Toggle Type Patents (Class 269/228)
  • Patent number: 4847208
    Abstract: A device and method for automating immunohistochemical staining of biological material on glass slides is presented. The slides are placed on a base with the tissue section facing upwards. A "chamber" consisting of a rectangular plastic box with a hinged overhead door is clamped directly over the tissue section. A rubber gasket seals the chamber--slide interface. Reagents are dropped on to the tissue section by opening the hinged overhead plastic door. When the door is closed, the chamber is sufficiently sealed so as to prevent evaporation. Washing of the tissue section is accomplished by the addition and aspiration of buffer through ports in the chamber. The ports are connected via flexible tubing to a manifold. Because the wash steps are peformed in tandem and do not require manual manipulation of slides, a significant time savings is realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: Steven A. Bogen
  • Patent number: 4828240
    Abstract: A workpiece is clamped to the table of a machine tool by a toggle clamp or edge clamp supported for rotation by the head portion of a stud threaded into a hole within a member secured to the table. The member may comprise a column or a column extender each having a frame with precisionly attached plates having X-Y grid patterns of alternating threaded holes and precision bores. A grid or base plate with an X-Y pattern of holes and bores may also receive an angle plate which also has an X-Y grid pattern of threaded holes and precision bores in addition to counterbores and precision angle positioning bores which receive pins for precisely locating the angle plate at a selected predetermined angle relative to the grid or base plate. The workpiece may also be secured to T-slot plates which are retained in precision locations on a base plate to define precision T-slots for receiving T-nuts. An adjustable radius locator system provides for precisely locating on the base plate a workpiece having two precision holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: TE-CO.
    Inventors: Francis S. Longenecker, Kevin J. Moeder, Jeffrey L. Wolff
  • Patent number: 4819922
    Abstract: A clamping system is disclosed for use with an assembly jig. It features a clamp having one jaw consisting of a pin and the other jaw including a pad which when closed will be spaced from but parallel to the pin. The pin is to be inserted into a circular locating device which is joined to the frame of the assembly jig. Due to the circular nature of the locator and use of the pin, the workpiece can be grasped in an over-center locking position in almost any orientation. The clamping device together with the assembly jig provides standardized pieces that can be used for limited production items that need to be held upon a jig relationship when locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Inventor: Charles R. Boike
  • Patent number: 4728137
    Abstract: A compound toggle robotic gripper mechanism employs a pair of spaced, opposed gripping jaws, each pivotally mounted to a base and interconnected to an actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder-piston assembly, by a compound toggle mechanism. The compound toggle mechanism preferably includes a first toggle interconnecting the actuator and second and third toggles. The second and third toggles interconnect the actuator through the first toggle to each of the spaced, opposed gripping jaws respectively so that extension of the actuator rod urges the first, second and third toggles from their released positions simultaneously into a locking position as the gripping jaws are moved into gripping engagement of a workpiece or tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1988
    Assignee: American Engineering and Trade, Inc.
    Inventors: Nihad Hamed, Hazem Hamed
  • Patent number: 4725049
    Abstract: A clamp comprising a plurality of pivotally related members and a plurality of jaw elements, each secured at the yoke portion thereof to a pivotally related member. From the free ends of each of the leg portions of the jaw element immediately below the uppermost jaw element are flat extension members, each extension member having two flat portions. The first portions extend upwardly from the jaw element immediately below the uppermost jaw element to a location above the uppermost jaw element. The second portion is essentially perpendicular to the first portion and located above the uppermost jaw element and aligned with the uppermost jaw element for clamping engagement with a work piece. This clamp is particularly useful for metal constructions which have a lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Inventor: Jose Cantarinhas
  • Patent number: 4723767
    Abstract: Rotary powered linear actuated clamp having hollow electric motor drive shaft coupled to threaded nut axially retained by reaction roller thrust bearings driving a linear threaded rod having integral toggle linkage actuator guided by anti-friction rollers in linear lateral reaction tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1988
    Assignee: De-Sta-Co Division, Dover Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander W. McPherson, Alan Harkrader
  • Patent number: 4716811
    Abstract: Gripping apparatus for restraining the gun barrel on an armored vehicle comprises a pair of gripping jaws pivotally supported within a housing and connected by a first pair of toggle links to a movable carriage within the housing such that the jaws are opened and closed upon movement of the carriage, a pair of locking members slidably carried on the carriage and adapted to enter apertures in the sides of the housing to lock the carriage at a predetermined location at which the jaws are closed and the toggle links of the first pair are in substantially a straight line relationship, and a second pair of toggle links connected to the locking member and to an actuator rod so as to enable the toggle links of the second pair to assume an over-center position upon the locking members being received in the apertures for positively locking the carriage in the predetermined location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1988
    Assignee: Harsco Corporation
    Inventor: Bruce S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4711437
    Abstract: A workpiece is clamped to the table of a machine tool by a toggle clamp or edge clamp supported for rotation by the head portion of a stud threaded into a hole within a member secured to the table. The member may comprise a column or a column extender each having a frame with precisionly attached plates having X-Y grid patterns of alternating threaded holes and precision bores. A grid or base plate with an X-Y pattern of holes and bores may also receive an angle plate which also has an X-Y grid pattern of threaded holes and precision bores in addition to counterbores and precision angle positioning bores which receive pins for precisely locating the angle plate at a selected predetermined angle relative to the grid or base plate. The workpiece may also be secured to T-slot plates which are retained in precision locations on a base plate to define precision T-slots for receiving T-nuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Assignee: TE-Co.
    Inventors: Francis S. Longenecker, Kevin J. Moeder, Jeffrey L. Wolff
  • Patent number: 4708357
    Abstract: An adaptor handle for use on wheeled vehicles having two spaced apart handles for application of propulsion forces and steering is characterized by (i) an arm extending in use between the spaced apart handles of the wheeled vehicle (ii) a clamp adjacent each handle end to enable the with arm to be coupled onto the spaced apart handles, and (iii) a single hand grip extending substantially from the center of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignees: Gerard Berkowitz, Jeffrey Stewart
    Inventor: Mavis Soderbaum
  • Patent number: 4695045
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for holding a cathode-ray tube in a fixed position during processing utilizes mounting lugs attached to the tube. The apparatus includes a platform having a plurality of legs positioned to support, respectively, the ends of the mounting lugs. Each of the legs has a recess therein aligned with an aperture in the respective lug end. Each lug is secured to the respective leg by a clamp, pivotally attached to each leg, which projects through the aperture into the respective recess when pivoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: RCA Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Chase, Kenneth A. Long
  • Patent number: 4679782
    Abstract: A mechanical clamp for releaseably clamping a workpiece against a supporting surface. The clamp engages workpieces of differing thickness without adjustment and applies substantially uniform clamping force on the workpieces despite differences in thickness of the workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: Aladdin Engineering & Mfg
    Inventors: Edward R. Horn, Norbert J. Kot, II
  • Patent number: 4673174
    Abstract: An angle clamping tool is provided having a handle including a lockable clamping mechanism operably connected to two jaw arms. Each jaw arm includes an end portion and a medial portion. Secured to the end portion of each jaw arm is a clamping jaw comprising a pair of two elongate clamp members. The clamp members are adjustable to form a selected angular relationship with respect to each other, depending on the types of materials being secured together and the uses for such materials. Once a selected angle is obtained, means are provided for locking the clamp members in such angle during use. The jaw arms in the invention are designed so that, when the handle portion is gripped, the clamping jaws move inwardly toward each other so as to meet and engage work pieces therebetween. The jaw arms are further designed so that when the clamping jaws meet, the medial portions of the jaw arms are sufficiently spaced from each other to permit passage of the clamped work pieces therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: William D. Tabbert
  • Patent number: 4671500
    Abstract: A symmetrical clamping device for producing bonded uniform panels from narrow strips of wood as well as laminated boards glued together. Includes two relatively long guide plates provided with appropriate linkage mechanism capable of exerting pressure to the entire surface being clamped while applying force to the ends in a direction that is perpendicular to that surface when actuated manually by way of appropriate jack screws disposed at each end of the guide plates or automatically by using power cylinders in combination with linkage and an end bolt incorporated therein, to insure participation of bondable material in the process of clamping and conformation to the surfaces of guide plates which may have a straight flat surface or an irregular shape so as to produce desired final product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Inventor: William J. Mark
  • Patent number: 4664364
    Abstract: A proximity switch assembly for signalling the location of a movable member at either of opposite end limits of movement relative to a stationary frame includes a compact elongate housing adapted to be mounted on the frame to extend along the path of movement of a power driven member, such as a piston rod, which shifts the movable member between its end limits. A proximity switch is fixedly mounted in the housing and a switch actuating member is mounted for sliding movement over a relatively short distance sufficient to move an actuating tab into and out of actuating proximity to the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Assignee: Ozz Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert K. Lymburner
  • Patent number: 4653557
    Abstract: A cross slide for receiving and locationally holding an elongate workpiece, such as a picture frame member, is supported upon a carriage which is reciprocally movable along an axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the workpiece. The cross slide is laterally movable to bring the face surface of the workpiece against an adjustable stop carried by the carriage. In response to forward movement of the carriage, the workpiece is intercepted by a rotating cutting tool which cuts an elongate, longitudinally extending slot into the workpiece from the rear surface thereof at a predetermined distance from the face surface regardless of the thickness of the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Inventor: Gerard L. Merrill
  • Patent number: 4648585
    Abstract: A vise structure has a control handle cooperating with a two-part guide rod means, including respective inner and outer rods mounted telescopically relative to each other. The handle is rotatably supported on the frame and has a limited longitudinal movement thereon. In one longitudinal position, the handle is coupled only to the inner rod for rotation in unison; and the inner rod is linked to a pair of pivotably-mounted vise jaws arranged to move towards and away from each other transversely of the vise structure. In a second position of the handle, both the inner and outer rods are rotated for movement of the pivotably-mounted vise jaws and, respectively, for longitudinal movement of a transversely-arranged elongated vise jaw from one end of the structure to its other end. In a third position of the handle, only the outer end is rotated for movement of only the elongated vise jaw. The vise structure is adapted for a work bench and is arranged to clamp various irregularly-shaped work pieces therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1987
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Patent number: 4648624
    Abstract: The tubular part (1) passes through a middle support piece (25) which is arranged between two clamping flanges (17a, 17b). A tie rod (21) passes through the flanges (17) and bears against the external surfaces of these flanges by means of a stop (29) and a clamping device on the one hand, and a nut (31), on the other hand. The clamping device consists of a bistable toggle-joint system comprising two levers (40,41) located in between the stop (29) and a bearing part (34). The stop (29), the levers (40,41) and the bearing part (34) have complementary hinging surfaces which are freely engaged with each other for assembly of the clamping device. With the device according to the invention it is possible to fix a steering column which can be continuously adjusted by pivoting and/or sliding. It is also possible to absorb the torques which may be transmitted to the steering column when the anti-theft device of the vehicle is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1987
    Assignee: Cycles Peugeot
    Inventors: Frederic Mouhot, Jean-Pierre Barnabe, Andre Hoblingre, Michel Clerc
  • Patent number: 4635911
    Abstract: A motorized over center clamp for clamping parts or work pieces utilizes a sequence controller to drive an electric motor and rotate a worm wheel mounted on a worm wheel shaft. A crank rod assembly is rotationally mounted in an off center position on the worm wheel and has curved closed end track portions that ride on the worm wheel shaft. The crank rod assembly is connected to a piston that moves a clamp rod under spring pressure. When the motor has rotated its shaft to the clamped position of the clamp, rotation of the motor shaft is stopped and the clamp is held in position by the spring forcing a mechanical over center condition of the crank rod assembly relative to the worm wheel shaft. The spring length is sensed to determine energy stored in the spring and detect lack of work pieces, work pieces out of position or work pieces that are oversized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1987
    Inventor: Rodger T. Lovrenich
  • Patent number: 4576367
    Abstract: A mechanical clamp for releaseably clamping a workpiece against a supporting surface. The clamp includes means for releaseably locking the clamping member in a clamping position without use of an overcenter movement of the clamp toggle links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Assignee: Aladdin Engineering & Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Edward R. Horn, Norbert J. Kot, II
  • Patent number: 4575061
    Abstract: A tool for the alignment of plastic pipes to be joined by fusion, particularly pipes which have a memory of being curved, comprises a base carrying a fixed clamp at or near one end thereof, such clamp being circular and having a center point, the base having a longitudinal slot therein aligned with the center point, such slot being provided to receive a pair of movable clamps of the same general design as the fixed clamp but which are positionable along the slot with their center points co-linear with the center point of the fixed clamp, the movable and fixed clamps having a gripping diameter such that they snugly engage the pipes to be fused when such pipes are in the clamps and the clamps are in their closed positions; but the movable clamps being longitudinally adjustable, as indicated, to produce alignment and contiguity of the ends of two plastic pipes to be joined by fusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Inventor: Monte A. Dille
  • Patent number: 4556207
    Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a plastic fitting against a plastic pipe and for holding them together with a predetermined clamping force includes a carriage and guide rods for guiding the carriage in vertical motion above a fixed pipe support. A frame is fixed with respect to the pipe support, and first and second toggle links are pivoted to the carriage, to the frame and to each other in such a way that the links can achieve an aligned position in which the carriage is in its lowermost location. Mechanical interference is provided to prevent the toggle links from going significantly past the dead center position represented by the alignment. A receptacle is resiliently supported below the carriage for holding the plastic fitting, and a lever is provided for rotating one of the toggle links. The connection of the toggle links to the frame is vertically adjustable with respect to the frame, in order to adjust the degree of downward force placed on the plastic fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1985
    Assignee: Cliffside Pipelayers
    Inventors: Clifford F. Thompson, Lawrence F. Thompson
  • Patent number: 4553460
    Abstract: The work-holding fixture (1) for metal power saws is characterized by two gripping jaws (3, 4) arranged on the side of the work rest (6) facing away from the saw blade (5) bilaterally of the cutting plane (7--7), these gripping jaws being adjustable perpendicularly to the feeding direction (a) of the workpiece (2) by an arrangement of hydraulic clamping cylinders (8, 9), and also characterized by two work-gripping supports (11, 12) movably arranged on the machine frame (10) on the side of the work rest (6) facing the saw blade (5) bilaterally of the saw blade (5), with a toggle lever control (13, 14) for producing an opening moment (M) acting on the cutting gap (28) in the workpiece (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1985
    Inventors: Werner Stahl, Axel Barten
  • Patent number: 4553305
    Abstract: A tool adapted for use by a pipefitter in welding a length of pipe to a fitting in which one end of the pipe is accommodated with a predetermined spacing between the end of the pipe and an internal shoulder within the fitting. The tool has jaws which may be clamped on the pipe when the end of the latter is in abutting engagement with the shoulder of the fitting and includes spacers that are movable to a position between the jaws and the end of the fitting to provide a predetermined spacing between the free end of the pipe and the shoulder of the fitting. The tool also includes scribers for marking the pipe and the fitting in such manner as to facilitate verifying that such gap has been provided between the end of the pipe and the shoulder of the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1985
    Inventor: Timothy C. Dearman
  • Patent number: 4504085
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for bringing into proximity and connecting a quench stack and monomer ring for the melt spinning of synthetic polymer fibers. These members are brought into proximity through use of a reel assembly and are connected by means of a clamping device. The clamp, which is mounted on the quench stack, features a drawpiece comprising a rod. The rod is curved into a "U" shape, the base of which engages with a keeper element and the legs of which describe a circle bend prior to terminating in a threaded shank for mounting to the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventor: Harold G. Sachleben, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4484775
    Abstract: A rotatable lever and an initially transversely disposed adjustable linkage echanism for attachment in predetermined relation to at least one movable work-performing arm and operable such that upon rotation of the lever and linkage mechanism responsive to pivotal rotary movement of the lever portion thru a designated travel arc of at least approximately 90.degree., the movable arm moves much more rapidly during the first approximate one-half to three-quarters of its designated travel arc, and thereafter continues to move progressively slower in a firm positive manner thru the remainder of the travel arc, while moving from its transverse relationship to a generally parallel or linearly aligned relationship. This simplified mechanism is non-servo in character and relatively low cost compared to servo devices embodying continuous sensing and feedback circuitry. Among various uses are easy association with various known industrial type robot devices embodying programmed control of articulated mechanical arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1984
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: George E. Norkus
  • Patent number: 4483059
    Abstract: A tool for use in welding a pipe to a fitting and wherein a gap is to be provided between the end of the pipe and an internal shoulder in the fitting. The tool has support arms provided with jaws that may be clamped onto the pipe and shims that may be manipulated to provide the gap. The tool has scribes for inscribing marks on the fitting and on the pipe to facilitate inspections following welding operations. The jaws are pivotal relative to the support arms to facilitate welding operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1984
    Inventor: Timothy C. Dearman
  • Patent number: 4475728
    Abstract: A toggle actuated bench clamp including an elongated bar mounted on a swivel plate and having a fore and aft motion and an up and down motion but being constricted by said toggle actuated bench clamp, and a toggle mechanism to force one end of the bar down to clamp, the other end of the bar resting on a fulcrum point, or the like, rising from the top surface of the swivel plate. The swivel plate may be mounted on a table or bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Inventor: Arthur K. Haddad
  • Patent number: 4445677
    Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a plastic fitting against a plastic pipe and for holding them together with a predetermined clamping force includes a carriage and guide means for guiding the carriage in vertical motion above a fixed pipe support portion. A frame portion is fixed with respect to the pipe support portion, and first and second toggle links are pivoted to the carriage, to the frame portion and to each other in such a way that the links can achieve an aligned position in which the carriage is in its lowermost location. A mechanical interference means is provided to prevent the toggle links from going significantly past the dead center position represented by the alignment. Means are connected to the carriage for holding the plastic fitting, and lever means are provided for rotating one of the toggle links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1984
    Assignee: Cliffside Pipelayers
    Inventors: Bent J. Hansen, Clifford F. Thompson
  • Patent number: 4444379
    Abstract: A welding fixture mounts a self-clearing workpiece clamp having an arm that is pivotally mounted on the fixture and carries over-center toggle linkage for a clamp jaw. A trigger connected to the linkage is engaged by a moving welding head for releasing the clamp jaw, whereupon a spring swings the clamp arm clear of the welding head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1984
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas H. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 4427190
    Abstract: Clamps or connector elements (13) are secured to the ends of a conveyor b (10) by a pressure applying clamping tool (11) which includes two clamping rails (1, 2) for clamping down the belt end prior to the attaching of the clamps. A single operating lever (9) is used for clamping the upper rail (1) down against the lower rail (2). For this purpose each end of the upper rail (1) is secured to a respective fixed point (2) by a tie rod (3) and a rocking lever (4). Each rocking lever (4) is connected to a spring biased pull rod (5) which is operatively connected to the single operating lever (9) through a toggle type connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1984
    Assignee: Mato Maschinen- und Metallwarenfabrik Curt Matthaei GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Hermann Stolz
  • Patent number: 4416104
    Abstract: A clamping mechanism for an impulse sealer includes a pair of drive arms pivoted on a flat base member and a pressure arm pivoted about the same pivot between the drive arms. Complimentary pressure members are located at the free ends of the drive arms and pressure arm for clamping a member to be heat sealed. A pair of levers are pivoted intermediate their ends on the drive arms between the clamping member and the pivot. The levers are comprised of two arms disposed at oblique angles relative to each other with the end of the lower arm sliding on the flat surface of the base member. The free end of the upper arm of the lever is connected to the pressure arm at a point between the clamping member and the pivot by means of a connecting rod so that depression of the drive arm will cause the ends of the lower lever arm to slide along the surface of the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1983
    Assignee: Fuji Manufacturing Company Limited
    Inventor: Teruo Yamada
  • Patent number: 4407493
    Abstract: Toggle clamps, such as used for factory fixtures, typically have clamping arms which in use extend over a workpiece or workpieces; to remove the workpieces and insert new ones, the clamping arms must be opened wide, typically through an angle greater than 90.degree.. In prior fixtures this is done by utilizing a conventional four-bar linkage; the fixed geometry of such linkages provides no tolerance for clamping workpieces of different thicknesses except by screw-adjustment of a clamping foot.The present toggle clamp adjusts itself to a wide range of thicknesses. One of its members has a hollow containing a sliding locking wedge mechanism pivot-connected to the toggle link member of the mechanism; before it assumes the angle for toggle action, the wedge mechanism is held from locking by a cam on this link member. The sides of the hollow member are slotted, the pivot pin extends through the slot so that, for wide angle opening, the link can pull on the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1983
    Assignee: Carr Lane Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Raymond A. Okolischan
  • Patent number: 4396183
    Abstract: A power actuated workpiece clamp includes a clamping arm actuated by linear movement of a powered actuator member via a compound linkage. The linkage is such that the arm is maintained in the clamping position by a linkage geometer wherein three pivots of the compound linkage lie in a common plane aligned with the line of action of the force urging the clamp arm to its open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1983
    Inventor: Robert K. Lymburner
  • Patent number: 4378937
    Abstract: A pipe welder's aligning tool for use in joining two pipe members end to end comprises a clamp having a pair of jaws movable toward and away from one another so as separably to clamp one pipe member adjacent its end. The jaws carry supports of such length as to extend beyond the one end of the clamped pipe to provide support for the confronting end of a second pipe member that is to be joined to the clamped pipe. To enable the supports to function properly regardless of the diameters of the pipes that are to be joined, the supports are adjustable relatively to their associated jaws. One of the jaws may be mounted on an elongate member which is adjustable to enable the tool to be used on pipes of greatly differing diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1983
    Inventor: Timothy C. Dearman
  • Patent number: 4363476
    Abstract: A hand tool adapter for bench operation comprising a frame including a cradle adapted to receive one handle of a two-handle hand operated tool. The adapter includes apparatus for securing the handle in place in relatively fixed relationship with the base. An actuator arm is coupled via a linkage to the base and includes a receiver for the other handle of the hand operated tool. The base positions the jaws or working portion of the hand tool to the front of the base available for clearer visibility by the operator. The linkage provides mechanical advantage for the operator to minimize and tend to standardize the force required for actuation of the hand tool. The handle of the apparatus is dimensioned and positioned to provide a clearly defined range of movement from unoperated to operated positions. An adjustable stop limits travel of the operating handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1982
    Inventor: William C. Whittle
  • Patent number: 4359213
    Abstract: Apparatus for clamping one string of a three or more direction oriented string network of a game racket held in a support fixture, to that support fixture. The apparatus includes a pair of jaws adapted to be selectively biased against the string-to-be-clamped in the string network. The jaws include a portion adapted for extension through the openings between the strings of the network, including a plurality of teeth defined by inter-tooth grooves having angular orientations and spacings matching the angular orientations and spacings of the strings crossing the string-to-be-clamped in the network. In another form, an apparatus for selectively clamping two adjacent parallel strings of a three or more direction oriented string network in a game racket includes two pairs of jaws adapted for clamping the two strings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1982
    Inventors: Charles W. Bachman, J. Cary Bachman
  • Patent number: 4335873
    Abstract: A toggle clamp has a bolt carried by a swinging clamping arm for generally axially and limited arcuate movement in a clamping operation against a workpiece. The clamping end of the bolt is removably secured within a socket in a polyurethane work engaging bumper and seated against the socket base. By virtue of the physical characteristics of the polyurethane and interference fit between the bolt and the socket wall throughout an appreciable axial extent, the assembled bolt and bumper are capable of withstanding the axial and radial forces of repeated clamping operations and outwearing comparable assemblies available heretofore without recourse to a chemical bond between the bolt and bumper or an enlarged force distributing bolt head as has been required heretofore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1982
    Assignee: C. J. Edwards Company
    Inventor: Henry Kiefer
  • Patent number: 4331326
    Abstract: A clamp for releasably securing a workpiece to a support surface comprising a fixed member, a single stud mounting the fixed member to the support surface, a movable clamping member slidably coupled to the fixed member, and a handle-actuated toggle mechanism for reciprocating the clamping member into and out of the clamping position and for locking it in such position. A secondary release mechanism, in addition to the handle, is slidably mounted to the fixed member and has a cam thereon which cams the toggle mechanism out of its locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1982
    Inventor: Richard W. Strouss
  • Patent number: 4318512
    Abstract: The invention herein relates to the screen latching apparatus of a hammermill structure in which the improvement consists of a releasing and latching arrangement for the removal and replacement of a screen member by a tension linkage whereby the screen is released for removal from its operating position and the replacement screen is latched into position by the forward and reverse action of an operating handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1982
    Assignee: Jacobson Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard C. Jacobson, George R. Olson
  • Patent number: 4305575
    Abstract: A toe-nailing clamping tool that securely holds wood structural framing members in a fixed relationship to facilitate joining the members with increased accuracy and efficiency so as to provide increased strength. The tool is formed by a pair of oppositely disposed substantially L-shaped opposing jaws, each jaw being substantially L-shaped in cross-section and having barbed opposing surfaces. The jaws are supported in the fixed or detachable relationship by a pair of substantially C-shaped arms attached to plier-like handles of a leverage advantage locking plier, such that when the handles are squeezed together, the opposing jaws are locked into abutting contact with the wood structural framing members to permit accurate, efficient and structurally effective toe-nailing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1981
    Inventor: Dale L. Bardes
  • Patent number: 4296922
    Abstract: A tension clamping device is described, which is particularly suited for use as a bench clamp or vice. A workpiece is gripped in the jaws of the clamping device by forcing a pin, which engages notches in an area depending from one of the jaws, to travel in guiding slots until the workpiece is firmly gripped, then holding the pin in this position by an over-center action of the lever controlling the movement of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1981
    Inventors: Lindsay T. McGrath, Gilbert T. McGrath
  • Patent number: 4257583
    Abstract: There is disclosed a clamping device primarily for clamping workpieces in production forming presses or other production tools which includes a toggle mechanism powered by an air cylinder or other power actuator and cooperating in tandem with a hand toggle mechanism; the hand toggle mechanism provides a short travel at a very high force for the moving one of a pair of clamping jaws. The hand toggle mechanism must be moved through its travel to a locked position to actuate the powered toggle mechanism and preferably a valve or other control for the power actuator is positioned to operate upon locking of the hand toggle mechanism. The hand toggle mechanism is spring biased to unlock and open after the locking force imparted by the power toggle mechanism has been released. The release of the power toggle mechanism is by a hand operated valve or a press operated valve so that manual opening of the clamping jaws is not required on the part of the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1981
    Inventor: James W. Carson
  • Patent number: 4245828
    Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating, assembling and erecting the frame for a steel building, in which the frame is made up of a set of modular truss units which are joined together at the building site. The individual components of each truss unit are fabricated at a central location and are then shipped to an assembly location near the building site. At the assembly location, the components are welded together, prior to shipment to the building site, by use of special welding jigs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1981
    Assignee: Blackhawk Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John Aldag, Willis L. Wells
  • Patent number: 4239197
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting a door during processing and applying fixtures thereto prior to installing in a doorway comprises a rigid elongated frame including vertical supports at each end thereof and one or more longitudinal members interconnecting the vertical supports, each of such longitudinal members comprising a pair of telescoping tubular members and means for securing the tubular members in any desired relative positions to accommodate doors of different lengths. A pair of lateral door-supporting cross arms are individually pivotally connected to the vertical supports. A first clamp is secured to one of the cross arms near its pivotal connection to one of the vertical supports and is manually operable to clamp a door to the associated cross arm, while a second clamp is secured to the outer end of the other of the cross arms and is also manually operable to clamp a door thereto. Each of the clamps is preferably a resilient toggle joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1980
    Inventor: James H. Olstad
  • Patent number: 4238123
    Abstract: A toe-nailing clamping tool that securely holds wood structural framing members in a fixed relationship to facilitate joining the members with increased accuracy and efficiency so as to provide increased strength. The tool is formed by a pair of oppositely disposed substantially L-shaped opposing jaws, each jaw being substantially L-shaped in cross-section and having barbed opposing surfaces. The jaws are supported in the fixed or detachable relationship by a pair of substantially C-shaped arms attached to plier-like handles of a leverage advantage locking plier, such that when the handles are squeezed together, the opposing jaws are locked into abutting contact with the wood structural framing members to permit accurate, efficient and structurally effective toe-nailing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1980
    Inventor: Dale L. Bardes
  • Patent number: 4212606
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for bringing into proximity and connecting a quench stack and monomer ring for the melt spinning of synthetic polymer fibers. These members are brought into proximity through use of a reel assembly and are connected by means of a clamping device. The clamp, which is mounted on the quench stack, features a drawpiece comprising a rod. The rod is curved into a "U" shape, the base of which engages with a keeper element and the legs of which describe a circle bend prior to terminating in a threaded shank for mounting to the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1980
    Assignee: Allied Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Harold G. Sachleben, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4188023
    Abstract: Disclosed is a clamping device having a locking type mechanism which is particularly adaptable for use by well drillers, well repairmen and pump installers in securely holding pipe. The device comprises a base member having a bore and having an attached jaw, a sliding member partially located within the bore of the base member, a jaw attached to the portion of the sliding member outside the bore of the base member. The jaw on the sliding member is adapted to cooperate with the jaw attached to the base member to clamp about an object. The device further includes a clamping mechanism including a lever pivotably attached to the base member at a point on the arm spaced from the end of the lever, and a connecting linkage pivotably attached near the end of the lever and to the slidable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1980
    Assignee: Kent Whaley
    Inventors: Kent Whaley, Joseph Reinart
  • Patent number: 4184668
    Abstract: An adjustable quick acting vise having a toggle action lever acting upon a pair of spaced apart rails. The rails have a multiplicity of pairs of grooves for engaging a cross pin which is moveable by the toggle action. The multiplicity of pairs of grooves produces a multiplicity of vise openings for holding work pieces of varying width. The rails are removable in the preferred embodiment to allow the substitution of a pair of rails with greater or shorter length further increasing the flexability of the vise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1980
    Inventor: June A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4167865
    Abstract: A hand-operated bender apparatus for forming relatively thin metal stock into parts having predetermined shapes, comprising a base, a clamp on the base for holding portions of the metal stock to be shaped, and a elongate handle which is pivotally carried on the base and which can swivel about an axis thereon. The handle carries a spring-biased slide member on which there is mounted a transverse, upstanding pin constituting a shoulder adapted for engagement with the metal stock. The clamp is in the form of a vise having a fixed jaw constituted as a die, around which the metal stock is formed. The slide member is normally biased toward the pivotal axis of the handle but can yield outwardly in a direction away from such axis as the handle is swiveled, this occurring under the action of forces transmitted through the metal stock as it is being formed. The yieldable shoulder on the handle permits the use of dies having irregular shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1977
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1979
    Assignee: Mark Eyelet and Stamping, Inc.
    Inventor: Francis R. Powell
  • Patent number: 4141543
    Abstract: A toggle clamping device for locking workpieces in a fixed position is provided in which the toggle linkage includes two movable pins and a fixed pin which, when in alignment exert the maximum force against the workpieces. Releasable means are provided for locking the toggle linkage in the position of maximum clamping force, even when the thicknesses of the workpieces varies slightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1976
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1979
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Kato