Patents by Inventor William L. Gabriel

William L. Gabriel 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).

  • Publication number: 20190170176
    Abstract: A method for making a plated spline nail includes plating an elongated wire with a corrosion resistant material, passing the wire through a forming machine having rollers configured with protrusions formed thereon and extending outwardly therefrom to form grooves in the wire. cutting the wire to a desired length and forming a head, and a point on the wire to form the nail. The nail may have ring shanks formed therein after the head and point are formed. A lubricant may be applied to the nail and/or the forming machine prior to forming the ring shanks and/or prior to passing the wire through the forming machine to form the grooves in the wire. A nail formed by pre-plating the wire, and a nail formed by the method are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2019
    Publication date: June 6, 2019
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Kenn C. Prinds, Donald E. Bergstrom, Guenther R. Kram
  • Patent number: 10197082
    Abstract: A method for making a plated spline nail includes plating an elongated wire with a corrosion resistant material, passing the wire through a forming machine having rollers configured with protrusions formed thereon and extending outwardly therefrom to form grooves in the wire. cutting the wire to a desired length and forming a head, and a point on the wire to form the nail. The nail may have ring shanks formed therein after the head and point are formed. A lubricant may be applied to the nail and/or the forming machine prior to forming the ring shanks and/or prior to passing the wire through the forming machine to form the grooves in the wire. A nail formed by pre-plating the wire, and a nail formed by the method are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Kenn C. Prinds, Donald E. Bergstrom, Guenther R. Kram
  • Publication number: 20160312814
    Abstract: A method for making a plated spline nail includes plating an elongated wire with a corrosion resistant material, passing the wire through a forming machine having rollers configured with protrusions formed thereon and extending outwardly therefrom to form grooves in the wire. cutting the wire to a desired length and forming a head, and a point on the wire to form the nail. The nail may have ring shanks formed therein after the head and point are formed. A lubricant may be applied to the nail and/or the forming machine prior to forming the ring shanks and/or prior to passing the wire through the forming machine to form the grooves in the wire. A nail formed by pre-plating the wire, and a nail formed by the method are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: October 27, 2016
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Kenn C. Prinds, Donald E. Bergstrom, Guenther R. Kram
  • Patent number: 8920094
    Abstract: A nail having an offset head is configured with a multi-step support gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the head. A first portion of the gusset defines an angle relative to the shank axis and the second portion of the gusset defines an angle relative to the shank axis different from that of the first portion. The support gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Zafar I. Ali, Donald E. Bergstrom, William L. Gabriel
  • Patent number: 8740714
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Patent number: 8511961
    Abstract: A fastener and a method for reducing wear on a driver blade in a fastening tool includes applying a layer of solid-based lubricant between the head of a fastener and a driver blade end. The fastener is for use in a fastening tool and includes a head, a shank, and a layer of lubricant on the head of the fastener. The lubricant is graphite, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, boron nitride, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nano-diamonds, calcium stearate, sodium stearate, oils, greases, waxes, thermoplastic polymers, or another lubricant that exhibits similar characteristics. Aromatic polyamides (such as Kevlar™), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, powdered glass, glass fibers, thermoplastic polymers, and thermoset polymers also are contemplate to provide a barrier to contact between the driver blade and fastener head. The lubricant is sprayed, rolled, brushed, blotted or otherwise applied between the head of the fastener and the driver blade end prior to firing the fastening tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Christopher A. Horst, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Patent number: 8480500
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Patent number: 8100618
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Publication number: 20110098123
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Publication number: 20110098122
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Publication number: 20110081220
    Abstract: A fastener and a method for reducing wear on a driver blade in a fastening tool includes applying a layer of solid-based lubricant between the head of a fastener and a driver blade end. The fastener is for use in a fastening tool and includes a head, a shank, and a layer of lubricant on the head of the fastener. The lubricant is graphite, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, boron nitride, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nano-diamonds, calcium stearate, sodium stearate, oils, greases, waxes, thermoplastic polymers, or another lubricant that exhibits similar characteristics. Aromatic polyamides (such as Kevlar™), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, powdered glass, glass fibers, thermoplastic polymers, and thermoset polymers also are contemplate to provide a barrier to contact between the driver blade and fastener head. The lubricant is sprayed, rolled, brushed, blotted or otherwise applied between the head of the fastener and the driver blade end prior to firing the fastening tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Christopher A. Horst, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Publication number: 20100183403
    Abstract: A nail having an offset head is configured with a multi-step support gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the head. A first portion of the gusset defines an angle relative to the shank axis and the second portion of the gusset defines an angle relative to the shank axis different from that of the first portion. The support gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Zafar I. Ali, Donald E. Bergstrom, William L. Gabriel
  • Publication number: 20100014941
    Abstract: A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Zafar I. Ali, Alvis H. Ferrell, Daniel P. McDonald, James W. Robinson, Donald E. Bergstrom
  • Publication number: 20030167596
    Abstract: A carpet strip assembly has a plurality of two-legged or two-pronged staples fixedly secured therein wherein the staples are arranged within an array comprising two or three longitudinally offset rows of staple fasteners. In this manner, the number of fastener points per lineal foot of the carpet strip is increased, as compared to the number of fastener points per lineal foot of a conventional carpet strip by approximately twenty to twenty-five per cent (20-25%). In addition, the cross-sectional configuration of each one of the legs or prongs of each two-pronged or two-legged staple is substantially rectangular such that the resistance to bending forces is effectively enhanced four-fold. Still further, in view of the fact that the two prongs or legs of each staple are integrally connected together by means of a transversely extending bridge or crown portion, pull-out resistance of the staples, with respect to the carpet strip, is significantly enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: William L. Gabriel
  • Patent number: 6604665
    Abstract: A collation strip for use within a nail gun is fabricated from a suitable polypropylene composition and has a relatively large thickness dimension, however, in order to impart enhanced flexibility to the thickened collation strip, the collation strip is provided with a plurality of auxiliary apertures within its spine section, or alternatively within its spine and hinged sections. Such enhanced flexibility permits the collation strip to be utilized under relatively low temperature conditions such that the collation strip will not experience jamming within the nail gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventor: William L. Gabriel
  • Publication number: 20030057250
    Abstract: A collation strip for use within a nail gun is fabricated from a suitable polypropylene composition and has a relatively large thickness dimension, however, in order to impart enhanced flexibility to the thickened collation strip, the collation strip is provided with a plurality of auxiliary apertures within its spine section, or alternatively within its spine and hinged sections. Such enhanced flexibility permits the collation strip to be utilized under relatively low temperature conditions such that the collation strip will not experience jamming within the nail gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: William L. Gabriel
  • Patent number: 6394268
    Abstract: A collation strip, and a collation strip assembly, comprises a plurality of fasteners upon which a plurality of collar members are disposed, the collar members being interconnected by means of a plurality of web members. Undersurface portions of the collar members are adapted to support the collation strip assembly upon rail members of a tool magazine, and in addition, the collar members have annular guide ring portions which cooperate with head portions of the fasteners so as to guide the fasteners in a two-point axially spaced manner within the nosepiece bore of the tool so as to ensure coaxial disposition of the fasteners within the bore throughout their driven movement through the bore by means of a tool driving blade assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. Dill, William L. Gabriel
  • Patent number: 6000893
    Abstract: An angled strips of brads with a plurality of cohered brads having a shank with a tip portion. A head portion of at least some of the plurality of brads having a bulge protruding forwardly from the leading side thereof and extending at least partially into the trailing side of the head portion of an adjacent brad. An upper leading side portion of the head portions of the plurality of brads offset rearwardly of the leading side of the shank, whereby interlocking of adjacent head portions of the angled strip of brads is reduced. The rearwardly biased head portion is formed preferably with a rearwardly sloped riser portion of a header punch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Gabriel, Geronimo E. Lat, Patrick J. Driscoll, Michael A. Reinhart
  • Patent number: 5882405
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a coating on the exterior surfaces of a plurality of elongate members, such as wires, including positioning a plurality of elongate members substantially parallel to each other, coating the exterior surfaces of each member with a coating, removing any excess coating from desired portions of each member and curing the coating to adhere the coating to each member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick A Kish, Parimal M Vadhar, Robert W Wright, William L Gabriel, Geronimo E Lat
  • Patent number: 5875538
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a coating on the exterior surfaces of a plurality of elongate members, such as wires, including positioning a plurality of elongate members substantially parallel to each other, coating the exterior surfaces of each member with a coating, removing any excess coating from desired portions of each member and curing the coating to adhere the coating to each member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick A. Kish, Parimal M. Vadhar, Robert W. Wright, William L. Gabriel, Geronimo E. Lat