Patents Issued in March 6, 2003
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Publication number: 20030042064Abstract: A steering rotation angle detecting apparatus of a power steering having a driving force of a motor applied to a steering pinion shaft via a speed reduction mechanism so as to assist a steering, is disclosed. The steering rotation angle detecting apparatus comprises a steering pinion shaft rotation position detecting means for detecting a rotation position of the steering pinion shaft with respect to a fixed member, a motor phase detecting means for detecting cyclic rotation phase states of the motor, and a steering rotation angle detecting means for detecting an absolute rotation angle over 360 degrees of the steering pinion shaft on the basis of a steering pinion shaft rotation position information detected by the steering pinion shaft rotation position detecting means and a motor phase information detected by the motor phase detecting means.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Junya Takekawa, Akira Fujisaki
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Publication number: 20030042065Abstract: In an electric power steering device equipped with an anti-theft function, a steering shaft is surrounded by a coil inside a sensor housing of a torque sensor. A receiving portion is provided on the outer circumference of an upper shaft which is provided as a separate entity to input and output shafts that are capable of mutual elastic relative rotation. This coil is disposed between the receiving portion and an auxiliary steering power transmitting driven gear which is provided on the outer circumference of the steering shaft. The outer diameters of the receiving portion and the driven gear are larger than the inner diameter of the coil. A lock member is received by the receiving portion, whereby the rotation of the steering shaft is restricted.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Koyo Seiko Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tomohiro Maekawa
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Publication number: 20030042066Abstract: A vehicle steering system (10) includes a pinion (30) and a steering member (14) movable axially to turn steerable wheels. The steering member (14) has a rack portion (34) in engagement with the pinion (30) and a screw portion (38). An electric motor (130) includes a rotor (134) and a stator (132). The screw thread portion (38) extends axially through the motor (130). A ball nut (116) rotatable with the rotor (134) is associated with the screw thread portion (38) for effecting axial movement of the steering member (14) in response to rotation of the rotor. An electronic control unit (148) for the motor (130) includes a circuit board (150) and a plurality of electronic components mounted on the circuit board. The circuit board (150) has a non-planar configuration and at least partially encircles a portion of the steering member (14) at a location spaced axially from the electric motor (130).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: TRW Inc.Inventors: Kurt Achenbach, Phil McCune
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Publication number: 20030042067Abstract: An electric power steering device includes a steering link that includes a plurality of connected steering shafts that connect a steering wheel to a steered wheel, a motor that provides a steering torque to assist the steering link, a torque sensor which is mounted to one of the steering shafts and which detects the steering torque of that steering shaft, a steering angle sensor which is mounted to one of the steering shafts and which detects a steering angle of that steering shaft, a calculating unit that calculates a steering assist amount based on the steering torque detected by the torque sensor, the steering angle detected by the steering angle sensor, and predetermined crossed axes angles between the connected steering shafts, and a motor controller that drives the motor so as to apply a steering assist force to the steering link based on the steering assist amount. As a result, it is possible to correct the torque by a simple method.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Akihiro Yanaka
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Publication number: 20030042068Abstract: A speaker assembly includes a speaker mounted within a housing having a front plate and a base plate. The speaker is inclined with respect to the front plate. The base plate includes one of an inclined type structure, a convex type structure, a radial rib type structure having radial ribs, and an uneven structure having projections. The front plate includes holes of certain shapes such as having two half holes formed on opposite sides of front plate and communicating with each other through a common opening formed between the two half holes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Dae-Eop Lee
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Publication number: 20030042069Abstract: A device and a method for reducing or muffling sound from kitchen appliances such as coffee grinders. The sound reducing or muffling device can be left on the appliance even when not in use, providing a decoration to the kitchen in a style appropriate to it's surroundings. Using the muffling device, a person can enjoy fresh-ground coffee at any time with the assurance that the sound from the coffee grinder is well insulated. The device is particularly easy to deploy and use, requires no moving parts, and is flexible enough to work with the majority of coffee grinder products currently on the market. Other embodiments can be used with other forms of kitchen appliances.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Brett Eilers
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Publication number: 20030042070Abstract: A process is provided for filling a muffler shell with fibrous material. The process involves providing a muffler shell comprising first and second muffler shell outer parts which define an internal cavity when coupled together and an internal structure adapted to extend at least part way through the shell internal cavity and having one or more openings communicating with the shell internal cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Luc J. L. Brandt, Leon Charlier
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Publication number: 20030042071Abstract: A flattened [single or dual inlet] acoustic muffler [boom tube exhaust pipe for reducing acoustic noise contained in the exhaust gas flow,] for use on [race cars, such as] stock cars. The muffler [which race on oval tracks, which] mounts to the standard exhaust system pipes and to the lower [frame or] chassis of the car, [and which routes] routing exhaust gasses to one or both sides of the car while providing improved ground clearance between the exhaust pipe and the surface of the race track. [The construction of the boom tube exhaust pipes comprise single or dual slightly flattened circular inlets which lead exhaust gasses into a flattened profile body constructed of formed sheet metal half shells, with the inlets at or above the lower plane of the body. One or more formed sheet metal structural ribs extend through the body and into the inlets and one or more spacer ribs support the half shells within the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Boyd L. Butler
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Publication number: 20030042072Abstract: A stanchion holder for a rooftop safety rail system comprises a clamp having a first stanchion sleeve fixed thereto and an L-shaped adapter having a second stanchion sleeve, whereby a stanchion can be directly inserted into the first stanchion sleeve to extend in a direction orthogonal to a clamping direction of the clamp, or alternatively a male portion of the adapter can be received by the first stanchion sleeve and a stanchion can be inserted into the second stanchion sleeve to extend in a direction parallel to the clamping direction. The stanchion holder of the present invention can be installed either on a parapet or an overhanging ledge rooftop perimeter.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Murray Roofing Company, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery L. Murray
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Publication number: 20030042073Abstract: A maintenance cart for use in an aircraft interior is disclosed. The maintenance cart has a pair of maintenance platforms which are capable of being disposed within the maintenance cart. A linear track mechanism is coupled to the maintenance platform which allows for the deployment of the maintenance platforms within an aircraft. A pair of deployable steps are provided which allow maintenance personnel to move through the maintenance cart to the fore or aft of an aircraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Guy A. Lambiaso
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Publication number: 20030042074Abstract: A rotomolded plastic wall and ladder structure (10, 50, or 58)), which may be an article such as a window well (10) or a manhole (50 or 58), includes a thermoplastic wall (12), a ladder (16) whose rungs (18) each include an elongated metallic core (20) and a thermoplastic sleeve (22). Mold apparatus (70) includes an exterior-contour mold (72), an elongated metallic core (20) having a heating passage (74) therein, and means for flowing hot air through the heating passage (74). The method includes disposing a hollow metallic core in a mold, placing a quantity of a thermoplastic inside a mold, heating the mold, rotating the heated mold, flowing heated air through the hollow metallic core, and bonding a layer of the thermoplastic onto the hollow metallic core.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Carl W. Van Gilst
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Publication number: 20030042075Abstract: A portable hunting and fishing stand assembled from lightweight components. The legs of the stand are connected to a central-bracing mechanism. The bracing mechanism provides strong support for persons using the stand. The central-bracing mechanism includes braces interconnected between the legs of the stand and a central slide. The slide travels along a portion of a slide shaft that is connected to the bottom-side of the stand platform, thus allowing the stand legs to move in concert with one another. Additionally, the stand features a unique foot pad for use in sand, with fluid passages drilled through the outer surface of the foot pad and a concave bottom cavity for use in water with a sandy bottom.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Douglas M. Bench
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Publication number: 20030042076Abstract: A tree stand with level adjustment includes provision for scaling a tree, pole, or the like, for use by a hunter or wildlife observer or photographer, etc. The stand essentially comprises a lower foot rest component and an upper seating component, with each component having a peripheral frame defining a plane. A compressive tree brace member extends from each component and coplanar therewith, with a sloped upper frame member extending from each edge of each component. A flexible tensile member extends from each frame member of each component, for securing about the back of the tree. The tensile member is secured within one sloped member by an adjustably positionable pin for assembly, and within the opposite sloped member by a threaded adjuster for infinitesimally fine adjustment for precise leveling. The tree stand may also include foot rest and hand or arm rest extensions as desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Bruce E. Ulrich
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Publication number: 20030042077Abstract: An oil filter cooler that has an arrangement of circular fins that are permanently incorporated into the top of an oil filter. These fins allow for an increase of heat dissipation of motor oil as it flows through the oil filter thereby, reducing the temperature of the motor oil.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: John B. Gasseling
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Publication number: 20030042078Abstract: The invention relates to an oil collecting arrangement for an internal-combustion engine having an oil collecting housing arranged below a crankcase in which an oil suction space is constructed and at least one oil collecting space adjoins the oil suction space. The oil suction space is separated from the oil collecting space by at least one wall section in which at least one passage opening is arranged which can be controlled by way of a flap. The part of the wall section provided with the return opening is constructed as a plug-in oil separating wall which is fitted in between guiding ribs provided in the oil collecting housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Tobias Baeumler
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Publication number: 20030042079Abstract: A centrifugally activated device for controlling the speed of movement of an elevator cab includes the capability of controlling upward and downward movement. A first stopping device is associated with at least one elevator sheave. A second stopping device preferably is supported on an opposite side of the same sheave. The second stopping device preferably includes centrifugally activated components such as a latch member that moves from a first position into a second, stopping position responsive to an undesirably high speed of upward movement of the elevator cab. The centrifugally activated components preferably include a latch member that is rotatably supported on the sheave and has an engaging member at one end that engages a cooperating stop surface near the sheave to prevent the sheave from further rotation upon the sheave reaching an undesirably high rate of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Luis Marti Sanchez, Fernando Del Rio Sanz, Fernando Santos Cosgaya
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Publication number: 20030042080Abstract: A device for producing information related to a position of an elevator car in an elevator shaft includes a toothed belt having a plurality of teeth spaced along a length of the belt and mounted in an elevator shaft, an encoder mounted on the elevator car and having a toothed wheel for engaging the teeth, and guide rollers mounted on the elevator car and engaging the toothed belt to urge the plurality of teeth into engagement with the toothed wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Urs Lindegegger, Liberto Gentile
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Publication number: 20030042081Abstract: A parking brake device which can not only better the safety, but also reduce the cost by simplifying the construction. A shock absorbing portion 35, 36 which resists an operating force in pulling a brake lever 30 toward the compartment and which is deformed by an impact force in the direction which is approximately opposite to the direction of pulling the brake lever 30 toward the compartment, absorbing the impact force is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Masahiko Komatsubara, Hiroki Ishikawa, Masahiro Imamachi, Satoru Masuda, Shingo Hori, Hiroshi Tsukamoto, Tomoya Sugiyama
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Publication number: 20030042082Abstract: An axle and brake mounting assembly includes a brake carrier secured directly to the axle. In one example, the brake carrier includes a portion that completely surrounds a corresponding portion of the axle. The brake carrier in one example is welded directly to the axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Denis John McCann, James A.E. Mills, Richard Bellingham, Peter Kerslake Gibbens, Royston Leonard Morris, Paul Roberts, Paul Anthony Thomas, Jonathan Leslie Christopher Jackson, Carl Edward Heinlein
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Publication number: 20030042083Abstract: A multi-disk brake and wheel assembly (11) includes a cantilevered wheel axle (13) with a wheel (19) journalled for rotation about the axle and a plurality of brake disks (31, 33, 35, 37) radially surrounding the axle. Alternate ones of the brake disks are angularly fixed to the wheel for rotation wherewith and the disk stack is axially confined between an end disk (41) at one axial end and a pressure plate (43) at the opposite axial end of stack. An axially asymmetrical vibration-reducing torque tube (39) radially surrounds the axle and axially spans the brake disks with intervening ones of the brake disks angularly fixed to the torque tube. The torque tube is cantilevered at one end from a stationary member and has the end disk fixed thereto at the other end thereby axially sandwiching the brake disks between the end disk and pressure plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Fred W. Berwanger
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Publication number: 20030042084Abstract: A brake device provided with a hydraulic type brake mechanism in which a piston operated by hydraulic pressure can press a friction member to a rotatable member and an electric type brake mechanism capable of pressing the friction member to the rotatable member by operation of the piston by an electric motor. Further, the brake device includes a force converting mechanism provided at the inside of the piston for converting rotation of an operating shaft connected to the electric motor into movement of the piston in an axial direction of the rotatable member, and a drive portion of the electric brake mechanism having the electric motor and an elastic member arranged substantially coaxially between a pair of opposed rotating members for transmitting rotational force of the electric motor and the operating shaft is connected attachably to and detachably from one of the rotating members.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuo Kawase, Masaaki Tanaka, Kimio Takahashi, Yoshihiko Suzuki, Kazuhiro Sekiguchi
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Publication number: 20030042085Abstract: An automobile brake caliper for reducing noise is disclosed. An elastic member is installed so that elastic forces can act between the respective components. Thus, when the automobile generates vibrations while running over a rough terrain, the adjacent components avoid frictional contact, thereby eliminating any impact noise.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Dong-Hoon Kang
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Publication number: 20030042086Abstract: A dynamic damper for absorbing vibrations in a rotary driveshaft, including a mass member assembly having a plurality of mass members, each mass member having an inner surface, an outer surface, and an affixing member to affix the mass member to another mass member of the assembly, the mass member assembly being affixable to a rotary shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Mick A. Nylander, Gary Grabaum
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Publication number: 20030042087Abstract: A dampener including a valve movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively alter the compression damping rate of the shock absorber. The valve may include a self-centering feature which operates to keep the valve body centered about the valve shaft. The dampener may also include a timer feature, which retains the valve in an open position for a predetermined period of time after it is initially opened.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Robert C. Fox
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Publication number: 20030042088Abstract: A force absorption device is proposed which serves for receiving and diverting forces in bridge constructions in particular. Said device includes a housing (2) with at least one hydraulic liquid chamber (5). In said hydraulic liquid chamber (5) a movable hydraulic piston (3) is supported which is guided by a piston rod (4). In this manner forces acting on said hydraulic piston (3) are transmitted to said hydraulic liquid. In addition at least one compensation chamber (11) connected to said hydraulic liquid chamber (5) and filled with hydraulic liquid is provided for, which chamber can be changed in its volume in dependence on the density of said hydraulic liquid. Therein, said piston rod (4) at least partly is build in hollow shape for forming said compensation chamber (11) in the interior of said housing (2) and/or in said piston rod (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Maurer Sohne GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Christian Braun, Johann Distl
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Publication number: 20030042089Abstract: A liquid-sealed vibration-proof device capable of avoiding leakage of liquid upon press fitting of an outer cylinder is provided. An intermediate ring interposed between the outer cylinder and an antivibratory base is formed at its outer circumferential surface with two projecting streaks, the one on liquid chambers side being formed with cutouts. When the outer cylinder is press fitted to an attachment opening of a vehicle body, the liquid confined in a space enclosed between both projecting streaks can escape to the liquid chambers, so that liquid never leaks outside.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Toyo Tire & Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuyuki Tamura, Shunichi Shinobu
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Publication number: 20030042090Abstract: An extensible pedestal for mounting to two sides of the bottom of a trunk to form a secured and steady support for the trunk comprises a base frame, a slide plate, a control member and an upper lid. The base frame has a housing chamber for holding a spring and two side walls located at two sides each having a slot to allow a flank ledge located at either of two sides of the slide plate to slide therein. The slide plate has a latch ledge located between the flank ledges with a latch notch formed at one end of the latch ledge to engage with a brake stub located on the bottom side of the upper lid. The control member has a compression strut located at a rear end to press the top surface of the latch ledge. The upper lid is mounted to the top of the base frame. The slide plate is slidable in the slots of the base frame for extension or retraction.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: I-Hsin Wang
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Publication number: 20030042091Abstract: An improved luggage container for carrying a container comprises a first compartment having at least front, rear and side surfaces and a second compartment formed on a first side surface of the first compartment. The second compartment has a cover defining and providing access to the second compartment and an outer layer attached inside the second compartment. The outer layer defines a top opening for receiving therein the container such that the outer layer is deployed by opening the cover of the second compartment, and when the second compartment is closed, the outer layer is completely enclosed within the second compartment. The cover of the second compartment uses a rear side edge of the first compartment as a pivoting axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Luggage America, Inc.Inventor: Scott Oh
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Publication number: 20030042092Abstract: An extensible anchoring apparatus for a multi-section pulling bar of a trunk has an anchoring means located in a pulling bar means to allow the pulling bar positioned securely at the retracted condition. The pulling bar means includes a handle having two ends each has a bottom side fastened to an inner tube with a linkage bar located therein. The inner tube is housed in a middle tube and the middle tube is housed in an outer tube. The tubes have respectively latch bores formed on the tubular walls. The outer tube further has an anchor bore located at the bottom section. The anchoring apparatus comprises an upper anchoring means located at a lower end of the inner tube and a lower anchoring means located at a lower end of the middle tube. The lower anchoring means has a lower engaging seat which has a coupling bore and an aperture formed on the side walls for housing a lower extensible button.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Chien-Shan Wang
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Publication number: 20030042093Abstract: A luggage bag has a wide mouth construction with reinforced back and bottom panels and a telescoping handle and wheels integrated into the reinforced back panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Donald E. Godshaw, Andrezj M. Redzisz
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Publication number: 20030042094Abstract: A handle grip of a trunk comprising an upper cover unit and a seat unit receiving in the upper cover unit. Thereby, the seam of the seat unit and the upper cover unit are placed on a top of the handle grip and the stomach portion of the seat unit has no seam. Therefore, when it is held, the hand of the user will not be in contact with the seam of the seat unit and the upper cover unit so as to have a preferred handling feeling.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Chaw Khong Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jer Hong Lin, Boon Hwa Lau
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Publication number: 20030042095Abstract: A luggage article including first rollers and selectively deployable or nondeployable second rollers. The luggage article includes a handle that is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The user can selectively deploy or not deploy the second rollers even when the handle is in the extended position. An improved detent device and also an improved caster system are also disclosed. Also, a wheeled panel mechanism by itself for use not only with luggage but also other articles such as carts, dollies and baby carriages, is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Paolo M.B. Tiramani, John A. Bozak
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Publication number: 20030042096Abstract: A cable management system includes an opposed pair of articulated A-frame support assemblies that are connected by a cable support platform, such as a roller. The A-frame support assemblies may be reach between an electrical system chassis and an equipment rack in a manner that permits the elevation of the cable support platform to change concomitant with extensile and de-extensile motion of the electrical system chassis relative to the equipment rack. This change in elevation manages slack in the cable to feed cable forwardly during extensile motion of the electrical system chassis and to pull cable rearwardly with de-extensile motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Martha G. Peterson, Brent A. Boudreaux, Patrick Wesley Clark, Scott Stuart Smith, Michael Jay Zalta, Lee Thomas Van Laren
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Publication number: 20030042097Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a laptop computer to a communications network for access by a seated user in a mobile platform. A cord reel assembly within the seat headrest includes a user interface retractable through the headrest and a user connector for connecting the laptop thereto. A connector to the network is situated below the seat. A seat interface extends from the cord reel assembly through the seat to the network connector. The apparatus provides an ethernet connection between the laptop and the network. The apparatus allows each seated passenger having a laptop to connect to an on-board communications network. The apparatus is for the most part hidden from view beneath the passenger seat.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Donald B. Lee
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Publication number: 20030042098Abstract: A torque converter provided with a lock-up clutch and including a pump impeller, a turbine runner, a turbine hub, a stator, a clutch piston rotatable with the turbine runner and cooperating with the pump impeller to define an engaging chamber, a front cover cooperating with the clutch piston to define a releasing chamber and a friction member attached to the front cover, and wherein the lock-up clutch is placed in a slipping state for slipping engagement between the clutch piston and the front cover through the friction member, by a controlled difference between pressures of a working fluid in the engaging and releasing chambers, and the pump impeller and the stator cooperate to define of a first and a second fluid passage both of which communicate with the engaging chamber, while the stator and the turbine hub cooperate with each other to define the other of the first and second fluid passages, and wherein the lock-up clutch is brought into the slipping state with a supply flow of the fluid into the engagingType: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hiroaki Takeuchi, Hisashi Watanabe, Masanori Iritani
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Publication number: 20030042099Abstract: A clutch has a rotatable input, a rotatable output, a spring and a damper mechanism. The rotatable input is capable of being rotated and of being held stationary. The spring is coupled to the input such that each time the input changes modes the spring changes states. The damper mechanism allows the spring to change states without rotating the input. The rotatable output is positioned relative to the spring such that the output synchronously rotates with the input when the spring is in the first state and rotates independently of the input when the spring is in the second state.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Reell Precision Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Joseph E. Arnold, Ted J. Perron
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Publication number: 20030042100Abstract: A freewheel hub device comprises a spindle. A hub, a ratchet, a freewheel, an annular cover, and a sealing washer are sequentially arranged along the spindle. A flange extends from the freewheel at a position with respect to the inner lateral side of the hub. A ball ring encloses the flange so as to position the ratchet. The recess is installed at another end of the hub. An inner periphery of the recess is installed with a plurality of retaining grooves and first texture recesses. An inner side of the recess is arranged with a ratchet ring. The flange extending from the freewheel is engaged with a positioning ratchet pawl. The ratchet ring is installed with a groove. After the ball ring and ratchet are engaged with the flange. The flange and the ratchet ring are installed in the recess of the hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Shu-Chen Juan
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Publication number: 20030042101Abstract: A freewheel hub device comprises a spindle. A hub, a ratchet, a freewheel, an annular cover, and a sealing washer are sequentially arranged along the spindle. A flange extends from the freewheel at a position with respect to the inner lateral side of the hub. A bearing encloses the flange so as to position the ratchet. The recess is installed at another end of the hub. An inner periphery of the recess is installed with a plurality of retaining grooves and first texture recesses. An inner side of the recess is arranged with a ratchet ring. The flange extending from the freewheel is engaged with a positioning ratchet pawl. The ratchet ring is installed with a groove. After the bearing and ratchet are engaged with the flange. The flange and the ratchet ring are installed in the recess of the hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Shu-Chen Juan
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Publication number: 20030042102Abstract: A clutch travel stop limits the amount of vehicular clutch travel adjustment normally permitted for compensating clutch component wear. The stop is attached to a centrifugal weight and roller clutch actuation module to control the amount of permissible wear of clutch components including, for example, friction plate linings. In one embodiment, the stop is defined by a protuberance, such as an integrally formed radially extending lug integrally affixed to an outer circumferential periphery of the housing of the centrifugal module. The lug is positioned to arrest relative movement between respective flanges of a clutch cover and the centrifugal module to limit adjustment of the clutch so that an over-adjustment condition is avoided. Potential damage to critical clutch components is thereby minimized, such as damage to flywheel and pressure plate components caused by fasteners that become exposed after clutch linings retained by the fasteners to the friction disc have become worn.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventor: Martin E. Kummer
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Publication number: 20030042103Abstract: A friction clutch having a wear compensation device is provided that includes a cover assembly that is secured to a flywheel of an internal combustion engine for rotation therewith. A pressure plate is arranged in the cover assembly and is urged by a spring member toward the flywheel. At least one friction plate is arranged between the pressure plate and the flywheel enabling the pressure plate to provide a clamping force to press the friction plate against the flywheel. The wear compensation device includes two cooperating annular members that are changeable along their axial dimension to compensate for the increased distance between the pressure plate and the friction plate due to wear in the clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventors: Daniel V. Gochenour, Martin E. Kummer, Troy Reinoehl
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Publication number: 20030042104Abstract: A hydraulic clutch including: a gear rotatably mounted on a transmission shaft and a clutch cylinder fixedly mounted on the transmission shaft; a first group of friction elements respectively and relatively non-rotatably supported on the gear and the clutch cylinder in such a manner as to be slidable along an axis of the clutch; a pressure disk disposed opposite to the first group of friction elements; a spring for moving the pressure disk towards the first group of friction elements to bring the friction elements into engagement with each other; a piston disposed in such a manner as to be sidable along the axis of the clutch on the opposite side of the pressure disk with the first group of friction elements therebetween, thereby forming a hydraulic fluid chamber within the clutch cylinder; an operation disk disposed in such a manner as to be sidable along the axis of the clutch between the piston and the first group of friction elements; and an interlocking rod extending along the axis of the clutch for inteType: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Mizuya Matsufuji, Takumi Fujita
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Publication number: 20030042105Abstract: A clutch ramp reaction plate is adapted to be positioned adjacent a centrifugal actuation module of a centrifugally actuated vehicular clutch. The ramp reaction plate includes attached individually machined ramp segments manufactured separately from the ramp reaction plate. In one embodiment, the ramp segments are made from a powdered metal process to assure uniform tolerances. In an alternate embodiment, the ramp segments are formed of hardened stamped steel material. The ramp reaction plate is machined to accept the segments, which includes a surface hardness higher than that of the ramp reaction plate to accommodate wear resistance. The ramp segments can be impregnated with lubricants or polytetrafluoroethylene materials to reduce rolling friction and wear between the ramp surfaces and mass weight rollers of the centrifugal actuation module that interacts with the ramp surfaces. The segments are attached to the ramp reaction plate by means of fasteners including bolts, rivets, or adhesives.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventors: Martin E. Kummer, James R. Hockemeyer, Troy S. Reinoehl, Gregory Papp
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Publication number: 20030042106Abstract: A clutch is provided that includes a sleeve having a retainer movable along a rotational axis. A clutch member, such as an adjusting ring, is movable along the rotational axis. The clutch member includes a perch spaced from the rotational axis protruding from a surface on the clutch member. The perch includes first and second opposing outer walls with the second outer wall extending from the surface on an angle toward the first outer wall. A lever including a portion having a slot is supported on the perch by the slot. The slot includes first and second opposing inner walls proximate to the first and second outer walls, respectively, with the first inner wall forming an apex with a first face of the lever adjacent to the surface. The apex defines a lever fulcrum about which the lever pivots. A connector secured to the clutch member with a portion of the second end portion arranged between the connector and the clutch member for retaining the second portion against the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Andrzej Szadkowski, Ronald B. Morford, Muneer Abusamra
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Publication number: 20030042107Abstract: A drive reaction plate for insertion between a ramp plate and a centrifugal actuation module of a centrifugally actuated vehicular clutch. The annular body of the reaction plate is secured to the ramp plate, while an interior diameter of the reaction plate includes drive straps for resilient attachment to the centrifugal module. The straps are adapted to flex upon clutch engagement, to unflex upon clutch release, and to dampen torsional vibrations between the clutch ramp plate and the centrifugal actuation module. The reaction plate includes openings for ramp segments of the ramp plate, and the ramp segments extend into the plate openings to maintain angular locations of the segments relative to cooperating rollers of the centrifugal module. The reaction plate is formed of thin spring metal, and is bolted or riveted directly to the ramp plate to avoid misalignment of the reaction plate during the useful life of the clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventor: Daniel V. Gochenour
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Publication number: 20030042108Abstract: A centrifugal master friction clutch having an installation device is provided that includes a cover assembly fixed for rotation with an engine flywheel and at least one friction plate fixed for rotation with a transmission input shaft. The cover assembly includes a pressure plate for applying a clamping force against the friction plate and a plurality of flyweights that rotate outward under the effects of centrifugal force to cause the pressure plate to exert a clamping force against the friction plate. The clutch installation device includes a first member rotatably disposed in the cover assembly radially inward of the flyweights. A portion of the first member is configured to engage at least one of the flyweights to force the engaged flyweight to rotate outward. A second member is included for engagably limiting the degree of rotation of the first member. A method of installing a centrifugal clutch is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventors: Daniel V. Gochenour, Martin E. Kummer
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Publication number: 20030042109Abstract: A mechanism useful as a slip clutch or brake comprises a first member having a cylindrical inner wall, a second generally cylindrical member received coaxial within the first member and at least one third generally annular member between the first and second members and having frictional engagement with the inner wall of the first member. The second member has a longitudinal recess defined by a chordal wall or walls on radii from the longitudinal axis of the second member. The at least one third member has its ends bent inwardly forming arms extending inwardly into the recess and arranged to be contacted by or contact one of the recess defining walls upon rotation of one of said first and second members. Upon rotation of the first member as a driving member, the second member is driven through the frictional contact of the third member with the inner wall and the arms of the at least one third member acting on the recess defining walls.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Phillip H. Bacon
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Publication number: 20030042110Abstract: A coin acceptor produces an output or operates a switch or vending mechanism when a coin acceptor slide reaches a certain point of advance relative to a housing. The slide receives coins or tokens tendered by a customer (“coins”) and carries the coins into a discriminator responsive to size, shape or the like. The discriminator can have feeler levers, a limited passage size or similar features that permit the slide to advance if all the correct coins are present, or obstruct movement of the slide if coins are missing or are the wrong type. The discriminator is breakable with sufficient force, which could break away the feeler levers or other test structures the obstruct movement unless the correct coins are in place, which would permit the slide to be operated repeatedly without the correct coins.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventor: Evan C. Wilfong
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Publication number: 20030042111Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for inverting a lugged strip to a desired orientation without the necessity of manhandling the strip and potentially damaging the strip or any of the lugs. The apparatus has a semi-circular tube through which the strip travels. Within the tube, to assist the strip, is a conveyor. The conveyor is mounted on the larger diameter side of the semi-circular tube. The strip is moved from an unloader and into an opening of the inverter with the lugs. The strip makes contact with the far wall of the tube and then is forced to travel along the semi-circular path of the tube. Due to the forced curve and turning of the strip, the strip is inverted.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Ronald Alan Wellman, Kent Alan Stubbendieck, Mario Antonio Rago
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Publication number: 20030042112Abstract: A part supply step feeder or flighted belt conveyor lifts parts from a hopper in a metered fashion to a transfer area, and there supplies parts to a vibratory feeder, which carries the parts from the transfer area through orientation features to an output end. If a part does not achieve the correct orientation before reaching the output end, then at some point it is rejected, passively or actively, preferably back to the part supply hopper, by gravity or by a conveyor, for example.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Klaus D. Woerner, Robert A. Kinsie, Jeffrey C. Perkins
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Publication number: 20030042113Abstract: The present invention provides a conveying apparatus for conveying in a predetermined direction loads supported on pallets in a drying furnace or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Daifuku Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masao Kasagi