With Ground Traversing Means Patents (Class 269/17)
  • Patent number: 8474793
    Abstract: The invention provides a lifting system that decreases the amount of energy used while lifting luggage from the ground in a variety of locations. According to the invention, a lifting system operates on a regenerative braking mechanism that provides for recharging the battery of the lifting system using energy created from rotational force generated by the lowering of an arm of the lifting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Automotive Resource, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Penenburgh
  • Patent number: 8444125
    Abstract: An attaching apparatus for attaching a load port apparatus to an attaching face of a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus includes a bogie truck body to be attached to a lower end portion of the load port apparatus. A pair of downwardly projecting positioning protrusions having a circular transverse sectional shape are also attached to the lower end portion of the load port apparatus. A support plate is secured to a lower end portion of the attaching face in such a manner as to project toward the load port apparatus. A pair of positioning recesses are formed on an upper face of the support plate and each has a circular hollow shape, in a plan view, such that said plurality of positioning protrusions may be individually fitted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Sinfonia Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuo Natsume
  • Patent number: 8439337
    Abstract: A positioning system is provided for mounting a wing of an aircraft to a fuselage of the aircraft. The positioning system includes, but is not limited to a programmable mounting unit that can perform a final adjustment and alignment of the wing with respect to the fuselage without user interaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventor: Horst Kott
  • Patent number: 8434737
    Abstract: A crane with a freely positionable oil pump handle: the present invention relates to an easily operated crane with a freely positionable oil pump handle which significantly enlarges the working area of the operators and considerably broadens the application area of the crane, thereby widening the market prospects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Haoliang Zhou
  • Patent number: 8424858
    Abstract: A flexible fixture system for a CNC machine is coupled to a base fixture. The flexible fixture includes quick connects that connect with the base fixture in order to allow hydraulic fluid, air, and water to be communicated from the base fixture to the flexible fixture system. The flexible fixture system includes features operable to hold a workpiece within the CNC machine. The flexible fixture system is modular and may be swapped out for a different flexible fixture in order to allow other operations to be performed on the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Kharati Pawa, Brian Holmes
  • Patent number: 8413958
    Abstract: A lifter with linkage mechanism includes a frame being movably on floor, a lifting mechanism disposed on the upper portion of said frame and a loading plate jointed with the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism includes a lifting arm with a lifting driving box. Two four-bar linkage mechanisms are jointed with a first end of the lifting arm, while a second end of the lifting arm is rotatablely jointed with the frame. The frame includes a horizontal base seat and two columns with vertical guiding groove respectively symmetrically disposed on left side and right side of the horizontal base seat. A crossbeam is coupled between two columns. The four-bar linkage mechanism is disposed between two columns, and the four-bar linkage mechanism is respectively jointed with the loading plate and the lifting arm. In the present invention, the loading plate will be well guided and move freely. The structure of the cantalever style loading plate is simple; it is suitably applied in the double-deck parking garage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Jianhua Zhu
  • Patent number: 8403310
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for holding a flat object. The apparatus includes a post, a supporting mechanism movably connected to the post, a clamping mechanism pivotally connected to the post, and a linking element for linking the supporting mechanism and the clamping mechanism together. Thus, the flat object is clamped by the clamping mechanism clamps when the flat object is supported on the supporting mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: King Shen Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kun-Jie Wang, Rong-Jin Liang, David Tsai
  • Publication number: 20130062823
    Abstract: The workbench includes one or more trestle units (102) having pairs of legs (104) joined to each end of a cross-piece (106) by a hinge unit (108) which allows the legs to fold flat against each other and against the cross-piece of the trestle for storage. The hinge has a stop which allows the legs to be positioned away from each other and away from the crosspiece of the trestle to form a stable trestle unit. The workbench further includes a plurality of beams (500), wherein said beams are adapted to be connected to at least one trestle so as to form a supporting framework for a work piece. A folding brace (110) between pairs of legs further stabilises the trestle. The beams and trestles have holes (126) in their ends, and the beams and the trestles have regularly spaced holes (128) in them. Pegs can be inserted into and through the holes, and they have locking parts on them, allowing them to lock onto the trestle or beam. Pegs can have two latches for attachment to different beams or trestles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Lockyer Boyd
  • Patent number: 8393603
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to fixtures and methods for assembling automotive instrument panels. Some embodiments include a means for locating an instrument panel in a lateral direction and in a selected rotational direction. Some embodiments also include a means for locking the panel in specific desired rotational position. Furthermore, some embodiments may accommodate a wide variety of panel designs having variable lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shalette Farmer
  • Patent number: 8382082
    Abstract: A method for horizontal assembly of a high-voltage feed-through bushing includes vertically-assembling a field shaper assembly of a high-voltage feed-through bushing on a field shaper fixture. The field shaper assembly is then rotated within the field shaper fixture such that the field shaper assembly is oriented on a horizontal axis. Next, an insulator tube fixture supporting an insulator tube assembly is positioned adjacent to the field shaper fixture. The insulator tube assembly, being oriented on the same horizontal axis as the field shaper assembly, is then affixed to field shaper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Daniel Gath Meeks, Wendy Marie Massey, William George Cheyne
  • Patent number: 8366084
    Abstract: A table which supports work pieces includes a base with a first part and a second part hinged together so that the second part may be swung up and away from the standing surface for storage and be swung down to engage the standing surface. A support column is secured to the base and coupled to a brace member which is foldable between a first state when the second part is in contact with the standing surface and a second state when the second part is not in contact with the standing surface. The table includes a work platform that is coupled to the central support column and rotatable between a horizontal orientation parallel to the standing surface and a non-horizontal orientation. The work platform is configured to have work stations which receive and mount work pieces so that the work pieces are secured to the work platform in both the horizontal and non-horizontal orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Robert B. Halladay
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8342491
    Abstract: A transport system for transporting at least one blade or spar for a wind turbine. The blade or spar has a root end and a tip end. The transport system comprises a root frame structure for holding the root end and a fixation device adapted to fixate and support the blade or spar between the root end and tip end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventors: Henning Jørgensen, Jens Jessen Hansen
  • Patent number: 8328173
    Abstract: A support stand system for supporting parts of automobiles for repair work or painting purposes featuring a main base and one or more additional components including a fender stand for supporting fenders, a bumper stand for supporting bumpers, a paint tray, a door stand for supporting doors and hoods, and a sawhorse. The components are interchangeable. Securing devices such as clamp brackets can be used with any of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventors: Steven L. DesForge, Linda DesForge
  • Patent number: 8312608
    Abstract: An installation and removal system for a toilet unit is provided. The system includes a base having floor engaging wheels coupled thereto. At least one of the floor engaging wheels is adjustable to maintain the base substantially level relative to the floor. An actuator is disposed on the base. A pair of spaced apart support elements are coupled to the actuator and adapted to engage an underside of the toilet unit. An angle of the support elements relative the base is adjustable. The system includes a retaining system coupled to the spaced apart support elements and adapted to couple with the toilet unit. The retaining system militate against an undesired movement of the toilet unit relative the support elements. A kit and method for using the system are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: John Head
  • Patent number: 8297604
    Abstract: A plate pin assembly for use with a fixture that holds multiple plate pin assemblies for use in chassis-body marriage during the manufacturing of automobiles. The plate pin assembly has a lower end that fits into a bushing hole on the fixture to attach the plate pin assembly to the fixture, an upper end that supports or otherwise interacts with the vehicle chassis or body, and a quick-disconnect mechanism to enable fast changeover of the plate pin assemblies on the fixture when switching from one vehicle application to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignees: Fori Automation, Inc., Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventors: Paul George Doan, Brad Holoday, Michael D. Kelly, Gordon W. Smith, James J. Phlypo
  • Patent number: 8291563
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for positioning one or more components relative to a work surface are provided. The apparatus can include a frame having a first support member extending therefrom. At least one extendable member can be disposed on the first support member. The extendable member can be adapted to move in a linear direction. At least one magnet can be disposed on the frame. The magnet can include at least one contact side that can be switchable between a magnetized state and a non-magnetized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: Will Harris, Gerald L. Dasbach
  • Patent number: 8262050
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for removing an aircraft engine. A method includes mounting a frame assembly in supported connection with a support member of an associated aircraft. The frame assembly includes a frame member, a movable assembly mounted in movable relationship to the frame member, and a plurality of engine winches mounted in supported connection with the movable member. Each engine winch has an associated engine cable operably connected thereto. The movable assembly is movable between forward and rearward positions. The method further includes supporting the weight of at least a portion of an aircraft engine with the engine cables and moving the movable member relative to the frame member to displace the portion of the aircraft engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Mark Linz
  • Patent number: 8245856
    Abstract: The remote control car support apparatus supports a remote control (RC) car. The height of the apparatus can be adjusted for a total height of up to 16 inches. The length of the apparatus can be adjusted to accommodate various sizes of RC cars, from about 1/10th scale to about ?th scale, with an overall length adjustable up to about 27 inches. The apparatus features a total width of about 12 inches so that an RC car is not likely to tumble over when held. The apparatus provides for a full 360 degrees of rotation of a car, with the rotation locked in position as chosen. With these features, all facets of an RC car are accessible, allowing a hobbyist to work on the car as chosen. The plurality of mount holes in the adjustably positioned mounts allow for a car to be held to the apparatus as chosen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventors: Clint G. Pappin, Louise Pappin
  • Publication number: 20120205848
    Abstract: A portable workbench includes a pair of first support structures, a pair of second support structures, a first top member coupled to the first support structures, a second top member and a clamping mechanism. Each second support structure is pivotally coupled to an associated one of the first support structures. The clamping mechanism is coupled to the second support structures and is configured to selectively translate the second top member relative to the second support structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Mark Lawrence, Michael G. Sirois, Robert D. Watters, Jason F. Busschaert, Tong Yanbin, Han Tao, Mark E. Robson
  • Patent number: 8226071
    Abstract: A cart and detachable hangers system for transporting copper coils that may include: 1) a cart with a substantially rectangular structure that includes at least two opposing side rails and at least two opposing end rails; 2) a plurality of pockets disposed along a top surface of each of the two opposing side rails; and 3) a plurality of hangers, each of the hangers including two projections that are sized such that each may detachably engage one of the pockets. The hanger and the cart are sized such that the distance between the projections correspond approximately to the distance between the pocket on one upper side rail and the opposing pocket on the other upper side rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brock M. Lape, Karl R. Anderson, III, Yannick Lampron, Alain E. Limoges
  • Publication number: 20120181735
    Abstract: A workpiece elevating support device which can be utilized by being installed in a carriage-type conveying apparatus for conveying an automobile body while changing the height thereof in each section in an automobile assembly line. The workpiece elevating support device includes at least two center-folding double link mechanisms arranged in parallel on a base, each of which is composed of a lower parallel link, an intermediate link member, an upper parallel link, and an upper link member. The upper link member is consecutively provided with a workpiece support. There is juxtaposed a lock means to hold the center-folding double link mechanisms in an expanding-rising posture, which is taken when the upper link members are vertically raised to a predetermined height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Masahiro Ooe
  • Publication number: 20120160068
    Abstract: An apparatus for cutting fruit. The apparatus includes a frame, at least first and second cutting stations, at least one receptacle in which the fruit is received that includes a plurality of extensions protruding outwardly from an outer circumference thereof, and a conveyor that conveys the receptacle from the first cutting station to the second cutting station. The frame includes a kicker. In use, the object is cut along its vertical axis at the first station, the receptacle is then rotated about its vertical axis as a result of one of the extensions contacting the kicker, and the object is cut at the second station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey Cahoon
  • Patent number: 8162302
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automated dolly assembly that includes a body including a frame and a top surface, a sync arm and a support arm connected to the body, and at least one switch disposed on the body to control movement of the support arm. The sync arm is capable of movement between a first position and a second position, and when the sync arm is in the first position, the sync arm is free from contact with a portion of a workpart carrier traveling along a rail of an overhead conveyor. When the sync arm is in the second position, the sync arm contacts a portion of the workpart carrier. The support arm is also capable of movement between a first position and a second position, and when the support arm is in the first position, the support arm is free from contact with a portion of the workpart carrier. When the support arm is in the second position, the support arm contacts a portion of the workpart carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy R. Turner, Daniel K. Claunch, Travis S. Cotten, Bradley Jay Sallee, Cory D. Bronger
  • Patent number: 8152149
    Abstract: A portable workbench includes top members, a support structure, a frame, wheels and a toe plate. The top members lie in a common plane and define a working surface with opposing side portions that define clamping surfaces. The support structure supports the top members and permits selectively traversing at least one of the pair of top members toward another to permit a workpiece to be clamped therebetween. The frame includes collapsible legs. The wheels and toe plate are coupled to the frame adjacent to each other. The workbench is positionable in a raised position, a collapsed position and a hand truck position. The toe plate is movable from a retracted position to an extended position to permit the portable workbench to be employed as a hand truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Lawrence, Michael G. Sirois, Robert D. Watters, Jason F. Busschaert, Tong Yanbin, Han Tao, Mark E. Robson
  • Publication number: 20120049429
    Abstract: A field sawbuck having a tree gripper forming a top side fulcrum for holding an end of a felled tree and a tree engaging arm for pivoting the felled tree about the fulcrum to bring the felled tree to an elevated condition whereby the limbs can be removed and the tree can be conviently cut into desired length without concern for pinching or binding the saw or having the saw blade accidentally contact a support soil for the felled tree as well a method for delivering a felled tree to a field sawbuck that can cantileverly support the felled tree during the process of removing limbs from the tree or during the process of field cutting of the felled tree into firewood lengths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne Lindberg
  • Publication number: 20110316211
    Abstract: A table which supports work pieces includes a base with a first part and a second part hinged together so that the second part may be swung up and away from the standing surface for storage and be swung down to engage the standing surface. A support column is secured to the base and coupled to a brace member which is foldable between a first state when the second part is in contact with the standing surface and a second state when the second part is not in contact with the standing surface. The table includes a work platform that is coupled to the central support column and rotatable between a horizontal orientation parallel to the standing surface and a non-horizontal orientation. The work platform is configured to have work stations which receive and mount work pieces so that the work pieces are secured to the work platform in both the horizontal and non-horizontal orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Robert B. Halladay
  • Patent number: 8066267
    Abstract: A painter rack for supporting one door in a horizontal position during prepping or painting, or at least one door also in a horizontal position during drying. This painter rack comprises two support structures: a left one and a right one; each support structure comprises two vertical members traversed horizontally by a number of openings; each support structure also comprises a number of bars used to support at least one door, each bar is comprised of at least two segments, the first said segment traversing slidably and horizontally an opening, and the second segment is bent with respect the first segment. Each support structure is held in place by a base structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Jake B. Schaerer
  • Publication number: 20110232805
    Abstract: An integrated work surface and tool storage system. There is shown a plurality of panels, forming a box-like shape, having a support structure, supporting at least the edges of the box-like shape formed by the plurality of panels; and a plurality of hinges coupled to the support structure, that enable the plurality of panels to have a storable position state that fold the panels into a box-like shape, and a deployable panel state where the panels form a flat work surface located above the support structure. There is shown a motorized system, coupled to the support structure, to be activated to cause the tool box to move. This design would include at least two wheels located on either side of the tool box, wherein at least one wheel is coupled to the motorized system. In addition, there is shown a first and second flexible continuous track coupled around each of the two wheels located on either side of the tool box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Richard T. DeSpain
  • Patent number: 8020841
    Abstract: A fastener (12) for a car-body straightening device (10), by means of which fastener (12) a vehicle is fastened to a straightening table (11) of the car-body straightening device (10) for the time of straightening work. The fastener (12) comprises an arm part (21), which provides additional support when during the car-body straightening work a force is applied to the area to be straightened, and a fastening device (24) for fastening the fastener (12) to the car to be straightened. The arm part (21) is movable in the fastener (12) and the fastener (12) can be placed moveably on a beam (13) of the car-body straightening table (11), and locked on said beam in a desired position. the fastener (12) comprises an upper frame part (16) and a lower frame part (17) of a fastener frame (15) and, between them, guides (18) to which an intermediate part (19) is connected floatingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Autorobot Finland Oy
    Inventor: Olavi Venäläinen
  • Patent number: 7988137
    Abstract: An adjustable stand for receiving an object, e.g., an automobile panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Innovative Tools & Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan T. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7971898
    Abstract: A multiple link, self-jacking mobile work cart includes the main body defining upper and lower portions supported by the plurality of rotating wheels. A multiple link, self-jacking mechanism is provided in connection with two laterally deployable work tables which can serve as infeed/outfeed tables for a power tool or the like supported by the main body of the cart. The multiple link mechanism includes an actuator arm, a linkage arm, a control arm and moveable support legs all pivotally connected to one another such that when the work tables are deployed, substantial weight placed on the tables is transferred to the support legs, rather than the wheels which support the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Robert W. Wise
  • Patent number: 7950635
    Abstract: An adjustable holding apparatus comprises a main frame section with at least two pneumatic wheels disposed at a bottom bifurcated portion therein, and another bifurcated portion having a pair of distally disposed stabilizing feet. A maneuvering portion is attached at right angles to an upper portion of the frame to aid in maneuvering the adjustable holding apparatus into position. A horizontal support arm and a vertical support arm distally attached from the handle portion to support a vertical adjustable arm and a horizontal adjustable arm. The support arms have adjustable sliding attachment ends that are positioned as needed. The horizontal and vertical support arms are moveably supported by a tilt adjustment plate that allows the arms to be positioned from 0 to 90 degrees. Clamping knobs provide adjustability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Proehl
  • Patent number: 7950626
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a collapsible hoist that can be easily stored and set up. The hoist is designed to provide sufficient lifting support to lift large objects such as an engine out of an engine compartment. Further, the invention provides the ability to transport and operate a hoist in a garage or in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Herb Martin
  • Patent number: 7896324
    Abstract: The transfer car 1 includes: a pair of guide posts 3, 4 erected on diagonal corner portions of a base 2 formed nearly in a rectangular shape when viewed in a plan; a pair of lifting and lowering support bodies 5, 6 supported by these guide posts 3, 4 and lifted and lowered; a lateral bridging member 7 laterally bridging the pair of lifting and lowering support bodies 5, 6; a turn table 8 mounted on a lower side in a center in a longitudinal direction of the lateral bridging member 7 and having a turning part 8B turned around a vertical axis 8C with respect to a fixed portion 8A; and a hanger 9 having a top end portion coupled to the turning part 8B of the turn table 8 and hanging a vehicle body A placed on receiving parts 9B, 9B mounted on a bottom end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Nakanishi Metal Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Okazaki
  • Patent number: 7878753
    Abstract: A rotatable apparatus for repairing and restoring vehicle body shells including a pair of vertically positioned hoops placed in a parallel relation mounted to the body shell for rotation about a horizontal axis. A plurality of connecting members attached in a spoke-like manner to support the body shell. A pair of generally stationary roller-bases supports the hoop assembly and facilitates rotation. The roller-bases include foot-operated brakes to prevent rotation of the assembly. A jacking-arm device facilitates the transfer of the assembly from the roller-bases to the removably connected upright rolling supports for traversing an area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Douglas James Kielian, Stephanie Sue Kielian
  • Patent number: 7870834
    Abstract: A painters stand comprising a pair of extensible supports for rotatably securing a workpiece therebetween. Each support is comprised of a stanchion having a collar mounted thereon with a plurality of divergent legs extending therefrom with the stanchion having an intermediate workpiece support approximate the top end and a receiver for a workpiece fastener that will be fastened to a workpiece end whereby the workpiece can be supported between the stanchions. Once mounted in the workpiece receiver a plurality of radially positioned apertures are provided within the workpiece fastener so that one can be selectively co-aligned with a workpiece receiver aperture for insertion of a pin to secure the workpiece while a desired operation is performed, such as sanding and or painting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventor: Dwight D Cundiff
  • Patent number: 7823273
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing workpieces containing plastics material by welding, stamping, cutting and/or bonding is described. The apparatus includes a loading and unloading station for loading and unloading the workpieces (35), a processing station with a free space for processing the workpieces (35) and at least one interchangeable module (15) which can be inserted and fixed in the free space and which comprises at least one workpiece receptacle (34) and at least one processing tool (37) which are both adapted to a selected processing task. In accordance with the invention the interchangeable module (15) is supported on running wheels (17) and can be inserted in the free space therewith, and the relative position between the receptacle (34) and the processing tool (37) required in the processing is determined by the interchangeable module (15) alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Mschinenfabrik Spaichingen GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Braun
  • Patent number: 7810799
    Abstract: A moveable, collapsible engine test stand having adjustable engine supports and additional accessory supports that are all collapsible adjacent the base of the stand for convenient, compact storage. The stand may include accessories such as a radiator, fuel tank, instrument panel, battery, cooling lines, fuel lines, wiring harnesses, engine dynamometer and the like to permit prolonged operation and monitoring of an engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: PRW Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William P. McGloghlon
  • Patent number: 7798479
    Abstract: A method for horizontal assembly of a high-voltage feed-through bushing includes vertically-assembling a field shaper assembly of a high-voltage feed-through bushing on a field shaper fixture. The field shaper assembly is then rotated within the field shaper fixture such that the field shaper assembly is oriented on a horizontal axis. Next, an insulator tube fixture supporting an insulator tube assembly is positioned adjacent to the field shaper fixture. The insulator tube assembly, being oriented on the same horizontal axis as the field shaper assembly, is then affixed to field shaper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Daniel Gath Meeks, Wendy Marie Massey, William George Cheyne
  • Patent number: 7775755
    Abstract: A limit stop support device for fitting variable-width plasterboards upon appliances for lifting and handling such boards comprises a one-piece receiving support which fulfils various adjustable-position sliding functions along a holder arm of the board holder or panel holder. The support receives a board or panel limit stop which is retractable in opposition to elastic return element(s) located on the receiving support, and a unit which fulfills a dual function of locking the receiving support in position on the arm and limiting the travel of the limit stop in opposition to the elastic return element(s) in an operating phase in order to place boards and panels on a ceiling and/or wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Roger Mondelin SAS
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Bailly, Denis Narelli, Christophe Valette
  • Patent number: 7770292
    Abstract: Transportation of larger diameter gas turbine engines can be problematic. In such circumstances it is known to separate the fan assembly (30) from the engine core (1) and other parts to facilitate transportation. Separation of the fan assembly (30) and engine core (1) can require a gantry which adds to inconvenience and costs. By utilizing a platform (2, 44) with suspender members (43) in the form of boot straps (43) which extend down from an existing pylon (31) it is possible to remove an engine core (1) through a carriage dolly (3, 45) which moves along a rail (21 within the platform (2, 44) generally laterally until it is possible to lower the engine upon the platform to ground level. The platform (2, 44) and carriage dolly (3, 45) can then act as a stand for transportation of the engine core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce PLC
    Inventor: Richard G. Stretton
  • Publication number: 20100181711
    Abstract: A cutting support including a first section and a second section. The first section has a top side with at least two recesses extending into the first section from the top side. A first one of the recesses has a first shape. A second one of the recesses has a different second shape. The first shape comprises a generally semi-circular section. The second shape comprises at least one generally right-angle corner. The second section is connected to the first section for connecting the cutting support to another member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Rodd R. Ruland
  • Publication number: 20100154194
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for positioning one or more components relative to a work surface are provided. The apparatus can include a frame having a first support member extending therefrom. At least one extendable member can be disposed on the first support member. The extendable member can be adapted to move in a linear direction. At least one magnet can be disposed on the frame. The magnet can include at least one contact side that can be switchable between a magnetized state and a non-magnetized state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Will Harris, Gerald L. Dasbach
  • Patent number: 7647681
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for positioning one or more components relative to a work surface are provided. The apparatus can include a frame having a first support member extending therefrom. At least one extendable member can be disposed on the first support member. The extendable member can be adapted to move in a linear direction. At least one magnet can be disposed on the frame. The magnet can include at least one contact side that can be switchable between a magnetized state and a non-magnetized state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventors: Will Harris, Gerald L. Dasbach
  • Patent number: 7584973
    Abstract: A system for the storage and convenient presentation of tools or other items is disclosed. Specifically, the invention disclosed is a multilevel tool lift which consists of a base assembly, a substantially vertical tube assembly and shelf assemblies attached to the substantially vertical tube assembly. The substantially vertical tube assembly can be extended or contracted, thereby raising and lowering the shelf assemblies attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Steve Brager
  • Publication number: 20090096144
    Abstract: A transport carriage for the installation and removal of doors, allows the door to be raised or lowered and aligned before removal from the device. The device is capable of installing standard and pre-hung doors at both the finish and sub-floor stage of construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Mark White
  • Patent number: 7448606
    Abstract: A large automotive panel paint rack has a wheel-mounted base with an adjustable upright post and at least one platform having adjustable support members and hook members. It also has heat and paint-resistant protective rubber sleeves to keep critical adjustment threads free from over-spray. The large panel paint rack permits stationary support of a large part, especially a large automotive panel part for preparation work, repair and painting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Innovative Tools & Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan Thomas Johnson
  • Patent number: 7380778
    Abstract: A portable workbench includes top members, a support structure, a frame, wheels and a toe plate. The top members lie in a common plane and define a working surface with opposing side portions that define clamping surfaces. The support structure supports the top members and permits selectively traversing at least one of the pair of top members toward another to permit a workpiece to be clamped therebetween. The frame includes collapsible legs. The wheels and toe plate are coupled to the frame adjacent to each other. The workbench is positionable in a raised position, a collapsed position and a hand truck position. The toe plate is movable from a retracted position to an extended position to permit the portable workbench to be employed as a hand truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Lawrence, Michael G. Sirois, Robert D. Watters, Jason F. Busschaert, Tong Yanbin, Han Tao, Mark E. Robson
  • Publication number: 20080126889
    Abstract: A mobile test unit for testing a powertrain component such as a transmission is used in a test cell. A test unit includes a movable, generally horizontal base plate, and a frame spaced from the base plate. A headstock is secured to the frame for supporting the transmission. An adjustable support, which is arranged on each of four corners of the frame in the example embodiment, interconnects the frame to the base plate. The adjustable supports are movable in a vertical direction, in one example, between multiple positions to achieve a desired orientation relative to the base plate. In particular, the orientation of the frame is adjusted to obtain a desired rotational and/or tilt angle that corresponds to a rotational and/or tilt angle of the transmission when installed into a vehicle. The transmission can be installed onto the test unit, and the test unit can be moved into and out of a test cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Ken Barnes, Peter Posch, Wolfgang Kopecky, Walter Orth