Manually Rotatable Crank Or Wheel Patents (Class 242/395)
  • Patent number: 11919740
    Abstract: A reel based closure device includes a housing, a spool positioned within the interior region of the housing, a knob that is operably coupled with the spool and with the housing, and a rotation control component that is operably coupled with the knob. The knob is rotatable in a tightening direction to cause the spool to rotate within the housing and thereby wind the tension member about the spool. The knob is also rotatable in a loosening direction to cause the spool to rotate in an opposite direction within the housing and thereby unwind the tension member from about the spool. The rotation control component is configured to prevent accidental loosening of the tension member by inhibiting rotation of the knob in the loosening direction until a sufficient rotational force is exerted on the knob in the loosening direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: BOA Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Randon George Kruse, Josef Duller, Charles Clay Corbett, Ryan Vogt
  • Patent number: 11919752
    Abstract: A method for securing an angular position of a crane jib displaceable in lifting and in lowering by a winch integrating a motor driving a drum on which is wound a rope and secured to a platen provided with arcuate oblong locking holes, the method including measuring a speed parameter representative of an angular speed of the jib, controlling the motor to displace the jib with a limitation of the speed parameter to a first maximum value and a limitation of a motor torque to a first limit value, until reaching an angular position in which a lock is aligned with and locked into the locking hole, and controlling the motor to displace the jib in lowering with a limitation of the speed parameter to a second maximum value and a limitation of the motor torque to a second limit value, until the speed parameter is null for a predetermined time period to stop the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: MANITOWOC CRANE GROUP FRANCE
    Inventors: Florent Mourin, Vincent Veillerot, François Lemire, Vincent Degeorge
  • Patent number: 11873187
    Abstract: The decorative string light hanging tool comprises an extension structure, a guide structure, a spool, and a light string. The guide structure and the spool mount on the extension structure. The spool stores the light string. The decorative string light hanging tool is an extension apparatus. The decorative string light hanging tool deploys the light string for display. The decorative string light hanging tool retracts the light string back into storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Inventors: Steve Konecny, Ingrid Elisabeth Brand
  • Patent number: 11858015
    Abstract: An auto-feed pipe cleaner comprises a take-up unit comprising a wire drum and a spring wire; and a feed unit comprising a telescopic tube, a feeder for disposing a movable bearing and two fixed bearings, a tube handle disposed inside the telescopic tube and embedded with the feeder, and an elastic plate embedded inside the feeder. A user holds the telescopic tube with one hand, and holds a small handle of the wire drum with another hand to rotate the wire drum forwardly or reversely and drive the spring wire to rotate forwardly or reversely, and pushes the telescopic tube forward so that the movable bearing is pressed downward by the elastic plate and actuated with the fixed bearings to start feeding the spring wire or taking up the spring wire into the wire drum. When the telescopic tube is pulled backward, the movable bearing is not actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Inventor: Kuei-Kun Wu
  • Patent number: 11827489
    Abstract: A tarp deployment system for unwinding and taking up a flexible tarpaulin. The system includes a tarp deployment machine and a spool configured to receive and retain a flexible tarpaulin. A spool gear extends radially from at least one end of the spool. A cylindrical cage has a series of parallel shafts parallel to an axis shaft of the cage. A cage gear extends from the cage axis shaft and a drive mechanism drives the cage gear in order to rotate the spool. Power is transmitted to the cage gear which then rotates the cylindrical cage which engages and rotates the spool gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: Con-Wal, Inc.
    Inventors: Shannon Dean Harrop, James Alan Hughes
  • Patent number: 11753272
    Abstract: A reel carrier that includes a pallet having a platform bound by a frame and a shaft. The carrier includes a reel that is supported on the shaft. The reel includes a round drum rotatable about the shaft, wherein the rotation may be in a forward and/or a reverse or backward rotational direction. The carrier also includes a motor operably coupled to cause rotation of the drum and may be further operably coupled to cause deployment and/or retraction of one or more wheels included with the pallet, wherein the motor also controls locomotion of the one or more wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Inventor: Gary Morrison
  • Patent number: 11643298
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bidirectional spool apparatus (BSA) and method of use. The BSA comprises a spool apparatus having a plurality of spools, a plurality of cables, and an adjustment knob. When the BSA is in a first mode, rotation of the adjustment knob causes a corresponding rotation of a first spool in a tightening direction and a tightening of a first cable but allows a second cable to rotate substantially freely, and such that when the BSA is in a second mode, rotation of the adjustment knob causes a corresponding rotation of a second spool in a tightening direction and a tightening of a second cable but allows a first cable to rotate substantially freely. Switching of the BSA from a first mode to a second mode and vice versa is accomplished by pulling the adjustment knob out a distance and by pushing the adjustment knob in a distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Inventor: Corey B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 11559052
    Abstract: An improved and efficient ice-fishing tip-up spool having a generally cylindrical shape comprising an arbor configured within a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the arbor has a diameter larger than conventional ice fishing tip-up spools. The larger arbor on the improved and efficient spool decreases the amount of fishing line required to have a full spool which can be achieved with less than 100 feet of fishing line. The large arbor spool also comprises a handle which is integrated onto the second wall and makes the spooling and re-spooling quicker in combination with the larger arbor as the fishing line spooled on per revolution is more than the fishing line spooled on per revolution by conventional ice fishing tip-up spools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Inventor: Joseph Cardenas
  • Patent number: 11479160
    Abstract: A strap winding device for efficiently and easily winding up a strap such as a cargo strap after use. The strap winding device generally includes a main body which is adapted to rest upon a structure such as a trailer on a vehicle such as a truck. A mount may be connected to the main body, with the mount being removably inserted within an opening on the trailer, such as a trailer stake pocket. A winder is rotatably connected to the mount by a sleeve, with the winder being operable to rotate a reel onto which the strap may be wound. The reel includes a pair of prongs which are tapered towards each other to ease removal of the strap after winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Inventor: Mark D. LeBrun
  • Patent number: 11427430
    Abstract: A handheld reel device for collecting and releasing string lights and that accommodates use of handles of variable lengths for manually rotating the reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Inventor: Leland Borgelt
  • Patent number: 11325807
    Abstract: A line-handling device is for letting out, winding up and locking a line. The line-handling device has: a first handle; a substantially flat reel which is rotatable relative to the first handle; a line-guiding part which is fixed relative to the first handle; a locking mechanism for locking the reel in a non-rotatable position; and an attachment element for a tautening device, the reel being displaceable relative to the first handle parallel to the rotational axis of the reel. A line-handling system is for suspending a line between two anchoring points and a method is for suspending a line between two anchoring points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: Wiral Technologies AS
    Inventors: Øivind Aabye, Eivind Sæter
  • Patent number: 11251590
    Abstract: A cable snake and a method of assembling a cable snake. The cable snake may include a housing assembly defining a cavity; an actuator rotatably supported by the housing; and a tape operable to be wound into and unwound out of the cavity, the tape applying an unwinding force. A force may be applied to the actuator and the housing assembly, the force resisting the unwinding force. A retainer assembly may be provided between and integral with the actuator and the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: ECM Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Matthew W. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 11166525
    Abstract: An article of footwear may include a motorized tensioning system. The tensioning system may include a tensile member and a motorized tightening device configured to apply tension in the tensile member to adjust the size of an internal void defined by the article of footwear. The tensioning system may further include a power source configured to supply power to the motorized tightening device. The tensile member, the motorized tightening device, and the power source may be configured to be removably attached to the article of footwear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Tiffany A. Beers
  • Patent number: 10877506
    Abstract: In combination with a crank assembly, the improvement comprising an apparatus for improving operation of the crank assembly. The apparatus includes an an end cap of a predetermined material, an elongated extension member having each of a predetermined shape, a first predetermined length and formed of a first predetermined material, such predetermined shape includes a projection on one end thereof for engagement with one end of the crank assembly. A sleeve is disposed around at least a portion of the elongated extension member, such sleeve having a second predetermined length and formed of a second predetermined material. There is a means for securing the sleeve to the elongated handle member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Inventor: Brian Herd
  • Patent number: 10344916
    Abstract: A device for holding objects such as key rings, security cameras, and the like to the corner of a pair of walls. The device is a mount having a pair of bodies each having magnets and attachment features. The device also includes connectors which can be used to connect mounts together and object supports which can be attached in multiple ways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Inventor: David C. Smith
  • Patent number: 10258109
    Abstract: A structure for attaching a shoelace winding apparatus in which a shoelace winding apparatus can be attached to a shoe is provided. The structure includes a reel that winds a shoelace by being rotated by an operation handle, a ratchet pawl that limits rotation of the reel, and a base member including a substantially cylindrical body that accommodates the reel. The base member includes an annular gear with teeth that engages with the ratchet pawl. The structure includes a base-member attachment cover and a flange portion. The cover includes a substantially cylindrical cover portion with a closed end. The cover portion secures the base member such that the base member is directly attachable and detachable from an outside of an upper section and held in the cover portion. The flange portion protrudes from the circumference of the cover portion and conforms to the shape of the shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: JAPANA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shinobu Midorikawa
  • Patent number: 10259677
    Abstract: An automatic cable spooling device is provided, comprising a frame adapted to rotatably hold a spooling drum; a drum motor operatively connected to the drum; and a levelwind arm positioned adjacent to the drum. The levelwind arm is movable in a plane aligned with the rotational axis of the drum. The system further includes an arm motor operatively connected to the levelwind arm; and a microcontroller in communication with the arm motor. An arm encoder is adapted to sense a position of the arm motor and is in communication with the microcontroller. Likewise, a drum encoder is adapted to sense a position of the drum motor and is also in communication with the microcontroller. The position of the levelwind arm is controlled by the microcontroller based on the position of the drum, the spooling width, and a predetermined cable diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Inventors: Adam Lillich, James M. Leslie
  • Patent number: 10046941
    Abstract: A cable support system includes a frame, an axle disposed within the frame, and a drum or roller having a rim for receiving the axle such that the drum is supported by and rotates on the axle, wherein the drum is in rollable contact with the cable for supporting the cable and configured for cable to move across surface of the roller while the roller is rotating to facilitate paying out or taking up the cable as the roller rotates. A stand includes a top portion in contact or physical communication with the frame and a plurality of legs which extend downwardly from the top portion, elevating the frame to facilitate the pay out or taking up of the cable over objects below the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Inventor: Roy Rich
  • Patent number: 9884214
    Abstract: The hose winding device has an open rectangular parallelepiped skeleton frame made of tubular members. The upper cross members at opposite ends of the frame include a lower wringer roller mounted on a shaft fixed to opposite sides of the frame and an upper wringer roller spaced above the lower wringer roller. The wringer rollers compress and flatten the fire hose as it is cranked through the wringer rollers, thereby removing any water left inside the hose. A pair of spaced apart, vertical guide rollers are mounted closely behind the wringer rollers, the four rollers being configured similar to a winch's roller fairlead, permitting the hose to be smoothly wound on the device without first straightening the hose. A hand crank is removably mounted to opposite sides of the frame halfway between opposite ends of the frame. The crank has a hose coupler retainer extending parallel to the crank's axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Inventor: Naieef F. N. M. D. Al-Mutairi
  • Patent number: 9777895
    Abstract: An ornament device for storing and deploying ornamental lights is formed as a shell or housing. The shell or housing stores and provides for deploying a string of ornament lights. The sting of ornamental lights is formed with an electrical wire interconnecting a plurality of ornamental lights interspaced along the wire that is connected on opposing wire ends to a male connector and a female connector. A retractable winding mechanism is arranged within the shell or housing for winding and maintaining the string of lights to a storage state and, for unwinding the string of lights to a deployment state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: John Paul Bokun
  • Patent number: 9586794
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a winch having a user-adjustable or variable initial mechanical advantage. In one embodiment, the winch of the present disclosure has an outer drum diameter adjustable between a minimum outer drum diameter, which is associated with a maximum initial mechanical advantage provided by the winch, and a maximum outer drum diameter, which is associated with a minimum initial mechanical advantage provided by the winch. This provides a user with the flexibility to adjust or vary the mechanical advantage of the winch to the user's preference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Hyuk Joon Chung, Zhengzhong Zhu
  • Patent number: 9126800
    Abstract: A cable reel/assembly is provided for storing, deploying, retrieving and transporting a cable assembly (having a cable and connectors). The cable reel includes a central hub and two side flanges constructed, in one embodiment, of composite plastic material having reinforcing material(s). An annular rim and spaced apart spoke sections in each side flange function to provide multiple carrying handles. A cable holding means is provided to restrain or hold portion(s) of a cable within an outer periphery of the cable reel. In one embodiment, a secondary hub (and third flange) adjacent the central hub is positioned and disposed within a side periphery defined by the annular rim of one of the side flanges enabling stacking together such that annular rims of respective cable reels may be in close or actual contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Applied Optical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Venkata R. Penumatcha
  • Publication number: 20150115089
    Abstract: A cylindrical cartridge used for the storage and protection of all types of barrier fencing. The device is designed to extend the life of barrier fencing, reduce waste and reduce cost. The cartridge has an interior hollow pipe shaft with rollers mounted to the shaft to create a spool. The spool shaft extends through the top of the cartridge and is fitted with a manually operated crank handle. A vertical slotted opening in the side of the cartridge of varying widths dependent on the barrier material being used allows the extraction and retraction of the barrier fencing. The bottom of the cartridge has an opening in the centre equal to that of the interior dimension of the hollow shaft. The bottom opening allows for the mounting of the cartridge to a ground spike or stabilizing plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20150060587
    Abstract: One object is to provide a knob of a fishing reel that can be fabricated easily at low cost and with high strength. In accordance with one aspect, a knob of a fishing reel includes a core rotatably supported via a spindle, and a tubular grip member formed of an elastic material and fitted round the core, wherein the core is provided with a deformation-applying portion for contacting the inner surface of the grip member and causing the outer shape of the grip member to deform and bulge in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: SHO KURIHARA
  • Publication number: 20140374528
    Abstract: A fire hose reel assembly comprising, a base, a front left angled bar, a front right angled bar, a rear left angled bar and a rear right angled bar. A top connecting bar connects the front left angled bar, the front right angled bar, the rear left angled bar and the rear right angled bar. A latch is directly attached to the top connecting bar. The fire hose reel assembly further includes a fire hose take-up rod. The fire hose reel assembly includes a fork assembly and a fork upper rod. The fork upper rod has a coupling attached to an upper end of the fork upper rod. The fork upper rod may be retained in the latch. The fork assembly is capable of retaining an end of a fire hose. A manual crank or a battery-operated or electric drill may be connected to the coupling in the upper end of the fork upper rod to provide power-assist to facilitate rolling-up the fire hose. The fire hose reel assembly in an embodiment may be mounted on wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony Conway
  • Publication number: 20140319264
    Abstract: A fishing reel includes a reel unit, a handle shaft, a handle arm, a handle knob, a nut and an anti-loosening member. The handle shaft includes an anti-loosening engaging portion. The handle arm includes an elongated hole. The handle shaft is inserted in the elongated to be non-rotatably engaged with the handle arm. A position of the shaft in the elongated hole is adjustable. The anti-loosening member is configured on the nut member and is selectively set in a first position and a second position. The anti-loosening member is engaged with the anti-loosening engaging portion in the first position to prevent the nut member from loosening, and is disengaged from the anti-loosening engaging portion in the second position to allow the nut member to rotate in the loosening direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Takeshi IKUTA
  • Patent number: 8826483
    Abstract: A hand operated drain cleaner includes a manually operated rotatable drum and an elongated flexible cable at least partially held in the drum. A portion of the cable extending from the drum has a cable axis, and rotation of the drum rotates the cable portion about the cable axis. A handle is adapted to rotatably support the drum. The handle includes a barrel portion and a handle portion. A feed control device includes a housing having a feed passage axially therethrough for receiving the cable and a trigger for moving the feed control device between a non-actuating position and an actuating position. In the actuating position, a feed control device is pivoted relative to the handle such that the driving mechanism engages the cable thereby inducing axial movement of the cable via rotation of the drum. A locking mechanism is opera operably associated with the feed control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael J. Rutkowski, Paul W. Gress, Jon R. Dunkin
  • Publication number: 20140223798
    Abstract: An anchor for use with a buoyant decoy used in hunting has a hollow anchor housing configured for detachable engagement with the buoyant decoy, the hollow housing having an anchor head portion, a ballasted and ballastible anchor shaft portion and a hook portion unitary connected to the anchor shaft portion. A reel assembly with a spool of an anchor line is positioned in the anchor housing. The spool is rotated by a detachable crank handle to rewind the anchor line into the housing. A spring-operated release plunger is positioned within a bore formed in the head portion. When the plunger is depressed, the anchor line can be extended and/or retrieved. A hook on a free end of the anchor line allows detachable securing of the anchor housing to the keel of the decoy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Carlo Paternostro
  • Patent number: 8763944
    Abstract: A take-up spool may include a first plurality of rollers arranged in a left handed helical pattern, a second plurality of rollers below the first plurality of rollers and arranged in a right handed helical pattern, a third plurality of rollers arranged in an S-shaped pattern, the third plurality of rollers being arranged between the first and second plurality of rollers, a guide configured to move vertically, the guide being arranged at a first side of the first plurality of rollers, and a clamp configured to move vertically, the clamp being arranged at a second side of the first plurality of rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas, LLC
    Inventors: Robert K. Dorosko, Colin F. Kelemen
  • Publication number: 20140110520
    Abstract: A cargo strap retrieval device is provided having a rotatable spool supported by a frame structure that is adapted to be secured within the side rail of a cargo trailer. The frame comprises a first upstanding member for supporting the rotatable spool, a perpendicular shelf member extending from the upstanding member lower edge and below the spool, and a step-down side rail connector member at the end of the shelf member that secures within the open cavity of a trailer side rail to support the entire assembly while in use. The spool comprises a pair of tongs along the first side of the upstanding member for supporting a cargo strap as it winds therearound, while a backside drive member provides a user with a means of input for the spool, whereby a hand crank, ratchet, or electric drill may be utilized to drive the spool as it collects the cargo strap therearound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce Hampson
  • Patent number: 8702026
    Abstract: The present invention includes an expandable hose reel, which may include: a housing defined by at least one or more base members; a spool rotatably disposed within the housing, wherein the spool is adapted to connect to a flexible hose; a winding mechanism to rotate the spool and to coil the flexible hose around the spool; and an expansion mechanism to modify a length of the spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Keter Plastic Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard Douglas Evans, Avraham Maltz
  • Publication number: 20140034771
    Abstract: A tarp deploying apparatus includes a frame assembly that is adapted for being attached to a lifting device, such as a forklift. A roller assembly extends laterally from the frame assembly. A tarp may be loaded onto the roller assembly by rolling the tarp onto a roller body. The tarp may be deployed in a desired position on a load of cargo on a flatbed trailer. The tarp is deployed on the cargo by driving the forklift alongside of the flatbed trailer and allowing the tarp to unroll off the roller body being pulled off the roller body by the weight and friction of the tarp on the load. The roller body may include hooks that help in loading the tarp onto the roller body, and allow the tarp to automatically fall off of the roller body during deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: ROBERTS & DYBDAHL, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Dean Hecker, Mark Anthony Corso, Scott Leroy Messamaker
  • Publication number: 20130269219
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to articles that include a tightening mechanism, such as reel-based lace tightening mechanism, configured to tighten the article by rotation of a knob. The articles can include a concealing portion that is configured to conceal or protect at least a portion of the tightening mechanism, such as the knob. The concealing portion can be configured to prevent unintentional actuation of the tightening mechanism, such as during contact sports. The concealing portion can be configured to hide the tightening mechanism from view to improve the visual appearance of the article. The concealing portion can be collapsible such that a user can press the concealing portion down to expose the knob of the tightening mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Robert Earl Burns, Gary R. Hammerslag, Eric Craig Irwin, Kristopher Carlton Lovett, Michael Joseph Nickel, Mark Stanley Soderberg
  • Patent number: 8468657
    Abstract: A lacing system configured to selectively adjust the size of an opening on an object and allow for the incremental release of the lace within the lacing system. The lacing system can have a reel comprising a housing, a spool supported by the housing, and a knob supported by the housing. The reel can be configured so that cable is gathered in the channel formed in the spool when the spool is rotated in a first direction relative to the housing, and so that cable can be incrementally released from the spool when the spool is rotated in a second direction relative to the housing. In some embodiments, the reel can include a rotation limiter which can be configured to prevent over-tightening of the lacing system and/or to prevent rotation past the substantially fully loosened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Boa Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark S. Soderberg, Michael Joseph Nickel, Sean Cavanagh, James Paul Goodman
  • Publication number: 20130119179
    Abstract: A prosthetic limb lanyard cord retainer spool is provided, which may be mounted onto the side of a prosthetic limb socket to retain slack or excess cord from a lanyard locking system. After the limb has been locked into place, excess cord from the lanyard system may be pressed into a seam formed between the outer wall of the prosthetic limb socket and a radially outer flexible sealing flange of the cord spool to enter a circumferential channel of the cord spool (radially between the outer flexible sealing flange and an inner stem), and may be manually wrapped around the stem of the spool in a circular motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Prosthetic Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin S. Piszkiewicz, Paul Galloway, Tracy Slemker
  • Publication number: 20130099042
    Abstract: A take-up spool may include a first plurality of rollers arranged in a left handed helical pattern, a second plurality of rollers below the first plurality of rollers and arranged in a right handed helical pattern, a third plurality of rollers arranged in an S-shaped pattern, the third plurality of rollers being arranged between the first and second plurality of rollers, a guide configured to move vertically, the guide being arranged at a first side of the first plurality of rollers, and a clamp configured to move vertically, the clamp being arranged at a second side of the first plurality of rollers..
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: GE-HITACHI NUCLEAR ENERGY AMERICAS, LLC
    Inventors: Robert K. Dorosko, Colin F. Kelemen
  • Patent number: 8360352
    Abstract: A reel for the management, transport, and storage of flexible materials such as electrical cords, air hoses, and the like, comprises a hollow cylindrical central hub with a pair of disk-like side plates radially attached to the outer ends of the hub, a slidable hand grip mounted on said reel and a rotatable winding knob for controllable rotation of the reel by an operator. The cord take-up portion of the hub has a provisional retainer shaped to receive a loop formed, preferably, in the middle of the cord's length. Once the loop is hooked over the provisional retainer, an operator reels in both halves of the cord simultaneously by turning with the winding knob. Conversely, holding the reel by the slidable hand grip with one hand and pulling outward on both ends of the cord simultaneously with the free hand, unreels the cord as needed. Once the cord is fully unwound from the hub, the provisional retainer allows it to falls free of the reel for unfettered use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Sidney D. Moore
  • Publication number: 20120325953
    Abstract: The present invention includes a hose reel having side rollers. A hose reel includes: a housing defined by at least one or more base members; a spool rotatably disposed within the housing, wherein the spool is adapted to connect to a flexible hose; a winding mechanism to rotate the spool and to coil the flexible hose around the spool; and one or more rollers associated with said housing, wherein the one or more rollers are able to rotate during coiling of the flexible hose around the spool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Elad Refael Adler, Vadim Prokofiev
  • Publication number: 20120325952
    Abstract: The present invention includes an expandable hose reel, which may include: a housing defined by at least one or more base members; a spool rotatably disposed within the housing, wherein the spool is adapted to connect to a flexible hose; a winding mechanism to rotate the spool and to coil the flexible hose around the spool; and an expansion mechanism to modify a length of the spool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Richard Douglas Evans, Avraham Maltz
  • Patent number: 8302335
    Abstract: A manual banner roll-up mechanism has a first tube, a second tube, a foldable material, a securing base, a washer, a linking member, a rope, a securing cylinder, a first plug and two mounting supports. The first tube is rolled up with a foldable material. Another end of the foldable material is connected to a second tube. One end of the first tube is jacketed by a securing base, and the washer, the triggering member and the rope are locked onto the securing cylinder by a bolt. Another end of the first tube is jacketed by the first plug that has a base, a positioning member, a spring, and a cover. A first positioning member of the securing base and a second positioning member of the first plug enable the first tube to be hung between the two mounting supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Chao-Pang Wang
  • Publication number: 20120256033
    Abstract: A frame assembly for a hose reel is provided. The frame assembly includes closed extrusion members. Closed extrusion members are structured to hide visually displeasing elements such as, but not limited to, support ribs. The closed extrusion members face downwards and backwards so that the visually pleasing outer side of the closed extrusion members are typically visible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: AMES TRUE TEMPER, INC.
    Inventor: Greg Blaszczak
  • Publication number: 20120241545
    Abstract: The tiedown strap ratchet with take-up reel includes a ratchet mechanism for tightening a cargo or tiedown strap and a reel for securing the free end of the strap. The reel includes at least one take-up crank extending radially from at least one end of the take-up reel shaft, the circular path of the distal end of the take-up crank extending into the arc subtended by the ratchet handle during its operation. When the ratchet handle is placed in its stowed position, the handle interferes with travel of the take-up crank, thus preventing the take-up crank from rotating to allow the free end of the strap to unwind from the reel. The take-up reel may have various take-up crank configurations, e.g., a single crank, cranks extending from the opposite ends of the reel shaft, one or two double-ended cranks, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: JAMES BORNTRAGER
  • Publication number: 20120228419
    Abstract: A closure device includes a knob. A ratchet member is mounted on a bottom of the knob. An engaging member is movably received in a cavity of the ratchet member. A spool is mounted on a bottom of the engaging member. A stopper is mounted around the spool. A base is proved for receiving the stopper, the spool, the engaging member, and the ratchet member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Chin-Chu CHEN
  • Patent number: 8210461
    Abstract: A device for securing excess tie down strap on a base formed by two approximately parallel spaced apart arms held together centrally with at least one crosspin. Spring loaded clevis pins provided at a distal end of each arm serve to open channels formed between the arms so that strap can be wound onto or off of the base by gripping the clevis pins as handles and rotating the device. Each clevis pin is movable retained in one of the arms and is rotatable therein by means of a flanged sleeve bearing located within a bushing provided in an opening in the arm. When the clevis pin is in its closed position, an inwardly extending free end of the clevis pin inserts through an aligned opening in the opposite arm and is retained therein by an outwardly biased detent provided on the free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Greg L. Strope
  • Patent number: 8196852
    Abstract: A crank assembly for a hose reel is provided. The crank includes an axle rod and a triangular frame assembly. The axle rod extends perpendicular to the triangular frame assembly. The axle rod extends from the medial portion of on of the three tubular members. In this configuration, and when the crank is in use, force is distributed to opposing sides of the axle rod. Further, the triangular shape provides a support for a flat plate upon which an indicia may be displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Ames True Temper, Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Blaszczak
  • Publication number: 20120138167
    Abstract: The present invention relates to air hose and/or electrical cord reels suitable for use in a consumer environment. The present invention provides a robust reel structure which permits easy user replacement of cords/air hoses, but protects users from the rotating elements which carry the air supply and/or electrical current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Jay ZUPPARDO
  • Publication number: 20110233317
    Abstract: An auxiliary member for a ratchet buckle includes a U-shaped frame, a shank; two plastic bushes, a levering set, a holder, and a bolt set, wherein central sections of two sides of the frame connect with the shank axially, one end of the shank couples with the levering set, and open ends of the two sides of the frame connect with a body of the buckle by using the bolt set, such that the belt can be pulled while in use and rolled while in no use easily, and used to fix merchandises securely during transporting process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Yeh-Chien Chou
  • Publication number: 20110198177
    Abstract: Electric cord reel with a reel, a crank and handle, a reel support structure, a base structure, a guide aperture and a cord and plug retaining tube the reel is rotatably attached to the reel support structure The handle fixedly attached to the pivot point of the reel wall. The support structure is fixedly attached to the base structure. The guide aperture fixedly attached to the base structure so that it is in alignment with the spool portion of the reel. The cord and plug retaining tube is removably attached to left and right apertures in the walls of the reel. A standard extension cord portion and plug can be removably retained within the cord and plug retaining tube. A preferred embodiment includes the base structure having a plurality of downwardly facing legs that help keep the structure from sliding when a user pulls on the electric cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: John Hall
  • Patent number: 7959101
    Abstract: The present invention relates to hose reel carts for handling and storage of flexible hoses, such as garden or air hoses. The hose reel cart is primarily constructed of plastic components having a centrally rotatable spool for winding of the flexible hose, a frame for supporting the spool and a multi-position crank arm assembly allowing the consumer to place the crank handle in a lowered position or a raised position. The crank remotely drives the spool, for winding the hose, through a series of gears located within the crank arm assembly. The device may further include a reciprocating guide assembly that operates during rotation of the spool to rewind the hose into a compact configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Suncast Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Whitehead, Michael Thuma, Michael Uffner, Matthew McKimmy, Michael R. Vogler
  • Publication number: 20110089283
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a base, a restricting piece, a coiling piece, and a cable. The base defines a containing space. The restricting piece is secured in the containing space. The restricting piece includes a pivot and a cable outlet. The coiling piece includes a coiling post. A side of the coiling post defines a pivot hole which receives the pivot of the restricting piece inserted therein to pivotally mount the coiling piece in the containing space. The cable is wrapped on the coiling post, and a part of the cable is inserted through the cable cutout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHOON-TYNG LAU