Patents by Inventor George R. Schmidt, Jr.

George R. Schmidt, Jr. has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Offset tie rod end
    Patent number: 5503418
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving the pivot point of an automobile steering mechanism. Tie rod connecting link (20) replaces an original equipment tie rod end. Connecting link (20) has a connecting link boss (22). Tie rod socket assembly (30) connects boss (22) with steering knuckle (40). Socket assembly (30) is comprised of stationary stud (36), socket (34), articulating stud (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Schmidt, Jr., Pete Rauch, Timothy J. McDonough
  • Methods and apparatus for facilitating a measurement taken from a vehicle wheel axis
    Patent number: 5398419
    Abstract: In order to check a vehicle for sagged coil springs, vertical distances are measured between the axis of each wheel and a predetermined location on the vehicle body, e.g., the underside of the fender. Those measured distances are compared with established values for that vehicle make and model. To facilitate that measurement a tool is elastically bent and the ends of the tool are mounted by friction-fit against the inside periphery of a wheel rim. The bent tool forms a convex bulge, the apex of which is aligned with the wheel axis and is disposed in or near a vertical plane in which the measurement is to be made. A reference mark provided at the apex of the bulge facilitates a measurement with a ruled tape measure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Schmidt, Jr., James P. Clarke, Jr.