Screw Patents (Class 254/98)
  • Patent number: 8377140
    Abstract: An expandable spinal implant device for supporting vertebral bodies can include first and second body members and first and second expansion mechanisms. The body members can each have a first end positionable toward one of the vertebral bodies and can each define a hollow interior. The expansion mechanisms can be spaced apart from each other and can include a first drive shaft and a second drive shaft, respectively. The first and second drive shafts can each have a gear member fixedly coupled thereto. Each drive shaft can be threadably engaged at a first side to the first body member and at a second side to the second body member. The expansion mechanisms can be operable to effect axial displacement of the first body member relative to the second body member by rotationally driving the gear members of the first and second drive shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: EBI, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony C. DeFalco, Rawley Stanhope
  • Patent number: 8371556
    Abstract: A multi-function deck tool is powered by a portable electric drill to remove old deck boards and nails and install new boards. Lifting forks remove deck boards. A built-in nail puller removes nails from the deck board supporting beam. An aligning arm attachment straightens and aligns new or loose boards with nailed-in boards and holds them in place, freeing the hands of the installer to nail in the new board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel C Price
  • Patent number: 8360397
    Abstract: In a ball screw device, a ball screw linear-movement member is screwed with a ball screw rotary member and configured to linearly move in accordance with a relative rotation with the ball screw rotary member. A housing is holding the ball screw rotary member. A motor is disposed in a motor chamber of the housing, and configured to rotate the ball screw rotary member with a rotor coupled to the ball screw rotary member. A stopper is configured to collide with a brake when an amount of a relative linear movement between the ball screw rotary member and the ball screw linear-movement member becomes no less than a prescribed amount. The brake is configured to decelerate rotation of the rotor by the collision of the stopper with respect to the brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventor: Hajime Watanabe
  • Patent number: 8356797
    Abstract: An adjustable support apparatus for a recreational vehicle permits rapid height adjustment with a spring mechanism of a handle-nut assembly on a threaded rod. A portion of the threaded rod is inserted into the hollow portion of a jackscrew assembly. A tab on the handle-nut assembly includes an over-sized hole intersecting a threaded hole for engaging the threaded rod. An approximate desired height of the support apparatus is accomplished by pushing a tab inward and sliding the handle-nut assembly to a desired position on the threaded rod. A fine adjustment to the desired height, if required, is made by turning the handle nut assembly so that it travels with respect to the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventors: Darryl L. Searer, Craig A. Searer
  • Patent number: 8348238
    Abstract: A support unit for moving an object may include an elongated member, at least one suction device coupled to the elongated member for attaching to an object, a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the elongated member and an attached object, and a rotating member for moving the support unit and the attached object from a departure location to a destination location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gary W. Anderson, Kevin L. Salt
  • Publication number: 20120286221
    Abstract: A hydraulic drive system readily adapted for either manual actuation or motor-driven actuation due to the unique design of the hydraulic drive and its coupling to either a hand crank or to a motorized drive to provide hydraulic pressure to lift cylinders that can be attached to table legs for vertical adjustment. The hydraulic drive includes a screw jack having an end extending from one end of a housing and splined or otherwise keyed. A manual crank arm or motorized drive assembly includes a coupling which mates with the end of the screw jack to provide a drive force for the hydraulic cylinder drive. The motorized drive assembly includes a pair of toothed hubs and an intermediate flexible sleeve allowing alignment of the motorized drive to the drive assembly as well as providing sound dampening, a cushioned coupling, and facilitates overcurrent detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Suspa GmbH
    Inventor: James E. Doyle
  • Patent number: 8292040
    Abstract: A double screw elevator consists of two screws whose helical threads extend in opposite helical directions, and each of the screws is provided with a nut, so that a suspension unit and a carrying unit on the nuts can be driven to move close to or away from each other, thus achieving the function of lifting or lowering the elevator car. The double screw elevator is simply structured, easy to assemble, and the length of a single screw of the elevator is shortened, making it easier to manufacture the screw. Furthermore, the screw driving elevator reduces the occurrence of accident whiling improving the rate of utilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Hiwin Technologies Corp.
    Inventor: Wu-Teng Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20120193590
    Abstract: A lifting bracket assembly is disclosed. The lifting bracket assembly includes a motor, a pair of gear heads mechanically coupled to the motor such that each of the gear heads is coupled to a jack screw connector, a first and second jack screw, wherein each of the jack screws is coupled to one of the jack screw connectors and one of the gear heads, a first lifting bracket rotatably coupled to the first jack screw, a second lifting bracket rotatably coupled to the second jack screw, wherein the first and second jacks screws are different, a first guide tube fixedly coupled at a first end to the first lifting bracket and coupled to a first rail beam at a second end, and a second guide tube fixedly coupled at a first end to the second lifting bracket and coupled to a second rail beam at a second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: William A. Horwath, Thomas J. Fairbairn, Edwin D. Slota
  • Patent number: 8231106
    Abstract: A synchronous moving device includes: a device body; a movable portion which is provided in the device body; a feed screw shaft which is supported on the device body; a nut member which is thread-engaged with the feed screw shaft; a coupler which couples the movable portion and the nut member; and a cable binder which supports and guides a cable wired into the movable portion, wherein: the coupler includes a first member fixed to the movable portion, a second member fixed to the nut member, and an intermediate member interposed between the first and second members for absorbing deflecting motion of the feed screw shaft; and an end portion of the cable binder on a side of wiring of the cable into the movable portion is connected to the second member through a connection member and moved in synchronization with the movable portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Mitutoyo Corporation
    Inventors: Yutaka Nishitsuji, Yoshiharu Kimura
  • Patent number: 8230566
    Abstract: a sleeve puller for pulling out a sleeve inserted in a panel, the sleeve having an inner wall that defines a hole, the sleeve puller including: a sleeve-engaging rod having a distal end and integrally including a sleeve-engaging portion, a screw rod continuous with the sleeve-engaging portion, and a wrenching portion continuous with the screw rod and opposite from the sleeve-engaging portion across the screw rod, the sleeve-engaging portion having a screw thread therein and having a tapered shape having a diameter smaller toward the distal end of the sleeve-engaging rod; a nut support including a slidable surface, a nut supporting surface opposite from the slidable surface, and a through hole extending throughout the nut support from the slidable surface to the nut supporting surface so as to allow the screw rod of the sleeve-engaging rod to be inserted therethrough; and a nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Kuritakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideo Oguri
  • Publication number: 20120145976
    Abstract: A machine casing section lift system includes a first attachment member configured to attach to a machine casing section, the first attachment member including a first jacking mechanism connection portion. The system also includes a second attachment member configured to attach to a lower casing section that, in operation, is positioned below the machine casing section, the second attachment member including a second jacking mechanism connection portion. The system also includes a jacking mechanism to raise the machine casing section and having a collar configured to couple with the first jacking mechanism connection portion and a base configured to rest in the second jacking mechanism connection portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Andrew Thomas Hynous, John William Herbold
  • Publication number: 20120132872
    Abstract: A jacking mechanism for industrial equipment includes an insert securable in a casing hole of a first casing half of an item of industrial equipment and a jacking bolt insertable in the insert. The jacking bolt includes a jacking bolt thread meshable with an insert thread and a bearing tip secured to the jacking bolt. Advancing the jacking bolt through the insert brings the bearing tip into contact with a second casing half thus moving the first casing half relative to the second casing half. A jacking system for industrial equipment includes a plurality of jacking mechanisms configured to evenly change a gap between the first casing half and the second casing half.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: John William Herbold, Randall Stephen Corn
  • Patent number: 8162289
    Abstract: An apparatus which is positionable between a structure to be lifted and an underlying support surface for lifting the structure utilizes a bottom plate and a cap between which a spacer member, such as a piece of tubing, is positionable and a threaded rod which is threadably received by an internally-threaded opening in the cap. By rotating the threaded rod within the cap, the threaded rod moves lengthwise relative to the cap. Therefore, by positioning the apparatus between a structure to be lifted and an underlying support surface and then rotating the threaded rod within the cap, the bottom plate and the threaded rod act between the structure to be lifted and the underlying support surface to lift the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Howard L. McCaleb
  • Patent number: 8156694
    Abstract: A method and device for supporting a structure above a fixed surface. The device can include a support pedestal whose height is adjustable through a range of heights without a substantial gap in the obtainable heights. In one embodiment, the support pedestal can include a base member, a support member and a coupling member operatively connecting the base member and the support member. The coupling member can include first and second cylindrical walls, whereby an outer wall of the coupling member bears directly on an outer wall of the base member. Locking members can be utilized to operatively attach the coupling member to at least one of the base member or the support member. The locking members can function to increase the structural stability of support pedestal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: United Construction Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen J. Knight, III, William E. Kugler
  • Patent number: 8132787
    Abstract: Conical jack stands that are used to hold up a motor vehicle (or other object) after it has been raised (e.g., by jacks). Rather than having legs like conventional jack stands, they have the shape of a hollow cone, with a circular bottom edge. The circular bottom edge gives them a larger bottom surface area than the bottom ends of the legs of conventional jack stands, so that they will be less likely to sink into the ground or asphalt. There is a hole with internal screw threads in the top of each cone, into which a large bolt-like contacting member is screwed. The contacting members can be rotated to adjust the height of the jack stands. Their hollow conical shape makes it easy to stack the jack stands for storage. Four jack stands are stored in a square box, with one contacting member in each corner of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Douglas Audet
  • Publication number: 20110253954
    Abstract: A trailer hitch jack is disclosed. The trailer hitch jack may include a jack housing tube, an extender tube, a drop leg tube, and a hitch engagement tube projecting orthogonally from the jack housing tube. The jack housing tube, extender tube, and drop leg tube may be coupled to one another and configured to telescope upon operation of a hand crank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: WILLIAM OLEN FORTNER
  • Patent number: 8001733
    Abstract: A post adjustable in length as required. The post can be adjusted at any time during and after construction. The post can be used as an extension of a column which requires adjustment in length. The post can be used as a jack. The post is capable of withstanding compression, tension, and dynamic loading. The post can be used to provide support to beams and girders in a house frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: Min Chen
  • Publication number: 20110165980
    Abstract: A belt tensioning device (10) prevents excess belt tension when installing a belt (16) between a driver axis (28) and a spindle axis (22). A clutch (48) supported on a fixed structure (14, 46) includes an engagement member (52, 64) and a rod (32). Rotating the engagement member (52, 64) in a first direction moves the rod (32) and the driver axis (28) in a direction away from the spindle axis (22), until further rotation causes the engagement member (52, 64) to disengage preventing further movement of the driver axis (28) in the direction away, and subsequent rotational movement of the engagement member (52, 64) in a second rotational direction moves the driver axis (28) toward the spindle axis (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: SETCO SALES COMPANY
    Inventors: Stephen C. Hoeting, Brian P. Schloemer
  • Publication number: 20110140322
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to a compressive rod assembly for applying force to a refractory vessel positioned within an outer metal casing. The assembly includes a rigid elongated rod having first and second opposed ends, a threaded bolt adjacent to the first opposed end of the elongated rod, and a compressive structure positioned operationally between the elongated rod and the bolt. Compressive force applied by the bolt to the elongated rod passes through the compressive structure which allows limited longitudinal movements of the elongated rod to be accommodated by the compressive structure without requiring corresponding longitudinal movements of the bolt. Exemplary embodiments also relate to rod structure forming a component of the assembly, and to a metal containment structure having a vessel supported and compressed by at least one such assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Eric W. Reeves, James E. Boorman, Jason D. Hymas, Robert Bruce Wagstaff, Randy Womack
  • Publication number: 20110138549
    Abstract: A structural system comprised of prefabricated deck units spaced along longitudinal load-carrying members, which produce longitudinal axial compression in deck units by tensioning the longitudinal load-carrying members without the use of standard post-tensioning details. During construction, prefabricated deck units are erected on top of and supported by the longitudinal load-carrying members via leveling devices, which also permit relative motion between the longitudinal load-carrying members and the prefabricated deck units. Jacking apparatuses are used to introduce deck compression by jacking against the longitudinal load-carrying members. This system can be used for new structures and for deck replacement of existing structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Yidong He
  • Patent number: 7900890
    Abstract: In a worm-rack type transmission device (1), a curved side portion (6) is provided on rack teeth (2a) of a linear rack (2) in a manner to form a part of an ellipsoidal surface (E) and twisted by a changing rate (?) of a torsional manner a toothed streak (5) of a worm wheel (3). The worm wheel (3) brings the toothed streak (5) into engagement with the curved side portion (6) in a line-to-line contact, enabling to a self-locking property and strengthening a transmission power to insure a high transmission efficiency with a least friction loss so as effectuate a linear drive for an extended distance travel with a high precision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Kamoseiko Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenji Imase
  • Publication number: 20100258770
    Abstract: A synchronous moving device includes: a device body; a movable portion which is provided in the device body; a feed screw shaft which is supported on the device body; a nut member which is thread-engaged with the feed screw shaft; a coupler which couples the movable portion and the nut member; and a cable binder which supports and guides a cable wired into the movable portion, wherein: the coupler includes a first member fixed to the movable portion, a second member fixed to the nut member, and an intermediate member interposed between the first and second members for absorbing deflecting motion of the feed screw shaft; and an end portion of the cable binder on a side of wiring of the cable into the movable portion is connected to the second member through a connection member and moved in synchronization with the movable portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: MITUTOYO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yutaka NISHITSUJI, Yoshiharu Kimura
  • Publication number: 20100252789
    Abstract: In a ball screw device, a ball screw linear-movement member is screwed with a ball screw rotary member and configured to linearly move in accordance with a relative rotation with the ball screw rotary member. A housing is holding the ball screw rotary member. A motor is disposed in a motor chamber of the housing, and configured to rotate the ball screw rotary member with a rotor coupled to the ball screw rotary member. A stopper is configured to collide with a brake when an amount of a relative linear movement between the ball screw rotary member and the ball screw linear-movement member becomes no less than a prescribed amount. The brake is configured to decelerate rotation of the rotor by the collision of the stopper with respect to the brake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Hajime Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20100196128
    Abstract: A support assembly provides for a method of mobilization that does not require removal of shelving and restocking of items on gondolas and warehouse pallet racking, even if the gondola or pallet racking is too wide for prior art mobilization methods. The support assembly comprises a pair of tubular members capable of engaging fork-like extensions of a hand truck or the like. The hand truck may have caster wheels for mobilization and may have a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the support assembly by the fork-like extensions, when tongues extending from the tubular members are aligned and matingly engaged at a middle support and outer supports of the gondola. By using a plurality of such lift assemblies engaged along the length of the gondola or gondola run, a row of gondolas may be lifted and mobilized without removing shelving and restocking items on the shelves, even if the gondola is wide and the items stocked on the shelves of the gondola add substantial weight to the gondola.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: Mobex of North Florida, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Arensdorf, Troy Thompson, William Thompson
  • Publication number: 20100123108
    Abstract: A device for transmitting a load from an object to a load-bearing element is provided. The device includes an attachment mechanism for attaching to a load-bearing element, such as a vertical stanchion. A loading mechanism includes a pressure block and a mechanism interconnecting the pressure block and the attachment mechanism. The loading mechanism can apply a preload to an object and transmit a force from the object to the load-bearing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Woodrow W. Holley, Andrew Paddock, Jerome P. Fanucci, Michael McAleenan, Kirk E. Survilas
  • Patent number: 7712389
    Abstract: A lifting device having parallel double screw rods includes a motor, a first transmission and a second transmission. The first transmission includes a screw rod driven by the motor and a telescopic tube assembly threadedly connected to the screw rod and linearly movable relative to the screw rod. The distal end of the telescopic tube assembly is fixedly connected on a connecting piece. The second transmission is provided at one side of the first transmission and parallel thereto. Further, the second transmission includes a sleeve driven by the motor to rotate, a telescopic tube assembly accommodated within the sleeve and axially movable relative to the sleeve, and a screw rod threadedly connected to the telescopic tube assembly and linearly movable relative to the telescopic tube assembly. The distal end of the telescopic tube assembly is connected to the connecting piece. With the above arrangement, each screw rod is interchangeable and the cost can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: T-Motion Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Jung Wang
  • Publication number: 20100051885
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus and associated lifting method provide for safe and quick lifting of equipment, such as for pallet removal. The lifting apparatus comprises a lifting rail that incorporates a spindle assembly at each end. Each spindle assembly moves on a threaded rod, vertically retained in a lift stand. Rotating the spindle assembly causes it to move up or down on the threaded rod, depending on the direction of rotation. In one embodiment, one of the spindle assemblies includes a drive input that interfaces with an external driver that provides motive force for rotating the spindle assembly. A chain, for example, interconnects the driven spindle assembly with the other spindle assembly, such that both spindle assemblies rotate together, and the lifting rail therefore remains level as it moves up and down. A pair of lifting apparatuses may be placed along opposite sides of a given machine and operated together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Charles Davis
  • Publication number: 20090313799
    Abstract: a sleeve puller for pulling out a sleeve inserted in a panel, the sleeve having an inner wall that defines a hole, the sleeve puller including: a sleeve-engaging rod having a distal end and integrally including a sleeve-engaging portion, a screw rod continuous with the sleeve-engaging portion, and a wrenching portion continuous with the screw rod and opposite from the sleeve-engaging portion across the screw rod, the sleeve-engaging portion having a screw thread therein and having a tapered shape having a diameter smaller toward the distal end of the sleeve-engaging rod; a nut support including a slidable surface, a nut supporting surface opposite from the slidable surface, and a through hole extending throughout the nut support from the slidable surface to the nut supporting surface so as to allow the screw rod of the sleeve-engaging rod to be inserted therethrough; and a nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: KURITAKOKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hideo OGURI
  • Publication number: 20090267035
    Abstract: A selectively engagable nut made up of plural nut portions which are able to move apart for disengagement with a screw and to move together to reengage. The nut portions are driven by pins extending into slots on the nut portions; the pins mounted in a rotating collar adjacent to the nut. The collar's pins, in a first rotational position holds the nut portions engaged with the screw. In an alternative rotational position, the pins drive and hold the nut portions apart to disengage with the nut portions. When the nut portions are in mutual contact, fingers are positioned on the nut portions in positions preventing the nut portions from moving apart so as to disengage the nut from the screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Graham P. Wood, Kennith C. Hall
  • Patent number: 7578212
    Abstract: A force amplifier has a guide track, a non-locking screw threadedly engaging the track to spirally move in response to an axial input force applied to the proximal end of the non-locking screw. The force amplifier includes a compliant component coupled to the non-locking screw by one end and to a self-locking screw by the other end. The compliant component is configured to transmit a torque generated by the non-locking screw to the self-locking screw, which is actuated to move spirally along the track while generating an axial output force greater than the input force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventors: Gennady Kleyman, Annaniy Berenshteyn
  • Publication number: 20090200824
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a support system having a slideout room, a trailer frame assembly and a jack screw assembly to increase, decrease or level the vertical placement of the slideout room. The frame assembly has extendable support members connected to a plurality of jack screw assemblies with telescopic tubes to extend, decrease or level the vertical placement of the slideout room. The telescopic tubes have a mounting plate on one end that attaches to the slideout room and a mounting bracket on the other end that attaches to the extendable support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: NORCO INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Publication number: 20090188177
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and lowering buildings includes first and second beam support frames. Each support frame includes a horizontal base adapted to rest on the ground, a vertical beam guide extending upward from the base, a beam support member engaged in the vertical beam guide such that the beam support member moves substantially vertically up and down in the beam guide, and a jack mechanism operative to move the beam support member up and down. A beam having a length selected for use to raise a selected building has a first end supported by a beam support member of the first support frame, and a second end supported by a beam support member of the second support frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: MONTY WENSEL, GEORGE WILLIAM LABELLE
  • Publication number: 20090166596
    Abstract: A tool is used to elevate and hold a garbage disposer against a sink fixture during removal and/or installation of a garbage disposer. The tool includes a flat base including a notch opening through a corner of a rectilinear base to allow an electric cord to pass around the tool. A flat load supporting platform includes a similar notch. A screw jack force applying mechanism allows the platform to be raised relative to the base. The tool works equally well with the base down or with the platform down so the user doesn't have to turn the tool over for it to work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Valerie C. Noe, Raymond G. Mendez, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090158879
    Abstract: A scalable and adaptable, six-degree-of-freedom, kinematic positioning system is described. The system can position objects supported on top of, or suspended from, jacks comprising constrained joints. The system is compatible with extreme low temperature or high vacuum environments. When constant adjustment is not required a removable motor unit is available.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Robert J. Viola
  • Publication number: 20090152314
    Abstract: A cargo carrier having a U-shaped hitch sleeve on its bottom and legs with wheels on its sides. A hitch shaft is inserted into a trailer hitch on a vehicle and the U-shaped hitch sleeve fits over the hitch shaft. The legs have an internal screw type jack mechanism to raise and lower the cargo carrier to place the U-shaped hitch sleeve above and over the hitch shaft, and to raise the legs so that the vehicle can transport the cargo carrier on the hitch shaft without having to remove the legs. The wheels allow the cargo carrier to be portable when not connected to the vehicle. They also allow the U-shaped hitch sleeve to be aligned above the hitch shaft to permit lowering the U-shaped hitch sleeve down over the hitch shaft for the insertion of bolts through the U-shaped hitch sleeve and hitch shaft, thereby fastening the cargo carrier to the hitch shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Lee Myrex
  • Patent number: 7516579
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a holder for fixedly attaching a panel to a substructure. The holder comprises a connection member capable of being fixedly connected non-rotatably to the substructure, a panel holder fixedly attached to the panel and a spacer element threadedly attaching the connection member to the panel holder. The spacer element can be axially adjusted and fixed relative to the connection member and the panel holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Ralf Kreyenborg, Rolf Rand, Thomas Vogler
  • Patent number: 7472889
    Abstract: A vehicle lift system includes a vehicle with a power supply port. A housing has a bottom wall, a top wall and a peripheral wall. A sleeve extends upwardly from the housing. A piston is mounted in the sleeve. A drive assembly is mechanically coupled to the piston. The drive assembly is actuated in a first direction to raise an upper end of the piston with respect to the housing. The drive assembly is actuated in a second direction to lower the upper end of the piston with respect to the housing. The drive assembly is removably coupled to the power supply port to supply electrical power to the drive assembly. A plurality of engaging members is provided. One of the engaging members is removably attached to the upper end of the piston and engages the vehicle which the piston is raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Prather
  • Publication number: 20080308777
    Abstract: An apparatus which is positionable between a structure to be lifted and an underlying support surface for lifting the structure utilizes a bottom plate and a cap between which a spacer member, such as a piece of tubing, is positionable and a threaded rod which is threadably received by an internally-threaded opening in the cap. By rotating the threaded rod within the cap, the threaded rod moves lengthwise relative to the cap. Therefore, by positioning the apparatus between a structure to be lifted and an underlying support surface and then rotating the threaded rod within the cap, the bottom plate and the threaded rod act between the structure to be lifted and the underlying support surface to lift the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Howard L. McCaleb
  • Patent number: 7458562
    Abstract: An extendible and retractable actuator comprises a motor, two screws and an extendible and retractable sleeve assembly. The motor cooperates with the screws to drive the extendible and retractable sleeve assembly to extend and retract simultaneously, so as to reduce the extending and retracting time and to simplify the structure of the extendible and retractable actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Hiwin Mikrosystem Corp.
    Inventors: Tung-Hsin Chen, Bing-Hong Yang
  • Publication number: 20080237556
    Abstract: An electronic device with an elevating mechanism includes a body and the elevating mechanism connected with the body. The elevating mechanism includes a support base, an elevating element, and a fastening element. The elevating element capable of moving between a first position and a second position relative to the support base is connected with both the support base and the body. The elevating element includes a first wedging component. The fastening element disposed around the second position relative to the support base is rotatable between a third position and a fourth position. The fastening element includes a second wedging component. When the fastening element is rotated to the fourth position, the second wedging component is wedged on the first wedging component for fastening the elevating element at the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Chung-Hsien Chin, Cho-Keng Wu
  • Publication number: 20080203367
    Abstract: In an elevating device for raising and lowering a heavy member by rotating a rotation axis extending in a direction crossing a vertical direction, the rotation axis has one end portion to which the heavy member is connected. The rotation axis includes a bendable portion adapted to transmit a rotational force. A leading end portion of the free end portion is vertically suspended from the bendable portion of the rotation axis regardless of a stop position of the rotation axis. A rotation applied by the heavy member to the rotation axis is suppressed by the suspended leading end portion. With such an elevating device, unexpected rotation of the rotation axis is positively suppressed in a cost-effective manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventor: Kengo Ashizawa
  • Publication number: 20080197329
    Abstract: A safety nut (220) received slidingly in a seat (205) through which a threaded bar (203) passes, is coupled with front inter-locking (209B, 220A) with the lifting nut (209); release occurs when wear of the thread of the lifting nut (209) exceeds a safety limit; an axial stop formed of a bearing (228) rests on the safety nut (220) to support the load mechanically interrupting movement. A warning switch (250) is activated by the safety nut before said mechanical shut-down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Natale Brechelente
  • Patent number: 7410201
    Abstract: An improved lead screw actuator for use in applications including power vehicle windows is provided that significantly reduces the amount of machining that must be performed on the lead screw to enable secure attachment of a gear or pulley. The lead screw has a plurality of threads on its outer annular surface and a first and second axially spaced circumferential groove. A gear or pulley disposed about the lead screw has a female thread formed into an inner annular surface that is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of threads of the lead screw between the first and second grooves. A pair of rings are disposed within the first and second grooves in order to restrict axial movement of the gear or pulley on the lead screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Daryl Wilson, Scott L. Strong
  • Patent number: 7401392
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment provides one or more improvements which makes it possible for a single person to easily install a garbage disposal under a sink. Embodiments include a base with wheels, a hydraulic jack attached to the base, an extensible column extended by the hydraulic jack, and a platform attached to the extensible column. The garbage disposer is placed on the platform and the installation tool is moved under the sink, the jack is used to raise and support the platform and the garbage disposal in position for attachment to the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Innoplumb LLP
    Inventor: Kent D. Ramsey
  • Patent number: 7383922
    Abstract: A load stopping system for mechanically stopping a load in a relatively slow and controlled manner using rotational and frictional forces. The system includes a glide rod, a guide collar that moves longitudinally over the glide rod, two vertically mounted friction rods mounted on opposite sides of the glide rod, a friction collar that moves longitudinally along each friction rod, and a support platform coupled to each friction collar and to the guide collar. The glide rod includes a spiral fluted vane along its entire length upon which the guide collar rides when a force is placed on the support platform. The friction rod and collars use friction to control the movement of the support platform along the direction of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventors: William H. Richey, John Bolding
  • Patent number: 7344117
    Abstract: An adjustable lift support apparatus includes a base, a sleeve attached onto the base, at least one meshing device, a shaft, and a support attached at the shaft. At least one groove is formed on an inner surface of the sleeve along a first axial direction. Each meshing device corresponds to one of the at least one groove and includes a flexible protrusion. The shaft is inserted into the sleeve. At least one rack is provided on an outer surface of the shaft along a second axial direction, such that the flexible protrusion of the meshing device is meshed between two neighboring teeth of the at least one rack. The support is lifted or lowered by an external force to make each of the at least one rack move with respect to the flexible protrusion of the corresponding meshing device, so as to adjust the height of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Benq Corporation
    Inventor: Wei-Shin She
  • Publication number: 20070278465
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hoisting device (1), in particular for a vehicle, including a substantially vertical column forming a frame and lifting means movable along said column under the action of the control, by adequate driving means, to cause a threaded rod (2) to rotate and a nut (3) integral with a carriage (4) bearing the load (20) to be lifted to move along the latter. It is characterized in that this nut (3) is a catch nut, which comprises a first bearing nut (5) on which said carriage (4) rests, and a second safety nut (6) coaxial to the preceding one and placed below same, designed capable of receiving and bearing the load formed by said carriage (4) and its load (20) and by said first bearing nut (5) in the event of failure of the latter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: SEFAC SOCIETE ANONYME
    Inventor: Eric LETELLIER
  • Patent number: 7207548
    Abstract: An automobile jack stand having four sides that substantially form a pyramid. Extending from the pyramid is a telecopying support. The telescoping support is attached to a curved horizontal support arm which is the primary point for support. Extending outward from two sides are small support arms which are equipped with light sockets. The light sockets rotate from a horizontal position to a vertical position. The lights are connected to a battery located in the base of the jack and the battery is connected to a electrical cord capable of connecting to an electrical out. The electrical cord functions to recharge the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Richard L. Howe
  • Patent number: 7143998
    Abstract: A vibration absorber jack including a tripod type base, a jack, an absorber positioning mechanism, and a vibration absorber holder. The jack is attached to the base, the absorber positioning mechanism disposed on top of the jack; and, the vibration absorber holder attached to the absorber positioning mechanism such that the vibration absorber holder can be positioned and moved by the absorber positioning mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secrectary of the Navy
    Inventor: Corby Vincent Hall
  • Patent number: 7140086
    Abstract: A support assembly useful in supporting a plumbing fixture in the course of effecting connections thereto includes a base provided with a vertical tube segment supporting a nut assembly threadably engaged to a rod partly received in the segment with the upper rod end supporting an adapter conformed to the supported fixture. An offset bar fixed to the rod exterior engages a lateral recess on the segment to fix the rod in rotation as the nut assembly is turned. The assembly may include rods of differing lengths and adapters of various forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth Heaton