Inserted Holder Movable Relative To Work Backup Patents (Class 269/49)
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Patent number: 11879486Abstract: A flexible shoulder pin module includes a barrel having an annular head portion, a cylindrical body portion, and a through-hole extending from a top surface of the body portion to a bottom end of the head portion; and a shoulder pin having a shaft portion and a shoulder portion formed thereon. The through-hole includes a first portion adjacent to the top surface of the body portion, and a second portion having a greater diameter than the first portion. The shaft portion is insertable through the first portion into the second portion. The shoulder portion is configured to adjustably extend above the top surface of the body portion to clamp a panel thereto. A compressible device is configured to be disposed around the shaft portion and secured by a stopper panel, which is coupled to the shaft portion and placed adjacent to the head portion within the second portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2021Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Assignee: QUANTA COMPUTER INC.Inventors: Chun Chang, Hsin-Chieh Lin, Yao-Long Lin
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Patent number: 11667420Abstract: The invention relates to a tray sealer comprising a gripper device with two gripper arms, a supply device for unsealed trays, a removal device for sealed trays and a sealing device. Each gripper arm can comprise a coupling device that is configured to hold a first tray gripper for supplying trays into the sealing device and a second tray gripper for removing trays from the sealing device.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2020Date of Patent: June 6, 2023Assignee: MULTIVAC SEPP HAGGENMÜLLER SE & CO. KGInventors: Andreas Mader, Wolfgang Negele, Christoph Wagner
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Patent number: 11608848Abstract: A single side temporary fastener (SSTF) capable of maintaining a clamping force in a material stack subject to material creep or adjunct extrusion during clamp up processes is disclosed. The SSTF comprise a rotationally constrained but freely translatable collet body that is disposed within an auxiliary structure such as a fastener housing. A fastener comprises the aforementioned collet body, which at least partially translates within the aforementioned auxiliary structure, and further comprises a threaded screw for rotationally engaging with the collet body, which by way of an antirotation means associated therewith and with the auxiliary structure, is rotationally constrained but is free to axially translate. Constant clamping pressures are made possible in such embodiments by the inclusion of at least one biasing element between compression force transmitting elements and/or assemblies of the fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2021Date of Patent: March 21, 2023Assignee: Centrix Inc.Inventor: Travis McClure
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Patent number: 11390974Abstract: An embroidery frame includes an inner frame formed like a hoop and an outer frame that has a separation section at which the outer frame is separated so as to form a first end portion and a second end portion that oppose each other. The outer frame is configured to nip an embroidery object, in collaboration with the inner frame, from outside the inner frame. The embroidery frame also includes an opening-closing mechanism configured to adjust a clearance of the separation section. In the embroidery frame, the opening-closing mechanism has a connection shaft that connects the first end portion and the second end portion to each other and also has a manipulation member that is rotatably mounted on the connection shaft with a center of rotation being positioned at the first end portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2020Date of Patent: July 19, 2022Assignee: JANOME CORPORATIONInventors: Shotaro Matsubara, Ushio Yokoyama
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Patent number: 10661932Abstract: The invention relates to a tray sealer comprising a gripper device with two gripper arms, a supply device for unsealed trays, a removal device for sealed trays and a sealing device. Each gripper arm can comprise a coupling device that is configured to hold a first tray gripper for supplying trays into the sealing device and a second tray gripper for removing trays from the sealing device.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2016Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Assignee: Multivac Sepp Haggenmüller SE & Co. KGInventors: Andreas Mader, Wolfgang Negele, Christoph Wagner
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Patent number: 10639773Abstract: A garbage disposal installation tool can support a garbage disposal at an installation position beneath a sink drain. The tool includes a hook configured to hang the garbage disposal from the hook and a suspender configured to suspend the hook beneath a connection point with the sink. The suspender can have an elastic segment that is extended during use to impart a biasing force that urges the garbage disposal toward a bottom portion of the sink. The suspender can also be a flexible suspension line that includes a plurality of connectors at spaced apart locations for connecting the suspender to the sink at respective locations. The tool can include a brace configured to rest on the sink over the drain opening. The brace can include a slot that defines the connection point and is arranged to be in communication with the drain opening when the brace rests on the sink.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2018Date of Patent: May 5, 2020Assignee: Fundi, LLCInventors: James Edward Gibson, Davis James Gibson, Stuart S. Coutchie
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Patent number: 10533594Abstract: A temporary fastening device comprises a collet and mandrel connected to a temporary fastener body. The device comprises a first float cap, a second float cap, a third float cap, and a temporary fastener body which may be axially connected. The lateral clearance between the collet and a first aperture defines a first radially extending float region. The lateral clearance between the second float cap and the first float cap define a second radially extending float region. The collet and temporary fastener body may radially translate within the first and second radially extending float regions.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2017Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Assignee: Zephyr Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: Paulo Cesar Pajuelo Lopez
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Patent number: 9446469Abstract: An installation for welding top plugs on to nuclear fuel rods comprising a device for axially holding the rod and setting it in rotation and a weld chamber, where the device comprises a gripper and structure to close the gripper on the rod, where the structure comprise a pusher to apply an axial force on to the gripper, a linear actuator of axis parallel to the lengthways axis of the device, a yoke translationally secured to the pusher, and able to rotate freely around a fixed axis orthogonal to the lengthways axis which is not secant with the latter, where the yoke is connected and able to pivot relative to the linear actuator around a fixed axis parallel to the orthogonal axis such that the linear actuator causes the yoke to rotate around the first orthogonal axis and causes the pusher to slide, closing the gripper on the rod.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Assignee: Areva NCInventors: Marc Fischer, Jean-Marc Boyer
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Patent number: 8651785Abstract: One embodiment of a quick release fastener insertable into apertures in platen tables and other surfaces, having at one end a threaded recess (30) to receive studs or bolts, and having a transversely displaceable member (60) to secure the fastener in the aperture. The displaceable member (60) is moved between the inoperative and operative positions by a tool engageable operating rod (80).Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Erik William Lander
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Patent number: 8561974Abstract: A pin clamp assembly having a housing, locating pin, at least one finger, a drive rod and an actuator is provided. At least a portion of the locating pin may be extendable exterior of the housing. The finger is located adjacent the locating pin and movable relative thereto. The drive rod is movable and is engagable with the finger to move the finger between clamped and unclamped positions. The actuator drives the locating pin and the drive rod. Movement of the locating pin and drive rod is linear only and no rotational movement of the locating pin and drive rod is employed to move the finger between clamped and unclamped positions.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: PHD, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth A. Steele, Bruce D. McIntosh, Steven M. Moilanen, William E. Davenport, William D. Givens, Parag Patwardhan
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Patent number: 8534651Abstract: A temporary attachment device for securing a number of parts or sheets together has an elongated hollow body with three, slidable and spreadable prongs spaced apart 120°, protruding from an open end of the elongated body over a substantially Y-shaped spreader held in the elongated body and extending through the open end to more evenly and accurately maintain the spacing between and spread the three prongs. The three prongs and spreader more accurately fill pilot holes, after insertion into the openings and the prongs have outwardly facing heads, lobes or noses to more securely clamp at least two sheets of material together. The device may include an internal spring and a movable plunger to allow the prongs to be operated by the pliers, or may include a threaded shaft and a nut secured to the shaft to allow operation of the device by turning the nut and the shaft to slidably move the three prongs.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Ino Scapa, Thomas H. Lomas
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Riveting screw tack and use thereof for temporarily fixing a boring grid to elements to be assembled
Patent number: 8448929Abstract: The invention relates to a riveting tack (50) to be introduced into coaxial openings of at least two elements to be assembled, and comprising a hollow cylindrical body (51), a rod (53) passing through the hollow body and partially provided with an external thread (52a), a nut (54) mounted on the threaded end (53a), two half-clips (56) fixed to the rod (53) and comprising hooking lips (57) on the ends thereof, and a spacer (58) arranged between the two half-clips (56), the rod/half-clip set being axially mobile along the spacer (58) between a first position wherein the hooking lips (57) are radially close, and a second position wherein the two half-clips (56) are retracted inside the hollow body (51) and radially distanced from each other. The invention is characterized in that the set formed by the half-clips (56) and the spacer (58) is, in the cross-section thereof, in the form of a near-perfect circle having a diameter identical to the inner diameter of the openings.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Lisi AerospaceInventors: Philippe Prot, Marc Roussy -
Patent number: 8413970Abstract: A pin clamp assembly having a body, a locating pin, an actuator, a drive rod, a cam, and a finger is provided. The locating pin is coupled to the body and movable between extended and retracted positions. The drive rod is movable relative to the locating pin. The cam is movable relative to the locating pin and the drive rod. The finger is coupled to the drive rod and movable between extended and retracted positions. Actuation of the actuator causes the drive rod to move which extends the finger without moving the locating pin. Also, continued retraction of the drive rod after the finger has extended causes the cam to move out from the slot in the body to allow the locating pin to retract.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: PHD, Inc.Inventor: Bruce D. McIntosh
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Patent number: 8382083Abstract: A clamping apparatus has a shaft (2) mounted in a housing element (1). The shaft (2) is rotated about an axis of rotation. One end of the shaft (2) is connected to a drive mechanism (3) disposed in the housing element (1). The other end of the shaft (2) is connected to an actuating element (4), in a torsion-proof manner. The shaft (2) implements a rotational and translational movement to the actuating element (4). The shaft (2) is mounted so that it can be displaced perpendicular to the axis of rotation in a guide element (5) connected to the drive mechanism (3). The guide element (5) is rotatably mounted in the housing element (1).Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2011Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventor: David Martin
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Patent number: 8376336Abstract: A pin clamp assembly is provided that includes a housing, a locating pin, and a finger. The locating pin is movable with respect to the housing. The locating pin can also selectively entirely retract inside the housing. A finger is supported by the locating pin and retractable and extendable into and out of the locating pin. The finger is also extendable out of the locating pin when at least a portion of the locating pin supporting the finger is exterior of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: PHD, Inc.Inventor: Bruce D. McIntosh
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Publication number: 20120279390Abstract: A piston may include a piston upper part and a piston lower part. The piston upper part may be welded via a contact surface with the piston lower part forming a cooling duct therebetween. The cooling duct may define an inlet opening and an outlet opening extending from the piston lower part in the cooling duct. A welding bead may be formed within the cooling duct at each of the inlet opening and the outlet opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventor: Sascha-Oliver Boczek
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Patent number: 8303784Abstract: A bandoleer of article carriers includes a carrier band, and a plurality of carrier racks connected with a bottom edge of the carrier band each by means of a connecting plate and arranged at regular intervals. Each carrier rack shows a substantially inverted-V shape and has a pair of elastic arms extending downward from two ends of a bottom edge of the connecting plate and gradually inclined away from each other. Two distal ends of the elastic arms protrude oppositely to each other to form a pair of hook portions. Upper portions of two opposite side edges of the connecting plate oppositely protrude sideward to form two blocking portions. Lower portions of the two opposite side edges of the connecting plate oppositely protrude sideward and then are bent towards two opposite directions perpendicular to the plane of the connecting plate to form two lying-L shaped resisting portions.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2011Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chih-Lin Yang
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Patent number: 8246029Abstract: A clamp device includes an annular grip member capable of being inserted into an hole in a workpiece and of gripping the inner circumferential surface of the hole, a clamp rod having a tapered shaft portion fitted inside the grip member and engaged therewith, a hydraulic cylinder capable of axially advancing and retracting the grip member and the clamp rod, and a clamp main body member. The clamp device is provided with seating surfaces formed upon the clamp main body member, on which the workpiece is seated, and a poor clamping detection mechanism that detects poor clamping, in the state in which the grip member is driven in its clamping direction by the hydraulic cylinder via the clamp rod, and the workpiece is in its state of being seated upon the seating surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Pascal Engineering CorporationInventor: Takayuki Kawakami
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Patent number: 8132801Abstract: A positioning and clamping apparatus clamps a panel material by moving a clamp arm to a clamping position while the panel material positioned by a locating pin is supported by a workpiece supporting face of a workpiece support. An extruding member having a plurality of extruding rods protruding from the workpiece supporting face is slidably provided in the workpiece support, and the panel material is detached from the locating pin since the extruding member causes a tip face of the extruding rods to be moved to a carry-out position by the hollow piston. The extruding member is caused to protrude by a spring force up to a standby position located between the carrying-out position and the workpiece supporting position, thereby being pushed down up to the workpiece supporting position by the panel material.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Koganei CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Miyashita, Satoshi Miyazaki, Masakazu Tezuka
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Publication number: 20100096790Abstract: The present invention provides an improved structure of a sleeve for labeling tools and fasteners. There is a sleeve body, containing a tool coupling end, an acting end and a cylinder. There is an identification ring, which is provided with a through hole for sleeving and positioning onto the cylinder of the sleeve body. A locating spring is provided with a connecting end and a positioning end. As the locating spring is positioned when the identification ring is sleeved onto the sleeve body, the identification ring has identification and positioning functions, so the sleeve with streamlined members has two additional efficacies: ease of identification and positioning, thereby helping to reduce the cost, and improve the applicability and industrial benefits.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventor: Jui-Min HUANG
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Publication number: 20090315236Abstract: A pin clamp assembly is provided that includes a housing, a locating pin, and a finger. The locating pin is movable with respect to the housing. The locating pin can also selectively entirely retract inside the housing. A finger is supported by the locating pin and retractable and extendable into and out of the locating pin. The finger is also extendable out of the locating pin when at least a portion of the locating pin supporting the finger is exterior of the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: PHD, INC.Inventor: Bruce D. McIntosh
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Patent number: 7556188Abstract: A clamping device includes a backing member having an upper face pressing against two work pieces having a welding gap therebetween. A rod extends through the backing member and has an exposed upper portion extending through a narrower portion of the welding gap into a wider portion of the welding gap. An elastic element is mounted between a bottom face of the backing member and an abutting portion on a lower portion of the rod to bias the backing member to press against the work pieces. The upper portion includes a hooked section having a first width smaller than a width of the narrower portion and a second width perpendicular to and larger than the width of the narrower portion. The rod is turnable to a position in which the second width of the hooked section presses against the work pieces under the action of the elastic element.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2007Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Inventor: Mar Lon Chen
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Publication number: 20090096149Abstract: A positioning and clamping apparatus clamps a panel material by moving a clamp arm to a clamping position while the panel material positioned by a locating pin is supported by a workpiece supporting face of a workpiece support. An extruding member having a plurality of extruding rods protruding from the workpiece supporting face is slidably provided in the workpiece support, and the panel material is detached from the locating pin since the extruding member causes a tip face of the extruding rods to be moved to a carry-out position by the hollow piston. The extruding member is caused to protrude by a spring force up to a standby position located between the carrying-out position and the workpiece supporting position, thereby being pushed down up to the workpiece supporting position by the panel material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2008Publication date: April 16, 2009Applicant: Koganei CorporationInventors: Yukihiro Miyashita, Satoshi Miyazaki, Masakazu Tezuka
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Publication number: 20080315477Abstract: A locating pin assembly is provided. The assembly includes a body and a cylinder assembly for moving a ram in a reciprocally linear manner. A bearing is coupled to the ram and configured to engage a bearing wedge to reduce “play” between the ram and the assembly. Illustratively, the bearing and bearing wedge reduce or substantially eliminate this “play” to prevent axial rotation of the ram.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: PHD, INC.Inventors: Clinton L. Alexander, Parag Patwardhan, Bruce D. McIntosh
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Publication number: 20080315478Abstract: A pin clamp assembly having a body, a locating pin, an actuator, a drive rod, a cam, and a finger is provided. The locating pin is coupled to the body and movable between extended and retracted positions. The drive rod is movable relative to the locating pin. The cam is movable relative to the locating pin and the drive rod. The finger is coupled to the drive rod and movable between extended and retracted positions. Actuation of the actuator causes the drive rod to move which extends the finger without moving the locating pin. Also, continued retraction of the drive rod after the finger has extended causes the cam to move out from the slot in the body to allow the locating pin to retract.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: PHD, Inc.Inventor: Bruce D. McIntosh
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Patent number: 7448607Abstract: A pin clamp assembly having a housing, locating pin, at least one finger, a drive rod and an actuator is provided. At least a portion of the locating pin may be extendable exterior of the housing. The finger is located adjacent the locating pin and movable relative thereto. The drive rod is movable and is engagable with the finger to move the finger between clamped and unclamped positions. The actuator drives the locating pin and the drive rod. Movement of the locating pin and drive rod is linear only and no rotational movement of the locating pin and drive rod is employed to move the finger between clamped and unclamped positions.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: PHD, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth A. Steele, Bruce D. McIntosh, Steven M. Moilanen, William E. Davenport, William D. Givens, Parag Patwardhan
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Patent number: 7370856Abstract: A clamp includes a body, a lead pin moveable relative to the body and an actuator supported by the body. The actuator is axially moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. The actuator includes a camshaft drivingly coupled to the lead pin. Axial movement of the camshaft causes the lead pin to rotate between a first positioned aligned with a first longitudinal axis and a second position aligned with a second longitudinal axis laterally offset from the first longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: BTM CorporationInventors: Edwin G. Sawdon, Michael D. Miller, Brian D. Petit
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Patent number: 7311301Abstract: A hook pin unit for use in a manufacturing environment. The hook pin unit includes a pin having an orifice through a surface. A base having an orifice with the pin arranged within the orifice of the base. A hook arranged within the pin and moveable between a first and second position.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventors: Xu Liu, Douglas D. Colby
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Patent number: 7300042Abstract: A temporary fastener tool (20) for establishing and maintaining compressive alignment between at least two parts, each having an aperture through which the fastener tool is inserted. The tool includes a spindle (120) having a first and second end wherein a bulbous element (126) extends from the first end. The spindle engages collet (100) that includes a plurality of finger elements (106).Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventor: Travis D. McClure
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Patent number: 7182326Abstract: A pin clamp assembly is provided which includes a housing, a locating pin, a body, a twist pin, and a cam pin. The locating pin extends from the body. Both the body and the locating pin include longitudinally extending cavities contiguously disposed therein. The body also includes longitudinally extending and opposed slots, each disposed from opposed exterior surfaces of the body and into the cavity. At least a portion of the locating pin and the body is located in a bore disposed through the housing. The twist pin is disposed in the longitudinally extending cavities of the locating pin and body. The twist pin includes a longitudinally extending cavity disposed therein, and longitudinally extending and opposed cam slots disposed from opposed exterior surfaces of the twist pin and into the cavity therein. The cam pin is coupled to the housing within the bore and extending there across.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: PHD, Inc.Inventors: Bruce D. McIntosh, Kenneth A. Steele, Matthew R. Williams
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Patent number: 7146717Abstract: The present invention features a method and apparatus wherein a component in a component placement machine is rejected during the placement cycle and subsequently retained in a component rejection station. A component is imaged and the image processed using an automated vision system. The image processing determines whether the component is placeable based upon a comparison of the component image to preprogrammed mechanical parameters for the component. A non-placeable component is rejected into a reject station with means to retain the component. Because a component can not escape the reject station, there is no degradation of the placement machine performance.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2004Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Universal Instruments CorporationInventor: Jack A. Kinback
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Patent number: 7108255Abstract: A locking mechanism for a locating and clamping fixture is provided, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a drive pin that is linearly positionable along a first axis. The drive pin comprises a driver portion and a driven portion, wherein the driver portion is coupled to a piston of the fixture and the driven portion is coupled to a clamping arm of the fixture. The driver portion of the drive pin further comprises an annular groove, wherein one or more rollers are associated with the annular groove of the drive pin and a body of the fixture. The one or more rollers are operable to generally maintain a position of the clamping arm upon a loss of a driving force to the driver portion via an interface between the one or more rollers, the drive pin, and the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Zaytran, Inc.Inventors: Theodore S. Zajac, Jr., Brian K. Thompson
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Patent number: 7029000Abstract: A clamp and method for locating a clamping workpiece in predetermined location are disclosed. The clamp includes a clamp body, a driving member, a workpiece-locating pin and a clamping member. The driving member is moveable in a first linear direction at least partially inside the clamp body. The workpiece-locating pin is moveable in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and at least partially externally projects from the body. The clamping member is moveable relative to the workpiece-locating pin in the first direction when moving between a retracted position and a clamping position.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: BTM CorporationInventors: Brian D. Petit, Edwin G. Sawdon
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Patent number: 7017895Abstract: A locating pin is mounted on a hollow post member in such a manner that a slit of the locating pin is communicated with an interior of the post member. A clamp arm is axially movably received in the slit and has a hook-shaped head exposed to an upper portion of the slit and a base portion exposed to the interior of the post member. The clamp arm is axially movable between a clamp position wherein the hook-shaped head is projected outward from the upper portion of the slit and an unclamp position wherein the hook-shaped head is retracted in the upper portion of the slit. A guard structure is installed in the slit of the locating pin to isolate the interior of the post member from the interior of the slit while permitting the axial movement of the clamp arm in the slit.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tsuyoshi Sakamoto
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Patent number: 6913254Abstract: The subject invention provides a locating assembly for centering and securing a work piece. The locating assembly includes a body. The body defines an internal cavity and an opening from the cavity to the exterior of the body. A locating pin is disposed in the cavity and extends along an axis out of the opening. An actuator moves the locating pin rectilinearly along the axis. A pair of fingers are supported by the locating pin and move radially into and out of the locating pin, transversely to the axis. A central post rotates in response to the rectilinear movement of the locating pin. A dowel extends from an end of the central post into a slot in the finger. The central post moves the dowel in an arcuate path through the slot to radially move the finger simultaneous with the rectilinear movement of the locating pin.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: Welker Bearing CompanyInventors: Joseph M. Pavlik, Douglas J. Holt, Robert C. Adams, Jr.
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Patent number: 6903316Abstract: An apparatus and method for induction hardening a workpiece can first include fastening a workpiece in a clamping assembly. The clamping assembly is provided with a plurality of hardness testing devices. Alternatively, one or more hardness testing devices are provided directly to the induction hardening head. The induction hardening head is moved over the workpiece to harden a portion thereof, such as an edge. Then, a series of hardness measurements are taken with the plurality of hardness testing devices to allow an operator or controller to adjust the input to the induction hardening head. This allows the workpiece to be provided with a predetermined hardness profile within a desired tolerance.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Forward TechnologyInventor: Brian Kivisto
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Patent number: 6902160Abstract: The present invention is directed to a locating and clamping fixture for locating and clamping a workpiece, wherein the fixture comprises a generally hollow body and a floating clamping arm. A first cam follower is located within the body, and a drive pin comprising a second cam follower and having a first axis associated therewith is moveable within the body along the first axis. The floating clamping arm comprises a first cam surface, a second cam surface, and a gripping portion, wherein the first cam surface and the second cam surface are operable to respectively engage the first cam follower and the second cam follower. Upon an application of a driving force by the drive pin, the clamping arm is operable to rotate and linearly translate with respect to the body via a translational movement of the drive pin along the first axis, wherein the gripping portion of the clamping arm is operable to extend over the workpiece and to clamp the workpiece to the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Zaytran, Inc.Inventors: Theodore S. Zajac, Jr., Brian K. Thompson
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Patent number: 6902159Abstract: A sealed pin locating and clamping apparatus includes a body, an actuator moveably supported by the body, a pin mounted to the body and a clamping member drivingly coupled to the actuator. The actuator includes a first rod having an internal cavity and a second rod rotatably positioned within the internal cavity. A portion of the pin is positioned within a cam slot formed in the second rod and the second rod rotates in response to linear movement of the first rod to position the clamping member.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: BTM CorporationInventors: Edwin G. Sawdon, Brian D. Petit
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Patent number: 6827345Abstract: A wedge-lock fastener is provided in which the distance by which the tongue protrudes beyond a workpiece may be controlled. The wedge-lock fastener may include a shank and an adjustable spacer member mounted upon the shank and adapted for controlled lengthwise movement relative thereto so as to adjust the position of the tongue with respect to the workpiece. Correspondingly, a method for installing a wedge-lock fastener is provided in which the respective forward ends of the tongue and tongs are inserted through aligned holes defined by two or more workpieces and the tongs are then retracted to clamp the workpieces together with the respective forward ends of the tongue and the tongs being disposed completely within a counterbore defined by a workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Matthew L. Anderson, William J. Koch
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Publication number: 20040217529Abstract: The subject invention provides a locating assembly for centering and securing a work piece. The locating assembly includes a body. The body defines an internal cavity and an opening from the cavity to the exterior of the body. A locating pin is disposed in the cavity and extends along an axis out of the opening. An actuator moves the locating pin rectilinearly along the axis. A pair of fingers are supported by the locating pin and move radially into and out of the locating pin, transversely to the axis. A central post rotates in response to the rectilinear movement of the locating pin. A dowel extends from an end of the central post into a slot in the finger. The central post moves the dowel in an arcuate path through the slot to radially move the finger simultaneous with the rectilinear movement of the locating pin.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventors: Joseph M. Pavlik, Douglas J. Holt, Robert C. Adams
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Patent number: 6786478Abstract: The subject invention provides a locating assembly for centering and securing a work piece. The locating assembly includes a body. The body defines an internal cavity and an opening from the cavity to the exterior of the body. A locating pin is disposed in the cavity and extends along an axis out of the opening. An actuator moves the locating pin rectilinearly along the axis. A pair of fingers are supported by the locating pin and move radially into and out of the locating pin, transversely to the axis. A central post rotates in response to the rectilinear movement of the locating pin. A dowel extends from an end of the central post into a slot in the finger. The central post moves the dowel in an arcuate path through the slot to radially move the finger simultaneous with the rectilinear movement of the locating pin.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Welker Bearing CompanyInventors: Joseph M. Pavlik, Douglas J. Holt, Robert C. Adams, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040164475Abstract: A wedge-lock fastener is provided in which the distance by which the tongue protrudes beyond a workpiece may be controlled. The wedge-lock fastener may include a shank and an adjustable spacer member mounted upon the shank and adapted for controlled lengthwise movement relative thereto so as to adjust the position of the tongue with respect to the workpiece. Correspondingly, a method for installing a wedge-lock fastener is provided in which the respective forward ends of the tongue and tongs are inserted through aligned holes defined by two or more workpieces and the tongs are then retracted to clamp the workpieces together with the respective forward ends of the tongue and the tongs being disposed completely within a counterbore defined by a workpiece.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2003Publication date: August 26, 2004Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Matthew L. Anderson, William J. Koch
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Patent number: 6755407Abstract: A clamp for securing a tool to a multi-piece panel assembly. The clamp is especially suited for applications where access to only one side of the panel assembly is available. The clamp uses a blind temporary fastener that is secured to the panel assembly to hold the independent panels of the assembly together. The clamp includes an sleeve member that is attached to the temporary fastener and a socket that attaches to the sleeve member and is axially adjustable therewith. The clamp attaches to the temporary fastener without modification of the temporary fastener and clamps the tool to the panel assembly. The clamp is adjustable for a variety of tool thicknesses and can be removed without removal of the temporary fastener.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Vincent T. Olson, Scott T. Ulinski
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Patent number: 6736385Abstract: A tool (1) for centering and gripping a part (10) to be secured, having a through passage (10a) and sized for the tool (1), includes a guide member (3), at least one gripping element (4) mounted on the guide member (3) and a body (2) enclosing the drive and guide element of the tool (1). The guide member is mounted on a securement support having a support part (6) provided with a passage (7). The guide member (3) projects at the free end of the support part (6), the free end constituting the reference surface or support surface (9) of the part (10) to be secured whilst the body (2) of the tool (1) is gripped against a surface of the support opposite the support part (6).Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Inventor: Michel Beffrieu
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Patent number: 6698736Abstract: A clamping and locating fixture includes a hollow body, a pin mountable to the body, a locking arm positionable within the body locatable between two positions and a drive pin moveable within the body to engage the locking arm. A workpiece can be directed to a clamping position by the guide pin. The pin includes an aperture allowing a locking projection of the locking arm to extend therethrough and over a workpiece to clamp the workpiece for a processing operation. The locking projection can be retracted through the aperture while the workpiece is being located or is being removed. The drive pin can be moved within the body to engage a cam follower of the locking arm. The drive pin can be supported during movement by one or more rollers mounted in the body. The drive pin can include a pin body and a pin member moveably associated with one another to selectively define the position of a cam surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Progressive Tool & Industries Co.Inventors: Michael R. Dugas, Velibor Kilabarda, Fred Zarna, Greg Bildson, William J. Maybee
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Patent number: 6648316Abstract: The device includes a hollow pilot equipped with at least two retractable hooks and driven by a piston provided with a groove, the whole assembly being mounted on a supporting nosepiece. The piston is locked in clamping position by a three-point system actuated by a pneumatic cylinder. The device assembly is integrated in a housing. The device is designed to equip fixed or mobile posts for assembling vehicles, or clamping arms.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Inventor: Patrice Vouland
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Patent number: 6591468Abstract: A sink lifting device for aiding in the removal and installation of sink assemblies. The sink lifting device includes a base member designed for extending over a sink, a lifting assembly that is coupled to the base member such that the lifting assembly is couplable to a sink for removal and installation of the sink.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventor: John Q. Douglas
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Patent number: 6557229Abstract: A tool to assist in the installation of a waste disposer beneath a kitchen sink includes a central, threaded shaft with a flared bottom end supporting a lift plate which is cocked on the shaft so that it may be inserted into the top of the waste disposer. The tool further contains a threaded stabilizing plate which mates with the threaded shaft, and which is inserted and retained in the top of the sink strainer, so that the shaft and lift plate extend through the sink strainer and into the waste disposer beneath. When the lift plate is straightened on the shaft, and the shaft rotated relative to the stabilizing plate, the waste disposer is drawn up until it engages the adapter on the sink strainer, to which it attaches.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2002Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Inventor: Rudolph V. Ricci
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Publication number: 20020135116Abstract: A clamping and locating fixture includes a hollow body, a pin mountable to the body, a locking arm positionable within the body locatable between two positions and a drive pin moveable within the body to engage the locking arm. A workpiece can be directed to a clamping position by the guide pin. The pin includes an aperture allowing a locking projection of the locking arm to extend therethrough and over a workpiece to clamp the workpiece for a processing operation. The locking projection can be retracted through the aperture while the workpiece is being located or is being removed. The drive pin can be moved within the body to engage a cam follower of the locking arm. The drive pin can be supported during movement by one or more rollers mounted in the body. The drive pin can include a pin body and a pin member moveably associated with one another to selectively define the position of a cam surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Inventors: Michael R. Dugas, Velibor Kilabarda, Fred Zarna, Greg Bildson, William J. Maybee
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Patent number: 6439560Abstract: A clamp jig has a positioning pin provided at the tip of a cylindrical member, and a clamp arm is mounted in a slit formed in this positioning pin, so as to be able to swing and so as to be able to axially advance and retreat. A reciprocating shaft is connected to the clamp arm by a connecting pin, and a spring force is applied to this reciprocating shaft in a retreating direction by a compression coil spring. A plunger 35 brought into contact with the reciprocating shaft is mounted in a drive housing so as to be able to axially reciprocate, and a female screw member driven by a motor is thread-connected to a male screw member secured to this plunger. Accordingly, it is made possible to reliably perform positioning and clamping, of a member to be fixed, and unclamping thereof by a low-cost motor.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2001Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Koganei CorporationInventors: Ken Sawada, Akio Nakata, Masakazu Tetsuka