Patents Issued in August 17, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170232545
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and/or methods for securing and unsecuring a wire feeder in an automatic welding system without using tools are disclosed. The welding system can include, for example, a robotic arm with a welding torch, an adaptor, and a wire feeder. The adaptor can include, for example, a quick-disconnect member located on the robotic arm. The wire feeder that can be removed from the adaptor after the quick-disconnect member has been actuated. The wire feeder can be installed and secured with tools by placing the wire feeder in the actuator and actuating the quick-disconnect member of the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas S. Lahti, Edward J. Crum, Michael P. Vandenberg
  • Publication number: 20170232546
    Abstract: On an inner peripheral surface defining a through hole of a first rotator, provided is a positioning member for bringing the center axis of a contact tip, housed in the through hole, into alignment with a rotational axis, or making the former axis proximate to the latter axis, by coming into contact with an outer peripheral surface of the contact tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: TIPMAN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Anura Silva MARAKKALA MANAGE
  • Publication number: 20170232547
    Abstract: Welding techniques, including, for example, resistance spot welding, can be used to join or weld two or more metal sheets together. A clamping force and an electric current can be applied to two or more sheets to create localized melting that combines the material of the two sheets. Applying a clamping force and a cooling current can include gradually decreasing the amount of the electric current applied to the weld while applying the forging force. By adjusting the amount of the electric current applied to the weld can allow the weld to cool gradually, which may reduce thermal stresses and allow the forging force to close cracks, pores, or otherwise be used to remove or prevent defects formed in the weld.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Novelis Inc.
    Inventors: XIAO CHAI, JULIO MALPICA, RAHUL KULKARNI
  • Publication number: 20170232548
    Abstract: A method of adhesive weld bonding a light metal workpiece and a steel workpiece is disclosed that includes applying a plurality of discrete adhesive ribbons to a faying surface of the light metal workpiece, the faying surface of the steel workpiece, or both faying surfaces, and then assembling the workpieces together to establish one or more adhesive zones between the faying surfaces of the light metal and steel workpieces and a plurality of adhesive free zones amongst the adhesive zone(s). The method further includes forming a resistance spot weld that bonds the the light metal workpiece and the steel workpiece together at a spot weld location within one of the adhesive free zones. The formed spot weld includes a weld joint contained within the light metal workpiece that bonds to the faying interface of the steel workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Blair E. Carlson, David R. Sigler
  • Publication number: 20170232549
    Abstract: Building a complete ship hull, including many internals (bulkhead, holds), as a single, 3D printed device. A Stewart crane is used for gross positioning, while a multitude of beam deposition arms can be used for finer positioning. In a shipbuilding method, this means that the hull, floors, main piping, tanks, quarters, stairs, doorways, etc. can all be printed, in place, as part of a multi-step process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Alberto Daniel Lacaze, Karl Murphy
  • Publication number: 20170232550
    Abstract: A method for forming an impact weld used in an additive manufacturing process. The method includes providing a wire having a powder filler metal core located within a sheath. The wire is then inserted within a conduit having an opening. Further, the method includes providing at least one energy pulse that interacts with the sheath to pinch off at least one segment of the wire, wherein the energy pulse causes propulsion of the segment toward a substrate with sufficient velocity to form an impact weld for welding the metal core to the substrate. In particular, the energy pulse is an electromagnetic pulse, a laser energy pulse or a high electric current pulse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Gerald J. Bruck
  • Publication number: 20170232551
    Abstract: A programmable exothermic reaction controller includes input/output control circuitry for inputting and outputting information to/from the controller, processing circuitry including user programmable parameters, wherein the parameters are programmable using the input/output control circuitry and an output connector connectable to an ignitor cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Mamoon Tawfig Abedraboh, Todd Carlton Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20170232552
    Abstract: A reclamation system for a metal powder, such as a reactive metal powder, is disclosed. The system may include a container; and a pressure source in fluid communication with the container for creating a selected pressure within the container, the container including: an inlet to a lower portion of the tank that is configured to hold a liquid, and an outlet. A controller controls the pressure source to control the pressure applied within the container between: a vacuum state creating a flow of air entrained metal powder to enter the inlet for forming a reclaimed metal powder by removing the metal powder from the air by immersion in the liquid, and an evaporation state that causes evaporation of the liquid to a gas that exits through the outlet. A condenser condenses the gas to a condensed liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Donnell Eugene Crear, Archie Lee Swanner, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170232553
    Abstract: A welding method for joining workpieces (10) made of hot-crack-sensitive materials at a lap joint by means of a remote laser welding device. A stitched weld seam (11) with the equivalent strength of a continuous weld seam (11) is produced from a plurality of weld seam sections (13). The power input of the laser beam (21) changes periodically between a minimum and a maximum value while the laser spot (22) describes an anharmonically oscillating pendulum motion on the workpiece surface plane (18). The welding and the formation of the weld seam sections (13) take place in the phases of the power input with the maximum value. The anharmonically oscillating pendulum motion takes place with an oscillation frequency of 2 to 25 Hz and an amplitude in the range of 1 to 20 mm. The method is intended for welding of hot-crack-sensitive aluminum materials, e.g. for production of automobile bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Pravin Sievi, Peter Fixemer
  • Publication number: 20170232554
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for welding a first part and second part together. A spacer bead is first formed on the first part by directing a laser beam on one side of the first part. The second part is then assembled to the one side of the first part. The second part is then welded to the first part by directing a second laser beam in a partially circular pattern adjacent the spacer bead. An end portion of the weld terminates radially inside the partially circular pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Matthew GILLOON, Arnon WEXLER
  • Publication number: 20170232555
    Abstract: Method for joining a first and a second steel blanks, at least one of the blanks comprising aluminium. The method comprises providing a support being made of a magnetic material for each blank, the supports being arranged distanced apart by a central space; providing a coil winding around one support, arranging the first blank on one support and the second blank on the other support, such that a butt end of the first blank that is facing the second blank is brought into contact with a butt end of the second blank that is facing the first blank defining a contacting area that closes a path for magnetic flux. The method further comprises applying a laser beam onto the contacting area, while applying an alternating current to the coil winding, wherein an alternating magnetic field is created across the contacting area in a direction substantially in-line with the blanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Antoine RIQUELME
  • Publication number: 20170232556
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for joining pipes where a keyhole is formed in each of the pipe ends and then a filler metal is placed in the keyholes to join the pipes to each other. The filler metal can be deposited using a laser hot wire process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Badri Narayanan, John Procario
  • Publication number: 20170232557
    Abstract: An additive manufacturing system including a two-dimensional energy patterning system for imaging a powder bed is disclosed. The two-dimensional energy patterning system may be used to control the rate of cooling experienced by each successive additive layer. Accordingly, the system may be used to heat treat the various additive layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: James A. DeMuth, Erik Toomre, Martin Eberhard
  • Publication number: 20170232558
    Abstract: A laser machining method includes a first piercing process of forming a non-through piercing hole extending from a top surface to a central portion of a workpiece; a workpiece cooling process; a second piercing process of making the piercing hole pierce to a bottom surface of the workpiece; and a workpiece cutting process. The second piercing process includes performing piercing by irradiating the workpiece with a laser beam while changing the output of the laser beam from a second output value to a third output value, which is smaller than the first output value and larger than the second output value, the focal position from a first in-focus position to a second in-focus position having a larger in-focus amount than the first in-focus position, and the depth of focus from a second depth deeper than a first depth to a third depth deeper than the second depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Junji KANO
  • Publication number: 20170232559
    Abstract: A method is for processing a cooling hole on a workpiece with laser. The cooling hole includes a shaped hole section. The method includes emitting a first laser pulse to a rough processing part in the position of the shaped hole section to be processed on the workpiece according to the geometrical parameters of the shaped hole section so as to remove the material of the workpiece; and emitting a second laser pulse to the processing allowance part beyond the rough processing part of the shaped hole section to be processed according to the geometrical parameters of the shaped hole section so as to remove the material allowance of the workpiece on the processing allowance part. The energy of the first laser pulse is relatively larger than that of the second laser pulse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas BECK, Hong Tao LI
  • Publication number: 20170232560
    Abstract: A formed steel part is provided. The formed steel part includes a first steel plate having a first base, a first intermetallic alloy layer on the first base and a first metal alloy layer on the first intermetallic alloy layer, the first steel part having a first area without the first metal alloy layer and having at least part of the first intermetallic alloy layer; and a second steel plate having a second base, a second intermetallic alloy layer on the second base and a second metal alloy layer on the second intermetallic alloy layer, the second steel part having a second area without the second metal alloy layer and having at least part of the second intermetallic alloy layer in the second area. The first and second steel plates are joined together. The formed steel part may also include a butt-weld joining the first and second steel plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Jean-Francois CANOURGUES, Aurelien PIC, Pascal VERRIER, Rene VIERSTRAETE, Wolfram EHLING, Bernd THOMMES
  • Publication number: 20170232561
    Abstract: Disclosed is an aluminum alloy brazing sheet including a core material, a brazing filler material provided on one surface of the core material and formed of an Al—Si based alloy, and a sacrificial anode material provided on the other surface of the core material, the brazing sheet having a thickness of less than 200 ?m, wherein the core material includes more than 1.5% by mass and 2.5% or less by mass of Cu, and 0.5 to 2.0% by mass of Mn, with the balance being Al and inevitable impurities, wherein the sacrificial anode material includes 2.0 to 10.0% by mass of Zn, an Mg content in the sacrificial anode material being restricted to 0.10% or less by mass, with the balance being Al and inevitable impurities, and wherein each of the brazing filler material and the sacrificial anode material has a thickness thereof in a range of 15 to 50 ?m, and the total of cladding rates of the brazing filler material and sacrificial anode material is 50% or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicants: KABUSHIKI KAISHA KOBE SEIKO SHO (KOBE STEEL, LTD.), DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shimpei KIMURA, Akihiro TSURUNO, Takahiro IZUMI, Yuji SHIBUYA, Hayaki TERAMOTO, Michiyasu YAMAMOTO, Manabu HASEGAWA, Shoei TESHIMA
  • Publication number: 20170232562
    Abstract: A bonding structure bonds a Cu wiring line and a device electrode with each other. The bonding structure is arranged between the Cu wiring line and the device electrode, and comprises a first intermetallic compound (IMC) layer (a layer of an intermetallic compound of Cu and Sn) formed on the interface with the Cu wiring line, a second intermetallic compound (IMC) layer (a layer of an intermetallic compound of Cu and Sn) formed on the interface with the device electrode, and an intermediate layer that is present between the intermetallic compound layers. In the intermediate layer, a network-like IMC (a network-like intermetallic compound of Cu and Sn) is present in Sn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKI
    Inventor: Kazuhiro MAENO
  • Publication number: 20170232563
    Abstract: A nozzle with changeable press fit and a method for calibrating a nozzle is described. The nozzle may be used in a nozzle/flapper type servovalve. The method comprises the steps of providing a nozzle within a cylindrical body defining a cylindrical bore, the nozzle having a tubular shape with an outer cylindrical surface and an inner radial surface., the method further comprises the steps of positioning a first, tubular locking member within the nozzle, and axially moving the first, tubular locking member within the nozzle. The first tubular locking member is configured to cause the nozzle to become positionally fixed at a selected position within the bore in response to the first, tubular locking member being axially moved relative to the nozzle. A nozzle positioning system is also described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Piotr SAWICKI
  • Publication number: 20170232564
    Abstract: A gear manufacturing machine for which a machining tool detachably attached to a tool spindle is exchanged by means of an automatic tool changer, wherein the automatic tool changer is provided with: tool holding means for detachably holding a machining tool to be exchanged; moving means for moving the tool holding means in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the tool spindle; and rotating means for rotating the tool holding means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES MACHINE TOOL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki ISHIZU, Noritaka FUJIMURA, Yoko HIRONO, Tatsuro TAKAGI
  • Publication number: 20170232565
    Abstract: To provide an improved technique for improving operability in an operation using a power tool with a dust collector attached thereto, a hammer drill to which a dust collector is attached has a body and a handle. The dust collector has a dust collecting part and a male plug. The dust collector is attached to the hammer drill by connecting the male plug to the handle of the hammer drill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yoshitaka MACHIDA
  • Publication number: 20170232566
    Abstract: A tool holder is disclosed for holding a tool shaft of a tool, the tool holder having a receiving bore for receiving the tool shaft in a predetermined axial position, having a seal at an inner end of the receiving bore, and further comprising a coolant supply from a machine-side into a bore of the tool shaft, wherein the seal has an at least partially elastically deformable sealing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Gerhard BABEL, Ulrich ZIERER
  • Publication number: 20170232567
    Abstract: A manufacturing system including a base and multiple work machine modules that are arranged in an arrangement direction on base to be attachable to and detachable from base, in which one wheel of a pair provided on work machine module is engaged with one rail of a pair provided on base in a state in which positional deviation in the arrangement direction is prohibited, and the other wheel of the pair is engaged with the other rail of the pair in a state in which positional deviation is permitted in the arrangement direction, thereby the position of work machine modules on the base in the arrangement direction is specified, and work machine modules are fixed at a setting position on the base to be restricted so as to be drawn toward the base by a module fixing mechanism that is provided on the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: FUJI MACHINE MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigefumi SUZUYAMA, Shuichi HIRATA, Kenji MIZUTA
  • Publication number: 20170232568
    Abstract: A sharpener for sharpening a cutting tool having a blade portion with a cutting edge, such as but not limited to a kitchen knife. In some embodiments, the sharpener has first and second rollers, with the first roller rotatable about a first roller axis and the second roller rotatable about a second roller axis parallel to the first roller axis. An endless abrasive belt is arranged along a belt path that passes over the first and second rollers to define a planar segment that lies along a neutral plane from the first roller to the second roller. A guide assembly adjacent the planar segment of the belt is configured to contactingly engage the cutting edge of the cutting tool and apply a non-uniform surface pressure to a side of the cutting tool adjacent the cutting edge across a width of the belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel T. Dovel
  • Publication number: 20170232569
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for sharpening a cutting tool. In some embodiments, a sharpener has a guide assembly adjacent a moveable abrasive medium. The medium is advanced at a first speed relative to the guide assembly during a coarse sharpening operation in which a user presents the cutting tool against the medium to shape a side of the cutting tool and generate distended material from the cutting edge (e.g., burrs). The medium is subsequently slowed to a lower, second speed for a fine sharpening operation in which the user presents the cutting tool against the medium to remove the distended material and provide a sharpened cutting edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel T. Dovel
  • Publication number: 20170232570
    Abstract: A finishing device for finish machining of a workpiece, in particular of a crankshaft or a camshaft, comprising a workpiece holder and a rotary drive for rotating the workpiece about the workpiece axis thereof, comprising at least one first finishing tool for machining a main bearing concentric to the workpiece axis and at least one second finishing tool for machining an additional bearing, wherein the finishing tools can be moved along a transport axis which extends via a working area defined by the workpiece holder so that the finishing tools can be moved into an additional area arranged outside the working area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Oliver Hildebrandt
  • Publication number: 20170232571
    Abstract: Embodiments of a grinding wheel and methods for edge finishing glass substrates are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the grinding wheel includes a metal matrix structure, a plurality of primary abrasive particles and a plurality of secondary abrasive particles bonded to the matrix structure, wherein one of the primary abrasive diamond particles and secondary abrasive particles comprises resin bond diamond particles. In some embodiments, the other of the primary abrasive diamond particles and secondary abrasive particles comprises metal bond diamond particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Jonas Bankaitis, Gary Michael Huzinec
  • Publication number: 20170232572
    Abstract: Implementations of the present disclosure generally relate to planarization of surfaces on substrates and on layers formed on substrates, including an apparatus for in-situ temperature control during polishing, and methods of using the same. More specifically, implementations of the present disclosure relate to in-situ temperature control with a condensed gas during a chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) process. In one implementation, the method comprises polishing one or more substrates against a polishing surface in the presence of a polishing fluid during a polishing process to remove a portion of a material formed on the one or more substrates. A temperature of the polishing surface is monitored during the polishing process. Carbon dioxide snow is delivered to the polishing surface in response to the monitored temperature to maintain the temperature of the polishing surface at a target value during the polishing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Brian J. BROWN
  • Publication number: 20170232573
    Abstract: A polishing member according to an embodiment includes a first polisher, a second polisher, and a third polisher. The first polisher is capable of rubbing a target surface. The second polisher is surrounded by the first polisher. A hole is located along an edge of the second polisher between the first polisher and the second polisher. The third polisher connects the first polisher and the second polisher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventor: Takashi WATANABE
  • Publication number: 20170232574
    Abstract: Disclosed is a chemical-mechanical wafer polishing device having an elastic membrane including a circular action plate portion, a membrane circumferential wall portion extending from a circumferential edge of the action plate portion along a direction perpendicular to a plate surface, and a chamber formed between the action plate portion and the membrane circumferential wall portion. The membrane includes a cooling channel portion having an action plate bottom surface section, and a supply penetration section penetrating the action plate portion such that one end is connected to the action plate bottom surface section and the other end is exposed to the upper side of the action plate portion. The chemical-mechanical wafer polishing device includes a cooling fluid supply portion having a cooling fluid supply tube connected to a free end of the supply penetration section, and providing a cooling fluid to the cooling channel portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Oh Su KIM, Byung Ho KWON
  • Publication number: 20170232575
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining location of a lens machining tool (24) having an offset location according to a first direction (Y) smaller than a first predetermined threshold, including the steps of manufacturing a calibration piece (10) according to a predetermined theoretical geometry by using the lens machining tool for providing a at least partially annular groove in a main surface of the calibration piece, the at least partially annular groove being configured to form at least one sharp edge defining a slope discontinuity on the main surface; measuring a distance between the at least one sharp edge and a turning center of the calibration piece for providing data of geometrical characteristics of the calibration piece; and deducing from the measured data a location of the lens machining tool according to a second direction (X) distinct from the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Xavier BULTEZ, Jerome MOINE, Guillaume BOLTEAU, Jean-Pierre CHAUVEAU
  • Publication number: 20170232576
    Abstract: A CMP pad conditioner comprises a plurality of abrasive segments. Each abrasive segment includes a segment blank and an abrasive layer attached to the segment blank, the abrasive layer including a superhard abrasive material. A pad conditioner substrate is also provided. Each of the plurality of abrasive segments is permanently affixed to the pad conditioner substrate in an orientation that enables removal of material from a CMP pad by the abrasive layer as the pad conditioner and the CMP pad are moved relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Chien-Min Sung
  • Publication number: 20170232577
    Abstract: CMP pad dressers having leveled tips and associated methods are provided. In one aspect, for example, a composite conditioner can include a base plate and a plurality of polishing units secured to a surface of the base plate by an adhesive layer, where each polishing unit includes a plurality of polishing tips secured in a binding layer. Additionally, a height difference between a first highest polishing tip and a second highest polishing tip is less than or equal to about 10 ?m, a height difference between the first highest polishing tip and a tenth highest polishing tip is less than or equal to about 20 ?m, and a height difference between the first highest polishing tip and a 100th highest polishing tip is less than or equal to about 40 ?m. Furthermore, the first highest polishing tip protrudes from the binding layer to a height of greater than or equal to about 50 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Chien-Min Sung
  • Publication number: 20170232578
    Abstract: Rotational motion generates velocity of a mass wherein the mass' release from the rotating system, becoming a projectile, and subsequent impact can result in cutting, abrasion, mixing of chemicals, coaling, and other surface and bulk volume effects including the transfer of momentum. Structures and devices are used to insert a mass into a rotating device. While inside the rotating device the mass gains velocity. Transitioning from the rotational system to a stationary surface is accomplished with a minimum of velocity loss by selecting trajectories, air flows, and surface finishes to reduce energy losses in the mass' transition onto the stationary surface and info a fixed stationary guide tube, and ultimately to an impact point. Single and multiple conduits, stationary and rotating, can be used to accomplish complex chemistry and physics affects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Paul Westmeyer, Robert Edwin Woods, III, Robert Parker Woods
  • Publication number: 20170232579
    Abstract: A novel diamond cutting tool and its use in cutting and grinding applications. The cutting surface of the tool is composed of an aluminum/diamond metal matrix composite comprising diamond particles dispersed in a matrix of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, and wherein the diamond particles have thin layers of beta-SiC chemically bonded to the surfaces thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Omar Kevin Loutfy, Raouf Loutfy, Birol Sonuparlak
  • Publication number: 20170232580
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to a pivotable clamp or vise. For example, the vise may clamp or secure a workpiece at a suitable position and/or orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Howard
  • Publication number: 20170232581
    Abstract: A fixture assembly, for use in maintaining a piece of heavy equipment. The fixture assembly includes a first connecting component configured to be connected releasably to a first part of the heavy equipment, and a second connecting component configured to be connected releasably to a second part of the heavy equipment connected to the first part when the heavy equipment is assembled. The fixture assembly also includes a hinge arrangement connecting the first connecting component to the second connecting component. The technology further includes methods for maintaining the heavy equipment using the fixture assembly, such as by separating heavy equipment parts in order to replace a gearbox of the equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Gerritt Arie Gouw, James G. Hillaker
  • Publication number: 20170232582
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for installation in a vehicle, includes a windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device and a support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor device. A mount assembly is provided for supporting the windscreen anchor assembly. The mount assembly includes a mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the support arm can slide bodily in its longitudinal direction with respect to the mount structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Belron Hungary Kft - Zug Branch
    Inventors: William Finck, Christopher Davies
  • Publication number: 20170232583
    Abstract: A socket assembly includes an outer socket, an inner socket mounted in the outer socket, and an intermediate socket mounted in the outer socket. The outer socket has a plurality of drive blocks and a plurality of retaining grooves. The inner socket includes a first base, a plurality of first driving sections, and a plurality of first openings. The intermediate socket includes a second base, a plurality of second driving sections, and a plurality of second openings. Thus, the inner diameter defined between the first driving sections is smaller than that defined between the second driving sections by 2 mm, and the inner diameter defined between the second driving sections is smaller than that defined between the drive blocks by 2 mm, so that the inner socket, the intermediate socket and the outer socket co-operate to operate three successive sizes of nuts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Timmy Chen
  • Publication number: 20170232584
    Abstract: A V-shaped bionic wrench, which a handle, a fixed jaw, a movable jaw, a worm and a rack. The movable jaw is disposed on the rack. The worm is engaged with the rack and disposed on the handle. The gripping faces of the movable jaw and the fixed jaw form a V-shaped opening. In use, the gripping faces of the movable jaw and the fixed jaw of the wrench form a V-shaped opening, avoiding the trouble, when screwing an object with a conventional adjustable wrench, of repeatedly adjusting the worm to find the distance at which the wrench is to be opened, and achieving the precise gripping in one step upon insertion into the V-shaped opening, thereby allowing quick and convenient use. In addition, screwing can also be implemented when an object is held at the top of the V-shaped opening, thus saving operating space compared with a conventional wrench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Fengyi Liu
  • Publication number: 20170232585
    Abstract: A device for removing a boat drain plug, having a body with a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end has a first square-shaped opening configured to engage a boat drain plug. The first square-shaped opening features a first notch extending outward from one side and a second notch extending outwardly from a diametrically opposed side. The proximal end has a first handle extending laterally outward from the body, a second handle diametrically opposed to the first handle and extending laterally outward from the body, and a second square-shaped opening disposed between the first handle and the second handle. The second square-shaped opening is configured to engage a socket wrench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Sturner Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Martin Sturner
  • Publication number: 20170232586
    Abstract: An adapter for changing LED light bulbs can have a threaded fitting for attachment to the pole of an existing light-bulb changer. The adapter has a body, preferably formed of a rigid material such as a rigid plastic. The body has multiple teeth to engage the spaces between the cooling fins of the LED light bulb. The light bulb can then be unscrewed from its socket and lowered using the pole and the adapter. A new light bulb can be placed on the teeth, raised, and screwed into the socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph GURWICZ, Michael Rosen
  • Publication number: 20170232587
    Abstract: The “Sink Faucet Multiple Tool”, is designed so that on one side it can install or remove two types of faucet nuts that fix the faucet to the underside of the sink or lavatory, and on the other side it can install or remove the faucet nut that connects the flexible water hoses to the faucet. It is designed to be easy to use and inexpensive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Gaspare Joseph Tommaso
  • Publication number: 20170232588
    Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprising a holding structure configured to engage a light bulb, the holding structure configured along an axis, the motorized holding structure configured to actuate in a first direction and a second direction. The light bulb changing tool further includes a force generator configured to selectively force the light bulb against the holding structure and a control unit configured to remotely communicate with the holding structure and the force generator, wherein the electronic control unit sends control signals to drive the holding structure to selectively move in the first direction and the second direction and/or to activate the force generator, The tool further comprises an arm member for positioning the holding structure in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, wherein the arm member is coupled to the holding structure. The holding structure further comprises a rotator mechanism configured to rotate the holding structure in the first direction about the axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
  • Publication number: 20170232589
    Abstract: A method for setting an expansion anchor by a power tool, and a power tool that performs the method, is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes applying rotational impacts to the expansion anchor in accordance with a first rotational speed until a rotational angle per time interval of an output shaft of the power tool falls below a predetermined threshold value and applying rotational impacts to the expansion anchor in accordance with a reduced second rotational speed for a predetermined duration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter GAUL
  • Publication number: 20170232590
    Abstract: A universal multiple bit adapter is disclosed. The adapter is designed for compatibility with most of the available screws in the construction market including Philip screw, Roberson screw, Torx screw and nut drivers. The multiple bit adapter comprises a cylindrical enclosed housing chamber with plurality of openings to enable selective application of the elongated driver bits. The screw driver bits are made from hardened steel and housing chamber is made from any metal or plastic material. The multi-functional bit adapter unit further comprises a clip protection member to hold the elongated driver bits from rotating further during short repair maintenance. This convenient single unit is small, compact and easy to carry in a pocket and can be easily attached to a power tool like a drill or impact wrench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Patrick Clifford
  • Publication number: 20170232591
    Abstract: A socket with magnetic tip assembly for receiving and retaining a head of a fastener is provided. The magnetic socket includes a cylindrical configuration, with a first open end including said magnet to the front face of said tip, which is adapted to engage the hexagonal head of a nut or bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventor: Larry L. Davis, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170232592
    Abstract: Disposable torque-limiting mechanisms with upper shank component with a torque-limiting interface, a lower shank component with a torque-limiting interface, and a washer assembly biasing element. Torque-limiting interfaces having a plurality of undulations arranged around an axial bore or drive socket and separated by a plurality of transition regions, with each undulation having an upslope, a peak, and a downslope. The torque-limiting interfaces are configured to engage and disengage to provide torque transmission with predetermined torque limits at various rotational speeds and for amounts of actuations while remaining within a specified operational range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: ECA Medical Instruments
    Inventors: John Nino, David Ivinson, David Tory
  • Publication number: 20170232593
    Abstract: A torque wrench is provided that extends along a longitudinal axis and includes a head, a body, and a torque adjustment assembly. The head is shaped and adapted to engage at least one of a fastener or a torque-application adaptor aligned with a torque axis. The body includes a handle and a click-pivot assembly. The click-pivot assembly includes first and second members coupled by a link, and is configured to indicate application of a predetermined amount of torque via the handle. The head is pivotally coupled to the body via the torque adjustment assembly. A change in an angle between the torque axis and the longitudinal axis dynamically adjusts an amount of torque provided by the head by a predetermined amount relative to the predetermined amount of torque applied via the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Donald Wayne Coffland
  • Publication number: 20170232594
    Abstract: Use of multiple-slope and/or multiple-offset mechanism or equivalent to address the issues with current mechanical clickers that have single-slope spring mechanism. The varying-slope can be a continuously varying-slope non-linear spring, or a combination of discretely varying multiple-slope springs. This invention is useful for clicker type torque wrenches, clicker type torque screw drivers, beam type torque wrenches, beam type torque screw drivers and shock absorbers. The present invention is equally applicable to clickers that click in both the CW (clockwise) and CCW (counterclockwise) directions or clickers that click only in one direction. The invention is generally characterized by placing a non-linear spring or combination of springs in the tool body to achieve multiple slope operation rather than using one single slope spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Publication date: August 17, 2017
    Inventors: Anjanappa Muniswamappa, Si Li, Muneer Baig, Ashwini Anjanappa