Associating Parts By Use Of Aligning Means (e.g., Use Of A Drift Pin Or A "fixture") Patents (Class 29/464)
  • Patent number: 7653993
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a brush seal includes wrapping wire about spaced frames to form a pair of wire runs of multiple wire thicknesses. Two pairs of interior plates are inserted between the wire runs at an angle and in spaced relation to one another. Two pairs of plates are applied along the outside of the wire runs parallel to the pairs of interior plates, respectively. By removing the wire run outside the plates and welding along each of the opposite edges of the wire run securing an interior plate, a cut end of a wire run and an exterior plate to one another, and by cutting each wire run preferably in half, four tee shaped bristle packs are formed with the bristles extending at the appropriate angle. By cutting the tee shaped packs to length and rolling the cut pack, a brush seal is formed to the appropriate diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Bernard Arthur Couture, William Edward Adis
  • Patent number: 7650670
    Abstract: A hinge including leaves configured to facilitate adjusting the mounting position between hinged objects. In one embodiment, the hinge may generally include first and second leaves pivotally connected together. The leaves define mounting holes that receive fasteners to mount the leaves to the hinged objects. The mounting holes are preferably configured to provide adjustment of the leaves and hinged objects in at least two directions, which may be horizontal and vertical. In one embodiment, the hole shapes preferably may include horizontal slots, vertical slots, round holes, and combinations thereof. Other shapes may be used. When a fastener is partially inserted into a hinged object through a slotted-type mounting hole, for example, the hinged object is slideable relative to the leaf and the other hinged object. By employing a preferred sequence of installation steps, the installer may readily optimize the alignment between and mounting of the hinged objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Inventors: Austin R. Baer, Kerry B. Sprick
  • Patent number: 7650679
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for handling at least one part in a station for fixing two parts one on the other, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: positioning the parts in a station using a support (4); starting the fixing operation; replacing the support with a gripping robot (6) when the fixing operation has progressed sufficiently to lock the relative positioning of the two parts; mounting new parts in the support when the replacement has been made; and after the parts have been fixed, removing the thus fixed parts from the station using the gripping robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: ABB France
    Inventors: Daniel Bidaud, GĂ©rard Pinchon, Bernard Negre
  • Publication number: 20100011729
    Abstract: A draper cutting platform for use with an agricultural harvester includes a pair of side platform sections, with each side platform section including a side belt. A center platform section is disposed in an area between the side platform sections. The center platform section includes at least one alignment device and at least one latch. A center conveyor assembly is removably attached to the center platform section, and carries a center belt. The center conveyor assembly includes at least one mating alignment device and at least one mating latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Gordon L. Salley, Joseph Oberlander
  • Publication number: 20090293257
    Abstract: An exemplary multi-piece locating pin for a turbocharger assembly includes a screw piece with a nub and a securing feature to secure the screw piece in a housing of a turbocharger assembly and a pin piece with a receptacle configured to receive the nub and a locating surface to locate a bearing in a bore of the housing. An exemplary turbocharger assembly includes a housing with a bore, a bearing positioned in the bore where the bearing has a wall opening and a multi-piece locating pin secured to the housing and inserted at least partially in the wall opening to axially locate the bearing in the bore. Other exemplary pins, arrangements and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Joel Castan, Dominique Armand, Arnaud Gerard, Franck Blaise
  • Patent number: 7624491
    Abstract: The present application is directed to systems for controlling the direction of thermal expansion of a composite part during thermal processing. The systems may comprise at least one guiding mechanism capable of being attached to a surface of a tool for fabricating composites and at least one moveable composite insert capable of being attached to a composite part. The moveable composite insert has an opening for receiving the at least one guiding mechanism. The opening is capable of controlling movement of the at least one moveable composite insert in a desired direction during thermal expansion of the composite part, when the guiding mechanism is received by the opening. Methods for controlling the direction of thermal expansion of a composite part during thermal processing are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Polus
  • Publication number: 20090290154
    Abstract: In a spectroscopy module 1, a light detecting element 5 having a light passing hole 50 is used. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the relative positional relationship between the light passing hole 50 and a light detecting portion 5a of the light detecting element 5 from deviating. Moreover, the light detecting element 5 is electrically connected to a wiring 9 formed on a front plane 2a of a substrate 2 by face-down bonding, and a resin layer 79 is formed as an underfill resin between the substrate 2 and the light detecting element 5. Therefore, it is possible to improve the fixing strength between the substrate 2 and the light detecting element 5. Additionally, before the resin layer 79 is formed, a resin layer 78 is formed along a guide portion 77 that surrounds the passing hole 50. Thus, the resin layer 79 is prevented from penetrating into the light passing hole 50, which makes it possible to make a light be appropriately incident into the substrate 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.
    Inventors: Katsumi SHIBAYAMA, Tomofumi SUZUKI
  • Patent number: 7621701
    Abstract: Self-retaining shim apparatus and methods for providing an offset surface for supporting a template above a contoured workpiece such as the frame of an aircraft are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a shim portion of substantially uniform thickness, and one or more biasing members secured to the distal end thereof and extending toward the proximal end. A work piece is positioned between the biasing member and shim portion such that the biasing members are elastically deformed, resulting in a restoring force exerted on the workpiece serving to retain the shim in engagement with the workpiece. Contact pads secure to the free ends of the biasing members and have a contact portion offset from the free end. The contact portion is rounded to facilitate mounting and retention of the self-retaining shim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David W. Skiles, James L. Morrison
  • Publication number: 20090283036
    Abstract: The present invention generally includes a shadow frame with alignment inserts that may permit the shadow frame to be properly aligned on the susceptor. The shadow frame may have one or more alignment inserts. The alignment inserts may be coupled to a cavity formed in the bottom surface of the shadow frame. The alignment inserts may be shaped to receive an alignment button that may be present on the susceptor. Thus, as the susceptor raises to the processing position and retrieves the shadow frame, the shadow frame may align properly on the susceptor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Lan Duong, William N. Sterling, John M. White
  • Publication number: 20090279238
    Abstract: A keyboard includes a keyboard unit and casing. The keyboard unit is rectangular and includes a first and second surface, the first surface including at least one key disposed thereon, the second surface including a protrusion portion that protrudes therefrom. The protrusion portion includes an engagement hole open toward a first direction that corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the rectangle. The casing includes a third surface on which the keyboard unit is mounted, the third surface including an insertion or through hole into which the protrusion portion is insertable, the casing including an engagement protrusion provided at a position opposed to the engagement hole of the protrusion portion that is inserted into the through hole, the engagement protrusion being engaged with the engagement hole of the inserted protrusion portion when the keyboard unit is moved in the first direction. A method of assembling the keyboard is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Norio Kobayashi, Hideki Hanamura, Masanori Akiyama
  • Publication number: 20090279990
    Abstract: Devices and methods for mounting and aligning transport rails to a processing chamber of a substrate processing system are described. An alignment feature is built-in to the transport rail and a corresponding alignment feature is added to the valves separating processing chambers. The alignment feature may be a pin-groove arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: INTEVAC, INC.
    Inventor: Stuart Scollay
  • Patent number: 7607220
    Abstract: A method for establishing electrical communication between a control module and a motor/generator in a hybrid electromechanical transmission includes providing a preassembled terminal subassembly including a first plurality of wire terminals sufficiently interconnected for selective, substantially unitary movement with respect to a transmission housing, aligning the preassembled terminal subassembly with a second plurality of wire terminals affixed with respect to at least one electric motor/generator, and establishing electrical communication between each of said first plurality of wire terminals and a respective one of said second plurality of terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: William S. Reed, Edward L. Kaiser, Joel E. Mowatt
  • Patent number: 7607212
    Abstract: A machine and a method for assembling a vehicle body is disclosed as including a locating pin (26) formed with a seating flange portion (35) having a work seating surface (35a) and a clamp arm (39) contained in the locating pin to be operable in a clamping or unclamping movement responsive to an extrusion and retraction of a clamp cylinder (34). A detection pin (47) is mounted for an extruding and extracting movement from the work seating surface (35a), with the detection pin (47), a shaft (44) ad a proximity switch (48) forming a work seating detection mechanism (49). A mutual engagement between the locating pin (26) and a locating bore (R) allows a panel W3 to be positioned, simultaneously detecting the presence of seating of the panel W3 responsive to a movement of the detection pin (47).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Setsuo Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20090261093
    Abstract: A correlated magnetic container and method are described herein that use correlated magnets to enable a container having at least two sections to be assembled, disassembled or releasably secured to an external object. Some examples of the two sections of the container that can be assembled and disassembled utilizing the correlated magnets include a wall panel, top panel, side panel, bottom panel, door panel, a handle, a tool, a belt, a frame member or locking member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: Cedar Ridge Research, LLC
    Inventors: Larry W. Fullerton, Mark D. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20090255107
    Abstract: An apparatus is presented for providing vertical or horizontal alignment to a pipe or conduit extending through a floor, wall or ceiling surface, comprising a box-like housing having a first set of one or more openings extending therethrough, one or more pipe stubs for extending through the first set of one or more openings of the housing for receiving partially therein the pipe or conduit, and elastomeric members for securing the pipe stubs within the openings of the housing and to provide a fluid-tight seal therebetween. The alignment device is adapted to be positioned within the floor, wall or ceiling surface, respectively, through which the pipe or conduit is to extend. The number, location and size of the stub openings can be varied to accommodate piping systems of varying sizes and configurations, and may be determined on a case-by-case basis prior to construction, relying on customized pipe fittings as well as standardized models for masonry construction and wood-frame construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Griffith
  • Publication number: 20090253351
    Abstract: A system method and apparatus to monitor a frictional coefficient of a substrate undergoing polishing is described. A polishing pad assembly includes a polishing layer including a polishing surface, and a substrate contacting member flexibly coupled to the polishing layer having a top surface to contact an exposed surface of a substrate. At least a portion of the top surface is substantially coplanar with the polishing surface. A sensor is provided to measure a lateral displacement of the substrate contacting member. Some embodiments may provide accurate endpoint detection during chemical mechanical polishing to indicate the exposure of an underlying layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Gabriel Lorimer Miller, Manoocher Birang, Nils Johansson, Boguslaw A. Swedek, Dominic J. Benvegnu
  • Publication number: 20090239678
    Abstract: a means and method of assembling a golf club head and hozel together using mechanical means is presented. The method includes precision drilling of placement holes and press fitting a locater device into said hole to receive a characteristically shaped golf club hozel end. The mechanical means is sufficient to hold the club head and hozel together, but can be supplemented with gluing or brazing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Richard De La Cruz, Richard D. De La Cruz
  • Patent number: 7587802
    Abstract: A robotic system and process for automatically orienting/positioning a vehicle panel prior to its installation to a vehicle. The panel is first moved by the robot from a temporary storage position to an alignment fixture that acts to initially define the orientation/position of the panel in two directions. The robot subsequently contacts the panel such that the panel is pushed against a position stop that defines the position of the panel in a third direction. With the panel properly oriented/positioned, the robot removes the panel from the alignment fixture and transfers it to the vehicle for installation. Panels of dissimilar size and/or shape may be installed using the same system and process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroki Tsuchiya, Scott Cavinee, Ross Cordell, Greg Null
  • Patent number: 7578038
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for remotely installing vortex-induced vibration (VIV) reduction and drag reduction devices on elongated structures in flowing fluid environments. The apparatus is a tool for transporting and installing the devices. The devices installed can include clamshell-shaped strakes, shrouds, fairings, sleeves and flotation modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: David Wayne McMillan, Richard Bruce McDaniel
  • Publication number: 20090203478
    Abstract: An assembling device, an assembling method and a manufacturing method of a driving belt, which can facilitate fitting of rings into a recess of an element to improve productivity of the driving belt. The driving belt V, in which two rows of rings 8a and 8b are accommodated parallel to each other in a recess 7 of a plurality of elements 1 interlinked annularly in a manner to situate the recess 7 to open to an outer circumferential side, and in which the rings 8a and 8b are held in an inner circumferential side of the protruding portions 9 formed on an opening end of inner walls 6 of the recess 7 to prevent detachment of the rings 8a and 8b from the recess 7, comprises: a ring holding member 8c for restricting a relative movement between the rings 8a and 8b aligned parallel to each other entirely in its length direction without being overlapped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Daisuke Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7571527
    Abstract: A mandrel is disclosed for fabricating a monolithic composite nacelle panel for use on an airplane. Also disclosed is the method of constructing the mandrel, the method of assembling the mandrel, and the method of disassembling the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: John L. Burnett, David W. Hackler, Timothy C. Wilson, John M. Welch, Thomas D. Popp, Christopher S. Sawyer, Leo B. Hoadley, Leroy J. Fulbright, Mitchel B. Granger, Barry B. Craig, Phillip E. Kenney
  • Patent number: 7568279
    Abstract: A system and a method of installing an instrument panel in a motor vehicle. The system includes a decking arm assembly having a support structure for supporting the instrument panel, an actuator, a cradle disposed proximate the actuator, and a sensor assembly. The cradle engages a steering shaft assembly of the instrument panel when the actuator is in the advanced position and the sensor assembly does not indicate that the instrument panel is in a desired installation position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Keith Lohman, Ajay Gupta
  • Publication number: 20090188099
    Abstract: A method for preparing a bipolar plate assembly for a fuel cell stack is provided. The method first includes the steps of providing a first unipolar plate having a first active area with a plurality of channels formed on a first inner surface thereof, and a second unipolar plate having a second active area with a plurality of lands formed on a second inner surface thereof. The first unipolar plate and the second unipolar plate are aligned to dispose the first active area adjacent the second active area. A first pressure is then applied to the first and second active areas to pre-nest the first active area and the second active area. The perimeters of the first and second unipolar plates are then joined. A clamping fixture and associated method for assembling the bipolar plate assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Mark W. Keyser, Jeffrey A. Rock, Keith E. Newman, Lewis Dipietro, Scott Ofslager, Steven J. Spencer
  • Publication number: 20090184245
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an absorber with a hole for a metallic magnetic cryogenic detector and an aligning method. More specifically, the present invention is to provide an absorber with a small hole as an aligning mark for a temperature sensor used in a metallic magnetic cryogenic detector. A temperature sensor is bonded on the small hole of the absorber punched by a laser. Using the hole as an aligning mark the temperature sensor can be accurately positioned on the pick-up coil of the measuring means. Thus, the aligning method provides a magnetic measurement with an ideal coupling between the sensor and the pick-up loop. It eventually presents a precise measurement of the energy spectrum absorbed in a metallic magnetic cryogenic detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science
    Inventors: Yong Hamb Kim, Kyoung Beom Lee, Min Kyu Lee, Sang Jun Lee
  • Publication number: 20090183399
    Abstract: A mobile trencher machine having an upper assembly, a ground drive assembly, and an adapter frame positioned between and coupled to each of the upper assembly and the ground drive assembly. The ground drive assembly being positionable in one of a number of mounting positions relative to the upper assembly, including a forward position, a rearward position, and a central position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Matt Mills, Ted Sanders, Brad Pinkerton, Arlyn Klyn
  • Publication number: 20090181791
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a golf club attachment mechanism comprises a hosel adapter with a first slot coupler across a top portion of the hosel adapter, and a shaft adapter with a second slot coupler across a bottom portion of the shaft adapter. The second slot coupler of the shaft adapter is complementary to the first slot coupler of the hosel adapter. The first slot coupler and the second slot coupler couple together to restrict a rotational movement of the hosel adapter relative to the shaft adapter. Other embodiments are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Richard R. Sanchez, Mitchell E. Bac, Bradley D. Schweigert, Eric V. Cole
  • Patent number: 7559147
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable framing fixture for fabricating wall frames. Pneumatically controlled clamping mechanisms retain and locate various components of a frame wall. Spring loaded locator pins allow for variations in openings in the frame wall and allow for various frame wall designs. An offloading system allows for removal of completed frame walls from the portable framing fixture. The portable framing fixture is mounted onto a wheeled axle assembly to allow for easy transportation of the portable framing fixture to different job sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Timothy Fleeman
  • Patent number: 7556469
    Abstract: A swivel frame structure for a hydraulic excavator, said swing frame structure being to be arranged in a swing upperstructure 21, has a center frame 1 composed of side plates 6,7 and a reinforcement plate 8 joined to each other. The swing frame structure is provided with mating portions for bringing the side plates 6,7 and the reinforcement plate 8 into engagement with each other. These mating portions comprise plug-in structure portions, which in turn comprise holes 6a,7a formed through the respective side plates 6,7 and lugs 8a,8b arranged on opposite side edge portions of the reinforcement plate 8 and to be inserted into the holes 6a,7a of the corresponding side plates 6,7. The center frame can be fabricated without needing any jigs for fixedly holding the side plates and a bottom plate together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nozomu Tanaka, Yasuo Koide, Hiroyuki Isobe
  • Publication number: 20090165279
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for aligning a CVD showerhead, comprising engaging a showerhead stem clamp with a showerhead stem outside of a process chamber of the CVD system. An alignment fixture is provided, and a plurality of spacer discs are positioned between the showerhead suspended from a top plate of the CVD system and heated platen. Nuts supporting the showerhead to the top plate are loosened, therein permitting the showerhead to move vertically within the process chamber. The process chamber is closed and the top plate is lowered, wherein the showerhead contacts the plurality of spacer discs. The alignment fixture is engaged with the showerhead stem clamp, therein fixing a vertical position of the showerhead with respect to the top plate, and the top plate is raised. The position of the of the showerhead is then fixed with respect to the top plate via a plurality of standoffs, an adjustment bracket, a threaded rod, and a plurality of nuts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Joe M. Bockemehl, JR., Antonio Ibarra-Rivera, Jason James New
  • Publication number: 20090169393
    Abstract: A method of assembling a tower for use with a wind turbine is provided. The method includes providing a plurality of tower segments. Each tower segment includes a first interface and a second interface. The method also includes bonding the first interface of a first tower segment to the second interface of a second tower segment using an adhesive composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Bharat Sampathkumaran Bagepalli, Timothy Michael Grzybowski, Dustin Jon Wambeke, John P. Davis
  • Publication number: 20090159330
    Abstract: A portable electrochemical power supply for handheld electronic devices, such as cellular telephones, is disclosed. The power supply includes a housing with an electrical connector, a circuit board, and a removable electrochemical cell disposed therein. The circuit board carries power supply circuitry which receives electrical energy from the electrochemical cell and provides a power supply output for powering an external device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: EVEREADY BATTERY COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Nir Weinstein, Benny Gaber
  • Publication number: 20090151154
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for transferring a nanostructure from a die to a flat side of a large-area substrate with a substrate holder that receives the substrate on a substrate receiving surface, and an actuator device that can be oriented parallel to the substrate receiving surface and opposite to this movable structural surface of the die and that acts orthogonally to the substrate receiving surface. To be able to use reasonably priced dies and in this case to achieve the highest possible throughput, a good edge yield, and a homogeneous structure with the substrate as much as possible without scrapping, a system is proposed with which the resultant force that acts through the die on the substrate surface can be shifted along the die surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Friedrich Paul Lindner, Thomas Glinsner, Markus Wimplinger
  • Publication number: 20090139072
    Abstract: Installation of an engine to a support structure includes temporarily attaching first and second alignment structures to the support structure and the engine. One of the alignment structures has a target pattern on its surface. The installation further includes using a machine vision system from the other of the mounting structures to indicate the relative position of the target pattern with respect to a reference. The relative position of the target pattern with respect to the reference provides information about relative position of an engine mounting element (e.g., bolt hole) with respect to a corresponding mounting element (e.g., bolt hole) in the support structure. The relative position of the target pattern with respect to the reference can be used to maneuver the engine in order to align the mounting elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Gary M. Buckus, Michael J. Tanzini
  • Publication number: 20090137162
    Abstract: A terminal for a compression connector, a terminal strip of interconnected terminals for compression connectors and a method for inserting a terminal into a compression connector housing. The terminal including a solder portion including an elongate main body extending along a first direction and a solder tail formed at one end of the main body and extending substantially perpendicular to said first direction; and a supporting member attached to the main body of the solder portion and extending substantially in said first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Lip Teck Soh
  • Patent number: 7536767
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a reinforced plastic foam cup including providing a plastic foam cup, positioning a reinforcing member along a first line, moving the cup and the reinforcing member toward an attachment position, at the attachment position, attaching the reinforcing member to the side wall of the cup along the central vertical axis of the reinforcing member, wherein the inner surface of the body of the reinforcing member engages the side wall of the cup at an angle which corresponds with an angle of the side wall of the cup, rotating the cup and the attached reinforcing member in a first direction to attach a trailing portion of the reinforcing member to the side wall of the cup, and rotating the cup and the attached reinforcing member in a second opposite direction to attach a leading portion of the reinforcing member to the side wall of the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Prairie Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Hollis, Dimitri Stamatiou
  • Publication number: 20090126253
    Abstract: Provided is a waterfowl decoy that includes a suction bottom main body in combination with a removable keel. The main body includes extensions on the bottom that are within the cavity, and the keel includes corresponding slots to slideably engage the extensions. The keel also includes a hollow ballast section with an opening for insertion of desired ballast material. The keel is brought into contact with the bottom of the main body and the extensions are slid into the slots. This invention allows for quick, selectable attachment or removal of the keel in the field. The keel also includes a structure for the attachment and wrapping of an anchor cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Tate Wood, Bobby L. Windham, JR.
  • Patent number: 7509740
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for manufacturing wings includes a fixture that holds wing panels for drilling and edge trimming by accurate numerically controlled machine tools using original numerical part definition records, utilizing spatial relationships between key features of detail parts or subassemblies as represented by coordination features machined into the parts and subassemblies, thereby making the parts and subassemblies intrinsically determinant of the dimensions and contour of the wing. Spars are attached to the wing panel using the coordination holes to locate the spars accurately on the panel in accordance with the original engineering design, and in-spar ribs are attached to rib posts on the spar using accurately drilled coordination holes in the ends of the rib and in the rib post. The wing contour is determined by the configuration of the spars and ribs rather than by any conventional hard tooling which determines the wing contour in conventional processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Clayton L. Munk, Paul E. Nelson, David E. Strand
  • Publication number: 20090080163
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for aligning a connector between a printed wiring board and a mezzanine board includes mounting the printed wiring board to a frame, locating a cover with respect to the frame by way of a first pin and a second pin, fastening the cover to the frame, locating the mezzanine board with respect to the cover by way of a third pin and a fourth pin, and fastening the mezzanine board to the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Timothy F. Lyons
  • Publication number: 20090051087
    Abstract: A damper for a torque converter, including: a first plate with at least one first opening; a second plate with at least one second opening; and at least one first spring disposed in the at least one first and second openings and including: a radially inward portion in contact with the at least one first opening; and first and second radially outward ends in contact with first and second sides of the at least one second opening and free of contact with the first plate. In one embodiment, the at least one first opening includes third and fourth sides and the radially inward portion includes first and second radially inward ends in contact the third and fourth sides. In another embodiment, the third and fourth sides are free of contact with the second plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Jonathan Jameson, Adam Uhler, Andre Soto
  • Patent number: 7493682
    Abstract: A system for splicing a conveyor belt with belt fasteners is disclosed. A base assembly aligns the belt, belt fasteners and rivet holes thereof with swage structures for securing the rivets. A guide assembly has a rigid guide block with cylindrical pilot holes, and a guide membrane of resilient material. Guide pins are receivable by guide bores for aligning the base and guide assemblies with the pilot holes, rivet holes, and swage structures in registry. The guide membrane including openings aligned with the pilot holes. The openings have a pair of slits defining flaps deflectable to permit the rivet to pass therethrough, and a central hole or cut-out. The flaps and the cut-out assist in centering the rivet with the belt fastener rivet holes. The system uses a single-rivet driver, a multi-rivet driver, a pneumatic driver, or an electric hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas W. Richardson, Mary Jane Richardson
  • Patent number: 7490459
    Abstract: A mowing device including a disc, the disc providing a mount for at least one knife, said knife being pivotably mounted to said disc by a pivot pin, said pivot pin defining a mounting axis, such that the knife can rotate about said pivot pin between a first extended position and any retracted position, said disc being constructed of a basic material thickness and comprising a mounting surface; said mowing device including a knife adapter comprising a cylindrical aperture and a projection; said pivot pin comprising a first cylindrical section of a first diameter to fit into said cylindrical aperture in said knife adapter, and a second cylindrical section, of a second diameter, with a groove defined by a groove width and a pin section thickness at the groove of a dimension less than said second diameter; said mowing device including a retainer constructed of a material thickness equal to or less than the width of said groove, with a key-hole shaped aperture defined by a first circular section with a first insid
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Kent Thompson, Rustin V. Bentzinger, Martin Koorn
  • Publication number: 20090040515
    Abstract: Formats for the optical testing of fluids are manufacturing using modular format components. The format components are constructed so that matching format components can be mated together to form a single format for optical testing. Formats may be manufactured using pin-and-hole construction so that pins on optical format components mate with holes on opposing format components. Optical read surfaces provided on optical format components oppose each other in a completed optical format to form a read area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventor: Allen J. Brenneman
  • Publication number: 20090019680
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an adjustable or variable joining device or connector that may connect a duct (such as pipe or tubing) having a range of shapes, sizes and thread styles to an object (such as equipment, a container, or another length of pipe or tubing). The device generally comprises a sealing member that elastically expands to fit adjacent to the exterior surface of the duct. The sealing member may also be positioned within and connected to a casing member. To prevent the sealing member from collapsing under thrust loads tending to pull the duct from the device, the sealing member is held in place relative to the duct and the casing member by a rigid or semi-rigid support assembly, a cover plate, compressible inserts, foam or a combination of the same. The invention also includes certain kits and methods of using and constructing the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth P. Krohn
  • Patent number: 7472465
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Gottlieb Binder GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Klaus Nagele
  • Patent number: 7469473
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Utica Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Savoy
  • Patent number: 7469452
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for use in automated welding repairs, particularly those repairs intended for impellers and similar structures. In one embodiment, the invention provides an impeller weld restraining fixture. The fixture includes a base plate and top ring. An impeller may be sandwiched between the base plate and the ring mount. Tangs located on the top ring may be fitted to rest in the valley faces between airfoils on an impeller. Bolting the top ring to the base plate, with the impeller firmly secured therebetween, restrains the impeller so as to minimize warpage during welding repairs and heat treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Steven M. Garrett
  • Publication number: 20080307629
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a locating pin and a retention clip. The locating pin and the retention clip allow alignment of the front end module with the body structure and the retention clip secures the two assemblies in place which allows alignment of fastener holes. This conserves time in the assembly line and allows more accurate and rapid assembly of the front end module on the body structure reducing the time necessary for assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Ameil A. Kapadia, Gari M. Schalte, Thomas Pilette
  • Publication number: 20080308332
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a Front End Module (FEM) assembly and associated assembly method with a rail system to enable efficient assembly, tighter clearances between the front end module assembly and the vehicle, and time and cost savings. The present disclosure provides a FEM assembly including grilles and headlamps and a rail system enabling the FEM to be assembled on a vehicle. Advantageously, the present disclosure allows the FEM to pass between fenders on the vehicle with a very tight clearance condition. The rail system included in the present disclosure allows the FEM to be assembled efficiently while protecting grilles and headlamps from being damaged by fenders and protecting the fenders from damage from the FEM.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Bernardo Gonzalez-Salvador
  • Publication number: 20080302896
    Abstract: A tube mill is provided with liners fastened to a shell. The tube mill is provided with an adaptor plate. The adaptor plate is provided with a first pattern of drilling holes in a DIN pattern and a second pattern of drilling holes in a non-DIN pattern. The adaptor plate is fastened to the shell via one or more holes of the second pattern and a number of liners is fastened to the adaptor plate via one or more holes of the first pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: AIA Engineering Ltd.
    Inventor: S. V. Bhide
  • Patent number: 7458152
    Abstract: In a scroll fluid machine, an orbiting scroll is eccentrically revolved with respect to a fixed scroll by a driving shaft to compress a gas toward a center. To manufacture the orbiting scroll, a reference bore is formed at the center of orbiting scroll material, and a reference bore is formed at the center of bearing plate material. A dowel pin is inserted in the two reference bores. The orbiting scroll material is combined with the bearing plate material with a bolt and an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Anest Iwata Corporation
    Inventor: Toru Sato