With Means To Relatively Array Or Arrange Holders Patents (Class 269/45)
  • Patent number: 8601670
    Abstract: A device used to secure a section of cable while one or more fiber is broken out from the cable. The device includes spaced apart clamp assemblies that hold a cable during the splicing process to protect the fairly delicate fibers within the sheathing. The disclosure also relates to a method of splicing using a clamp assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Sorenson, Scott Carlson
  • Publication number: 20130321017
    Abstract: A sensor detects a workpiece ready for transportation by means of an outwardly hanging contact arm which, when the workpiece is dropped or placed on a carrying frame, is pushed back into a groove in the body of the sensor and in that location gives a contact signal to start the transport, avoiding damage to the hanging arm or to its mechanism otherwise caused by the continuing weight or impact of the dropped or placed workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: Chao SHEN
  • Patent number: 8573577
    Abstract: A point-welding clamp structure for side by side tightly clamping and locating different plate-shaped metal pieces in their true relative positions so as to facilitate the point-welding operation. The point-welding clamp structure includes a body section and a base section for clamping the different metal pieces. A second adjustment section is disposed on the body section and a third adjustment section is disposed on the base section. By means of operating the second and third adjustment sections, the metal pieces with different thickness can be securely clamped and located by the point-welding clamp structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Jen Yung Yang
  • Publication number: 20130270758
    Abstract: A wire holding device configured to hold two wires together to establishing a connection. The connection may be made through soldering the two wires together. The wire holding device is also configured to be adjustable so that the wires can be held at different angles. The wire holding device can also be used to isolate a wire from a wire loom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: Service Solutions U.S. LLC
    Inventors: William W. Wittliff, III, Larry Betcher, Robert Kochie
  • Patent number: 8550442
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a workpiece holding device (101, 201) comprising a substantially spherical ball (107, 207) with means for releasably retaining a workpiece (901), a socket (102, 202) with a first ball-receiving surface (105, 205) and means for mounting said socket (102, 202) on a worktable (905), and means for releasably clamping said ball (107, 207) against said first ball-receiving surface (105, 205). The first ball-receiving surface (105, 205) is shaped on a ball-receiving element (104, 204) mounted moveable, within said socket (102, 202), along at least one axis in a plane substantially perpendicular to its clamping force. The invention also relates to a workpiece holding system comprising three workpiece holding devices (101, 201, 301), as well as to a method for using this workpiece holding system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Asco Industries
    Inventor: Gilles Philippe
  • Publication number: 20130241130
    Abstract: An assembly jig includes an upper jig frame that is provided above a longitudinal outer edge of a large structure, a lower jig frame that is provided below a longitudinal outer edge of the large structure, a connecting jig frame that connects the upper jig frame and the lower jig frame to each other, three supporting parts for supporting the lower jig frame from below, and a jig leg portion that is provided perpendicular to the direction in which the lower jig frame extends and parallel to a ground surface. The supporting parts are provided at three portions that are respectively located under two end portions of the jig leg portion and under the lower jig frame, and arrangement positions of the supporting parts provided at the three portions form a substantially triangular shape when seen from above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Ichiro Ozu, Kentaro Irie, Kazunori Kamiya, Daisuke Kinugasa, Junji Nagata, Sachio Takeyama
  • Patent number: 8511659
    Abstract: A holding jig including, a tilt angle with respect to a plane of a holding surface of a holding target defined as a holding tilt angle: a first holding portion having a holding tilt face with the holding tilt angle; a second holding portion connected to the first holding portion so as to slide toward the holding tilt face along a plane substantially parallel to the holding surface; and an elastic holding portion provided at a position of the second holding portion facing the holding tilt face that is elastically deformed towards the holding surface by the holding tilt face while being abutted to the holding tilt face, when the second holding portion slides toward the holding tilt face, to press and hold the holding target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiro Hirakawa, Satoshi Sakashita, Shinji Ishida, Hiroyuki Nagaoka
  • Patent number: 8496238
    Abstract: A tubular gripping apparatus has a jaw assembly that has a tubular-contacting surface at an end thereof, a drive yoke that has a tubular-contacting surface at an end thereof, an actuator connected to the drive yoke, and a locking mechanism interconnected to the drive yoke. The drive yoke is connected to the jaw assembly. The actuator moves the jaw assembly and the drive yoke such that the tubular-contacting surfaces thereof move radially inwardly for a substantially identical distance. The locking mechanism directs a load away from the actuator while the jaw assembly and the drive yoke grip the tubular. The locking mechanism has a cylinder yoke positioned around the piston-and-cylinder assembly, and a wedge assembly positioned adjacent the bearing bar and the cylinder yoke. The wedge assembly is suitable for contacting the cylinder yoke so as to prevent a movement of the cylinder yoke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
  • Patent number: 8496236
    Abstract: A clamp for linking a mounting rail to a flange of a beam is disclosed. The clamp includes a lower base, an upper base, a connecting web, and a T-shaped back-gripping element, which is disposed at the lower base for gripping a rail opening of the mounting rail from behind. In the upper base, a threaded hole, which corresponds to the lower T-shaped back-gripping element, is provided for a clamping screw, with which the flange and the mounting rail can be pressed against one another when the lower T-shaped element grips a rail opening of the mounting rail from behind. In the lower base, a threaded hole, which corresponds to an upper T-shaped back-gripping element, is provided for a clamping screw, with which the flange and the mounting rail can be pressed against one another when the upper T-shaped element grips a rail opening of the mounting rail from behind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Merhar, Ralph Lippuner
  • Patent number: 8490956
    Abstract: A fixture assembly for retaining a workpiece during a coining process includes a mounting block. The workpiece includes an airfoil portion, a platform, and feet extending from the platform opposite the airfoil portion configured to engage a retention slot in a gas turbine engine, each foot defining a substantially arcuate engagement surface. The mounting block includes a first portion having a slot defined therein between opposite first and second lateral edges and having an exposed front face, first and second retaining structures positioned adjacent to the first and second lateral edges, respectively. Each of the first and second retaining structures overhangs the slot and defines an engagement surface facing the slot, such that during engagement of the workpiece the substantially arcuate engagement surfaces of the feet contact the engagement surfaces of the first and second retaining structures to provide a pivotable engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Services PTE Ltd.
    Inventors: Nathan D. Korn, Mohamed Salleh Najib
  • Patent number: 8474806
    Abstract: A pipe gripping apparatus has a first jaw with a pipe-contacting surface at one end thereof, a second jaw having a pipe-contacting surface at one end thereof, a tongue having a pipe-contacting surface at one end thereof, and an actuator connected to the first and second jaws and to the tongue. The actuator serves to move the first and second jaws and the tongue such that the pipe-contacting surfaces thereof move radially inwardly simultaneously for a substantially identical distance. A first link pivotally connects the tongue with the first jaw. A second link pivotally connects the tongue with the second jaw. The first and second links extend angularly outwardly from the tongue. The first and second pivot points of each jaw have a distance unequal to a distance between the first pivot point and pipe-contacting surface of each jaw. The pipe-contacting surfaces can be elastomeric pads, toothed dies, or rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: T&T Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith J. Orgeron
  • Patent number: 8430385
    Abstract: In a wedge drive comprising a slider element receiving component, a movable slider element and a driver element, wherein sliding surfaces are provided between the slider element and the driver element, a dovetail-like or prism guide is provided between the slider element and the slider element receiving component. The slider element has a portion having a dovetail-like configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Harald Weigelt
  • Patent number: 8430386
    Abstract: In a wave linear motion mechanism (4) of a holding mechanism (1), those portions of a flexible screw (14) where first and second male screws (32, 33) are formed are elliptically deformed by first and second wave generators (12, 13) installed on an input shaft (11), and the first and second male screws (32, 33) are respectively partially engaged with first and second female screws (42, 44) of first and second circular nuts (15, 16). First and second holding members (5, 6) are mounted on the first and second circular nuts (15, 16), respectively. When the input shaft (11) is rotated by a motor (3), the first and second holding members (5, 6) are opened or closed depending on the rotation direction to release or hold an object (W).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Harmonic Drive Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Keiji Ueura
  • Publication number: 20130087961
    Abstract: A portable holder for supporting a firearm during cleaning, maintenance, adjustment, sighting and repair operations at a work station, the holder being adapted to support a portion of the firearm, the portable holder comprising: a base section adapted to be fixed to the work station in a substantially upright position; a threaded rod mounted to the base section in a substantially vertical orientation; and, one of a support head and a vise assembly affixed to the upper portion of the threaded rod; wherein the base section contains a substantially vertically orientated threaded aperture allowing the threaded rod to be rotated about its longitudinal axis into the threaded aperture of the base section to permit both mounting of the threaded rod to the base section and height adjustment of the threaded rod relative to the base section; the support head having a base and at least one flange extending upwardly from the base to receive a support tongue of a gun barrel cradle and means for pivotally connecting and loc
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Weissenborn
  • Patent number: 8408528
    Abstract: A clamping device has several clamping element receptacles each with a clamping element held by the clamping element receptacle. The clamping element receptacles have an inclination running obliquely to a clamping direction of the clamping device and by means of which the clamping element is guided. The clamping element has a clamping jaw support and the clamping jaw is connectable to the clamping jaw support. The clamping jaw engages in an undercut provided on the clamping jaw support and is additionally fixed by means of a positive fixing means to the clamping jaw support when it is connected to the clamping jaw support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hainbuch GmbH Spannende Technik
    Inventors: Hans-Michael Weller, Attilio Mandarello
  • Patent number: 8408527
    Abstract: A two jaw vise having a base extending in a longitudinal direction between two ends, a central fixed block and opposing jaws on either side of the central block. The opposing jaws being movable longitudinally and joined to the base for controlled movement longitudinally. The base including a base block extending longitudinally between the first and second ends and including first and second longitudinally extending rails. The first and second rails extending parallel to the base block and being spaced from the base block. The first and second rails at least partially forming the controlled movement of the jaws. The base further including first and second pluralities of vertically extending columns extending between the base block and the first and second rails, respectively. The base including at least one gap between adjacent columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Jergens, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Klingenberg, Harry P. Fuller
  • Publication number: 20130043631
    Abstract: A automatic truss jig setting system is disclosed that includes a table including a plurality of segments with a side edge of adjacent segments defining a slot. At least one pin assembly, and optionally a pair of pin assemblies, is movable independently of each other along the slot. Movement apparatus is provided for independently moving the pin assemblies along the slot. Each of the side edges of the segments associated with the slot defines a substantially vertical plane with a zone being defined between the substantially vertical planes of the side edges, and the movement apparatus is located substantially outside of the zone of the slot. The invention may optionally include a system for handling the obstruction of pin assembly movement, and a system for keeping track of the position of the pin assembly when the pin assembly has encountered an obstruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: CLYDE FREDRICKSON, MARK WISMER
  • Patent number: 8376340
    Abstract: The clamping fixture (1) consists of a workpiece pallet (2) and an actuator (27). The workpiece pallet (2) comprises at least two clamping jaws (4,5) for clamping in place a workpiece, while the actuator (27) is provided for opening and closing the clamping jaws (4,5). By means of the actuator (27) the clamping jaws (4,5) are material-elastically excursionable to the extent that a workpiece, after release of the actuator (27), can be locked in place by the material-elastic restoring force of the clamping jaws (4,5). Preferably the workpiece pallet (2) comprises a main body (3) provided with a slot (6) defined on both sides by the clamping jaws (4,5). The clamping jaws (4,5) are material-elastic excursionable by means of the actuator (27) transversely to the slot (6). The clamping jaws (4,5) are provided with fitted jaws (13, 14) which in relation to each clamping jaw (4,5) can be shifted transversely to the slot (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Erowa AG
    Inventor: Bruno Sandmeier
  • Patent number: 8376341
    Abstract: A support device for use with at least one of a stepladder, an extension ladder, and scaffolding, includes a base member manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined shape and a first predetermined size. A height adjustable rod member is operably connected at a first end thereof to such base member. A brace member has a first end and a second end, such first end of such brace member being perpendicularly engaged with such elongated rod member. A securing mechanism is operably disposed on such second end of such brace member for securing such brace member to such at least one of such stepladder, such extension ladder, and such scaffolding,. At least one support member is releasably engageable with such second end of such rod member for supporting a predetermined object thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Wendell E. Kocher
  • Patent number: 8342495
    Abstract: A portable holder for supporting a ski, snowboard, bicycle and firearm during cleaning, maintenance, adjustment, sighting and repair operations at a work station, the holder being adapted to support a portion of the ski, snowboard, bicycle and firearm, the portable holder comprising: a base section adapted to be fixed to the work station in a substantially upright position; a threaded rod mounted to the base section in a substantially vertical orientation; and, one of a support bead and a vise assembly affixed to the upper portion of the threaded rod; wherein the base section contains a substantially vertically orientated threaded aperture allowing the threaded rod to be rotated about its longitudinal axis into the threaded aperture of the base section to permit both mounting of the threaded rod to the base section and height adjustment of the threaded rod relative to the base section; the support head having a base and at least one flange extending upwardly from the base to receive a support tongue of one of
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Weissenborn
  • Patent number: 8276895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a clamping device comprising an elongate support structure carrying a fixed jaw and a movable jaw and an advancing clamping mechanism mounted on the support structure for advancing the movable jaw toward the fixed jaw in a longitudinal direction. The clamping device further comprises a transportation mechanism for convenient transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Warren Brown, Graham Gerhardt, Harry Szommer, Guojun Chen, Quangang Liu
  • Patent number: 8272612
    Abstract: A clip for holding an object on a supporting member comprises a holding clamp and an attaching clamp. The holding clamp has a pair of clamping members with oppositely bowed gripping portions and inwardly arched handles. The oppositely bowed gripping portions form together, when engaged, jaws for holding an object such as a cigar. The jaws are connected together for pivotal movement to cooperate with each other for clamping action upon actuation of their handles. At the juncture point of the jaws with the handles, the clamping members are provided with aligned, apertured supports for receipt of an axial binding post or rivet that extends through the apertures and for holding the clamping members together and in axial alignment. A spring, normally biasing the clamping members towards a closed position is looped around the post with its ends locked against the handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Edward Brian Thorpe
  • Publication number: 20120216406
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a locating assembly as a component of a locating table segment for positioning truss segments in a truss assembly system. The system generally includes a plurality of table segments aligned in parallel and adapted to position a series of locating blocks on a top surface of the system/table, where each block is a component of one of a plurality of locating assemblies in the system. The block positions collectively define an outer boundary of a support truss (e.g., as a roofing truss). Once the blocks are moved to their desired position, appropriately sized truss segments are placed within the block-defined boundary and fastened together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventor: Edward G. Joseph
  • Patent number: 8251330
    Abstract: The present teachings relate to a device configured to secure an instrument and to be removably mounted to a platform. The device can comprise a mounting base platform, a guide rod plate, and a securing means. The guide rod plate can be slidably secured to the mounting base platform, and the securing means can be configured to slidably move the guide rod plate with respect to the mounting base platform. The device can secure an instrument within, for example a firearm or a scope. The device can be mounted to a platform, for example, a camera tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Joshua Edward Stabler
  • Patent number: 8245375
    Abstract: A method for repairing a rotor of a turbine includes providing a rotor having a groove portion defined by a circumferential portion of the rotor. The circumferential portion of the rotor is removed to create an opening to provide access to the groove such that the opening, immediately adjacent the groove, is narrower than the groove. A guide block may be extended into a receiving slot separating a first protruding surface from a second protruding surface of the rotor such that a weld area slot of the guide block extends over at least a portion of the opening. The opening may be welded adjacent the guide block to close at least a portion of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Mechanical Dynamics & Analysis, Ltd.
    Inventors: James Harvey Coffey, Andrew Otto Ruehs
  • Patent number: 8246026
    Abstract: Disclosed are a tool indexer assembly, a computer numerically controlled machine that includes such tool indexer assembly, and associated methods. The assembly in one embodiment includes a turret and an indexer, the indexer including a portion that is movable with respect to the turret and that includes plural tool station configured to receive plural tool structures. The tool indexer is disposed on a facet of the turret, and, in some embodiments includes a table that is rotatable about an axis that is generally orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the turret. In another embodiment, a tool indexer includes a clamping mechanism having a source of pressurized fluid and a piston that is hydraulically actuated by the pressurized fluid and movable to a clamping position. The assembly further includes a conduit for delivery of the pressurized fluid proximal the tool structure as coolant fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Mori Seiki USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Hyatt, Abhijit Sahasrabudhe
  • Patent number: 8246025
    Abstract: A vise assembly includes a support rod standing on a base of a bench circular sawing machine, a first arm connected to the support rod and projecting frontward, a second arm of which a rear end portion is connected to a front end portion of the first arm in such a manner that the second arm is horizontally swingable and capable of being retained at any angular position, and a clamping rod disposed at a front end portion of the second arm, configured to be movable upward and downward, and capable of holding a workpiece placed in a cutting region. Optionally, the rear end portion of the second arm is movable upward and downward and capable of being retained at any vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventors: Goh Yamamura, Toshiyuki Kani
  • Patent number: 8191879
    Abstract: The present disclosure general relates to vise pads which provide accurate alignment of work pieces in a vise. The movement of internal members of these pads eliminates the need for manual adjustment such as with the use of a hammer to ensure alignment. The vise pads include wedge bars in combination with connectors which reduce friction and thus provide for longer life and efficient operation. In another embodiment, the vise pads include elastomeric bars which act as sealant to reduce entry of dust resulting from machining of a work piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Man Sung Jang
  • Patent number: 8181949
    Abstract: A micro-adjustable parallel bench vise includes a slide holder having a top dovetail rail, a vise body having a bottom dovetail groove coupled to the dovetail rail of the slide holder and holding a fixed jaw member, a screw holder slidably mounted in the top side of the vise body, a screw rod threaded into the screw holder and rotatable to move the screw holder relative to the vise body. When multiple vise bodies are mounted on the slide holder in parallel, they are micro-adjustable to hold a workpiece or multiple workpieces precisely in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Yi-Po Hung
  • Patent number: 8162301
    Abstract: A construction kit for a manipulating system, includes at least one first and one second element that are located parallel or at an angle to one another and are connectable to one another, at least one centering element that is located between the first and second elements, and at least one securing element for connecting the first element to the second element. The construction kit has a centering element, which has an outer circumferential surface that is provided with at least one form-locking means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Josef Dirschbacher
  • Publication number: 20120068394
    Abstract: A multiple vise system comprising at least two vise heads, each vise head comprising two jaws and a tightening screw and also comprising a supporting structure. The supporting structure is configured to support each vise head and allows the position of the vise heads to be adjusted according to at least two degrees of freedom with respect to each other. Position adjustment is achieved by means of track and slots mechanisms, swivels and telescoping poles. A number of secondary clamps are included to hold specially shaped objects such as printed circuit boards and to hold objects too large to be held by a vise head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher E. Baker
  • Patent number: 8122803
    Abstract: In a bench circular sawing machine as one example of a cutting machine, a vise assembly to be mounted to a guide fence includes a pressing part (e.g., an arm and a feed screw) configured to be capable of moving upward and downward and fixed at a desired height, in a position protrusively frontward of the guide fence, and a second pressing part (e.g., stopper plate) configured to be capable of moving along the guide surface upward and downward and fixed at a desired height. One of the pressing part and the second pressing part is selected for use in holding a workpiece down from above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Abe
  • Patent number: 8113497
    Abstract: The present invention includes a fixture for securing a work piece to a support surface at a machining workstation comprising a base attachable to the support surface and having at least one undercut edge, and, a work piece holder engaging the at least one undercut edge of the base, spaced apart from the support surface, and having moveable work piece attaching jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Kell Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Kellerson
  • Patent number: 8108978
    Abstract: A tooling apparatus for positioning end effector tooling for engagement with a workpiece to facilitate the performance of work operations on the workpiece. The apparatus includes an elongated rectangular tubular backbone member, a plurality of tubular collars positioned over and secured to the backbone member at predetermined longitudinally spaced locations along the backbone member, and a plurality of support structures secured to a side of one or more of the collars utilizing a plurality of fasteners engaging apertures in the collars and aligned apertures in the underlying backbone member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Norgren Automation Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Van Zile, III
  • Patent number: 8109494
    Abstract: A device for holding a workpiece, the device comprising a base, a first jaw member, a movable jaw member, and features which allow the movable jaw member to be moved in large increments relative to the first jaw member in addition to features which allow the movable jaw member to be moved in smaller increments. The device can include a drive member operably engaged with the base and the movable jaw member such that the operation of the drive member can move the movable jaw member in small increments. The movable jaw member can include a connection member, or claw, which can operatively engage the movable jaw member with the drive member. The connection member can be moved between first and second positions to disengage the movable jaw member from the drive member such that the movable jaw member can be slid relative to the first jaw member in large increments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Chick Workholding Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Warth
  • Patent number: 8083198
    Abstract: The present teachings relate to a device configured to secure an instrument and to be removably mounted to a platform. The device can comprise a mounting base platform, a guide rod plate, and a securing means. The guide rod plate can be slidably secured to the mounting base platform, and the securing means can be configured to slidably move the guide rod plate with respect to the mounting base platform. The device can secure an instrument within, for example a firearm or a scope. The device can be mounted to a platform, for example, a camera tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Joshua Edward Stabler
  • Patent number: 8066270
    Abstract: A vise jaw accessory that attaches to a conventional vise having a unique means of mounting above the vise, using a set of accessory jaw brackets, front and rear, with special mounting provisions for each, capable of supporting and positioning a set of accessory jaws that hold and stabilize a wide variety of irregularly shaped objects by means of opposing arrays of spring-loaded pins capable of individual deflection. The jaws are designed to be interchangeable to accommodate work types ranging from delicate to heavy-duty, as well as flat faces or other jaw face types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Robert P Siegel
  • Patent number: 8052130
    Abstract: A power-actuated vise apparatus includes a first jaw which is disposed on a base, and a second jaw which is supported by a carrier to be movable in a longitudinal direction by an angular force in an initial course. The carrier is further pressed by a linear force in a subsequent course to bring the second jaw into tightened engagement with a workpiece against the first jaw. A servo control mechanism is disposed to drive a torque transmitting member so as to transmit a torque force. A force coupler unit is configured to couple the torque transmitting member to the carrier and to take up the torque force from the torque transmitting member to result in generation of the angular force and the linear force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Jui-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 8047494
    Abstract: A tool for clamping an optical glass element includes a first arm, a second arm, a first clamping portion and a second clamping portion. The first and second arms are pivotally connected with each other and are rotatable relative to each other about a first axis. The first clamping portion is rotatably connected to an end portion of the first arm distal from the first axis and is rotatable relative to the first arm about a second axis. The second axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The second clamping portion is rotatably connected to an end portion of the second arm distal from the first axis and is rotatable relative to second arm about a third axis. The third axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The first and second clamping portions are configured for cooperatively clamping the optical glass element therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei-Yao Chang
  • Patent number: 8042240
    Abstract: A machine tool is provided with a machining unit, a base plate, an intermediate plate, a lower plate, and a pair of upper plates. The machining unit is fixed to a frame. The base plate is movable along a rail on the frame. The base plate moves a work piece toward and away from the machining unit. The intermediate plate is movable along the rail between the machining unit and the base plate. The intermediate plate pushes a reference plane of the work piece set on the base plate so that the work piece is positioned in a machining position. The lower plate is tiltably connected to the base plate and the upper plates are tiltably connected to the lower plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shingo Mitsui, Shugo Arakawa, Makoto Izumi
  • Patent number: 8020840
    Abstract: A versatile clamp which consists, at least in part, of at least one extendable arm, one fixed-length arm, pivotable clamping legs on the distal ends of the fixed-length arm and extendable arm, and locking means; wherein clamp adjustments, by the user, to the extendable arm and pivotable legs are retained by a locking action, which, prevents an inadvertent change of the extendable arm's effective length and the clamping legs' angular orientation from their set positions. The combination of a variable-length extendable arm and variable angular positioning of the legs enable a single versatile clamp to be used in a variety of clamping configurations. The versatile clamp may be easily made, without the use of any tools, to clamp onto thick and thin materials, alike, and to perform in applications which require an offset clamping operation. The versatile clamp may also feature one or more interchangeable clamping arm extensions and legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Herbert L. Hall, Jr., Ronald J Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8020843
    Abstract: A clamping fixture is provided for mounting work pieces. The clamping fixture includes a base, a supporting member, a covering member, and a positioning member. The supporting member and the positioning member are attached to the base. The work piece is clamped by the covering member and the supporting member. The positioning member is used for changing its position with respect to the base and fixedly mounted thereby for abutting against the work pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiao-Jie Wang
  • Patent number: 8002254
    Abstract: This patent pertains to a work piece clamping system with manual or powered clamping. Work piece locations of all three axis can be determined from the device. Various clamping devices can be included in the system. Single or multiple work pieces of various sizes and shapes can be clamped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Jack Leon Bayer, Scott Leon Bayer
  • Patent number: 7984895
    Abstract: A jaw assembly for a clamp is provided that comprises a jaw body having a jaw rotatably mounted on the jaw body. A locking member is movable between a first position where the jaw is locked relative to the jaw body and a second position where the jaw is unlocked relative to the jaw body such that it can rotate relative thereto. A clamp is also provided that incorporates the jaw assembly. In the unlocked position the jaw can pivot such that it can orient itself relative to the workpiece and in the locked position the jaw is fixed such that it can clamp the edges of a workpiece. A method of operating a clamp is also set forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Ralf Strauss, Patrick Barry
  • Patent number: 7971864
    Abstract: The method and the device for positioning a columnar structure which can promote properties of the resulting columnar structure, such as thermal shock resistance, isostatic strength, thermal stress, mechanical stress, and the like, and can exhibit improved productivity due to excellent drying performance of the coated areas by approximation of the central axis of the columnar structure and the central axis of the seat, thereby flattening the coating thickness when a coating is applied to the outer circumferential surface of the columnar structure, are provided. After causing the positioning fixture to abut on the seat mounting the columnar structure thereon, the columnar structure is moved from the seat using a positioning adjustment fixture placed opposing the positioning fixture, while keeping the columnar structure to abut on the positioning adjustment fixture at one or two points, thereby causing the columnar structure to abut on the positioning fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shigeki Kato
  • Patent number: 7971863
    Abstract: An exemplary clamping apparatus includes a supporting body, a plurality of clamping units installed on the supporting body, a PWM controller, and a detection unit. Each clamping unit includes a magnet, a clamping pin, an electrical coil, and a coil core mechanically engaged with the clamping pin. The magnet is configured for holding the clamping pin at a target position. The PWM controller is configured for supplying a pulse signal to the respective electrical coil of each clamping unit and for thereby creating a magnetic force causing a corresponding coil core and a corresponding clamping pin to, synchronously, move. The detection unit is configured for detecting a back electromotive force representative of the arrival to the target position of a clamping pin and signaling the PWM controller to stop supplying the pulse signal. A clamping process utilizing the clamping apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chien-Hung Chen, Chen-Hsing Cheng
  • Patent number: 7963568
    Abstract: An elbow clamp assembly structurally supports or replaces a connection between a main pipe and an elbow pipe. The elbow clamp assembly includes an upper clamp body and a lower clamp body securable on opposite sides of the main pipe in facing relation. The upper and lower clamp bodies are connected by a clamp bolt extendable through the main pipe. An elbow boss is securable to the elbow pipe, and a cross bolt is extendable through the elbow pipe and connected between the elbow boss and the clamp bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americans LLC
    Inventor: Grant Clark Jensen
  • Patent number: 7959142
    Abstract: Proposed is a clamping device for clamping pipes, particularly plastic pipes for welding on butt welding machines. A base part (10) and a clamping lid (11) that is removable from the same or can be pivoted away from the same each have, to receive a pipe, a receptacle channel (13, 14) with circle segment-shaped cross section, whose circle segment radius is matched to the pipe radius. To provide for clamping also pipes with a smaller radius, at least one clamping insert is provided that is fixable in the receptacle channel (13) of the base part (10) and consists of an insert base part (23) and an insert clamping lid (25) that is removable from the same or can be pivoted away from the same, whose receptacle channels (30, 31) have a circle segment-shaped cross section with a smaller circle segment radius than that of the base part (10). Accordingly, when clamping smaller pipes the usually very heavy clamping lid (11) does not need to be provided with inserts and does not need to be pivoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Armin Dommer and Dieter Dommer
    Inventor: Martin Dommer
  • Patent number: 7950637
    Abstract: An adjustable holding apparatus is provided, including a base unit, a clapping unit, and at least two stopping units. The base unit includes a surface on which the electronic device can be placed. The clapping unit is partially embedded in the base unit, and can move in the direction parallel to the surface of the base unit. The clapping unit includes a clapping part. The clapping part is located on one side of the clapping unit vertically. The stopping units are located at the lower part of the base unit with a distance separating the two stopping units. Each stopping unit includes a stopping part located at the upper part of stopping unit, and is off-center. The clapping part of the clapping unit and the stopping parts of the stopping units are located on the opposite sides of the surface of the base unit to form a three-point clapping on the device placed on the surface. The clapping units and the stopping units can be adjusted to accommodate a wide range of objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Eagle Fan
  • Patent number: 7934711
    Abstract: An angle bracket formed of a block of material. It has an elongated upper arm member formed adjacent the top end of a connecting member and an elongated lower arm member connected to the bottom end of the connecting member. The rear surface of the respective arm members make a 90 degree angle with each other. The top surface of the respective arm members have a swivel pad recess and a plurality of locking channels extend radially outwardly therefrom for receiving the arm of a clamp. An alternative embodiment angle bracket is capable of adjustable angles. It has an L-shaped upper clamp arm that is pivotally connected to an L-shaped lower clamp arm. Each of these arms have a V-shaped support clamp portion formed at their free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Harry Wong