Abstract: A chuck for receiving a working tool driven by a power tool includes a hollow cylindrical sleeve (4) for receiving the working tool (2), strip-shaped, rotation-transmitting webs (5a, 5b) projecting radially inward from the receiving sleeve (4), at least one radially displaceable locking member (7a); at least two guide members (9a, 9b) provided in a working tool-side guide region (F) of the guide diameter (D) of the receiving sleeve and spaced from the rotation-transmitting webs (5a, 5b), and a manually rotatable clamping sleeve (8a) for displacing the guide members (9a, 9b) radially inwardly.

Abstract: A chuck has a drive shaft, a generally rotatable housing part adjacent the drive shaft, and a chuck body fixed to and rotatable with the shaft and formed with a plurality of guides holding respective jaws shiftable between closely spaced inner positions and widely spaced outer positions. An adjustment sleeve surrounding the body and coupled to the jaws can rotate relative to the body to shift the jaws between their positions. A latch has interengaging formations on the housing part and on the adjustment sleeve manually shiftable between a coupled position for rotationally locking the adjustment sleeve to the housing part and a decoupled position for rotation of the adjustment sleeve relative to the housing part. A torque coupler connected to the latch decouples the latch from the housing when, in the coupled position, a torque exerted between the housing and the chuck body exceeds a predetermined limit.

Abstract: A chuck has a generally cylindrical body member having a nose section and a tail section. The tail section is configured to mate with the drive shaft so that the body rotates with the drive shaft. The nose section has an axial bore formed therein and a plurality of jaws is slidably positioned to engage a bit within the axial bore. Each of the jaws has a bit engaging jaw face formed thereon. One or more centering members are disposed adjacent to the jaws. The members are deformable from a first position where the members define a through passage configured to accept a bit, which has a drive shaft diameter less than a predefined diameter. The members are further configured to be deformable to a second position upon the insertion of a bit, which has a diameter greater than the predefined diameter, into the axial bore.

Abstract: An arming signal for enabling deployment of rollover safety devices by a vehicle rollover detection apparatus is based on an off-axis measure of vehicle acceleration. A low-g accelerometer mounted perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle but at an angle with respect to Earth's ground plane detects components of both lateral and vertical vehicle accelerations. The measurement angle is selected to apportion the lateral vs. vertical measurement sensitivity in accordance with calibrated lateral and vertical acceleration thresholds, and an arming signal is generated when a filtered version of the measured acceleration exceeds an arming threshold.

Abstract: A method for operating active stabilizers in a motor vehicle includes an on-road mode and an off-road mode. In the on-road mode a stabilizer is activated and deactivated in dependence on operating parameters of the motor vehicle, in particular the travel speed and/or the lateral acceleration and/or a level sensor system, wherein in the activated state rolling motions of the vehicle are reduced by introducing torque into the stabilizer or stabilizers that counteracts the rolling motion. In the off-road mode, the stabilizer is deactivated up to a given travel speed or, in case of an alternate jouncing of the wheels, a control of the stabilizer is performed such that a downward force of the rebounding wheel is increased. Wheel slip may be used as a parameter when controlling the stabilizers. A motor vehicle having active stabilizers is also provided.

Abstract: A creeper apparatus is provided that includes a body portion with a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The body portion has a first end with first and second angled portions that extend so as to reduce the transverse length of the first end. The body portion has first and second side portions that extend from the first end and are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The body portion also has a second end that extends from the first and second side portions along with a pair of casters that are attached to the body portion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for lowering and raising the floor bed of a transport trailer to facilitate loading and unloading, the transport trailer having at least one pair of wheels mounted on a swing arm, the swing arm connected to a transverse axle, the transverse axle having mounted thereon a first quarter bevel gear in communication with a worm drive gear combination for raising and lowering the swing arms and thus raising or lowering the trailer bed, there being at least one second quarter bevel gear and worm drive gear combination in communication with a motor and a V-shaped yoke, the worm gears being mounted on a common shaft extending from the motor rearwardly to a manual coupling which would permit the manual lowering and raising of the trailer bed in the absence of motor power.

Abstract: A skateboard includes a deck with two trucks connected to an underside of the deck and each truck has a case with two axles so that two rollers are rotatably connected to the two axles. Two protection members are connected to the two cases respectively and at least one cushion member is connected between respective one of the protection members and respective one of the cases. A rolling shaft is connected each of the two protection members and includes a mediate section which extends out from an opening of the protection member corresponding thereto so as to provide smooth grinding.

Abstract: A steering knuckle structure is incorporated with an upright pipe and a shaft wherein the upright pipe is able to twist. The steering knuckle structure comprises a fastener, a sleeve and a pair of lids. A connector is provided at the bottom of the upright pipe. The sleeve has its two ends covered by the lids. The shaft is pivotally connected to the lids. The sleeve comprises a connecting seat transversely secured at the center portion thereon. The connecting seat comprises a pair of protruding plates at respective ends. Each protruding plate has a hole at the center. The connector is placed in the connecting seat between the two protruding plates. The two holes of the protruding plates are aligned with the connector, and the fastener is inserted into the holes to secure the upright pipe to the sleeve.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a payload bin assembly that is stably coupled to zero-turn and non-zero-turn mowers alike. In various embodiments, the payload bin assembly is comprised of a durable payload support frame having a first end and a second end. A payload bin is pivotally coupled proximate the first end of the payload support frame. The payload support frame is supported at its first and second ends by a wheel-based support assembly and a mower-based support assembly, respectively.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension axle wrap is a composite tubular structure of cast or forged shells of part-tubular shape. The shells are assembled into a tubular form and welded together at juxtaposed edges. The shells can be cast or forged accurately to shape and profile to provide an improved quality axle wrap. Wall thickness variations can be designed into the shells. The juxtaposed edges are shaped to space the welding at the edges from the interior of the assembled axle wrap. The edges are beveled adjacent the external circumferential surfaces of the shells to provide a V-shaped groove at which the welding is made. There is a stepped engagement at the edges between the V-shaped groove and the internal surface of the axle wrap to prevent the welding from extending to the internal surface. Each shell is formed with an aperture at which a welded joint can be made between the axle wrap and an axle.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system for use with a vehicle includes a first hydraulic cylinder, a second hydraulic cylinder, and a fluid circuit. The first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder each include an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The fluid circuit is hydraulically coupled to the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder and includes a valve that is movable between a first position and a second position. When the valve is in the first position, the upper and lower chambers of each hydraulic cylinder are hydraulically coupled to the opposite chamber of the other cylinder. When the valve is in the second position, the upper chamber of each hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the lower chamber of the same cylinder. The valve is configured to move between the first position and the second position in response to manual input.

Abstract: A pneumatic support system for a wheelchair is provided herein. An implementation includes a support unit that supports a portion of the body of a user, a control unit that permits the user to control whether the support unit gets inflated or deflated, and a compressor that provides pressurized air to the support unit to inflate the support unit. The wheelchair has a valve, such when the user indicates that the support unit is to be inflated, the control unit sends a signal to the valve to move the valve to a first position, thereby permitted the pressurized air to reach the support unit. The support unit may be implemented in a variety of ways, and may be one of many support units. In one implementation, the support unit supports a thoracic portion of the user's body.

Abstract: A locking mechanism adapted for locking a bicycle fork has a locking sheath and an adjusting rod. The locking sheath is adapted to be positioned within the bicycle fork. The adjusting rod is adapted to slidably engage the locking sheath. The adjusting rod is adapted to rotate with respect to the locking sheath between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. A first interlocking element of the adjusting rod lockingly engages with a second interlocking element of the locking sheath in the locked configuration, and the first and second interlocking elements are disengaged from each other when the adjusting rod is rotated to the unlocked configuration.

Abstract: The SLIKLOC—Kingpin Lock is an anti-theft device used to prevent the theft of semi trailers that are unhooked from the semi tractor. The Kingpin Lock is virtually indestructible from ramming the semi tractor fifth wheel plate into the trailer Kingpin if attempted. The lock is designed to jump over the fifth wheel and lodge in front of the fifth wheel making movement of the tractor virtually impossible. The tractor's wheels will hit the semi dollies making any turns impossible. In addition, the ? inch, 45 degree slant (FIG. 2) will have a tendency to catch on the front of the fifth wheel making raising the trailer to free the semi tractor fifth wheel from the trailer very difficult.

Abstract: A ski boot binding securable to an alpine ski. The binding includes a heel unit having a base heel release threshold in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the ski to which the binding is attached. The heel unit includes a compensation mechanism that dynamically changes the base heel release threshold as a function of force conditions encountered by the ski during skiing.

Abstract: A golf cart including a frame having a first portion and a second portion. A front wheel mount is pivotally connected to the first portion of the frame and is pivotable about a first axis. A front wheel is rotatably connected to the front wheel mount, allowing for rotation of the front wheel about a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the first axis. The front wheel mount further allows for arcuate movement of the front wheel about the first axis. There is a pair of rear wheel members, each rear wheel member having a first end and a second end, the first end of each rear wheel member is pivotally connected to the second portion of the frame. There is a pair of rear wheels, each rear wheel is rotatably connected to the second end of one of each of the rear wheel members. A handle is connected to the second portion of the frame. A collapsing mechanism is moveable between a first position and a second position.

Abstract: A plurality of inflatable members (136, 140, 142, 156?) are mounted at a plurality of strategic locations relative to a vehicle occupant. The occupant is restrained by a harness including a lap belt segment (124), a chest belt segment (126) and a diagonal belt segment (128). Upon the vehicle being impacted, a central processor automatically inflates the inflatable members (136, 140, 142, 156?). The processor is connected to valve assemblies that regulate air flow both into and out of the inflatable members (136, 140, 142, 156?), and is further responsive to a pressure sensor assembly, so as to actively regulate pressure within the inflatable members.

Abstract: A retention tab unit is disclosed comprising a retention tab configured for attaching an inflatable curtain to a vehicle. The retention tab unit has an energy absorption mechanism that facilitates confinement of the retention tab in an initial configuration wherein the retention tab is not taut. Once the inflatable curtain is deployed, the energy absorption mechanism is configured to release the retention tab from its initial configuration and allow it to be forced into a deployed configuration wherein the retention tab tautly extends from the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an airbag and a process for manufacturing an airbag. The airbag includes a distribution element for the gas of a gas generator, to which at least one multi-layer chamber is fluidly connected through outflow openings of the distribution element. The distribution element includes an acceptance device for the gas generator and is cut out of an airbag material and is sewn to form a hollow body At least two connecting seams are provided to connect the layers of the chambers separately with one layer each of the distribution element.

Abstract: A passenger restraint system is provided in which, in one form, an airbag apparatus is activated according to a state of usage of a seat or a seatbelt apparatus, prediction of crash, and a state of accident together with the seatbelt apparatus. An airbag apparatus includes an airbag, a vent hole for discharging gas from the airbag, a vent hole cover for covering the vent hole, and a constraining device for releasably constraining the vent hole cover in a state of covering the vent hole. In order to make an EA capability of the airbag apparatus relatively low, constraint of the vent hole cover by the constraining device is continued, and the vent hole is brought into a closed state. On the other hand, in order to make the EA capability of the airbag apparatus relatively high, constraint of the vent hole cover by the constraint device is released to release the vent hole.

Abstract: An inner part of an airbag is partitioned into a first chamber and a second chamber by first and second inner panels. In a rear panel, a venthole for allowing the second chamber to communicate with an outer part of the airbag is provided. A lid member covers the venthole and is combined with the rear panel in a vicinity of the venthole by a tear seam. The lid member is connected to the second inner panel by a tether. At an initial stage of airbag expansion, the venthole is covered by the lid member. When the airbag is expanded more than a predetermined amount, the lid member is stretched by the second inner panel via the tether, and released from the venthole so as to open the venthole. The airbag facilitates prompt deployment without a loss in shock-absorbing characteristics.

Abstract: A thread for sewing occupant protection devices includes a spun thread and a thermoplastic elastomer coating. The thread can be used to form a sewn seam joining two fabric panels together to create an airbag. The seam can create needle holes in the two fabric panels. The seam can be heated after assembly of the airbag, such that the thermoplastic elastomer coating displaces off of the spun thread and fills in any needle holes.

Abstract: Air bags for vehicles are disclosed. The air bags are made from a composite material comprising at least one film layer attached to a plurality of reinforcing elements. For instance, in one embodiment, a plurality of reinforcing elements may be located in between a first film layer and a second film layer. In one embodiment, each film layer may comprise a multilayer film. The composite material is particularly well suited to forming side-curtain air bags.

Abstract: Portals with covers or seals, environmental control systems, bullet-, fire-, radiation-, explosion-proof, and chemical resistant materials are part of an airbag equipped automotive or electric vehicle enclosure that has mechanized raising and lowering device(so, shields between the riders, passengers, or loads and vehicle, lighting devices, mirrors, enclosure wipers or cleaners, and defogging, deicing, and water removing or applying devices. The portal covers or seals may be opened or closed in different ways and the environmental control systems may be adjusted to warm, cool, or may maintain desired enclosure temperature or air quality. The enclosure protects the rider(s), passenger(s), load(s), and vehicle from bullets, fire, radiation, and explosion and is also chemical resistant.

Abstract: Various embodiments of reduced-size vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UVs) are disclosed herein. In at least some embodiments, the vehicles include frames that are wider near the front and rear sections of the vehicles than within the mid-sections of the vehicles. This, in combination with the use of shock-absorbers that are substantially vertically oriented, allows for the opening-up of large interior cavities within the front and rear sections of the vehicles within which can be positioned large front and rear internal compartments that can provide storage/carrying capacity as well as added buoyancy for the vehicle, among other things. Also, in at least some embodiments, the vehicles can include special cooling and/or exhaust systems having components that are positioned substantially within the mid-sections of the vehicles, thus further increasing the amounts of space available for the cavities/compartments within the front and rear sections of the vehicles.

Abstract: A portable work case for scrapbooking and other crafts is provided herein. The work case (101) comprises (a) a central portion (103) having first and second opposing sides, (b) a first lateral portion (105) hingedly attached to the first side of the central portion, (c) a first pad (111) releasably attachable to the first lateral portion, (d) a second lateral portion (107) hingedly attached to the second side of the central portion, and (e) a second pad (113) releasably attachable to the second lateral portion.

Abstract: A self-adhesive security label for a data carrier, such as a security document or document of value, with a substrate (40), to the front of which security features (12-18,42) are applied and the back of which is provided with a cold adhesive foil (34). The security label contains an integrated circuit (30) disposed in a recess (36) of the adhesive foil (34) for storing security data and an antenna (32) disposed intermediate between substrate (40) and adhesive foil (34) and connected with the integrated circuit (30) for a contactless communication with the integrated circuit (30).

Abstract: A device for the quick coupling of a pipe fitting (50) to a flanged pipe is described. The device comprises a coupling plate (13) that is rigidly fastened to one end of the fitting so as to be axially approachable to the front of a terminal flange (12) of the flanged pipe, at least three locking wheels (15) rotatable around their own axes and projecting frontally from said plate (13) in circumferentially spaced positions and remotely controllable means (19) for controlling the rotation of said rollers (15) around their own axes. Each locking wheel (15) has round shape with a cut (24) along a circle chord in order to allow in one angular position with the chord facing the axis, and to prevent in all the other angular positions, the passage of the flange (12) of the flanged pipe among said wheels (15) for the reciprocal approach and the movement away of the plate (13) and the flange (12).

Abstract: A mounting arrangement for coupling an oil line to an oil cooler includes an oil cooler defining a first fluid passage. A fluid line defines a second fluid passage. A nut having a central passage is adapted to threadably engage the oil cooler and provide a fluid-tight seal between the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage. The nut includes a perimeter defining at least two engagement surfaces. The engagement surfaces are adapted to be engaged only in a first direction.

Abstract: A flexible hose formed from corrugated metal tube has a fitting permanently crimped to the end of the hose. The fitting includes an elongated stem having a first end adapted to be coupled to an appropriate fitting surface and a second end configured to be received within the hose. A sealing member disposed on the second end of the stem seals the fitting between the corrugated metal tube and the stem. A ferrule is placed over the hose and is crimped to compress the hose and sealing member between the ferrule and stem.

Abstract: The invention relates to a removable plug-in connection for high-pressure lines, in particular brake lines in the construction of motor vehicles. Said connection comprises a cylindrical receiving housing (1) with a central receiving chamber (2), in addition to a tubular plug-in part, which is equipped with a peripheral retaining rib. The insertion side of the receiving housing (1) has an enlarged receiving chamber (2) in which several radially guided locking elements (5) can be embedded, said elements being clamped in the direction of the interior by a retaining ring (14). The locking elements (5) consist of two half-shells (8) comprising retainer wedges (18) that point inwards, engaging behind the retaining rib (4) in a positive fit once the plug-in part (3) has been inserted. Each half-shell (8) has a projecting centring pin on one end face, said pin constituting an extension of the internal wall and engaging in a corresponding cavity on the opposing end face when the two half-shells (8) are assembled.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plumbing adapter for connecting rough plumbing to finished plumbing, including an inlet adapted to be attached to the rough plumbing, an outlet having an outer diameter adapted to be attached to the finished plumbing, and a connector having a first end attached to the inlet and a second end with an inner diameter adapted to fit around the outer diameter, wherein the connector is placed between the inlet and the outlet.

Abstract: A polymer fluid flow component configured to sealingly couple with a second fluid flow component, the fluid flow component having a protruding portion and a receiving portion configured to receive the protruding portion. The fluid flow component can include a stop surface disposed on the protruding portion and a cooperating stop surface on the receiving portion to cooperate with the stop surface. The fluid flow component can further include an annular ring integrally formed with the valve, such that the annular ring is subjected to a compressive force when the receiving portion receives the protruding section sealingly coupling the valve and second component. The stop surface can engage the cooperating stop surface to inhibit overtightening of the valve.

Abstract: A restrained sleeve coupling assembly for interconnecting pipe sections includes a generally cylindrical sleeve body with opposed gasket engaging surfaces adjacent opposite ends of the body for receiving fluid sealing gaskets forcibly engaged with the body and opposed end rings which are sleeved over the respective pipe sections to be joined. The end rings include flanges for engagement with elongated tension bolt assemblies to secure the sleeve body, the gaskets and the end rings in assembly with each other. The end rings also include circumferentially spaced bosses and polygonal shaped gripper members disposed in recesses in the bosses and forcibly engageable with the outer surfaces of the pipe sections over which the end rings are sleeved as determined by limited torque bolt assemblies engageable with the gripper members.

Abstract: A pipe clamp which includes an open band of metal, a pair of opposed flanges located at the open ends of the band, and a tightening mechanism for drawing the flanges together. Each flange extends radially from a body portion of the band to a loop formed by a portion of the band material folded back onto itself. The flanges each have an aperture at a location intermediate the loop and the body portion to accept a fastener for tightening of the band. The loops are disposed adjacent each other such that the flanges are separated by a gap that is greater at the apertures than at the loops. One or both of the flanges can have a slot that extends into the body portion of the band so that the slotted flange comprises two flange portions that can be tightened somewhat independently of each other.

Abstract: A suspended-load backpack designed to permit the load to move relative to the backpack frame during walking and running so that the large movements between the load and the frame of the backpack reduce the fluctuations of absolute vertical motion of the load. Because the hip (and thus the pack frame) go up a down a good deal during walking, a large relative movement between the frame and the load reduces the absolute excursion of the load. This movement may be, in turn, transferred to a motor through, for example, a rack and pinion gear, to convert the mechanical movement to electrical energy. The movement may also be converted to electrical energy by using an electroactive polymer (EAP) to connect the suspended load to the frame. Such designs allow the load to move in a controlled fashion to prevent the patient from losing his or her balance as the load moves up and down along the backpack frame.

Abstract: A buoyancy means and apparatus for providing near friction free operation of rotational devices, particularly electric generators and or turbines. This feature is critical in ocean energy projects where the amount of kinetic energy to be harvested is less than optimal. Flotation devices are affixed to rotational devices and submerged into a heavy fluid encased within a chamber that does not interfere with the normal operation of the said rotational device. Vibration is also reduced, allowing for more precise operation and a longer life cycle for moving parts.

Abstract: Disclosed is a boiler driving power supply system capable of supplying steam generated in a steam boiler to a load device, while generating power by utilizing the steam, and of supplying as driving power for the steam boiler the power thus generated constantly and in a stable manner. A boiler driving power supply system is characterized by including: a steam power generation unit provided in a steam line for supplying steam generated in a steam boiler to a load device; and a power storage unit for storing power from the steam power generation unit as driving power for the steam boiler.

Abstract: An underwater power generation system (10) that has a line member (30) that moves along a defined pathway. A number of foils (40) drive the line member using the flow of a water current. The defined pathway lies in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the flow of water current. A power take-off (114, 124) is connected to the line to produce power.

Abstract: A control system for a double-fed induction generator (DFIG) comprising a rotor (1) having rotor windings and a stator (2) having stator windings connectable to a grid for electric power distribution. The control system comprises a converter (17-0, 171), having a clamping unit comprising at least one passive voltage-dependent resistor element (291, 292, 293, 294) for providing a clamping voltage over the rotor windings when the clamping unit is triggered. The invention also relates to a double-fed induction generator (DIFIG) system and to a method for protecting the converter in a power generation system.

Abstract: An integrated sash lock and tilt latch assembly is mounted in a sash window having a top rail, a base, and two stiles connected together at their extremities. The integrated assembly contains a sash lock mechanism, a tilt latch mechanism, and a connector. The sash lock mechanism includes an actuator movable to adjust the assembly among a locked position, an unlocked position, and a tiltable position, a rotor coupled to the actuator and having a locking cam, and a keeper that receives at least a portion of the locking cam in the locked position. The tilt latch mechanism includes a latch bolt housing supported by the top rail such that a top surface of the latch bolt housing is substantially flush with a top surface of the top rail, a latch bolt slidably disposed within the latch bolt housing, and a spring biasing the latch bolt outwardly from the housing. The connector has a first end of operably coupled to the latch bolt and a second end operably coupled to the sash lock mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for locking a first door of a motor vehicle in place relative to a second door as the first and second doors abut against each other when closed. The apparatus includes a base plate mounted to the first door. A latch release lever is pivotally mounted to the base plate for movement between a neutral position and a release position. In the release position, the latch release lever actuates at least one door latch to release the first door. A plunger is slidably mounted to the first door and movable between an open position and a closed position engaging the latch release lever. Closing the second door while the first door is closed moves the plunger from the open position to the closed position to prevent the latch release lever from pivoting into the release position.

Abstract: Access control is a technology that allows remote locking and unlocking of doors. The information to cause these systems to function is usually derived from keypads, magnetic cards, proximity cards, motion detectors, manually activated switches and time schedules read by a computer. Many of the locking devices on the doors selected for access control are manually activated only. In order to implement an access control system, these devices must be made to activate electrically by some means. The common method to do this is to replace this very good and durable hardware with new hardware that has electric activation incorporated into it. This is a very expensive method to gain the functionality needed. Other methods are also used but the result often compromises security and the locking system integrity. This invention is a new approach to gaining the desired functionality, without compromising the safety, security and locking integrity of the door and lock system.

Abstract: A slidable bolt assembly (4) having a tension spring (16) mounted to a slide bolt rod (5). The actuating lever (8) is adapted to be pivotally mounted and is hand-operated. The actuating lever (8) is attached to a leaf tension spring (16) at one end and securely fastened to a bolt rod (5) on the other. The bolt member (5) is projected and retracted within the door by pivotal action of the actuating lever (8). Because the slidable bolt assembly (4) is attachable to the front of a door, the assembly (4) may be used on either an active (2) or inactive (3) door. In addition, the decorative mounting plate (7) allows a user to tastefully protect his or her home or business from excessive force caused by winds, intruders or other undesirable elements and promotes safety by restricting unauthorized individuals from access into or out of a room.

Abstract: A door or hatch capable of moving between an open and closed position and normally biased to revert to one of those positions is retained by a manually operable retaining means. A release means is provided to automatically release the door or hatch to thereby allow it to return to its biased position, automatically. The release means is operable in normal ambient temperature for automatically releasing the door or hatch and operable under fire conditions for automatically releasing the door or hatch.

Abstract: A latch assembly is for a lock of a door and includes a latch movably disposed within the door. A sensor is configured to sense when the latch is generally located at a particular position with respect to the door. Preferably, the latch is displaceable between an extended position, at which the latch is engageable with a strike, and a retracted position at which the door is moveable with respect to a frame, and the sensor preferably senses when the latch is located at at least one of these two positions. The sensor preferably includes a reed switch and a magnet, and preferably generates a signal when the latch is located at, or displaces from, the particular position. Further, the sensor is coupleable with either a processing device, such as a computer or controller, or an alarm device, such as a horn, a light or a speaker.

Abstract: An electric rim strike including a housing having a cavity defined therein; a pivotally rotatable keeper having a front blocking face; a pivotally rotatable locking bar having a rear blocking face; and an actuating mechanism that selectively pivots the locking bar. The keeper, locking bar, and actuating mechanism are disposed within the cavity of the housing. The actuating mechanism being operationally connected to the locking bar and driving the locking bar and the keeper from a first state to a second state. The rear blocking face of the locking bar opposes the front blocking face of the keeper to prevent the locking bar and keeper from freely rotating relative to each other.

Abstract: The present invention provides a modular bumper shell comprising an attachment member adapted for attachment to an energy-absorbing vehicle bumper substructure, and at least one outer member affixed to and at least partially covering the attachment member. The outer member is at least partially visible to an observer following vehicle assembly. The present invention also provides a method of assembling a modular bumper shell by providing an attachment member adapted for attachment to an energy-absorbing vehicle bumper substructure, providing at least one outer member, and attaching the outer member to the attachment member. The present invention further provides a method of changing the appearance of a vehicle bumper by providing a modular bumper shell including at least one outer member attached to an attachment member, and then replacing the outer member with a modified outer member.

Abstract: A unique, new and useful structure and method is provided for effectively and efficiently engaging and manipulating a crossover tube of a gas turbine. The tool is manipulated to a gripping position in which it securely engages the spring loaded locks of a crossover tube while applying a reaction force to a portion of the burner basket that is associated with the crossover tube, so that manipulating the handle manipulates the crossover tube that is engaged by the tool. A preferred version of the tool has specially designed structure for coupling a handle with the gripper and follower structure such that the tool can effectively and efficiently reach and manipulate crossover tubes that are in particularly difficult to reach areas of a gas turbine.