Abstract: A truck hitch extension pole manipulator includes an elongated body with a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end generally encompasses a handle, and the proximal end generally includes a “keeper” module configured to interact with, for example, a locking pin on a truck hitch. Devices according to embodiments of the present general inventive concept enable users to remove and/or insert a locking pin for a truck hitch without requiring the user to enter the bed of the truck.

Abstract: A device, apparatus, and method for semiconductor transfer are provided. A transfer substrate is controlled to be moved to be above the target substrate. An infrared emitting portion emits infrared signals to position a semiconductor on a target substrate. After a second magnetic portion picks up the semiconductor from the target substrate, a controller outputs a first control current to a first electromagnetic portion to cause the first electromagnetic portion to generate an electromagnetic force, to control the second magnetic portion to adjust a position of the picked-up semiconductor relative to the welding position on the target substrate, where adjusting the position of the picked up semiconductor includes horizontal adjustment.

Abstract: A magnetic suture has a ferrule with a tapered region in which a knotted suture is provided and secured with an adhesive, and a straight region in which a magnet is provided. The magnetic suture can be manufactured and assembled by knotting a suture, threading it through the tapered portion, and applying adhesive. The structure and method provide a magnetic suture provide increased manufacturing tolerances and decreased failure rates, thereby reducing waste of components and time while increasing the manufacturing/assembly speed and reliability of magnetic suture assembly.

Abstract: A material handling tool having a support member, a magnet, a magnet control, a power source, and a magnet coupling. The support member may be made of two or more support member portions that allow for interchangeable support members of various lengths to be used in order to adjust the length of the material handling tool. The magnets used with the material handling tool may also be interchangeable in order to use magnets of different strengths. A magnet coupling may be used that provides angular and/or rotational movement of the magnet with respect to the support member. The magnet may be an electromagnet, which may have a magnetic field that can be adjusted. As such, a magnet control and/or power source may be used to adjust the magnetic field by turning the magnetic field on or off or adjusting the strength of the magnetic field.

Abstract: An assistance device for putting on a jacket includes an elongated bar and magnetic connection elements (such as magnets or metallic elements) positioned at each end of the elongated bar. The assistance device can be magnetically attached to corresponding magnetic connection elements at the shoulders of a jacket. As the jacket is placed over one shoulder, the other end of the assistance device (and attached portions of the jacket) will tend to be biased toward the other side of the user. This makes it easier for users to grab the other side of the jacket since it extends toward the arm not in the jacket sleeve reducing the distance that the user needs to move this arm behind their back to grab the jacket. This is especially valuable for users with restricted mobility who find it hard to put on jackets without the assistance device.

Abstract: A magnetic coupler having a housing defining a coupler plane, a magnet assembly positioned at least partially within the housing, the magnet assembly being movable relative to the coupler plane, and a release assembly coupled to the magnet assembly to selectively reposition the magnet assembly relative to the coupler plane based on the angular orientation of the release assembly.

Abstract: A level compensator system may be configured to receive containers of different heights and position them at the same level. The level compensator system can include engagement platforms for engaging with the containers. The engagement platforms can move between an engagement configuration for engaging with the containers and a conveyance configuration for conveying of the containers relative to the level compensator.

Abstract: A through-bore spool apparatus for use in deploying multiple spoolable media in a bore is disclosed. The through-bore spool apparatus comprises a first spool comprising a first spool axis and a first spoolable medium wound around the first spool axis, and a second spool comprising a second spool axis and a second spoolable medium wound around the second spool axis. The first and second spoolable media are de-spoolable simultaneously from the respective first and second spools during movement of the through-bore spool apparatus along a bore.

Abstract: A device for capturing and releasing magnetically susceptible particles includes a housing and a retraction mechanism. A permanent axially magnetized cylindrical magnet is coupled to the retraction mechanism and a distal end of the magnet extends from a distal end of the housing. The retraction mechanism is configured to position the distal end of the magnet at one of three different predetermined distances from the distal end of the housing: retracted, protracted and hyper-protracted. A sleeve is provided over the housing distal end and when the magnet is in the protracted position, magnetically susceptible particles are gathered, when in the retracted position, magnetically susceptible particles are released and the sleeve is ejected when the magnet is positioned at a point between the protracted and the hyper-protracted position.

Abstract: A grasp and release mechanism for carrying a load. The grasp and release mechanism includes a frame; a grasp mechanism attached to the frame and including plural permanent magnets configured to magnetically attach to a ferrous load; a release mechanism attached to the frame, wherein the release mechanism includes a drop plate; and an actuator mechanism attached to the frame and configured to apply a force F to the drop plate. The drop plate is configured to suddenly move relative to the frame to apply the force F to the load.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to one or more golf alignment rods that can be used as a multipurpose golf training aid, such as to teach proper golf club alignment and/or swing technique. Particularly, the alignment rod comprises a base defined by a first end and a second end. The alignment rod further includes a cap positioned at one end of the base. The cap comprises a magnet positioned on an interior surface. The magnet allows two or more alignment rods to be removably coupled together, such as when stored upright in a golf bag. In this way, movement of the alignment rods in the golfer's bag (e.g., when the cart is in motion) is minimized. In addition, the alignment rods are more easily accessible when needed by the golfer.

Abstract: A storing system includes: a traveling rail including a plurality of first rails extending in a first direction and a plurality of second rails extending in a second direction, the first rails and the second rails being disposed in a grid pattern on the same horizontal plane to form lengthwise and crosswise a plurality of opening areas each of which is surrounded by a pair of the first rails and a pair of the second rails; a vehicle including a traveling unit and a transfer unit; and a storage unit on which a FOUP is to be placed. The storage unit includes a plurality of rack units adjacent to each other. Each of the rack units includes a placement member on which the FOUP is to be placed, is provided such that the placement member is positioned directly below the corresponding opening area, and is detachable from the traveling rail.

Abstract: A magnet release device and of the type having a hinge barrel 11 or hinge post 13 affixed to the periphery of the magnet, using a rotating lever arm A 15, which is cam shaped with a leverage tool port 26.

Abstract: Various embodiments include a magnetic compensation device for a drone for triggering mines comprising: a flux-guiding element comprising a soft magnetic material in the shape of an open or closed ring; a receiving chamber for the drone for holding the drone; and an electric coil device coupled magnetically to the flux-guiding element so a predetermined magnetic flux can be coupled into the flux-guiding element using the coil device. The flux-guiding element and the receiving chamber are arranged in relation to one another so that a magnetic flux brought about by the drone can be closed through the ring shape of the flux-guiding element.

Abstract: A rail mounted transport robot with a lifting device, which is disposed in a recess of the transport robot such that it can be raised and lowered vertically and is suitable for receiving a load, wherein the lifting device is a powered loading platform that can be raised and lowered, with at least one longitudinal conveyor is disclosed.

Abstract: When at least one of a value a detected output current to a magnet and a magnet load defined by the following formula is equal to or larger than a threshold value predetermined for the value of the detected output current or a threshold value predetermined for the magnet load, a controller constituting a control device outputs, to a control circuit, a command to decrease voltage applied to the magnet from next attracting operation. Magnet load=excitation ratio×I×V . . . ; wherein excitation ratio: excitation time/(excitation time+non-excitation time); I: value of the output current; V: voltage applied to a lifting magnet.

Abstract: A magnetic set-up for use in a rotary encoder is disclosed. The set-up includes a permanent magnet arrangement including at least one permanent magnet, which is rotatable with respect to a rotation axis, and a soft magnetic sleeve encompassing the rotation axis and thus the permanent magnet arrangement for shielding against external magnetic fields. The at least one permanent magnet includes a through-hole, which extends along the rotation axis, so that the permanent magnet fully extends around the rotation axis.

Abstract: A storage system for storing product items includes a grid structure and a number of first storage bins configured to be stored in vertical stacks in the grid structure. Each first storage bin is configured to contain at least one product item. A vehicle is arranged to move horizontally at the top level of the grid structure, and further arranged to pick up, carry, and place the first storage bins at desired locations within the grid structure. The storage system further comprises a robot device comprising a movable arm with a picking mechanism in one end thereof. The robot device is configured to move a storage item between a first location and a second location by means of its picking mechanism. The first location is the location of a first storage bin stored in the storage grid.

Abstract: Systems and methods for fishing a metal object from a subterranean well include a fishing tool with housing, the housing being an elongated member having an internal bore. A first electromagnetic assembly is located within the internal bore of the housing and a second electromagnetic assembly is located at an outer diameter surface of the housing, the second electromagnetic assembly being moveable between a contracted position and an extended position where the second electromagnetic assembly extends outward from the housing. The first electromagnetic assembly is operable to generate a first magnetic force with an adjustable magnitude. The second electromagnetic assembly is operable to generate a second magnetic force with an adjustable magnitude, the first magnetic force and the second magnetic force having a same magnetic polarity.

Abstract: Footwear having a vamp, an insole, a midsole and an outsole, wherein a plurality of spaced apart magnets are located adjacent said outsole so that in use said magnets provide a gripping force between said footwear and a ferrous metallic surface upon which said footwear is placed.

Abstract: An untethered apparatus for measuring properties along a subterranean well. According to at least one embodiment, the untethered apparatus includes a housing, and one or more sensors configured to measure data along the subterranean well. The data includes one or more physical, chemical, geological or structural properties in the subterranean well. The untethered apparatus further includes a processor configured to control the one or more sensors measuring the data and to store the measured data, and a transmitter configured to transmit the measured data to a receiver arranged external to the subterranean well. Further, the untethered apparatus includes a controller configured to control the buoyancy or the drag of the untethered apparatus to control a position of the untethered apparatus in the subterranean well. The processor includes instructions defining measurement parameters for the one or more sensors of the untethered apparatus within the subterranean well.

Abstract: A rod for repelling sharks is disclosed. Magnets are connected to the rod along its length. If necessary, the rod may be extended. Additionally, one or more flotation devices may be connected to the rod to manipulate or adjust the buoyancy of the system, depending on the user's objective(s). The rod is connected to a fishing line once a fish is hooked and is in close proximity to the boat or other structure from which the fisherman is fishing. The weight of the rod and magnets cause the rod to slide down to the end of the fishing line, where the rod will come in contact with the hooked mouth of the fish. As the fish struggles during the fight, the rod creates a protective magnetic field around the fish to deter sharks from engaging the fish.

Abstract: A magnetic hand tool and method of assembly for manipulated conveyance over a surface for magnetic collection of ferrous articles, by which procedure a quick-release cap is used to release any and all collected ferrous material. This tool utilizes an alignment insert in a central opening of the magnet to coaxially align fastener guide holes through polar plates or protective covers on opposing planar sides of the magnet and a fastener guide hole in the insert, whereby insertion of the fastener through the guide holes laterally aligns the components of the assembly. The invention is the release device/cap, that is part of the assembly by means of a self-adhering or hinged cap with a lip, square, circular or other shape, to aid in the separation of ferrous material from the magnetic tool by pushing away the cap from the magnetic hand tool by holding the lip for that purpose. The divots make it that the release lever device/cap is held onto the magnetic hand tool assembly.

Abstract: A storage system and a load handling device for lifting and moving containers stacked in the storage system are described. The storage system includes a plurality of rails or tracks arranged in a grid pattern above the stacks of containers. The grid pattern can include a plurality of grid spaces and each stack is located within a footprint of only a single grid space. The load handling device is configured to move laterally on the rails or tracks above the stacks. The load-handling device includes a container-receiving space located above the rails or tracks in use and a lifting device arranged to lift a container from a stack into the container-receiving space. The load handling device has a footprint that, in use, occupies only a single grid space in the storage system.

Abstract: A robotic picking device for picking items from a containerised storage system is described. The items are stored in storage bins in stacks within a framework having a grid system disposed above the stacks of bins. Robotic picking devices are disposed on the grid, the devices acting to pick containers from the stacks of bins. The storage system is provided with at least one picking device for picking items from bins and depositing them directly in delivery containers DT.

Abstract: A fishing tool used for fishing a metal object from a subterranean well has a housing. The housing is an elongated member having an internal bore. A first electromagnetic assembly is located within the internal bore of the housing and a second electromagnetic assembly is located at an outer diameter surface of the housing. The second electromagnetic assembly moves between a contracted position and an extended position. The second electromagnetic assembly extends outward from the housing. The first electromagnetic assembly generates a first magnetic force with an adjustable magnitude. The second electromagnetic assembly generates a second magnetic force with an adjustable magnitude. The first magnetic force and the second magnetic force have the same magnetic polarity.

Abstract: An electromagnetic pickup and inspection tool/device is provided for locating, and the recovery of, metallic, and uniquely, nonmetallic objects, with a unique attachable gripping device, from confined spaces, such as engine compartments. Additional unique features include the use of LED illumination for dark areas and a WIFI micro video camera for enhanced search and inspection capabilities.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an automated storage system and remotely operated vehicle or robot for picking up storage bins from a storage system. The inventive vehicle or robot comprises a vehicle body, which vehicle body further comprises a first section for storing vehicle driving means and a second section for receiving any storage bin stored in a storage column within the storage system, a vehicle lifting device which is at least indirectly connected to the vehicle body in order to lift the storage bin into the second section, a first set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a first direction (X) within the storage system during use and a second set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a second direction (Y) in the storage system during use. The second direction (Y) is oriented perpendicular to the first direction (X).

Abstract: A quick change end effector system for use with a robot includes: a quick change end effector configured for application to a task to be completed by a robot, the quick change end effector further comprising an end effector magnet; and a robotic manipulator configured to lock to the end effector, the robotic manipulator further configured to use the end effector to complete the task, the robotic manipulator comprising a manipulator magnet, the manipulator magnet being configured to magnetically attract the end effector magnet, thereby locking the manipulator in a mechanically strong connection to the quick change end effector, wherein upon disengagement of the magnetic attraction locking the manipulator to the quick change end effector, the quick change end effector can be quickly removed from the manipulator.

Abstract: A drain cleaning apparatus includes a handle and a clog-catching member detachably connected to the handle. Wings, barbs or hooks project radially from the clog-catching member. The wings, barbs or hooks provide an angled projection that catches and holds a clump of debris in a drain pipe for pulling the clump out and unclogging the drain. Different end tools can be removably connected to a clog-catching member or to a smooth extension member to provide multifunctionality. The handle, clog-catching members, smooth extension members and tools can be connected together using a quick-connect connector, such as a snap fastener, a keyhole fastener or a side-release buckle, or a threaded connector. In addition to drain cleaning, the apparatus can be fitted with tools such as a magnet, grabber, light, camera and/or video for retrieval of objects and inspection of a space that is difficult to view directly.

Abstract: A socket may include a socket body comprising a fastener engagement aperture configured to receive at least a portion of a fastener and a forward sleeve affixed external to the socket body at a forward end of the socket body. The forward sleeve may be configured to rotate radially relative to the socket body, and translate axially relative to the socket body. The socket may also include a biasing member configured to urge the forward sleeve to translate axially relative to the socket body in a direction towards the forward end of the socket body. Further, the socket body may include an internal cavity, and the socket may include a magnet disposed within the internal cavity. The magnet may be configured to translate axially within the internal cavity relative to the socket body and be configured to magnetically attract the fastener to the forward end of the socket body.

Abstract: A work machine provided with a lifting magnet includes the lifting magnet, an arm that supports the lifting magnet, a boom that supports the arm, an upper turning body that supports the boom, an engine, a selective catalytic reduction system, and a controller that controls attraction and release by the lifting magnet.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an automated storage system and remotely operated vehicle or robot for picking up storage bins from a storage system. The inventive vehicle or robot comprises a vehicle body, which vehicle body further comprises a first section for storing vehicle driving means and a second section for receiving any storage bin stored in a storage column within the storage system, a vehicle lifting device which is at least indirectly connected to the vehicle body in order to lift the storage bin into the second section, a first set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a first direction (X) within the storage system during use and a second set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a second direction (Y) in the storage system during use. The second direction (Y) is oriented perpendicular to the first direction (X).

Abstract: A method of method of equipping a hammer handle with a magnetic, nail-head retainer for starting a nail includes steps such as follows. A tubular sleeve is produced from tube stock. The tubular sleeve extends between spaced open ends and has a hollow core characterized by an inside diameter. An unequipped hammer handle is bored with a bore hole which extends between an open end and closed end. A magnet is inserted in the bore hole. The tubular sleeve is inserted in the bore hole afterwards to trap the magnet in the bore hole.

Abstract: Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for installing a magnet into a cochlear implant.

Abstract: A device for pulling a boat onto a trailer from the water includes a curved magnet with rubber side grips attached to a proximal end of an elongated, retractable, rigid pole. The magnet grabs a metal hook on the end of a boat trailer. The pole allows attachment of the trailer hook to the boat U-bolt without the need for an individual to get into the water to attach the boat. The pole can be stored when not in use, using straps.

Abstract: A cover for magnetizing a shaft of a tissue-penetrating medical device is disclosed including a sleeve member having a hollow body to form a protective closure over the shaft of the tissue-penetrating medical device. The proximal end of the hollow body provides a receiving space for receiving the shaft of the tissue-penetrating medical device. One or more magnet is disposed on the sleeve member. A magnetic shield composed of one or more shielding materials associated with the cover that minimizes any effects to the clinical environment from magnetic fields generated within the cover. Medical devices and methods of magnetizing the shaft of a tissue-penetrating medical device using the cover are also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnet chuck includes a piston that is displaced inside a second sliding hole of a cylinder tube. One end surface of the piston abuts against a plate member when the piston reaches one displacement end point, whereas another end surface of the piston abuts against an entry member of a head cover when the piston reaches another displacement end point. At least one, and preferably both, of a first damper on the one end surface, and the second damper on the other end surface are disposed on the plate member.

Abstract: A tool for selectively engaging and disengaging one or more magnetic connectors to secure a panel. The tool includes a frame with one or more magnets. The magnets provide a magnetic flux to control the magnetic connectors. In use, the tool is positioned on a first side of the panel with the one or more connectors on the opposing second side. The magnetic flux from the one or more magnets controls the positioning of the connectors between engaged and disengaged positions.

Abstract: An attachment that incorporates a vacuum mechanism along with one or more grab arm assemblies. The vacuum mechanism and each grab arm assembly are configured to hold an object at the same time. In other embodiments, the object can be held solely by the vacuum mechanism or solely by the grab arms. In case of failure of the vacuum mechanism, for example a loss of suction or vacuum power or the vacuum is not properly centered on the object, the grab arm assembly acts as a back-up lifting mechanism to hold the object so that the object is not dropped. In addition, the grab arm assembly permits the attachment to hold the object in orientations, such as vertical, that are not possible using the vacuum mechanism by itself.

Abstract: What is disclosed is an object holder for retaining an object in a direct-to-object print system and a direct-to-object print system configured to use various embodiments of the object holder of the present invention. In one embodiment, the object holder has an open-sided container configured to slideably traverse a support member positioned parallel to a plane formed by at least one printhead of a direct-to-object print system. A plurality of relatively small ferrous metallic pieces of varying shapes and sizes are contained within the container. An object to be printed is placed in the container an at least partially embedded in the metal pieces. An electromagnet generates a magnetic field which causes the metallic pieces to clump together thereby physically retaining the object in the container while the object is being moved along the support member.

Abstract: A magnetic end effector utilizing a switchable Halbach array includes a pair of opposing members that can move towards and away from each other. The switchable Halbach arrays are located on or near the inner surface of the opposing members. A mechanical switching system is used to control the switchable Halbach arrays by moving one or more magnets that make up the switchable Halbach arrays. When manipulated in a certain way, the switchable Halbach arrays cause the opposing members to move towards each other, and when manipulate in a different manner, cause the opposing members to move away from each other.

Abstract: A magnetic tool holder includes a body having a bottom and side walls defining an elongate central channel, wherein the bottom defines a first plane and ends of the side walls define a second plane, wherein the body further includes side edges laterally extending from said side walls in the second plane, and outer side walls extending from the side edges back to the first plane; and at least one magnet in the elongate central channel, the at least one magnet having a tool securing surface positioned substantially coplanar with the second plane. The outer side walls configured in this manner greatly increase the magnetic flux in both planes or surfaces of the holder.

Abstract: A device for assisting a fisherman in retrieving stranded or snagged fishing lures that can be attached to the end of a fishing rod is described and taught. The device has a number of mechanisms of attachment to prevent the device from parting with the fishing rod during the retrieval process. On one end of the device is a component that has a cutting surface with a magnet located in a proximity thereto. The fishing lure is attracted to the magnet, adhering it to the device. The fishing line can then be cut using the cutting surface. Thus, the fishing lure is quickly freed without damaging the fishing tackle or causing bodily injury. The device can then be removed and the fishing lure retied to the fishing line.

Abstract: A cover for magnetizing a shaft of a tissue-penetrating medical device is disclosed including a sleeve member having a hollow body to form a protective closure over the shaft of the tissue-penetrating medical device. The proximal end of the hollow body provides a receiving space for receiving the shaft of the tissue-penetrating medical device. One or more magnet is disposed on the sleeve member. A magnetic shield composed of one or more shielding materials associated with the cover that minimizes any effects to the clinical environment from magnetic fields generated within the cover. Medical devices and methods of magnetizing the shaft of a tissue-penetrating medical device using the cover are also disclosed.

Abstract: An actuation device comprises a housing, and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed about the housing. The plurality of permanent magnets is configured to selectively transition between a first position and a second position. The plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength outside the housing than inside the housing in the first position, and wherein the plurality of permanent magnets is configured to provide a stronger magnetic field strength inside the housing than outside the housing in the second.

Abstract: There are procedures typically used in auto body shops to assist in matching a proposed paint mix with that on undamaged portions of the vehicle. A test panel is taped to a stick and arranged next to the panel to be matched at a couple of angles. The present procedures are unrepeatable and often utilize two individuals. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a wand has a test panel portion with embedded magnets. The test panel is attracted to the test panel portion via the magnets and the wand holds onto the vehicle panel also via the magnets. The lower side of the test panel portion that sits against the vehicle has at least two flat surfaces at different angles so that the wand can be placed on the surface of the vehicle, or other surface, to assess the paint match from the different angles.

Abstract: A novel, simple, inexpensive and universal device and method for manipulating a magnetic object with at least a portion thereof having a substantially prismatic shape with side surfaces and an end surface such as a fastener, bolt, nut, plug, screw, and the like is disclosed. One embodiment of the device includes a head assembly having a magnetic field. The head assembly includes a body and a magnetic pole piece. The body serves to support the magnetic pole piece and the magnetic pole piece is configured to contact no more than two side surfaces of the magnetic object. The magnetic pole piece is also constructed and arranged to concentrate and shape the magnetic field into the magnetic object. The head assembly is further configured to be spatially open opposite from the magnetic pole piece so as to receive and contact the magnetic object.

Abstract: A device for picking up objects comprising a magnetic head and handle, wherein a movable component is set between the magnetic head and the handle; a lens is movably set on the magnetic head; the lens comprises a front cover and a rear cover; two lamps and a magnetic block are set on the magnetic head, one of the lamps is fixed on the front of the magnetic head by a rotating shaft.