Workpieces Normal To Each Other (e.g., Miter Clamps) Patents (Class 269/41)
  • Patent number: 6877731
    Abstract: A clamp for holding boards of wood adjacent other boards of wood for nailing, such as in a floor frame is described. The clamp generally includes an elongated body having a lever to open and close a fixed jaw and moveable jaw that are also connected to the body. An arm is connected to the body and to the lever. The jaws generally include teeth to sink into a surface of the wood to secure the wood within the jaws. An end piece includes lips to prevent unwanted movement of the wood as it is held within the jaws. The clamp further includes a tongue that is adapted to overhang other pieces of wood to which ht he board of wood is to be nailed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventor: J. Marlon Corley, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6860475
    Abstract: A clamping device allows welding, or other application of three-axis workpieces by providing X, Y, and Z clamping surfaces. The device is equipped with three mutually perpendicular base plates and on one of which a floating right-angle head is mounted through a threaded shaft with quick acting button for rapid advance and return. Inserts like leveling pads can be inserted to the tooling holes in the floating right-angle head to increase working access, especially at the joint area where the X and Y axes meet. A Z-axis attachment including base plate extension with clamping arm and a threaded shaft is mounted by screws to two of the base plates. The clamping arm of the Z-axis can be swung away for easy removal of the workpiece after work. The outside walls of the base plates are machined flat and square so that the angle clamp can be laid sideway to hold a workpiece vertically in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Valtra, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry Wong
  • Patent number: 6829972
    Abstract: A saw table for fixing frame pieces of frames of paintings, pictures or photos, includes a base table having two arms crossed and substantially perpendicular to each other and a gap at where the arms are crossed, wherein the arms are respectively provided with a fastening device to secure a frame piece to be cut, and a guiding assembly having a guiding shaft provided on one of the arms at where the arms are crossed and is adjacent to the gap and an attracting device movably mounted on the guiding shaft. The attracting device has a magnet thereon for attracting a saw blade attached on the attracting device with a blade cutting portion of the saw blade received in the gap and the guiding shaft and the attracting device are respectively provided with a positioning device to fixedly secure the attracting device on the guiding shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Wu Chen
  • Patent number: 6820868
    Abstract: An apparatus for temporarily suspending or supporting a fascia board during the installation thereof, along the eaves or the end of a rafter tail of a frame of a roof structure is described, wherein the device includes a U-shaped bucket (16) for supporting or suspending the fascia board. The U-shaped bucket is engaged in cooperating with a swivel bracket (10) and a rafter tail clamp saddle (4) for attachment to the end of the rafter tail, respectively, to the frame of the roof structure. The apparatus provides an improved method of installing a fascia board, wherein, one person can install the fascia board for the completion of the roof structure thereof. The apparatus can be easily removed and applied to another section of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Reginald W. Reymus
  • Patent number: 6729529
    Abstract: A system for providing cutting and orbitally welding thin-walled tubing. The system includes a plurality of clamping blocks that hold the tubing while the tubing is trimmed and orbitally welded. The system further includes at least one tooling plate to which the clamping blocks can be mounted such that the tubing is attached to the tooling plate and properly aligned for net length trimming. The system further includes a welding cassette for retaining the clamping blocks and properly aligning the tubing during orbital welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Paul J. Cecil, Roger G. Rae, Elton R. Rice
  • Patent number: 6702270
    Abstract: A device to assist carpenters in holding a stud in position to be nailed or otherwise fastened to a sill or plate. Sill guides allow the device to be positioned at a predetermined point on a sill. A single blow with a hammer drives pins in the bottom of the base region of the device into the plate to secure the device on the plate. Three sill guides define the area in which the stud is positioned and supported for nailing to the sill. A hammer blow on the flange rocks the device so that the pins are pulled free and the device removed when the stud has been secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Kurt Reschke
  • Publication number: 20040007803
    Abstract: A clamping device allows welding, or other application of three-axis workpieces by providing X, Y, and Z clamping surfaces. The device is equipped with three mutually perpendicular base plates and on one of which a floating right-angle head is mounted through a threaded shaft with quick acting button for rapid advance and return. Inserts like leveling pads can be inserted to the tooling holes in the floating right-angle head to increase working access, especially at the joint area where the X and Y axes meet. A Z-axis attachment including base plate extension with clamping arm and a threaded shaft is mounted by screws to two of the base plates. The clamping arm of the Z-axis can be swung away for easy removal of the workpiece after work. The outside walls of the base plates are machined flat and square so that the angle clamp can be laid sideway to hold a workpiece vertically in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Wong
  • Patent number: 6648318
    Abstract: A welding jig is provided for supporting and aligning first and second workpieces in preparation for a welding operation. The welding jig includes a first support arm extending along a first axis. A second support arm is operatively connected to the first support arm and extends along a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis. A first clamping member is operatively connected to the first end of the first support arm for supporting a first workpiece. A second clamping member is pivotably connected to the first end of the second support arm for supporting a second workpiece. The second clamping member may be pivoted about a vertical axis for adjusting the angle between the first and second workpieces. In addition, the axial position of the second workpiece may be adjusted by moving the second clamping member along an axis parallel to the first workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Oetlinger Tool Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Frank F. Oetlinger, Russell Kempka, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6572090
    Abstract: A fixture for positioning at least two articles in a predetermined relationship generally consisting of a body having at least two abutment surfaces disposed in such predetermined relationship, each of the surfaces having a port closeable upon positioning one of the articles on the surface in abutting relation therewith, in a passageway communicating with the port and communicable with a vacuum source; and a valve disposed in the passageway normally disposed in a closed position and operable to open upon positioning such article on such surface in abutting relation therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Thermwood Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Susnjara
  • Publication number: 20030062664
    Abstract: A board holder assembly comprising a base member, wherein the base member is configured for engaging a surface of a board, at least one lip member, wherein the at least one lip member emanates contiguously from the base member, and wherein the at least one lip member is configured for placement upon a support member of a structure; a first side wall and a second side wall emanating contiguously from the base member to form a substantially U-shaped channel for receiving the board therein; and a clamp associated with at least one of the first and second side walls to releasably secure the board in the substantially U-shaped channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Buitenhuis
  • Patent number: 6536752
    Abstract: A stud clamp is provided that attaches across a first stud providing a stationary brace for a second perpendicular stud to be connected to the first, thereby facilitating the toe-nailing process. The stud clamp is adjustable to fit variety of stud widths and has a clamping mechanism for securely clamping the device to the first stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Louie Gatanas
  • Patent number: 6527265
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for supporting and maintaining fascia in proper position during installation upon the exterior of a building, such as a residential dwelling. A forked member is temporarily attached to the eave of the building. A cross member is connected to the forked member. The vertical position of the cross member, relative to the forked member, is adjustable and temporarily fixable. A support member, upon which the fascia rests and is supported, is connectable to the cross member. The horizontal position of the support member, relative to the cross member, is adjustable and temporarily fixable. By selectively adjusting the horizontal position of the support member, and by selectively adjusting the vertical position of the cross member to which the support member is connected, the position of the support member, and thus the fascia, is precisely adjustable in two dimensions. The apparatus thus permits the fascia to be held in proper place while the user permanently installs the fascia to the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Clinton Goodding
  • Patent number: 6519825
    Abstract: A clamping head assembly for clamping a first member to a second member at a miter joint, where the clamping head assembly includes a first fence member with a first positioning edge for positioning an edge of the first member and a second fence member that is movable and includes a second positioning edge for positioning an edge of the second member. The second positioning edge is arranged at an angle with respect to the first positioning edge. Additionally, the first fence member and the second fence member are configured and arranged so that the angle is approximately bisected by the miter joint formed between the first and second members. The second fence member is movable in a direction that is approximately perpendicular to the miter joint, whereby a normal force is generated upon the miter joint. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a frame making machine that includes the clamping head assembly just described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Lambert, James W. Stone
  • Patent number: 6513286
    Abstract: A tool for hanging fascia board includes three parts. A first part consists of a t-bar having two pieces attached perpendicularly together and designed to be removably mounted on the end of a rafter board with the flat elongated member lying against a side wall of the rafter and with a portion of the second perpendicular member overlying the top of the rafter and removably affixed to it through the use of nails driven through openings in the second perpendicular member. A support hanger is pivotably mounted to the t-bar and has a slot sized and configured to slidably receive a fascia board. A depth adjuster is mounted on the support hanger and may be reciprocated and fixed in a desired position to adjust the depth of the slot of the support hanger. Thus, the depth of the slot may be adjusted to facilitate attachment of fascia boards of varying dimensions such as, for example, 2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 2×10, and 2×12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Brian J. Vierra
  • Publication number: 20020189194
    Abstract: An apparatus which is used for temporarily supporting a fascia board during the installation process and includes at least one adjustable bracket which allows any sized fascia board to be easily mounted at variable angles choice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Cathy D. Santa Cruz, Gary Potter
  • Patent number: 6491294
    Abstract: The invention is a clamping device attaching to a bar clamp or pipe clamp which, instead of providing a flat surface for singular longitudinal compression, the device allows for angular clamping, the device having a rotating base and clamping portion allowing for perpendicular or angular force application in two angular vector directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Dan A. Hyatt
  • Patent number: 6443441
    Abstract: A board holder assembly comprising: a base member, wherein the base member is configured for engaging a surface of a board; at least one lip member, wherein the at least one lip member emanates contiguously from the base member, and wherein the at least one lip member is configured for placement upon a support member of a structure; a first side wall and a second side wall emanating contiguously from the base member to form a substantially U-shaped channel for receiving the board therein; and a clamp associated with at least one of the first and second side walls to releasably secure the board in the substantially U-shaped channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Buitenhuis
  • Publication number: 20020109281
    Abstract: A board holder assembly comprising: a base member, wherein the base member is configured for engaging a surface of a board; at least one lip member, wherein the at least one lip member emanates contiguously from the base member, and wherein the at least one lip member is configured for placement upon a support member of a structure; a first side wall and a second side wall emanating contiguously from the base member to form a substantially U-shaped channel for receiving the board therein; and a clamp associated with at least one of the first and second side walls to releasably secure the board in the substantially U-shaped channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Buitenhuis
  • Publication number: 20020101016
    Abstract: A Ceiling Joist Clamp (used in pairs for most effectiveness) which can be fitted securely to a ceiling joist or to metal-frame stud to provide a unique supporting ledge that sheet material i.e. Plasterboard can slot onto thus being supported on one side whilst being fixed to the ceiling joist. The support ledge is unique because of its curved profile, bending downwards in a sweeping or radius bend and extending vertically to provide a vital secondary support area to facilitate the lifting of the sheet material up to the ceiling and into the support ledge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher Bryan Johnston
  • Publication number: 20020101015
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus is disclosed which when used with a threaded pressure plate of a pipe clamp and pipe, can clamp two work piece members of any length in perpendicular directions. The clamping apparatus is a jaw adjustable along the length of the pipe clamp pipe and takes the place of the adjustable pressure plate of the pipe clamp. The jaw clamps along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the pole of the pipe clamp pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Dana W. Holbrook
  • Patent number: 6391144
    Abstract: A jig for assembling a frame. The jig may be for woodworking and the frame may be for a picture. The jig comprises a top plate having a first and second opening. The top plate also contains an elongated slot. A bottom plate is laterally arranged below the top plate. The bottom plate contains a third and fourth opening. The bottom plate also contains an aligned elongated slot. A first guide bar and second guide bar are disposed through the openings in the plates, and fastener members, operatively associated with the first and second guide bar, is included for fastening the top plate and the bottom plate together. The jig may further comprise a guide member disposed between the top and bottom plate. The guide member has a first and second side that form a right angle so that the two inserted pieces of wood stock of the frame form a ninety degree corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Dana Gilbert, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6318712
    Abstract: A clamp for maintaining two butting segments in an adjoining relationship. First and second outer clamp members are adjustably secured to an angle inner clamp member. The spacing between the outer clamp members and the inner clamp members can be adjusted, and an operating element is provided for each outer clamp member for clamping purposes. An access aperture is located in the inner clamp member to permit access to the juncture between the two butting segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Randall R. Coffman
  • Patent number: 6318711
    Abstract: A fascia installation tool and method therefore is provided for installing fascia boards. The tool comprises a flat plate adapted to be mounted to a beam. The flat plate has an upper edge aligned with an upper surface of a beam and a front edge aligned to a front surface of a beam. An L-shaped plate has a first leg mounted to the flat plate with the first leg extending forwardly and downwardly parallel to the upper edge and a second leg extending upwardly and forwardly at a right angle from the first leg. The second leg, the first leg and the front edge form a cradle adapted to receive a fascia board therein. The cradle aligns the top of the fascia board to an upper surface of a beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: John E. Auston, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20010040179
    Abstract: A friction agitation joining apparatus for joining a plurality of abutted members includes rotatable chucking portions for chucking opposite ends of the abutted members while axially pressing the members, a supporting roller for supporting the members, a driving motor for rotating the abutted members about an axis thereof, and a joining device having a rotatable probe disposed adjacent to an abutted portion of the abutted members. The probe softens and agitates the abutted portion of the abutted members to join them in accordance with a rotation thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2000
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Masaharu Tochigi, Naoyuki Kawata
  • Publication number: 20010019190
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flange fixture intended to hold a flange to a tube for welding the flange to said tube, whereby it comprises: a) a cylindrical central body comprising at least three evenly distributed expansion holders as well as one cylindrical part provided with threads, whereby the expansion holders are each arranged to receive at least a radially movable expansion means, and whereby the cylindrical part being provided with threads is arranged to receive one controlling device influencing the radially movable expansion means for obtaining an outwardly directed movement; b) a first cylindrical shaft axially and rotatably mounted arranged in the central body and comprising a second controlling device arranged in the end thereof facing away from the central body; c) an axially and rotatably arranged second shaft in said shaft, which second shaft in its end receives at least three evenly distributed second expansion holders, which are each arranged to receive at least one radially moveable s
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: September 6, 2001
    Inventor: Jouko Haverinen
  • Patent number: 6279889
    Abstract: A fixture for holding an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is of the type having a front side and an opposing back side. The fixture positions the integrated circuit for simultaneously electrically probing and viewing both the front side and the back side of the integrated circuit. A supporting brace provides a support that is immobile in at least a first direction, against which to cooperatively brace the integrated circuit. A first jaw piece is disposed adjacent the supporting brace. The first jaw piece has a vee shape for receiving a first corner of the integrated circuit and cooperatively aligns the integrated circuit into a position for simultaneously electrically probing and viewing the front side and the back side of the integrated circuit. An adjustable brace provides a movable second position in the first direction relative to the supporting brace, against which to cooperatively brace the integrated circuit with the supporting brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: LSI Logic Corporation
    Inventor: Victor Tikhonov
  • Patent number: 6276676
    Abstract: A registration alignment system to be used with a printed circuit board drilling machine for registration of PCBs on the tooling plate for drilling and other operations. The registration alignment system includes a registration bar and a registration block that move independently of each other. The movement of the registration bar is constrained to one dimension (i.e., X-axis), and the movement of the registration block is constrained to one dimension (i.e., Y-axis) that is perpendicular to the axis of movement of the registration bar. The registration bar and block contact adjusting screws which are used to control precise movement of the registration bar and block. When the registration pins of the PCB are in position against the registration bar and block, the pins are held in place by clamping bars. When the size of the registration pins change, the registration of the new PCB is still correct and does not have to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Excellon Automation Company
    Inventors: Henry R. Martinez, Long D. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6272951
    Abstract: A hanger installing tool includes a pair of slidably mounted posts and an impact member for the driving of prongs of a joist hanger into a header. Arm members of the tool position the tool vertically on a header side with retainers on the arm members confining the tool in header engagement. Limit stops on the tool position an inserted hanger into place on the tool. A bracket attachable to the tool provides one of multiple limit stops for hangers of various lengths. A shoulder on the tool is abutted by the upper end of a hanger to contribute to proper hanger installation. Opposed surface of the tool are engaged in a biased manner by angular flanges of the hanger providing hanger retention during header attachment. Threaded sockets permit selective attachment of a tool handle to best serve convenient use of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Michael L. Lambson
  • Patent number: 6234447
    Abstract: A spacer for use in maintaining inner and outer concrete form walls at a specified uniform spacing. The spacer includes a screw shaft having a right hand threaded portion and a left hand threaded portion; a first nut threadably mounted on the left hand threaded portion; a second nut threadably mounted on the right hand threaded portion; a first spacer plate secured to and extending downwardly from the first nut; a second spacer plate secured to and extending downwardly from the second nut; and a stabilizer and stiffener assembly including a male guide structure secured to the first nut and including a rod extending generally parallel to the screw shaft and a female guide structure secured to the second nut and defining a socket telescopically receiving the free end of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Allor Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: John Allan Boyden, Dale Przybylowicz
  • Patent number: 6161823
    Abstract: A dynamic self-adjusting dual-action clamp comprising a first clamping component defining a plane and generating clamping force along a first clamping axis in that plane, and a second clamping component generating force in a second clamping axis substantially perpendicular to the first clamping axis, but within the same plane as the first clamping axis. The invention further includes elements used to adapt a standard spring actuated pliers-type clamp to convert such clamp to the dual-action clamp described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: John-Paul Bradford
  • Patent number: 6161296
    Abstract: An alignment device for use in welding which includes a saddle style support which rests upon a first pipe. A second pipe is clamped to the saddle style support in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the first pipe upon which the saddle style support rests. The second pipe serves as a carrier member of a fitting, such as a weldolet. Cinch straps can be used with the saddle style support to facilitate welding on the underside of horizontal pipes or on vertical pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: John Leon Thomas Joseph Davio
  • Patent number: 6156139
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for fusing a sidewall pipe onto a host pipe using pneumatic equipment. The functions of the fusing apparatus are controlled by a programmable computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Global Utility Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Owen Parish, II, Joseph G. Gho, Randall Jeff Kozak, Garry Joseph Anderson
  • Patent number: 6155547
    Abstract: A stud clamp is provided that attaches across a first stud providing a stationary brace for a second perpendicular stud to be connected to the first, thereby facilitating the toe-nailing process. The stud clamp is adjustable to fit variety of stud widths and has a clamping mechanism for securely clamping the device to the first stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Louie Gatanas
  • Patent number: 6138999
    Abstract: Two picture frame members can have their beveled end surfaces glued together by using a clamp mechanism to force the frame members into pressure contact at the end surfaces. The clamp mechanism includes a stationary stop member having a convex V-shaped edge surface contacting inner edges of the frame members, and a movable clamp member having a concave V-shaped edge surface contacting the outer edges of the frame members. Prongs on the stationary stop member prevent undesired shifting of the frame members while the clamp member is being advanced to exert pressure forces on the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Abraham Gombinsky
  • Patent number: 6126156
    Abstract: The present invention is a tool that quickly and accurately places joist hangers on headers to prepare the headers for the installation of joists. The tool has a lower flange which includes a transverse slot. An upper flange on the tool has two recesses spaced apart along a forward face of the upper flange. The recesses and the transverse slot cooperate to engage and constrain the joist hanger during installation. The tool also includes a handle member with a grip portion located remotely from the main body of the tool. The handle member allows an installer to position and install the joist hanger without exposing his hand to the area of installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Philip Brodeur
  • Patent number: 6102384
    Abstract: A nozzle setting jig useful for aligning and holding a nozzle in proper orientation in an upwardly positioned opening in a sidewall of a pipe or round vessel for welding the nozzle thereto. The jig is useful for use with standard nozzles which nozzles include a short cylindrical section with a flange attached to one end while the other end is contoured cut to coincide with the curvature of a sidewall of a pipe or vessel to which the nozzle will be attached. The nozzle setting jig includes a nozzle flange mounting plate with two length adjustably legs which are self centering and which are adaptable for use with numerous size nozzles. The jig allows a welder to set the proper depth of the nozzle within the opening in the pipe or vessel while also aligning the heavy nozzle both laterally and archingly in relation to the longitudinal axis of the pipe or vessel to which the nozzle will be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Charles W. Simmons
  • Patent number: 6073920
    Abstract: A corner clamp joining a pair of generally orthogonal elongated members is formed by slicing a generally C-shaped frame form an aluminum alloy extrusion so that the frame includes a member spanning opening with a pressure pad defining one extremity of the opening and an opposite opening extremity face including a threaded hole and a threaded shaft passing through the threaded hole and helically movable therein toward and away from the pressure pad. The members are joined by clamping them together between the pressure pad and the end of the movable shaft. One elongated member may be an I-beam and the other a U-shaped channel with the U opening away from the I-beam. The slice is taken obliquely to the direction of elongation of the extrusion so that the pressure pad has a non-rectangular generally parallelogram shaped face. When assembled, one edge of the pressure pad face extends generally parallel and adjacent to an inner U surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Universal Consolidated Method, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Colley
  • Patent number: 6029407
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a metal stud during wall construction comprises a frame including a pair of spaced-apart longitudinal members generally parallel to each other, a first cross member extending between the longitudinal members, a second cross member located at an intermediate position between the longitudinal members, and at least one stud magnet magnetically engageable with a metal stud. A base member adapted to engage a stud track is connected to the frame. The frame is disposable relative to the base member to position the metal stud substantially orthogonal to the stud track. The longitudinal members and the first cross member can comprise a unitary U-shaped member. The base member can be comprised of a pair of spaced-apart arms pivotably connected to the second cross member. The base member can further comprise a third arm pivotably connected to the pair of arms which pivots between a storage position and a working position. A method for erecting a metal wall partition is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: S&S Interiors, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel L. Schillero, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5992836
    Abstract: An adjustable angle corner block for holding objects together at an angle with respect to each other. The adjustable angle corner block includes first and second plates with the proximal end edges of the plates pivotally coupled together. A holding device is provided for releasably holding the plates in a position with respect to each other such that the plates cannot pivot out of the position when held by the holding device. Each of the plates has a mounting tube coupled to the back surface of the plate such that a first mounting tube is coupled to the back surface of the first plate and a second mounting tube is coupled to the back surface of the second plate. Each of the mounting tubes is adapted for receiving a threaded end of a pipe of a pipe clamp therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Justin Howe
  • Patent number: 5975790
    Abstract: A clamp 100A for connecting formwork panels 50, 50 together at a right angle has a symmetrical shape and comprises a generally triangular central section 1, one intermediate lever 3 connected pivotally to each of opposed sides of the central section 1, and an L-shaped holding arm 2 connected to the intermediate lever 3 by means of a link 4 that is pivotally joined with both the intermediate lever 3 and the holding arm 2. The central section 1 has two equal sides a, a which extend perpendicular to each other and at which the central section 1 engages with joint members 52, 52 of formwork panels 50, 50. Notches 1c are formed on each side a, and are adapted to bite into one joint member 52. Each side a of the central section 1 is thus capable of engaging very closely with the joint member 52. The holding arm 2 is also provided with notches 2c, so that the holding arm 2 also can engage very closely with the joint member 52.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Shinichi Nogami
  • Patent number: 5971379
    Abstract: An adjustable magnetic jig 20 includes a first magnetic holder 22, and a second magnetic holder 26. A pivoting joint 30 connects the first 22 and second 26 magnetic holders, so that the angle A between the holders may be selectively adjusted. Pivoting joint 30 is also selectively lockable so that angle A can be fixedly maintained. Jig 20 is particularly useful in holding magnetic workpieces 500 in a desired physical relationship so that the two workpieces 500 can be welded together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond Leon, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5948189
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for fusing a sidewall pipe onto a host pipe using pneumatic equipment. The functions of the fusing apparatus are controlled by a programmable computer. Further, as each fuse is performed, a GPS system provides and stores the geographical location of the fuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Global Utility Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Owen Parish, II, Joseph G. Gho, Randall Jeff Kozak, Garry Joseph Anderson
  • Patent number: 5921525
    Abstract: An L-shaped assembly fixture is used in connecting cables between components in a housing and a top panel for closing the housing after assembly. A base plate of the fixture has opposite side edges and opposite end edges, and an upright plate is secured along one side edge of the base plate so as to project upwardly in a direction perpendicular to the base plate. The upright plate has an upper edge with a slot extending along the length of the upper edge for supporting a top panel vertically adjacent an open face of a housing which is supported on the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventor: Theodore R. Reyes
  • Patent number: 5884904
    Abstract: A support structure to aid in the creation of a corner joint between two planar perpendicularly-situated workpieces. The support structure of the invention consists primarily of a horizontal and vertical support surface, with the vertical support surface displaced from the horizontal surface and separated therefrom by a clearance area, such clearance area designed to accommodate excess material present at the formation of the corner joint between the two workpieces. The support structure of the invention may be used to create a single corner joint, or a second support structure may be implemented in conjunction with the first support structure to simultaneously create multiple corner joints. A variety of clamping and fastening implements are disclosed to maintain the workpieces attached to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: Donald Martini
  • Patent number: 5884905
    Abstract: A device for clamping two bevel-cut strips (24) so that they may be joined to each other comprises slides (20) for clamping the strips (24) and a displacement member (36). The slides (20) are L-shaped in cross-section, are displaceable at right angles to each other and are located in guides (34) mounted on a base plate (10). Each slide (20) is associated with a displaceable clamping member (46) which engages the respective strip (24). The guide (34) of each slide (20) has sufficient play in the vertical direction so that the vertical position of the slide (20) on the base plate (10) can be adjusted before the strips are joined (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventor: Werner Keindl
  • Patent number: 5873568
    Abstract: A tool for supporting a rain gutter during its installation on a fascia board. The tool has a height-adjustable bracket and locking pliers with jaws having wide, flat working faces. Once several such tools are temporarily locked onto the lower edge of the fascia board, not only can they be used to support an elongated gutter but also each of the tools can be moved vertically without disturbing the pliers clamping it to the board, thereby making these tools especially handy for setting the height and slope of the gutter. For holding the adjustable bracket in position, each tool includes a mounting block which is rigidly attached to the back of a fixed jaw of the locking pliers and defines a pair of holes which extend parallel to the plane of the working face of the fixed jaw. The bracket is formed from an elongated rod bent to form an angular structure which terminates in a pair of parallel branches slideably insertable into the holes formed in the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Roy M. Mayfield
  • Patent number: 5863033
    Abstract: A dynamic self-adjusting dual-action clamp comprising a first clamping component defining a plane and generating clamping force along a first clamping axis in that plane, and a second clamping component generating force in a second clamping axis substantially perpendicular to the first clamping axis, but within the same plane as the first clamping axis. The invention further includes elements used to adapt a standard spring actuated pliers-type clamp to convert such clamp to the dual-action clamp described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: John-Paul Bradford
  • Patent number: 5791639
    Abstract: An articulating and telescoping assembly for temporarily supporting construction framing members. A base includes a number of radially directed sockets which receive detachable stabilizers. A telescoping stanchion pivots at the base and supports a gimbaled workpiece holder having support saddles, which holder is also vertically adjustable along the stanchion. A length adjustable brace pivots at the base and is vertically adjustable along the stanchion at a clamp to determine a plumb angle of the stanchion. Alternative constructions of the workpiece holders, holder support clamp, brace, stanchion pivots, and stanchion extenders are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventors: Russell M. Johnston, John W. Krispin
  • Patent number: 5785305
    Abstract: A new adjustable woodworking clamp for holding elongated workpieces end to end for being joined. The inventive device includes an elongated base plate. A fixed arm is fixedly secured to the base plate. The fixed arm extends angularly upwardly from the base plate for supporting a first workpiece. A pair of shoulder bolts extend through the elongated base plate. A sliding plate is provided having a pair of slots therethrough for coupling with the pair of shoulder bolts. The sliding plate has an interior flared end. A sliding arm is secured to the sliding plate. The sliding arm extends angularly upwardly with respect to the base plate for supporting a second workpiece to be joined to the first workpiece at a predetermined angle. A pair of clamps are coupled with respect to upper ends of the fixed arm and the sliding arm for securement of the workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Kirk T. Stalker
  • Patent number: 5785306
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in installing the framework for supporting a suspended ceiling having a pair of parallel legs for supporting a section of gridwork and a clamp for attaching the apparatus to a ceiling joist. The apparatus includes a plurality of grid supporting positions as well as level indicating means to accurately position the suspended ceiling supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventors: Earnest L. Wilson, Robert A. Bailey