Workpieces Parallel To Each Other (e.g., Box-shook Clamp) Patents (Class 269/43)
  • Publication number: 20100013135
    Abstract: A holding apparatus for securing an object is disclosed. The holding apparatus secures the object allowing access to the object from different angles and positions. The holding apparatus can be rotated while the object is attached providing access to different areas of the object. The holding apparatus can easily and quickly secure the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Jamal Carey
  • Patent number: 7584586
    Abstract: A ceiling panel installation bracket has first and second flanges, and is alternatively attachable to an overhead joist or to a vertical surface of a top plate spanning a set of wall studs. The bracket has a hinged flange to which an elongated, oblique, floor-engaging, panel support can be secured. Two assemblies, each consisting of a bracket and an elongated panel support are used in laterally space relationship to guide a ceiling panel into place. Retractable stops provided on the oblique supports are used to support a ceiling panel temporarily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Selden M. Decker
  • Publication number: 20090212477
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adjustable door spreader apparatus for use in the door framing industry. The apparatus equips a carpenter engaged in framing doors with an adjustable door spreader capable of spreading virtually all common door sizes, thereby saving time and materials by eliminating the need to build a single-use spreader for each door to be framed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Secreto
  • Patent number: 7568683
    Abstract: A fixture plate for use with a CNC milling machine. The fixture plate is constructed of a generally rectangular block having a top surface, a bottom surface and a forward edge. The bottom surface of the block is positioned to rest on the support surface with the forward edge of the block resting against the fixed jaw. The bottom surface of the block includes a cavity in which is mounted a clamping pin for coupling with the vise hook nut. When the machine screw is manipulated to move the mounting block toward the fixed jaw, the block is clamped to the vise between the fixed jaw and the vise hook nut. The top surface of the block is provided with grooves shaped to conform to the peripheral shape of each of the multiple workpieces. Clamping nuts, recessed in the grooves, are used for clamping the multiple workpieces to the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen R. Lovas
  • Publication number: 20090146354
    Abstract: A tool for temporarily holding a second framing member to be fastened into a frame assembly parallel to a first framing member that is already fastened into the assembly. It has a track 1 with a first fixed clamp plate 2 on one end and a second movable clamp plate 11 on the other end; a slide bar 20 mounted on the track between the first and second plates; third 21 and fourth 29 fixed clamp plates on respective ends of the slide; and a clamp closing device 15 that moves the second plate inward toward the fourth plate. A second workpiece 32 between the second and fourth plates will be clamped between them, and will push the slide toward the first plate, simultaneously clamping a first workpiece 31 between the first and third plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: George T. Metroyanis
  • Publication number: 20090096147
    Abstract: This herein taught technology relates in general to milling machine apparatus for reducing inaccuracies associated with mounting fixtures on a milling machine surface having a movable guide. It comprises a loading arm which is secured directly within the jaws of the vise to permit manipulation of the vise at the end thereof. The device is secured directly to the milling machine apparatus or adjacent wall surface to permit convenient use of the device and safe storage of the vise when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Spyros Chaidemenos
  • Publication number: 20090026679
    Abstract: A gun vise for adjustably holding a gun on a mounting surface includes a coupling component, a mounting component, a horizontal adjustment mechanism, and a vertical adjustment mechanism. The coupling component is configured to couple a gun to the gun vise. The mounting component is configured to secure the gun vise to a mounting surface. The horizontal adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust a position of the coupling component in a first direction. The vertical adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust a position of the coupling component in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: James Pope Harman, III
  • Publication number: 20080313916
    Abstract: A template apparatus is provided for the construction of a wall frame. A base section includes a plurality of base units. Each base unit has two ends and has two legs generally situated at an angle to one another to form an apex; A cross member is connected to both legs opposite from the apex. A pair of journal plates, are secured to the apex at each end and extending away from the cross members. A journal is located in each journal plate above the apex. A support shaft is mounted to rotate in the journals. A template section is mounted on the support shaft. The template section includes a plurality of longitudinal members. Each longitudinal member is secured to the support shaft. A pair of alignment members are affixed to the longitudinal members. The alignment members are located on opposite sides of the support shaft. Alignment pins are located on the alignment members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory A. Xedis, IV
  • Patent number: 7451968
    Abstract: This invention relates to racks for securely holding a variety of objects. The racks are easily mounted in the horizontal, vertical and/or diagonal positions. Moreover, the racks will rigidly hold objects of varying thickness without complicated adjustments of the contact surface area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Jason Geldert
  • Patent number: 7445697
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for retaining a workpiece against a workpiece holder are described. A flexible member can be used to provide a substantially uniform force to securely retain the workpiece, which can allow the workpiece to be consistently positioned in a process module. In one detailed embodiment, a barrier to fluid entry is formed between the workpiece and a ring for retaining the workpiece against a workpiece holder. This provides a reliable seal during fluid processing to prevent fluid from reaching the underside of a workpiece. In various embodiments, the workpiece holder can be used to align a workpiece in a process module or to hold one or more workpieces in a configuration that allows for higher throughput.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: NEXX Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur Keigler, John Harrell, Zhenqiu Liu, Qunwei Wu
  • Patent number: 7421768
    Abstract: A fuel hose line assembling apparatus comprises a base, a transmission, a fixing member and a hose fixing jig. The base comprises at least two chutes. The transmission and the hose fixing jig are mounted on two sides of the base respectively. An adjusting screw is movably installed in the pedestal and the fixing member is mounted on one side of the adjusting screw. Therefore, the fixing member is moved on the base by the adjusting screw driving. Moreover, the fixing member has a fixture jig for putting a nut therein and the hose fixing jig clips a hose fixedly. When a user drives the transmission to move the fixing member, the nut is firmly scabbarded in the hose line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Chun-Pao Chiang
  • Patent number: 7396005
    Abstract: A clamping device contains a clamp jaw fixed in vertical direction, a clamp jaw moveable in vertical direction and a force transducer for applying a force to the moveable clamp jaw. The moveable clamp jaw is curved. The force transducer preferably comprises a coil and an iron core. In the non-clamping condition of the clamping device, the moveable clamp jaw is loaded with the weight of the iron core. For clamping, a current is applied to the coil that produces a magnetic field that presses the iron core against the moveable clamp jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Unaxis International Trading Ltd.
    Inventors: Jean-Baptiste Berset, Martin Deflorin, Pascal Menet
  • Patent number: 7331093
    Abstract: A pieces hold-unit for machine tools such as workstations, transfer machines and milling machines is provided which comprises two parallel supports (12, 13) placed on a plane with at least a first of said support guided, controlled and movable with respect to the other one in order to approach and move them away, at least a first clamp-holder shaft (14) rotary mounted on the said first support and controlled for rotating, a second clamp-holder shaft (15) mounted on the other of said supports. Each shaft holds a clamp opposite to that of the other shaft, and one gear-reduction unit (16) is located at least on board of the support carrying said first shaft to follow the movements of said support and cause the gradual rotation of said first shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: DM2 di DUINA Gianfranco S.r.l.
    Inventor: Rosario Ferrari
  • Patent number: 7322571
    Abstract: A clamp is adapted to be secured to a second substantially identical clamp in order to accommodate a larger workpiece than can be held by a single clamp. The clamp includes a first jaw that is secured to an intermediate member, such as a bar or pipe, and a second jaw that is removeably securable to the intermediate member so as to selectively oppose the first jaw. The second jaw includes a surface thereon that is configured to interlock with a complimentarily-shaped surface on a second jaw of the second clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Adjustable Clamp Company
    Inventor: Scott D. Springer
  • Publication number: 20080006976
    Abstract: A portable framing jig for aiding in the assembly of framed structures includes an elongated device having a main planar segment and a side planar segment that are joined in a right angle relationship. The jig is made of a fracture resistant material such as aluminium or plastic. A plurality of inner stud cradles and outer stud cradles are longitudinally spaced within the main planar segment and consist of a transverse opening into which a stud is seated. The outer stud cradles are located at the either end of the device, while the inner cradles are spaced within it, and together they enable the aligning, bracing and spacing of the ends of studs during the fastening process. Shoulders are located on the main planar segment in alignment with the cradle sides. Each outer stud cradle has within it a removable spacer, which when engaged offsets a stud from the inner surface of the cradle opening to accommodate the unique spacing requirements of the first or last stud of a framing section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Tobiah George Heber Riley
  • Patent number: 7293765
    Abstract: A power vise in which a supplementary power source is used to open and close the jaws. The power vise may be actuated by a remote control, so the operator may have both hands free to hold the workpiece as it is placed in or removed from the vise and may also include a mechanism for regulating the pressure developed between the jaws. When the power source is electric, the electrically operated vise includes an output shaft of an electric motor connected to the advance screw of the vise to turn the screw and close or open the jaws. When the power source is hydraulic, the hydraulically operated vise includes a hydraulic ram, with a first jaw affixed to the hydraulic cylinder and a second jaw affixed to the piston rod of the hydraulic device. Hydraulic pressure is used to retract and extend the piston rod, thereby closing and opening the jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Ronald L. Hooper
  • Patent number: 7290760
    Abstract: A locking positioning mechanism utilizing cam locks. The invention provides lever operated cam locking mechanisms for locking a rotating, tilting and positioning vise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Steven James Lindsay
  • Patent number: 7255319
    Abstract: A square tubular steel frame extends between inner and outer concrete footing form walls and prevents the inner and outer form walls from bowing inwardly and causing an undesirable narrow footing width, or bowing outwardly and causing a form blowout. The steel frame is adjustable in width to accommodate the narrowest to the widest footings. A lower bracket supports the bottom of the form, and is adjustable in height. Each end of the frame is replaceable to accommodate a single form thickness, or to accommodate overlapping forms. The frame is reusable, easy to set up, and simple to take down and move to the next job, and is safe to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Rocchino Albano
  • Publication number: 20070164494
    Abstract: A clamping device includes an upper plate, a lower plate, a clamping body, an upward/downward moving unit and an elastically adjusting unit. The lower plate is adapted to support a product. The upward/downward moving unit is adapted to move the clamping body and the upper plate downward, whereby the upper and lower plates upward and downward press the product respectively. The elastically adjusting unit has two ends which are respectively mounted to the upper plate and the clamping body, thereby providing the upper plate with an elastic force so as to uniformly press the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: ADVANCED SEMICONDUCTOR ENGINEERING INC.
    Inventor: Chia Ming Chang
  • Patent number: 7237425
    Abstract: The present invention is a hinge repair tool constructed from two, spaced apart pairs of modified vise grip or wrench pliers. A single, elongated, upper bar is connected to the respective top jaws of each of the pairs of pliers. Two lower bars are also connected to respective lower jaws of the two pairs of pliers. Each of the pairs of pliers is operative independently of one another, so that each of the respective lower bars can be repositioned relative to the common upper bar. The lower bars are separated from one another and a gap is formed therebetween. A rigid bar is connected to the handles of the two pairs of pliers to provide additional stability. The vise grip pliers each include a mechanism for locking the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Richard D. Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 7226047
    Abstract: A welder's pipe clamp includes a pair of reciprocal handle members each having a pivotal jaw attached thereto. Each jaw includes a pipe clamping member pivotally attached to a distal end thereof. Each pipe clamping member includes upper and lower arcuate, pipe-engaging surfaces that maintain a pair of pipe sections in alignment for a welder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Abel Beauchamp
  • Patent number: 7174614
    Abstract: A device for engaging first and second terminal ends of a vehicle track and drawing the terminal ends together in order to facilitate their connection to form a closed loop of track. The device comprises first and second coupling ends for engaging respective terminal ends of the track; a terminal guide plate; and two guide rods and a threaded drive rod extending between the first coupling end and the terminal guide plate and passing through the second coupling end. Fittings are provided at both ends of the drive rod. Turning either or both of the fittings causes the drive rod to turn, which causes the second coupling end to move toward the first, thereby drawing the first and second terminal ends together. In alternative embodiments, this screw-type drive mechanism is replaced by ratchet-type and hydraulic/pneumatic-type drive mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventors: Dwayne A. Martz, Todd A. Betleiewski, Jeffrey H. Turner, Jr., Michael R. Bourquin
  • Patent number: 7172184
    Abstract: A carrier for use in processing of a plurality of wafers or other substrates includes a support frame on which the wafers are mounted and in one embodiment at least one auxiliary frame for holding the substrates on the support frame. A plurality of clips extend from the auxiliary frame and engage the substrates in pressure engagement, and fasteners retain the auxiliary frame in position with respect to the support frame. In one embodiment two auxiliary frames can be employed for holding wafers on opposing surfaces of the support frame. The support frame has electrically non-conducting surfaces whereby the processing does not affect the support frame, and the auxiliary frame is made of electrically non-conductive material. The clips are electrically conductive and bridge current from the support frame to the wafers during plating operations. In another embodiment, auxiliary frame are not used and the wafer retention clips are mounted on the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Sunpower Corporation
    Inventors: Luca Pavani, Neil Kaminar, Pongsthorn Uralwong, Thomas Phu, Douglas H. Rose, Thomas Pass
  • Patent number: 7163201
    Abstract: Two station vise for manual or hydraulic operation with a quick-change stationary that can be carvable, hard or reversible. the stationary jaw having two precision through holes is placed on expanding pins, located on the top longitudinal rails of the vise body, that precisely position and tighten the stationary block in place. Two movable jaws connected by a tubular drive form an axially adjustable floating assembly. A manually turned tubular drive has an external threaded screw to move simultaneously the first jaw/nut and an internal thread that moves the second jaw/nut, on the opposite side of the stationary. Hydraulically parts are clamped at the two stations with a piston located in the second jaw/nut and connected axially with the first jaw/nut by the tubular drive. A setup-block located at the front jaw/nut keeps both jaws at proper position for loading and unloading of parts. The setup-block also allows for pre-clamping or retention of the part in the rear station before clamping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Kurt Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Leon M. Bernstein
  • Patent number: 7144003
    Abstract: The device of the present invention is useful for facilitating the soldering of materials. More specifically, the device of the present invention is useful for the positioning and securing of at least two electrically conductive materials such that those materials can be effectively soldered together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: John Meade
  • Patent number: 7134650
    Abstract: A vise has a jaw connected to a jaw support has a recess formed in a rear surface. A biasing member in the recess applies a force to the recess having a downward component to secure a workpiece to the vise. The biasing member may be the end of a set screw, a ball bearing or cam. The recess may be provided with an inclined surface to allow a horizontal force to be converted into a force having a vertical component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Fablock, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Trudel, Frederic Tremblay
  • Patent number: 7128313
    Abstract: A vise and base system is disclosed. The vise includes a stationary jaw, a frame with a frame perimeter wall and a moveable jaw, the stationary jaw being fixed to the frame, and the moveable jaw that is movable along the frame. The vise cooperates with a hollow base that includes a first recessed area that is adapted for mating with the frame perimeter wall and a second recessed area that is adapted for mating with the stationary jaw. The base also includes a base panel that is attached to the base perimeter wall and a layer of flexible high friction material that is attached to the base panel, such that the base can support the vise in a generally horizontal position and in a generally vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Larry E. Pliley
  • Patent number: 7100353
    Abstract: A portable disassembly tool is provided to disassemble a track link assembly from a machine by removing opposed track links from the track link assembly. The portable disassembly tool includes first and second members that are tightly secured to the track link to be removed by a plurality of fasteners. The second member has clearance holes therein to freely receive the ends of the associated track pin assemblies. A third member having spacer members extending therefrom is disposed adjacent to the second member with the spacer members extending into the respective clearance holes into contact with the ends of the track pin assemblies and secured to the second member by a second plurality of fasteners. By alternately tightening the plurality of fasteners, the track link is pulled from the associated track pin assemblies. During the removal of the track link, binding in any direction is overcome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Roy L. Maguire
  • Patent number: 7036808
    Abstract: A clamp device including a support frame member, a lower clamp unit and an upper clamp unit supported by the support frame member. The lower clamp unit has a pair of lower jaws and a first actuator for actuating at least one of the lower jaws between clamped and unclamped positions. The upper clamp unit has a first upper jaw and a second upper jaw, and a second actuator for actuating at least one of the upper jaws between clamped and unclamped positions, the first upper jaw being fixed for movement with one of the lower jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Singee Cheah
  • Patent number: 7036807
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for clamping a work piece is disclosed. The apparatus generally includes a stationary jaw with a first clamping surface and a moveable jaw with a second clamping surface connected and operated by a spindle. The spindle moves the stationary jaw and moveable jaw toward each other when rotated in one direction. The spindle disengages the stationary jaw when rotated in the opposite direction, thus allowing for rapid adjustment of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Industrial Technologies Company, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Karen Gasparyan, Patvakan Hakhinyan
  • Patent number: 7036202
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for attachment to pipe handling arm, comprising a clamp for gripping a tubular and a guide for aligning said tubular with another tubular prior to connection thereof, characterized in that said clamp and said guide are movable relative to each other in a direction longitudinal of the tubular, the arrangement being such that said tubular can be brought closer to said another tubular in a direction longitudinal of the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Georg Lorenz
  • Patent number: 7017897
    Abstract: A clamp device including a support frame member, a lower clamp unit and an upper clamp unit supported by the support frame member. The lower clamp unit has a pair of lower jaws and a first actuator for actuating at least one of the lower jaws between clamped and unclamped positions. The upper clamp unit has a first upper jaw and a second upper jaw, and a second actuator for actuating one or more of the upper jaws between clamped and unclamped positions, the first upper jaw being fixed for movement with one of the lower jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Singee Cheah
  • Patent number: 7017898
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a workpiece in accordance with the invention, such as a vise, includes a base for supporting the apparatus on a work surface, a back jaw member connected to the base for engaging a first portion of the workpiece secured by the apparatus, and a front jaw member connected to the back jaw member for engaging a second portion of the workpiece secured by the apparatus. The apparatus may include a clutched handle capable of shifting between an engaged position wherein the handle engages and drives a driven member and a disengaged position wherein the handle disengages from the driven member and is freely positionable in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction with respect to the driven member. The apparatus may also include an accessory capable of being connected to the apparatus in order to perform additional work on a workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: WMH Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Varzino, William J. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6983525
    Abstract: To align the edges of plates prior to joining them, a generally cylindrical anchor member is spot welded at one location on one of its rims to a plate. A mounting element of a clamp body member slidably engages the anchor member. A force applicator element of the clamp body member is generally laterally spaced from the mounting element. The mounting element includes a generally arcuately extended semi-cylindrical socket portion of such a diameter that it slidably and snugly mounts the socket portion thereon. The rim portions of the anchor member provide a plurality of spot mounting locations for breakably spot welding, brazing or otherwise temporarily attaching the anchor member to a plate or other substrate. At least one of the force applicator or mounting elements is adapted to the incremental application of aligning force on adjacent plates. The body of the clamp bridges between the respective plates that are to be brought into line with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Valtra, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Moreno
  • Patent number: 6951096
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable machine for assembling a track for a track type work machine. A positioning block is provided for alignment of a pair of track pins that are to receive an outer track joint. A portable assembly tool having a pair of contact tools is adapted to receive a pair of outer track joints. The assembly tool is positioned over the positioning block and a hydraulic ram is extended to press each of the outer track links onto the track pins. The present invention is used with track assemblies that do not require master links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Roy L. Maguire, James A. Huenefeld, Darryl J. Brincks
  • Patent number: 6891341
    Abstract: An aligning apparatus for a semiconductor device test handler is provided which reduces semiconductor device loading and unloading time. An exchange unit of the handler includes a pair of aligners which operate independently to continuously transfer devices to a test site of the handler for test, and then away from the handler upon completion of the test. Both horizontal and vertical movement of each of the aligners facilitates the loading and unloading of semiconductor devices. This aligning apparatus provides for simplified design and operation of the aligners, and improves loading and unloading speed, thereby enhancing test efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Mirae Corporation
    Inventor: Jae Hyuk Cho
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040245693
    Abstract: A fixture for rapidly and precisely mounting uniquely-shaped work-pieces in machine tools, incorporates a U-shaped member whose bight is fixed to the fixture and whose upright legs constitute levers on the free ends of which are formed lateral outside and inside surfaces. The outside surfaces engage the work-pieces; the inside surfaces, convex in the vertical direction, are engaged by an operator to move the lever free ends outwards to engage the work-pieces. The operator is a vertical cone, driven axially by a bolt fixed to it and threaded into the fixture through the bight. The U-shaped member may be seated in a well on the fixture, and cut-outs on the surfaces of the fixture and the lever free ends have edges complementary to the work pieces and receive the work-pieces prior to being fixed on the fixture. In an alternative embodiment, the outside surfaces of the lever free ends my engage the inside of a work-piece to fix it on the fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: Gunther Siegel
  • Publication number: 20040244180
    Abstract: A fixture adapted to precisely position two components to permit multiple machining operations of the components at a single work station. The fixture includes a backbone having a first portion for securing the first component and a second portion for securing the second component. First and second portions each further include an integral lobe and a finger which extend outwardly from the backbone, each terminating in a datum surface, as well as an additional datum surface which collectively form a set of datum locators along both the first and second portions. Each set of datum locators precisely positions the two components at a predetermined distance and orientation from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel E. Jones, Jacques Juneau, Vineet Vermani, Sukhminder S. Grewal, Kenneth Edward Mascarenas
  • Patent number: 6773003
    Abstract: A compound soft jaw for use in a machine vise has a replaceable jaw member into which the templates of the workpieces are cut. The compound soft jaw has a primary jaw member secured to a receiving plate of the machine vice. The first secondary jaw member is secured to the primary jaw member. The first secondary jaw member is machined to have a cutting template formed therein such that as the workpiece is secured within the machine vise, the workpiece is machined according to the template. Upon completion of machining of the workpiece, the first secondary jaw member is replaceable by a second secondary jaw member into which a second cutting template is formed. The primary jaw member has a height less than a height of the receiving plate. The secondary jaw member is placed on the primary jaw member and is forced into contact with a surface of the receiving. The secondary jaw member is then supported by the receiving plate, which prevents the secondary jaw member from movement during securing the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Donald Joseph Dermody, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6764434
    Abstract: A machining center comprising at least two workstations. A first workstation is adapted to receive a first workpiece, and a second workstation is adapted to receive a second workpiece. The first workstation may be a vacuum table, and the second workstation may be comprised of a plurality of hold-down bars. A carriage is adapted to travel between the two workstations in one machine cycle. The carriage may have a single tool or a plurality of tools. During the machine cycle, the carriage is adapted to perform a machining operation (e.g., routing, drilling, sawing, and/or sanding) on the workpiece at each workstation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Wilhelm Volk
  • Patent number: 6755912
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for preheating golf balls prior to painting. The process includes forming golf balls with covers, heating, coating, and further heating the golf balls in a heated enclosure. The apparatus includes a ventilated holding tray that in addition to supporting the golf balls with a minimum of contact between balls and tray will allow for a thorough flow of heat about the balls for quick and uniform heating. This also will aid in reducing blemishes to the golf balls, by suspending freshly painted golf balls on conical pins set at right angles to the balls, thereby reducing the physical contact between the tray and freshly painted golf balls. The tray comprises replaceable ball support inserts. The inserts will generally be made from injection molded plastic and will be friction-fitted to the tray, and if damaged can be easily and inexpensively replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: Stanley W. Brown, David W. Sauerbrey, Robert N. Lammi
  • Patent number: 6742243
    Abstract: A component assembly system precisely aligns a plurality of components in a circumferential direction and assembles the components together. A plurality of guide channels extending radially from an axis are formed in a disc-shaped base member. A plurality of slide members on which the upper and lower ends of coils are mounted are supported in the guide channels in a slidable manner. The slide members are positioned so as to make contact with a circular first positioning member by moving the slide members inward along the guide channels in the radial direction and further positioned by fitting a cylindrical second positioning member around the outer periphery of the slide members. In the course of the slide members converging on the circumference of a circle having a center on the axis, the coils mounted on the slide members mesh with each other so as to be unified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushi Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideharu Izumi, Taizo Kitamura, Masashi Shinohara
  • Publication number: 20040080088
    Abstract: A jig (40) for locating anchor bolts in concrete standards of outdoor lighting installations comprises four complementary corner members (42) that can be interconnected and then secured together with fasteners (45) in the desired pattern. A second embodiment (70) comprised of male and female members (72, 74) is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Mark S. Grendahl
  • Patent number: 6705372
    Abstract: A buckle pivotally arranged in a movable clamp 12 of a first tube holder 1 is attached with play to a buckle 120 pivotally arranged in a movable clamp 82 of a second tube holder 2. When tubes are held in the first and second tube holders 1 and 2, release of the tubes from the holders 1 and 2 is prevented by a movement of a plunger 203 in correspondence of excitation and demagnetization of a solenoid 202 for a predetermined period of operation of the apparatus after holding the tubes (i.e., for a period required from the locking of the buckle 120 until the completion of moving-down of a wafer holder).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroaki Sano, Narukuni Nakada, Akihiko Iguchi, Yoshiyuki Yamada, Masashi Yanagawa, Takeshi Minatani
  • Patent number: 6701596
    Abstract: In order to improve a clamping and spreading device for the relative movement of two workpieces which have surfaces lying essentially parallel to a common plane, comprising a first holder, to which the first workpiece can be fixed, and a second holder, to which the second workpiece can be fixed, wherein the two holders are movable relative to one another, in such a manner that this can be used in a simple manner comfortable for the operator it is provided for the first holder and the second holder to be connected to one another via a guiding device so as to be displaceable and for the guiding device to comprise an actuating element which is mounted not only on the first holder so as to be movable but is also mounted on the second holder so as to be movable and via which a relative movement of the two holders can be actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Bessey & Sohn GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Gerhard Kloepfer, Karl Philipp
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6694568
    Abstract: A hinge that has a first mounting base for attachment to a first hinged object. The hinge also has first and second hinge members pivotally connected together. The first hinge member and the first base are configured and dimensioned for cooperatively positioning and aligning the first hinge member in a plurality of mounted positions along the base length. At least one first locking member is associated with the first hinge member and the first base for locking the first hinge member to the first base in one of the mounted positions. The hinge may also be segmented. A positioning tool may be connected to at least the first base with an attachment portion and configured for positioning the first base and attachment portion on a first hinged object at a predetermined distance from the second hinge member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Austin R. Baer
  • Patent number: 6691992
    Abstract: A tool for positioning and installing paneling sections, such as drywall sections, on underlying walls. The tool is initially secured to a wall, and comprises a vertical surface parallel to the wall and a downwardly angled surface. These surfaces, together with the wall, form a gap, which accommodates and temporarily holds a paneling section in place and therefore allows for easy installation and/or repositioning of the paneling. The downwardly angled surface forces the paneling section against the wall. The tool also may include a mounting surface with screw slots, these screw slots being capable of engaging and disengaging the screw to permit easy removal of the tool following use. A second angled surface may be positioned so as to guide the paneling into the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy Mungo
  • Publication number: 20040026577
    Abstract: A fixture includes a fitting portion fitting a long member, a mounting portion mounting a stationary portion which is shaped into a rectangular in cross section. The mounting portion includes a base portion and a first clamping portion and a second clamping portion. The first clamping portion and the second clamping portion extends in a first direction substantially perpendicular to an extending direction of the base portion from both ends of the base portion. The first and second clamping portion clamps the stationary portion therebetween. The clamping portions respectively has slip-out preventive portions. A projected portion is provided on an inner face of the first clamping portion. The second clamping portion is flexibly formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tsukasa Yasuda, Masahiko Nishihara