Clamp Couple Element With Fastening Means Patents (Class 269/91)
  • Patent number: 6543323
    Abstract: The vice device includes a vice holder 24 composed of two side parts connected together at a given angle and, in these two side parts of the vice holder 24, there are respectively formed two holes 24a, 24b which extend at right angles to their associated side parts. By selectively switching these holes 24a, 24b over to each other, the pressing direction of a vice plate 26 can be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Hayashizaki, Hiromi Ozawa, Eisaku Oka
  • Patent number: 6536755
    Abstract: A latch for securing a wafer to a clamp plate. The latch may include a bearing that couples a wheel to a horizontal shaft. The horizontal shaft is adapted to rotate relative to the clamp ring so that the wheel secures the wafer. The bearing minimizes the amount of particles generated by the moving components of the latch that may contaminant the wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Discreet Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Ovadia Meron, Dmitriy Genkin
  • Patent number: 6524174
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes a rotatable spindle, a head detachably connected to the spindle, and a clamp for clamping outer circumferential surfaces of the spindle and the head to one another so that the head may be driven by the spindle. The clamp has an annular clamping frame sized to encircle the outer circumferential surfaces of the spindle and the head, a projection disposed on one end of the clamping frame, a lever pivotally connected to the other end of the clamping frame, and a fastener pivotally connected to the lever and configured to hook over the projection. Once the fastener is hooked over the projection, the lever is pivoted to force the ends of the annular clamping frame together and thereby produce a clamping force that secures the spindle and head to one another. The clamp can be manipulated easily and with a simple motion to clamp the head to the spindle. Also, the parts of the clamp generate little mechanical friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Gi-Sung Bae, Min-Gyu Kim
  • Publication number: 20020167122
    Abstract: A plurality of latches are employed for detachably holding a semiconductor wafer to a ring support during processing. Each latch is rotatably mounted on a post which is secured to the ring so that it can move to engage and disengage the wafer, alternately clamping and releasing it from the ring. Each latch has two opposed rollers, one to engage and disengage the wafer and the other to engage the ring. The latches should be freely rotatable into and out of engagement with the wafer. The ring usually has two pairs of opposed dimples such that each roller is in registration with each of the opposed dimples of each pair when it rotates from the engaged to the disengaged position and visa versa. The dimple in registration with the roller when engaged the wafer is sufficiently deep so that the roller does not touch the ring when clamped to the wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Ovadia Meron, Dimitriy Genkin
  • Patent number: 6406229
    Abstract: A clamp for securing an oversized work-piece to a milling machine table using the T-slot on the front surface of a Bridgeport-type milling machine table. The clamp, when attached to the T-slot, extends beyond the table and over it where it can be tightened down on a work-piece to hold it to the top surface of the table. The clamp includes a heel block and a clamp block held in spaced relation by a separation bolt and a tightening bolt. To mill an oversized work-piece, the clamp is inserted into the T-slot and then the separation distance of the clamp block to the heel block is adjusted by rotating the clamp block around the separation bolt until the separation distance is slightly wider than the thickness of the work-piece. The tightening bolt is then used to tighten the clamp onto the work-piece. The nose end of the heel block can be shaped to match the profile of the T-slot or can be modified to allow the nose to be rotated into the slot by rounding its corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Alpha Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. Derrick, Scott J Echerer
  • Patent number: 6402130
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an improved clamping apparatus is employed. The clamping apparatus includes a clamp body having a first and a second end, an attachment member having a first and second end, the first end of the attachment member connected to the first end of the clamp body, a clamping member having a first end and a second end, the clamping member slidably connected to the second end of the clamp body, a locking mechanism for locking the clamping member, and a spring biasing the locking mechanism towards a locking position. Preferably, the clamping member includes a pad disposed at the second end of the clamping member. Further, the clamping member may include a knob disposed at the first end of the clamping member. The clamping member may be a threaded rod. In addition, the locking mechanism may include a locking button that engages the threaded rod. This locking button has an upper surface. This upper surface may abut the clamp body upon rotation of the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Price, William R. Stumpf, Scott M. Livingston
  • Patent number: 6279887
    Abstract: A toggle lever clamping device has a bearing head (15) arranged on an actuating means (2), on which head a pivot unit (16), which comprises a clamping arm (22), may be moved between a release position and a clamping position. An abutment face (48) is provided on the bearing head (15) for presetting the clamping position of the clamping arm (22), such abutment being in the path of pivoting of the pivot unit (16) and serving for presetting the clamping position by cooperating with the pivot unit (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Uwe Glasenapp, Thomas Lichtenberger
  • Patent number: 6219904
    Abstract: Automated device for maintaining and assembling wooden elements on a pressing table. The device comprises a mobile gantry adapted to be movably mounted to a pressing table. The mobile gantry has at least one motor driven pressing jack and a rail. A motor driven motoring unit is slidably mounted to the rail. A plurality of spindles are arranged on the rail. A plurality of saw logs are mounted to the spindles, each saw log having a ring-shaped groove, an elastic element, and a bore for receiving a spindle. The plurality of spindles constitute a magazine for storing the plurality of saw logs. The motoring unit includes a vertically mobile rod comprising one of a single rod and a double rod. The vertically mobile rod comprises a lower end having a clamp adapted to remove a saw log from a spindle. The clamp comprises a U-shaped plate having an opening which is adapted to engage the ring-shaped groove of a saw log, the clamp comprising an elastic element adapted to engage the saw log.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Christian Debanne
  • Patent number: 6139000
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an improved clamping apparatus is employed. The clamping apparatus includes a clamp body having a first and a second end, an attachment member having a first and second end, the first end of the attachment member connected to the first end of the clamp body, a clamping member having a first end and a second end, the clamping member slidably connected to the second end of the clamp body, a locking mechanism for locking the clamping member, and a spring biasing the locking mechanism towards a locking position. Preferably, the clamping member includes a pad disposed at the second end of the clamping member. Further, the clamping member may include a knob disposed at the first end of the clamping member. The clamping member may be a threaded rod. In addition, the locking mechanism may include a locking button that engages the threaded rod. This locking button has an upper surface. This upper surface may abut the clamp body upon rotation of the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Price, William R. Stumpf, Scott M. Livingston
  • Patent number: 6076816
    Abstract: A toggle lever tightening device for use in the automobile industry in the assembly of automobile bodies. Toggle lever tightening devices secure one workpiece relative to a second work piece to locate the pieces for permanent connection. This toggle lever tightening device prevents deformation of the grip head and its seatings. The design of this toggle lever tightening device allows the grip head and cylinder to be constructed of light metal alloys without experiencing damaging deformation of the grip head. A very simple bearing arrangement for this toggle lever tightening device has made possible an embodiment in which a single tightening arm is provided on one side of the grip head. This single tightening arm design is highly desirable in the automobile industry. However, it results in an unfavorable introduction of forces. The pivot shaft that is driven by the toggle lever arrangement and functions to drive the tightening arm is axially and radially seated in the grip head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: I.S.I. International S.A.
    Inventor: Josef-Gerhard Tunkers
  • Patent number: 6070334
    Abstract: A retaining bracket is provided for securing a carpenter's square thereto in a desired fixed position relative to the bracket, such that the carpenter's square can be used to mark surfaces of construction materials to be cut. The retaining bracket includes a pair of locking elements captured by and loosely carried in a channel within the bracket and having arm portions positioned outside of the bracket and pins extending through a slot in the bracket connecting the interior and exterior portions of the locking elements, and the arm portions are provided with locking screws which are advanced into contact with the square once the square is properly positioned, to thereby securely fasten the square to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Donald C. Pretsch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6024350
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an improved clamping apparatus is employed. The clamping apparatus includes a clamp body having a first and a second end, an attachment member having a first and second end, the first end of the attachment member connected to the first end of the clamp body, a clamping member having a first end and a second end, the clamping member slidably connected to the second end of the clamp body, a locking mechanism for locking the clamping member, and a spring biasing the locking mechanism towards a locking position. Preferably, the clamping member includes a pad disposed at the second end of the clamping member. Further, the clamping member may include a knob disposed at the first end of the clamping member. The clamping member may be a threaded rod. In addition, the locking mechanism may include a locking button that engages the threaded rod. This locking button has an upper surface. This upper surface may abut the clamp body upon rotation of the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Price, William R. Stumpf, Scott M. Livingston
  • Patent number: 5984292
    Abstract: An adjustable clamping device. A base or a channel is attached to either the top or side of a work table. The base has a threaded aperture for engaging one end of a threaded rod upon which several adjustable clamping bars are positioned. The clamping members are each movable to an adjusted clamping position on the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Louis J. Troha
  • Patent number: 5918868
    Abstract: A fixturing device, usable with various fixturing components as a universal modular fixturing system, has a slot and a shaft, the slot and the shaft intersecting and having a common plane of symmetry, the fixturing device having a plurality of transverse bores intersecting the slot and the shaft, perpendicular to the plane of symmetry. The fixturing device is used according to one or more of three clamping techniques. The first clamping technique is back-clamping in which a workpiece having a threaded recess is clamped by a bolt from the back of the slot. The second clamping technique is relocatable clamping in which a clamp support supporting a clamp clamping a workpiece is displaceable along the shaft. The third technique is lever-arm clamping in which a lever arm, pivotally mounted on a pin located in one of the transverse bores, is rotated to clamp a workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Techcom Technical Computerized Fixturing Ltd.
    Inventor: Asher Bruchman
  • Patent number: 5913509
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an improved clamping apparatus is employed. The clamping apparatus includes a clamp body having a first and a second and, an attachment member having a first and second end, the first end of the attachment member connected to the first end of the clamp body, a clamping member having a first end and a second end, the clamping member slidably connected to the second end of the clamp body, a locking mechanism for locking the clamping member, and a spring biasing the locking mechanism towards a locking position. Preferably, the clamping member includes a pad disposed at the second end of the clamping member. Further, the clamping member may include a knob disposed at the first end of the clamping member. The clamping member may be a threaded rod. In addition, the locking mechanism may include a locking button that engages the threaded rod. This locking button has an upper surface. This upper surface may abut the clamp body upon rotation of the threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Price, William R. Stumpf, Scott M. Livingston
  • Patent number: 5884903
    Abstract: A powered clamp and gauging apparatus performs as a clamp with moveable members which generate a toggle action, or performs as a gauging device having a pair of moveable members which mechanically abuts against each other to maintain, at least temporarily, a locking position of an arm even when actuating fluid pressures have been decreased or lost. In another aspect of the present invention, a lost linear motion device is provided in order to maximize arm unlocking forces. A uniquely configured slide, crank and hub are provided in a further aspect of the present invention. Methods of operating and assembling the present invention apparatus are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: BTM Corporation
    Inventor: Edwin G. Sawdon
  • Patent number: 5860570
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for holding down a drum (16) includes a base plate (42), a pair of mounting plates (60) fixedly secured to the base plate (42) located on opposite sides of the base plate (42), and a pair of hold-down plates (52,54). Each of the hold-down plates (52,54) are movably mounted upon one of the mounting plates (60). Each of the hold-down plates (52,54) is engageable with a peripheral surface (90) of the drum (16) resting on the base plate (42) to center the drum (16) relative to the apparatus (10). Each of the hold-down plates (52,54) also has a tapered leading edge (74) engageable with the drum (16) as the drum is inserted between the mounting plates (60). The apparatus (10) also includes a pair of cantilever extensions (100,102) fixedly attached to each of the mounting plates (60) that extend inwardly toward the drum (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Erhan Ilksoy
  • Patent number: 5857668
    Abstract: An apparatus for pressing and holding wooden boards flat in straight alignment and to correct any warpage of the board to achieve a true cut with a radial arm saw, dado cutter, or other such wood cutting equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: William R. Berry
  • Patent number: 5768830
    Abstract: A support for construction material provides for the temporary support of elongate materials during construction projects or storage of the materials. The device comprises a generally U-shaped frame having a flat, planar base and opposite parallel planar arms extending upwardly and generally normal to the base. Each arm includes an elongate slot therein, with an axle having a series of rollers thereon, adjustably installed in the slots. One of the arms includes an additional roller at the uppermost end thereof, with its axis normal to the adjustable rollers extending between the arms. The opposite arm includes at least two nail slots, adapted to receive partially driven nails so the device may be temporarily suspended during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin J. Kelly
  • Patent number: 5722647
    Abstract: A workpiece holder, particularly adapted for holding eyeglasses lenses (L), comprises a support (12) on which there are arranged two clamps (14, 17, 117) for clamping each a portion of a lense. Each clamp defines an axis (A) which is substantially perpendicular to the portion of lense clamped thereby. Each clamp is positionable and lockable with said axis (A) oriented in any direction at the interior of an ideal cone (A1 - A2) having a vertex through which the said axis (A) is passing. Positioning means (3, 4, 40) are provided for displacing the said support (12) along a horizontal plane with respect to a fixed tool (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventors: Armando Rattaro, Camillo Rattaro, Pierino Boldrini
  • Patent number: 5537927
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for aligning flexible printing plates and for accurately drilling pin register holes therein includes a three-way adjustable table top assembly which can be selectively adjusted in X and Y directions and rotated about an axis. A pneumatic clamp is positioned on the table top assembly for clamping a pre-marked flexible printing plate to be drilled in place thereon. A movable stereomicroscope viewer is slidable above the table top assembly to view the flexible plate for position adjustment via the adjustable table top assembly. A drill assembly is also positionable over each location at which a pin register hole is to be drilled. The drill assembly includes a movable hollow core drill bit surrounding a stationary rod. Once the flexible plate is aligned via the viewer, the drill assembly is sequentially positioned above the flexible plate at each point to be drilled with a pin register hole and operated to drill each hole therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Tension Envelope Corporation
    Inventors: Michael E. Rogovein, Philip A. Tyrrell, Richard Kranz
  • Patent number: 5516087
    Abstract: In order to improve a clamping device, in particular for clamping workpieces on a machine table, comprising a housing securable in position on a support surface of a carrier by means of an anchoring element, a clamping element movable relative to the housing and having a clamping arm projecting from the housing and a clamping spindle rotatably mounted on the housing for moving the clamping element, such that the housing can be secured in place on the support surface in as simple a manner as possible, it is suggested that a fastening element supported on the housing be movable relative to the housing from a first position into a second position for securing the housing in position, that in the first position the housing be detachable from the support surface and that in the second position the fastening element secure the housing in position on the support surface by acting on the anchoring element with a fastening force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: Bessey & Sohn GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Clemens Schmid, Gerhard Kloepfer
  • Patent number: 5462600
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in coating the surfaces of closely spaced channels in a workpiece is provided. In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus is provided which facilitates coating the microchannels in an ink jet printhead with insulative coating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Compaq Computer Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Pies
  • Patent number: 5408737
    Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for stabilizing a work piece of ring configuration on a base. The apparatus has a first ring fixed to the base and frictionally positioned within the work piece. A second ring has a portion within the other end of the work piece and a portion covering the other end of the work piece. A plurality of hold downs are connected to a base via hydraulic cylinders and are positioned about the work piece and have arms with rollers attached thereto. In response to actuation of the cylinders, the rollers are automatically swung into position over the second ring and the rollers forcibly urge the second ring and work piece in a direction toward the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Assignee: Solar Turbines Incorporated
    Inventors: Desmond Mailey, Jose J. Rodriguez, Jerry P. Fregoe, Curtis L. Stevens, Frank M. Dettmers, Sr., Glenn L. Brown, Gary L. Kitzer, James G. Miller, Martin J. Hilbrands, Gary L. Vander Stel
  • Patent number: 5392676
    Abstract: A device for trimming wallpaper, including champs for fastening the device to a flat surface, a rod for holding a roll of wallpaper, an adjustable stop to accommodate rolls of different widths, and a retainer to hold the wallpaper on a cutting surface adjacent to a slot in the cutting surface which accommodates a knife edge to allow the wallpaper to be severed from the roll with a straight edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: Donald R. Drury
  • Patent number: 5320320
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus for use in screen printing operations. The clamping apparatus has an angle iron having an upright back, a lower lip bound to the upright back, and an upper lip bound to the upright back. At least one clamp slide assembly is slidably disposed on and along the upper lip of the angle iron. The clamping apparatus is pivotally secured to a silkscreen table in order for readily engaging a silkscreen frame. A method for positioning a printing screen over a screen table which includes clamping with a pair of clamp slide assemblies a silkscreen frame of a printing screen against the lower lip of the angle iron. The silkscreen frame may be easily elevated as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Carl D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5318284
    Abstract: A table, particularly an orienting and welding table comprises a table plate having a surface provided with uniformly distributed cylindrical throughgoing openings arranged in a grid with a uniform distance therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Demmeler Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ludwig Demmeler, Johannes Demmeler
  • Patent number: 5284331
    Abstract: A woodworking bench and related fixtures providing an integrated system of bench features, vises, dogs, panel clamps, hold-downs and fixtures that cooperate to provide a highly flexible workpiece holding and clamping apparatus able to accommodate a wide variety of shapes and sizes of workpieces and hold such workpieces in an enormous variety of positions during numerous different operations. Two substantial slabs provide the bench top surface and carry a rectilinear pattern (in rows and files) of round, vertical bench dog holes. The rectilinear pattern of round bench dog holes with specific, equal spacing between holes, and similar holes in the edge of the top, facilitate great flexibility in clamping using conventional round dogs in the bench top holes and corresponding dogs in bench edge-mounted, or end-mounted vises. Such holes also accommodate other clamping, fixing and hold-down fixtures that contribute to flexibility and utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1994
    Assignee: Lee Valley Tools Ltd.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Lee, John S. Lynn, Francis A. McLean, Edwin C. Tucker, Lloyd Sevack, Gary W. Lacoste, Timothy C. Frank, Michel Perrier, Michael T. O'Malley
  • Patent number: 5247846
    Abstract: A quick-disconnectable device with a screw piece, a first threaded part and a second threaded part, the threaded of which fits with the first threaded part, wherein the screw piece has a straight guide for the first threaded part, and the screw piece has a radial bearing and an axial bearing for the second threaded part, the longitudinal direction of the straight guide and the axis of rotation of the radial bearing are arranged parallel to one another, the two threaded parts are guided at a distance at which the mutual engagement of the two threaded parts is possible, the second threaded part has an external thread, and is equipped with a recess which completely interrupts the engagement of the threads at least in a specific rotary position An embodiment as a compact light and simple quick-acting clamping means for variable clamping geometry for articles to be measured on automatic 3D-measuring machines or as a spindle drive with high-speed disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Assignee: Wild Leitz GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus-Dieter Grossmann, Bruno Tews, deceased, Holger S. Tews, heir
  • Patent number: 5246217
    Abstract: A clamping element (4) for the clamping of workpieces on a clamping surface (1b) with receiving recesses distributed over its surface in accordance with a predetermined division (Ra) has on its clamping body at least two attachment openings (9) spaced from each other by the division spacing (a) and at least two clamping holes (10) which are in each case distributed along at least one circle around a longitudinal axis (8) of the clamping element (4) in order to achieve high reproducibility with a great variety of possible uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Saurer-Allma GmbH
    Inventor: Waldemar Brot
  • Patent number: 5193790
    Abstract: A clamp to hold a workpiece on a machine work table provides a body carrying an elongate fastening beam extending therefrom for adjustable positioning over a portion of the workpiece. The beam pivotally carries a vertically depending holder arm in a first outer end portion and is carried at a second inner end in the clamp body structure for both axial and vertically angulated motion. The clamp body is releasably fastenable to the machine work table and defines a vertically extending channel to receive the fastening beam. A vertically adjustable support pin extends horizontally through the channel to support the second beam end and the body carries a fastening screw depending into the channel spacedly distant toward the first support beam end to contact the medial portion of the support beam and create downward force thereon to hold a workpiece supported on the machine work table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: John T. Flaten
  • Patent number: 5190271
    Abstract: A hold down clamp for a workpiece comprising a plate-like base having planar top and bottom surfaces, and forward, rearward and side edges. An abutment means extends transversely of the upper surface near the rearward edge thereof. A vertical clamping screw support of inverted L-shape is mounted centrally of the base side edges between the abutment means the base rearwad edge. The free end of the support contains a vertical internally threaded bore. A vertical clamping screw is engaged in the bore and supports a clamping head with a clamping surface adaped to cooperate with the base top surface. The clamp may be removably affixed to a work surface or shifted in free floating manner there along. The clamp base bottom surface has an axial slot, extending from the base forward edge through the base rearward edge, for use when the clamp is to be shifted in guided fashion along a power tool table having a guide slot. A T-guide is provided comprising upper and lower bars joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Henry C. Otterbein, II
  • Patent number: 5167405
    Abstract: A fast change set-up device for work on work supports wherein work blanks can be mounted to a number of work supports prior to machining and the upper work support can be quickly attached to a lower work support and locked thereto by rotating a handle so that the next piece can be machined. The shaft carries four cams for driving spring biased bolts which engage in grooves formed in locking pins and the cams have an indentation for locking the bolts in the grooves to hold the upper and lower work supports together so that machining can occur. After machining the upper work support can be removed from the lower work support and a second upper work support can be mounted to machine another workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Midaco Corporation
    Inventor: Michael P. Cayley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5160124
    Abstract: A pillar (3) is projected upwardly from a central portion (2) of a base plate (1), and at least two work receiving portions (4) (4) are disposed in the opposite sides of the peripheral portion of the base plate (1). A plurality of pressing arms (5) (5) are projected radially from the pillar (3) toward the work receiving portions (4) (4), and these pressing arms (5) (5) are supported horizontally pivotally by the pillar (3). A pressing hydraulic cylinder (6) is disposed in the projecting portion of the pressing arm (5) so as to face downwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kosmek
    Inventors: Sohei Yamada, Hideaki Yokota
  • Patent number: 5108242
    Abstract: A vertical support post mounts a drill head thereon, wherein the drill head is reciprocatable relative to the post to effect drilling of holes within paper stacks mounted upon a reciprocating table orthogonally oriented relative to the post positioned below the drill head. A reciprocating table is mounted upon a plurality of rollers, wherein the table may be positioned relative to the rollers utilizing a plurality of adjustable stop members operative in association with a stop guide mounted to a rear edge flange of the table. A clamp member is pivotally mounted over the table to secure a paper stack thereon for a drilling procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Inventor: Charles B. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5013015
    Abstract: A swing clamp for clamping work pieces to a fixture is mechanically actuated. The clamp has a body with a base. The base has a threaded hole in it. A mandrel is carried by the body. A clamp member is mounted to one end of the mandrel. A shaft extends through the mandrel and engages a threaded hole in the base. A translational device changes rotational movement of the shaft to linear movement of the mandrel. A guide causes the mandrel to swing about 90 degrees during this linear movement. This releases and actuates the clamp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: General Dynamics Corporation
    Inventor: John D. Fatheree
  • Patent number: 4993255
    Abstract: A bending-press tool can be fixed instantaneously on its tool-holder by means of a device which permits positioning and extraction of the tool on the front side of the machine without any need to displace adjacent tools. The device comprises a clamping member pivotally mounted on a longitudinal shaft and having a shouldered portion, the heel of the tool which has a suitable shape being intended to engage on the shouldered portion. After engagement, the tool is thrust from its position of equilibrium towards the rear, causes rotational displacement of the clamping member and of a locking cam which has the effect of applying the clamping member on the tool in the work position. In order to unclamp the tool, it is only necessary to withdraw the cam. The tool then remains engaged and can be extracted by pivotal displacement in the forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Amada
    Inventor: Jean P. H. Treillet
  • Patent number: 4991279
    Abstract: A clamp for a fuel injection nozzle of an internal combustion engine includes a beam element which is forked at one end for engagement with surfaces on the nozzle and at its other end engages a reaction member. Intermediate its ends the beam element is apertured to receive a threaded member engaged with the cylinder head of the engine whereby the nozzle is clamped in a bore in the cylinder head. The beam element is formed from strip material and is dimensioned so that the force which can be applied to the nozzle is limited by the elastic deformation of the beam element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: Lucas Industries Public Limited Company
    Inventor: David J. Gaskell
  • Patent number: 4898370
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus comprises a base block to be mounted on the top surface of a bed, a cylindrical clamp base having a male screw on the outer peripheral surface thereof and mounted on the base block for up-and-down motion, a clamp piece threadedly fitted on the male screw of the clamp base and adapted to press an object of clamping on the bed, and a lift mechanism for moving the clamp piece and the clamp base up and down, with respect to the base block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Saito, Yasuo Kazama
  • Patent number: 4876826
    Abstract: Grinding and polishing apparatus includes a block having a paddle to which an element to be ground and polished is secured, and the paddle is removably secured to the block. The block includes angular faces to allow the block to be brought into relatively close proximity to a viewing element, such as an optical microscope. The block also includes leveling elements for adjusting the orientation of the paddle and of the element to be ground and polished as secured to the paddle, and an adjustable element for varying the pressure of the element being ground and polished against an abrasive element. A removable paddle is secured to the block, and the element to be ground and polished is secured to the paddle. The apparatus also includes holding elements for holding a plurality of blocks on an abrasive element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1989
    Inventor: Anthony J. Denboer
  • Patent number: 4875667
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for clamping a template or the like to a workpiece. The apparatus (10) comprises a bar (12) and a clamp (14). The bar (12) has a rectangular cross-sectional shape and includes a first end (22), a second end (24), a top surface (26), a bottom surface (28) and a first end face (30). The clamp (14) comprises an L-shaped rod (34) having a first leg (36) and a second leg (38). The bar (12) has an internal axial bore (32) sized and shaped to receive the first leg (36) in slidable engagement therein. A set screw (48) retains the rod (34) within the bar (12). A clamp member (40) is slidably mounted to the second leg (38). In accordance with the method, the clamp member (40) is first adjusted to a predetermined height above the workpiece (98). The apparatus (78) is then braced against the work surface (96) by means of the clamp member (88) bearing against the bottom side (102) of the work surface (96).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1989
    Inventor: Randal D. Schafer
  • Patent number: 4848761
    Abstract: The present invention relates to work piece holders for use with scroll saws having reciprocating blades. The device is made of integrally molded resinous material having a relatively low coefficient of friction. A first generally planar portion of the holder engages the work piece behind the blade and is integral with opposed forwardly projecting spaced apart feet which engage the work piece on the sides and in front of the blade. A second generally planar portion is spaced away from the first planar portion and adapted to be secured to a stationary arm of the saw. A resilient bridging section couples the first and second planar portions and has a unique ribbed construction which provides the necessary strength while still accommodating a degree of flexure relative to the rigid upper planar portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Verle L. Rice
    Inventor: Kristen L. Rice
  • Patent number: 4836519
    Abstract: An improved, inexpensive machinist's clamp apparatus for holding metal workpieces during milling, drilling, shaping or the like is provided. The improved clamp apparatus has a generally "U"-shaped holder removeably affixed to the rear end of a step clamp to be used in conjunction with a step block. Through the "U"-bend is threadingly inserted a thumbscrew having a resilient endpiece affixed thereon, such as a spring or a rubber pad. When the step clamp is adjusted to the desired height on the step block, the thumb-screw is advanced such that the resilient end thereof is forced into tight holding contact with the rear vertical face of the step block, resulting in a combination of step clamp, step block and holder which is rigidly attached so that, when a workpiece is removed, the step clamp does not fall away from the step block, thereby avoiding unnecessary time delays in re-setup. Also provided is a new step block base holder for affixing the step block to the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Inventor: Michael J. Duncan
  • Patent number: 4832324
    Abstract: A fixture includes a base having an index surface. The index surface has a reference hole, 360 positioning holes formed about the reference hole and angularly equally spaced from each other at an interval of one degree, and a plurality of fastener holes formed through the base around the positioning holes. A reference post is inserted removably into the reference hole for abutment of a workpiece thereon. A positioning post is inserted removably into selected one of the positioning holes for abutment of the workpiece thereon. A press member is inserted removably into selected one of the fastener holes and is adjustable to press the workpiece against the indexing surface of the base for holding the workpiece on the base, so that a diagonally provided part of the workpiece to be cut is in parallel with the movement direction of a movable work table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Inventor: Yan H. Chern
  • Patent number: 4828240
    Abstract: A workpiece is clamped to the table of a machine tool by a toggle clamp or edge clamp supported for rotation by the head portion of a stud threaded into a hole within a member secured to the table. The member may comprise a column or a column extender each having a frame with precisionly attached plates having X-Y grid patterns of alternating threaded holes and precision bores. A grid or base plate with an X-Y pattern of holes and bores may also receive an angle plate which also has an X-Y grid pattern of threaded holes and precision bores in addition to counterbores and precision angle positioning bores which receive pins for precisely locating the angle plate at a selected predetermined angle relative to the grid or base plate. The workpiece may also be secured to T-slot plates which are retained in precision locations on a base plate to define precision T-slots for receiving T-nuts. An adjustable radius locator system provides for precisely locating on the base plate a workpiece having two precision holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: TE-CO.
    Inventors: Francis S. Longenecker, Kevin J. Moeder, Jeffrey L. Wolff
  • Patent number: 4787177
    Abstract: A toolholder for use in connection with the grinding of a conventional flat tipped screwdriver into a screwdriver having a hollow-ground tip configuration. The toolholder has a first section with a recess for receiving the round shank of the screwdriver, a second section having an inclined surface with respect to the top surface of the first section and an abutment ledge against which the front end of the screwdriver is located during grinding. A clamping lever is also provided, having a bottom located recess which lies over the shank of the screwdriver and, with suitable fastening mechanism, holds the screwdriver in place and against the abutment ledge for grinding. The angle of incline defined between the top surface of the first section and the flat bottom of the toolholder is slightly more than 1/4 of the angle defined by the tip of the screwdriver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Inventor: Carmine J. Scalia
  • Patent number: 4711437
    Abstract: A workpiece is clamped to the table of a machine tool by a toggle clamp or edge clamp supported for rotation by the head portion of a stud threaded into a hole within a member secured to the table. The member may comprise a column or a column extender each having a frame with precisionly attached plates having X-Y grid patterns of alternating threaded holes and precision bores. A grid or base plate with an X-Y pattern of holes and bores may also receive an angle plate which also has an X-Y grid pattern of threaded holes and precision bores in addition to counterbores and precision angle positioning bores which receive pins for precisely locating the angle plate at a selected predetermined angle relative to the grid or base plate. The workpiece may also be secured to T-slot plates which are retained in precision locations on a base plate to define precision T-slots for receiving T-nuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Assignee: TE-Co.
    Inventors: Francis S. Longenecker, Kevin J. Moeder, Jeffrey L. Wolff
  • Patent number: 4699363
    Abstract: A framing jig for fabricating subassemblies for use in the construction of buildings. The jig has a supporting base defining a horizontal work surface, an end alignment stop defining a vertical transverse plane, a plurality of stanchions defining a vertical longitudinal plane, and a plurality of levers carried by the stanchions. Two or more parallel wooden members to be fabricated into a header or other subassembly are positioned in abutment with the end alignment stop and adjacent the stanchions. Each lever includes a flat portion movable from a resting position above the members to a clamping position in engagement with the edges of the members. The members can be nailed together when clamped by the lever. A bias spring associated with each lever urges the lever toward its resting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Inventor: James Semmler
  • Patent number: 4665733
    Abstract: A die clamp arrangement for a press has a clamping lever that is shifted horizontally by a dog between an extended and a retracted position and rotated in a vertical plane between a clamping position and a released position. The cam and dog are interconnected for rotation in unison by a single shaft. In the retracted position the clamping lever is adapted to permit vertical movement of a die into and out of a press. Means are provided for actuating the clamps at the rear and at each side of the die from the front side of the press. The clamps at the front and/or the rear sides of the press are arranged to be pivoted from an operative position downwardly to an out-of the-way position below the top face of the press bolster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1987
    Inventor: Bernard J. Wallis
  • Patent number: 4629530
    Abstract: There is provided a method and apparatus for adjoining the two ends of a length of impact printer ribbon to form a continuous loop of ribbon within a ribbon cartridge. A welding fixture includes a plate, alignment guide bars defining crisscrossed alignment paths for the ribbon ends, clamps for securing the ribbon ends within the alignment paths, and a cutter mechanism for precisely cutting the ribbon. The fixture further includes mechanical means for manipulating the ribbon during the welding process. The apparatus and method of the present invention enables the ribbon welding process to be streamlined and the precision to be greatly improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1986
    Inventor: Paul E. Becking