Assisting Assembly Or Disassembly Patents (Class 29/407.1)
  • Patent number: 11617667
    Abstract: A prosthesis socket having a proximal insertion opening and an inner circumference which at least partially surrounds a limb stump, at least one connection device for a prosthesis component, which is connectable to the prosthesis socket, at least one actuator operable to change the inner circumference of the prosthesis socket, and at least one sensor coupled to a control device, wherein the control device is connected to the actuator and activates or deactivates same, depending on the received sensor signals, and to a method for adjusting the inner circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: OTTOBOCK SE & CO. KGAA
    Inventors: Christian Will, Lars Benjamin Finke, Sebastian Betz
  • Patent number: 11598954
    Abstract: Emissive micro-pixel spatial light modulators with non-telecentric emission are introduced. The individual light emission from each multi-color micro-scale emissive pixel is directionally modulated in a unique direction to enable application-specific non-telecentric emission pattern from the micro-pixel array of the emissive spatial light modulator. Design methods for directionally modulating the light emission of the individual micro-pixels using micro-pixel level optics are described. Monolithic wafer level optics methods for fabricating the micro-pixel level optics are also described. An emissive multi-color micro-pixel spatial light modulator with non-telecentric emission is used to exemplify the methods and possible applications of the present invention: ultra-compact image projector, minimal cross-talk 3D light field display, multi-view 2D display, and directionally modulated waveguide optics for see-through near-eye displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Ostendo Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Hussein S. El-Ghoroury, Mahesh Pitchumani, Zahir Alpaslan, Chih-Li Chuang, Dale McNeill
  • Patent number: 11597085
    Abstract: Current technologies allow a robot to acquire a tool only if the tool is in a set known location, such as in a rack. In an embodiment, a method and corresponding system, can determine the previously unknown pose of a tool freely placed in an environment. The method can then calculate a trajectory that allows for a robot to move from its current position to the tool and attach with the tool. In such a way, tools can be located and used by a robot when placed at any location in an environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. S. Johnson, Syler Wagner, Justin Rooney, Steven Lines, Anthony Tayoun, Mitchell Hebert
  • Patent number: 11540975
    Abstract: A device is provided that accommodates elongate receptacles and charges. The device includes a superior surface, a first positioning device, a detaining device, and either a pusher or a second positioning device. The first positioning device is adapted and arranged to accommodate a pairing of a charge and a corresponding elongate receptacle. The pusher is moveable along a direction towards the superior surface to introduce the charge into the elongate receptacle. The second positioning device accommodates the pusher with the second positioning device and the pusher being moveable along the direction towards the superior surface to introduce the charge into the elongate receptacle. The detaining device limits the extent of movement of the pusher towards the superior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: SCHOTT Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Arne Kloke, Anil-Kumar Busimi, Dominique Bauert
  • Patent number: 11466481
    Abstract: An outer door panel and an inner door panel are fixed to one another defining a cavity therebetween. A door handle assembly is fixedly attached to the outer door panel, with at least a portion of the door handle assembly overlaying an inboard surface of the outer door panel within the cavity. An inboard portion of the door handle assembly has a connection structure. An upwardly extending bracket within the cavity is fixed to an upper end and a lower end of at least one of the inner door panel or the outer door panel. The upwardly extending bracket is spaced apart from the door handle assembly. A vibration absorbing member has a first end fixed to the connection structure of the door handle assembly and a second end attached to the upwardly extending bracket at a location spaced apart from upper and lower ends of the upwardly extending bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Yoshio Muta, David Kovie, Richard Dryja, Mahiuddin Ahmed
  • Patent number: 11391315
    Abstract: A precision threaded locator fastener bushing includes a driver portion, an exterior precision locating surface, an interior precision locating surface, and an exterior threaded portion. The precision threaded locator fastener bushing allows various fastening and precision locating devices to be precisely located relative to a fixture plate. The driver portion includes a ten-point driver configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Elijah Tooling, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard V. Miller
  • Patent number: 11219938
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for joining metal sheets resting on one another with a variable total thickness by a clinching device comprising at least one punch and a die arranged coaxially to the punch. The punch is controllable by an electronic control unit and movable in an axial direction relative to the die. The metal sheets are arranged in a plane between the punch and the die, and the penetration depth necessary for joining the metal sheets is adjustable. Before joining the metal sheets, the current total thickness is determined with the aid of the control unit and the penetration depth is set depending on the total thickness. The method includes: storing a number of different total thicknesses or total thickness ranges in the control unit, assigning a penetration depth to a total thickness or to a total thickness range, and calibrating the clinching device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: ECKOLD GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Florian Unger
  • Patent number: 10953940
    Abstract: A method of adjusting a panel on a vehicle includes determining positions of mounting sites on a body frame in relation to 2-way and 4-way master locator holes and calculating a position of an inner perimeter of a panel opening in the body frame in relation to the body frame mounting sites. Positions of mounting sites on the panel in relation to 2-way and 4-way locator pins on a fixture the panel is mounted to are also determined and a position of an outer perimeter of the panel in relation to the panel mounting sites is calculated. The panel is mounted to the body frame and a calculated position of the outer perimeter of the panel in relation to the inner perimeter of the panel opening is displayed to a fitter in real time who uses the calculated position to adjust the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Hossein Jacob Sadri, Steve Juszczyk, John Emmott Olson, Lance David Marsac, Andrew Louis Pawlak
  • Patent number: 10760607
    Abstract: A joining method is a method of joining a plate set composed by a plurality of stacked plate members including a first plate member and a second plate member by using a tapping screw. When the tapping screw is advanced into the plate set while the tapping screw is rotated in a state of applying a pressure onto the plate set so as to form through-holes in the first plate member and the second plate member, a first pressure applied onto the tapping screw is reduced down to a second pressure at the time when the tapping screw penetrates the first plate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Iwano, Kosuke Sakurai
  • Patent number: 10723498
    Abstract: A patch applicator arrangement for securing a patch over a hole in a vehicle part. The arrangement provides a robotic arm having at least one movable joint that allows the robotic arm to move about several axes. At the end of the robotic arm is a spindle that has several spring loaded patch applicators connected. The arrangement also includes a patch dispensing apparatus that the arrangements uses along with the robotic arm to place patches over holes in a vehicle part. The arrangement also provides a verification method to make sure the holes have been properly covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignees: TAIKISHA LTD., Encore Automation LLC
    Inventor: Cameron J. Moore
  • Patent number: 10632971
    Abstract: An automated grommet installer and methods of installing a grommet. The installer and methods are capable of seating a grommet in an aperture of a window and facilitating correct alignment of the grommet within the window. Grommets are used to support and seal around a window wiper attached to a window. Typically, grommets are asymmetrical to match the curvature of the window. Embodiments of the described installer maintain grommet orientation while inserting the grommet in the window, quickly and efficiently installing the grommet. In embodiments the installer includes a system for identifying an incorrectly loaded grommet prior to installation and alerting an operator. In other embodiments, the installer includes a positioner that positions the grommet proximate to the window for installation and a gripper having one or more fingers reach through the window aperture, engage the grommet, and draw it into position, seated in the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventors: Connor Cassady, Kevin Gearhart
  • Patent number: 10479477
    Abstract: In one aspect, there is an engagement member for splicing a spar assembly in an aircraft wing including a joining portion having a first attachment for connecting to a first spar and a second attachment surface for connecting to a second spar; and a rib post extending from the joining portion and disposed between the first attachment surface and the second attachment surface. In an embodiment, the rib post is integral to the joining portion and is configured to couple with a rib web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: James E. King, James E. Kooiman, Charles D. Hogue
  • Patent number: 10391543
    Abstract: A single piece pulsed flow wing assembly method providing for horizontal wing manufacture is accomplished using synchronized automated vehicles guided in a predetermined manner to move and, locate wing structure in a plurality of assembly positions. Multi-axis assembly positioning systems (MAPS) are used at each assembly position to support and index components in the wing structure and determinant assembly techniques are used for indexing of the components. Modular automated manufacturing processes employing magnetic assembly clamping, drilling, fastener insertion, and sealant application are employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Philip W. Boyd, John W. Hall, Clayton L. Munk, James C. Roberts, Michael J. Fant, Richard D. Fiedler, Barry A. Lewis, Samuel R. Dobbs, Gary E. Mansell
  • Patent number: 10272530
    Abstract: A method for assembly manufacturing may include the steps of: (1) positioning, by a material-handling system, an unassembled workpiece in a first assembly position within a tacking cell, (2) performing, by a first plurality of fastening machines, a tack fastening operation on the unassembled workpiece to form a partially assembled workpiece, (3) transferring, by the material-handling system, the partially assembled workpiece from the tacking cell to a fastening cell, (4) positioning, by the material-handling system, the partially assembled workpiece in a second assembly position within the fastening cell, and (5) performing, by a second plurality of fastening machines, a final fastening operation on the partially assembled workpiece to form an assembled workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Eric M. Reid, Matthew R. Desjardien, Edward J. Batt, Antonio C. Micale
  • Patent number: 10162323
    Abstract: In a component mounting system having an inspection device performing a mounting inspection after component mounting, a correction value for correcting a mounting program is calculated based on board inspection information including fed-back component position deviation information, a component is mounted on a board in accordance with the mounting program corrected based on the calculated correction value, and a “present value” based on most recent board inspection information and a “pre-correction evaluation value” are displayed together on an evaluation value display screen as evaluation values representing accuracy at a time of the mounting based on the board inspection information during this component mounting work, the “pre-correction evaluation value” being calculated based on a temporary position deviation amount pertaining to a case where it is assumed that no correction based on the calculated correction value has been performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiro Taniguchi, Masafumi Inoue, Satoshi Furuichi, Masahiro Kihara
  • Patent number: 9706099
    Abstract: Disclosed is a camera module and a camera apparatus having the same. The camera apparatus includes: a substrate; and a camera module passing through the substrate, and including a lens disposed forward of the substrate and a sensor unit disposed rearward of the substrate. An optical axis is not bent in the camera apparatus so that the accuracy of an image signal is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ki Seok Jung
  • Patent number: 9669919
    Abstract: Highly integrated infused box made of composite material with two skins (3), several ribs (4), several stringers (5), a front spar and a rear spar, comprising a first semibox (1) and a second semibox (2) joined by connecting means, in which the first semibox (1) comprises one skin (3) and the ribs (4), and the second semibox (2) comprises one skin (3), the front spar, the rear spar and the stringers (5). A manufacturing method is also provided, which comprises forming processes for the first semibox (1), the second semibox (2) and an assembly process of the first semibox (1) with the second semibox (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus Operations S.L.
    Inventors: Diego García Martín, Lara Barroso Fernández, Pablo Cebolla Garrofe, David Alfonso Cerezo Arce, Ignacio José Márquez López
  • Patent number: 9576078
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of generating an interior surface of a vehicle compartment. A selection from the user is received for one of a plurality of identifiers of the general template and a selection from the user is received for a desired location of an exterior surface of a specific vehicle to associate general criteria for the selected one of the identifiers with exterior surface data of the selected desired location. Interior surface data of the selected desired location is determined as a function of the general criteria of the selected one of the identifiers and the exterior surface data of the selected desired location. The interior surface representing the interior surface data of the configuration of the specific vehicle corresponding to the general criteria of the selected one of the identifiers and the exterior surface data of the selected desired location is displayed on the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Tasie N. Backos
  • Patent number: 9515469
    Abstract: A vacuum feed-through assembly and a method for manufacturing the same including a conductor having a threaded outer diameter end, a plastic seal having a threaded inner diameter matching the threaded outer diameter end of the conductor, and an epoxy to epoxy bond the threaded inner diameter of the plastic seal to the threaded outer diameter end of the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Evangelos Trifon Laskaris, Gene Conte, Susumu Mine
  • Patent number: 9452500
    Abstract: A system for assembly manufacturing may include at least one tacking cell configured to perform at least one tack fastening operation on a workpiece, at least one fastening cell configured to perform at least one final fastening operation on the workpiece and a material-handling system linking the tacking cell and the fastening cell, wherein the material-handling system positions the workpiece within the tacking cell and wherein the material-handling system transfers the workpiece from the tacking cell to the fastening cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Eric M. Reid, Matthew R. Desjardien, Edward J. Batt, Antonio C. Micale
  • Patent number: 9423010
    Abstract: In this manufacturing method, when a plurality of planetary shaft main bodies are arranged at even intervals around a sun shaft main body, a state in which a sun threaded section is engaged with each of planetary threaded sections is referred to as a regular assembled state, and an assembly formed by a combination of the sun shaft main body and the planetary shaft main body in the regular assembled state is referred to as a first assembly. The first assembly is assembled in a state in which the relationship of the planetary shaft main body and the sun shaft main body is in correspondence with the relationship of the planetary shaft main body and the sun shaft main body in the regular assembled state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yasuo Kinoshita, Masakazu Kurihara, Hideo Saito, Motohiro Tsuzuki
  • Patent number: 9420074
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of installing a component in an electronic device is described. A light source shines a light through an aperture of on one end of the electronic device. A light sensor positioned on the opposite end moves with a fixture having the component. When the light sensor determines a central portion of the light, the fixture and the component may be aligned with the aperture of the electronic device, and the fixture installs the component. In another embodiment, a method of detecting proper installment of the component is described. A microphone may be used to detect sound transmission from a speaker which transmits sound through the aperture. If the microphone detects sounds from an interface region between the component and the housing, the component is not properly installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Colin M. Ely, David Glenn Havskjold, Emery A. Sanford, Tyson Benner Manullang
  • Patent number: 9340244
    Abstract: A zero flush system includes a body provided with a plurality of transfer paths, a plurality of solenoid bars movably inserted into the transfer paths and a solenoid bar in the plurality of solenoid bars having one end closely adhered to a vehicle body panel or a door panel, a plurality of solenoids disposed in the transfer paths and transferring the solenoid bars at a time of applying power to the solenoids and a control device controlling the transferring of the solenoid bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Sang Kyu Park
  • Patent number: 9126470
    Abstract: In an aspect, the invention is directed to a door assembly for a vehicle, that includes an outer panel, an inner panel and a carrier/intrusion member assembly. The outer panel and the inner panel are connected together to form a door panel structure, and together define a door cavity. The carrier/intrusion member assembly includes a carrier and an intrusion member connected to the carrier and mounted to the door panel structure. The carrier/intrusion member assembly further includes a plurality of door hardware components mounted to at least one of the carrier and the intrusion member. The hardware components extend into the door cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Magna Closures Inc.
    Inventors: Eric V. Kaliomaki, Raymond Edward Fortin, James J. Ferri
  • Publication number: 20150147151
    Abstract: Methods for the positioning of equipment are disclosed. One method of the present disclosure can include substantially aligning an equipment support structure with an equipment fixture point of a casing structure; adjusting the equipment support structure to have a selected height and a selected angle; sliding the equipment support structure across a platform having the selected height and the selected angle to reach the equipment fixture point; and coupling a piece of equipment to one of the equipment support structure and the equipment fixture point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Alan Mogle, II, Kyle Joseph Conger, Michael Alan Davi, Stuart Craig Hanson, Robert Joseph Rohrssen
  • Publication number: 20150145231
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bicycle that includes a frame that is specifically design to accommodate different axle configurations. The bicycle includes a wheel including a wheel axle and a bicycle frame comprising a wheel support including an axle opening having a first width and an axle slot contiguous with the axle opening and having a second width less than the first width. Preferably, a portion of the wheel axle positioned in the axle opening has a diameter that substantially matches the first width. The present invention also provides a method of changing an original wheel of a bicycle. The method comprises removing the original wheel from the wheel support, positioning a converter in the axle opening, providing a replacement wheel having a replacement hub that has a replacement axle, and sliding the replacement axle through the axle slot and into the receiving area defined by the converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason S. McDonald, Jeremy Thompson
  • Publication number: 20150135430
    Abstract: The invention relates to a waste fitting including a waste pan means into which waste can flow, at least one part of the waste pan means allowing visual inspection therethrough. During installation, an opening of the waste outlet can be located by visual inspection through the or each at least one part of the waste pan means, enabling a suitable position to be determined for forming and or positioning of at least one aperture in the waste pan means. The at least one aperture is formed such that, in use, waste that flows into the waste pan means can exit through the or each at least one aperture towards the opening in the waste outlet. The invention also relates to a method of installing a waste fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Philip John Muirhead
  • Patent number: 9032633
    Abstract: A portable device is used to aid a semi-truck driver in the repositioning of a tandem axle assembly of a trailer. The portable device may be easily attached and removed from the trailer's sub-frame during operation. The device will signal the driver visually when reaching the desired position during adjustment of the tandem axle assembly to a new location. The device may reduce time and increase safety for the driver during the tandem axle assembly repositioning operation. The device may be positioned at or near the desired tandem axle assembly position. A flap may pivotally hang in a position where a tire from the tandem axle assembly may deflect and pivot the flap when the tandem axle assembly reaches its desired position. A driver may see this flap deflection and know, with certainty, that they have achieved the desired tandem axle assembly position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: Steven C. Pittman
  • Patent number: 9032603
    Abstract: While a second component is brought into contact with a first component, the first component and the second component are rotated with respect to each other around a specific rotation axis, and rotation of the first component and the second component is stopped when a moment created around the rotation axis exceeds a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yuya Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9027243
    Abstract: A method of replacing a wind turbine blade includes suspending the wind turbine blade from support hub of a wind turbine, connecting one or more cable climbing members between the support hub and the wind turbine blade, and lowering the one or more cable climbing members and the wind turbine blade from the support hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ulrich Werner Neumann, Charles Van Buchan, Blake Allen Fulton, Vishan Rashmi Kulasekera, Bradley Graham Moore, Esat Sadi Yenigun
  • Publication number: 20150121674
    Abstract: There is described a method for terminating an optical fiber within a proximal portion of a guidewire tubing. The guidewire tubing has an outside diameter and comprises a lumen. The method comprises centering the optical fiber relative to the outside diameter of the proximal portion of the guidewire tubing. The optical fiber and the inside of the lumen define an average gap there between. The average gap around the optical fiber is between 1 ?m and 100 ?m for allowing a substantial displacement of the optical fiber inside the lumen during the centering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Claude Belleville, Sébastien Lalancette, Alain Proulx
  • Publication number: 20150121673
    Abstract: A device for effecting and verifying a full mating operable engagement between a slidable coupler and a complementary corresponding socket. The coupler and the complementary corresponding socket are received into a receiving region defined between first and second opposing sidewall portions which squeeze the coupler and the complementary corresponding socket together to effect the full mating operable engagement from a partial mating engagement relationship. A method for use of the device to verifying a full mating operable engagement between a slidable coupler and a complementary corresponding socket is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Gavin Victor Charles Richards, Scott Alexander Baker
  • Patent number: 9016284
    Abstract: A cutting apparatus and an associated method for slitting a tobacco sheet material into cut pieces used to form smoking articles are provided. The cutting apparatus includes a rotatable cutter assembly having a drum member configured to rotate about an axis defined thereby. The cutter assembly includes a plurality of knife members disposed about the periphery of the drum member and extending radially therefrom. A fixed counter-knife assembly is disposed adjacent to the periphery of the drum member and is configured to interact with the rotatable cutter assembly during rotation thereof about the axis. The counter-knife assembly includes a ledger member having a plurality of cutting insert members removably engaged therewith. The cutting insert members are configured to interact with the knife members during rotation of the cutter assembly with respect to the counter-knife assembly so as to slit the tobacco sheet material received therebetween into cut pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
    Inventors: Timothy Franklin Tilley, James Phillip Hollandsworth, Terry Leonard Bullins, Mark Allen Vernon
  • Publication number: 20150110553
    Abstract: A carrier assembly for attaching a magnet to a shaft of a valve assembly includes a carrier housing having a magnet holder portion, a shaft holder portion, and a plurality of fingers extending from the shaft holder portion. The carrier assembly includes a locking collar wherein the collar is installed over the carrier housing and moved from a open position to a closed position. The collar is further moved to a locked position to lock the carrier assembly to the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Salvador Hernandez-Oliver, Suraj K. Alva
  • Patent number: 9009952
    Abstract: An apparatus for assembling a lens module and an image sensor to form a camera module. The apparatus comprises i) a positioning system for adjusting a relative arrangement between the lens module and the image sensor; and ii) an inspection system operative to view fiducials of the lens modules and the image sensor. In particular, the positioning system is configured to align the lens module and the image sensor based on a relative alignment of the respective fiducials of the lens module and the image sensor as viewed by the inspection system. A method of assembling a lens module and an image sensor to form a camera module is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: ASM Technology Singapore Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Po Lam Au, Ming Lok Yeung, Tung Yeung Tsoi, Yu Luen Suen
  • Patent number: 8997469
    Abstract: An engine with an exhaust treatment device (2) wherein a rotation moment of a side support stay (12) is generated by a load of a side portion (50) received by side support stay fastening tool (13) via an edge portion (21) of a cutout groove (20). As a result, a load of the side portion (50) of the exhaust treatment device (2) can be supported by the side support stay (12). A one-side temporary mount portions (22) is provided in a one-side support stay (10). The one-side support stay (10) can be temporarily mounted on the one-side temporary mount portions (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: KUBOTA Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsugu Okuda, Kozo Yoshida
  • Patent number: 8978224
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic socket for a residual limb of the lower extremity or upper extremity of an individual person. The residual limb has particular dimensions and anatomical contours; the prosthetic socket has dimensions and contours that fit the dimensions and contours of the residual limb. The prosthetic socket may also fit in a manner that is biomechanically particularly appropriate for the individual. The prosthetic socket is an assembly of components from groups of components that include (a) struts arranged longitudinally with respect to the residual limb, (b) proximal brim members arranged proximally to the struts and connected thereto; and (c) distal socket members disposed at the distal base of the prosthetic socket. The socket components within these groups may be modular in that they can vary with respect to dimensions and/or contours, and yet have common connecting features that permit assembly of the components together to form the prosthetic socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Lim Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Garrett Ray Hurley, Jesse Robert Williams
  • Patent number: 8973244
    Abstract: A pipe processing tool that is configured to deform the end of a pipe so that the circumferential shape of the end of the pipe generally matches the circumferential shape of an adjacent pipe end. Matching the circumferential shapes of the pipe ends is advantageous during a pipe attachment process. The pipe processing tool can include a deformation ring with a plurality of pipe deformation members. Each pipe deformation member faces radially inward and is actuatable in a radial direction toward and away from the center of the deformation ring in order to permit engagement with the pipe. Each pipe deformation member is individually and separately actuatable from the other pipe deformation members so that the circumferential shapes of the pipes can be altered by controlling suitable ones of the pipe deformation members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Lavalley Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Jason LaValley, Daniel Larson, Jesse Kilde
  • Publication number: 20150052724
    Abstract: An alignment master glass for aligning a plurality of openings of a vapor deposition mask for tensioning the vapor deposition mask, the alignment master glass includes a transparent substrate, and reflective film patterns on at least one surface of the transparent substrate, the reflective film patterns being only at locations corresponding to the plurality of openings of the vapor deposition mask.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Sang-Shin LEE
  • Publication number: 20150040365
    Abstract: A zero flush system includes a body provided with a plurality of transfer paths, a plurality of solenoid bars movably inserted into the transfer paths and a solenoid bar in the plurality of solenoid bars having one end closely adhered to a vehicle body panel or a door panel, a plurality of solenoids disposed in the transfer paths and transferring the solenoid bars at a time of applying power to the solenoids and a control device controlling the transferring of the solenoid bars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Sang Kyu Park
  • Publication number: 20150033532
    Abstract: A method for connecting a first component to a second component having a through hole includes the following steps: bringing the two components against one another and positioning them relative to one another, detecting the spatial position of the hole by a position detection electronic unit, positioning a connecting element at a location within the hole as a function of the spatial position of the hole or as a function of position data determined by the position detection electronic unit, connecting the connecting element to the first component, with the result that the connecting element projects into or through the hole, and clipping onto the connecting element a clip element which holds the two components together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Johann VAN NIEKERK, Eva VIETZE, Erik MARTIN
  • Publication number: 20150033531
    Abstract: A number of variations may include a product including an installation device having a plurality of pillars which are constructed and arranged to accept a passenger airbag housing; wherein at least one sensor or switch is attached to the installation device which may physically engage at least one tab during the installation process and which may provide electronic feedback of the installation results. A number of variations may include a method including placing a passenger airbag assembly having at least one lock feature onto an instrument panel chute having at least one tab feature; placing the installation device having at least one sensor or switch attached to it onto the passenger airbag assembly; pressing down on the installation device to engage the at least one lock feature with the at least one tab feature; and wherein the at least one sensor or switch provides electronic feedback of the installation results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Kaphengst, Robert J. Scheuerman, Craig A. Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20150021476
    Abstract: A magnetic lens for focusing a beam of charged particles traveling along an optical axis includes an axial bore disposed around said optical axis; magnetic field generating means; and magnetic yoke, to guide and concentrate said magnetic field toward said optical axis so as to form a focusing region, wherein Said yoke has a composite structure, comprising an outer primary portion and an inner secondary portion; Said secondary portion is mounted as a monolithic insert within said primary portion so as to be disposed around said focusing region; Said secondary portion comprises a waist region surrounding said bore and acting as a magnetic constriction, configured such that said magnetic field undergoes saturation in said waist region, thereby causing magnetic flux to exit the waist region and form a focusing field in said focusing region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: FEI Company
    Inventor: Ondrej Shanel
  • Patent number: 8914973
    Abstract: A method for installing a heated piston into a cylinder sleeve that is initially smaller than the piston includes: receiving the engine block at a heating station, heating the engine cylinder sleeve with heated air for a predetermined time at a predetermined temperature such that a temperature of the cylinder sleeve is equal to or greater than a temperature of the piston, and inserting the piston into the heated cylinder sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Brent C. Rankin, Michael Bergman, Phillip Ford
  • Patent number: 8904616
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a crimping process is disclosed, which determines whether an actual force stroke progression (Fa)/force-time progression is, a) above, or, b) below an ideal force stroke progression (Fi)/force-time progression in at least one point. The method shifts an upper border (Bu) and/or the lower border (Bl) of a tolerance band upwards in case a) and downwards in case b), utilizing four zones (Z1-Z4) of determined force progression. Additionally, there are is an absolute upper limit (Lu), at which an upward shifting of the upper border (Bu) is inhibited, and an absolute lower limit (Ll), at which a downward shifting of the lower border (Bl) is inhibited. Moreover, a crimping press and a computer program product embodying the method are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Schleuniger Holding AG
    Inventors: Mustafa Ayabakan, Witali Janzen
  • Patent number: 8904618
    Abstract: A method of tensioning park cables of a park brake system includes positioning a tension indicating device between an adjuster and an adjusting nut when the park brake system is disposed in a slack position. The tension indicating device includes an axial spacing length between the adjuster and the adjusting nut that is equal to a desired adjustment distance of the park cables when the park brake system is disposed in the slack position. The adjusting nut is then tightened until the tension indicating device indicates that the park cables include a tension equal to a target tension level of the park cables when the park brake system is disposed in an applied position. The tension indicating device is then removed from between the adjuster and the adjusting nut, thereby introducing slack into the park cables that is equal to the axial length of the tension indicating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Robbie D. Cannon, Karen F. Sieradski, Cheryl A. Garrison
  • Patent number: 8904615
    Abstract: A fastening device includes a rotational drive portion that rotationally drives a socket, an advance/retract drive portion that causes this socket to advance or retract along a rotational axis thereof, a magazine that retains a plurality of heads that retain bolts, and a switching portion that moves this magazine to selectively position one of a plurality of heads ahead and on the rotational axis of the socket. One of the heads is selected and positioned on the rotational axis of the socket by the switching portion, then the socket is advanced by the advance/retract drive portion and the head thus selected is retained by the socket, then the socket is advanced further by the advance/retract drive portion and the head to detach is detached from the magazine, and then the head is rotated by driving the rotational drive portion, thereby fastening a bolt retained in the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Ohno, Mitsutaka Igaue, Kenichiro Ono, Takeshi Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20140354856
    Abstract: The present application provides a micromechanical (MEMS) based zoom lens system, for use in miniature device applications, such as miniature electronic imaging devices. The MEMS-based zoom lens system comprises at least four optical elements, or two Alvarez or Lohmann lenses, that are configured for passage of optical signals therethrough along an optical signal path. Each optical element is MEMS-driven and displaceable in a direction substantially transverse to the optical signal path. In use, the transverse displacement of the optical elements vary an overall focal length of the MEMS zoom lens system such as to provide an optical zoom function. A method of manufacturing a MEMS zoom lens system is also provided in a further aspect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Guangya Zhou, Hongbin Yu, Fook Siong Chau
  • Patent number: 8898878
    Abstract: There is provided a method for attaching an exterior component. When attaching an exterior component to a bumper, an attachment member for a first attaching hole of the bumper fixed to the vehicular main body is detached, and then the attachment member is inserted into a first through-hole of the exterior component and the first attaching hole and fixed, thereby temporarily fixing the exterior component. A marking is put on a temporarily fixed portion where a second through-hole faces the bumper, and the exterior component is temporarily detached. A third attaching hole is formed by boring a hole in the marking of the bumper, and then a well nut is fitted into the exterior component, enabling the exterior component to be attached through the first and second through-holes. Accordingly, the marking and positioning of the exterior component can be easily performed without detaching the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Access Corp.
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Iwamoto
  • Patent number: 8893364
    Abstract: A method for setting a wheel hub assembly having a spacer therein, mounted on an axle, shaft or spindle or includes a cap a shaft is disclosed. The method is used on a wheel hub assembly having a spacer and bearings therein mounted on the axle, shaft or spindle. A retaining nut on the wheel hub assembly is tightened to the manufacture's specified torque for a particular wheel hub assembly for securing said assembly together. The wheel hub of the hub assembly is rotated when the nut is torqued to set the bearings. The retaining nut is loosened after rotating and the endplay within the wheel hub assembly is measured using an endplay measuring tool. The torque on the retaining nut is then adjusted to obtain a desired endplay measurement for the wheel hub assembly. The resultant torque on the nut at the desired endplay measurement is different from the manufacturer specified torque for the wheel hub assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: John E. Rode