Extensible Handle Patents (Class 16/429)
  • Patent number: 8356548
    Abstract: Handles, extendable handles, and linkage mechanisms are examples of apparatuses that include a body; a pivotably attached head; cylinder, actuator, or hydraulic actuator; a fluid passage or hose; and a valve, blocking means, or hydraulic control device. The valve, blocking means, or hydraulic control device may be normally open and may close only when held closed, and may be connected on one side to the fluid passage or hose and on another side to atmosphere. An operator may use a tool, such as a drywall flat box attached to the head, by holding the handle and controlling pivoting of the head by operating the valve. Methods include providing for an operator to control a tool on a handle, and include providing the handle and instructing the operator to actuate the blocking means to hold the tool in a constant orientation relative to the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Cinta Tools, LLC
    Inventor: David T. Roman
  • Publication number: 20120272557
    Abstract: A grip is disclosed. The grip comprises a base portion; a grip portion pivotably connected to the base portion for arrangement in one of: a deployed orientation, a stowed orientation and an intermediate orientation, wherein the grip portion includes a first, inner body, and a second, outer body, wherein the second, outer body is movably- and telescopingly-connected to the first, inner body; and a locking assembly arranged within and at least partially contained by the grip portion, wherein a portion of the locking assembly is selectively-extendable in one of an orientation within the grip portion and beyond an outer surface of the grip portion for selective coupling of the portion of the locking assembly with the base portion. A method for operating a grip is also disclosed. An assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Leapers, Inc.
    Inventor: Yuedong Yan
  • Patent number: 8296909
    Abstract: Mobile power generator apparatus includes: upper and lower pivoting links vertically pivotably connected at their one end portions to a frame; and a handle mounted to the frame for pulling the generator apparatus and connected at its proximal end portion to other end portions of the links. The handle is expandable, in a direction where a grip moves away from the links, in interlocked relation to upward pivotal movement of the links responsive to a pulling force, and is collapsable, in a direction where the grip moves toward the links, in interlocked relation to downward pivotal movement of the links responsive to a pushing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuhito Takemura
  • Publication number: 20120268873
    Abstract: Disposed on a principal plane of a case is a pair of support members each having one end portion rotatably supported. The other end portions of the support members are supported rotatably by projections included in the case. A pair of loose-insertion openings through which the support parts are loosely inserted is arranged on the one end portions of the pair of support members. A gripping member having a configuration embedding the support members via the pair of loose-insertion openings is included. In a gripping device and an information processing device including the gripping device, concaved portions are formed on the support members at positions intersecting the pair of loose-insertion openings and facing the other support member. This configuration allows smooth rotational moving of the gripping member with regard to the information processing device, and suppressing pinching of foreign debris between the pair of support members and the gripping member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hitoshi Nakatani, Takeshi Mori, Yuichiro Tachibana, Shun Shimazaki, Akira Iwamoto, Hideo Nishimatsu
  • Patent number: 8272105
    Abstract: An extendable linkage mechanism for operating a slave actuator over a range of distances from a master actuator, an extendable handle for operating a tool over a range of handle length; and a tool for use by an operator for dispensing drywall joint compound into joints between sheets of drywall. Slanted engagement surfaces on master and slave wedges engage each other as well as master and slave rods to transmit motion and force at varying distances, for instance, from a lever at one end to a clamp at the other end. The elongated slave rod passes through orifices in the wedges. Structural or tubular members may slidably engage to provide extendibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Cinta Tools, LLC
    Inventor: David T. Roman
  • Publication number: 20120228854
    Abstract: A telescoping handle assembly includes a first handle, a second handle, a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a driving member. The second handle is movably disposed in the first handle. The first coupling member is movably disposed in the first handle and the second handle. The second coupling member is movably disposed in the second handle. The driving member is coupled to the second coupling member and used for driving the second coupling member to move from a first position to a second position. When the second coupling member is located at the first position, the second coupling member is capable of moving with respect to the first coupling member. When the second coupling member is located at the second position, the first coupling member and the second coupling member are capable of moving together while the driving member is driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Jonathan Mountz
  • Patent number: 8240008
    Abstract: A hands-free system for connecting and disconnecting a tool from an adjustable length extension pole. The system includes first and second slidably interconnected elongated members, a tool-holding assembly releasably coupled to the second elongated member, and a locking assembly disposed between the first and second elongated members. The relative sliding of the first and second elongated members can be selectively restrained by rotating the first and second elongated members relative to one another. The tool-holding assembly can be disconnected from the second elongated member by sliding the first and second elongated members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Robert D. Newman, Jr., Judson C. Cole, Eldon Morain
  • Publication number: 20120198658
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an ergonomic apparatus includes a rod having a first end and a second end, a first gripping member coupled proximate the first end, an engagement member coupled to the second end and a second gripping member movably coupled to the rod between the first end and the second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Matthew Scott Graham, Troy Daniel Mason, Lou B. Schiesz, Pam S. Schiesz
  • Patent number: 8234755
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an extension for handles of an existing device. In accordance with the current invention, extensions can be connected to the handles and securely adjusted in both generally vertical and generally horizontal directions. Extensions of the current invention are particularly well-suited for use with the handles of rollable devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Kolman Brand
    Inventors: Kolman Brand, Cristian A. Santizo
  • Patent number: 8214972
    Abstract: A control handle of a retractable handle assembly for travel bag is disclosed to include two control rods pivotally mounted in a base member and supported on respective compression springs, two control buttons respectively affixed to the control rods and suspending in a respective opening of a top cover being covered on the base member for operation by the user to unlock inner tubes to outer tubes, and a rotary grip formed of a top semicircular shell and a bottom semicircular shell and rotatable relative to the base member and the top cover; and two torsional springs mounted in the base member and connected with respective two opposite ends to the top semicircular shell and bottom semicircular shell of the rotary grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Wei-Hung Lai
  • Patent number: 8136254
    Abstract: An extendable hedge trimmer includes a housing having a handle end and a tool end. The handle end includes a battery and an electrical connector. The tool end includes a hedge trimming implement, a motor, and an electrical connector. The electrical connector of the tool end is electrically connected with the motor. Wiring is included within the handle end for electrically connecting the battery and the electrical connector of the handle end. The trimmer also includes a pole which is releasably connectable between the tool end and the handle end. The pole is configured for electrically connecting the handle end with the tool end. The trimmer also includes a latch mechanism for releasably attaching the pole between tool end and handle end. The trimmer also includes an input for receiving AC line power via a power cord, the trimmer configured for being powered by AC line power and/or battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: MTD Products Inc
    Inventors: Jason Gieske, Cherry A. Bochmann, Erin Q. Riddell
  • Patent number: 8132289
    Abstract: A locking device for a telescoping pole for use with a retractable handle system, the pole having at least one moveable section slideably mounted in a guide member having at least one opening. The locking device includes a body fixed to the movable section, a locking member carried by the body and movable between locking an unlocking positions, a rotatable lever carried by the body and pivotable between a release position, in which relative movement is permitted between the movable section and the guide member, and a blocking position, in which the lever comes to bear on the guide member and exerts a force assuring a transverse immobilization of the moveable section in the guide member. The lever is coupled to the locking member to be displaced toward the blocking position when the locking member is engaged in the opening under the force produced by a restoring element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Rowenta Werke GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Hahn
  • Publication number: 20120042477
    Abstract: Resiliently movable fingers receive a portion of a foldable handle therebetween to retain the handle against folding relative to a frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Junk, Craig R. Butzlaff, Ryan S. Jaskowiak, Shane M. O'Connor, Andy J. Bingen
  • Publication number: 20120043452
    Abstract: An apparatus for gripping a handheld device is provided. The apparatus includes a base for affixing the apparatus to a first surface of the handheld device; at least one extension extending from the base at a first end of the extension; and a grip extending from the at least one extension at a second end of the extension, wherein the grip is oriented substantially parallel to the first surface of the handheld device, wherein the apparatus is adapted to receive a portion of at least one finger inserted between the grip and the handheld device, wherein the apparatus is adapted to receive a portion of each of two fingers inserted between the grip and the handheld device at opposite sides of the at least one extension, and wherein the grip is movable into at least one angled position where one end of the grip is pointed towards the base while an opposite end of the grip is pointed away from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Shayne KARMATZ
  • Patent number: 8112851
    Abstract: A casket with retractable handles which are flush with the sidewalls. The casket comprises a first and second sidewall, a first and second end wall, an exterior bottom, an interior floor, a top connected to one of said sidewall and at least one reinforcement member offset form one of said sidewall. A first and second opening are linearly aligned and pass through a sidewall and the reinforcement member respectively. An elongated handle with a first end and a second end, extends through and is slidingly received in said first and second opening, said handle having a stored position wherein said first end is flush with said sidewall and an extended position where said handle extends from said sidewall. In the preferred embodiment the elongated handles are located between a plane of the exterior bottom and a plane of the interior floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Paul D. Hughes
  • Patent number: 8096018
    Abstract: A handle pivot structure includes carrier frame, a handle, and a pivot shaft mounted in an axle hole of the handle to pivotally secure the handle to a screw rod of the carrier frame, the pivot shaft having a mounting member threaded onto the screw rod of the carrier member and a rotating member peripherally affixed to the axle hole of the handle and rotatably coupled to the mounting member for allowing biasing of the handle relative to the carrier frame to move an engagement member thereof in an out of an opening on the carrier frame between a locking position and an unlocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Tekserve Corp.
    Inventor: Hong-Chi Lee
  • Patent number: 8091606
    Abstract: An operating wand has a handle, an upper rod connected by an intermediate rod having one end pivotably attached to the upper end of the handle and the opposite end pivotably attached to the lower end of the upper rod. A sleeve slides along the upper rod between a first position and a second position. When in the first position the sleeve covers a portion of the upper rod, the handle, and the intermediate rod, keeping the handle, intermediate rod and upper rod in a co-linear alignment. When the sleeve is in the second position, the handle and intermediate rod are fully exposed allowing the intermediate rod to be moved relative to the handle and the upper rod so that the intermediate rod is normal to the handle and normal to the upper rod. With the sleeve in the second position the wand can be operated like a crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming Nien, Yu-Che Wen
  • Publication number: 20110308045
    Abstract: A work machine handle device having a foldable handle is disclosed. As the handle is to be changed from a folded-up state to a use state, the handle is turned about a frame as a turning fulcrum. An actuating protuberance provided integrally to a turning member of a clamp body is pushed by a handle engaging/disengaging part provided to a front end of the handle, and the turning member is caused to turn. The handle engaging/disengaging part is held from either side and automatically restrained by a clamp mechanism. When the handle is changed from the use state to the folded-up state, a restraining mechanism is operated to release the engagement between the restraining mechanism and a distal end of the turning member. The turning member is turned by a return force of a spring provided to the clamp body, the handle engaging/disengaging part ceases to be restrained, and the handle can be folded up.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Mizuguchi, Taiyo Onodera, Yosuke Toyohira
  • Patent number: 8056185
    Abstract: A grip structure includes two holder bars respectively affixed to two inner tubes in two outer tubes of a retractable handle for travel bag, two locating rings respectively mounted in the holder bars, a grip formed of two symmetrical annular half shells and pivotally coupled between the two locating rings; two control bolts respectively movably supported in the locating rings, and a spring-supported operating member mounted in the grip and operable to move the control bolts between a first position where the inner tubes are locked to the outer tubes and the control bolts are engaged with the locating rings to lock the grip to the inner tubes and a second position where the inner tubes are unlocked from the outer tubes and the control bolts are biasable with the grip relative to the inner tubes of the retractable handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Wei-Hung Lai
  • Patent number: 8056188
    Abstract: A door assembly for a vehicle includes a door panel, a primary assist handle, a secondary assist handle, and a first and second extension. The primary assist handle and the secondary assist handles are configured for being grasped by the user of the vehicle. A first extension extends from the door panel. A second extension extends from a second mounting portion of the secondary assist handle, in spaced relationship to the first extension. The extensions pivotally support ends of the primary assist handle. The primary assist handle pivots relative to each of the extensions and the door of the vehicle, between a retracted position and an extended position. A first mounting portion of the secondary assist handle pivotally extends from the door panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Jean-Paul Villeminey
  • Publication number: 20110252838
    Abstract: A swing handle assembly (500) comprising a swing handle member (510) and a supporting frame (520) therefore where when the handle member substantially contacts the frame, the handle assembly is in a closed condition. The handle member (510) comprises at least an outer surface (511) and two side walls (512), each side wall including an opening (513) therein wherein the openings are substantially aligned to define a passageway (513) through the handle member. The supporting frame (520) bears a capture means (521), which capture means is substantially receivable within the handle member and is in substantial alignment with the passageway therethrough when the handle assembly is in the closed condition, such, that to then place the handle assembly in a locked condition, a separate securing means (900) is able to be passed through the passageway and the capture means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: David Martin Stuckey
  • Publication number: 20110225771
    Abstract: An assist handle assembly for a vehicle includes a body and at least a first hinge assembly rotatably coupled to the body. A primary spring interconnects the body and the first hinge assembly and biases the body from an open position into a stowed position. A secondary spring interconnects the body and the first hinge assembly, and biases against the primary spring when the body is between the open position and an intermediate position to resist rotation of the body into the stowed position, and biases with the primary spring when the body is between the intermediate position and the stowed position to assist rotation of the body into the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Brian K. Bartnick
  • Patent number: 8015669
    Abstract: This present invention is a handle with a hidden belt, applying to a handle attached on a portable device, which uses torsion springs to draw the belt into the handle. Thus, a user can not only carry the portable device with the handle, but also shoulder or hang the portable device with the hidden belt of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Chao-Fu Huang, Chien-Chiang Huang
  • Publication number: 20110214255
    Abstract: An assist grip includes a mounting clip formed of metal having spring resiliency and bent into a generally U shape. The mounting clip includes a pair of resilient legs. Each of the resilient legs includes a bulging portion that bulges outwardly and is provided with a retention portion to be retained by a mounting location of a vehicle body structure. Each of the resilient legs further includes at the leading end a stepped region for engagement against an inner peripheral region of a rectangular opening of a hinge body. The stepped region includes an extended region and a retaining pawl that extends outwardly relative to the extended region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Hideki Kajio, Shouji Kawakami, Kazuhiro Kawamura
  • Patent number: 8006351
    Abstract: Handles allow hand tools, implements or other utensils to operate within their arc of natural use, motion and attack without requiring extension, flexion, radial deviation, or ulnar deviation of the wrist from the neutral plane of the forearm. The preferred embodiments further include a grip shaped to increase the effectiveness of the tool and minimize antagonism between muscles and tendons of the wrist, forearm and upper arm, while maximizing the effectiveness of the gripping force delivered to it by the user. Maintaining the wrist and forearm in a neutral position increases a tool user's potential strength by increasing the synergy between large muscles of the forearm and upper arm and shoulders. It also decreases compression of the tendons and nerves in the carpal tunnel and between the wrist and forearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Radius Garden LLC
    Inventor: Bruce Baker
  • Publication number: 20110203078
    Abstract: A load bearing grab bar to be used in public and household restrooms to aid elderly or handicapped people in lowering or raising themselves from a toilet or wheelchair. The grab bar attaches to an existing handrail, and has an adjustable support leg that attaches to a wall or floor to provide better stability when weight is applied. The grab bar rotates from a vertical stored position to a horizontal in-use position to allow for better and safer mobility around a home bathroom or public toilet stall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: David L. Farrow, SR.
  • Patent number: 8002491
    Abstract: A system and a method for securely connecting, or interlocking two pole sections together to ensure that they do not disconnect during use. The system includes a tubular female end portion of the first pole section and a male end portion of the second pole section that is insertable into the female end portion. The system additionally includes a locking nut threadingly engaged with the male end portion that is rotatable on the male end portion to longitudinally transition the locking nut into contact with the female end portion to fixedly interlock the male and female end portions. Furthermore, the system includes a biased locking sleeve assembly slidably and rotatably mounted on a locking assembly portion of the second pole. The locking sleeve assembly can include a locking sleeve and a biased plunger slidingly positioned within an interior of the locking sleeve for applying a locking force to the locking nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Whitling, Gregory Francisco, William Dale Jones
  • Patent number: 8001655
    Abstract: A luggage handle includes a support unit, a control unit and an operation unit. The support unit includes an outer tube having at least one locking hole. The control unit includes a first casing, a second casing, a slide, a push spring, a push shank, an elastic member, a weight and a restoring spring. Thus, when the luggage handle is subjected to a larger shock, the weight is moved downward to move its stop block to abut the limit block of the slide to prevent the locking stub of the slide from being detached from the locking hole of the outer tube and to prevent the pull bar and the inner tube of the operation unit from being moved outwardly from the support seat of the support unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: Chien-Shan Wang
  • Publication number: 20110185539
    Abstract: A frame for a device for applying architectural coatings has a handle which may be mounted in three positions—a storage position, a wheelbarrow position and a normal cart position. The handle may be moved from one position to another by removing a pin, moving the handle to the desired position and reinserting the pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Barry W. Mattson, James C. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7958603
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary handle for a closing mechanism of a sash of a window, a leaf of a door, or the like, particularly a sliding sash or leaf, comprising an actuating grip, which in the neutral position can be disposed such that it is retracted in the sash or leaf at least partially with regard to the height and which can be pivoted from the neutral position in a working position as a folding grip such that it protrudes, wherein in the working position it can be rotated about a rotational axis. An operating element is provided, which is used to bring about a coupling or decoupling position in relation to a control element, which rotates together with the actuating grip in the coupling position and does not rotate along in the decoupling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Roto Frank AG
    Inventors: Gonzalo Rivera Franco, Francisco Cãnas Diaz
  • Publication number: 20110119869
    Abstract: A unitary damper shaft extender for HVAC air ducts, the extender comprising a unitary apparatus comprised of two interlocked, but relatively movable members. One of the members being capable of interlocking with a damper shaft, and he second member being slidably movable to cover, and thereby lock the first member to the damper shaft, so as to extend its length beyond the usual insulation used for air ducts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen S. Martin
  • Patent number: 7941898
    Abstract: A window operator handle securable to a casement window operating drive shaft is described. The handle is movable between an operating position to a folded position The handle has a body housing that has a cavity which includes an operating mechanism. The operating mechanism has an assembly body secured to the housing, a pivotal member positioned in a first section of the assembly body and a sliding member positioned in at least a second portion of the assembly body. The pivotal member is adapted to pivot from a first position to a second position as the handle is moved from a first position to a second position. The pivotal member is held in one position and the other position by the sliding member. The sliding member is retained in contact with the pivotal member by a spring means in said assembly body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventors: Luke Liang, Tong Liang
  • Publication number: 20110101716
    Abstract: A lineman's pole having telescoping sections is connected by a push button assembly for temporarily fixing the length of the pole by holding sections together. The push button assembly is accessible from an end of the pole and can be installed, removed, and positioned via a connector accessible from one open end of the pole. A tool engages the connector on the push button, allowing for pulling, pushing, and rotating the button into a desired position. One connector includes a threading. A threaded tool engages the threads, allowing the user to pull the push button out of the telescoping pole. The connector, such as the threads within a bore in an adapter holding the push button, allows for removing the push button assembly. The push button assembly connects and releases cylindrical sections of the telescoping lineman's pole via openings in the surface of the telescoping sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Matthew Nolte, Eugene Wood, Michael Nolte
  • Patent number: 7934289
    Abstract: Disclosed is a foldable cross-patterned pull-handle and a bag having the same. The pull-handle includes a folding means having a first link assembly and a second link assembly connected to an end of the first link assembly so that the folding means can be folded and retracted or unfolded and extended, the first link assembly having two links connected to each other so that the links cross each other at a center portion, a first end of the second link assembly being supported on a bag; and a handle means mounted on a second end of the folding means and grabbed by a user with hand. Due to the structural characteristics of the link assemblies constituting the folding means, the length of the bag handle can be adjusted variously by folding or unfolding it, and the bag handle can be installed in a reduced space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Carimax Corporation
    Inventor: Hyung Joo Kwon
  • Patent number: 7936562
    Abstract: In a grip device of the present invention, shielding members are placed in the openings of a handle in which arm members are to be arranged, respectively. This can make it difficult for a foreign matter to enter the handle via the openings. The presence of the shielding members can prevent a foreign matter from being caught between the handle and each of the arm members when the handle is moved from the extended position to the retracted position, resulting in a smooth movement of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Nagamura, Hitoshi Nakatani, Shintaro Tanaka, Haruka Kaneko
  • Publication number: 20110097136
    Abstract: An extendable linkage mechanism for operating a slave actuator over a range of distances from a master actuator, an extendable handle for operating a tool over a range of handle length; and a tool for use by an operator for dispensing drywall joint compound into joints between sheets of drywall. Slanted engagement surfaces on master and slave wedges engage each other as well as master and slave rods to transmit motion and force at varying distances, for instance, from a lever at one end to a clamp at the other end. The elongated slave rod passes through orifices in the wedges. Structural or tubular members may slidably engage to provide extendability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: DAVID T. ROMAN
  • Publication number: 20110078877
    Abstract: An extensible handle formed from an L-shaped tubular member having a generally arcuate elbow. The extensible handle is coupled to a wheeled cart with a clamping assembly. The clamping assembly includes first and second individual clamping members disposed in a side-by-side relationship at opposing ends of the main body. The first clamping member includes a first aperture formed from opposing hemispherical walls of the main body and is dimensioned to axially receive the L-shaped tubular member therethrough. The second clamping member includes a second aperture formed by a pair of split opposing walls of the main body and is dimensioned to axially receive a longitudinal section of a cart member therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: TOBIN RISNER
  • Publication number: 20110072601
    Abstract: Devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods related to extendable devices. Specifically, the disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods relate to extendable devices having a first handle section, a second handle section, an implement section, an advancement strip. Some example embodiments further include a guide block and a spring to assist in extension and/or retraction of the device. Some example embodiments further include an advancement strip channel to assist in extension and/or retraction of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Craig Serio, John Edward Cronin, Nancy Edwards Cronin, Sarju Safeek
  • Patent number: 7861463
    Abstract: A sliding door grab bar opener for opening and closing a sliding door. The opener includes outside and inside tube members, each having first and second ends. The inside tube member is positioned within the outside tube member and is adapted to slide from a fully retracted configuration with the first end of the inside tube member being located adjacent the first end of the outside tube member to a fully extended configuration with the first end of the inside tube member being located adjacent the second end of the outside tube member. First and second end stanchion members are attached to the outside and inside tube members adjacent their first and second ends, respectively. A middle stanchion member is attached to the outside tube member adjacent its second end. The stanchion members are adapted to be attached to the frames of the sliding door panels by fastener means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: James T. Nottage
  • Patent number: 7836557
    Abstract: Handles allow hand tools, implements or other utensils to operate within their arc of natural use, motion and attack without requiring extension, flexion, radial deviation, or ulnar deviation of the wrist from the neutral plane of the forearm. The preferred embodiments further include a grip shaped to increase the effectiveness of the tool and minimize antagonism between muscles and tendons of the wrist, forearm and upper arm, while maximizing the effectiveness of the gripping force delivered to it by the user. Maintaining the wrist and forearm in a neutral position increases a tool user's potential strength by increasing the synergy between large muscles of the forearm and upper arm and shoulders. It also decreases compression of the tendons and nerves in the carpal tunnel and between the wrist and forearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Radius Garden LLC
    Inventor: Bruce Baker
  • Publication number: 20100281642
    Abstract: A representative telescopic device includes a housing, a telescopic stick, and an attachment system. The telescopic stick is configured to be housed in the housing in a closed position. The telescopic stick includes one or more segments that is configured to extend into an elongated stick in an extended position. The attachment system is attached to an end of the telescopic stick. The attachment system includes a locking mechanism that locks and unlocks an attachment to the telescopic stick. The attachment system further includes an attachment actuation mechanism that opens and closes the attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Jimmy Lee
  • Publication number: 20100275415
    Abstract: A convertible wheeled luggage handle comprises a housing holding a movable swivel handle, and the swivel handle is locked from moving outside the housing by a spring-loaded detent pin engaging a hole, and this detent pin can be raised from the hole freeing the swivel handle to pivot outside the housing by a retainer pin driven through the width of the swivel handle at the housing, and each end of this retainer pin protrudes slightly from each side of the swivel handle, and these protruding ends correspondingly sit into two accommodating slide members located along opposite lengths of the walls locking the swivel handle to the housing, besides locking and being the pivot point for the swivel handle these protruding pin-ends from the retainer pin have the additional function of sliding the swivel handle along the slide members in order to position the swivel handle outside/perpendicular to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventors: Oscar Gonzales, Bonnie Jean Gonzales
  • Patent number: 7774901
    Abstract: A retractable handle assembly includes an outer pipe, an inner pipe, an outer mounting sleeve, a control seat, a positioning post, a movable pin, a control knob, and a link. Thus, the positioning post extends through the through bore of the outer mounting sleeve and is inserted into one of the two positioning holes of the inner pipe to lock the inner pipe onto the outer pipe, so that the inner pipe and the outer pipe are combined solidly and stably to bear a greater load, thereby enhancing the strength of the retractable handle assembly. In addition, the inner pipe and the outer pipe are not in frictional contact to prevent from incurring jam between the inner pipe and the outer pipe, thereby enhancing the lifetime of the retractable handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Ho Cheng Garden Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yao-Chung Huang
  • Publication number: 20100176566
    Abstract: A handle height adjusting mechanism includes: a coupling member disposed on a handle tube of a stroller; an actuating member disposed movably on the handle tube, and coupled to the coupling member for driving movement thereof; an engaging member connected to the coupling member; and a resilient member coupled to the coupling member for biasing the coupling member to a first position, where the engaging member engages the selected positioning hole to arrest movement of the handle tube relative to the frame tube. The actuating member is operable to move the coupling member to a second position against biasing action of the resilient member, such that the engaging member is removed from the selected positioning hole so as to permit movement of the handle tube relative to the frame tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Hao YANG, Dao-Chang Li
  • Patent number: 7744141
    Abstract: A retractable grip assist handle assembly provides an extendable support for a passenger during ingress to or egress from the vehicle. The retractable grip assist handle assembly includes a handle, and a body portion having a first end connected to the handle and the handle and body portion are extendable relative to the vehicle. A mechanical energy storage device is connected between a second end of the body portion and the vehicle. The mechanical energy storage device provides a return force that returns the handle to a retracted position from an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignees: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Toyota Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Saionji, Saori Nakano, Masaya Koyama, Toyoshi Nakamoto
  • Patent number: 7721391
    Abstract: Locking mechanisms for releasably connecting handle extensions to tool handles having either compatible lock engaging end portions or standard internally threaded sockets include an adaptor mounted on an outboard end of a handle extension, the adaptor including an extension pole tip with circumferentially spaced thread segments axially insertable into tool handle sockets having compatible lock engaging end portions and threadably connectable to tool handles having standard internally threaded sockets. Means are provided for preventing relative rotation between the adaptor and tool handles having compatible lock engaging end portions when the extension pole tip is fully inserted into the tool handle sockets and for preventing inadvertent pull out of the extension pole tip from the tool handle sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: The Wooster Brush Company
    Inventors: Richard K. Bukovitz, John L. Scott, Sr., Michael L. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7721377
    Abstract: An extendable handle for a drywall tool having a pair of telescoping tubes that are reversibly locked in place relative to each other by a locking assembly comprising a lever, a pin and a yoke that are mounted on a base positioned on a first tube. The pin is actuated by the lever and engages an opening on the second tube to lock the tubes in place. The pin and lever are spaced apart circumferentially on the handle and are connected by the yoke. The yoke is received in a slot in the base and does not extend beyond the surface of base during operation of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Axia Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Matt Jungklaus, David J. Castagnetta, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7716790
    Abstract: A hands-free system for connecting and disconnecting a tool from an adjustable length extension pole. The system includes first and second slidably interconnected elongated members, a tool-holding assembly releasably coupled to the second elongated member, and a locking assembly disposed between the first and second elongated members. The relative sliding of the first and second elongated members can be selectively restrained by rotating the first and second elongated members relative to one another. The tool-holding assembly can be disconnected from the second elongated member by sliding the first and second elongated members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Robert D. Newman, Jr., Judson C. Cole, Eldon Morain
  • Publication number: 20100115731
    Abstract: A hands-free system for connecting and disconnecting a tool from an adjustable length extension pole. The system includes first and second slidably interconnected elongated members, a tool-holding assembly releasably coupled to the second elongated member, and a locking assembly disposed between the first and second elongated members. The relative sliding of the first and second elongated members can be selectively restrained by rotating the first and second elongated members relative to one another. The tool-holding assembly can be disconnected from the second elongated member by sliding the first and second elongated members together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Robert D. Newman, JR., Judson C. Cole, Eldon Morain
  • Patent number: 7712393
    Abstract: A safety grip for a handwheel which is movable between an operating position and a home position is comprised of an elongated and ergonomic body (1) and of a support (2), which is anchored to the body of a maneuvering member, such as a handwheel. The body (1) is comprised of an outer case (1a), a rod-like inner core (3) with a head (4), a bushing (6) slidably mounted on the core (3), a sleeve (7) in sliding engagement on the bushing (6), an axial thrust spring (9) arranged between two opposite shoulders (6a) and (7a) of the bushing (6) and of the sleeve (7), and a second thrust spring (10) arranged between the head (4) and the top of the bushing (6). The body (1) is connected to the support (2) at a pivot point (5). An end of the sleeve (7) engages a contact surface of the support (2) through a collar (8). The collar (8) has an inner conical mouth surface that engages a shaped rib (11) on the top of said support (2), where the shaped rib (11) has a frusto-conical outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Elesa S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alberto Bertani