For Latch Or Retainer Patents (Class 403/20)
  • Patent number: 10968744
    Abstract: A retaining collar is disclosed for a bayonet mount comprising a rotor disc having a male mounting member defining a pair of apertures and an auxiliary annular wheel defining a plurality of mounting slots. The retaining collar comprises a ring-shaped body and a pair of retention pins. The ring-shaped body has a pair of circumferential end portions separated by a circumferential gap, and an arcuate radial outer surface extending circumferentially between the end portions. The body is dimensioned so that the radial outer surface frictionally engages a radial inner surface of a cylindrical male mounting member in the bayonet mount. The pair of retention pins each extend radially outward from one of the circumferential end portions. Each of the retention pins are dimensioned to extend radially outward from the body through one of said apertures and one of said mounting slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce Corporation
    Inventors: Brandon R. Snyder, Michael R. Whitten, James E. Sellhorn, Bradford John Riehle
  • Patent number: 10870143
    Abstract: A connection structure includes: a first wire; a second wire having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the first wire; a connection member configured to connect the first wire and the second wire, wherein a distal end portion of the first wire is inserted from an opening portion at one end of the connection member to be crimped, and a proximal end portion of the second wire is inserted from an opening portion at another end of the connection member to be crimped, the opening portion at the other end having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the opening portion at the one end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayoshi Iwanami, Yuta Muyari
  • Patent number: 10731691
    Abstract: A connection pin comprises an elongated neck and a base at an end of the neck. The base may include a first portion, a second portion between the first portion and the neck, and a lip between the first portion and the second portion. A distance between the lip and the neck may be less than a radius of the neck. The connection pin may further comprises at least one spring-loaded element along the neck for maintaining the connection pin in a temporary fixed position relative to another element in which the neck is constructed for insertion and an actuator that retracts the at least one spring-loaded element when in a pressed position. An end of the actuator does not exceed a surface of the base when the actuator is in an unpressed position. An opening in the base may be threaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: BOSE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Lippitt
  • Patent number: 10724559
    Abstract: A pin assembly component for earth working equipment comprises a body including at least one opening into which a pin is received to couple the pin assembly component to at least one other part. A hole extends transverse to and communicating with the opening. A hammerless lock is secured in the hole and is adjustable to alternatively retain the pin in the opening and release the pin to permit installation and removal of the pin from the opening. The lock is retained to the body in the hole when holding the pin and when releasing the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: ESCO GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Paul Heaphy, Michael Dare, Junbo Qian
  • Patent number: 10714915
    Abstract: A vertical cable manager includes a base frame and a door. The base frame has upper and lower support legs and upper and lower crossbars between the support legs. The door has retractable hinge pins at corners of the door. The crossbars have hinge rod receptacles to receive respective hinge pins and elastic latch members having a flexible arm and a catch portion. The catch portions secure the hinge pins in the hinge rod receptacles with the door closed and are deflectable through elastic deformation of the flexible arm to allow travel of the hinge pins through the hinge rod receptacles and past the catch portions when the door is moved from an open to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Joshua A. Valenti, Kevin M. Zumbek, Jason O'Young, Robert L. Fritz, Nathan A. Gleghorn
  • Patent number: 10378590
    Abstract: A modular driveline yoke assembly for use in a motor vehicle having separate yoke and flange portions that directly abut each other. The flange portion having dowels that extend into recesses within the yoke portion, and bolts that extend through both portions to secure the two together. The assembly is configured such that various yoke portions and various flange portions will all be compatible to fit together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Inventors: James Edward Reel, Jr., Jayson Miles
  • Publication number: 20150063897
    Abstract: A system is provided for locking and/or unlocking an object, such as a power battery of a drive engine of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle, under a structure such as a chassis of the vehicle, including a plurality of locks ensuring the attachment of the object under the structure. The locks are secured to the object and/or structure and each include a hook configured for drawing the object to the structure by compressing an elastically deformable member inserted between the object and the structure and for supporting the object relative to the structure at the end of the approximation travel, as well as a transmission device driving the hook during the drawing travel and configured such as to be actuated by an actuation tool that is separate from the structure and the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Jacques Poillot, Gilles Mulato, Stephane Trentin, Bruno Escande
  • Publication number: 20140321900
    Abstract: Assembly for protecting a product against theft, includes a first part having a spike intended to pass through the product, and a second part provided in a first zone with an orifice for inserting the spike and locking elements to prevent the spike from being withdrawn after insertion. The second part includes at least one second zone for inserting the spike in a plurality of possible positions, the two parts are assembled with one another and kept in two possible modes of assembly. In a first protection mode, the spike is inserted into the orifice of the second part and the locking elements are activated so that a user cannot separate them without a tool; in a second temporary-assembly mode, the spike is inserted into the second zone and held therein in a temporary-assembly position such that a user can separate the two parts from one another without a tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: EXAQTWORLD
    Inventor: Alain Favier
  • Publication number: 20140119810
    Abstract: A steering wheel shaft retention mechanism assembly includes a steering shaft having a mounting groove, a retention mechanism positioned in the mounting groove and having at least one resilient locking projection, and a steering wheel hub having an opening configured to receive a portion of the steering shaft. One section of the opening is configured to receive the at least one locking projection to prevent removal of the steering wheel hub from the shaft. A service tool includes a body portion to be gripped by a user and an engaging portion having at least one projection extending from the body portion, the at least one projection configured to engage the at least one locking projection such that the at least one locking projection is moved to an unlocked position and the steering wheel hub is movable relative to the steering shaft for removal from the steering shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: Melvin Lee Tinnin, Michael W. Clark
  • Publication number: 20130315652
    Abstract: A clamp (1) for interconnecting two plate-like members (16, 17) so as to make them together form a substantially rectangular corner has two legs (2, 3) resiliently connected to each other and making an angle being less than 90° with each other in a rest state of the clamp. Each leg has at an outer end thereof remote to a transition (4) to the other leg a member (7, 8) configured to engage a part of the said plate-like member in an interconnecting state of the clamp. At least one of said legs is provided with an opening designed to receive an end of an elongated tool member in said interconnecting state of the clamp for enabling removal of said clamp in said interconnecting state from said plate-like members by influencing that leg in the direction apart from the other leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: NEFAB AB
    Inventor: Pontus Eding
  • Publication number: 20130283587
    Abstract: The present invention relates to furniture systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to office furniture systems using modular components configured to disguise the connections between components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: OFS Brands Inc.
    Inventors: Donn B. Mehringer, Rick L. Rademacher, Tommy K. Owens, Doug Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20130216297
    Abstract: A fastening apparatus for fastening to a spherical stud affixed to a workpiece, the fastening apparatus removable from the stud with an unlatching tool, and the fastening apparatus comprises: an inner sleeve, which can splay out in the radial direction and can be slid over the stud; an outer sleeve axially slidable over the inner sleeve into a fastening position; and a latching device for releasably joining the outer sleeve to the inner sleeve in the fastening position, the latching device including a latching tongue which engages a latching shoulder in the fastening position, thus forming a latched connection; and wherein the fastening apparatus further comprises a tool access for insertion of the unlatching tool operable to disengage the latching tongue from the latching shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: NEWFREY LLC
    Inventor: NEWFREY LLC
  • Patent number: 8262308
    Abstract: A coupling structure for coupling first and second halves into a casing, includes a first coupling element projecting outward from an inner surface of the first casing half and formed with a detachment hole and a second coupling element projecting outward from an inner surface of the second casing half and for engaging with the first coupling element. Insertion of a detachment tool via an opening in the casing and the detachment hole to abut against the second coupling element results in inward bending of the second coupling element with respect to the first coupling element, thereby disengaging the second coupling element from the first coupling element, hence the first casing half disengages from the second casing half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Gemtek Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Yu Peng
  • Publication number: 20120121319
    Abstract: A sealed pivot assembly with lock/unlocking functionality has an axis member having a first end member and a second end member, a plurality of threaded openings formed in both the first and second end member. A pair of locking sleeves is provided, wherein one of the pair of locking sleeves is positioned over each of the first end and second end of the axis member. A pair of expansion sleeves is provided, wherein one of the pair of expansion sleeves is positioned over each of the pair of locking sleeves. A plurality of locking devices is provided, wherein at least two locking devices are inserted into the openings formed in each end of the axis member, the locking devices engaging the pair of expansion sleeves causing the expansion sleeves to expand to secure the axis member in the mounting lugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Roger Svensson
  • Patent number: 8000094
    Abstract: A rotation module includes a base and a rotation member rotatably positioned on the base. The base includes a resisting surface and a connecting surface opposite to the resisting surface. A cylindrical protrusion is formed on the resisting surface. A locking portion is formed at an end of the cylindrical protrusion. The cylindrical protrusion defines an opening through the locking portion. The rotation member includes a bottom surface and a supporting surface opposite to the bottom surface. The rotation member defines a circular through hole. The locking portion is deformable due to the opening so that the cylindrical protrusion is able to pass through the circular through hole. The locking portion releases after the locking portion passes through the circular through hole and resists the rotation member to prevent the rotation member from detaching from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin-Xin Wang, Fan Zhou, Guo-Qi Zhang
  • Publication number: 20090284030
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for connecting attachments to a vehicle, which generally includes a first piece and a second piece depending thereon. The first piece is a locator piece connected to the vehicle adjacent the license plate or the trunk of a vehicle. For instance, the first piece may be secured or locked to a license plate using a locking mechanism, which includes a cam and rods. In another embodiment, the first piece may be a support bracket dimensioned and configured to rest over a rim of a trunk without interfering with the normal functions of a lock on the trunk. The second piece can include a variety of devices such as and not limited to a bumper guard or a tray. The second piece may depend from and be removably connected to the first piece. By the second piece being removably connectable to the first piece, the second piece can be easily replaced when damaged or worn or interchanged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Rein
  • Publication number: 20090175675
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for emplacing connecting elements in metal sheets or sheet components made of metal by inserting a bolt-like or sleeve-like joining section of the connecting element into a joining opening provided in a metal sheet, so that the connecting element bears with an extended head section against one surface side of the metal sheet and projects with a partial length of the joining section over the other surface side of the metal sheet, and by subsequent pressing of the connecting element in the metal sheet through plastic material deformation by applying a pressing force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Heiko Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20090162136
    Abstract: The invention is related to a fastener assembly of the kind used to secure a gas turbine engine rotor disc assembly on a shaft in a situation which otherwise would required the use of a trapped nut. It thereby removes a design constraint limiting bore diameter of the disc assembly to permit access to a securing. nut on the shaft, and avoids the use of a trapped nut. One of the rotors hubs is adapted to be mounted on the shaft and the securing nut is engaged with a thread on the shaft to trap the hub. In the improvement of the invention the hub is provided with an axial keyway through which the securing nut is passed into the limited access space. Once the shaft is engaged with the hub the nut is then engaged with the thread on the shaft and tightened using a special tool extending through the centre of the shaft. The tool is withdrawn after use. The nut may be undone and retrieved in an opposite operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Ian Makin, Michael C. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7549819
    Abstract: A device comprising two hollow profiles which are arranged approximately at a right angle from each other and each of which is provided with a profiling channel that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) of the profile and an undercut longitudinal groove in at least one lateral face of the profile, the longitudinal groove extending parallel to the profiling channel. The two hollow profiles are held together by a connecting screw whose shaft engages into the profiling channel of one hollow profile and whose screw head is mounted within an undercut longitudinal groove of the other hollow profile. The periphery of the screw head is provided with grooves or notches that run on planes extending from the longitudinal axis (M) of the shaft while forming ribs therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Ulrich Stauss
  • Publication number: 20090145865
    Abstract: A tool storage rack is provided. The tool storage rack comprises a rack body for providing a hollow space, wherein the rack body includes at least one accommodation surface formed with an installation groove thereon. The present invention also provides at least one tool connector which can be partly inserted into the installation groove for engaging the rack body, so as to accommodate a tool. The at least one tool connector comprises: a first engaging end, which can be inserted into the installation groove of the rack body for installation on a backside of the accommodation surface; and a second engaging end, which can engage a tool to be accommodated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Hsu Po Yu
  • Patent number: 7540140
    Abstract: An improved shackle assembly is disclosed that provides a bow having specially configured receptacle on one end portion that interlocks with a specially configured pin assembly. The pin assembly has locking members or lugs that move between locking and releasing positions. The locking lugs can be moved to a locking position or unlocked using a rotating end portion of the shaft opposite the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventors: Carroll Diaz, Derrick Prentice
  • Patent number: 7226023
    Abstract: A clip includes a flange part capable of face-contacting a periphery part of an opening formed in an attachment member, and a main body part provided on the flange part and inserted into the opening. A locking claw is formed on the main body part to be inserted into an attachment hole formed in an attachment receiving member to which the attachment part is attached for locking on a peripheral part of the attachment hole. An operation piece extends from the locking claw for converting a pressing force pressed by a tool inserted into an operation hole formed in the flange part into a force causing the locking claw to be unlocked from the peripheral part of the attachment hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: NIFCO Inc.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Banno, Noboru Yano, Toshitsugu Shimizu, Nobuyuki Donkai
  • Patent number: 6997635
    Abstract: A latch structure for a mobile electronic device (1), for example, a personal digital assistant (PDA) is disclosed. The latch structure comprises a side flange (20) of a cover (10) and a side panel (30). The side flange (20) includes a cantilever (200) and at least a first engaging portion (205). The cantilever has a slanted face (201) and a lock (203) on a free end thereof. The lock has a first ramp (207). The side panel detachably connects to the side flange and defines a hole (301). The side panel includes a second engaging portion (303) and a third engaging portion (305). The hole corresponds to the slanted face. The second engaging portion has a second ramp (307) corresponding to the first ramp of the lock. The lock engages with the second engaging portion in a first position and disengages from the second engaging portion in a second position. The first engaging portion engages with the third engaging portion in the first position and disengages from the third engaging portion in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: High Tech Computer, Corporation
    Inventors: Sheng-Ming Liu, Ching-Shih Chen
  • Patent number: 6901821
    Abstract: An assembly for preventing rotation of a damper in a stator system includes a slot in the damper and a block for engaging the slot to prevent rotation of the damper. The block is positioned within a groove located at a mid span portion of an inner air seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Torrance, David P. Dube
  • Patent number: 6853697
    Abstract: An apparatus, transfer cask, system, and method for defueling a nuclear reactor and transferring spent nuclear fuel from a spent nuclear fuel to a storage cask for long terms storage. In one aspect, the invention is an apparatus for use in transferring a canister of spent nuclear fuel from a transfer cask to a storage cask, the apparatus comprising a radiation absorbing shield surrounding a portion of a hole through which the canister can pass; means for securing the apparatus to the top surface of the storage cask; means for securing the bottom surface of the transfer cask to the apparatus; wherein the transfer cask securing means and the storage cask securing means are positioned on the apparatus so that when the apparatus is secured to both the transfer cask and the storage cask, the cavity of the transfer cask, the hole, and the cavity of the storage cask are substantially aligned; and means for moving the bottom lid in a horizontal direction once the bottom lid is unfastened from the bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Holtec International, Inc.
    Inventors: Krishna P. Singh, Stephen J. Agace
  • Patent number: 6659678
    Abstract: A mechanism for keeping a lock device released comprises a through-hole which is defined through a side surface of an intermediate block member having a lock device and which externally communicates, a hexagon wrench which is inserted externally through the through-hole and which is connected to a lock plate, and a plate spring which fastens the hexagon wrench with the lock being released by moving the lock plate upwardly with the hexagon wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Takahashi, Atsushi Tamai
  • Publication number: 20030086750
    Abstract: A hydroelastic joint 1 comprises parallel hydraulic circuits 5, 5′, 6, 6′ that provide a different hydraulic function in different loading directions. The number and configuration of the hydraulic circuits is a function of the load profile and the behavior intended for the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventor: Etienne De Fontenay
  • Patent number: 6331090
    Abstract: Device for establishing a gastight and fluidtight connection in a horizontal level between two or more containers (100, 200) of the iso-container type. The device includes a substantially band shaped, elastic sealing member (300) which surrounds an opening (20) between the containers to be connected and which is arranged on a supporting surface (105). A pressure exerting member (130) is provided to hold the sealing member (300) tightly against the supporting surface (105) with tightening members (400) to force the sealing member (300) against the supporting surface (105). The sealing member (300) in mounted position is arranged with a generally rectangular cross section and is placed against a supporting surface (105) on the respective containers, generally extending in the main level of the respective containers. The pressure exerting member constitutes at least four generally band shaped members (130) arranged at the respective flat supporting surfaces (105) of a container (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Uniteam ASA
    Inventor: Svein Rene
  • Patent number: 6139216
    Abstract: In a device for reversibly locking a constant-velocity joint (2) with respect to a hub (1), the constant-velocity joint is axially locked to the hub by means of a spring-lock ring (21) of circular cross section recessed in a circumferential groove (22) in part formed on said joint (2) and in part on said hub (1). The joint comprises reaction means (24) integral therewith, particularly a rigid annular diaphragm disposed adjacent to the hub and facing an axial through bore (15) formed in the hub. The diaphragm is adapted for co-operation with an extraction tool (28) that can be inserted through the hub bore (15) in order to apply to the joint (2) and the spring-lock ring (21) an axial force with relative to the hub in either direction so as to separate or couple the joint (2) from or to the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: SKF Industrie S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Bertetti
  • Patent number: 5911800
    Abstract: A tool of the type having a drive stud for receiving and releasing a tool attachment includes an opening in the drive stud and a locking pin movably mounted in the opening. The opening defines upper and lower ends, and the lower end of the opening is located at a portion of the drive stud constructed for insertion into the tool attachment. An actuating member is movably positioned on the drive stud, and the actuating member defines a sliding surface oriented transversely to the pin to engage an upper end of the pin. A first spring biases the sliding surface toward the pin, and a second, weaker spring biases the pin toward the sliding surface. Movement of the actuating member along the longitudinal axis of the drive stud in a selected direction allows the second spring to slide the pin from the engaging to the release positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Roberts Tool International (USA), Inc.
    Inventors: Peter M. Roberts, C. Robert Moon
  • Patent number: 5819495
    Abstract: A fastening device comprises a connecting member 8 and a body 1, an object to be secured typically being attached to the connecting member, and the body being installed, at a fixed location 25. To secure the object, an end 11 of the connecting member 8 must be inserted through an opening 6 in the body 1 for engagement with a retaining means after the retaining means has been temporarily moved away from its operative position. An actuating means 13, which may be hidden, is used for release of the object, and may require some skill for operation. Installation of the body 1 is described in relation to one embodiment of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher Alan Goodland
  • Patent number: 5803641
    Abstract: A device to be used in inserting the individual tension elements of a freely tensioned tension member, for example, a stay cable for a cable-stayed bridge, into a tubular sheathing. A guide element to be attached to the front end of an individual element includes an expansion member whose diameter in its non-expanded state corresponds approximately to the diameter of the individual element, while the diameter in the expanded state is greater than the diameter of the individual element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Dyckerhoff & Widmann Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Oswald Nutzel
  • Patent number: 5651170
    Abstract: A method for using a positioning apparatus having a cylindrical shaft including a retaining shaft, an expansion shaft, and a frustoconical transition shaft extending therebetween. The expansion shaft has a recess sized to receive a flange radially extending outward on an elongated member. The shaft is configured to be received within a housing having a passageway extending therethrough. The passageway is defined by an interior surface which includes a cylindrical first surface positioned at the top of the housing. The first surface has an inner diameter equal to the outer diameter of the split ring. The interior surface also includes a frustoconical constriction surface positioned at the bottom end of the housing. The housing raises and lowers relative to the shaft for positioning the split ring onto the elongated body under the force of a weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Stevens
  • Patent number: 5577855
    Abstract: A system for anchoring a cable to a support. The anchoring system has a fitting for attachment to a cable to be anchored and a receiver for the fitting. Structure is provided for connecting the receiver to a support. Structure cooperates between the fitting and receiver for maintaining the fitting in an anchored state on the receiver. The structure for connecting the receiver to a support includes an anchor element having an operating portion that is manipulatable to selectively a) effect connection of the receiver to a support in an operative position and b) release the receiver from the operative position. The structure cooperating between the fitting and receiver blocks access to the operating portion of the anchor element with the fitting in the anchored state on the receiver to prevent release of the receiver from the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger J. Leyden, Terrance Surma
  • Patent number: 5503048
    Abstract: A tool of the type having a drive stud for receiving and releasing a tool attachment includes an opening in the drive stud and a locking pin movably mounted in the opening. The opening defines upper and lower ends, and the lower end of the opening is located at a portion of the drive stud constructed for insertion into the tool attachment. An actuating member is movably positioned on the drive stud, and the actuating member includes a blade that defines a sliding surface oriented transversely to the locking member to fit within a slot in the locking member and engage a ledge surface of the locking member. Movement of the actuating member along the longitudinal axis of the drive stud in a selected direction causes the ledge surface to slide along the sliding surface to move the locking member from an engaging to a release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Link Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: C. Robert Moon
  • Patent number: 5366315
    Abstract: A multiple channel fiber optic connector (44) carries a plurality of fiber optic socket termini (58, 60, 62, 64), each of which includes an alignment sleeve (42) mounted on a forward end. In order to facilitate installation of the alignment sleeves and removal of the sleeves for cleaning of the sleeves (42) and the end (35) of the optical fiber (34) of each socket terminus, the alignment sleeves (42) for each terminus of the connector (44) are all securely mounted in an alignment sleeve carrier (46). The carrier itself is detachably connected to the connector 44 and, when so connected, positions each alignment sleeve on its respective fiber optic terminus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventor: James T. Hartley
  • Patent number: 5356237
    Abstract: A walk-aiding wheeled frame comprises base tubes, handle tubes, and fastening devices. The connecting portions of the base tube and the handle tube are polygonal in their cross sections. The base tube is provided with a locking slot. The fastening device comprises a pressing baffle capable of being driven to move by a wrench, and a hexagonal fastening tube provided with a locking baffle corresponding in location to the locking slot of the base tube. The handle tube and the base tube are fastened securely in an end-to-end manner by means of the pressing baffle, which is driven by the wrench to move inwards, and of the locking baffle. Such method of fastening the base tube and the handle tube ensures that the handle tube does not become loosely attached, thereby safeguarding the user of the walk-aiding wheeled frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Jung T. Sung
  • Patent number: 5352057
    Abstract: A release key for adjustable track hurdles having telescoping members with a biased detent locking assembly located within a pair of longitudinal telescoping members, wherein the detent extends outwardly through aligned apertures in the telescoping members to selectively lock those members in predetermined longitudinal positions. The key features a pressure plate having inner and outer faces, with the inner face having an inwardly extending release protuberance and shaped portion which corresponds in conformation with at least a portion of the outer surface of the telescoping members. The outer face preferably includes a handle to further facilitate manipulation by the user, and the release protuberance is aligned with the biased detent in use and extends at least partially into the aligned apertures when its inner face is placed in contact with the outer surface of the telescoping members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Charles R. Zody
  • Patent number: 5347673
    Abstract: A hand-held orbital polisher includes a manually actuatable coupling arrangement operating between a motor driven support platen and a polisher pad assembly having a backing platen connected to the support platen for rotation therewith. Respective pairs of manually actuatable shoulders are driven by a tool to simultaneously drive an array of coupling lugs on one of the platen into and locked engagement with the other platen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Nickels, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5301972
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bicycle frame folder including two pivoted folding frames, a stop block received in between the folding frames and driven by a control lever to lock the folding frames in the closed position or to unlock the folding frames for permitting them to be opened in folding up the bicycle frame tubes connected thereto, a guide screw turned to move the stop block forwards in locking the folding frames in the closed position or backwards in releasing the folding frames, the control lever having a spring supported safety hook releasably hooked on a stub retaining rod on the lower folding frame as the folding frames are closed and locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Gin-Chaung Lee
  • Patent number: 5269619
    Abstract: The connection has a connection piece (1) which has two displaceable wedges (4, 13) in a bearing housing (8) . These wedges (4, 13) can be displaced in the bearing housing (8) independently of one another by a guide bearing (15, 16). In the working position, the wedge (4) extends into a dovetailed longitudinal groove (20) of a sectional bar (2). The front side (5) of the wedge (4) is profiled and engages a correspondingly profiled wall (22) of the sectional bar (2) in a positive-locking manner. The wedge (4) spreads two clamping tongues of the bearing housing (8) against the flanks of the longitudinal groove (20). By pivoting the guide bearing (15), the wedge (4) can be retracted, and the connection can be separated. A second wedge (13) is inserted axially into the interior space of a second profiled piece (3). This wedge (13) spreads two brackets (11) of the bearing housing (8 ). Both sectional bars (2, 3) have the same design and may be cut off to any desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Geberit AG
    Inventors: Clemens Warkus, Walter Eggenberger
  • Patent number: 5259085
    Abstract: A floor-care work disk (4) which can be mounted by a clip mounting to the drive plate (1) of a floor-care apparatus (G) and has clip-tongue passage windows (6) and a resting surface (9) which permits wobbling movement between drive plate (1) and floor-care work disk. The resting surface (9) is arranged on the outside of the clip-tongue passage windows (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Vorwerk & Co. Interholding GmbH
    Inventors: Gentile Marafante, Mario Tecchiati, Wieland Guhne, Hans J. Birr
  • Patent number: 5214986
    Abstract: A tool of the type having a drive stud for receiving and releasing a tool attachment includes an opening in the drive stud and a locking pin movably mounted in the opening. The opening defines upper and lower ends, and the lower end of the opening is located at a portion of the drive stud constructed for insertion into the tool attachment. The lower end of the locking member is constructed to engage the tool attachment when the locking member is positioned in an engaging position and to release the tool attachment when the locking member is moved to a release position. An actuating member is movably positioned on the drive stud, and a flexible tension member is secured between the actuating member and the locking pin and extends through the upper end of the opening such that movement of the actuating member causes the locking pin to move from the engaging to the release positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventor: Peter M. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5211497
    Abstract: A connecting device for connecting two panels, particularly furniture panels, together in a preliminary position. A casing of the connecting device has an overall cylindrical shape. The casing is capable of receiving a bolt head through an enlarged opening into a hollow interior. A portion of an exterior circumferential side wall has a slot which is opened to only one side. The enlarged opening has an elastic narrowing section in which the width of the opening is less than the largest diameter of the bolt head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Assignee: Hafele America Co.
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Kraft
  • Patent number: 5205312
    Abstract: A fire hydrant locking arrangement which is intended for utilization on a conventional fire hydrant. Moreover, also disclosed is a method of producing a fire hydrant locking arrangement through a heat-meltable locking ring which will inhibit the unauthorized opening of fire hydrants while facilitating the ready servicing of the internal components of the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Magna-Loc Valve Corp.
    Inventors: James K. Jerman, Guido Salvato
  • Patent number: 5087069
    Abstract: A restraint system mounting includes a plurality of hollow support members mounted within the hub portion of the steering wheel in a predetermined pattern. The support members interfit with mounting members which depend from a restraint system module and are arranged in the same pattern. Aligned recesses in the interfitting annular members receive a leg of a spring clip to releasably secure the members to each other. A key inserted through an opening in the hub portion into each pair of interfitting members cams the spring leg out of engagement with the mounting members to release the restraint system module for removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignees: General Motors Corporation, Saturn Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Corbett, Michele A. Smith, Barry C. Worrell
  • Patent number: 5052849
    Abstract: The quick-locking connector comprises a tubular female body member 14, open at one end to receive a male member 10 therein. A latch 18 is located within the female body member 14 spring-urged towards the open end to engage the male member 10. A plurality of external, longitudinally spaced bearing surfaces 40-43 are provided on the male member 10 and complementary bearing surfaces 40-43 are provided internally of the female body member such that after entry of the male member a quarter turn of the members brings the respective bearing surfaces 40-43 into engagement at longitudinally spaced intervals against pressure from the latch to provide a longitudinally spaced plurality of complementary bearing surfaces 40-41 to be subjected to axial impact forces tending to pull the male and female members apart. A plurality of complementary bearing surfaces 42, 43 may be provided to be subjected to impact forces in the opposite axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Petroline Wireline Services, Ltd.
    Inventor: Klaas Zwart
  • Patent number: 5040269
    Abstract: A quick assembly attachment mechanism comprising an elongated stud member having two notches formed in its surface and a receiving member that non-rotatably engages the stud member and includes at least two bendable tabs that are bent into the notches to lock the stud against longitudinal motion. The receiving member includes access openings to permit the tabs to be bend back out of the notches so that the stud may be removed. The attachment mechanism is particularly suited for use in connecting steel components such as steel hinges to steel doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: The Bilco Company
    Inventor: George W. Lyons, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4990020
    Abstract: An assembling device for releasably fixedly securing first and second plate-like members together includes a main case mounted on the first member and having an opening for receiving therein a hook member fixed to and projecting from the second plate-like member. A rotary body is rotatably disposed in the main case and includes structure defining a cylindrical inner surface which faces and is eccentric with a rotary shaft, the cylindrical inner surface being engageable with the hook member. A retaining mechanism is provided which yieldably retains the rotary body rotationally fast with the main case at a predetermined rotational position. Rotation of the rotary body causes relative reciprocal motion between the hook member and the main case such that the hook member reaches a desired position relative to the main case, whereby the first and second members are releasably fixedly secured to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kojima Shohten
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Matsui
  • Patent number: 4976565
    Abstract: Bolting apparatus for use with countertop panels and the like of wooden and laminate construction, for securing a first such panel to a second panel, with an edge of the first panel engaging an edge of the second panel, the disclosure including a draw bolt and attached pressure plate members for engaging depressions in the underside of the two panels and the draw bolt spanning the engaging panel edges, the draw bolt being quickly tightenable to draw the engaging panel edges tightly together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Inventor: Alexander Stefan