Patents by Inventor Karol Knoll

Karol Knoll 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).

  • Patent number: 11979006
    Abstract: An apparatus for interlocking the connection handle of a module for a motor control center (MCC) engages a locking plate to prevent inadvertent motion of the connection handle. When the apparatus is not pressed, it allows the locking plate to fully engage the connection handle, preventing the connection handle from changing position. When the apparatus is in a first angular orientation, it may only be pressed into the module for a first depth. At the first depth, the apparatus engages the locking plate to allow the connection handle to transition between an off position and a test position. When the apparatus is rotated to a second angular orientation, it may be pressed into the module for a second depth. At the second depth, the apparatus causes the locking plate to disengage the connection handle, allowing the connection handle to be moved between any desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2024
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Damian Najdek, Karol Knoll
  • Patent number: 11903154
    Abstract: An apparatus to retain modules within a Motor Control Center (MCC) includes a plate mounted to each side of the module housing and at least one spring mounted to each plate within the module housing. The plate includes a hook at one end which connects to and pivots about an opening in the module while retaining the plate to the module. The plate also includes a retaining member extending through an opening in the module housing and configured to receive one end of the spring. The spring is under tension when connected between the retaining member of the plate and the module housing, pulling the retaining member toward the module housing. A biasing member which engages the housing of the MCC as the module is inserted is compressed toward the module during insertion. The spring pushes the biasing member outward after insertion, positively retaining the module to the MCC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Karol Knoll, Damian Najdek
  • Publication number: 20220224085
    Abstract: An apparatus for interlocking the connection handle of a module for a motor control center (MCC) engages a locking plate to prevent inadvertent motion of the connection handle. When the apparatus is not pressed, it allows the locking plate to fully engage the connection handle, preventing the connection handle from changing position. When the apparatus is in a first angular orientation, it may only be pressed into the module for a first depth. At the first depth, the apparatus engages the locking plate to allow the connection handle to transition between an off position and a test position. When the apparatus is rotated to a second angular orientation, it may be pressed into the module for a second depth. At the second depth, the apparatus causes the locking plate to disengage the connection handle, allowing the connection handle to be moved between any desired position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Publication date: July 14, 2022
    Inventors: Damian Najdek, Karol Knoll
  • Publication number: 20220225518
    Abstract: An apparatus to retain modules within a Motor Control Center (MCC) includes a plate mounted to each side of the module housing and at least one spring mounted to each plate within the module housing. The plate includes a hook at one end which connects to and pivots about an opening in the module while retaining the plate to the module. The plate also includes a retaining member extending through an opening in the module housing and configured to receive one end of the spring. The spring is under tension when connected between the retaining member of the plate and the module housing, pulling the retaining member toward the module housing. A biasing member which engages the housing of the MCC as the module is inserted is compressed toward the module during insertion. The spring pushes the biasing member outward after insertion, positively retaining the module to the MCC.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Publication date: July 14, 2022
    Inventors: Karol Knoll, Damian Najdek