Abstract: An inline clamp system having a base, a shoe having a plurality of teeth and a scroll wheel having a helical feature on a cone shaped surface. The helical feature of the scroll wheel meshes with the teeth of the shoe such that rotation of the scroll wheel in a first rotational direction causes linear movement of the shoe in a first linear direction and rotation of the scroll wheel in a second rotational direction causes linear movement of the shoe in a second linear direction, the first rotational direction being opposite the second rotational direction and the first linear direction being opposite the second linear direction. The scroll wheel rotates around an axis of rotation at a slight angle to the linear plane of movement of the shoe such that the helical feature engages the teeth only on one side of the axis of rotation.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a locating pin, a working platform and a locating method. The locating pin includes a housing, a movable mechanism, a securing mechanism and a guide rod, wherein the housing has a first cavity with an opening that has an axis therethrough, the movable mechanism is at least partially arranged in the first cavity and configured to be movable along the axis, the securing mechanism is secured with respect to the housing and configured to limit movement of the movable mechanism along the axis, the guide rod includes a guide rod body and configured to extend out of the first cavity through the opening with the movement of the movable mechanism, the guide rod body having a first end and a second end opposite to each other, wherein the first end is secured to the movable mechanism, and the second end includes a locating portion.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device for inserting an inflating valve, comprising a synchronous clamping and centering mechanism, a synchronous rotating mechanism, a valve hole position detection mechanism and an inflating valve inserting mechanism. The device can meet the requirement for automatically inserting an inflating valve to a wheel, has the characteristics of simple structure, convenient manufacture, stable performance and precision that can meet the machining requirement, and can meet the requirements for automatic production.

Abstract: A tire stem torque device is provided for tightening a valve stem of a tire mounted with one or more auxiliary tires on an axle of an automobile, without dismounting one or more of the auxiliary tires from the axle. The tire stem torque device includes a head member, an elongate member attached to the head member, and a handle attached to a distal end of the elongate member. The head member is configured of multiple sizes and defines a space configured to receive a valve stem of multiple sizes. The elongate member is configured of an adjustable length to create sufficient torque for the tightening of the valve stem of the tire.

Abstract: A pipe separator for separating pipes at a pipe joint includes an elongate shaft and an engagement portion. The engagement portion is configured to be mounted adjacent to a pipe joint. A force is applied to the pipe separator to separate the pipes at the joint without damaging the pipes.

Abstract: A multipurpose tire valve tool is provided for the purposes of maintenance of a Schrader valve and for replacing the tube of a pneumatic tire. The tool comprises a valve core removal key, a valve stem tap arm, a first air inlet end, and a second valve stem attachment end. Through the body of the tool is an air conduit and an internal valve core post for depressing the same. A check valve along the air inlet end allows air to be communicated into the tool, whereby the air flows therethrough and into an attached Schrader valve for filling the tire tube while the tool is thereattached. The tool facilitates removal of the valve core, cleaning of the valve stem threads, and filling the tire or tire tube with air while the tool maintains the position of the valve stem through the rim.

Abstract: Inflation valve having a tube and designed for use in an assembly consisting of a tire and a wheel, the valve having: (i) snap-in mechanism that enable the valve to be fixed in a cylindrical hole of circular cross-section formed in a rim of the wheel; (ii) mechanism suitable for receiving a torque intended to rotate the valve in the hole; (iii) an attachment piece provided with a mechanism for attaching the valve to a unit designed to be fitted inside the tire; the mechanism the valve to be attached to the unit being such that the attachment piece is separated from the unit when the valve is rotated in the hole in a predetermined rotation direction.

Abstract: A valve stem puller or holder, comprising an elongated handle with a clevis at one end, the clevis being formed by two side portions, and a hollow, partly cylindrical stem connector pivotally mounted between the side portions and movable between a first position in which the stem connector is coaxial with said handle and a second position in which the axis of the stem connector is at a large angle to the handle. The stem connector has an inner end in the form of a nipple configured to receive air pressure supply means, and the base of the handle between the side portions has a spring mounted detent element positioned so as to interact with the inlet of the nipple to releasably hold the stem connector in place.

Abstract: A valve stem installation system (10) includes a conveyor (24) for moving wheel (14). A controller (60) is adaptable for segmenting the wheel (14) into a plurality of sections (S1-S11). A detector (70) identifies and signals a general location of the aperture (12) to the controller (60) to identify a target section (S11) transmitted to the controller (60) by a first signal. A robotic manipulator (110, 112) is operably connected to the controller (60) and adaptable for inserting the valve stem into the aperture (12). A sensor (153) is connected to the robotic manipulator (110, 112) and is adaptable for visually identifying the target section (S11) and transmitting the general location of the aperture (12) within the target section by a second signal. The controller (60) generates a target signal transmitted to the robotic manipulator (110, 112) to increase the speed and accuracy of mating the valve stem into the aperture (12) in response to the target signal.

Abstract: A valve stem puller or holder, comprising an elongated handle with a clevis at one end, the clevis being formed by two side portions, and a hollow, partly cylindrical stem connector pivotally mounted between the side portions and movable between a first position in which the stem connector is coaxial with said handle and a second position in which the axis of the stem connector is at a large angle to the handle. The stem connector has an inner end in the form of a nipple configured to receive air pressure supply means, and the base of the handle between the side portions has a spring mounted detent element positioned so as to interact with the inlet of the nipple to releasably hold the stem connector in place.

Abstract: A valve stem installation system (10) includes a conveyor (24) for moving wheel rims (14). A detector (50) is comparable with the conveyor (24) to detect size of the wheel rim (14) and a location of an aperture (12) of the wheel rim (14) to receive various valve stems (16, 18). Two robots (110, 112) are adaptable for matably moving the valve stem (16, 18) to the wheel rim (14). A controller (60) is operably communicated with the robots (110, 112) and the detector (50) for receiving a signal from the detector (50) as the detector (50) identifies configuration of the wheel rim (14) and then transmitting the signal to the robots (110, 112) thereby directing the robots (110, 112) to selectively engage the valve stem (16, 18) to be inserted into the aperture (12).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a valve stem to the rim of a vehicle wheel includes locating apparatus that determines the location of an aperture on the wheel rim for receiving the valve stem, the locating apparatus preferably including a machine vision system at a gauging station. A programmable, robotic manipulator capable of compound, multi-axial movement and capable of engaging the valve stem is controlled by a controller to engage a valve stem, move the valve stem to the aperture in the wheel rim, coaxially align the central axis of the aperture with the longitudinal axis of the valve stem, and insert the valve stem through the aperture along the aligned central and longitudinal axes. Optionally, the robotic manipulator may include a nut runner to tighten a nut over the valve stem. Alternately, the gauging station may include a rotating table to rotate the vehicle wheel and an optical sensor for detecting the location of the aperture for the valve stem.

Abstract: A valve stem installation system (10) includes a conveyor (24) for moving wheel rims (14). A detector (50) is cooperable with the conveyor (24) to detect size of the wheel rim (14) and a location of an aperture (12) of the wheel rim (14) to receive various valve stems (16, 18). Two robots (110, 112) are adaptable for matably moving the valve stem (16, 18) to the wheel rim (14). A controller (60) is operably communicated with the robots (110, 112) and the detector (50) for receiving a signal from the detector (50) as the detector (50) identifies configuration of the wheel rim (14) and then transmitting the signal to the robots (110, 112) thereby directing the robots (110, 112) to selectively engage the valve stem (16, 18) to be inserted into the aperture (12).

Abstract: A tire pressure monitor (TPM) installation tool adapted for use by a operator, and for installing a push-in style TPM within a valve stem opening defined by a wheel, wherein the tool is configured to provide mechanical advantage while assembling the TPM and wheel, and includes an elongated member configured to receive an applied force from the operator, a nesting fixture configured to retain the TPM in a relatively fixed position, and a wheel engaging member for securing the tool during installation.

Abstract: Universal vehicle tire valve core and cap removal installation tool includes a cap removal counterbore at one end of a cylindrical rod member and a reversible valve core engagement member positioned in a counterbore at the opposite end of the cylindrical rod member.

Abstract: A valve stem puller which comprises a length of flexible elongated member which is connected at one end to a ring and at an opposite end to an externally threaded plug. The valve stem puller is to be utilized by inserting such through a fastener nut and then through a valve stem mounting hole in a tire rim and then threadably connecting the externally threaded plug onto a valve stem of an inflating tube and then inserting the inflating tube about the tire rim and within the confines of the tire, pulling on the flexible elongated member to cause the valve stem to connect with the valve stem mounting hole in a close conforming manner. A fastening nut is then threadably mounted about the valve stem to secure such in position. The tire is then completely installed on the tire rim and the externally threaded plug is then removed from the valve stem.

Abstract: A bottle cap with an integrated valve core remover is provided so that the process of sealing an object, such as a tire, with sealant in a container is simplified.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a valve stem to the rim of an vehicle wheel includes engaging a valve stem with a robotic manipulator, moving the valve stem relative to the rim along a programmable path of travel, coaxially aligning the valve stem with the aperture in the rim, and inserting the valve stem through the aperture in the rim. Preferably, the aperture location in the rim is determined at a gauging station by a machine vision system. If necessary, a power-actuated nut runner is used to tighten a nut over the valve stem. Alternately, the gauging station can use a table which rotates the wheel about a central axis, and an optical sensor detects the location of the aperture. Optionally, a probe mounted on the gauging station can be extended into the aperture to confirm the aperture position and to reposition the rim slightly if required.

Abstract: A valve stem installation system includes a robotic arm for moving a valve stem insertion device around the lip of wheel. The system also includes a pair of valve stem aperture sensors positioned on the robotic arm adjacent the valve stem insertion device and moveable around the lip of the wheel. The sensors can be positioned on opposite sides of the valve stem insertion device. When the first sensor locates the valve stem aperture, movement of the robotic arm can be slowed. When the second sensor locates the valve stem aperture, movement of the robotic arm can be stopped. The conveyor unit can include an identification station to sense the configuration of the wheel. A controller can select the appropriate valve stem to insert in the valve stem aperture in response to the sensed configuration of the wheel.

Abstract: A transmitter is mounted on a wheel of a vehicle by a jig of an automatic mounting machine. The transmitter has a measuring-transmitting portion, a valve stem, and a casing. The measuring-transmitting portion measures data representing the conditions of the tire and transmits data. The valve stem is inserted into the wheel and allows air to flow into the tire. The casing accommodates the measuring-transmitting portion, and has a recessed portion. The jig of the automatic mounting machine is engaged with the recessed portion when the automatic mounting machine holds the valve stem. Therefore, even a valve stem with the casing is easily attached to a valve hole of the wheel by using the automatic mounting machine.

Abstract: The present invention is a simple kit for removal and insertion of valve stems for tubeless tires while the tire remains mounted on the rim.

Abstract: A tool for pulling a valve stem and removing the valve core of a Schrader-type pneumatic valve includes an elongate flexible shaft having opposite end portions and a handle affixed to one end portion and a valve-core engaging member including a threaded rear portion and an unthreaded forked front portion for cooperating with a flat member of a Schrader-type valve core for rotating the core to remove it from the valve. The threaded rear portion is threadable into interior threads of the valve when the core has been removed for allowing a user of the tool to pull the valve through a wheel rim opening. The front forked portion of the valve-core engaging member includes a recess formed therein for accommodating a plunger of a Schrader-type valve therein to allow the forked portion to be positioned over the plunger in the valve to provide for engagement of the cooperating forked portion of the valve core.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a valve stem to the rim of an automotive vehicle wheel includes rims being supplied in series by a conveyor to a gauging station where the type and/or size of the rim and the location and alignment of an aperture for receiving the valve stem is determined by a machine vision system. An electronic control system directs a robotic manipulator to grasp either the valve stem or the rim, move the valve stem or the rim to a mounting station, position the valve stem or the rim with respect to the other such that the aperture in the rim is in coaxial alignment with the valve stem, and insert the valve stem through the aperture in the rim. If necessary, a power-actuated nut runner, mounted on the robotic manipulator or adjacent the mounting station, is used to tighten a nut over the valve stem.

Abstract: A tool for installing or removing a valve core in a valve stem of a tire assembly has an engagement end for physically engaging the valve core, an actuator cylinder for initiating rotation of the engagement end, and a planetary roller and shaft system for multiplying rotation from the actuator cylinder to the engagement end.

Abstract: A valve stem installation system includes a robotic arm for moving a valve stem insertion device around the lip of wheel. The system also includes a pair of valve stem aperture sensors positioned on the robotic arm adjacent the valve stem insertion device and moveable around the lip of the wheel. The sensors can be positioned on opposite sides of the valve stem insertion device. When the first sensor locates the valve stem aperture, movement of the robotic arm can be slowed. When the second sensor locates the valve stem aperture, movement of the robotic arm can be stopped. The conveyor unit can include an identification station to sense the configuration of the wheel. A controller can select the appropriate valve stem to insert in the valve stem aperture in response to the sensed configuration of the wheel.

Abstract: Apparatus for removing valve seals from a cylinder head of an engine. More particularly, valve seal removal apparatus having a lever and at least a pair of gripping members for frictionally gripping a portion of a valve seal.

Abstract: A tool for installing or removing a valve core in a valve stem of a tire assembly has an engagement end for physically engaging the valve core, an actuator cylinder for initiating rotation of the engagement end, and a planetary roller and shaft system for multiplying rotation from the actuator cylinder to the engagement end.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a tire valve removal tool. The device has a body having a bore extending through the body. An internal stop is located in the body. As located in the body is an internally threaded portion for engaging the threaded portion of a valve stem. A plurality of exhaust vents are axially spaced apart along the body and are in communication with the bore. A plunger is slidably retained within the bore. The plunger has a handle at one end and a valve engaging means located at an opposing end for engaging the tire valve and rotating it for insertion or removal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing and replacing a valve stem from the valve stem rim opening defined in the rim of a tubeless tire from the outside of the rim, such tool including a threaded rod for engaging the valve stem and pulling the valve stem through an inwardly tapered first tube into a second tube dimensioned to fit into the valve stem rim opening, the flange of the valve stem is gradually compressed, and after the tapered tube is removed the second tube is placed in the rim opening and the valve stem is pushed into the valve stem opening using only manual force.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a tire valve removal tool. The device has a body having a bore extending through the body. An internal stop is located in the body. As located in the body is an internally threaded portion for engaging the threaded portion of a valve stem. A plurality of exhaust vents are axially spaced apart along the body and are in communication with the bore. A plunger is slidably retained within the bore. The plunger has a handle at one end and a valve engaging means located at an opposing end for engaging the tire valve and rotating it for insertion or removal.

Abstract: The present invention is a tire valve tool for use in servicing valve stems in tubeless pneumatic tire rims. The tool may be used to install a valve stem into a tire rim and may also be used to extract a valve stem from the tire rim. The tool includes a clamping jaw assembly at one end of an elongated handle. A lever arm attached to one of the clamping jaws serves to provide both a fulcrum point for accomplishing a mechanical advantage in pulling on the valve stem and as a lever for applying a closing force to the jaw assembly in order to grip the valve stem. The clamping jaw assembly is shaped so that valve stems in rims with recessed valve stem openings can be grasped below the main rim surface without causing damage to the rim surface. The tool preferably incorporates a non-marring material for the fulcrum end of the lever in order to minimize damage to the rim surface.

Abstract: The present invention is a simple kit for removal and insertion of valve stems for tubeless tires while the tire remains mounted on the rim.