 9833883
    Abstract: The present disclosure is a bi-directional screwdriver, which includes a handle, a main shaft, a gearing which includes a driving gear, a driven gear, a transmission seat and an idle gear which is mounted on the idle gear axle on the transmission seat and is fitted between the driving gear and the driven gear for transferring motion. The handle rotates the driving gear. A grip ring is securely provided outside the idle gear axle. When the grip ring is gripped and the handle is rotated to rotate the driving gear, the driving gear rotates the driven gear in a reverse direction through the idle gear. The driving gear also has a first inside ratchet surface, and the driven gear also has a second inside ratchet surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignees: Hangzhou Great Star Tools Co., Ltd., Hangzhou Great Star Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Weiyi Wang
  • Patent number: 9573231
    Abstract: A driving apparatus is used for simultaneously tensioning the jackbolts of a multi-jackbolt tensioner and includes a central drive gear mounted for rotation along a central drive gear axis. An annular array of spindles surrounds the central drive gear, each spindle independently mounted for rotation, with one spindle associated with one of the jackbolts. A socket on one spindle end is configured to receive one of the jackbolts. A spindle gear surrounds each spindle and is configured to rotate the spindle. The spindle gear is meshed with the central drive gear to be rotated by the central drive gear, wherein at least one spindle gear is offset along the central drive gear axis from at least another spindle gear. A slip clutch is positioned radially between each spindle gear and the associated spindle, wherein rotation of the jackbolts is up to a torque setting of the slip clutch during tensioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: David Rice
  • Patent number: 9498859
    Abstract: A multi-axis temporary tightening tool includes: a tool main body formed into a ring shape; and a plurality of sockets which are arranged in a ring shape along the tool main body, are rotated by rotational force input to the tool main body, and simultaneously apply rotational force to a plurality of screw members that are engaged in the sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Kira, Toshio Toyoda
  • Patent number: 9149308
    Abstract: A tool is provided for use with a bone anchor, wherein the bone anchor has an anchoring section and a receiving portion for receiving a rod to be connected to the anchoring section and a locking element, the tool comprising a tip portion for engaging the locking element; a mechanism to apply torque to the tip portion comprising a drive shaft and a driven shaft coupled by a gear unit, where the drive shaft has a different axis than the driven shaft, and where the driven shaft comprises an engagement portion configured to connect the driven shaft to the gear unit; and a counter-holding portion for engaging the receiving part, wherein the counter-holding portion is rotatable with respect to the tip portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Biedermann Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Michael Kegel
  • Patent number: 8939048
    Abstract: A device for rotation of a torque tong with at least two diametrically opposite circular arc-shaped segments and gripping devices for holding a pipe substantially perpendicularly to the torque tong's radial plane. To each segment and in abutment thereto there is provided at least one elongated flexible drive element operatively connected to support units and devices for movement of the respective drive element so that the torque tong is rotated in the radial plane. Each drive element is attached at first and second ends to respective securing portions and includes an engagement portion in engagement with and/or abutment against a segment. Rotation of the torque tong is implemented by performing a rectilinear movement of a first of said movement elements, and simultaneously implementing a rectilinear movement of the second of said movement elements in the opposite direction to and substantially parallel to the movement of the first movement element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Aker MH AS
    Inventor: Bernt Olav Holen
  • Publication number: 20150013502
    Abstract: In a tensioning device for expanding a threaded bolt by a pull on its threaded end portion, a supporting tube surrounds the threaded end portion and a nut is screwed onto the threaded end portion. A cylinder is arranged in the prolongation of the supporting tube and has at least one piston movable therein in the longitudinal direction and connectable to a hydraulic supply. An interchangeable bush is screwable to the threaded end portion and is drivable axially by the piston. A gear arrangement for adjusting the nut is provided. Components of the gear arrangement are a driver element engaging externally on the nut and a drive shaft provided with an engagement structure for a drive tool. In this case, the axis of rotation of the drive shaft is arranged at an angle of preferably 90° to the longitudinal mid-axis of the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Jörg Hohmann, Frank Hohmann
  • Patent number: 8863621
    Abstract: A power tong includes a rotor, driven by a primary drive, for spinning and torquing threaded connections of a tubular gripped in the rotor. A grip in the rotor grips the tubular. A serpentine member supplies power to actuate the grip. The serpentine member is driven by a secondary drive. The primary and secondary drives are mounted on a stator frame. The rotor is rotatably mounted to the stator frame and driven by the primary drive during continuous three hundred and sixty degrees of rotation. A fixed or backup jaw may also be mounted to the stator frame. Tubular grippers on the fixed jaw grip a first side of a tubular joint. The grip on the rotor grips the opposite side of the tubular joint. High torque low-rotational speed applied to the rotor torques the joint. Low torque high-rotational speed applied to the rotor spins the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Allan Stewart Richardson
  • Patent number: 8826777
    Abstract: Fastening tools for connectors and methods for fastening connectors are disclosed. An example apparatus includes an input shaft coupled to a gear train, a first output shaft coupled to the gear train and including a first screwdriver head, and a second output shaft coupled to the gear train and including a second screwdriver head. The gear train is to rotate the first and second output shafts simultaneously in response to a rotation of the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Roung-Min David Shieh
  • Publication number: 20140245869
    Abstract: A driving apparatus is used for simultaneously tensioning the jackbolts of a multi-jackbolt tensioner and includes a central drive gear mounted for rotation along a central drive gear axis. An annular array of spindles surrounds the central drive gear, each spindle independently mounted for rotation, with one spindle associated with one of the jackbolts. A socket on one spindle end is configured to receive one of the jackbolts. A spindle gear surrounds each spindle and is configured to rotate the spindle. The spindle gear is meshed with the central drive gear to be rotated by the central drive gear, wherein at least one spindle gear is offset along the central drive gear axis from at least another spindle gear. A slip clutch is positioned radially between each spindle gear and the associated spindle, wherein rotation of the jackbolts is up to a torque setting of the slip clutch during tensioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventor: David Rice
  • Patent number: 8640780
    Abstract: An improved multi-bolt and nut torque wrench for installing and removing bolts or nuts from flanged joints or the like which includes a plurality of torque stations having a plurality of high torque wrenches for engaging the heads of the bolts or nuts during a high torque phase of removal or installation; a plurality of low-torque motors operatively engaged with the wrenches for rotating the bolts or nuts during the low torque phase of removal or installation; a source of hydraulic fluid for driving the low-torque motors during the low-torque phase, and driving the high-torque wrenches during the high torque phase; and a mechanism for switching between the two phases depending on the torque needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Francis Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Francis, Nicholas Francis, William P. Bernard, Oswald J. Bernard, Lan Hiscox, Brian Compton, Arthur Jones
  • Patent number: 8490519
    Abstract: An attachment is described that is configured for attachment to an arm of a piece of heavy construction equipment. The attachment is configured to rotate a section of pipe during break out (i.e. disconnection or disassembly) from another section of pipe and/or make up (i.e. connection or assembly) with another section of pipe. The attachment is configured to break the joint or torque the joint to a predetermined torque value, unthread or thread pipe, and lift the pipe under the power of the heavy construction equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: LaValley Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Lavalley, Daniel L. Larson, Roger Lavalley, Marvin N. Larson, Rodney Wurgler, Christopher G. Kay, Matthew J. Michel, Jesse J. Kilde
  • Publication number: 20130139651
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are different embodiments of a fastening device. In particular, various embodiments of a fastening device are described herein for enabling fasteners of different types (e.g. shape and/or size, etc.) to be fastened using a common input drive. For example, different embodiments of the herein described fastening device comprise two or more output sockets in attending to the fastening of different fastener types, which output sockets are selectable in one example by reorienting the fastening device via activation of the input drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
  • Patent number: 8448548
    Abstract: A tightening head (1) is provided with at least two sockets (4i, 4ii) which are alternatively connected to an output shaft of a nut runner (3), a socket replacing mechanism (6) and a bolt supplying mechanism (7). The socket replacing mechanism (6) is provided with a moving mechanism (61) and a posture changing mechanism (64). The moving mechanism (61) moves each socket (4i, 4ii) between a using position where the socket (4i, 4ii) agrees with an axis of the output shaft of the nut runner (3) and a waiting position which is distant from the axis. The posture changing mechanism (64) changes a posture of each socket (4i, 4ii) to an upward posture corresponding to the waiting position and to a tightening posture corresponding to the using position. The bolt supplying mechanism 7 is provided with bolt magazines (8i, 8ii) and bolt holding mechanism (9i, 9ii). During a bolt tightening step is executed by one socket in the using position, the bolt (B) is supplied to the other socket in the waiting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinobu Kobayashi, Tetsuo Ishii
  • Publication number: 20130074658
    Abstract: An adjustable socket wrench extension includes a gear train of meshing gears that translates torque from a first end to a second, opposite end; a female drive fitting to apply the torque from the socket wrench to the first end of the gear train; a male drive fitting to provide the torque to a socket at the second end; a frame that retains the gear train in a plane; a plurality of locking plates on the first side of the frame; a locking tab on the first side of the frame to retain the locking plates in a relative orientation; and a pushbutton on the second side of the frame to temporarily disengage the locking tab from the locking plates so that the relative orientation between the plates may be changed, thereby changing the shape of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Bowens
  • Patent number: 8397831
    Abstract: A rotary power tool according to the invention includes a manual ratchet mechanism having a driveshaft driven by a motor, an output shaft, a disengageable shaft coupling element for mechanically coupling the driveshaft to the output shaft, and a disengageable ratchet element for blocking rotation of the output shaft unidirectionally. The invention provides that one of the coupling element and the ratchet element is engaged, the other one is disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Mohsein Wan, Manfred Lutz, Romli Norrofaizi
  • Publication number: 20130047790
    Abstract: Screwdriver apparatus for screwing-in, or unscrewing, two or more screws simultaneously. Gear linkage is provided to cause appropriate rotation of a plurality of appropriately-supported parallel shafts to simultaneously rotate and operate upon screws, such as two screws holding a line card in a router or switch within a telecommunications system. The distance between the parallel shafts is adjustable and under control of the user of the screwdriver. Any kind of screwdriver blade, such as Phillips, flat, etc., can be attached at the ends of the parallel shafts, and the blades need not match each other for any given usage. Rotational power for the screwdriver can be supplied by a human user or by a machine. Use of this tool facilitates adding or removing the aforementioned line cards, and saves technician time. Application of this tool is not limited to line cards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.
    Inventors: Faisal SHAH, Saadullah MOHAMMAD
  • Patent number: 8381619
    Abstract: A fastening device used to fasten two locknuts to an object simultaneously includes a pedestal defining a first sliding groove, a pair of fixing blocks, a pair of rotating elements, a pair of first gear wheels and a second gear wheel. The fixing blocks are received and fixed in the first sliding groove. Each of the fixing blocks defines a through hole. Each of the rotating elements includes an operating portion and a shaft portion received in the through hole. Each of the pair of gear wheels includes a gear body attached to corresponding one of the shaft portions respectively and a sleeve protruding from the gear body and snugly receiving one of the locknuts. The second gear wheel is attached to the pedestal and engaging the pair of first gear wheels to achieve synchronous movements of the pair of first gear wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tzu-Hsiu Hung
  • Patent number: 8322255
    Abstract: A multi-wrench gear head apparatus for adjusting tie-rod assemblies of dissimilar size. Such an apparatus employs a plurality of driven wrench (socket) portions, which can be provided to engage and adjust tie-rods of different and particular sizes. The wrench portions share a common gear train, such that multiple wrench portions may be driven by a single drive means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Doug Jordan, Jeff Nisbett
  • Patent number: 8316739
    Abstract: A method for attaching a plurality of fasteners located along a circular path uses a screwdriving device that has feed drive outputs. The drive outputs correspond to the fasteners, are located on a circular path and include a screwdriving tool bit. During the method, the drive outputs are extended from a position of repose to a working position and the screwdriving tool bit, located at the fastener, screws in the fastener. The feed drive outputs are located on circular paths of different diameters and only those drive outputs located on a particular circular path, which corresponds with a circular path on which the fasteners are located, leave their position of repose. The number of feed drive outputs corresponds to the number of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Vollmuth, Klaus Oehme
  • Publication number: 20120227548
    Abstract: A one-way wrench includes a head, a wheel, a pawl, a spring-biased detent assembly, a handle, a grip, a shaft and a transmission unit. The wheel includes a rack extending thereon. The pawl is for engagement with the wheel. The spring-biased detent assembly pushes the pawl against the wheel. The handle is connected to the head. The grip is rotationally located on the handle. The shaft is rotationally inserted through the handle and includes a first end fit in the grip and a second end located outside the handle. The transmission unit includes a first gear connected to the second end of the shaft, a second gear engaged with the first gear, a third gear engaged with the second gear, and a fourth gear connected to the third gear on one hand and engaged with the rack of the wheel on the other hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Da-Sen LIN
  • Patent number: 8141236
    Abstract: An apparatus for removal of retentive mechanisms retaining a cover of a component device. The apparatus includes a structure. The apparatus also includes a component device positioner coupled to the structure. The apparatus additionally includes a plurality of retentive mechanism removers coupled with the structure. Each of the plurality of retentive mechanism removers are configured for interoperability with each retention mechanism retaining a cover of a component device having a plurality of retention mechanisms disposed therein. The apparatus further includes a drive mechanism that is coupled with the structure. The drive mechanism is for rotation of each of the plurality of retentive mechanism removers, causing removal of each retention mechanism retaining the cover of the component device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Global Storage Technologies, Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Khaled M. Fawzi, Chandrasekaran Nagappan
  • Patent number: 8082822
    Abstract: A vehicle toe set adjustment device and method for adjusting a vehicle tie rod includes an adjustment head adapted to be received over a tie rod. The adjustment head includes a surface for engaging a tie rod fastener, a plurality of moveable collet keys mounted on the adjustment head, and a drive member engaging surface. An actuator on the adjustment head moves the collet keys to engage the tie rod after the tie rod is received in the adjustment head. A method is also provided for engaging moveable collet keys on an adjustment head to engage the tie rod for rotation of the tie rod to adjust the toe set of a vehicle wheel. The device and method are useful with a variety of tie rod assemblies on various vehicles having different sized tie rod assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Burke E. Porter Machinery Company
    Inventor: Mark S Hoenke
  • Publication number: 20110265611
    Abstract: An apparatus for actuating fasteners includes at least first and second base supports, a plurality of engagement tools, and a compound peripheral actuator. The base supports are configured so that when they are brought into operable alignment, they form a periphery with an open interior, for extending around a first part connected to a second part. The engagement tools are rotatably coupled to the base supports, and each includes a rotator member and a fastener coupler. The compound peripheral actuator is dimensioned to extend around and engage the rotator members of the engagement tools around the periphery. In operation, the base supports are deployed around the first part, and moved for engagement of the fastener couplers with fasteners connecting the first part to the second part. The compound peripheral actuator is deployed to engage and rotate the rotator members, for simultaneous rotation of the fasteners connected to the fastener couplers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Venkatesh RAMAN
  • Publication number: 20110265612
    Abstract: A fastening device used to fasten two locknuts to an object simultaneously includes a pedestal defining a first sliding groove, a pair of fixing blocks, a pair of rotating elements, a pair of first gear wheels and a second gear wheel. The fixing blocks are received and fixed in the first sliding groove. Each of the fixing blocks defines a through hole. Each of the rotating elements includes an operating portion and a shaft portion received in the through hole. Each of the pair of gear wheels includes a gear body attached to corresponding one of the shaft portions respectively and a sleeve protruding from the gear body and snugly receiving one of the locknuts. The second gear wheel is attached to the pedestal and engaging the pair of first gear wheels to achieve synchronous movements of the pair of first gear wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: TZU-HSIU HUNG
  • Patent number: 8020626
    Abstract: An improved multi-bolt and nut torque wrench for installing and removing bolts or nuts from flanged joints or the like which includes a plurality of torque stations having a plurality of high torque wrenches for engaging the heads of the bolts or nuts during a high torque phase of removal or installation; a plurality of low-torque motors operatively engaged with the wrenches for rotating the bolts or nuts during the low torque phase of removal or installation; a source of hydraulic fluid for driving the low-torque motors during the low-torque phase, and driving the high-torque wrenches during the high torque phase; and a mechanism for switching between the two phases depending on the torque needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Dale Francis, Nicholas Francis, William P. Bernard, Oswald J. Bernard, Lan Hiscox, Brian Compton, Arthur Jones
  • Patent number: 7971509
    Abstract: A dual screwdriver is provided for connecting and disconnecting a connector assembly having first and second jackscrew guideposts. In one embodiment, the dual screwdriver includes a housing, a user input rotatably coupled to the housing, first and second manually-bendable shafts each rotatably coupled to the housing, and first and second bits mounted to the distal end portions of first and second manually-bendable shafts, respectively. The first and second bits are configured to matingly engage the first and second jackscrew guideposts. A gear train is disposed in the housing and mechanically couples the user input to the first and second manually-bendable shafts. The rotation of the user input drives the rotation of the first and second manually-bendable shafts and, therefore, the rotation of the first and second jackscrew guideposts when matingly engaged by the first and second bits, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Wiley Shortridge
  • Patent number: 7836796
    Abstract: A screwing device includes a holder, an interaction unit and a screwing unit. The holder has a rotation axle. The interaction unit is connected to the rotation axle and has an interaction ring. The screwing unit has a plurality of screwing elements and interacts with the inner peripheral surface of the interaction ring. When the holder rotates along a screwing direction, the interaction ring also rotates along the same screwing direction and drives the screwing unit to rotate along the same screwing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Pegatron Corporation
    Inventor: Hu-Sung Chang
  • Publication number: 20100199812
    Abstract: A power tong continuously rotates tubulars for spinning and torquing threaded connections. Continuous rotation is achieved through a rotating jaw having grippers that grip the tubular and continuously rotate with it. Hydraulic and electrical power necessary for actuating the grippers is generated on board. A serpentine belt system turns the motors of the on-board hydraulic power unit and electric generators to supply the grippers with hydraulic and electrical power. The serpentine belt system is driven by a secondary drive mounted on a fixed frame. The rotating jaw is rotatably mounted to the fixed frame and driven during continuous three hundred and sixty degrees of rotation by a primary drive, mounted on the fixed frame. A fixed jaw is also mounted to the frame. Tubular grippers on the fixed jaw grip a first side of a tubular joint. The grippers on the rotating jaw grip the opposite second side of the tubular joint. High torque low-rotational speed applied to the rotating jaw torques the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Allan Stewart Richardson
  • Publication number: 20100175511
    Abstract: A dual screwdriver is provided for connecting and disconnecting a connector assembly having first and second jackscrew guideposts. In one embodiment, the dual screwdriver includes a housing, a user input rotatably coupled to the housing, first and second manually-bendable shafts each rotatably coupled to the housing, and first and second bits mounted to the distal end portions of first and second manually-bendable shafts, respectively. The first and second bits are configured to matingly engage the first and second jackscrew guideposts. A gear train is disposed in the housing and mechanically couples the user input to the first and second manually-bendable shafts. The rotation of the user input drives the rotation of the first and second manually-bendable shafts and, therefore, the rotation of the first and second jackscrew guideposts when matingly engaged by the first and second bits, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventor: Ronald Wiley Shortridge
  • Publication number: 20100162854
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for screwing in several fastening means such as screws/nuts, which are disposed especially on a circular path, with the aid of a screwing mechanism (2) comprising feeding outputs (19) that are arranged so as to correspond to the screws/nut, particularly on a circular path, and are provided with a screwing tool. Said method encompasses the following steps: the outputs are deployed from a neutral position into an operating position; the screwing tools are placed on the screws/nuts; and the screws/nuts are screwed in by means of the outputs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Vollmuth, Klaus Oehme
  • Patent number: 7698969
    Abstract: A nut runner mounting structure for supporting one or more nut runner spindles includes a spindle supporting base plate, and at least one support pillar extending in parallel with the spindles and secured at its forward end to the base plate and at its rear end to a mounting structure support. Each support pillar has a tube element provided with a forward end piece and a rear end piece, and a tension bolt engaging the rear end piece and the base plate to exert an axial clamping force on the tube element. The forward end piece is formed with sharp edged teeth for penetrating into and forming matching teeth in the tube element and the base plate for locking the tube element against rotation. Clamping units are attachable to the tube elements for carrying additional equipment and connecting the structure to a mounting structure support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Tools AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Christer Hansson
  • Publication number: 20100071922
    Abstract: A rotary power tool according to the invention includes a manual ratchet mechanism having a driveshaft driven by a motor, an output shaft, a disengageable shaft coupling element for mechanically coupling the driveshaft to the output shaft, and a disengageable ratchet element for blocking rotation of the output shaft unidirectionally. The invention provides that one of the coupling element and the ratchet element is engaged, the other one is disengaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Mohsein WAN, Manfred LUTZ, Romli NORROFAIZI
  • Patent number: 7681311
    Abstract: A multi-tool process station includes a tool sub-station having a plurality of electrically powered tools moveable between an operating position and a ready position; a voltage source spaced therefrom by a distance; at least one controller spaced from the tool sub-station and in communication with the tools; a cable structure extending across the distance and having not more than one outer cable sheath at any point along the distance, the cable structure supplying power from the voltage source to a plurality of the tools and further carrying control signals to the plurality of tools. The cable structure may consist of a single continuous cable, or may comprise multiple cable segments, such as first and second cables connected in series. The tool sub-station may be disposed proximate a vehicle manufacturing line and the plurality of tools comprise at least a plurality of screw spindles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Power Tools GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Ulrich Kaminski
  • Patent number: 7637182
    Abstract: A dual fastener engagement tool includes a drive shaft engageable with a power drill. A housing includes a base section and a pair of arm sections attached to the base section. The housing includes a mounting sleeve that is rotatably attached to the base section. The drive shaft extends into the sleeve and rotates the sleeve when the power drill is actuated. A drive assembly is positioned within the housing. The drive assembly includes a pair of bolt head receivers. Each of the arm sections has one of the bolt head receivers positioned therein. The arm sections are positioned adjacent to a respective one of the distal ends of the arm sections. Each of the bolt head receivers is mechanically coupled to the sleeve and rotates when the sleeve is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Vincent R. Long
  • Patent number: 7628097
    Abstract: A bolt-tightening tool for tightening two bolts at the same time. The bolt-tightening tool includes a first rotating shaft coupled with a motor shaft and a second rotating shaft coupled with a motor case. A first bolt is tightened with the first rotating shaft, while a second bolt is tightened with the second rotating shaft, whereby the first and the second bolts are tightened with a same amount of torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoaki Tsuyoshi, Yasuyuki Tachino, Chihiro Morimoto
  • Publication number: 20090211404
    Abstract: An apparatus for rotating a tubular, the apparatus, in at least certain aspects including having a plurality of tubular-contacting rollers with one or more pairs of interlaced rollers. This Abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Jan Erik Pedersen, Jonathan Webb, Roar Berge
  • Publication number: 20090178516
    Abstract: A hand tool comprises a support, a handle, at least two spindles, a driver, at least two followers and at least two spanners. The handle is rotatably mounted on a middle portion of the support. The at least two spindles are respectively fixed to two opposite ends of the support by ends thereof. The driver is mounted on an end of the handle. The at least two followers are respectively rotatably attached on another end of each spindle and drivably connected with driver. The at least two spanners are attached on a surface of each follower which is away from the corresponding spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: YU-HAN LU
  • Patent number: 7536934
    Abstract: A ratchet tool is provided. The ratchet tool includes a body having a head and an elongated handle. A gear train and pawl assembly are contained within the head of the body. A switching mechanism also extends into the head of the body and interacts with the pawl assembly. The arrangement and interaction of the body, gear train, pawl assembly and switching mechanism provides for transmission of torque from the ratchet tool in a single direction when the handle is rotated both in clockwise and counterclockwise directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Sears Brands, LLC.
    Inventor: Stephen Michael Tatangelo
  • Publication number: 20090100972
    Abstract: A vehicle toe set adjustment device and method for adjusting a vehicle tie rod includes an adjustment head adapted to be received over a tie rod. The adjustment head includes a surface for engaging a tie rod fastener, a plurality of moveable collet keys mounted on the adjustment head, and a drive member engaging surface. An actuator on the adjustment head moves the collet keys to engage the tie rod after the tie rod is received in the adjustment head. A method is also provided for engaging moveable collet keys on an adjustment head to engage the tie rod for rotation of the tie rod to adjust the toe set of a vehicle wheel. The device and method are useful with a variety of tie rod assemblies on various vehicles having different sized tie rod assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: BURKE E. PORTER MACHINERY COMPANY
    Inventor: Mark S. Hoenke
  • Patent number: 7472475
    Abstract: A screwing station, in particular along an assembly line, comprises at least one machine frame and a screwing tool adjustably supported relative thereto between at least one retracted and one operative position and connected to a supply and, optionally, a measuring line. To improve a screwing station of this type in such a way that less mass has to be moved while the screwing station is of a simple construction, so that wear, maintenance work and energy consumption are reduced and a concurrent movement of supply and measuring lines is prevented at the same time, which might otherwise result in damage to the lines, the screwing tool comprises a drive shaft supported on the machine frame and a wrench head telescopically displaceable relative to said shaft, the drive shaft and wrench head being drivingly connected and the wrench head being movable by means of a lifting and lowering means between retracted and operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Cooper Power Tools GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Werner Andreas Lutz, Herbert Müller
  • Patent number: 7387050
    Abstract: A rotation unit for a torque tong for making and/or breaking threaded connections between pipes and/or spinning pipes during screwing and/or unscrewing of pipes, primarily pipes used in petroleum production. The unit includes a fixed part and a rotary part arranged to grip a pipe to be rotated. The rotary part includes at least one movable gripping jaw arranged to be moved into engagement with the pipe. The rotary part includes toothing arranged to engage at least one chain, which is operatively connected to an actuator in order to move the chain and so impart rotary movement to the rotary part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Aker Kvaerner MH AS
    Inventors: Per Slettedal, Terje Egeland
  • Publication number: 20080121403
    Abstract: A nut runner mounting structure for supporting one or more nut runner spindles includes a spindle supporting base plate, and at least one support pillar extending in parallel with the spindles and secured at its forward end to the base plate and at its rear end to a mounting structure support. Each support pillar has a tube element provided with a forward end piece and a rear end piece, and a tension bolt engaging the rear end piece and the base plate to exert an axial clamping force on the tube element. The forward end piece is formed with sharp edged teeth for penetrating into and forming matching teeth in the tube element and the base plate for locking the tube element against rotation. Clamping units are attachable to the tube elements for carrying additional equipment and connecting the structure to a mounting structure support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: Atlas Copco Tools AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Christer Hansson
  • Patent number: 7077031
    Abstract: A multiple lug nut removal tool includes an air gun that includes a cylindrical housing having a front end. A cover is mounted over the front end. A drive axle is mounted within the housing. A primary gear is attached to the drive axle. A plurality of secondary axles extends through the cover. Each of the secondary axles has a first end positioned within the housing and a second end extending outwardly away from the cover. Each of a plurality of secondary gears is attached to one of the first ends. The secondary gears are each in communication with the primary gear. Each of a plurality of couplers is attached to one of the secondary axles. Each of a plurality of sockets may be attached to one of the secondary axles by the couplers so that the sockets are rotated when the primary gear is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Anthony N. Frederiksen
  • Patent number: 7076852
    Abstract: A conductor torquing system is provided for large diameter threaded conductor casing which comprises a lower chain vise adapted to grip a first joint of conductor casing, a plurality of movable arms operable to apply a retaining force to a second joint of conductor casing to maintain the latter in rotational contact with a spinning means. The spinning means is operable to rotationally make-up the second joint of conductor casing to the first joint of conductor casing to an initial make-up torque value. The apparatus also includes an upper chain vise for gripping the second joint of conductor casing and applying a final make-up torque to the threaded connection. The apparatus will allow a conductor connection to be made-up in a safe and efficient manner and generally assist in reaching the final torque stage more rapidly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Andrew Robert Penman, Peter John Lovegrove
  • Patent number: 6931706
    Abstract: A jig assembly for preparing a disk drive for mounting in a computer comprises a bay arranged to receive a disk drive and a pair of side rails to be fixed to opposite edges of the disk drive. Each side rail has captive screws in register with a respective screw-threaded hole in the edge of the disk drive. Two powered screwdrivers on each side of the bay are in register with the screws and are mounted for movement towards and away from the respective side rail. When the disk drive and rails are loaded into the bay, pneumatic cylinders C1 automatically advance the screwdrivers towards the side rail to engage and rotate the screws to screw the side rails tight against the edge of the disk drive, and then retract the screwdrivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Michael McTague, Fergal Duffy
  • Patent number: 6918322
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multiple screw driving machine comprising a plurality of individual screwdrivers which are arranged on a body or in a housing (8) and which each comprise a spindle or shaft (7) which is rotatably mounted in the housing and which at an outer front end carries a screw driving tool (10) for engagement with a screw means. Each of the screwdrivers are separately drivable by a common motor (1) via a driving wheel transmission comprising a primary driving wheel (5) for each screwdriver. The primary driving wheel (5) is rotatably but non-displaceably mounted on the shaft (7) of the respective screwdrivers whereas a driver element (14) is non-rotatably but displaceably mounted on the shaft (7) and is displaceable with the aid of an operating means (16) towards and away from the primary driving wheel (5). The primary driving wheel (5) and the driver element (14) each have mating and mutually facing engagement means (19, 20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: Sven-Olov Biller
  • Patent number: 6834567
    Abstract: A multiple spindle tool has a single input drive motor and a plurality of output spindles. A gear arrangement including a central gear and three planet gears and three slip clutches are positioned between the drive motor and the output spindles. Each of the slip clutches drives a respective output spindle until a predetermined torque, set at respective clutches, is reached. Each of the slip clutches receives input rotation and torque from respective ones of the planet gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Steven Rosetto
  • Patent number: 6786925
    Abstract: A driver tool drives multiple fasteners simultaneously through the outer ring of a heart valve component into the surrounding tissue annulus of a heart. The driver tool includes two stacked satellite gear layers that drive flexible shafts that simultaneously drive the fasteners into tissue surrounding the heart valve component. The flexible shafts from the second drive gear layer can pass through gaps between satellite gears in the first drive gear layer. The number of fasteners is increased while maintaining the mechanical advantage of the tool and the size of the tool, and reducing the concentration of stress in the tissue annulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Schoon, Eric S. Buchanan