Knob-type Handle Patents (Class 16/441)
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Patent number: 11255636Abstract: A locking adjustment device for adjusting a setting of an aimed optical device, such as a riflescope, locks at a home or baseline position to provide expedient feedback regarding an adjustment position of the adjustable setting. The device includes a knob mountable for rotation about a rotational axis when the adjustment device is installed on the aimed optical device, where the knob is rotatable about the rotational axis. The device further includes a catch that automatically locks the knob in the home or baseline position and prevents further rotation of the knob until the catch is released. A lock-release mechanism carried by the knob is manually actuable to disengage the catch and allow the knob to be manually rotated away from the locked position.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2020Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Assignee: LEUPOLD & STEVENS, INC.Inventor: Quint Crispin
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Patent number: 11154977Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus may be provided for gripping a handheld instrument. A spherical body may be configured to support at least a portion of the handheld instrument. A working portion of the handheld instrument may be oriented below a body of the gripping device. A top opening may be provided at a top of the gripping device, wherein the top opening may be configured to receive a portion of the handheld instrument. A bottom opening at the bottom of the gripping device may be provided, wherein the bottom opening may be configured to receive a portion of the handheld instrument. A convex surface may receive a palmar surface of a user's fingers, thumb, and/or hand.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2019Date of Patent: October 26, 2021Inventor: Janet Mary Jackson-Coty
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Patent number: 10808856Abstract: Provided is a flow control valve which improves a mounting efficiency. An MCV8 includes a housing including a valve-element housing portion, a first communicating aperture which introduces cooling water, which is flown out of a first water channel formed in an engine, to a valve-element housing portion, and a second communicating aperture which discharges the cooling water in the valve-element housing portion to a second water channel formed in the engine; a rotor accommodated in the valve-element housing portion and configured to change a flow rate of the cooling water discharged to the second water channel, according to a rotation angle of the rotor; and a drive mechanism configured to control the rotation angle of the rotor. The first and second communicating apertures open in an engine-side mounting surface of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2018Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignee: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.Inventors: Zhenyu Shen, Shigo Murakami, Hideaki Nakamura
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Patent number: 10739164Abstract: A circuit for detecting motion of an object includes a semiconductor substrate having first and second opposing surfaces. The circuit also includes a magnetic field sensor disposed on the first surface of the substrate and configured to generate a respective plurality of magnetic field sensor output signals in response to a magnetic field associated with the object. At least one of the magnetic field sensor output signals is indicative of an angular position of the magnetic field with respect to the sensor. Additionally, at least one of the magnetic field sensor output signals is indicative of an amplitude of the magnetic field.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2017Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: Allegro MicroSystems, LLCInventors: Bruno Luis Uberti, Manuel Rivas
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Patent number: 10730215Abstract: An insert molding apparatus includes a forming die in which a first part is arranged, and that molds resin such that a portion of the first part is exposed; and a first mounting part that is arranged at a portion where the first part is exposed, and that has a passage that passes through a space in the forming die into which the molten resin is supplied and a portion where the first part is arranged.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2018Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOKAI KOGYO CO., LTD.Inventors: Kazuo Hirasawa, Kenji Tamura
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Patent number: 10595864Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an adapter assembly for electrically and mechanically interconnecting electromechanical surgical devices and surgical loading units. The adapter assembly includes an articulation assembly having a rotatable drive shaft having a proximal end rotatable by a surgical device and a distal end having a gear with external teeth, a gear nut including external gear teeth meshingly engaged with the external teeth of the gear, a screw disposed within the gear nut and including external threads engaged with internal threads of the gear nut such that the screw is axially moveable relative to the gear nut, and an articulation bar operably coupled to the screw such that axial movement of the screw results in corresponding axial movement of the articulation bar.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2016Date of Patent: March 24, 2020Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: David Nicholas
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Patent number: 10578399Abstract: A locking adjustment device for adjusting a setting of an aimed optical device, such as a riflescope, locks at a home or baseline position to provide expedient feedback regarding an adjustment position of the adjustable setting. The device includes a knob mountable for rotation about a rotational axis when the adjustment device is installed on the aimed optical device, where the knob is rotatable about the rotational axis. The device further includes a catch that automatically locks the knob in the home or baseline position and prevents further rotation of the knob until the catch is released. A lock-release mechanism carried by the knob is manually actuatable to disengage the catch and allow the knob to be manually rotated away from the locked position.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2015Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: LEUPOLD & STEVENS, INC.Inventor: Quint Crispin
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Patent number: 10509365Abstract: A display hand intended to equip a timepiece, including a body and a pipe, providing an arbor hole arranged for fitting the display hand onto a drive arbor. The body is made of a composite material, the pipe includes, over all or part of the outer periphery, a surface for connection to the hand body to ensure the adhesion of the composite material to the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2018Date of Patent: December 17, 2019Assignee: ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere SuisseInventor: Olivier Mertenat
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Patent number: 10496124Abstract: A projector includes a main body and an adjusting assembly. The main body includes a casing, a light source, a light valve, and a projection lens. The casing has an opening. The adjusting assembly includes a rotation shaft, a knob, and at least one fastening component. The rotation shaft is connected to the main body. The knob is disposed on the rotation shaft and located in the opening. One of the rotation shaft and the knob has at least one fastening hole. The at least one fastening component penetrates the at least one fastening hole and is fixed to another one of the rotation shaft and the knob. An inner diameter of the at least one fastening hole is larger than an outer diameter of the at least one fastening component.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2018Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: Coretronic CorporationInventors: Mao-Min Fu, I-Hsien Liu
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Patent number: 10401035Abstract: A knob assembly for a gas cooktop is provided that includes a receptacle mounted between a valve and a knob. The knob directly mounts to a knob control rod and is configured to mount in a vertical plane perpendicular to a plane defined by a horizontal support surface for a cooking receptacle. The receptacle includes a receptacle abutment wall, a receptacle wall extending from the receptacle abutment wall, and a control rod aperture wall formed through the receptacle abutment wall. The control rod aperture wall is sized and positioned to support insertion of the knob control rod therethrough. The receptacle abutment wall is configured to abut a back of a control panel when the knob assembly is mounted to the control panel. The receptacle wall is sized and positioned within a knob aperture wall formed through the control panel when the knob assembly is mounted to the control panel.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2016Date of Patent: September 3, 2019Assignee: WOLF APPLIANCE, INC.Inventors: Jason C. Pionek, Mark R. Eckert, Curtis Leroy Cruver, IV, William Cesare Cesaroni, Curt P. Vitcenda, Patrick W. Best
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Patent number: 10087973Abstract: A U-clip assembly for a securing a component to an edge of a panel having an aperture therethrough. The U-clip assembly includes a U-shaped body with a back support member and a front support member each extending transversely from a base for straddling the edge of the panel. A cylinder extends from a lower surface of the base and together definite a first bore for threadedly receiving a screw. The back support member defines a retaining tab for engaging the aperture of the panel. The front support member defines a pair of slots to define a central portion therebetween and two outer portions with the central portion extending to a blade for engaging a face of the panel to secure the body thereupon and with each of the outer portions defining secondary clamping members for engaging the same face of the panel and further secure the body thereupon.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2016Date of Patent: October 2, 2018Assignee: A. RAYMOND ET CIEInventors: John Wilusz, Bradley S. Axelson
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Patent number: 9821631Abstract: An air vent dial for an automobile includes an air vent housing having an air path and a damper for opening or closing the air path; a dial housing provided in the air vent housing and having an opening and holding projections; and a dial assembly having a dial knob to be fitted into the opening and a rear fixing plate connected to the damper through a link member to control the opening and closing degrees of the damper. The dial housing has the holding projections at positions corresponding to opening and closing positions of the damper. The dial assembly has a dial elongated hole and fixing projection projecting inwards and contacting the holding projections while being guided and moving along the rear outer peripheral surface of the dial housing at outside of the rear fixing plate having the dial elongated hole.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2014Date of Patent: November 21, 2017Assignee: NIFCO KOREA INC.Inventor: Jeong Hoon Kim
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Patent number: 9808049Abstract: A clamping device for a cable closure system. The clamping device (1) includes a supporting base (2), a pulley (3), operatively associable with a closure cable, and a handle (4), connected integrally to the pulley (3) and manually activatable. The clamping device (1) includes first and second retaining means (5,6) operatively engageable with a toothed surface (331) of the pulley (3) and control means (7), separate from said handle (4). The retaining means (5,6) and the control means (7) are operatively associated with one another so as to be able to obtain a complete release or a controlled release of the clamping tension of the closure cable.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: NORTHWAVE S.R.L.Inventor: Gianni Piva
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Patent number: 9657498Abstract: A handle assembly and related methods for actuating a mechanism such as a disconnect switch.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2011Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: ROCKWELL AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Homer S. Sambar, Jeffrey Annis, Brian G. Staeden
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Patent number: 9604803Abstract: A push-pull latch assembly for a detachable media pick mechanism. The latch assembly comprises a handle that is slidably and axially insertable into a handle base which is mounted to the pick mechanism housing. The handle base includes a pair of cantilevered, opposed latched arms having opposed catches for engagement with a groove positioned inboard a free end of a cantilevered drive shaft for the pick mechanism. The handle includes triangular rails having inner and outer ramps used to separate the opposed latch arms. The outer ramp separates the latch arms when the handle is inserted into the handle base. The inner ramp separates the latch arms during removal of the pick mechanism from the drive shaft. An axial pushing force engages the latch assembly to the groove and an axial pulling force disengages the latch assembly from the groove allowing for pick assembly removal.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2016Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.Inventors: Angel Macuha Alagos, Generoso Tebordo De La Cerna
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Patent number: 9388915Abstract: A replaceable faucet handle may include a handle, a handle body, a first adapter unit, a second adapter unit and a nut. A base is located on one side of the handle, and a recessed portion is formed on the bottom thereof with a screw hole. The handle body comprises a space formed therein, and a block configured to connect to the recessed portion is formed on the top thereof. The first adapter unit has two first driving blocks, a first through hole formed on a central portion thereof for penetration, and a first cutting edge formed on one side of the first through hole. The second adapter unit has two second driving blocks, a second through hole formed on a central portion thereof for penetration, and three connected second cutting edges formed on one side of the second through hole.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2015Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignee: Alexander Yeh Industry Co Ltd.Inventor: Yiu-Kuei Yeh
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Patent number: 9308847Abstract: A lumbar support operation member comprising a shaft attachment portion that is configured so as to be fixed to a rotation shaft that transmits rotation force to a moving mechanism of a lumbar support provided to a seatback and that is positioned at a side portion of the seatback; and operation portions that are provided at an radial direction outside of the shaft attachment portion, that are separated from each other in a circumferential direction of the shaft attachment portion, and that make the shaft attachment portion rotate.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2013Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: NHK SPRING CO., LTD.Inventors: Shinji Arakawa, Akihiro Hayashi, Hiroshi Tsunashima, Kozo Yamaura
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Patent number: 9087657Abstract: An operating knob including a first illumination portion with an annular shape and a second illumination portion, is provided around the operating knob. The operating knob is configured by a combination of an inner shaft body made of a resin and a grip ring body, allowing the inner shaft body to be fitted outward. A light shielding cap is attached to a front end portion of the inner shaft body. A cylindrical light guide portion having the first illumination portion in the front end face and a drive portion to be connected to a rotating shaft are integrally molded in the inner shaft body, and a rear end face of the cylindrical light guide portion opposes a first light emitting face. A light incident face opposes a light source and the first and second illumination portions and are illuminated by light of the light source via the light guide member.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2013Date of Patent: July 21, 2015Assignee: ALPS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.Inventor: Shinya Urayama
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Patent number: 9044853Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a dental device holder for holding a dental device in place and a method of use of the dental device holder for providing dental care. The dental device holder can include a spherical outer wall with a plurality of holes in the wall, wherein a dental instrument can be inserted through the holes and frictionally retained in the dental device holder. The dental device holder can include attachment elements. A strap can be attached to the dental device holder using the attachment elements.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Inventor: Jennie S. Phui
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Patent number: 8869822Abstract: A gas pressure regulator adapted for being mounted to a gas cylinder is provided. The gas pressure regulator includes a body defining a front portion and opposed side portion and a plurality of gas pressure indicators mounted to the front portion of the body. A bonnet is mounted to an exterior portion of the body, and a pressure adjustment knob is mounted to one of the side portions of the body, proximate the bonnet, and horizontally relative to a longitudinal axis of the pressurized gas cylinder. An energy absorbing device is operatively engaged with the pressure adjustment knob and the bonnet, the energy absorbing device being capable of absorbing energy from impact loads imposed on the pressure adjustment knob.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Victor Equipment CompanyInventor: Robert A. Boyer
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Patent number: 8851536Abstract: A handle for a door leaf of a motor vehicle, including a stationary portion mounted on the outer panel of the door leaf, and a gripping lever pivotably mounted relative to the stationary portion and configured to be operated by a user. The gripping lever includes: a pivotably movable outer shell having a front surface visible to a user and a rear surface opposite the front surface, and a recess provided in the outer shell, which forms an opening in the visible front surface of the outer shell, and a decorative insert attached inside the recess and having a front wall that is substantially flush with the front surface of the outer shell, a rear wall attached to the rear surface of the outer shell, and at least one rib connecting the front and rear walls of the decorative insert, the front and rear walls and the rib being made of one piece.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2010Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: VALEO S.p.A.Inventors: Fiorenzo Savant, Alberto Gramaglia
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Patent number: 8819898Abstract: A handle structure contains a body, a housing, a cover, a controlling member, and a resilient element. The body includes an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer face has a non-grip face and a flat rim, and the inner surface has a connecting column. The housing is hollow and includes a front fringe, a rear fringe, and a L-shaped recess. The cover is fixed on a rear side of the housing and used to fix a handle structure on a plate. The controlling member is fitted into the housing and includes a front end and a rear end. The front end connects with the connecting column via the front fringe. The controlling member also includes a raised portion fixed in the L-shaped recess. The resilient element located between the controlling member and the cover. Hence, the controlling member is pushed by the resilient element to move toward the body.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2013Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Inventor: Jian-Min Xie
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Patent number: 8813314Abstract: Pin apparatuses and methods are disclosed having particular suitability for use with machine handles such as those associated with walk-behind machines such as lawnmowers. A pin apparatus may include a housing defining an opening for receiving at least a portion of a pin. The pin may include an elongated pin body having a proximal end section and a distal end section. The pin apparatus may further include a pin handle external from the housing for moving the pin within the housing. At least a portion of the pin body can be positioned at least partially through a machine handle and at least a portion of the housing can be positioned outside of the machine handle. Rotation of the pin handle can move the pin between the extended position and the retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Christopher M. Osborne, Vincent Prinzo
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Patent number: 8714050Abstract: A faucet handle includes a handle having a containment space, the containment space having an assembly aperture on a top surface, the assembly aperture accepting a limiting member, with two limiting ribs disposed adjacent to two opposite sides of the assembly aperture. A plurality of adjusting members respectively have a through aperture and two engaging columns adjacent to sides of the through aperture. Each engaging column is inserted between the two limiting ribs of the handle. The adjusting member also has two engaging slots adjacent to another side of the through aperture and an assembly device having an assembly base. The assembly base has an assembly space and two positioning columns adjacent to the assembly space, and each positioning column engages with an engaging slot of the adjusting member.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Alexander Yeh Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Li-Chen Huang
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Patent number: 8713761Abstract: A handlebar coupling and adjustment unit comprises a housing, a pivot pin, a manual grip and a retaining pin. The housing receives an end portion of a handlebar. The pivot pin joins the housing to the handlebar and pivotally supports the handle relative to the handle bracket. The retaining pin is connected to the manual grip and is linearly translatable in a first direction from an extended positioned projecting beyond the housing to a withdrawn position within the housing. The manual grip is rotatable while the retaining pin is in the withdrawn position between a locked position in which the housing holds the manual grip with the retaining pin in the withdrawn position and an unlocked positioned in which the manual grip is linearly translatable in a second direction to return the retaining pin to the extended position.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Briggs & Stratton CorporationInventors: Brian D. Grewe, Stephen C. Price
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Patent number: 8534160Abstract: A retractable control device for a household electrical appliance includes a knob movable against an elastic member within an aperture or seat of a control interface of the appliance. The knob is configured to assume two working positions including a first position in which the knob is seated in the aperture and a second position in which the knob extends outwardly therefrom. The knob cooperates with a control member for a functional element of the appliance, such as an electrical resistance heater or microwave generator of an oven, or a gas burner of a cooking hob. The device also includes a cylindrical element disposed and fixed in the aperture of the control interface about the knob. The cylindrical element contains the knob when the knob is in its first position and guides its movement within the aperture along a central longitudinal axis thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2012Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Marco Giuliani, Michele Venezia, Tomasz Rydel, Marcin Mazurek, Sacha Mello
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Patent number: 8434199Abstract: A knob safety assembly is operative to selectively restrict depression of a cooking element control knob. The safety assembly includes a blocking plate disposed inside of a bezel assembly. The bezel assembly includes an outer bezel defining one or more angled camming surfaces, and an inner bezel. Rotation of the inner bezel with respect to the outer bezel about a rotational axis slides an ear of the blocking plate along the camming surface to effect movement of the blocking plate along the rotational axis between a raised position, in which the blocking plate restricts depression of a cooking element control knob, to a recessed position, in which the blocking plate facilitates depression of the control knob. The inner bezel is releasably locked from rotating with respect to the outer bezel, and engages the blocking plate to constrain the blocking plate against movement along the rotational axis when locked.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2011Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Kidkusion, Inc.Inventors: Cynthia L. Bowen, Walter Lee Bowen
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Patent number: 8353085Abstract: Provided is a sanitary handle cover configured to store and dispense sanitary fluid in response to pressure being applied to the handle cover, such as when an individual grabs the handle cover to open the door. The handle cover may additionally be adapted to be quickly and easily placed over the handle and substantially conform to the shape of the handle to remain on the handle during use.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2010Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Basic Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Alfiero Balzano
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Patent number: 8266767Abstract: A faucet handle includes a handle having a containment space, the containment space having an assembly aperture on a top surface, the assembly aperture accepting a limiting member, with two limiting ribs disposed adjacent to two opposite sides of the assembly aperture. An adjusting member has a through aperture and two engaging columns adjacent to a side of the through aperture. Each engaging column is inserted between the two limiting ribs of the handle. The adjusting member also has two engaging slots adjacent to another side of the through aperture and an assembly device having an assembly base. The assembly base has an assembly space and two positioning columns adjacent to the assembly space, and each positioning column engages with an engaging slot of the adjusting member.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Alexander Yeh Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Li-Chen Huang
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Patent number: 8220361Abstract: A rotary knob assembly (100) includes a fixed raised boss (110) having a boss cavity (107) and a knob (102) optionally having a rotary switch stem (104) therein. The knob can include a portion that axially resides within the boss cavity such that impacts to the knob transfers to the fixed raised boss. The knob can further include a rigid core member (106) and an outer over-molded portion (108) over-molded on to the rigid core member. The fixed raised boss can include an outer circumference (118) and an inner circumference (116). The inner circumference of the boss and a portion of the rigid core member and the outer circumference of the boss and the outer mover-molded portion form a knob-boss interface (117) that sustains impacts to the rotary knob assembly while isolating a rotary switch (112) from impacts.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Motorola Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Jamie L. Slavin, Jody H. Akens, Scott H. Richards
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Patent number: 8171600Abstract: The present invention provides a handle for attachment to luggage, vacuum cleaners, or another object to be moved. The handle includes a ball with a smooth surface surrounded by a hollow socket. A hole in the socket provides a passage way for a rod or other attachment mechanism to extend from the ball to the object to be moved. The socket freely moves in all directions with respect to the ball and the attachment mechanism, limited only by contact between the attachment mechanism and the edge of the hole in the socket which surrounds that attachment mechanism. Multiple ribs protrude from the interior of the hollow socket toward the ball, decreasing potential friction between the socket and the ball, thus facilitating free movement of the socket. In this manner, the socket automatically moves into a position which is ergonomically desirable for the user grasping the socket to move the object.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Gyrobag, LLCInventors: Steven Steele Draper, Zachary Earl Conrad
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Patent number: 8079287Abstract: An auto-alignable knob for a home appliance includes an offspring box self-connectable with a valve shaft. A mobile box has at least one lateral face including a pin. The mobile box is coupled to the offspring box to allow a free movement relative to one another along a first axis. A fixed box includes an indentation and a groove. The mobile box is insertable to the fixed box by insertion of the pin of the lateral face through the groove. The pin of the mobile box provides a respective degree of freedom to the mobile box relative to the indentation of the fixed box along at least a second axis normal to the first axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Mabe, S.A. de C.V.Inventor: Octavio Lugo Castillo
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Patent number: 8060988Abstract: A knob is formed of a relatively brittle material, and has a bore to receive an insert. The insert is received in the bore, and includes an internal bore to receive a fastener member to secure the knob to an underlying structure. The insert is formed with an axial passage on an outer surface of the insert. The axial passage is between the insert and an inner surface of the bore in the knob. The insert extends into the bore along an axial direction. The axial passages extend with at least a component in an axial direction. The adhesive is received in the bore in the knob, and moves upwardly into the axial passage in the insert.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp.Inventor: Earl David Forrest
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Patent number: 8011067Abstract: A handle (10) is suitable for transmitting a torque between a rotation knob and a respective output shaft connectable to cables, tubes, or the like, wherein said handle comprises at least first and second transmission lines which operate between a first rotation knob (12) and a first output shaft (22) and between a second rotation knob (14) and a second output shaft (24), respectively. The first and second rotation knobs are co-axially arranged along a common axis (X). The first and second output shafts are arranged on different axes (X, Y). The handle comprises a lock-out mechanism suitable for selecting between the first transmission line and the second transmission line thus preventing the rotation of the one rotation knob while the other is being rotated.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventor: Brian James Thompson
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Patent number: 7963003Abstract: A user-configurable replacement control knob for use on a household appliance, such as a stove. The control knob can be used to replace originally-supplied control knobs and allows individuals to tailor the aesthetics of the appliance to suit their preferences. The knob is user-configurable for control rotational direction by installing one of a plurality of uniquely configured indicator inserts into a receptacle on the forward side of the knob. The knob may also be adapted to interface with differing appliance control shaft configurations by inserting one of a plurality of torque inserts into a receptacle on the rearward side of the knob. Decorative faces on the knobs are visually fashioned in various color schemes and tactilely shaped to resemble various decorative forms that may be used to enhance or accent an overall kitchen décor. The replacement control knob provides the same function as a standard appliance control knob and allows appliance control knobs to be used as room decorating accessories.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2009Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Inventor: Melanie J. Keene
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Patent number: 7950384Abstract: Cooking appliance having an external and control panel equipped with one or more regulating valves, where the rotary regulator organ is equipped with various peripheral openings for supplying a flow Q. According to two embodiments of the cooking appliance, for the supply of one or another type of gas, NG or LPG, either the control knob or a bezel disk in the external panel are interchangeable on the appliance, being chosen between two different available units, one and the other permitting two different angular position limits A2, A3 of the regulator organ for the supply of a constant flow Qmin through one or another opening with calibrated sections, respectively for NG or LP gas. An appendix in the control knob guided in a slide groove on the control panel of the appliance, or a tongue on the bezel disk stopping the rotation of the control knob, determines the travel limit A2 for the supply of Qmin of NG.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.Inventor: Iñigo Albizuri
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Patent number: 7908713Abstract: An operating knob to be attached to a supporting member includes an operating part and a connector. The connector is attached to the operating part and includes a fitting cylindrical portion, a stopper disposed at an inner circumferential side of the fitting cylindrical portion to protrude on a radial inside, and housing portion. When the operating part is applied with a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value from an exterior in a direction toward the supporting member in a state where a fitting portion of the supporting member is fitted into the fitting cylindrical portion, the stopper is bent from the radial inside to a direction approximately parallel to the rotation axis so as to be housed in the housing portion and the fitting cylindrical portion moves toward the supporting member along an outer circumference of the fitting portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Shinichi Yoshinaka, Hiroshi Mokudai, Takashi Kawaguchi
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Patent number: 7761959Abstract: A handle assembly for a stamp has a frame, a handle and a connector. The handle and the connector are mounted respectively on opposite sides of the frame and connect with each other. Therefore, the connection between the handle and the connector is firm and robust and the stamp has a durable handle assembly with increased use-life and reliability.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventor: Shiny Shih
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Patent number: 7676891Abstract: The subject of the invention is a rotary control knob (2) of a control panel in particular for a ventilation, heating and/or air-conditioning installation of a vehicle cabin. This control knob (2) consists of a cylinder (3) provided at one of its ends with a gripping member (6) intended for the user, and equipped with at least one boss (15) for limiting its rotational travel between its end positions. Said boss (15) is formed at the base of the gripping member (6) and is covered at least partially by a flexible mass (19) emanating from a flexible covering (18) of the gripping member (6).Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Valeo Systemes Thermiques S.A.S.Inventors: Louis Lacroix, Andre Chery, Laurent Lucaora, Patrick Corduan, Kevin Callahan
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Publication number: 20100050391Abstract: A knob is formed of a relatively brittle material, and has a bore to receive an insert. The insert is received in the bore, and includes an internal bore to receive a fastener member to secure the knob to an underlying structure. The insert is formed with an axial passage on an outer surface of the insert. The axial passage is between the insert and an inner surface of the bore in the knob. The insert extends into the bore along an axial direction. The axial passages extend with at least a component in an axial direction. The adhesive is received in the bore in the knob, and moves upwardly into the axial passage in the insert.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2008Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: Earl David Forrest
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Patent number: 7657974Abstract: A knob structure includes a holder, a steel ball, an elastic metallic piece, a swiveling element and a connecting element. The holder has at least one through hole. The steel ball is slidably placed inside the through hole. The elastic metallic piece and the swiveling element reside at either sides of the holder. The elastic metallic piece slidably lies against the steel ball. The swiveling element has a sliding portion which has a plurality of notches spaced at intervals. The sliding portion slidably lies against the steel ball so that the steel ball slides into or out of the notches by turning the swiveling element. The steel ball has a smooth surface and is in point-to-point contact with the sliding portion and with the elastic metallic piece. Therefore, frictions therebetween are so small that no scraps generate due to the frictional operation.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Altek CorporationInventor: Yu-Cheng Huang
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Publication number: 20090282652Abstract: Child safe door knob having an inner knob that can freely rotate without opening the door. The inner knob adapted to be rotably and slidably mounted to an inner side of a door. The outer door knob being connected to a first end of a spindle, wherein said spindle being connected to a latch and a lock mechanism. The second end of said spindle not being engaged with the inner door knob under the normal conditions. The inner door knob becomes engaged with the spindle when aligned with the spindle and pushed in.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2008Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventor: Tagarira Maramba
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Patent number: 7568677Abstract: An operator for an air flow control device includes a button mounted on a plunger. The button is indexable at forty-five degree increments on the plunger. The button has a non-circular label area that is adapted to receive a non-circular label for the operator so as to present either a diamond shape or an octagon shape to a viewer of the button. The button can have either a snap fit or a threaded connection to the plunger.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLCInventors: Jeffrey Michael Geither, Mark A. Bennett
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Patent number: 7546664Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for a tap handle for beverage dispensing comprising a ceramic, porcelain, or stoneware handle filled with a foam, preferably polyurethane foam which renders the tap handle more resilient and resistant to sharding. Ideally, polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate foam is injected into a tap handle shell in liquid form, which solidifies and is capped with a glue, an internally threaded cap, and a protective plastic cap.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Chrislan Ceramics and Glassware Decorating, Inc.Inventors: Alan Jack Johan Laninga, Jack Anthony Laninga
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Publication number: 20080263830Abstract: An operating knob to be attached to a supporting member includes an operating part and a connector. The connector is attached to the operating part and includes a fitting cylindrical portion, a stopper disposed at an inner circumferential side of the fitting cylindrical portion to protrude on a radial inside, and housing portion. When the operating part is applied with a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value from an exterior in a direction toward the supporting member in a state where a fitting portion of the supporting member is fitted into the fitting cylindrical portion, the stopper is bent from the radial inside to a direction approximately parallel to the rotation axis so as to be housed in the housing portion and the fitting cylindrical portion moves toward the supporting member along an outer circumference of the fitting portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2008Publication date: October 30, 2008Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Shinichi Yoshinaka, Hiroshi Mokudai, Takashi Kawaguchi
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Patent number: 7412753Abstract: Pin apparatuses and methods are disclosed having particular suitability for use with machine handles such as those associated with walk-behind machines such as lawnmowers. A pin apparatus can include a housing defining an opening for receiving at least a portion of a pin. A pin can be provided having an elongated pin body with a proximal end section and a distal end section. The pin body can be adapted for positioning at least partially through the opening of the housing where the pin is movable with respect to the housing according to a method disclosed herein from an extended position where at least a portion of the distal end section extends to a predetermined extent outside of the opening, and a retracted position where the distal end section is in a retracted position from the predetermined extent. A handle can be provided external from the housing for moving the pin whereby movement of the handle moves the pin between the extended position and the retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Christopher M. Osborne, Vincent Prinzo
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Patent number: 7269881Abstract: A handle for attachment to a rotational shaft, the handle comprising a lever handle, for attachment to the rotational shaft for aiding application of torque to the shaft, and an alignment boss, separate from the lever handle, for attaching the lever handle to the shaft and for aligning the lever handle at a predetermined orientation with respect to an alignment feature of the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Pitney Bowes Ltd.Inventor: Geoffrey A. Farmer
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Patent number: 7267027Abstract: A handwheel (1) for stable, reversible engagement with an engagement end (Q) of a shaft (A) of a member to be operated. The handwheel (1) includes a stem (2) having a free end, a cavity (2A) provided in the stem (2) for cooperating with the end (Q) of the shaft (A), an elastic ring (5), and a retaining washer (6). The cavity (2A) has an open end proximate the free end of the stem (2). A first seat (3) accommodates the elastic ring (5). The first seat (3) is located proximate to the open end of the cavity (2A). A second seat (4) accommodates the retaining washer (6). The second seat (4) is located proximate to the open end of the cavity (2A).Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Elesa S.p.A.Inventor: Alberto Bertani
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Patent number: 7251861Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic equipment has an operation tool with crashing function. An operation tool 3 is supported on an encoder 5 serving as a support member. In the operation tool 3, an outer knob 9 serving as an operation portion is to be operated by an operator. A mounting cylindrical portion 19 serving as a mounting portion is formed such that it has a clearance S with respect to the outer knob 9 in the impact acting operation. And, a crashable connecting portion 21 connects together the operation portion and mounting portion and can be crashed due to an impact given to the operation portion to thereby allow the operation portion to move with respect to the mounting portion. The crashable connecting portion 21 extends radially from the mounting cylindrical portion 19 and is connected to the outer knob 9 and includes plural bridge portions formed radially.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takahiro Suzuki
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Patent number: 7246413Abstract: A magnetic knob is provided for use with a series of plates attached to threaded mounts which may be substituted for kitchen or bathroom cabinet door or drawer knobs. The user simply unscrews existing kitchen and/or bathroom cabinet knobs and replaces them with flat metal plates attached to threaded shafts. The metal plates are a direct replacement for the existing knobs and may not require any drilling or screwing or even use of tools. Once installed, the metal plates provide no means of gripping. Thus, the cabinet cannot be opened by a child or other unauthorized user (e.g., mentally handicapped individual). A knob provided with a strong magnet is provided so that an authorized user may attach the knob to one of the metal plates and thus open the cabinet.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Inventor: Charles Portelli