Abstract: In an injection molding system, a rack on which a peripheral device can be mounted includes a fixing unit for removably fixing to a machine stool of an injection molding machine and a moving unit for making the rack movable alone. Accordingly, maintenance of the injection molding machine can be performed satisfactorily and positioning work is also made easier so that the rack can be transported easily.

Abstract: A suture passer includes a handle, an elongated sleeve defining a distal end, an inner shaft slidably disposed within the elongated sleeve, and an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end of the inner shaft. The end effector assembly includes first and second arms, at least one which is movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for retaining a portion of a suture therebetween. The inner shaft and elongated sleeve are relatively movable between a first condition, wherein the first and second arms are disposed in the approximated position and the distal end of the elongated sleeve is exposed, a second condition, wherein the first and second arms are disposed in the approximated position and the distal end of the elongated sleeve is shielded, and a third condition, wherein the first and second arms are disposed in the spaced-apart position.

Abstract: The aspects of the disclosed embodiments relate to a micromanipulator arrangement that includes at least one drive stem, at least one movable element arranged on the drive stem to move along the drive stem wherein the drive stem being arranged to cause a change in a position of the movable element with respect to the drive stem; wherein an additional factor exists having an effect in the change of the position of the movable element and the micromanipulator arrangement further comprises means for compensating said additional factor such that said effect is diminished.

Abstract: The present invention relates to modular system for micro-nano manipulation of samples. The modular system of the present invention comprises changeable tool tips which may be provided in an array, and a tool body. Each changeable tool tip comprises an end effector connected to a base having mating structures. The tool body includes an arm having slits having dimensions and being disposed on the arm so as to detachably couple with the mating structures of the tool tip. The slits may include an opening with rounded corners for receiving the mating structures, and tapered side walls for frictionally fitting the mating structures. The present invention relates also to a connection system for connecting a micro-dimensional tool body to a changeable micro-dimensional tool tip and to a manipulation tool for use with changeable tool tips of the present invention.

Abstract: Devices and systems are provided that comprise a reaching apparatus removably coupled with a mobility device such that an individual can couple, uncouple, and/or use the reaching apparatus while concurrently using the mobility device for stability and/or mobility assistance. Related devices and systems further comprise a sheath coupled with the mobility device, the sheath configured to slidably receive at least part of the reaching apparatus therein. Furthermore, methods for manufacturing such devices and systems are provided, providing both retrofit options as well as methods for manufacturing specific mobility and/or stability devices comprising the reaching apparatus hereof.

Abstract: A delivery device 10 for a collapsible prosthetic heart valve includes a catheter assembly 16 including a shaft 26 around which a compartment 23 is defined, the compartment 23 being adapted to receive the valve in an assembled condition, and a retainer 30 including a pusher 32 and a holder 34 adapted to retain a stent portion 106 of the valve. The catheter assembly 16 also includes a distal sheath 24 adapted to selectively cover and uncover the compartment 23 and the valve, the distal sheath 24 extending around the shaft 26 at least when the distal sheath 24 covers the compartment 23. The pusher 32 includes one or more recesses 40 in a retention edge 33 thereof, each recess 40 being adapted to receive a junction 107 at an end of the stent portion 106 of the valve. The holder 34 includes one or more elongated ribs 50, each rib 50 being adapted to fit into a cell opening 108 of the stent portion 106 of the valve.

Abstract: A bone screw extension assembly for use in placing a connecting rod percutaneously into tissue of a patient comprises a multi-axial bone screw and a screw extension releasably coupled to yoke of the bone screw. The screw extension includes coaxially disposed outer sleeve and inner sleeves that are rotatable relative to each other. A screw engaging member projects radially from the distal end of the inner sleeve and is configured to engage an extension coupling surface on the outer sleeve upon relative rotation of the inner and outer sleeves. A securement member including cooperative surfaces is defined adjacent the distal end of the inner and outer sleeves that is operable upon relative rotation of the inner sleeve and outer sleeve to radially secure the sleeves together to thereby maintain the engagement of the screw engaging member and the bone screw.

Abstract: Systems and methods for gravity independent gripping and drilling are described. The gripping device can also comprise a drill or sampling devices for drilling and/or sampling in microgravity environments, or on vertical or inverted surfaces in environments where gravity is present. A robotic system can be connected with the gripping and drilling devices via an ankle interface adapted to distribute the forces realized from the robotic system.

Abstract: A suture apparatus having a housing, actuator and capture rod, the actuator being engaged to the capture rod to form an actuator-capture rod assembly, an elongated cannula shaft having a lumen that extends through the shaft, and capture rod retraction means, the housing including an internal region that is configured to receive and support the capture rod retraction means, actuator proximal end and actuator rod distal end therein, wherein said capture rod retraction means is in communication with said actuator. The actuator-capture rod assembly and capture rod retraction means being positioned and configured to transition from a retracted position to an extended position when an actuation force is applied to the actuator and return the retracted position by the retraction means when the actuation force is released.

Abstract: A toy apparatus includes a base piece and a plurality of elongated members. The base piece is configured to slide on a surface. Each elongated member has a first end and a second end, with the elongated members being movably coupled to the base piece near the first ends. A tether is coupled to the first ends of the elongated members, and tension applied to the tether moves the elongated members from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the second ends of the elongated members are expanded apart from each other. In the second position, the second ends of the elongated members are contracted toward each other and are capable of surrounding a target piece.

Abstract: A clip apparatus for ligature of living tissue is provided. The clip apparatus includes a clip that can be opened and closed multiple times prior to locking in a closed position on the tissue.

Abstract: A robot gripping device (60) where each finger part has a finger part body (1) which is comprised of a plate-shaped elastic member, a first anti-slip part (2) which is provided at an inside of a front end side of the finger part body, and a reinforcing member (20) which is arranged along an outer surface of the finger part body, is connected to the front end of the finger part body, and is higher in rigidity than the finger part body, the reinforcing member having a first rotary joint (4) which makes the reinforcing member pivot about a first axis of rotation which is vertical to a longitudinal direction of the finger part body, and the robot gripping device having a drive part (62) which makes a base end of the finger part body move along the center of grip to make the finger part open and close.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing a string of decorative lighting, such as Christmas or party lights, in an elevated location without requiring the use of a ladder. The apparatus allows the string of lights to be hung simultaneously with a hanging bracket or clip suitable for hanging the lights from a gutter or shingles. A clamp, actuated between an open and closed position, securely holds the light string by a socket rather than the wire string, while the light string is being hung. The clamp preferably includes prongs oriented in different directions, one direction adapted for hanging a string of lights with a hook-type hanging bracket and the other direction adapted for use with a clip-type hanger. A protective body covers the bulb while the light string is being hung.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly including a disposable cleaning implement having a cleaning element mounted to a fitment having an elongated post. The cleaning assembly includes an elongated maneuvering wand having a handle portion and a distal implement attachment end thereof. A gripping mechanism is coupled to the wand attachment end, and is configured to releasably grip the fitment post to mount the cleaning implement. The gripping mechanism and the maneuvering wand cooperate to substantially limited pivotal movement of a longitudinal axis of the fitment post, relative a longitudinal axis of the gripping mechanism to not more than about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees when the fitment post is subjected to forces radial to the longitudinal axis of the fitment post.

Abstract: An apparatus for the micromanipulation of micro-sized objects includes a micromanipulation device in the form of a hollow frame having a base, resiliently deflectable arms projecting from the base and defining a gap for receiving a micro-sized object, and a saddle connected to the tips of the arms between the base and the tips. A force generating device applies a force to the saddle to deflect the tips inwards to close the gap about the micro-sized object. A fixture is provided for supporting the micromanipulation device and force generating device. The force generating device can be a micrometer. The micromanipulation device is configured for production using micro-fabrication techniques. The micromanipulation device may include a piercing element for piercing an object positioned between the arms of the device, and may further include a notch aligned with the piercing element for retaining the object.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for engaging an article. The apparatus has a longitudinal centerline, a disengaged configuration and an activated configuration. The apparatus further includes a base portion, first and second engaging arm portions joined to the base portion, first and second moveable portion operatively associated with the first and second engaging arm portions, respectively, and one or more engaging arm bands extending between the first and second moveable portions and the first and second arm portions, wherein at least one of the arm bands bends away from the longitudinal centerline of the engaging arm when the apparatus is changed from the disengaged configuration to the activated configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus for extracting an object from a cavity is disclosed. The apparatus includes a collet surrounded by a sleeve, which both extend into the cavity. Fingers of the collar of the collet are contracted to grasp the object by the advancement of the collet into the sleeve. The collet is advanced by rotating a nut, which is located outside of the cavity and engages with a threaded portion of the shaft of the collet. The shaft includes a groove extending through the threaded portion of the shaft. This groove engages with a protrusion extending from a handle to prevent the collet from rotating during rotation of the nut and advancement of the collet. The handle is located outside of the cavity and is held during the extraction.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for stringing aerial cables through tower structures using aircraft without requirement that a person be present on the tower while the aircraft is performing the stringing operation are described. An elongated needle-like threading member to which a sock line is attached and having spaced-apart projections emanating therefrom at different directions around the threading member, is directed by the aircraft pilot through a block having a pulley suspended by an insulator or other tower structure, the projections in cooperation with the block preventing the threading member from being pulled rearwardly under tension from the sock line. A device adapted for grabbing and releasing the threading member and attached to an aircraft haul line, permits the threading member to be hauled forward through the block once the aircraft flies to the other side of the tower and reattaches the grabbing device to the threading member.

Abstract: A hybrid nozzle that includes the use of both vacuum and mechanical gripping of components in a hybrid arrangement. It can easily be scaled down to the smallest foreseeable size of common components. The hybrid nozzle is made from commonly available material using a precision micro-machining process. There are no linkages or moving pistons to complicate the assembly and introduce tolerance buildup and wear concerns. The objective of this invention is to increase both throughput and yield in pick and place assembly operations at automated factories.

Abstract: One or more embodiments of a flexible manipulator tools are provided. The flexible manipulator tool can include a distal end movable in at least one manipulation plane with respect to a proximal end. The flexible manipulator tool can also include at least two cheeks extending side by side to and spaced apart from each other.

Abstract: A method of using a tooling mandrel for assembling a disk drive is described. The method includes providing a head stack assembly including a shaft with an engagement feature, and providing the tooling mandrel including two tooling fingers, one of which is movable. The movable tooling finger is moved between a first configuration in which respective distal tips of the tooling fingers are insertable into and removable from the engagement feature and a second configuration in which the distal tips engage the engagement feature. The tooling mandrel further includes a tooling finger spreader coupled to the movable tooling finger to selectively move the movable tooling finger between the first and second configurations. The method further includes locating the distal tips at least partially within the engagement feature with the tooling fingers in the first configuration, and moving the movable tooling finger to the second configuration to engage the shaft.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly including a disposable cleaning implement having a cleaning element mounted to a fitment having an elongated post. The cleaning assembly includes an elongated maneuvering wand having a handle portion and a distal implement attachment end thereof. A gripping mechanism is coupled to the wand attachment end, and is configured to releasably grip the fitment post to mount the cleaning implement. The gripping mechanism and the maneuvering wand cooperate to substantially limited pivotal movement of a longitudinal axis of the fitment post, relative a longitudinal axis of the gripping mechanism to not more than about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees when the fitment post is subjected to forces radial to the longitudinal axis of the fitment post.

Abstract: A grasping device for grasping a lens runner system is disclosed. The grasping device includes a support having a connecting rod, four claws arranged around the connecting rod, a driving sleeve, and an actuator. Each claw includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end and tapers from the second end to the first end. The first end is elastically connected to the connection rod. Each two adjacent claws define a gap for receiving the lens runner system. The driving sleeve sleeves into the claws from the first end. The actuator is supported by the support and configured for driving the driving sleeve to move relative to the second end.

Abstract: The invention concerns a gripper device for gripping solid or hollow items, objects or bodies, which includes a supporting body (11, 11a) holding a plurality of gripper modules (12, 12a) positioned around the geometric axis of the body, parallel and spaced at an angle. Each module includes a flexible prehensible arch-shaped element (21, 21a) having an extrados in line with a radial slot (18, 18a) along one side of the housing and engaged by an actuator piston. All the prehensile elements are movable between a decontracted rest condition, in which their extradossis are retracted in the respective slots (18, 18a), and a compressed/contracted work condition, in which their extradossis protrude from the radial slots (18, 18a) to engage from time to time the item, object or casing to be gripped.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for stringing aerial cables through tower structures using aircraft without requirement that a person be present on the tower while the aircraft is performing the stringing operation are described. An elongated needle-like threading member to which a sock line is attached and having spaced-apart projections emanating therefrom at different directions around the threading member, is directed by the aircraft pilot through a block having a pulley suspended an insulator of other tower structure, the projections in cooperation with a frame member attached to the block and facing toward the incoming threading member, preventing threading member from being pulled rearwardly under tension from the sock line.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for gripping a CD from the top of a stack for automated processing, by putting actuated deflectable fingers in the central opening of the CD. Axial displacement is used to force the fingers radially outward. The axial displacement is advantageously provided by abutting a relatively axially displaceable part of the gripper against a fixed object and continue axial displacement of the gripper. Use is made of an arrangement similar to the actuating mechanism of a ball-point to extend and retract the writing tip or the mechanical arrangement used in electrical micro switches operated by a push button (e.g. the Short Stroke Key Switches of ITT Industries). This arrangement is combined with an electrical switch to detect the extended or retracted position of the fingers to provide a corresponding electrical signal to a control means.

Abstract: An easy operated pick up tool comprises a body which includes a first tube member, an extending tube, and a second tube member; an actuating post fitted into the first tube member, between the actuating post and the first tube member being defined a first resilient element, wherein the actuating post including a holder and a string inserted into a front end of the second tube member to connect with an expandable paw; a cell set received in the holder; a bulb disposed in the second tube member and including a first leg connected with a first electrode of the cell set; a controlling assembly including a receiving cylinder screwed with the holder to receive a stem for pushing an electricity conducting shaft which contacts with a second electrode of the cell set; a magnetic attracting member having an insulation sleeve fitted on the body and including a magnet loop.

Abstract: A leaf grapple for grabbing and lifting a pile of leaves or other loose debris is disclosed. The leaf grapple includes a basket at the end of a handle. The basket has multiple sections, each section being movably attached at the top to a first spider and, some distance away from the top, pivotably attached to a second spider. An actuating rod is assembled in the handle. The first spider is attached to the end of the actuating rod; the second spider is attached to the end of the handle. Pushing on the handle forces the first spider downward, which forces the top portions of the grapple sections downward. The grapple sections pivot about the lower ends of the second spider, which causes the grapple sections to open. Pulling up on the actuating rod forces the grapple sections to close.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection system for use with an active or passive protection device that minimizes weight. In accordance with the present invention, a single stem connection system for use with an active protection device includes a single bent cable that is attached to the single cable terminal of the active protection device. A stem tube is fitted over a portion of the bent cable giving the appearance and benefits of a single stem. However, a portion of the bent cable is left separated thereby automatically forming a clip-in point for the entire active protection device. Unlike conventional single stem connection systems, the single stem system in accordance with the present invention only requires coupling the cable to the cable terminal thereby reducing manufacturing cost and minimizing overall weight. Alternatively, a similar connection system can be used with a passive protection device to provide many of the same benefits.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection system for use with an active or passive protection device that minimizes weight. In accordance with the present invention, a single stem connection system for use with an active protection device includes a single bent cable that is attached to the single cable terminal of the active protection device. A stem tube is fitted over a portion of the bent cable giving the appearance and benefits of a single stem. However, a portion of the bent cable is left separated thereby automatically forming a clip-in point for the entire active protection device. Unlike conventional single stem connection systems, the single stem system in accordance with the present invention only requires coupling the cable to the cable terminal thereby reducing manufacturing cost and minimizing overall weight. Alternatively, a similar connection system can be used with a passive protection device to provide many of the same benefits.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly including a disposable cleaning implement having a cleaning element mounted to a fitment having an elongated post. The cleaning assembly includes an elongated maneuvering wand having a handle portion and a distal implement attachment end thereof. A gripping mechanism is coupled to the wand attachment end, and is configured to releasably grip the fitment post to mount the cleaning implement. The gripping mechanism and the maneuvering wand cooperate to substantially limited pivotal movement of a longitudinal axis of the fitment post, relative a longitudinal axis of the gripping mechanism to not more than about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees when the fitment post is subjected to forces radial to the longitudinal axis of the fitment post.

Abstract: A remote controlled pick-up device adapted for use by individuals from elevated positions, examples of which include, e.g., a hunter position in a tree stand, a worker on a scaffold or roof, or a police officer or fireman retrieving an object from a storm drain. The device is operated remotely from any desired elevation, enabling the operator to grip or otherwise manipulate objects or articles that are located at a different (e.g., lower) position in order to retrieve or otherwise reposition them as so desired.

Abstract: A device for removing animal excrement from a surface. The device has a cylindrical member, and a hollow outer member. The cylindrical member acts as a handle, one end of which terminates in a collar to which is attached a plurality of outwardly-biased gripping members. The hollow outer member is adapted to move over a tubular portion of the handle from a first position in which the gripping members are enclosed within the outer member to a second position in which the gripping members are exposed to enable them to deploy for use. A compression spring incorporated in the tubular portion of the handle is adapted to bear on the outer member to urge the outer member from the position at which the gripping members are exposed to that at which they are enclosed within the outer member.

Abstract: A micro actuator including a translationally driving section having a moving portion which is incorporated in a case and moves translationally, and a displacement enlarging member having one end portion connected to the moving portion of the translationally driving section and another end portion connected to the case, wherein as the one end portion is pulled on the basis of the translational movement, the amount of displacement of its distal end is enlarged.

Abstract: An illuminable picker comprises a cylindrical member including cells provided therein, a control member disposed at the rear end of the cylindrical member and including a bolt for fitting a spring thereon, as the bolt is pressed to move, it may contact with the electrode output end of the cells, a sleeve mounted at the front end of the cylindrical member for confining the cells and including a spring fitted thereon and a string fixed at the front end thereof, the string including an expandable claw attached at the front end thereof, a tube secured at the front end of the sleeve for inserting the string and positioning the claw, a bulb affixed on the tube and including anode and cathode output wires, the anode output wire fixed on the tube, while the cathode output wire passing through the sleeve and contacting with the cathode output end of the cells, thereby simultaneously obtaining the picking and illumining purpose.

Abstract: A pneumatically controlled finger gripper having a supporting body (11) with a proximal and a distal end, a pneumatic control piston (12) guided and moving alternatively in the body, a compression disk (13) connected to, and moving axially with, the piston relatively at the distal end of the supporting body, and a flexible gripper element (14) assembled between the compression disk (13) and the distal end of the supporting body (11) and moving between a contracted and expanded position in response to the movements of the control piston with the compression disk between an inactive and active position.

Abstract: A reactor cartridge includes a plurality of spaced-apart monoliths, formed along a tube or other mandrel. Each monolith is formed of a pair of flat and corrugated metal strips, spirally wound around the tube. These strips could be made of solid or screen material. The corrugations are skewed, such that the monolith imparts a swirl to gases flowing through it. The corrugations of the strips in adjacent monoliths are oriented differently, so that successive monoliths impart different swirls to the gases, so as to promote mixing of gases and better heat transfer from the exterior to the interior of the cartridge. An insertion and removal tool simplifies the procedure for stacking such cartridges in a long pipe, or for removing cartridges from the pipe. The all-metal construction facilitates heat transfer through the entire reactor, and avoids the problems associated with packed ceramic beds.

Abstract: An illuminable picker comprises a cylindrical member including cells provided therein, a control member disposed at the rear end of the cylindrical member and including a bolt for fitting a spring thereon, as the bolt is pressed to move, it may contact with the electrode output end of the cells, a sleeve mounted at the front end of the cylindrical member for confining the cells and including a spring fitted thereon and a string fixed at the front end thereof, the string including an expandable claw attached at the front end thereof, a tube secured at the front end of the sleeve for inserting the string and positioning the claw, a bulb affixed on the tube and including anode and cathode output wires, the anode output wire fixed on the tube, while the cathode output wire passing through the sleeve and contacting with the cathode output end of the cells, thereby simultaneously obtaining the picking and illumining purpose.

Abstract: Apparatus and processes are disclosed that provide a microfabricated microtool having a mechanically actuated manipulating mechanism. The microtool comprises a tweezer having flexible arms, and an actuating mechanism. A biological, electrical, or mechanical component is grasped, cut, sensed, or measured by the flexible arms. The actuating mechanism requires no electric power and is achieved by the reciprocating motion of a smooth, rigid microstructure applied against the flexible arms of the microtool. In certain implementations, actuator motion is controlled distally by a tethered cable. A process is also disclosed for producing a microtool, and in particular, by micropatterning. Photolithography may be used to form micro-molds that pattern the microtool or components of the microtool. In certain implementations, the tweezer and actuating mechanism are produced fully assembled. In other implementations, the tweezer and actuating mechanism are produced separately and assembled together.

Abstract: This invention relates to a pneumatically controlled finger gripper that has a supporting body (111) forming a chamber. A fixed axial rod (119) is secured to a proximal part of the body, extending in the chamber and emerging from a distal part of the body. A compression disk (113) is connected to the fixed rod. A pneumatic control piston (112) is guided along the axial rod and moves in the chamber (115) with respect to the compression disk (113) between an inactive position, at a distance from the compression disk, and a forward active position, near the compression disk. A flexible gripper element (114) is mounted between the compression disk (113) and control piston (112). The flexible gripper element moves between a contracted position and an expanded position in response to the movements ofthe control piston between the inactive and active positions of the compression disk.

Abstract: A microgripper device includes a microactuator member and a microgripper member. The microactuator member includes an actuating portion adapted to output a driving force to the microgripper member. The microgripper member includes a main flame, an engaging portion, a pair of lateral shifting portions and a gripping portion. The main frame of the microgripper member mounts the microactuator member therein, and the engaging portion of the microgripper member connects to the actuating portion of the microactuating member. Each of the lateral shifting portions includes three connection portions linking the main frame, the engaging portion and the gripping respectively. The gripping portion of the microgripper member includes a pair of resilient arms and a pair of pivot portions. Each of the pivot portions connects to a first end of the corresponding resilient arm so that the second ends of the resilient arms are able to generate a gripping movement.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly including a disposable cleaning implement having a cleaning element mounted to a fitment having an elongated post. The cleaning assembly includes an elongated maneuvering wand having a handle portion and a distal implement attachment end thereof. A gripping mechanism is coupled to the wand attachment end, and is configured to releasably grip the fitment post to mount the cleaning implement. The gripping mechanism and the maneuvering wand cooperate to substantially limited pivotal movement of a longitudinal axis of the fitment post, relative a longitudinal axis of the gripping mechanism to not more than about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees when the fitment post is subjected to forces radial to the longitudinal axis of the fitment post.

Abstract: An automatic device for handling objects comprises gripper blades attached to a guide, an actuator connected to an external connection transporting the device, and a switching mechanism. The switching mechanism alternately changes the state of the pickup device between object-engaging and object-disengaging states each time the guide reaches an end-of-travel position at an object holder. A single external axial movement is performed for both transporting the pickup device and actuating the switch and the grippers. The pickup device may include radially-gliding pierced grippers crossed by curved arms attached to the axially moving actuator. The described devices and methods may be used in object-handling robots, in particular for CD/DVD handling applications.

Abstract: A gripping apparatus is provided that enables users to insert and remove optically read disks without touching them by hand. The apparatus comprises a hollow frame and a spring-loaded plunger with flexible hooks. When the plunger is pushed down out of the locked position, protrusions on the hooks are forced out of convex indentations and against the inner sides of the frame, compressing the hooks. The apparatus can then be inserted through the central hole in a disk. The user then releases the plunger, which is forced upward by a compressed spring so that the protrusions on the hooks fit back into the indentations. The hooks then expand outward so that the disk is held securely and may be removed from its storage case or a player. Reversing this operation allows a user to insert a disk into a storage case or player.

Abstract: A connector tool for holding a cable connector, such as a fiber optic or similar connector, for coupling and/or decoupling the connector into or from a connector port in an area having a high density of connector ports. The connector tool comprises a sleeve and a gripper, wherein the gripper has fingers that form a slot for engaging the connector. The fingers are drawn into the sleeve to form a compartment in interlocking engagement with the connector. In one embodiment, the connector tool can handle a SC fiber optic cable connector. In another embodiment, the connector tool can handle an electrical cable connector. The tool also may have a slot for receiving the cable connected to the connector. The method for holding a cable connector using the tool during coupling and decoupling of the connector into or from a connector port is also shown.

Abstract: Electric tweezers (1) include a case (60) for accommodating a motor (52), a finger (13) for releasing and holding an object, one end portion of which is connected and fixed to the case (60), and the other end portion (13g) of which enlarges a quantity of opening and closing of a tip portion according to a quantity of translational displacement of reciprocation, a switch (57) for rotating and stopping the motor (52), and a transformation mechanism (30) accommodated in the case (60), connected to a shaft (52a) of the motor (52), and transforming a rotation in one direction of the motor (52) into a quantity of translational displacement in a predetermined reciprocating direction with respect to the other end portion (13g) of the finger (13).

Abstract: The present invention may be used for debris collection and vegetation removal. An interior shaft may be slidably disposed in an exterior tubular shaft. The interior shaft may protrude out of a lower end of the exterior tubular shaft and a prong assembly may have a plurality of prongs oriented in a subtending direction may be attached at a lower end of the interior shaft. A tubular housing may be attached at the lower end of the exterior tubular shaft in a position to receive the plurality of prongs when the interior shaft may be pulled upwardly relative to the exterior tubular shaft.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dual stem active camming device including a plurality of compression springs independently coupled to a plurality of cam lobes. The compression springs are positioned between the trigger and the clip-in point of the cam to protect the springs from damage and allow the trigger to compress the springs upon retraction. A flexible stem tube is positioned over the portion of the dual stem between the trigger and the cable terminals. The flexible stem tube shields the trigger wires from debris and abrasion. A rigid yoke is also positioned over the dual stem between the stem tube and cable terminals. The rigid yoke prevents uneven lateral bending on the head of the camming device that may otherwise cause the device to pull out of a placement. The cable terminals are positioned between the outer cam lobes and on either side of the inner cam lobe.

Abstract: A hand actuated pick-up tool including an elongated hollow shaft having distal and proximal ends; first and second flexible grip members at the distal end of the hollow shaft for grasping an object; a center strap extending from the grip members interiorly within the shaft; and a handle located on the proximal end of the shaft. The handle includes a trigger mechanism for drawing the center strap rearward in order to actuate the grip members, where the trigger device includes a channel for receiving and releasably retaining the center strap. The center strap is detachable from the trigger mechanism, and the handle includes an aperture allowing access to the trigger device channel and the center strap, and enabling the center strap to be inserted and withdrawn through the aperture, permitting replacement of the center strap.

Abstract: Three congruent prongs (16A, 16B, 16C) mounted on a shaft tube (12), converges simultaneously when an operating sleeve (14) moves forward. This action, along with their notches and shape provides a firm grip for holding and starting nuts and bolts. These prongs, made out of 304 grade stailess steel bands, provide good spring-like flexibility and rigidity. The concave sides of the prongs mate with the outside surface of the shaft tube (12) every time the operating sleeve (14) is moved forward. These physical features provide consistent alignment of the prongs every time the tool is used. With rubber sealant (16D) coated on the inside surface of the prongs, the nut and bolt starter gives a firm grip to hold and start a wide variety of shapes and sizes of screws, nuts and bolts. Additional uses of this tool are done with the prop rod (20) supplementing the prongs.