Abstract: The present invention relates to novel automated inspection systems and related methods of use. In particular, the present invention provides an automated threaded fastener inspection system, and related methods of use. Furthermore, the present invention provides systems and methods for identifying damaged threaded fasteners prior to industrial use.

Abstract: A w-based panel fastener for securing a molding to a panel includes a nose and a pair of offset wings extending from the nose. The nose has a longitudinal length, an outer surface, and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. The wings are spaced from each other along the longitudinal length of the nose, and each of the wings includes a guide portion extending from the outer surface of the nose and a retainer portion extending generally from the inner surface of the nose. The spaced apart guide portions of the wings form a surface for initial insertion into the opening in the panel. The retainer portion of the wings is adapted to interfit with the opening in the panel to secure the fastener to the panel.

Abstract: A system is provided for dissipating electrical charges that build on a rotatable shaft extending from an electrically-grounded motor housing or rotating shafts conductively linked to components that create and electrical charge, such as wind turbine blades, power generator turbines, and the like. The system includes a frame defining a central opening wherein the rotatable shaft is positioned with the central opening, a first grounding fiber secured within the frame, and a fiber clamp positioned with the frame. The fiber clamp acts to urge the first grounding fiber toward the central opening. The system may also include a mounting bracket having a frame mounting channel, wherein a portion of the frame is securely retained within the frame mounting channel, and an installation guide positioned on the mounting bracket. The installation guide may be configured to properly align the frame and the first grounding fiber relative to the rotatable motor shaft.

Abstract: The application describes a container, bag, pouch or reusable envelope which is closed by one part (2) locating over a second part (1), the second part(1) having an opening (7) for receiving the head (14) of a breakable seal (13) which locks into the opening in such a manner that it cannot be removed without breaking, the seal (13) in its inserted position locking the first part (2) in place over the second part (1) in a tamper evident fashion. The second part (1) has a shoulder (17) at either side of the opening (7) and the seal (13) has on its underside recesses (19) for registration with the shoulders (17). Typically said one part (2) is the fastener tab of the zipped opening of a reusable envelope and the second part (1) is the enclosure or chamber of a lock unit mounted on the envelope, adjacent one end of the zipped opening.

Abstract: A buckle assembly includes a first housing having first lateral walls, and a second housing having second lateral walls. The second housing securely retains said first housing in a mated position. The first housing disengages from the second housing through manipulation of the first lateral walls at any location along the first lateral walls such that the manipulation of the first lateral walls causes the first housing to disengage from the second housing.

Abstract: A switch assembly includes a base, a flat spring, a switch, and an actuating member. The base includes a central channel. The flat spring may be pivotally secured to a portion of the base. The switch is proximate the flat spring, and is configured to selectively open and close a circuit, such as an ignition circuit of a vehicle. The actuating member is positioned through the central channel and abuts the flat spring. The actuating member is configured to be engaged toward the flat spring in order to activate the switch, wherein movement of the actuating member in a first direction causes the flat spring to move in a second direction into the switch to activate the switch. The first direction may be perpendicular to the second direction.

Abstract: A threaded fastener includes a curved-line path thread provided in a helical pattern along a shank of the fastener. The curved-line path can be provided on either side of the standard straight-line path or on opposite sides of the straight-line path. The curved-line path and can be provided on all or a portion of the thread from near the tip end thereof to near the head end thereof.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for manufacturing a multi-part component that dampens vibration and noise caused by forces acting on the component. A pre-formed first part is treated for application of a resilient material. The material is dissolved in a solvent and is selectively applied to areas of the first part that are subject to strong forces. A second part is mechanically attached to the first part, and the entire component is cured so that the resilient material is cured, the solvent is evaporated and the parts are bonded together.

Abstract: A cancel lever device is disclosed for a door handle mechanism of a motor vehicle. The device includes a cancelling portion having a first and a second side, the cancelling portion being pivotally secured relative to the door handle mechanism about a pivotal axis. The cancelling portion defines a leading edge and a biasing device is provided for biasing the leading edge such that in a first pivotal location thereof, the door handle mechanism is operable and in a second pivotal location of the leading edge, movement of the door handle mechanism is inhibited. The leading edge defines a channel and a bumper is disposed within the channel for cushioning movement of the cancelling portion when the leading edge moves from the second to the first location. The bumper includes a retaining protrusion which cooperates with the channel for retaining the bumper within the channel.

Abstract: A slide tap particularly suitable for use on disposable containers has a valve body with a sliding actuator movable between closed and opened positions of an outlet formed in the body. A spring mechanism returns the actuator to a closed position.

Abstract: A snap-fit fastener having deflectable, diverging wings extending from a distal end of a pedestal is provided with lead-in extensions from the connection of each wing to the pedestal. The extensions define a slot therebetween and are curved relative to the wings. By inserting an implement such as a screwdriver in the slot and twisting the implement, the lead-in extensions are spread relative to each other and the wings are moved toward the pedestal to allow the fastener to be disconnected from an object.

Abstract: A crack test for a tubular structure includes a sensor ring disposed radially outward from a flare pin in a flaring press. The sensor ring is responsive to physical contact from a cracked flared end of a tube processed in the press.

Abstract: A fastener is provided particularly useful for securing automobile headliners to automobile roofs. The fastener includes a clip connectable to the headliner and a magnet assembly that can be secured to the roof. The magnet assembly can tilt relative to the clip.