Means To String Patents (Class 29/241)
  • Patent number: 11872676
    Abstract: An extraction device for a heating tracer includes a clamping assembly and a driving member. The clamping assembly includes a connecting seat, a first extrusion wheel and a second extrusion wheel rotatably arranged on the connecting seat. The first extrusion wheel and the second extrusion wheel are both an eccentric wheel. In use, the heating tracer is clamped between the first extrusion wheel and the second extrusion wheel, and is in contact with an outer circumference of the first extrusion wheel and the second extrusion wheel. The driving member includes a main body and a drive shaft arranged thereon. The main body is configured to drive the drive shaft to extend along an axial direction of the main body. The drive shaft is connected to an end of the connecting seat away from the first extrusion wheel and the second extrusion wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: HUBEI XIANTING TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chuanhong Pan, Yu Huang, Yong Xiang, Zuqiang Xin, Jianhua Liu
  • Patent number: 11796115
    Abstract: A compact, open path cable pulling apparatus, having a low center of gravity, composed of two detachable, single person hand-portable components, and useful in either a vertical or horizontal configuration. The apparatus is competent to pull cable horizontally through space underground with a pulling force in the range of at least about 20 to 100 tons using low pressure flow hydraulics and has utility in the cable pulling industries, including in the drilling and horizontal directional drilling industries, and as part of a method for pulling cable through space, including pulling cable through space in the pipe bursting and trenchless pipe replacement industries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Roddie, Inc.
    Inventors: Rod Herrick, Shawn Patrick Ries
  • Patent number: 11454274
    Abstract: A positioning tool for axially positioning a circular lubricant dam insert on a splined drive shaft may include a circular body having an inner surface configured to slide over an outer surface of the splined drive shaft. A first plurality of splines may be positioned on an inner surface of the circular body, the first plurality of splines mating with a second plurality of splines on the outer surface of the splined drive shaft. A depth setting member may be positioned on the circular body that defines an axial extent to which the circular body slides over the outer surface of the splined drive shaft. A position setting element may extend axially from the circular body to contact an axial end of the insert to axially position the insert on the splined drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Javier Ramirez, Alfonso Cardenas, Gilbert Scott Reveille
  • Patent number: 10486328
    Abstract: A fastening system includes a carriage moveably mounted to a frame between first and second positions extensive with and beyond a fixture. The fixture is horizontally movably mounted in the frame to receive components to be fastened of differing sizes, with slide bars vertically moveably mounted relative to the fixture and simultaneously horizontally movable with the fixture. Adjustable spacers, in the form of a body having different extents or telescopic pillars, are positioned in the frame to abut with the components received in the fixture. Wheels rotatably mounted to first and second platforms of the carriage are received in U-shaped channels of the frame, with the first and second platforms being moved by endless belts clamped thereto. Nail guns are movably mounted between vertical posts of the platforms and include a plunger which is biased against a drum carrying a belt of fasteners and include a flat board tangential to a roller having a V-shaped circumferential groove receiving the heads of nails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Palletec, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Howard Wagner, James Thomas Kirk, Jon Denney, Marcus Keith Drayton
  • Patent number: 10337542
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for retaining a foldable curtain in a stowed position. A curtain retention bracket comprises a U-shaped chambered body having high torsional stiffness and a clasp comprising a flexible strap. The clasp has one end configured to be pivotably coupled to one arm of the U-shaped chambered body and another end configured to be latchable onto the other arm of the U-shaped chambered body. The clasp can be easily opened and closed manually using one hand. The geometry of the clasp is such that forces exerted on it by the stowed curtain cause it to pull tighter closed. The U-shaped chambered body may be produced using an additive manufacturing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Sean R. Hesslewood, Heidi L. Larson
  • Patent number: 9532851
    Abstract: A quick stop drilling tool for use with a medical or dental treatment device includes a drilling tool having a body extending between a connection end and a working end and having a longitudinal extension along a longitudinal axis of the drilling tool. The drilling tool has a hollow outer shell in which a probe is held that can be moved along the longitudinal axis so that a part of the probe can be moved out of the shell through an opening. The probe is designed as an elongated pin, and its first end facing the connection end is held in the interior of the hollow outer shell. An electromagnetic sensor for detecting relative movement between the shell and the probe is arranged along the longitudinal extension of the body. The drilling tool has a channel for a treatment fluid extending along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: W&H Dentalwerk Bürmoos GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Pruckner, Thomas Jindra, Georg Watzek, Ewald Unger
  • Publication number: 20150089812
    Abstract: The stringing kit is used for stringing a decorative jewellery element and comprises a casing that in turn has a main body and sockets in its main body. A number of pins can be releasably installed in the casing by nesting them in the sockets. At least one string can be interlaced through the pins. Pin retaining members provided in the casing main body releasably retain the pins in the sockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Guillaume Guyader, Sheida Shojai
  • Patent number: 8943694
    Abstract: An accessory making device (1) of the present invention is a device for making an accessory including a core (83) formed into a substantially ring shape by connecting both ends of a stretchable cord-like body (46) having rubber-like elasticity and a decoration main body (83) disposed around the core in such a manner so as to abut both ends thereof against each other in a contracted state so as to be reduced in axial length. The accessory making device (1) includes a long rigid holder (5). The holder (5) can retain connecting portions (47M, 47F) on both end sides of the cord-like body (46) with the connecting portions (47M, 47F) of the cord-like body (46) separated from each other, and can be inserted through the decoration main body (83).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: The Pilot Ink Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Natsuko Kobayashi, Haruka Kasuga, Akio Nakashima
  • Patent number: 8925174
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for quickly and easily installing a safety cord in the butt of a racquet, without damaging the safety cord, includes a handle and an elongate structure having a loop for engaging the safety cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: A. Cil Ciliberti, Ruben Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 8857059
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a manufactured article comprising a support component (2) delimiting therein at least one receiving seat (3), at least one inserted component (4) designed to be seated in a respective receiving seat (3) in the support component (2), and binding means for binding the inserted component (4) to a respective receiving seat (3). The at least one inserted component (4) is mounted for rotation in the at least one receiving seat (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Dibi S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giovanni Bizzotto
  • Patent number: 8522439
    Abstract: A system and method for stringing decorative elements onto a stringing element to make jewelry, such as a necklace or bracelet. A jig is provided that has holds a first tube. The first tube has a first end, a second end, an inside diameter and an outside diameter. The outside diameter is smaller than the inside diameter of the stringing holes in the decorative elements. The first tube is set as a cantilever. At least some of the decorative elements are set onto the first tube over its first end. The first tube extends through the stringing hole in each of the decorative elements. A stringing element is advanced through the first tube. The first tube is then removed. This leaves at least some of the stringing element strung through the stringing hole of each of the decorative elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher G. Neuman
  • Publication number: 20120159762
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for quickly and easily installing a safety cord in the butt of a racquet, without damaging the safety cord, includes a handle and an elongate structure having a loop for engaging the safety cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: A. Cil Ciliberti, Ruben Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 8186034
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for drawing cables having a connector shroud at a distal end thereof through a back of an automobile seat in the installation of an automobile entertainment system. The apparatus includes an eyelet shaped and dimensioned for selective attachment to the connector shroud. The eyelet includes a housing shaped and dimensioned to fit over the connector shroud. The housing includes a coupling member shaped and dimensioned for engagement with a wire puller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Publication number: 20100257712
    Abstract: A processing module positioning system for window blind slats utilizes a position adjustment assembly to move plural processing modules to predetermined positions. The position adjustment assembly includes a servo motor employed to drive a connecting strap. A position control frame is fixed on the connecting strap, so that when the connecting strap is driven to move, the position control frame will be moved by the connecting strap to drive the processing modules connected on the position control frame to move. The position control frame can be connected to and disconnected from the processing modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: SHOU-PO WU, MING-SUNG WU
  • Publication number: 20100122451
    Abstract: A process for simulating and assembling flexible parts includes creating an ideal path between first and second planes and placing a virtual rigid envelope around the ideal path, and possibly tubular extensions beyond the path. A virtual flexible part is marked with reference features and pulled through the virtual rigid envelope, such that the path of the virtual flexible part is constrained but may rotate. Removing the virtual rigid envelope allows the virtual flexible part to relax, causing it to move to its lowest energy state. Zero-twist end conditions on the virtual flexible part are marked, corresponding to the intersection of the reference features with the planes. Identification marks are placed on a real flexible part, corresponding to the reference strips on the virtual flexible part. The real flexible part may then be assembled by aligning zero-twist marks on mating features to the identification marks on the real flexible part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Wuhua Yang, Robert Bruce Tilove, Richard A. Knoth
  • Publication number: 20100075078
    Abstract: A liner tube for repairing existing pipes is provided. The liner tube is sufficient flexible to lie substantially flat under its own weight thereby defining an upper portion and a lower portion. The liner tube includes an inner layer, an outer layer disposed around the inner layer, a first intermediate layer disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer, the first intermediate layer being wrapped around the inner layer to overlap itself and define a first overlap portion in the upper portion, and a second intermediate layer disposed between the first intermediate layer and the outer layer, the second intermediate layer being wrapped around the first intermediate layer to overlap itself and define a second overlap portion in the lower portion. The first and second intermediate layers include a porous material and the inner layer includes material substantially impermeable to liquids. Systems used to manufacture the liner tube are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: Lightstream, L.P.
    Inventor: Rene Quitter
  • Publication number: 20090272147
    Abstract: A low cost, crimpless method of stringing beads and article thereof. The method employs tight knots and twists in small diameter, triple strand nylon coated high toughness and high tensile strength austenitic stainless steel wire to retain clasps and position beads and jewels on the wire. The method is dependent upon the size and physical properties of the wire. It improves appearance, eliminates the use of crimping beads and tubes, does not require special tools and is adaptable to right handed, left handed and visually impaired persons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: J. Michael Elliott, Charles E. Carnes
  • Patent number: 7461440
    Abstract: To provide a blind slat resistant to bending with keeping good rotation of a slat. The slat (16) is formed with a lift cord passing hole (16a) through which a lift cord passes, and when a length of the lift cord passing hole (16a) in a slat width direction is b, a slat width is a, and a slat crown height is e, 0.59 · e a + 0.19 ? b a ? - 1.41 · e a + 0.70 is satisfied, and the slat (16) is formed with a protrusion (16g), which crosses an extension line (16d) of the lift cord passing hole (16a) and protrudes beyond a general plane (16e) of the slat, the extension line (16d) connecting an edge (16b) of the lift cord passing hole (16a) in the slat width direction and an edge (16c) of the slat (16) in the slat width direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Nichibei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sumitaka Sasaki, Toshikazu Okita, Eiji Sakuma
  • Patent number: 6729508
    Abstract: A mechanical beading system is disclosed. Specifically, the beading system rotates a stiff but flexible beading wire inside an appropriately-shaped container of beads, causing them to slide onto the open end of the beading wire. The beading wire engages the beading mechanism with an endpiece which also allows the beading wire to be removeably fixed in place to complete the work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Meyer/Glass Design, Ltd.
    Inventors: Randall Jon Klimpert, Dianne Lauble
  • Patent number: 6704971
    Abstract: A product stocking device is disclosed that retains a plurality of display packages, so that the plurality of display packages are readily aligned for simplified mounting onto a display hanger. The stocking device has a first section and a second section, the second section threads through apertures in the plurality of display packages and is then coupled to a coupling portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Goody Products Inc.
    Inventors: Larry R. Dossett, Michael D. Harper, Charles T. Henry, Kim V. Peterson, Pedro A. Sosa, Jeffrey J. Meve, Ryan W. Murphy, John P. Scarbrough
  • Patent number: 6671954
    Abstract: The rubber plug insertion apparatus 10 is provided with upper and lower rubber plug holders 36, 37 holding a rubber plug 14 which is to be mounted on the end of an electric wire 67, and upper and lower insertion guides 38, 39 for guiding the end of the electric wire 67, at the time of inserting the end of the electric wire 67 into a barrel hole 14A in the rubber plug 14 arranged in the upper and lower rubber plug holders 36, 37, By arranging the upper and lower insertion guides 38, 39 on the side opposite to one side where the end of the electric wire 67 is inserted into the upper and lower rubber plug holders 36, 37, a rubber plug insertion apparatus can be realized, wherein an electric wire can be reliably inserted into the rubber plug and defective insertion hardly occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Nomoto
  • Patent number: 6643907
    Abstract: In a medium fixing method of fixing one or a plurality of mediums on a shaft while the one or plurality of mediums each having a circular opening portion in a substantially center are stacked and the shaft is inserted into the opening portions, the mediums are fixed to the shaft while the mediums into which the shaft is inserted are guided with a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Hagiwara, Hiroshi Watanabe, Shojiro Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20030106199
    Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and methods for applying a material to a cable or into a conduit. The apparatus includes a hinged housing for coupling to a portion of a cable and/or a conduit. The apparatus is configured as a portable housing that is particularly suited for use in the field to apply a material to an existing underground cable or conduit or to a new or relocated cable or conduit during installation. The hinged housing permits the apparatus to couple to a portion of a cable or a portion of a conduit without splicing the cable or the conduit or removing the cable. When coupled to a cable or a conduit, the housing defines a chamber into which a material is inserted. Compressed air is supplied to the chamber to force the material into an innerduct of the conduit and to pull the material therethrough, applying the material to the cable and/or the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventors: Joseph Sylvia, Ross Smith, Larry Shelton, Daniel Upton
  • Patent number: 6557234
    Abstract: In a medium fixing method of fixing one or a plurality of mediums on a shaft while the one or plurality of mediums each having a circular opening portion in a substantially center are stacked and the shaft is inserted into the opening portions, the mediums are fixed to the shaft while the mediums into which the shaft is inserted are guided with a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Hagiwara, Hiroshi Watanabe, Shojiro Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6473953
    Abstract: A wire gripper device has upper and lower gripper members. The upper gripper member is movably engaged to the lower gripper member to alternate between closed and open positions. Moreover, the lower gripper member has a lower gripper section. A lower notch is formed on the lower gripper section, wherein the lower notch is sized and configured to support a wire therein. In addition, a biasing member is engaged between the upper and lower gripper members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Raymond N. Portnoff
  • Patent number: 6467823
    Abstract: The tool comprises a body having a top portion within which is formed a generally U-shaped notch with a width and depth that are much larger than the diameter of the wire to be handled. The sides of the notch are outwardly tapered so that the notch is wider at its top. All edges of the notch are smoothed and have a radius such that there is no binding of the wire onto the tool. The design of the tool allows the wire to easily slip across the bottom of the notch without binding. The lower portion of the cylinder comprises a concentric bore for receiving a pole or other lifting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Jerome L. Brekken
  • Patent number: 6402122
    Abstract: A method for drawing a cable which inherently lacks tensile strength into cable channels or cable pipes includes providing a tensile yarn skin on the end of the cable before the step of drawing the cable into the channels or pipes. The yarn skin can either be a net hose or a spin-wrap applied onto the cable. One application of the method is the connection of the cable incoming at a terminal tower to a switching center or exchange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: SCC Special Communication Cables GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Ernst Mayr, Guenter Einsle
  • Publication number: 20010037546
    Abstract: A gut-clamping mechanism for use in stringing tennis, badminton, squash, and racquetball rackets. The apparatus includes a support post erected on a clamp block, a pair of holders wherein one holder is secured onto the top edge of said support post and the other holder is provided on the first holder in a detachable manner and such that an expanding coil spring is inserted between them. A pressing plate that has a shaft that goes through the pair of holders when the holders are joined together and with a fastening, adjusting nut hinged on the screw unit that is etched and provided at the tip of said shaft. A clamp handle is axially attached to an edge of the pressing plate, wherein a freely rotating roller is axially attached to the part that comes into contact with the side of the holder secured onto the support post in the clamp handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventor: Akira Tsuchida
  • Patent number: 6190997
    Abstract: To avoid damage to carrier substrates in a device for mechanically aligning carrier substrates for electronic circuits, the carrier substrates having two main surfaces and a peripheral surface and being supplied to a horizontal fixture of the device, centering elements being forced to engage on the peripheral surface of the carrier substrates to align the carrier substrates in the horizontal fixture, it is proposed that at least two centering elements be mounted rotationally and displaceably in the axial direction on at least two first shafts that are oriented in parallel with one another and in parallel with the horizontal fixture. The centering elements engage on sections of the peripheral surface of the carrier substrate disposed opposite one another in a first direction, and at least two further centering elements engage with stop faces at sections of the peripheral surface of the carrier substrate disposed opposite one another in a second direction running perpendicularly to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Becker, Eugen Armbruster
  • Patent number: 5966789
    Abstract: A corrugated plastic service pipe 20 is inserted together with a flexible guide assembly 22 through an accessible end 11 of a steel service pipe 14, 10, which extends from the end 11 to a main 18. The flexible guide assembly 22 comprises a flexible guide element 24 and a flexible spring guide 26. The element 24 extends through a nose-piece 32 having an outer part secured to the pipe 20 and an inner part 36. The spring guide 26 carries a sensor 60 at its tip which emits a signal when the sensor enters the main 18. When the pipe 20 is correctly positioned fluid sealant 70 is injected into the space between the pipe 20 and the pipe 14, 10. When the sealant has solidified sufficiently, the guide assembly 22 is withdrawn through the pipe 20, the inner part 36 being separated from the outer part 34 to allow withdrawal of the spring guide 26.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: BG plc
    Inventors: Dudley Trevor Dickson, Colin Cochrane
  • Patent number: 5950298
    Abstract: A cable (5) is inserted in a tube (2) wound on a tube reel (1). The cable is fed from a cable reel (6) through a cable-advancing unit (4) into a free inlet end (2.1) of the tube (2). Compressed air is applied to an air inlet (8) of the advancing unit (4), and led through the tube along the cable already inserted in the tube. The tube reel is put on a support 7, which is driven to a periodic movement in the vertical direction between to extreme positions (amplitude A, period P). During part of each period the movement is a free fall, or at least approximates a free fall. The movement may be sinusoidal with period P=2.pi.?A/g!.sup.1/2 (g is gravitational constant). In this case, the support (7) may be part of a rotatably supported lever, or may be part of a seesaw. In addition, the movement may be the vertical component of a maintained swinging movement. In this case the support (7) may be the swinging part of a Chinese swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Koninklijke KPN N.V.
    Inventors: Willem Griffioen, Gerard Plumettaz, Arie Van Wingerden
  • Patent number: 5946788
    Abstract: A cable (5) is inserted, by way of a free end (2.1), into a tube (2) wound around a tube reel (1) which is fixed, with its winding axis (y) vertical, onto a carrier (7). The carrier with the tube reel is subjected to a periodical movement having a vertical component and a longitudinal component. The vertical component is a vertical oscillation having a period (P) and an amplitude (A.sub.v =gP.sup.2 /32) for an, at any rate approximately, "free-fall" movement during part of each period, preferably during half a period. The longitudinal component is an oscillating rotation around the vertical winding axis of the tube reel having the same period (P) and an amplitude (A.sub.L). The "free-fall" movement is preferably commenced when the rotational direction of the oscillating rotation is reversed and becomes backward, as opposed to the insertion direction of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Koninklijke KPN N.V.
    Inventors: Willem Griffioen, Gerard Plumettaz
  • Patent number: 5701664
    Abstract: An apparatus for microsurgical needle suture attachment includes a clamp for holding a needle such that the needle aperture remains in a fixed position; at least one guide member defining an angled guide area having a relatively wide portion and a vertex portion, the vertex portion being aligned with the fixed position of the needle aperture; a transport mechanism for advancing a suture end portion into the relatively wide portion of the guide member(s); and a deflection spring for moving the suture end portion into the vertex portion of the angled guide area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: United States Surgical Corporation
    Inventor: Marcel Sonderegger
  • Patent number: 5673468
    Abstract: A hand-held device has motor driven gears for propelling a longitudinally slit, corrugated tube along a guide track to a spreader which spreads the tube apart to enable the tube to encompass an elongated member, such as a cable, which passes through the spreader. A cutter on the device cuts the tube in a direction perpendicular to the tube axis when a sufficient length of the tube has been provided to jacket the elongated member. The cutting occurs only on the corrugation peaks (not valleys) of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: PRO.EFF GmbH Entwicklung von Produktions-Systemen
    Inventor: Ulrich Pumpe
  • Patent number: 5664707
    Abstract: A tool for installing perforated beads on a strand of fibers, such as a strand of hair. The tool comprises a rod terminating in a closed loop at one end, and having a removable cap at the other end. When the cap is removed, perforated beads are sequentially loaded onto the rod. The cap is replaced, thus retaining the beads between the cap and the loop. The strand of fibers is passed through the loop. The loop is resilient, and is manually compressed to accommodate passage of the beads as the beads are pushed from the rod onto the strand of fibers. The tool is then disengaged from the strand. The beads may be secured in place by crimping one or more beads, or by applying a cement to the strand, or both. The cement may either act by adhering a bead to the strand, or by increasing the diameter of the strand so that it no longer passes through the bead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Spector
  • Patent number: 5634290
    Abstract: A harness lure tying device comprises a plurality of beads and a spinner disposed on a shaft having an axial bore therethrough and removable retainers at opposite ends of the shaft. The removal of one or the other retainers permits the beads and spinner to be slid onto and off the shaft into and out of engagement with a leader line during the tying of a harness lure or the replacement of the beads and blade of a harness for those of another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Floyd H. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5634252
    Abstract: A tubing attachment apparatus is provided which automatically severs a preselected tubing segment from a continuously fed length of tubing, moves the tubing segment toward an operative position, slits the tubing to form an axial slit along its length, spreads the opposing edges of the axial slit and pushes the tubing segment to cause it to move over a wire portion of a component. The tubing segments are moved, along a first path defined by a guide rod, through the action of a carriage that is reciprocally movable relative to a support structure. A gripper and a pusher attached to the carriage move sequentially seared tubing segments along the first path and through the slitter and spreader to dispose the tubing segments over wires of components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis E. Jungles, Keith E. Noble, Ronald C. Roepke, Robert A. Rogers
  • Patent number: 5528808
    Abstract: An installation tool for stringing a tensioned wire between an anchor point and a retaining point, including a sleeve having a slidably mounted pin inside. A tip of the pin holds a loop end of the tensioned wire (such as a coronode in a corotron wire assembly), and protrudes from an end of the sleeve. When the tip holding the loop end of the tensioned wire is placed adjacent to a retaining pin, and the tip is retracted into the sleeve, the loop end of the wire slides onto the retaining pin, where it may rest in a securing notch. A spring may be used to bias the tip of the pin to retract or protrude from the end of the sleeve positioned adjacent to the retaining point. An end of the pin protruding from the sleeve end opposite the retaining point may be used independently or in cooperation with a biasing spring to move the tip of the pin into and out of the sleeve. The sleeve may include gripping areas and or finger loops to permit the user to accurately manipulate the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Paul J. Holubek, Betty J. Curtis, Frank R. Walsh
  • Patent number: 5390402
    Abstract: Segmented guide tubes for the signal-bearing wires for journal and thrust bearing instrumentation are received in the lower bearing housing section without removal of the rotor or major tear-down of the turbine. Guide tube segments for the thrust bearings are specifically shaped and configured to enable remote or blind threaded connection within the lower housing section with fittings facilitating the "feel" for the alignment necessary to thread a first straight tube segment from above the lower housing section into the fitting of a second guide segment introduced into the drain hole of the lower housing section. Once threaded together, signal-bearing wires may be snaked through the resultant guide tube assembly. Guide tubes for the journal bearing include side guide tube segments secured at their upper ends to the lower housing section and to a Y-tube connection at their lower ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Loren H. White, Micah F. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5272806
    Abstract: A system for producing and distributing index coded hangers to a plurality of locations, wherein the index indicia is correlated to the characteristics of the garment to be hung from the hanger at each of the plurality of locations. A unique hanger and index cap is disclosed, along with a method and means of making the same that is particularly adapted to high volume semi-automated operation. A device for assembling the index cap and hanger at the time the garment is hung is also disclosed.The system contemplates the localized production of the index caps for improved control of batch color and other characteristics, with remote molding and assembly of the hangers at said plurality of remote locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Assignee: Plasti-form Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Marshall, Stanley Gouldson, John Mazza, Olaf Olk, Robert Maiorca
  • Patent number: 5245740
    Abstract: A coil of a tube is formed. The coil is vibrated while a threadlike piece is passed in through the inlet end of the tube so that a given point of the tube reciprocates along a helical path. Provision is made to ensure that inlet end of the tube does not cause a portion of the threadlike piece upstream of and close to that inlet end to move diametrically while being fed into the tube. Provision is also made to form a coil of the threadlike piece, from which the threadlike piece is pull out along the axis of the coil and fed to the inlet end of the tube by a conveying force resulting from the vibration of the coil of the tube. A feeder to supply the threadlike piece into the tube may be provided between the inlet end of the tube and a coil feeding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Nippon Steel Welding Products & Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuo Araki, Kazufumi Tabata, Kiyomi Yokoi, Tadami Ashidate, Osamu Hattori
  • Patent number: 5228179
    Abstract: A bellows tube installation device comprises a first clamp mechanism 4 for holding a bellows tube T placed over a tube guide 1. The first clamp mechanism 4 is displaced toward the distal end portion of the tube guide 1 along tube guide, so that a slit of the bellows tube having reached the distal end of the tube guide 1 is enlarged. An electric wire W is inserted into the bellows tube T at the distal end portion thereof through such an enlarged slit. The bellows tube T, having the electric wire W inserted therein at the distal end portion thereof, is clampedly held by a second clamp mechanism 6. The second clamp mechanism 6 is displaced along the electric wire W toward the distal end of the electric wire by a second displacement mechanism 7, whereby the bellows tube T is entirely fitted over the electric wire W.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Michio Fukuda, Yoshinobu Ota, Hiroshi Kagei
  • Patent number: 5212884
    Abstract: An apparatus for the series production of Moebius ribbons comprises a threading robot having its four degrees of freedom (X,Y,Z,R). A second robot, movable in one direction, with two degrees of freedom (Z',R') is mounted on the first robot. The two robots cooperate to transfer between them a ribbon of delicate material, the ribbon being extracted from the ribbon cartridge and imparted with the 180.degree. twist required for the manufacturing of the Moebius ribbon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: SM Engineering AG
    Inventors: Xaver Stockli, Jurg Messerli
  • Patent number: 5197175
    Abstract: A bead stringing device to enable an individual quickly to asssemble a large quantity of beads on a wire or string comprises an assembly of a pedestal base which supports a rotatable bowl. The bowl includes a bottom panel and a circumferential side wall that is curved to form a convex cross-section. A mandrel is disposed coaxially with the side wall and extends upwardly from the bottom panel, and a knob extends upwardly from the mandrel through the open upper end of the bowl. A socket is formed in the bottom panel coaxially with the side wall and the mandrel, and is dimensioned to receive a shaft extending upwardly from the pedestal base. The knob is provided so that an individual may grasp the knob and spin the bowl about the shaft of the pedestal base. A hook-like wire is adapted to be extended into the open upper end of the bowl adjacent to the side wall thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Inventor: Po-Ling Yuen
  • Patent number: 5179771
    Abstract: A machine for production of finished lath packs for Venetian blinds, which have holes at the ends for draw cords and ladders consisting of bands or strings, every cross band of which carries a lath, and where two neighboring cross bands of a ladder are placed on each side of the draw cord passed through the holes. The machine has a mechanism which inserts laths at each ladder, a mechanism which lifts the inserted lath and the ladders as well as devices to retain the raised lath. Each lifting mechanism has a carrier with a slit through which the ladder stretches and, on both side of the slit, carrier faces sloping away from each other for an inserted lath. The carrier can tilt in such a way that the carrier faces support the laths alternately. The carriers are tilted synchronously with the movement of the feed mechanism. The carrier is thus used also for positioning the ladder with the consecutive cross bands placed on one and the other side alternately of the draw cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: A/S Chr. Fabers Fabriker
    Inventor: Jens O. Hebsgaard
  • Patent number: 5113570
    Abstract: A process and a device enable tubular straps to be pulled or guided through support roller stations. The strap is rolled until the diameter (D) of the roll is less than the operating diameter (D') and is held in this position by a clamping means which moves with it, such as a mesh sleeve. The desired diameter of the strap is obtained by means of a device whose diameter decreases like that of a nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: O & K Orenstein & Koppel Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Franz-Albert Steinkotter
  • Patent number: 5068960
    Abstract: A device for the insertion of filling wires into a wire jointed-band is described, being positioned in the conveying direction of a machine for the production of the wire jointed-band behind a feeding device for the plugging wires. By means of a guiding plate with channels and a roller the filling wires are inserted into the respective openings of the already completed wire jointed-band. The device according to the invention allows a sectional mechanical insertion of the filling wires into the actual wire jointed-band. The filling wires can be inserted simultaneously with the plugging wires, resulting in a substantially higher production speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: Filztuchverwaltungs GmbH
    Inventor: Friedrich Metzinger
  • Patent number: 5058259
    Abstract: A coil of a tube is formed. The coil is vibrated while a threadlike piece is passed in through the inlet end of the tube so that a given point of the tube reciprocates along a helical path. Provision is made to ensure that inlet end of the tube does not cause a portion of the threadlike piece upstream of and close to that inlet end to move diametrically while being fed into the tube. Provision is also made to form a coil of the treadlike piece, from which the threadlike piece is pulled out along the axis of the coil and fed to the inlet end of the tube by a conveying force resulting from the vibration of the coil of the tube. A feeder to supply the threadlike piece into the tube may be provided between the inlet end of the tube and a coil feeding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Nippon Steel Welding Products & Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuo Araki, Kazufumi Tabata, Kiyomi Yokoi, Tadami Ashidate, Osamu Hattori
  • Patent number: 5044057
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for fabricating heavy duty blasting mats. A plurality of parallel spaced curved steel rods are clamped at their lower ends in a frame so that reclaimed automobile tire sections can be threaded in a prearranged pattern onto the free upper ends thereof. When the rods are fully loaded, the upper ends of the rods are clamped in an upper frame, and the lower ends are released. A hydraulically operated rake is actuated to push the assembled tire sections off the lower ends of the rods and onto steel cables flexibly and releasably coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Inventor: Robert Meagher
  • Patent number: 5007164
    Abstract: A method for mounting a waterproof plug to the front end of a covered electric wire, comprising the steps of feeding waterproof plugs to a first position of a transfer path one by one from a magazine in such a manner that the opening of each waterproof plug is in parallel with the transfer path; feeding a covered electric wire to a mounting position as a second position of the transfer path in an uncovered state of the front end thereof; and transferring the waterproof plug from the first position to the second position and inserting the uncovered end of the electric wire into the opening of the waterproof plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Sanae Kato