With Work-holder For Assembly Patents (Class 29/281.1)
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Patent number: 7555837Abstract: A cylinder block has at least two cylinder banks each having cylinder bores arranged in at least two directions relative to an axis for a crankshaft. A rotator on which the cylinder block is securely disposed has a convex rounded surface. When the rotator rotates, the convex rounded surface moves along a concave rounded surface of a rotator-holding base. As a result of the rotation, the cylinder bores of the first bank or the cylinder bores of the second bank face upward in the vertical direction. Accordingly, with a single spray gun, sprayed coatings can be formed on inner surfaces of the cylinder bores of the first and second banks without having to change a mounting position of the cylinder block.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2006Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kiyokazu Sugiyama, Takayuki Monchujo, Akiharu Tashiro, Eiji Shiotani
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Patent number: 7552565Abstract: A flood barrier system for sealing an opening in a wall structure against the inflow of flood waters. The system comprises a plurality of elongated, horizontally disposed barrier elements of a length somewhat greater than the width of the opening. The barrier elements are stacked vertically, one upon the other against the outer face of the wall structure. End clamps engage opposite ends of the individual barrier elements to press them snugly against the outer surface of the wall, providing seals along the opposite vertical side edges of the opening. A simplified clamping mechanism is provided above the uppermost barrier element, with provisions to apply vertically downward clamping pressure on the uppermost barrier element, and thus upon the entire series of vertically stacked barrier elements.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2006Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: The Presray CorporationInventor: Jason W. Smith
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Patent number: 7546942Abstract: A flexible system for welding motor-vehicle bodies or subassemblies thereof envisages a series of pairs of side frames provided with referencing and clamping devices for keeping in the correct position the structures to be assembled during welding. For each different type of body to be assembled a different pair of side frames is provided, equipped with referencing and clamping devices adapted to the respective type of body. Each pair of side frames is associated to a basic structure, with which it forms a unitary referencing and clamping module. Said modules can be moved through the assembly station to follow one another in the operative welding position, according to the type of body to be welded. The structure to be assembled, or at least part thereof, is fed to the welding station by means of a conveying line that is totally independent and separate from the basic structures of the modules.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: COMAU S.p.A.Inventors: Denny Monti, Piero Bossotto
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Patent number: 7542546Abstract: Sample mounts (10) for mounting microcrystals of biological macromolecules for X-ray crystallography are prepared by using patterned thin polyimide films (12) that have curvature imparted thereto, for example, by being attached to a curved outer surface of a small metal rod (16). The patterned film (12) preferably includes a tip end (24) for holding a crystal. Preferably, a small sample aperture is disposed in the film for reception of the crystal. A second, larger aperture can also be provided that is connected to the sample aperture by a drainage channel, allowing removal of excess liquid and easier manipulation in viscous solutions. The curvature imparted to the film (12) increases the film's rigidity and allows a convenient scoop-like action for retrieving crystals. The polyimide contributes minimally to background and absorption, and can be treated to obtain desired hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Thorne, Zachary Stum, Kevin O'Neill, Jan Kmetko
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Publication number: 20090113688Abstract: An assembly failure prevention device capable of effectively preventing assembly failure of assembly members onto a belt member. A tongue support device 20 of an assembly failure prevention device 10 includes a slide plate 40 having a fitting hole 42 conforming to the shape of a specific tongue plate 44. The slide plate 40 is guided by guide rail 28 and guide groove 34, and moves to a predetermined position for passing a webbing belt therethrough. If a wrong tongue plate 40 is fitted in the fitting hole 42, an insertion portion 50 of tongue plate 44 projects from the fitting hole 42. When the slide plate 40 moves in this state, the insertion portion 50 is interfered with by an end portion of the guide rail 28, and is dropped out of the slide plate 40.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2006Publication date: May 7, 2009Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHOInventors: Shingo Izuchi, Koichi Watanabe, Sakae Gotou, Toyoaki Tabata, Kiyonobu Nagaya
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Publication number: 20090094828Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing cracks on a gas turbine engine component includes mounting a first pivotable tool to a base, mounting a second pivotable tool to the first pivotable tool, and mounting a fixture holding the gas turbine engine component to the second pivotable tool. The first pivotable tool and the second pivotable tool are adjusted to position the gas turbine engine component in a desired orientation. A linear tool is then moved along an axis to machine at least one crack from a surface of the gas turbine engine component.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2007Publication date: April 16, 2009Inventor: Ramon M. Velez
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Patent number: 7516526Abstract: A spun metal form used to manufacture a dual alloy turbine wheel. The spun metal form prevents braze alloy contamination of the hub/casting interface by relocating the braze joint away from the interface. The spun metal form allows for the re-working of components after failed vacuum brazing and increases the time to failure of dual alloy turbine wheels.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Derek A. Rice, Venkatesh S. Krishnan, David R. Waldman, Gary G. Capek, Devinder N. Katariya
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Publication number: 20090061153Abstract: A method and machine for manufacturing foam parts are provided. The method generally includes cutting a plurality of sections across the width of the base sheet, engaging and reorienting at least one portion of each section, and joining the portions of each section in a desired configuration to thereby form a plurality of parts. The portions can be engaged by actuator assemblies operating in successively adjacent work spaces across the width of the base sheet to simultaneously produce a plurality of similar parts. In some cases, each part includes at least one portion that is reoriented relative to another portion, such as by rotating one of the portions or adjusting one of the portions to a position that is offset from the plane of the section.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventors: Nicholas P. De Luca, Andrew B. Perkins
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Publication number: 20090031547Abstract: A method of manufacturing a computing apparatus may include providing a plurality of computer components for the computing apparatus. The computing apparatus and the plurality of computer components can be transported from an origin to a geographically distant destination with a transport vehicle. Manufacture of the computing apparatus is substantially completed during the transporting of the computing apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Christian L. Belady, Paul L. Perez
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Patent number: 7484285Abstract: A system for mating and demating a plurality of connectors mounted on a socket board with and from a plurality of corresponding connectors mounted on a motherboard includes: an adapter that is arranged above a surface opposite to the socket board surface on which the connectors are arranged and is movable in a direction in which the connectors are mated and demated; pressing means which contacts the surface of the socket board on which the semiconductor components are placed to press the socket board to the motherboard by lowering the adapter; and pulling means each of which engages with an engaging hole formed in the socket board and pulls the socket board in the direction in which the socket board is separated from the motherboard by lifting the adapter.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Advantest Corp.Inventors: Masanori Kaneko, Hiroyuki Hama, Takaji Ishikawa, Shigeru Matsumura
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Patent number: 7480973Abstract: A positioning assembly for automatically positioning a first cylindrical member for crimping to a second cylindrical member has a first plate and a second plate. The first plate has a nest to accommodate at least a portion of the first cylindrical member and/or at least a portion of the second cylindrical member. The second plate has a nest to accommodate at least a portion of the first cylindrical member and/or at least a portion of the second cylindrical member. The first plate is constructed and arranged to be separated from the second plate in a first position. In a second position the first plate is immediately adjacent to the second plate. When in the second position, the first plate and the second plate are situated such that the first cylindrical member and the second cylindrical member would be in proper placement for joining.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Miller, Chrismar Scribner
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Publication number: 20090013515Abstract: An apparatus (10) for holding lens holders includes a first board (14) and a second board (16). The first board includes a plurality of through slots (146) defined therein. The second board includes a base portion (160) and a plurality of elongated protrusions (162) for insertion in and sliding in the respective slots. The protrusions extend from the base portion. The first board and the second board are attached to each other with the protrusions inserted in the slots. The first board and the second board cooperatively form a plurality of receptacles between the first inner surfaces in the slots and the first surface of the protrusions. A platform (12) with one of the first board and the second board are secured thereon. A driving device (20) is configured for driving the other one of the first board and the second board to move relative to the one secured on the table to change a size of the receptacles.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2008Publication date: January 15, 2009Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventor: CHIEN-FENG HUANG
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Patent number: 7472465Abstract: A device for mounting any type of seat covers (10) on foam cushion parts (12) of a seat, more particularly a vehicle seat, uses gripping elements (14) which form actuation groups (16, 18, 20, 22, 24) receiving the profiled strips (26, 28, 30, 32, 34) arranged on the seat cover (10). The gripping elements pull the profiled strips (16, 18, 20, 22, 24) into channel-like recesses (44, 46, 48, 50, 52) in the foam cushion part (12) by a positioning device (42). The positioning device allows a relative movement between the foam cushion part (12) and the corresponding gripping element (14) to fix the seat cover (10) to the foam cushion part (12).Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Gottlieb Binder GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Klaus Nagele
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Patent number: 7469473Abstract: A vehicle body assembly line locator assembly (16) includes locators (18) driven by horizontal longitudinal X, horizontal sideways Y and vertical Z power operated actuators (50. 58. 72) and having locator pins (82) received by vehicle body positioning holes (84) upon upward movement to provide accurate positioning. As the locator pins (82) are moved upwardly and initially move into the vehicle body positioning holes (84 ), the horizontal power operated actuators (50,58) are back driven. The upward movement is continued so that vertical rest surfaces (80) of locator heads (78) contact the vehicle body (20) and provide lifting thereof upwardly off a system conveyor, and the power operated actuators then move the vehicle body to the proper positioning for further assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Utica Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Savoy
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Patent number: 7461442Abstract: An office chair is provided having a contoured back assembly comprising a back frame and a suspension fabric. The fabric is attached to the back frame through a spline wherein the back frame has a three-dimensional contoured shape formed by overlapped frame rings with the fabric being joined thereto by a spline. The fabric is secured to the frame by a machine wherein the fabric is first stretched from the outer edge of the fabric and then is clamped to a frame surface in the pre-tensioned or pre-streched condition. The fabric edges are allowed to hang loose and then fixed in the frame by a spline. Once secured, the fabric is unclamped from the frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: Eric Johnson, Steve Gager, Wesley D. Mersman, Larry A. Wilkerson
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Patent number: 7442024Abstract: A mold fixture 20 for safe and efficient extraction, insertion and storage of mold inserts 26, 28 is provided. The mold fixture 20 includes a lower receiving area 24 for fixedly receiving a lower mold insert 28, an upper receiving area 22 for fixedly receiving an upper mold insert 26. The mold fixture 20 facilitates insertion or extraction of the upper and lower mold inserts 26, 28 into/from a molding machine 1 in a safe and secure manner. Furthermore, the upper and lower mold inserts 26, 28 can be securely stored within the mold fixture 20 at a storage location.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Mark L. La Forest, Christopher S. Wahlers, Roger L. Klinedinst
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Publication number: 20080256776Abstract: The present invention provides an assembly apparatus for supporting a fuselage section of an aircraft or spacecraft in an adjustable assembly position, with at least one stiffening bow for detachably stiffening the fuselage section and a rotational support, which rotatably supports the at least one stiffening bow. Also provided is a method for the assembly of a fuselage section of an aircraft or spacecraft in which an assembly position of the fuselage section is prescribed. In further steps, the fuselage section is reinforced with a stiffening bow and the stiffening bow is rotatably supported. The stiffening bow is then turned in such a way that the fuselage section rotates into the assembly position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2008Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventors: Frank Neuhaus, Rainer Schildt, Volker Meiz
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Patent number: 7430793Abstract: An apparatus for securing a trim cover to a foam pad includes a base and a platform coupled thereto that defines a working surface for supporting the foam pad thereon. A plurality of actuators project from the working surface. Each actuator is capable of movement away from and toward the working surface and includes a pair of retaining fingers capable of movement between an open and closed position. In use, the retaining fingers grasp a first connecting member on the trim cover and move the first connecting member toward the working surface as the actuators are moved toward the working surface so as to engage the first connecting member with a second connecting member in the foam pad thereby securing the trim cover to the foam pad.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Larry Hamilton, Brian Zapalski, Don Hamilton, James Szura
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Patent number: 7426778Abstract: The disassembling tool (30) is constructed such that the grip 55b of the arm 55 is inclined relative to the fixed portion 55a and the bottom portion 53 downward to the base 31 at an angle ?1 (about 45° to 55°). Therefore, the vertical component Fv of the force F, which is force for pushing down the arm 55, may become larger and the horizontal component Fh of the force F may become smaller. And, the disassembling tool is prevented from slipping on the working bench S, causing easy and smooth disassembling work.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Assignee: Sanken Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hiroshi Nobusawa
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Patent number: 7421768Abstract: A fuel hose line assembling apparatus comprises a base, a transmission, a fixing member and a hose fixing jig. The base comprises at least two chutes. The transmission and the hose fixing jig are mounted on two sides of the base respectively. An adjusting screw is movably installed in the pedestal and the fixing member is mounted on one side of the adjusting screw. Therefore, the fixing member is moved on the base by the adjusting screw driving. Moreover, the fixing member has a fixture jig for putting a nut therein and the hose fixing jig clips a hose fixedly. When a user drives the transmission to move the fixing member, the nut is firmly scabbarded in the hose line.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Inventor: Chun-Pao Chiang
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Patent number: 7413368Abstract: The present invention concerns a device for fastening an emitter to a housing comprising a first, manoeuvre element (10) being slidable in a first direction (11, B), a second, activating element (20) being slidable in a second, fastening direction (21) being inclined in relation to said first direction (11, B), whereby the first and second elements (10, 20) are interconnected via at least one cam mechanism (50). Moreover, the device further comprises a third, fastening element (30) being slidable in the second direction (21), whereby the second and third elements (20, 30) are interconnected via at least one fourth, elastic element (40), whereby the third element (30) is adapted to move, in response to displacement of the first element (10) in said first direction (11, B), between a fastening position in which it produces a fastening force onto said emitter (1) and an open position in which the fastening force is released.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2004Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.Inventors: Lars Ake Naslund, Tommy Nilsson, Luca Poppi
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Patent number: 7410155Abstract: A clamp for clamping and sealing a flexible or deformable conduit extending between a supply and a receiving or holding container. The clamp includes upper and lower sections that can be moved from an open to a closed position. In a closed position the clamp engages the flexible tube or conduit and seals the same, thereby preventing fluid from passing past the seal. The clamp includes two half sections, and can be cut and separated such that each half section clamps and seals a portion of the flexible or deformable conduit or tube. In use, the clamp is typically used to clamp and seal a flexible tube, such as a silicon tube extending between a supply and a receiving container of the type employed in handling biopharmaceutical fluids.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2005Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Inventor: Charles J. Spain, III
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Patent number: 7406766Abstract: An apparatus (10) of the present invention is designed for assembling a load floor (12) having a peripheral slot (22) and an overlaying layer (24, 28). The apparatus (10) tucks the overhang of the overlaying layer (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22). At least one holding device (52) holds the load floor (12). At least one tucking tool (54) tucks the overhang of the overlaying layer (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22) to fold the overhang over the peripheral slot (22) and thereafter tucking the overhang into the peripheral slot (22). The invention includes a method of sequentially folding and thereafter tucking the overhang of the overlaying layers (24, 28) into the peripheral slot (22).Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2004Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: BBI Enterprises, L.P.Inventors: Michael Levesque, Steven G Brown, Guy W Boitos, Karem Akawi
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Patent number: 7401396Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of making microstructured laminae for replication and apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to machining V-shaped grooves on individual lamina forming cube-corner microstructures.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2006Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Lars A. Smeenk, Conrad V. Anderson, Nelson D. Sewall, Kenneth L. Smith
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Patent number: 7401392Abstract: An exemplary embodiment provides one or more improvements which makes it possible for a single person to easily install a garbage disposal under a sink. Embodiments include a base with wheels, a hydraulic jack attached to the base, an extensible column extended by the hydraulic jack, and a platform attached to the extensible column. The garbage disposer is placed on the platform and the installation tool is moved under the sink, the jack is used to raise and support the platform and the garbage disposal in position for attachment to the sink.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Innoplumb LLPInventor: Kent D. Ramsey
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Patent number: 7383623Abstract: A vent connection assembly for use in the installation of a vent on an exterior wall of a building and interconnection with a conduit in the interior of the building, including a first plate having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the vent, a second plate having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the vent, a deformable member defining a periphery, the deformable member having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the vent and being positioned between the first plate and the second plate, and a mechanism for drawing said first plate and said second plate together after said deformable member has been inserted into the vent, thereby deforming said deformable member and extending said deformable member radially to frictionally engage the vent. A method of installing a vent on an exterior wall of a building and connecting the vent to conduit within the interior of a building using the vent connection assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Inventor: Pawel R. Kozik
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Patent number: 7377503Abstract: The disclosed clamp device for clamping blank pieces may comprise a mounting table, first and second clamping units, positioning units, and lock units. The mounting table is for placing thereon first and second blank pieces. The first and second clamping units have respective clamp plates that are able to be put on the first and second blank pieces while permitting a guided movement of the first and second blank pieces on the mounting table. The positioning units move the first and second blank pieces to establish a positioning of the first and second blank pieces on the mounting table. The lock units apply a given force to the first and second clamp plates to lock the first and second blank pieces.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masatoshi Yajima, Shouhei Imai, Norio Kawano, Masamichi Miwa
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Patent number: 7370398Abstract: A new and improved method for calibrating workpiece clamping mechanisms such that once a particular clamping mechanism is calibrated with respect to a particular workpiece to be clamped upon a support surface, the clamping mechanism will always clamp the workpiece with a predetermined, precisely repeatable clamping force. In addition, the method of the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with the calibration of a plurality of clamping mechanisms so as to enable the plurality of clamping mechanisms to always generate the same precise clamping force whereby the multiple clamping mechanisms, utilized to clamp a single workpiece upon a support surface, can in fact clamp different regions of the single workpiece with precisely the same predetermined clamping force such that all regions of the single workpiece are in fact securely clamped.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Anatoly Gosis, Richard L. Edwards, Howard W. Kimball, Anthony Brent Marshall
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Publication number: 20080104816Abstract: This invention is directed to a method and apparatus for attaching webbing to a furniture frame. The apparatus includes a frame, a mounting assembly, and a webbing attachment assembly. The mounting assembly includes a clamping mechanism and a rack. The clamping mechanism is coupled to a lower portion of the frame while the rack is coupled to an intermediate portion of the frame. The clamping mechanism and rack are adapted to receive at least one furniture frame and hold the furniture frame in place. The webbing attachment assembly is coupled to the frame and is adapted to position the webbing relative to the at least one furniture frame to enable the webbing to be attached to the furniture frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Applicant: L & P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANYInventor: ROGER TORNERO
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Publication number: 20080052890Abstract: A hydraulic subassembly is preassembled outside the vehicle into which it is later installed, using an assembly tool. The components of the subassembly are fastened in predetermined positions on the assembly tool, following which hydraulic connections are made between the components. The completed subassembly is fastened to a pickup tool and then disconnected from the assembly tool, allowing an assembly operator to lift the subassembly away from the assembly tool and carry it to the vehicle for installation. The pickup tool is also used to position and hold the subassembly within the vehicle while the subassembly is being connected to hydraulic systems on the vehicle. Following installation of the subassembly, the pickup tool is unfastened from the subassembly and removed from the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventors: Hieu T. Le, Raymond J. Slesinski
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Patent number: 7334307Abstract: A disposable set screw system which comprises inserting the set screw to the desired depth, removing the excess shank portion, and multiple methods for removal of the set screw when desired that in turn improves efficiencies over fixture setup of prior art.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Tomasz K Helenowski
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Patent number: 7334306Abstract: An apparatus enables a turbine nozzle, including at least two turbine nozzle singlets to be fabricated. Each singlet includes inner and outer bands and a vane extending therebetween. The vane also includes first and second sidewalls coupled together at a leading edge and a trailing edge. The apparatus comprises a fixture, and at least two support members extending from the fixture. Each support member has first and second abutment surfaces, wherein a first of the at least two support members contacts at least one of the leading and trailing edges of a first of the vanes. At least two locating features extend from the fixture, wherein a first of the locating features contacts one of the first and second sidewalls of the first vane. At least two biasing members are coupled to the fixture, wherein a first of the biasing members biases the first vane against the first locating feature.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Michael Beverley, Leslie Eugene Leeke, Jr.
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Patent number: 7331097Abstract: A workpiece chuck includes an upper assembly on which can be mounted a flat workpiece such as a semiconductor wafer. A lower assembly is mountable to a base that supports the chuck. A non-constraining attachment means such as vacuum, springs or resilient washers applied to the chuck holds the upper assembly to the lower assembly, the lower assembly to the base and can hold the wafer to the top surface of the upper assembly. By holding the chuck together by non-constraining means, the chuck layers can move continuously relative to each other under expansion forces caused by temperature effects, such that mechanical stresses on the chuck and resulting deformation of the chuck and workpiece over temperature are substantially eliminated. A plurality of support members including inclined surfaces provided between an upper and lower portion of the chuck maintain the top surface of the chuck and any workpiece mounted thereon at a constant height over temperature.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Temptronic CorporationInventors: William M. Stone, Robert Lopez
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Patent number: 7308747Abstract: A small-scale positioning device employing a platform, a levering mechanism and a floating actuator device. The platform is movably attached to a fixed frame by a lever, a pair of levers, or more. The floating actuator device is coupled between at least one lever and the platform. When the actuator device is activated, it generates a force on the platform and an equal but opposite force on the levering mechanism, causing one or more levers to rotate around their respective fulcrums, thereby controlling the position of the movable platform relative to the fixed frame. The amount of displacement of the platform is dependent upon the effective expansion or contraction of the actuator device and the lever ratio. If the pair of levers are symmetrical, then motion is created in only a single degree of motion. Flexures may be included to prevent motion in unwanted directions.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Insitutec, Inc.Inventors: Stuart T. Smith, Shane C. Woody
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Publication number: 20070277360Abstract: Apparatus for mounting a blade on an ice resurfacing machine is disclosed and comprises a frame, a tray and a jack. The frame is wheeled for movement across a floor surface. The tray is for supporting the blade, has an upper side and is capable of supporting said blade during use of the apparatus so that the blade from front to rear edges thereof extends at an acute angle to the floor, at which angle said blade is suitably orientated for attachment to said machine. The jack is mounted on the frame, supports the tray and is adapted to move the tray between a lowered position, whereat the blade can be arranged on the tray at said acute angle, and an elevated position, whereat the blade can be secured to said machine when the apparatus is operatively positioned beneath said machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2007Publication date: December 6, 2007Inventors: Stanley Frank POGORZELSKI, Todd Francis Knechtel
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Patent number: 7302753Abstract: A method and apparatus for the safe and easy installation of wall-mounted electrical outlets and switches utilizing a multi-functional tool. Two different but similar tools are provided, each in the form of an insulated handle that may be detachably engaged with either a wall socket or a wall switch. The wall socket device includes one or more prongs for temporary engagement with slots in the socket fixture, and may include testing circuitry. The wall switch device is temporarily attached to a switch fixture using one or more magnets. Both tools may also include built-in electrical wire measuring, stripping and bending structures.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventors: Bryan Cahill, Deborah Unser
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Patent number: 7300041Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an alternator for testing uses a supporting pin mounted to extend in a first direction relative to the alternator. A first holding pin extends in a second direction relative to the alternator, and has two ends with a first end having a bore therethrough sized to receive the first holding pin to pivot about the supporting pin and a second end having a threaded portion, with a first shoulder being disposed on the first holding pin between the first end and the second end. A first nut is adapted to engage the threaded portion to trap the alternator between the shoulder and the first nut when the nut is tightened.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: SPX CorporationInventors: Scott Opsahl, Jason Murphy, George Walter
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Patent number: 7293349Abstract: Various models of engines and transmissions can be installed in an engine room model in a relatively easy manner. As a result, efficiency of inspecting the engine room is optimized by using the engine room model and various potential problems which may occur in a mass production of vehicles are discovered and can be prevented in advance.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Oh-Young Kim
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Patent number: 7287309Abstract: A tool is provided for the safe, efficient installation and removal of clutch assemblies and other engine components on heavy trucks or other machines. A mounting bracket is bolted to the flywheel housing to hold the tool in place and provide support for lifting. Mounting brackets in different sizes may be used for flywheel housings of different sizes. A clutch assembly may then be placed over a removable splined clutch shaft in the correct size for that clutch assembly. An input shaft may be slid manually back and forth through a position rail to provide horizontal motion for moving the clutch assembly toward or away from the flywheel housing. A slack adjuster provides precise rotational movement about the axis of the input shaft for raising or lowering the clutch assembly to the correct height. A lift extender provides additional motion for moving the clutch assembly into or out of position.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2005Date of Patent: October 30, 2007Inventor: Lawrence J. Brazil
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Patent number: 7278194Abstract: A tool, in particular a shaft tool, is inserted into and fixed in a clamping chuck. The actual position of the tool, particularly in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tool or in the direction of insertion, is determined before and/or during the insertion of the tool into the clamping chuck. Based on the determined actual position, the tool is inserted into the clamping chuck until a setpoint position has been reached.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2003Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignees: E. Zoller GmbH & Co. KG, Einstell- und MessgeraeteInventor: Christian Pfau
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Patent number: 7278198Abstract: A mandrel segment loader provides a reliable means of assembling the segments of a large multi-piece mandrel designed for the lay-up of composite materials in the manufacture of large structures such as one-piece fuselage barrels for wide-body aircraft and can also be used for removing the mandrel from the finished fuselage barrel by disassembling the segments. The mandrel segment loader provides transport and multi-axis positioning for the segments, which may weigh as much as 25,000 pounds, with linear positioning resolution in the realm of 0.002 inch and rotational positioning resolution in the realm of 0.005 degree. The mandrel segment loader is also more generally useful as a material handling system that can perform many useful manufacturing functions, such as loading passenger floors into a fuselage barrel when assembling an aircraft. Self-locking grippers prevent accidental self-release of a load.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Vincent T. Olson, Richard E. Koppelmann, Peter Berntsson, Johnny Pettersson
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Patent number: 7275293Abstract: A fuel line assembly tool and method for repairing or creating replacement fuel lines. An exemplary embodiment of this tool uses a squeeze operated plunger to insert a fitting into a length of synthetic flexible tubing by holding the parts and plunger in alignment for accurate and direct insertion. Another exemplary embodiment uses specially adapted fittings assembled in a kit for use in creating replacement fuel lines.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: S.U.R. & R. Auto Parts Inc.Inventor: Joseph Wathey
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Patent number: 7275294Abstract: A parts holding device that includes a holder with a row of spaced-apart cavities, within which parts may be disposed. A bar containing a plurality of spaced-apart permanent magnets is movably mounted to the holder and is disposed parallel to the row of the cavities. The bar is movable in the direction of the row of the cavities between first and second positions. When the bar is in the first position, the magnets are aligned with the cavities and the magnetic attraction forces generated by the magnets hold the parts in the cavities, and when the bar is in the second position, the magnets are not aligned with the cavities and the magnetic attraction forces generated by the magnets do not hold the parts in the cavities. The parts holding device is connected to a movable mounting structure for movement therewith. The bar is biased to the first position and is moved to the second position by movement of the bar against a cam surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: David K. Okuley
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Patent number: 7269886Abstract: A ladder station supporting device is provided which includes an upper holder assembly having an upper mounting body and a first vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the upper mounting body; a lower holder assembly having a lower mounting body and a second vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the lower mounting body; and a vertically-oriented articulation rod interconnecting the upper and lower holder assemblies, wherein the upper holder assembly may be adjustably positioned along an axis defined by the articulation rod.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2003Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: 3 Day Blinds, Inc.Inventors: Rafael C. Lopez, Chin Chu Yeit
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Patent number: 7269901Abstract: An apparatus and methods of use thereof are provided for improved manufacturing of window and door frames. In particular, the present invention provides an apparatus that can improve efficiency and reduce manpower in manufacturing of window and door frames by being able to accommodate whole assembled window or door frames without manual assistance and by incorporating and utilizing multiple machining tools for machining of multiple surfaces of window and door frames. Correspondingly, the use of the apparatus of the present invention permits the practical use of an unconventional process for manufacturing window and door frames that can reduce wastage of materials.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Inventor: Aurele Robin
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Patent number: 7264215Abstract: The inventive technology relates to methods and apparatus for providing supplemental support for items used in manual tasks and may include one or more of the following features: a supplemental support apparatus, a supplemental support method, techniques for providing supplemental support in a compact manner, techniques for providing supplemental support in a variably-adjustable manner, techniques for correlating supplemental support to an overall workspace height, techniques for maintaining a parallel support surface through a variable-adjustment range, and techniques for retaining an item on a support surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Western Heat, LLCInventor: Pete N. Niehoff
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Patent number: 7263162Abstract: Sample mounts (10) for mounting microcrystals of biological macromolecules for X-ray crystallography are prepared by using patterned thin polyimide films (12) that have curvature imparted thereto, for example, by being attached to a curved outer surface of a small metal rod (16). The patterned film (12) preferably includes a tapered tip end (24) for holding a crystal. Preferably, a small sample aperture is disposed in the film for reception of the crystal. A second, larger aperture can also be provided that is connected to the sample aperture by a drainage channel, allowing removal of excess liquid and easier manipulation in viscous solutions. The curvature imparted to the film (12) increases the film's rigidity and allows a convenient scoop-like action for retrieving crystals. The polyimide contributes minimally to background and absorption, and can be treated to obtain desired hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Thorne, Zachary Stum, Kevin O'Neill, Jan Kmetko
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Patent number: 7243904Abstract: A door lifting apparatus includes a frame and a lift mechanism. The lift mechanism includes a slide and a lever. The slide includes a plurality of holders and a plurality of glides, wherein the holders are operable to engage and support a door while the glides cooperate with rails provided upon the frame to guide the slide along the rails. Pivotal movement of the lever moves the slide vertically relative to the upright supports, thereby raising or lowering the door.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Mark Grimes
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Patent number: 7237328Abstract: Production and/or installation device for producing and/or installing a workpiece, with a device frame and a workpiece support table, which has several workpiece supports and is rotating with respect to one or more stationary work stations and can be moved in synchronized fashion, and with a driving mechanism for driving the one or more workstations, which driving mechanism has a motor and at least one essentially vertically movable coupling element, the movement of which is coupled indirectly with the motor and with which a driver of a work station is or can be coupled, the driving mechanism having a working shaft, which is disposed vertically and can be rotated by the motor, with a guiding device, with which the movement of the coupling element is coupled and over which the vertical movement of the coupling element is controlled.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Feintool International HoldingInventor: Sigmund Kumeth
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Patent number: 7225516Abstract: A fixture is provided for supporting a vehicle hub assembly during manufacturing operations that include rotating the assembly. The fixture includes a base with an upper surface, a linearly movable housing slidably supported on the base, an adjustable support block defining two selectable bores, each for slidably receiving a stud from one of two corresponding hub assembly types, and a handle for sliding the housing along the base. An operator checks the type of hub assembly to be worked on and rotates the support block if necessary to select the proper bore. The operator then slides the housing, causing the bore in the support block to slidably engage the stud. Each bore is configured within the support block so as to be accurately aligned with a stud on a corresponding hub assembly when supported in a jig, thus, allowing repeated fixture and hub assembly engagement without any additional adjustments.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Meridith Grimsley, Terry Coker