Hollow Body Is Axially Joined Cup Or Tube Patents (Class 29/516)
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Patent number: 5992000Abstract: An apparatus for crimping a stent to a catheter as well as a method for crimping a stent to a catheter are disclosed in several embodiments. The apparatus in its various embodiments involves the application of a uniform radially inward force to a compressible tube in which the stent and catheter are situated.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.Inventors: John W. Humphrey, Terry V. Brown, Charles L. Euteneuer, Nam H. Hoang, Leo M. Klisch, Christopher R. Larson, Jonathan C. Sell, Vladimir B. Tsukernik, Lawrence W. Ulanowski
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Patent number: 5984376Abstract: A compact, lightweight closed coupling male spring lock fitting for direct connection to an air-conditioning hose having an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and an annular cage, the inner sleeve having stepped portion that receives an inner surface of the annular cage. The annular cage surrounds the outer diameter of the inner sleeve and is spaced a distance from one end of the inner sleeve. The outer sleeve abuts an outer surface of the annular cage and prevents axial movement of the annular cage. The outer sleeve is retained in a retaining groove on the outer diameter of the inner sleeve, adjacent the stepped portion. The closed coupling of the outer sleeve and annular cage significantly reduces the overall length and weight of the fitting in comparison to prior art fittings and the inner sleeve may be machined opposed to conventional tube roll-forming processes.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Automotive Fluid Systems, Inc.Inventor: Arthur F. Lampe
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Patent number: 5983478Abstract: A process and apparatus for electromagnetically forming the end of an electrically conductive 2024 aluminum tube onto an end fitting includes energizing a main coil around a field concentrator movable into an opening in the main coil. The field concentrator has a wide circumferential flange that narrows down to an inner radial web having an axial channel through the center. The field concentrator is split horizontally into two halves, so the top half can be removed for insertion of the tube end and the end fitting. The end fitting has a tubular body that fits snugly into the end of the tube. A pair of carriages mounted on rails clamp the tube, and a gripper holds the end fitting in the proper position in the tube end. The carriages carry the field concentrator, and the tube with its end fitting positioned in the center of the field concentrator web, into the coil where a magnetic field generated by the coil and concentrated by the field concentrator forms the end of the tube onto the end fitting.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Larry E. Dolan, John L. Eickelberg, Blake E. Reed, Ron N. Scarborough
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Patent number: 5974652Abstract: A stent crimping tool for firmly and uniformly crimping a stent onto a balloon catheter is constructed from a crimping section holding the stent and the balloon catheter therein, wherein the crimping is actuated by a shaft having an input end and an output end, engaging the crimping section at the output end. The shaft has a detent formed into the input end. A gripping member has an internal cavity to receive the input end, and includes a hole proximate to the shaft, wherein a ball bearing and a compression spring are located within the hole to bias the ball bearing toward the shaft and to engage the detent. When a torque is applied to the gripping member, it is transmitted through the ball bearing to the shaft; if the torque exceeds a predetermined magnitude, it overcomes the force of the spring on the ball bearing causing the bearing to slide out of the detent thereby disconnecting the applied torque from the shaft. The crimping section can be a rubber tube having a lumen holding the stent and catheter.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: Richard M. Kimes, Michael S. Mirizzi
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Patent number: 5964021Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing a double chamber container with tapering/conical inner chamber for a pressure-valve can. The container is usable for dispensing flowable products, in particular, products containing solvents or products for the cosmetics industry, and comprises a single or multiple part metallic outer container and a compressible metallic inner container. The invention also relates to a double chamber container produced according to this method and its use in pressure-valve cans.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1996Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: IPC International Packaging Ltd.Inventor: Hans F. Stoffel
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Patent number: 5961157Abstract: A device and a method for making a device for forming a leak-proof connection between a rigid tube end and the tip of a flexible pipe by crimping a metal sleeve portion onto the tip. The rigid tube end includes an end portion comprising a shoulder with a larger diameter than the tube. The device comprises a rigid insert having a cylindrical bore between both ends thereof and including on one side a tubular portion force-fitted into the tip of the pipe opposite the crimped part of the metal sleeve portion, and on the other side a portion provided with an outer flange having a matching shape and engaging the internal portion of the shoulder.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1998Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Manuli Auto FranceInventors: Daniel Baron, Michel Brachet
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Patent number: 5960529Abstract: An apparatus for deforming a jacket tube of a honeycomb body includes a plurality of radially displaceable segments each having a sliding surface with a wedge-shaped cross section. At least one annular, axially displaceable closing element surrounds the segments and has at least one oblique surface sliding on the sliding surface. An actuating device connected to the closing element has an annular shape defining an opening through which the honeycomb body with the jacket tube can enter from one side and exit from the other side. A method for deforming a jacket tube on a honeycomb body includes passing the honeycomb body with the jacket tube through at least one tunnel-like calibrating station in which the jacket tube is deformed. A transport direction of the honeycomb body and the jacket tube during a production process is maintained during the deformation.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Emitec Gessellschaft fuer Emissionstechnologie mbHInventors: Gottfried W. Haesemann, Lutz Guthke, Ludwig Wieres
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Patent number: 5943757Abstract: An insertion die for the installation of an internally-threaded flange into a drum head by means of a single stroke cycle of a cooperating press includes components arranged for piercing a hole in the drum head and crimping a raised embossment which is formed in the drum head over and around the flange for securely anchoring the flange into the drum head embossment. The insertion die is configured with two workstations, one for a two inch inside diameter flange and the other for a 3/4 inch inside diameter vent closure. The insertion die includes a moveable die center at each workstation which is initially positioned in a blocking configuration to prevent crimping jaws from closing. The die center is moveable to a lower position below the crimping jaws which allows the jaws to act on the drum head embossment for crimping the embossment onto the flange.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Rieke CorporationInventor: Robert E. Magley
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Patent number: 5943758Abstract: A hollow golf club shaft is prepared by flag rolling a base layer of composite material pieces over a mandrel having a larger-diameter region and a reduced-diameter region. The base layer is optionally precompacted. A collar is slid along he length of the mandrel having the reduced-diameter region and base layer to lie adjacent to the larger-diameter region, and at least one overlayer composite material piece is flag rolled overlying the base-layer composite material pieces onto that portion of the mandrel having the reduced diameter.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Grafalloy CorporationInventor: Neal Haas
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Patent number: 5937496Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling tubular elements of a frame without welding or adhesive bonding. Connection elements are used with which mechanical connections may be accomplished by deforming the tubular element to conform to the shape of its respective connection element. Preferably, the connection element is shaped to be inserted within a hollow end of a tubular element and includes radially inwardly directed recesses. The tubular element is deformed with respect to the recesses, preferably by electromagnetic pulse forming, to thereby lock the tubular element and connection element against relative movement. Such connection elements and method may be used in frames of mobile units such as bicycles, wheelchairs, and walkers. The forming process used in connecting the tubular frame elements may also be used to create ride compliance features in the frame by deforming at least one of the tubular elements to modify its spring constant.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1996Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: NBG Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Benoit, Glenn L. Spacht
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Patent number: 5937500Abstract: A method for making a steering column locking assembly includes swaging a steering column tube and a steering column lock collar in such a manner that relative rotation between the two parts is resisted below a predetermined torque while relative rotation occurs at values of value above the predetermined value. A layer of plastics material may be provided between the two parts. Once the predetermined torque is overcome, then rotation between the two parts occurs, but ceases once the torque level drops below the predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: The Torrington CompanyInventor: John Thomas Bobbitt, III
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Patent number: 5937516Abstract: A method of spin forming, comprising the steps of: providing a tool having a first plurality of forming rollers spaced at a second plurality of distances from a spin axis; spinning around the spin axis at least one member of a set comprising (i) a work piece and (ii) the tool; and engaging the tool and a first end of the work piece. The method allows increased diameter reductions of a free end of a work piece in a single forming operation without collapse of the end of the work piece.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1996Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Egas Jose De Sousa, Gregory Lynn Barber, Donald Richard Tucker
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Patent number: 5920975Abstract: A stent crimping tool for firmly and uniformly crimping a stent onto a catheter. The stent crimping tool is constructed from a base having two vertically extending spaced apart supports and a coiled tension spring affixed at one end to a shaft and at the opposite end to one of the vertical supports. When a stent is loaded onto the balloon portion of a catheter, and the stent-catheter assembly is inserted into an axial space within the coiled spring, the user can rotate the shaft to twist the coiled spring thereby constricting it, and in turn the constriction of the coiled spring uniformly crimps the stent onto the balloon catheter.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventor: Stephen A. Morales
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Patent number: 5918505Abstract: A linear actuator includes a driven spindle (10) of metal having a nut (12) of polymeric material which further is connected to the expelling rod (14) of the actuator. The nut and expelling rod are joined to each other by intermeshing embossing mate for contemporary transfer of axial forces and torques. With a polymeric nut a number of advantages are obtained such as low friction, lifetime lubrication, low noise level, low production and maintenance costs. Furthermore, a possibility is provided for in a simple manner to provide the actuator with a safety nut connected to the main nut (12) with breakable entrainment means.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1997Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Assignee: Linak A/SInventor: Bent Jensen
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Patent number: 5911452Abstract: A system for loading a stent onto a catheter is disclosed. The system includes a housing having an internal chamber with a flexible tube extending therethrough. A stent is positioned at about a mid portion of the flexible tube, and the balloon portion of the catheter is inserted into the flexible tube and positioned within the stent. Pressurized fluid is injected into the internal chamber thereby circumferentially compressing the flexible tube and in turn compressing the stent and crimping it onto the balloon portion of the catheter. A balloon folding attachment can be mounted onto an end of the housing. The inner lumen of the attachment has progressively varying cross-sectional shapes that fold the flattened balloon portion of the catheter as it is advanced into the attachment. The folded balloon portion is continually advanced into the attachment into the flexible tube until it is aligned within the stent.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventor: John Y. Yan
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Patent number: 5903967Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide a double cylinder body and a manufacturing method thereof which can connect the inside cylinder and the outside cylinder strongly. The stopper 45 is protrudely provided on the outer circumference of one end portion of the inside cylinder 43 which will be a base of the yoke 13 made from iron, the inside cylinder 43 is attached on the outer circumference of the punch 33 on which the swelling portion 34 is fitted. The punch 33 to which the inside cylinder 43 is fitted is press inserted in the void 42 of the outside cylinder 41 from the swelling portion 34 side. The outside cylinder 41 in which the punch 33 and the inside cylinder 43 are press inserted is press inserted in the die 31. The punch 33 is only ejected from the inside cylinder 43 during ironing the inside face of the inside cylinder 43.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1997Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: Mitsuba CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Taniguchi
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Patent number: 5890287Abstract: There are provided a connection structure and process for connecting a eye-joint and a slender metal pipe, which is enabled by making the welding operation completely unnecessary to eliminate the working troubles and a fear of cracking or breakage, as might otherwise be caused by deteriorations in the mechanical properties in the vicinity of the connection end portion, which can use the eye-joint body and the metal pipe, as plated with a corrosion-resistance substance or coated with a resin in advance, to improve the productivity drastically thereby to ensure the connection with neither axial nor circumferential movement, and which can connect a metal pipe, if necessary, as having a diameter larger than the width of the eye-joint body.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1996Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha LimitedInventor: Kazumi Fukaya
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Patent number: 5875540Abstract: An improved stator core and process for manufacturing the core are accomplished by a modular stator core design. The stator core is comprised of a series of equally sized and shaped stator core modules that are manufactured via a vacuum pressure impregnation process. The prefabricated modules can then be assembled into a stator core in an efficient way, saving several days of stator core assembly time. Moreover, a variety of stator core lengths can be accommodated by only inserting the required number of modules into the stator frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: March 2, 1999Assignee: Siemens Westinghouse Power CorporationInventors: John Barry Sargeant, Gurdev Singh, Calvin L. Paris
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Patent number: 5832588Abstract: A tube and fitting assembly for pressurized fluids is provided which may provide a fluid-tight seal up to the bursting pressure of the tube at relatively high temperatures. The tube and fitting assembly includes a malleable tube and a fitting having a first portion forming an external surface, a second portion radially larger than the first portion to form an abutment facing the first portion, and a recess formed within the abutment and facing the first portion. A gasket formed of a high temperature material is provided in the recess. An end of the tube is radially inwardly compressed on the external surface of the fitting and extends into the recess to the gasket. The tube is assembled to the fitting by placing the tube over the first portion of the fitting and the external surface and gripping the tube with jaws having an inward nose projection of a small axial extent at about the forward end of the fitting.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1997Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Universal EnterprisesInventors: Ralph G. Ridenour, Dennis W. Kerr
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Patent number: 5824173Abstract: A method of making an intravascular balloon catheter that has an elongated shaft defining an inflation lumen and a guidewire lumen, as well as a balloon disposed near the distal end of the shaft. The method may include forming an inner shaft by coextruding a flexible plastic tube by bringing a molten outer plastic layer into contact with a molten inner plastic layer, thereby bonding the plastic layers together during the coextrusion process. The inner plastic layer may be more lubricious than the outer plastic layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: Cordis CorporationInventors: Carlos A. Fontirroche, Stephen J. Querns
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Patent number: 5811684Abstract: A method of securing a pressure sensor diaphragm to a pressure sensor base, including the steps of positioning the pressure sensor diaphragm over the pressure sensor base, placing a pressure sensor cap over the pressure sensor diaphragm, applying a tensile force to at least a portion of the cap, and deforming a portion of the cap around a portion of the base. The applying step can occur before the deforming step by engaging a portion of the cap and advancing the base toward the cap to create tension in a portion of the cap. This creates a tensile preload in the cap. The applying step can instead be performed during the deforming step by engaging a first portion of the cap and advancing a second portion of the cap toward the first portion of the cap and around a portion of the base. This can create tension in a portion of the cap when the deformation operation is being performed.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: SSI Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Erick Lee Sokn
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Patent number: 5799383Abstract: An apparatus for crimping connectors on the ends of hoses includes a clamping machine having first and second moveable portions, a first measuring device associated with the clamping machine for delivering a signal representative of the linear distance between the moveable portions, and a controller operatively connected to the first measuring device and the clamping machine, for receiving the signal and stopping the relative movement of the first and second moving portions when the signal reaches a predetermined setting. The controller adjusts the relative movement of the moveable portions in response to input recorded on crimped connectors.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1997Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Arden E. Baldwin, William G. Clelland, III, John Styfhoorn
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Patent number: 5749138Abstract: A connecting and fitting method is provided for metallic pipes with a small diameter. The method includes providing a piping component having a tube wall extending therefrom and defining an expanded chamber. The method further includes providing a pipe member and forming at least one circumferential discontinuity in the pipe member near one end. The end of the pipe member is then inserted through an annular sealing component and into the expanded chamber defined by the tube wall. A diameter reducing area is then formed on the tube wall at a location substantially registered with the circumferential discontinuity in the pipe member to squeeze and tightly seal the sealing component into connecting engagement with the circumferential discontinuity on the pipe member.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1995Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha LimitedInventors: Masayoshi Usui, Katsushi Umezawa
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Patent number: 5724735Abstract: A catalytic exhaust treatment device for an automotive vehicle includes a generally cylindrical substrate having a support seal at either end and with each of the support seals encircling an end of the substrate, and an intumescent mat applied to the cylindrical surface of the substrate, with the mat extending between the support seals. The catalyst further includes a cylindrical container having an inside diameter sized so as to compress the support seals and the mat such that the seals and mat are maintained in contact with the substrate and the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1996Date of Patent: March 10, 1998Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Walter D. Ickes, Andrew J. Montalbano
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Patent number: 5722150Abstract: An assembly for attaching a new hose to an existing fitting includes an expandable split ring having an internal diameter less than the diameter of a preformed radially outwardly extending annular wall on the fitting, and a collar that is positionable over the fitting and the expandable split ring. The collar has a radially inwardly extending wall portion and a deformable sleeve portion. The split ring is positionable adjacent the annular wall on the fitting, and the radially inwardly extending wall portion of the collar is positionable in an abutting relationship with the expandable split ring. The deformable sleeve portion of the collar is inwardly deformable to provide retention of the collar, split ring, and hose on the fitting. The present invention solves the problem of the need for new fittings when modifying existing refrigeration systems to accept new refrigerants.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1997Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: BLR EnterprisesInventor: Ted A. Swanson, III
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Patent number: 5711061Abstract: A composite package comprising an inner plastic container (10) and an outer sleeve (20), wherein the outer sleeve has an aperture (21) cut into it in the region of one of its edges. The inner plastic container has an integral plastic handle (11) formed along part of one of its edges. When the package is assembled, the aperture in the outer sleeve corresponds with the plastic handle of the inner container, thereby allowing the composite package to be picked up and handled by means of the plastic handle.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 1996Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Alan David Blake, Andre Marie Gustav Jacobs, Annick Antoine Sonia Van Put
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Patent number: 5685057Abstract: A method of assembling a headed bushing from a headless bushing and a bushing head, and the resulting headed bushing. Selecting a bushing head which has a deformable flange and a bushing engaging sector on its inside cylindrical wall. Selecting a headless bushing and forming a groove on its exterior surface to engage with the deformable flange, and a head engaging sector to engage with the bushing engaging sector. Assembling the two together and upsetting the flange into the groove to hold the assembly together.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1995Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Assignee: CBC Industries, Inc.Inventor: Gary Tsui
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Patent number: 5671522Abstract: A cylinder is closed to form a sealed container for gases and the like. The cylinder is closed by means of a pair of specially constructed end caps each having annular recesses formed around their circumference. The ends of the cylinders are engaged within the recess and joined by magnetic pulse forming. The magnetic pulse foxing force is asserted radially inward against a mandrel which mates with a depression formed in the caps so that the assembled cylinder and cap are squeezed into sealed relation.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: September 30, 1997Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventor: Armand Aronne
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Patent number: 5658181Abstract: A die is disclosed for applying radial force to an eccentric workpiece. The die includes a set of faces that are each inclined from an orthogonal relationship with a different radial plane of the workpiece by an offset angle. The die also includes wedges that are positioned on the faces. They each have a jaw surface and a slide surface that are inclined from a parallel relationship with each other by a wedge angle that equals the offset angle of their respective face. The wedges can move over the faces to abut the workpiece along each of a plurality of transverse planes. In each of these planes, their movement can accommodate the workpiece's eccentricity in that plane. In addition, each jaw surface abuts the workpiece in a tangential relationship.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1995Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Assignee: Hughes Aircraft CompanyInventor: Richard A. Brown, II
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Patent number: 5658025Abstract: A flare-tube assembly is provided that includes a tube having a flare at a forward end thereof which angles outwardly and rearwardly and is generally S-shaped in cross-section. The flare-tube assembly also includes an inverted flare fitting which has external threads, an opening extending therethrough, and a shoulder encircling the opening at a forward end of the fitting. The shoulder has a recessed portion near an outer diameter of the shoulder which is inwardly arcuate in cross-section. The tube extends through the opening with the shoulder of the fitting facing a rear side of the flare. During installation, the fitting is torqued such that the shoulder of the fitting first engages and compresses an outer portion of the flare to form a seal at the outer portion. Upon further torquing, the shoulder of the fitting engages the entire surface of the flare to compress the entire flare.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1995Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Assignee: Universal Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Ralph G. Ridenour
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Patent number: 5553379Abstract: A malleable penile prosthesis adapted to be implanted in a corpus cavemosum of a penis comprising an elongated core which is bendable about its longitudinal axis with the capability of holding the configuration to which it is bent and is substantially rigid when in the unbent straight configuration, a sleeve of braided biocompatible material, having an inner surface and an outer surface, enveloping the core with the inner surface of the sleeve in contact with the core and the sleeve and core being accommodated within an outer tube of elastomeric material, which tube has a substantially rounded smooth outer surface and an inner surface having a profile formed of alternate grooves and ribs in a substantially helical arrangement. A method of forming a malleable prosthesis is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1995Date of Patent: September 10, 1996Assignee: American Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: John W. Westrum, Jr., Mark S. Chace, Charles C. Kuyava
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Patent number: 5546646Abstract: The method for mounting an intravascular stent on the distal end of a catheter. The stent-loading device includes at least two substantially flat surfaces, that are parallel to each other, and that have relative sliding movement while remaining parallel. A stent is placed on the distal end of a catheter and positioned between the substantially flat surfaces which are then moved in an orthogonal direction relative to each other while simultaneous compressive force is applied to the stent. The stent is progressively crimped onto the catheter.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1995Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael S. Williams, Lilip Lau, Farhad Khosravi, William Hartigan, Avegel Hernando
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Patent number: 5544406Abstract: A malleable tube is assembled to a rigid fitting by placing the end of the tube over one end of the fitting which has a barb with a locking face facing away from the end of the fitting and a sloping face facing the end of the fitting, the tube is gripped with jaws which have an inward nose projection of a small axial extent and this nose projection grips the tube at about the end of the fitting, force is applied between the fitting and the jaws to relatively move the fitting and tube longitudinally into the jaws until the nose projection has relatively moved past the barb on the fitting.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Assignee: Universal Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Ralph G. Ridenour, Dennis W. Kerr
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Patent number: 5536100Abstract: A mechanically joined connection includes a tubular extension having a wall defining an interior space, and an insert member having a protruding end, the protruding end being configured to be inserted into the interior space of the tubular extension. The protruding end has an irregular outer surface and the wall is inwardly extruded into close frictional contact with the irregular outer surface around the circumference of the tubular extension, whereby the tubular extension is frictionally and reliably retained on the insert member without the need for separate fasteners. In particular, a wiper pivot assembly for a vehicle is shown including a connecting tube and a pair of pivot forming members mechanically joined at the ends of the tube. Also, a jack extension tube for a vehicle seat is shown including a jack extension screw and nut, and an extension tube mechanically joined to the nut.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1994Date of Patent: July 16, 1996Assignee: RAN Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: James Kiefer
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Patent number: 5522280Abstract: The connecting link is manufactured from an elongated hollow extrusion of aluminum, which can be cut to any desired length and bent, as required. Molded plastic coupling members have tongues which are inserted into the open ends of the hollow extrusion and crimped in place to hold them securely. The coupling members have integrally formed socket structures to receive complementary ball structures which form the pivot connections of the wiper system.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1993Date of Patent: June 4, 1996Assignee: United Technologies Motor Systems, Inc.Inventor: Daniel P. Bexten
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Patent number: 5499439Abstract: An end fitting is secured to a flexible metal hose comprised of a corrugated tube enclosed in a tubular braid in a manner that provides a single weld operation. An end of the hose is cut to bring the tube and braid ends into alignment. Thereafter, an end fitting is moved over the hose end and radially swaged into gripping engagement with the hose. A circumferential deep penetration weld integrally secures all the components, namely, the tube, the braid, and the fitting.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1994Date of Patent: March 19, 1996Assignee: Swagelok Quick-Connect Co.Inventors: Stephen J. Zaborszki, Gregory Kreczko
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Patent number: 5485668Abstract: A swaging station incorporates a drawing tower that automatically draws, cuts, and inserts an indefinite length strand of suture material within the suture receiving end of a surgical needle for swaging thereof. The suture receiving end of the surgical needle is positioned within a swaging assembly located at the top of the drawing tower that comprises a first fixed swage die and a second movable swage die forming a swage die opening for positively gripping the suture receiving end of the needle positioned therein. A first suture alignment die and a second suture alignment die are precisely registered below and adjacent the respective first and second swage dies to form a lower funnel guide that is axial with the swage die opening for positioning the tip of the suture strand therein. The lower funnel guide has an exit diameter that is larger than the diameter of the suture tip and smaller than the diameter of the suture receiving end of the needle for easy placement of the suture tip therein.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1995Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.Inventors: David Demarest, Robert B. Duncan, William Rattan
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Patent number: 5480287Abstract: Method for manufacturing pumping devices, particularly usable in sports shoes, including the monolithic molding of a body having at least one tubular passage and a first and a second seat for air venting and intake valves. The body furthermore includes at least one chamber with a partially open elastically deformable wall. The method entails the closure of the chamber, whereas the valves and at least one inflatable plenum chamber are associable within the body thus obtained, before closing it. The pumping device thus obtained has optimum functional characteristics as well as very low manufacturing costs.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1994Date of Patent: January 2, 1996Assignee: Nordica S.p.A.Inventors: Adolfo Pozzebon, Alessandro Pozzobon, Alessandro Morandin
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Patent number: 5451036Abstract: A metallurgical dart includes an enlarged refractory head having a top, a bottom, and a central through hole extending from top to bottom of the head and lined with a metallic sleeve, with a portion of the lining sleeve projecting beyond the top and/or bottom of the head; an elongate tail of refractory material with an external and/or internal metallic element and of external diameter slightly less than the internal diameter of the lining sleeve, such that the tail can pass, as a close fit, through the lining sleeve of the head; and at least one crimped or other joint between the metallic element of the tail and the projecting portion of the lining sleeve, to fix the head and tail together.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1994Date of Patent: September 19, 1995Assignee: Monocon International LimitedInventor: Owen Eastwood
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Patent number: 5442846Abstract: Joinder of two adjacent segments of steel pipe having an outer diameter of at least 12 inches, by a bridging sleeve, the sleeve being joined to both pipe segments by magnetic forming. Apparatus enabling the process includes a segmented ring-shaped coil brought together around the joinder, to form a complete coil circuit for magnetic forming.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1993Date of Patent: August 22, 1995Inventor: Alvin A. Snaper
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Patent number: 5426843Abstract: A method for compressively forming a ferrule about a cord is provided. The method utilizes two successive compressive forming steps. In the first step, the starting ferrule is formed into a crescent-like configuration in side elevation. In the second step, the crescent-like configuration is formed into a cardioid-like configuration in side elevation. The method can be practiced using a hand-operated forceps that is equipped with shaping dies. The resulting so formed ferrule displays superior cord holding and retaining characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1994Date of Patent: June 27, 1995Assignee: ARI Imports, Inc.Inventor: W. Scott Bartky
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Patent number: 5421623Abstract: A friction sealed coupling assembly (10) for connecting sections of pipe (P1, P2) having a connecting sleeve (12) and a pair of opposed draw sleeves (14, 16). The connecting sleeve is formed of a hollow cylinder (24) having a uniform inner diameter (D2) and an outer diameter that decreases from a midpoint (M) toward each open end (26, 28) resulting in diverging external tapers (T1, T2). One of the draw sleeves is placed over each taper of the connecting sleeve, each draw sleeve having a uniform outer diameter and an inner diameter that decreases from the first end to the second end creating an inner taper. The inner wall of each draw sleeve is oppositely tapered to the corresponding connecting sleeve end. Each draw sleeve has a bolting flange formed at one end. Ends of the sections of pipe to be connected are first inserted in each end of the connecting sleeve. The opposed draw sleeves are drawn together by tightening connecting bolts (22) so the sleeves move toward each other.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1994Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Inventor: Allen E. Cassin
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Patent number: 5419032Abstract: An apparatus for forming a container closure includes at least one driving wheel, at least one biasing wheel, a first bending wheel and a second bending wheel. The biasing wheel operates to hold a metal band having a first edge and a second edge against the driving wheel. While the band is rotated by the driving wheel, the first bending wheel bends the first edge of the band and, subsequently, the second bending wheel bends the second edge of the band. The apparatus operates to form the container closure without an operator having to stop the apparatus after the first edge is bent to turn the band over so that the second edge can be bent.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1993Date of Patent: May 30, 1995Assignee: A.R. Tech & Tool, Inc.Inventor: Andrew Rytych
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Patent number: 5394768Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a multi strand bicycle pull cable with a fixed cable anchor at either terminal end thereof, wherein the cable directly forward of the anchors is provided with a fixative to prevent unraveling after a cable anchor has been removed,A bicycle pull cable comprised of a multi strand metal cable (1) having a cable anchor (2) secured to either end, portions of the cable at least directly abutting the anchors are bound (3) by a fixing agent to prevent unwinding of the strands of the cable after an anchor has been cut from the cable by cutting across a bound portion of the cable.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1993Date of Patent: March 7, 1995Inventor: Orrin S. Hallock, III
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Patent number: 5351383Abstract: A method of making an injection and sampling site adapted to receive a blunt cannula. The method comprises providing an elastomeric septum, and a housing adapted to receive that septum; making a slit in the elastomeric septum; inserting the elastomeric septum into the passageway of the housing; and swaging an outer annular ledge on the housing inwardly over the septum until a septum-engaging portion of the swaging tool applies a predetermined amount of force to the septum. Before the swaging step, a pin is inserted into the passageway of the housing against the inside end of the septum to inhibit deformation of the septum during swaging.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1993Date of Patent: October 4, 1994Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Brett A. Behnke, Gary A. Thill
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Patent number: 5347701Abstract: A tube union for coupling the ends of a pair of tubes which are butted together includes a sleeve and two swaging collars about the sleeve without other components. Grooves and lands in the sleeve mate with a tube which is deformed into the grooves as the sleeve is urged inwardly under compression. The rings are urged centrally towards the central position of the sleeve by a tool constituted by two housing members which each have several components. Torsional wrenching of the housing members screws the housing members together, causing the collars to deform the sleeve. Thereafter pins are removed from the one housing members and the wrench from the other. This permits separation of the housing members from the swaging collars. The tool can effect connection or assembly of different elements.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1993Date of Patent: September 20, 1994Assignee: Sierracin CorporationInventors: Amir P. Hosseinian, John L. Binford
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Patent number: 5317799Abstract: A hose construction, hose coupling therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the hose construction comprising a combination of a hose coupling and a tubular hose having one end thereof clamped in an annular recess of the coupling, the coupling having a longitudinal axis and comprising a tubular insert portion inserted into the end of the hose and having an external peripheral surface that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a tubular ferrule portion disposed in substantially concentric and spaced relation about the insert portion to define the annular recess therebetween and being radially inwardly deformed toward the longitudinal axis so as to clamp the end of the hose between the ferrule portion and the insert portion, the ferrule portion having a plurality of inwardly directed and axially spaced apart annular ridges deformed into the end of the hose, the ferrule portion comprising an outer generally cylindrical section having an inner peripheral surface provided with opposedType: GrantFiled: May 13, 1993Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Assignee: Dayco Products, Inc.Inventors: Charles L. Chapman, Randy C. Foster
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Patent number: 5297337Abstract: Rubber compositions are disclosed for integral attachment of polymeric and metallic materials. Improved bondability is attributed to the use of a selected base rubber blended with a selected class of inorganic or organic fillers, silane compounds and vulcanizing agents such that the finished composition is provided with a specified range of Mooney viscosities. Also disclosed is a method of hose-metal fitting connection by the application of the composition. Gas- and oil-impermeability characteristics are greatly enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1992Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shigeru Igarashi, Osamu Ozawa, Tetsu Kitami
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Patent number: 5280674Abstract: An apparatus for attaching a shrinkable tubing to a surgical needle and a heat labile suture is provided. The apparatus includes a mechanism for desensitizing the tip of the heat labile suture along with a mechanism for situating a shank portion of the needle and the tip of the suture within the heat shrinkable tubing. The apparatus also includes a device for applying energy to the shrinkable tubing to effect attachment of the needle and the suture.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1991Date of Patent: January 25, 1994Assignee: United States Surgical CorporationInventors: Richard N. Granger, Michael S. Kassim
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Patent number: 5267758Abstract: A ferrule for attaching a hose end portion to a male-stem, the ferrule having a tubular socket portion that retains a bendable sleevelike insert having substantially a C-shape when viewed in cross-section. Oppositely facing circumjacent edges of the C-shaped insert may have teeth as a means for interdigitating with each other when the ferrule is used to couple hose.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1991Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Assignee: The Gates Rubber CompanyInventors: Dilip K. Shah, Satish M. Chohan