Multipart Cooperating Fastener (e.g., Bolt And Nut) Patents (Class 29/525.02)
  • Publication number: 20150003932
    Abstract: An elastomeric cap for concealing a fastener used to secure an object (e.g., an elastomeric object such as foam padding or the like) to a substrate (e.g., frame, wall, etc.). A head of a fastener may be inserted through an aperture in one wall of the cap and into an internal cavity of the cap. A shank of the fastener may be at least partially inserted into or through an aperture of the object (e.g., and the substrate). A tool (e.g., screwdriver, torque wrench, etc) may be inserted through an opposing aperture in an opposing second wall of the cap and used to manipulate the fastener head and thus the shank to secure the object to the substrate via clamping of the object between the fastener head and opposing second wall of the cap on one hand and the substrate on the other hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Mark A. Naylor, Laurel L. Skaggs, Charles D. Stricker, JR.
  • Publication number: 20150003931
    Abstract: A high speed fastener member and method of assembling duct sections, uses an externally threaded element having a threaded portion of known diameter, and a piloted nut having a threaded cavity configured to threadedly receive the externally threaded portion, and an open ended unthreaded cavity connected to the threaded cavity, the unthreaded cavity having a known diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the externally threaded portion and being aligned with the threaded cavity. The externally threaded portion is inserted through holes of associated corner elements of flanges of the duct sections, and into the unthreaded cavity to align the threaded portion for threaded engagement, and at least one of the nut and externally threaded element is rotated to threadedly engage them to hold the duct flanges together, eliminating need to start the engagement by hand and allow fastening using a power tool such as a drill only.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Herbert J. Fischer
  • Patent number: 8918974
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for adjusting the alignment of an axle so that adjustments to toe, camber, and/or thrust can be more readily achieved. In one embodiment, a pair of non-parallel shims is located between flange elements. Positioning elements are located along the flange elements at a position outside the peripheral edge of the shims. Upon application of a torque to the positioning elements, the flange elements can be pushed apart or pulled together so as to provide for access to the shims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignees: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A., Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin
    Inventor: Zachary A. Merrill
  • Patent number: 8920593
    Abstract: The method and device provided herein relates to the field of screwed joints for panels and, in particular, for sandwich panels used in aerospace applications. It relates to a method for attaching a headless rivet nut to a wall of such a panel. The method comprises: injecting a predetermined quantity of adhesive into a blind hole made in the wall of the panel; fitting the headless rivet nut onto a rivet nut setting tool, the rivet nut setting tool comprising a pierced anvil and a mandrel passing through the anvil, the mandrel being screwed into the rivet nut so as to press the rivet nut onto the anvil; positioning the headless rivet nut in the blind hole, the anvil coming to press against the wall of the panel; setting the rivet nut so as to squeeze the wall of the panel between the anvil and a flange formed by deformation of the rivet nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Silvain Legrand, Alain Mistral, Damien Legloire
  • Publication number: 20140377034
    Abstract: A security seal fastener system includes a fastener, and an enclosure around a head of the fastener that provides visual evidence of access to the head after installation of the fastener. The enclosure may include a washer that is around a shaft of the fastener, and a cap that closes off an access opening in the washer. The cap has a spring that engages a groove in an inner surface of the washer, to lock the cap in place. A flange of the cap and a ridge of the washer prevent access to the spring. The washer has an anti-rotation feature to prevent rotation of the fastening system while the enclosure is intact. The cap has a knockout that can be perforated or removed to allow access to the head of the fastener, for removal of the fastener. The cap may have an identifier, such as a serial number.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Rodrick R. Cottrell, Paul D. Richwine, Gregory A. Cantrell
  • Patent number: 8910367
    Abstract: A one-piece rigid connector allows a nominal construction wood member to slip axially while fixed at its distal end, to accommodate the naturally occurring shrinkage of lumber. The connector surrounds the wood member and attaches to a second wood member to secure the members together. The connector may be slightly larger radially than the first member to accommodate natural movement. In one embodiment, the connector is made of a light gauge sheet metal and attaches a vertical baluster to the horizontal lower deck rail of an elevated wood deck guard rail system. The connector secures the baluster horizontally, but allows the baluster to move vertically to accommodate expansion or contraction of the baluster after construction. The distal end of the baluster is secured using conventional wood screw attachment. The connector includes tabs on each side to allow fastening of the connector to the lower deck rail using conventional wood screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: BTI, Inc.
    Inventor: Vaughn P. Adams, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140362969
    Abstract: A mounting structure for mounting an x-ray tube on a CT rotatable gantry is disclosed. The mounting structure includes base plates that are boltable to the CT rotatable gantry and have bearing strut connections formed thereon. Spherical bearing struts are provided in the mounting structure to mechanically couple the x-ray tube to the base plates, with the spherical bearing struts each having a first end secured in a respective bearing strut connection of the x-ray tube casing and a second end secured in a respective bearing strut connection of the base plates. The spherical bearing struts constrain a gantry-load direction displacement of the x-ray tube and enable rotation and displacement of the x-ray tube around at least one axis of rotation or in one direction other than a gantry load direction, so as to accommodate thermal displacements in the x-ray tube created during operation thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Ron Kent Hockersmith, Michael Scott Hebert, Kenwood P. Dayton, Alexander Thomas Ryan
  • Publication number: 20140360068
    Abstract: A safety frame designed to go in high security environments (psychiatric wards, prisons, etc.) where framed art is desired for aesthetic reasons, but where there is potential for patients/inmates to hurt themselves or others if they are able to get pull a frame off the wall. The frame includes (a) molding strips joined to form a frame, the molding strips having a back surface and a front surface, with channels provided in front surface of the molding strips, the channels being wide enough to receive screws, and (b) cover strips adapted for being secured to the molding to cover and conceal the channels. Also disclosed is a method for securing a frame to a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jacqueline Fortune Bigoney
  • Publication number: 20140361534
    Abstract: A connector (1) comprises a plurality of latching fingers (5) arranged around a cylindrical body (9) having a central axis (Xc). Each finger has a first end region (5a) extending beyond an end of the body (9) and comprising a first latching structure (4). Each finger is pivotally supported at an intermediate region (5b) by a portion of the body and being movable between a non-latching position and a latching position in which the first end region (5a) is closer to the central axis (Xc) than in the non-latching position. The connector comprises a first actuating member (14) arranged in contact with the plurality of fingers (5) and operable to move the fingers between the non-latching position and the latching position. An actuating means (17) is operable to force a second end region (5 c) of each finger towards the body (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Knut Bekkevold
  • Patent number: 8905440
    Abstract: A grooved-ended resilient expansion joint is disclosed. The expansion joint has a resilient expansion member with a central resilient portion and two resilient axially disposed cylindrical ends. Each cylindrical end has a radially outwardly raised distal cylindrical gasket portion with at least one inside shoulder having an inner diameter sized substantially the same as an outer diameter of a pipe to be joined. Each cylindrical end also has a neck portion between the central portion and the gasket portion that is sized to receive a grooved-ended pipe nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Howard Hagiya
  • Publication number: 20140352151
    Abstract: A method for installing a ventilation hood to an underside of a wall cabinet including providing a ventilation hood having a housing, a removable utility structure with an aligning mechanism and at least one hanger stud. The removable utility structure is placed proximate the wall cabinet in at least one measuring position, wherein the aligning mechanism of the removable utility structure locates anchorage points of the ventilation hood. Hanger studs are secured in the anchorage points. The removable utility structure is secured to the housing in a structural position at least partially covering an electrical system of the ventilation hood. The housing is placed on the hanger studs to secure the ventilation hood proximate the wall cabinet. Electrical power is connected to the electrical system while the housing is secured on the hanger studs. The housing of the ventilation hood is then secured to the wall cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: ZACHARY J. BRUIN-SLOT, ANDREW JAMES GROSE
  • Publication number: 20140352132
    Abstract: A ventilation hood is mounted to an underside of a cabinet, including a bottom panel and a lower support frame positioned above a cooking appliance, by first and second brackets secured below the cabinet at spaced positions aligned with outermost edge portions of the lower support frame and at least one fastener assembly secured to a front portion of the ventilation hood. Multiple embodiments are disclosed for the at least one fastener assembly, including tabs bent from a housing of the ventilation hood, feet threadably attached to the hood, mounting blocks including snap connectors, threaded fasteners, and pinned bolts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: ZACHARY J. BRUIN-SLOT, ANDREW JAMES GROSE
  • Patent number: 8898882
    Abstract: Described is a press-in element for pressing into a non-pierced or pre-pierced component. The press-in element has a head part having a ring surface confronting the component and a neck part which projects away from the ring surface, i.e. from the component contact side. The head part further has a ring-like projection surrounding the neck part with a radial spacing and projecting away from the ring surface. The neck part has a radially outwardly projecting ring bead, which can be formed as a continuous ring bead or as a ring bead interrupted at points. The apex of the ring bead has an axial spacing from the ring surface which is larger than the axial spacing of the apex of the ring-like projection from the ring surface, which lies radially within this projection and together with it and the ring bead forms a pocket which receives material of the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Profil Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Jiri Babej
  • Publication number: 20140346308
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for strengthening a pole comprising a support element for supporting the pole; and fastening means for securing the support element to the pole; wherein the fastening means comprises a pair of mutually engaging fastening parts, including a bolt part and a corresponding nut part adapted to engage with the bolt part; and wherein the support element comprises an aperture adapted to receive a first one of the pair of fastening parts, and wherein at least one of the aperture and the first fastening part is shaped to prevent rotation of the first fastening part when located in the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Babcock Networks Limited
    Inventors: Martin Stanley, Glenn Allsop
  • Publication number: 20140349131
    Abstract: Provided are a method for splitting longitudinally an end part of a metal plate or a metal rod having a rectangular, polygonal, or elliptical shape, in which the length of incision in the split portion can be freely adjusted and smooth split face can be formed; a metal part manufactured by such method; and a method for bonding such metal part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: Masakatsu Seki
  • Patent number: 8894362
    Abstract: A method is provided for adjusting a position of a blade ring relative to a rotor in a gas turbine engine. An outer casing surrounds the blade ring and the blade ring surrounds the rotor. The method comprises: determining an amount of vertical movement needed to reposition the blade ring relative to the rotor so that the blade ring is at a desired position relative to the rotor; providing at least one torque pin assembly comprising a torque pin and a variable thickness defining structure; determining a change in the thickness of the variable thickness defining structure so as to effect the necessary vertical movement of the blade ring; changing the thickness of the variable thickness defining structure; and coupling the at least one torque pin assembly to the outer casing such that at least one torque pin engages the blade ring. A gas turbine engine is provided having structure for adjusting a position of a blade ring relative to a rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard M. Fretwell
  • Patent number: 8893372
    Abstract: A tool assembly for a rotary hammer is provided. The tool assembly includes an adapter and a drive socket removably mounted on the adapter. The adapter has a first end portion configured to be held by a chuck of the rotary hammer and a second end portion that includes a socket square drive fitting on which the drive socket is removably mounted. The socket drive fitting can have any suitable size. For example, the socket drive fitting can be a ¼ inch, a ? inch, a ½ inch, or a ¾ inch square drive fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventors: George Fanourgiakis, Henry H. Hamilton
  • Publication number: 20140339812
    Abstract: A medical connector includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending between the distal end and the proximal end, a helical thread extending radially outward from a surface of the sidewall and comprising a crest portion, flank portions, and a root portion with the flank portions connecting the root portion to the crest portion, and at least one micro-thread extending radially outward from the surface of the sidewall. At least a portion of the micro-thread is spaced apart from the helical thread.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Becton Dickinson and Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Christopher Carney, Paul Paia Marici
  • Publication number: 20140339811
    Abstract: A medical connector includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending between the distal end and the proximal end, a helical thread extending radially outward from a surface of the sidewall and comprising a crest portion, flank portions, and a root portion with the flank portions connecting the crest portion to the root portion, and at least one deformable protrusion extending radially outward from the root portion of the helical thread.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Becton Dickinson and Company Limited
    Inventor: Andrew Wong
  • Publication number: 20140338179
    Abstract: A fastener system for composite structure providing electromagnetic energy (EME) protection incorporates a fastener having a head with an engagement surface and a shank having a threaded end. A nut is received on the threaded end of the fastener, with the nut also having an engagement surface. At least one of the head engagement surface and the nut engagement surface incorporates a reduced area portion for engagement of a first mating surface or second mating surface, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Richard P. Whitlock, Peter A. Coronado, Sean D. Morden, Julie M. Drexler, Randall A. Rogers, Mark A. Woods, Thomas J. Lowe
  • Publication number: 20140339813
    Abstract: A medical connector includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending between the distal end and the proximal end. The medical connector further includes a helical thread extending radially outward from a surface of the sidewall and at least one protrusion extending radially outward from a surface of the sidewall. The at least one protrusion has a first side and a second side. A radial height of the at least one protrusion from the surface of the sidewall tapers circumferentially from the first side of the at least one protrusion to the second side of the at least one protrusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Becton Dickinson and Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Alexander Cederschiöld, Angela Gilbert, Christopher Carney
  • Publication number: 20140333118
    Abstract: In a road milling machine, in particular small milling machine, for working road surfaces, with a machine frame, with a milling drum supported in the machine frame and capable of being driven by a milling drum drive, where stud bolts for mounting the milling drum project from the milling drum drive, said stud bolts, in mounted condition, engaging with cut-outs arranged accordingly in a connecting flange of the milling drum, it is provided for the following features to be achieved: that the milling drum drive comprises, as a minimum, one mounting stud which engages with a corresponding opening adapted to said mounting stud in the connecting flange of the milling drum, wherein the mounting stud projects axially vis-à-vis the stud bolts to such an extent that the milling drum rests on the mounting stud prior to engaging with the stud bolts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Abresch, Dirk Brassel, Cyrus Barimani, Günter Hähn
  • Publication number: 20140331467
    Abstract: A tire mounting apparatus is constructed from a first working mechanism and a second working mechanism that are separate from each other. The first working mechanism is provided with a tire holding device for holding a tire and with a temporary tightening device for temporarily tightening nuts onto hub bolts to which the tire is mounted. The second working mechanism is provided with a final tightening device means for finally tightening the temporarily tightened nuts. The final tightening device includes two nut runners and an interval adjuster for adjusting an interval between the two nut runners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Saeko KOMATSU, Yoshito Otake
  • Patent number: 8881366
    Abstract: A load wheel assembly for a materials handling vehicle includes first and second spaced side members, at least one rotatable roller extending between the first and second side members. An interface structure provides a substantially rigid connection between the load wheel assembly and a mounting structure on the materials handling vehicle. The mounting structure includes a transverse bar and the interface structure includes a portion that engages and mates with the transverse bar to form a rigid connection between the interface structure and the transverse bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Keith G. Bornhorst, Kurt A. Hilgefort
  • Patent number: 8875377
    Abstract: An apparatus and its method of use locate a first piece of a two piece fastener assembly, for example a nut of a nut and bolt fastener assembly on a blind side of a fastener hole in a structure wall where the fastener hole on the blind side of the wall is not manually accessible or not easily manually accessible. The apparatus then holds the nut in alignment with the fastener hole enabling the bolt of the fastener assembly to then be inserted through the fastener hole from the structure exterior and connected to the nut in the interior of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Trevor George Sleath, Andrew Philip Mott
  • Publication number: 20140319256
    Abstract: A liner fastener for fastening a liner to a rotatable shell of a grinding mill, the fastener comprising a flexible tie, retaining means for retaining the fastener relative to the liner, and a tensioning fitting, wherein the flexible tie is adapted to be inserted into a mounting aperture in the shell, and the tensioning fitting is adapted to be fitted to an end portion of the flexible tie protruding outside the shell to bear against the shell and to maintain tension in the fastener to thereby fasten the liner to the shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Lachlan David KNIGHT
  • Publication number: 20140317863
    Abstract: Described in this application is a kit for adapting a paint brush having a handle opening. The kit includes a tool for improving the usefulness of the paint brush; a bushing receivable within the handle opening of the paint brush; a screw for passing through the tool and bushing and joining the tool to the paint brush; and a locking nut for securing the screw to the paint brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Next Future LLC
    Inventors: Michael BEERMEUNDER, Ellen M. BROWN, James L. KENNEDY, Charles R. PATZER
  • Publication number: 20140310944
    Abstract: A tire mounting apparatus is constructed from a first working mechanism and a second working mechanism that are separate from each other. The first working mechanism is provided with a tire holding device for holding a tire and with a temporary tightening device for temporarily tightening nuts onto hub bolts to which the tire is mounted. The second working mechanism is provided with a final tightening device means for finally tightening the temporarily tightened nuts. The final tightening device includes two nut runners and an interval adjuster for adjusting an interval between the two nut runners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Saeko KOMATSU, Yoshito Otake
  • Publication number: 20140311413
    Abstract: A platform bird feeder is provided including a base platform with a seed tray, a baffle and a center pole having a bottom end connected the tray, the baffle being tiltably and adjustably mounted to the pole above the base. Preferably, the seed tray has a seed protecting grate to hinder squirrels from accessing the seed in the tray. The height of the baffle above the seed tray may be adjusted up and down to allow the user to increase and decrease the seed access space, respectively, between the baffle and the tray. When the baffle is at a desired height, it is secured in place by an adjustable securing mechanism that, while holding the baffle at the desired height, allows the baffle to tilt or wobble when sufficient weight is placed on one side of the baffle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Judith Kim HOYSAK
  • Publication number: 20140314547
    Abstract: A first ceramic matrix composite structure having a first flange with a first aperture, and a second structure having a second flange with a second aperture are clamped together by a fastener and spring assembly. The second flange is in contact with the first flange and the apertures of the first and second flanges align with each other. A threaded fastener having a thermal expansion rate that is different than the thermal expansion rate of at least one of the first ceramic matrix composite structure and second structure extends through the aligned apertures. The fastener includes a bolt, a nut, and a spring assembly that maintains a constant clamping pressure irrespective of the thermal expansion differences between the bolt and the first ceramic matrix composite structure and second structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Sander, Shelton O. Duelm
  • Patent number: 8857039
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the conduit connector comprises a body, a cover, and a slide located in the channel. Optionally, the body can comprising a box engagement region capable of engaging an opening in an enclosure and a channel having body sides that diverge from an inlet end toward an outlet end, wherein the sides have a cover connector. The cover can be disposed across the channel and mated with the cover connector. The slide can optionally comprise slide sides that diverge toward the outlet end, a bore extending into the slide from a first end, and protrusions extending from the slide into the channel and having a size and geometry to engage a groove on a conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Sigma Electric Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Ashok Alilughatta Sathyanarayana, Ashwin Mrityunjayagoud Patil, Robert Alan Krosky
  • Patent number: 8857032
    Abstract: A coupling device provides a pre-tensioned coupling between a first member and a second member. The members are arranged to define a sealed compartment. A piston is housed within the compartment and is translated between the first member and the second member. A first ratchet lock is mounted within the second member and on translation of the piston, the first ratchet lock engages with the piston. A second ratchet is mounted within the second member and, on translation of the piston into the second member, the piston engages with the ratchet. The second ratchet is mounted on a piston, and translation of the second ratchet on the piston applies a tensile force to the first piston to tension or pre-tension the piston. As the ratchets substantially prevent reverse movement of the piston, the tensile force is retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Stats (UK) Limited
    Inventors: Angus George Bowie, Peter Alexander Duguid
  • Publication number: 20140298639
    Abstract: A quick fit adjustment mechanism ay include a housing having one end that attaches to a pole and another end with threads that engage threads formed in one paint accessory. A lever may be used to cause actuator pins to extend from the housing to secure another paint accessory to the pole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: The Sherwin-Williams Company
  • Publication number: 20140301804
    Abstract: An adjustable tower stud assembly is disclosed for securing an object, such as a roof rack, to an external panel such as the roof of a vehicle. The object requires more support than can be provided by the external panel and it is also connected to a sub-surface support. Upper and lower collared studs are connected by a threaded connection that allows the length of the tower stud assembly to be adjusted. Stops on a lower collar ground the tower stud assembly to the sub-surface support after the tower stud assembly is adjusted to the proper length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David James Spolyar
  • Patent number: 8844110
    Abstract: A self-closing drawer slide for a refrigerator includes a slide assembly operable between expanded and non-expanded positions and having first and second slides that are slidably engaged. The first slide is removably attached directly or indirectly to the refrigerator interior wall. An actuator is operably coupled to the second slide. A modular self-closing mechanism is releasably attached to an interior refrigerator wall separate from the slide assembly. A slider is attached to a spring and slidably engaged with the self-closing mechanism. The slider is positionable by the actuator between extended and retracted positions. The slider is adapted to be disengaged from the extended position by the actuator, allowing slider movement to the retracted position under force of the spring and which consequently pulls the actuator and a third slide, causing slide assembly movement to the non-expanded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Chad J. Rotter
  • Publication number: 20140286726
    Abstract: A holder in particular for fastening a lining, for at least partially casting into a concrete element which is cast using a formwork, wherein the holder is aligned by an outer surface with the surface of the concrete element pointing towards the formwork, in particular for use in tunnel-building and engineering construction. The holder for casting into a concrete element is made available which can be handled simply for preparation purposes and during the concreting operation and using which a lining can be fastened simply to the concrete element. This is achieved in that a fastening device for releasably fastening the holder to the formwork is provided, wherein the fastening device has a holding part interacting with the formwork and a clamping element arranged on the outer surface of the holder, wherein the clamping element interacts with the holding part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Ludwig Meese
  • Publication number: 20140283363
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for fastening structures. A first end of a body is placed into a hole on a first side of the structures. The body has an outer surface with a noncircular cross-section. A nut element is positioned on a flange at a second end of the body. A bolt is moved into a channel at the first end of the body towards the nut element on the flange on the second end of the body on the first side the structures. The bolt and the nut element are fastened to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: The Boeing Company
  • Publication number: 20140259625
    Abstract: A fastening assembly includes a body and a retaining device. The retaining device is secured to the body for placement along a surface. The body is configured to flex between a relaxed state and a compressed state. The body is compressed between two external surfaces in a compressed state to maintain the alignment and position of the retaining device without the fastener. The flexure of the body causes the body to exert an outward spring force against the external surfaces sufficient to maintain the location of the retaining devices before insertion of a fastener. The fastening assembly includes the fastener for insertion into the retaining device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC.
    Inventors: Dominique Dumas, Jarel Clairoux, Robert Boutin
  • Publication number: 20140259805
    Abstract: The present application discloses a plow blade that may be mounted to a plow moldboard. In one exemplary embodiment, the plow blade comprises one or more blade segments, an elastomeric portion that at least partially surrounds the one or more blade segments and permits the one or more blade segments to move relative to the moldboard, and one or more bushings disposed in the elastomeric portion for attaching the plow blade to the moldboard. The one or more blade segments are generally shaped and positioned within the elastomeric portion such that a portion of each blade segment is disposed between at least one bushing and a top edge of the plow blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: IRONHAWK INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION LLC
    Inventors: Eric Fox, Ron Abramczyk
  • Publication number: 20140275794
    Abstract: A mechanical cap ring/gel pad assembly useful in surgical access devices and methods for making the same, wherein the cap ring and the gel pad are formed separately and then mechanically attached to form a strong seal without the need for heating, solvents or adhesives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew M. Becerra, Jeremy J. Albrecht
  • Publication number: 20140259624
    Abstract: A fastening arrangement and method are provided for coupling a pair of frame members together. The fastening arrangement includes an insert receivable in a slot of one of the frame members. A fastener couples the insert with a receiver, such as a nut or a second insert, receivable in the other of the frame members. The insert includes a notch or similar indicator for indicating the appropriate depth to which the insert is to be driven relative to one of the frame members. The insert includes a threaded portion. The threads of the threaded portion are configured to be embedded into one of the frame members as the insert is driven relative to one of the frame members to secure the insert thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Blanking Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank E. Oetlinger
  • Publication number: 20140265325
    Abstract: A wave washer includes an annular member surrounding an opening arranged to receive a pipe axially therethrough, the annular member having a plurality circumferentially spaced holes formed therein. The wave washer also has associated with it at least one spring portion protruding axially from the annular member between two of the holes. The wave washer can be used in a pipe joint to join a first pipe and a second pipe, each having a pipe end having a pipe flange and an adjacent sealing flange. The wave washer is positioned against an inner side of the pipe flange of the first pipe. The wave washer and the flanges of the first and second pipes are fastened based on the deflection of the annular member of the wave washer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: CRANE CHEMPHARMA RESISTOFLEX
    Inventors: Matthew Moose, Christopher Hock, Ron Moffitt, Landon Grindstaff, Dan Rink, Jesse Satterfield, David Yanik
  • Publication number: 20140259626
    Abstract: A mechanical fastener assembly is provided for joining two or more workpieces. The assembly includes a mechanical fastener and a slotted collar. The mechanical fastener has a shaft received within aligned bores of the workpieces, while the slotted collar surrounds at least a portion of the shaft and is also received within the aligned bores. Inserting and advancing the slotted collar into the aligned bores causes the slot of the slotted collar to at least partially close, thereby causing an inner surface of the slotted collar to engage at least a portion of the shaft of the mechanical fastener and an outer surface of the slotted collar to engage at least a portion of the aligned bores of the two workpieces. Such a mechanical fastener assembly can effectively transform a bolted joint into a stronger shear joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Damon E. Dilworth
  • Publication number: 20140265206
    Abstract: A number of variations of the invention may include a method including providing a front lower control arm attachment system including a sleeve locator stamping and at least one threaded sleeve extending there through, and attaching the front lower control arm attachment system to a vehicle engine cradle. A number of variations of the invention may include a front lower control arm attachment system including a sleeve locator stamping and at least one threaded sleeve extending through the sleeve locator stamping and secured thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
  • Publication number: 20140272511
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and a method for securely clamping and unclamping a battery in a battery receiving tray, the device comprising an escalatable hold down clamp for clamping the battery, an escalator means for lifting or lowering the clamp in screwed engagement with the escalatable hold down clamp, a hold down rod for fixedly engaging the hold down device onto the battery tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Darnell M. Bolden, Richard C. Lee
  • Patent number: 8832921
    Abstract: A two-piece locking nut assembly for securing a mantle to a head assembly of a cone crusher. The two-piece locking nut assembly includes an inner nut and an outer nut. The inner nut includes a set of axial bores that each receive a jackscrew. Once the locking nut assembly is in position on the head assembly, the series of jackscrews are tightened to exert a force on the mantle that is counteracted by forces through the inner nut and into the head to create a locking force between the locking nut assembly and the head assembly. The outer nut is turned along the inner nut to hold the locking nut assembly in place. Once the outer nut is moved into position, the jackscrews are removed such that the outer nut continues to apply the locking force between the mantle and the head through the locking nut assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter R. Marks, Edward L. Snow
  • Patent number: 8834057
    Abstract: A one-piece rigid connector allows a nominal construction wood member to slip axially while fixed at its distal end, to accommodate the naturally occurring shrinkage of lumber. The connector surrounds the wood member and attaches to a second wood member to secure the members together. The connector may be slightly larger radially than the first member to accommodate natural movement. In one embodiment, the connector is made of a light gauge sheet metal and attaches a vertical baluster to the horizontal lower deck rail of an elevated wood deck guard rail system. The connector secures the baluster horizontally, but allows the baluster to move vertically to accommodate expansion or contraction of the baluster after construction. The distal end of the baluster is secured using conventional wood screw attachment. The connector includes tabs on each side to allow fastening of the connector to the lower deck rail using conventional wood screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: BTI, Inc.
    Inventor: Vaughn P. Adams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8832920
    Abstract: A standoff adaptor for a threaded hollow wall anchor for mounting an item to a wall. A threaded member has a washer mounted thereon with a recess to receive and contact the head of a mounting anchor. The distal end of the threaded member is received into a standoff having at its opposite end a bolt threadedly mounted thereto for holding an item between the bolt and standoff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Accurate Manufactured Products Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Matt Goldberg
  • Patent number: 8832915
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting adjacent ends of first and second conduits including a frame assembly including a mounting point for mounting the end of the first conduit in a fixed position, a guide connected to the frame assembly and including first and second guide formations for receiving guide arms attached to the end of the second conduit and a moveable carrier mounted on the frame and including slots for engaging the guide arms. The carrier is moveable between a first position in which the slots align with the guide formations so that the guide arms can pass into the slots, and a second position in which the end of the second conduit is held against the end of the first conduit so as to allow a connection to be formed to secure the ends together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Verderg Connectors Limited
    Inventor: John White
  • Publication number: 20140251154
    Abstract: A popcorn popping assembly includes a popcorn popping kettle having a side wall extending from a bottom wall. The assembly includes a plurality of retainers. Each of the retainers includes a bottom wall extending between a pair of side walls. The side walls and the bottom wall define a cavity, and an aperture is formed in the bottom wall and defines an essentially closed shaped periphery. The assembly includes a plurality of studs, each configured to be inserted through a respective aperture of a respective retainer. A plurality of fasteners are each configured to be received within the cavity of a retainer and couple with a stud to secure the stud to the retainer. A temperature sensor may extend through at least one of the apertures. A stud may be configured to cooperate with the temperature sensor and hold the temperature sensor in a predetermined location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: GOLD MEDAL PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventors: Steven A. Snyder, John J. Ryan