Abstract: A device is disclosed for supplying swageable collars from a magazine to a swaging tool such that the collars may be affixed to the shanks of lockbolts in a series of application steps. The feeder device can be mounted on the nose assembly of a swaging tool so that collar feeding and swaging can be accomplished in a single-handed operation. The feeder device responds to contact pressure against a work surface during a collar placement maneuver to release a collar from a presentation position for normal swaging. Releasing pressure on the workpiece allows a lower assembly of the feeder device to lift the next collar available from a magazine into the presentation position for application to the next lockbolt shank in a series of lockbolts to be finished.

Abstract: A pool cover assembly includes a first encapsulation member defining a first side of a pool cover encapsulation, the first encapsulation member comprising a first mating feature. The pool cover assembly further includes a second encapsulation member defining a second side of the pool cover encapsulation, the second encapsulation member comprising a second mating feature. And the pool cover assembly further includes a corner endcap member comprising a third mating feature and a fourth mating feature. The first encapsulation member is coupleable to the corner endcap by the first mating feature and the third mating feature, and the second encapsulation member is coupleable to the corner endcap by the second mating feature and the fourth mating feature. The corner endcap member couples with the first encapsulation member and the second encapsulation member to form a corner of the pool cover encapsulation.

Abstract: A solar module mounting bracket assembly includes a rail configured to support a solar module thereon, and a pair of braces. The braces each have a first end portion movably coupled to the rail. The braces are movable relative to the rail between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the braces cooperatively define a channel dimensioned for receipt of a frame member.

Abstract: An optical system can include a receiver secured to a first optical component and a flexure arrangement secured to a second optical component. The flexure arrangement can include a plurality of flexures, each with a free end that can extend away from the second optical component and into a corresponding cavity of the receiver. Each of the cavities can be sized to receive adhesive that secures the corresponding flexure within the cavity when the adhesive has hardened, and to permit adjustment of the corresponding flexure within the cavity, before the adhesive has hardened, to adjust an alignment of the first and second optical components relative to multiple degrees of freedom.

Abstract: A wheel speed sensor comprises a body, the body being overmolded and having a head zone and a coil zone. The wheel speed sensor also includes a cylindrical metallic canister fitted on the coil zone of the body, wherein the head zone has an equal or smaller diameter than the cylindrical metallic canister. The wheel speed sensor also comprises a cable, wherein the cable extends from the head zone. The wheel speed sensor is sized to be blindly insertable entirely through a bore in an associated mounting apparatus.

Abstract: An attachment system for an exhaust component is disclosed. In various embodiments, the attachment system includes a radial attachment flange of the exhaust component; and a radial ring having at least one of a radially outer surface configured for engagement with a radially inner surface of the radial attachment flange or a radially inner surface configured for engagement with a radially outer surface of the radial attachment flange.

Abstract: An improved anti-rotation device and connector assembly designed to prevent rotation of a first threaded portion of the connector assembly with respect to a second threaded portion of the connector assembly is provided. The anti-rotation device and connector assembly include features that guide and smooth the transition of the anti-rotation device into a position extending through the first and second threaded portions. The anti-rotation device may extend through a tab/groove interface between the first and second threaded portions, or the anti-rotation device may engage opposing interfacing edges of the first and second threaded portions along the length of the anti-rotation device. Once the anti-rotation device is installed through the first and second threaded portions, the anti-rotation device may prevent rotation of the threaded portions relative to each other.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automated engagement of a fitting coupled to a structure. A first member of a first engagement device is moved relative to a base in a first direction substantially parallel to an x-axis such that a tapered end portion of the first member passes through a hole in the fitting and moves towards a channel within a second member of a second engagement device. The tapered end portion of the first member is secured within the channel of the second member to thereby engage the fitting between the first engagement device and the second engagement device.

Abstract: An enclosure for air compressors is generally composed of a first shell body and a second shell body, wherein the first shell body defines a plurality of through holes, and the second shell body is formed with a plurality of snap joints. Each through hole is defined by a cylindrical surface and a substantially conical surface, between which a step is defined. In use, the snap joints can be inserted into the through holes respectively to have the snap joints snatched by the steps 14 formed in the through holes, so that the first and second shell bodies can be quickly assembled. In addition, a disassembly tool can be inserted into each through hole to have the snap joints removed from the through holes, so that the enclosure can be quickly disassembled.

Abstract: A nightcap system and assembly for closing a wellhead assembly positioned about a wellbore. The nightcap assembly includes a boom and a hoist. The boom includes a boom cylinder connectable to the wellhead assembly and a boom piston extendable from the cylinder. The hoist includes a hoist cylinder connectable to the wellhead assembly and a hoist piston extendable therefrom. The hoist piston includes a nightcap support to carry a nightcap. The hoist is connectable to the boom piston and movable therewith whereby the nightcap may be inserted into an opening of the wellhead assembly.

Abstract: A dual lumen coaxial cannula assembly includes a first infusion tube having a first elongate body defining a first lumen therethrough and a second drainage tube co-axially aligned with the first infusion tube and having a second elongate body with a second lumen defined by a space between the first infusion tube and second drainage tube. A connector is removably attached to the first infusion tube and the second drainage tube for coupling the dual lumen coaxial cannula to an extracorporeal blood circuit. The first infusion tube and the second drainage tube include a plurality of infusion and drainage apertures, respectively, provided at the distal end and extending through the sidewall of the first infusion tube and the drainage tube, respectively.

Abstract: An adaptor for coupling a surgical tool to a handle having a drive mechanism for operating the surgical tool is provided. The adaptor includes two telescopically connected segments, a first segment being for engaging the surgical tool and a second segment for engaging the handle. When the first and the second segments are telescopically collapsed they operatively link the surgical tool with the handle drive mechanism while preventing user contact with potentially non-sterile regions of the handle and/or tool.

Abstract: An improved joint is provided for modular furniture. The joint includes a dowel and slot. The dowel is held in the slot tightly to provide stiffness to the joint. The dowel may include a flanged head which is bent elastically by the slot when the dowel is fully inserted into the slot. The head of the dowel may be maintained in a bent configuration when the joint is in assembled configuration.

Abstract: An end link for use with heavy equipment includes a body and a swivel ball bushing. The body has first and second openings and defines a main body plane. The first opening has a slot located on a side thereof proximate the second opening and a truncated substantially spherical inner surface. The swivel ball bushing is seated within the first opening. The swivel ball bushing has a truncated substantially spherical outer surface in nesting engagement with the inner surface of the body and a projection at one end seated in the slot. The projection and slot are shaped to allow rotation of the swivel ball bushing relative to the body in two opposing directions about one axis of rotation or two mutually perpendicular axes of rotation.

Abstract: A stabilizer designed to be used in a single shear fastening configuration to secure a composite panel to an adjacent material is disclosed. The front side of the composite panel is flush with the adjacent material and the back of the composite panel is flush with the stabilizer. As a result, the adjacent material and the stabilizer sandwich the composite panel and mimic a double shear configuration. The stabilizer helps to prevent fastening devices (e.g., screws, rivets, nails) from pulling through the composite panel and adds to the mechanical strength of the fastening application.

Abstract: An improvement to a semi-autonomous apparatus is described herein. In an apparatus having a gantry subassembly, a tram subassembly movably mounted on the gantry subassembly, and an actuation subassembly mounted on the tram subassembly, the improvement includes a gripper subassembly operatively connected to the actuation subassembly. The movement of the subassemblies is controlled in part by a control system that controls drive systems associated with one or more of the subassemblies. The gantry subassembly includes a bridge member for laterally spanning a selected section of a work site. The tram subassembly includes a tram that travels laterally along to the bridge member. The actuation subassembly includes at least one motion actuator for controlling the movement of the gripper subassembly in a generally vertical direction and may include an additional motion actuator for movement in a generally horizontal direction.

Abstract: A method for autonomously constructing structural bodies in a zero gravity environment utilizes an assembly line space structure to fabricate segments for constructing a modular space structure. An assembly housing provides an open ended structure through which materials are processed in order to construct a segment. The materials are loaded into a plurality of workstations positioned along the assembly housing through the use of a plurality of external manipulators adjacently connected to the assembly housing. Each of the plurality of workstations provides the equipment for sequentially loading materials into the assembly housing. An assembly line conveyor, positioned throughout the plurality of workstations, guides materials through the assembly housing as the materials are mated to form the segment. Upon completion of the segment, a plurality of segment transport units transports the segment to an orbital construction site, wherein the segment is mated with subsequent segments to form the space station.

Abstract: A method for configuring a hand-held riveting tool operated by an electric drive to set a blind rivet element in a setting operation. The hand-held riveting tool includes a mandrel configured to perform an axial movement so as to perform the setting operation of the blind rivet element, and a control unit which monitors the axial movement of the mandrel. The mandrel includes a front end position to which the blind rivet element is fitted in a form-locked manner and/or a force-locked manner. The method includes axially moving the mandrel from the front end position into a rear end position which is assumed at a beginning of the setting operation, and automatically adjusting the rear end position of the mandrel based on a parameter provided to the control unit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting an object. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a support structure, a positioning system, and a retention system. The positioning system may be associated with the support structure and configured to position the support structure with respect to a number of linear axes. The retention system may be associated with the support structure. The retention system may be configured to retain a portion of an object and move the portion of the object towards a platform such that the portion of the object substantially conforms to a shape of the platform.

Abstract: The method for manufacturing the structure includes an imaging device installation process in which a camera 41 that obtains an image of a target hole 33 formed in an upper panel 31 is installed on the rear spar 22, and a positioning process in which relative positions are positioned by relatively moving the upper panel 31 and the rear spar 22 while the image of the target hole 33 obtained by the camera 41 and displayed on a monitor screen is aligned with a target line preset on the monitor screen.

Abstract: A method for forming a joint in at least one high strength sheet steel having a UTS in the range 200 to 1400 MPa using a self-piercing rivet includes the steps of: positioning the sheet material over a die and providing a rivet having a substantially cylindrical shank and a head, the shank having a central blind bore and an annular piercing end spaced from said head. The ratio of the difference between the outside and inside diameters of the shank in the region around the bore to the outside diameter of the shank is in the range 0.47 to 0.52. The method also includes positioning a rivet over the sheet material at a position opposite the die and using a punch to set the rivet and force it into the sheet material such that it pierces the upper surface thereof and such that the shank deforms outwardly to interlock with the material but without penetration to the die side of the material.

Abstract: An offshore airborne wind turbine system including an aerial vehicle, an electrically conductive tether having a first end secured to the aerial vehicle and a second end secured to a platform, a rotatable drum positioned on the platform, an aerial vehicle perch extending from the platform, wherein the platform is positioned on a top of a spar buoy.

Abstract: A sensor detects a workpiece ready for transportation by means of an outwardly hanging contact arm which, when the workpiece is dropped or placed on a carrying frame, is pushed back into a groove in the body of the sensor and in that location gives a contact signal to start the transport, avoiding damage to the hanging arm or to its mechanism otherwise caused by the continuing weight or impact of the dropped or placed workpiece.

Abstract: A vehicle body, in particular a rail vehicle body, includes at least one body shell profile and at least one interior fitting connected to the body shell profile. The interior fitting is held on the body shell profile by at least one fastening element which is slipped or pushed onto the body shell profile using a clip section and clamped there.

Abstract: A graphic sign fixture is described for use with a vehicle. The graphic sign fixture comprises at least two legs, a sign frame system, and a graphic sign. Each leg includes an upper post section, a lower post section, and a base section. The sign frame system comprises either a silicone edge graphic frame or a first sign frame cross-section member; a second sign frame cross-section member; and a locking system. The weight of the vehicle holds the legs in an upright position when the vehicle's wheels contact the base sections. The method comprises providing a graphic sign fixture, assembling the graphic sign fixture, and placing the wheels of a vehicle in contact with the base sections of the graphic sign fixture, such that the weight of the vehicle holds the legs of the graphic sign fixture in an upright position.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a flooring apparatus provides improved fraction, improved wear resistance and improved structural support. The flooring apparatus may include an elongated member that includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface may include a cutout portion that extends along at least a portion of a longitudinal axis of the elongated member. One or more inserts are positioned at least partially within the cutout portion. The insert may include a texturized top surface and may be constructed of a polymer material or other material with improved traction and, in certain embodiments, improved wear resistance.

Abstract: A method of securing two components to each other includes locating a mounting strip at a first mounting flange of a first component. The mounting strip is slidably affixed to the first component and includes a plurality of strip openings and a tightening ramp located at each strip opening of the plurality of strip openings. A second component is located such that a second mounting flange of the second component abuts the first mounting flange. A plurality of fasteners are located at the second mounting flange. A fastener of the plurality of fasteners extends through each strip opening of the plurality of strip openings. The mounting strip is slid in a direction to increase tension on the plurality of fasteners via an increasing height of the tightening ramp under a fastener head of the fastener, thereby securing the first mounting flange to the second mounting flange.

Abstract: An example method for stabilizing a sensor component includes: positioning a portion of the sensor component relative to a support with a plurality of retaining members in contact with the portion of the sensor component, the plurality of retaining members including at least a first one of the retaining members being a resilient biasing member and a second one of the retaining members being an adjustable retaining member; adjusting the adjustable retaining member to reposition the portion of the sensor component relative to the support and deform the resilient retaining member; immobilizing the portion of the sensor component relative to the support with an additional, rigid retaining member in contact with the portion of the sensor component; and filling a space between the portion of the sensor component and the support with a glue.

Abstract: A set of furniture assembly modules adapted to hold members of a piece of furniture together in a preassembled position prior to or during final assembly. The set of furniture assembly modules comprising at least one corner module having a face member and at least two side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the corner module is formed having an L-shape, and at least one intermediate module having a face member and at least three side wall members extending perpendicularly from the face member in the same direction, wherein the face member of the intermediate module is formed having a T-shape, such that a user can incorporate any necessary number of corner and intermediate modules required to hold the piece of furniture together in the pre assembled position prior to or during final assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is a connector for connecting an electrical cable to an aperture in an electrical panel. The assembled connector has a spring ring, a shell, and a block along a longitudinal axis. The spring ring has a base from which two insertion tabs extend coaxial with the axis. The block has a joining wall and a springing feature. The shell has a through opening coaxial with the axis. The insertion tabs retain the spring ring in the shell's through opening, and the springing feature retains the block in the shell's through opening. The insertion tabs of the spring ring have hook latches extending past the block that lock the connector in the panel. And the base of the spring ring has a hole to receive the cable where first and second clamping tabs clampably lock the cable in the connector.

Abstract: A locking assembly is provided for securing an electronic module to a chassis of a rack enclosure within a mounting slot of the chassis. The locking assembly includes a lock configured to be secured to a vertical rail of the chassis. The lock further is configured to prevent the electronic module from being slidably installed into and removed from its respective mounting slot and to prevent a latch of the electronic module from being opened when the electronic module is secured in place within the chassis of the rack enclosure. The locking assembly further includes a key configured to enable the lock to be removed from the chassis thereby enabling the installation and removal of the electronic module from the chassis.

Abstract: An elongate web is attached to the root end of a spar of a wind turbine rotor blade to provide additional support along the width of the blade. The root end is formed by a winding operation, and a recess is then cut into the surface of the spar. The recess is defined by a relatively large first, cylindrical surface, which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the root end, and a relatively small second, conical surface. A tapered end of the elongate web is attached within the recess of the root end using a layer of suitable adhesive and an array of pins. Resilient spacer elements are arranged within the recess so as to surround the pins. The large area of the cylindrical surface causes the tensile and compressive stresses which arise along the elongate web in use to be transmitted to the spar as shear stresses.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for facilitating rotation of a mattress in a horizontal plane carried by a box spring or a platform. In order to facilitate rotation, slick surfaces between the mattress and the box spring or platform are selectively placed in engagement with each other, in one embodiment of the invention. The slick surfaces may be provided by two (2) separate covers; one cover for the mattress and one cover for the box spring, platform or bed skirt. One cover is provided with a slick and non-slick surface. The other cover may be the same as the first cover or may have sock surfaces on two sides. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, one of the covers may be provided as a protective cover that encapsulates the entire mattress. In another alternate embodiment, one cover may be provided that cooperates with a suck surface that is integrally provided on one or the other of the mattress or box spring or platform.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable for installation in a subterranean formation, where the temperature could be in excess of 150 degrees C. The optical fiber cable has an outer metallic jacket defining an elongated conduit with an internal elongated channel that receives an optical fiber. The optical fiber has two strands joined by a splice. A splice protector has a body with a passageway receiving the splice. The body has an outer region configured to be joined by a fusion weld to the outer metallic jacket.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a positioning system for electromagnetic riveting. The apparatus comprises a plate and a biasing system physically associated with the plate. The plate is configured to be positioned relative to a first workpiece, and is further configured to electromagnetically engage an electromagnetic tool. The biasing system is configured to physically engage a second workpiece. The biasing system is further configured to hold the plate in a desired position relative to the first workpiece during a number of operations performed by the electromagnetic tool while the plate is electromagnetically engaged with the first workpiece.

Abstract: Provided is a die plate assembly for an underwater pelletizing system, wherein molten plastic flows through a die plate and exits into a fluid bath for further processing. The assembly provides a seal against water leakage and effective insulation to prevent heat loss from a heated die plate. The assembly includes a die plate having a plurality of through holes for receiving fasteners for mounting the plate to another portion of the pelletizer system, and at least one insulation chamber for insulating the die plate from the fluid bath located on a downstream side of the die plate. The assembly further includes at least one gasket covering one or more of the through holes to seal one or more through holes from the fluid bath.

Abstract: A jig apparatus fastening loaded trays having light emitting devices received therein, includes a body and first and second extending portions. The body has a bent structure in a length direction thereof. The first and second extending portions are respectively bent and extend from a first end and a second end of the body in the length direction thereof.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for an insulating cover for fasteners. In one advantageous embodiment, an apparatus comprises a washer and a cover. The washer is capable of receiving a fastener. The cover is capable of being secured to the insulating washer, wherein an insulating volume is created with the cover secured to the washer.

Abstract: The pulley device for a belt or chain tensioning idler or runner roller comprises a pulley (12), a roller bearing (14), a spacer (18) for the mounting of the rolling bearing (14) and being capable of pressing against an element external to the device, a fastening screw (20) immobilized axially relative to the spacer (18), and at least one retaining ring (22) which is elastic radially and which is mounted inside a groove (60) made on the fastening screw (20), a portion of the ring (22) protruding radially into a recess (52) of the spacer (18).

Abstract: A portable container assembly that can include a wheeled hand cart for transporting articles mounted on a platform or basket can be mounted in an elevated, horizontal position on the rear of a vehicle. The hand cart includes a downwardly facing channel that can be aligned with and inserted over a support bar extending from the rear of a hitch receiver on a vehicle. Upright handles on the hand cart supply sufficient mechanical advantage to allow the user to first tilt the and cart, and when the channel is aligned with the support bar, the hand cart can be rotated so that it is lifted into position and supported by the support bar on a vehicle. The support bar is attachable to and detachable from a conventional hitch receiver. A cooler can also be mounted directly to and supported only by the hitch extension.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tie and a method for tying at least one object. More particularly, the tie has a strip, which includes a tip, a connecting end opposite the tip and a plurality of teeth arranged on the strip between the tip and the connecting end, and a plurality of locking members, which are connected to the connecting end of the strip. Each of the locking members includes an opening for passage of the strip therethrough and a locking tab for engaging at least one of the teeth so as to allow the strip to move through the opening of a corresponding one of the locking members only in one direction.

Abstract: A mountable cable tie with fine adjustment with an elongated strap having a first strap end and a second strap end, the elongated strap having one or more rows of teeth or cross-bars formed crosswise on the elongated strap, and a plurality of holes positioned linear along the median between the one or more rows of teeth, at least one locking buckle positioned proximate the second strap end, the at least one locking buckle having at least one channel and at least one locking tang or pawl positioned within the locking buckle, wherein increased insertion of the first strap end into the locking head decreases the size of the loop of the elongated strap to secure the bundle.

Abstract: A fence system for strengthening a vinyl fence which includes a plurality of fence posts having specified dimensions, and the posts have a hollow interior. A plurality of section panels include specified dimensions, and the section panels each including a slat portion. The section panels each include a fence railing coupled to a top and bottom of the slat portion. The fence railings each define a hollow interior, and the fence railings are coupled to the posts by a connecting portion of the fence railings passing through corresponding holes in the posts. A strengthening member for positioning in each of the hollow portions of the top and bottom fence railings. A plurality of post members for positioning within the hollow interior at the top of the fence posts. The post members being attachable to the connecting portion of the fence railing using a first attachment element.

Abstract: A fastener for a vehicle lamp assembly has an adjustable stud and grommet. Positioning grooves on the stud interact with positioning fingers on the grommet in a ratcheting fashion to allow more accurate alignment of the lamp assembly prior to securing the lamp assembly to a vehicle.

Abstract: Systems for and methods of insulating an uninsulated railroad car that include a plurality of insulation segments that are nonpermanently secured to interior surfaces of walls and a ceiling of the railroad car.

Abstract: A design is described for solar panel that allows for modular installation and efficient removal of panels irrespective of the panel's relative location in an array arrangement. A system is provided that includes a plurality of modular panels (such as solar power panels). These panels are rimmed by frames featuring one or more exterior-facing, grooved channels. A first channel—which may be used to mount the panel, and which replaces traditional railing installation systems—and a second channel that is configured to allow movement of one or more panel splices used to secure the panels together. Integrated electrical connection interfaces are provided on opposite side surfaces of the frames to couple with the electrical connection interfaces of adjacent panels to establish an electrical path between them.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to extrusion-coated hardware integrated structural systems, as well as methods of making and using the same. Hardware integrated structural systems of the present invention may exhibit enhanced strength, functionality, and/or durability, while being simpler to assemble and more aesthetic than similar conventional systems. Structural systems according to embodiments of the present invention can be suitable for use in a variety of applications, including as ready-to-assemble furniture or cabinetry or as building and construction materials such as wall board, flooring, trim, and the like.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and process for handling and/or manufacturing articles. At least one article support configured to support an article is coupled to a transfer beam configured to reciprocally move along a first axis. The reciprocal movement of the transfer beam moves the at least one article support between two stations, such that an article supported by the article support may be conveyed between the two stations.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to extrusion-coated structural systems including one or more reinforced structural members, as well as methods of making and using the same. Structural systems of the present invention that include at least one reinforced member may exhibit enhanced strength, functionality, and/or durability, while being simpler to assemble and more aesthetic than similar conventional systems. Structural systems according to embodiments of the present invention can be suitable for use in a variety of applications, including as ready-to-assemble furniture or cabinetry or as building and construction materials such as wall board, flooring, trim, and the like.

Abstract: A filter housing comprising an accommodation space for accommodating a filter is disclosed, wherein the filter housing further comprises at least one connector-like coupling element configured to indirectly or directly mate with at least one mating coupling element of a mating filter housing; and wherein the coupling element is integrally formed on a portion of the filter housing.