Releasably Captive Nut Or Bolt Patents (Class 403/21)
  • Patent number: 11339570
    Abstract: A pass through grid connector clip for a suspended ceiling. The grid connector clip is made of two identical halves connected back-to-back by a fastener passing through a first aperture of both identical halves or other joining method. The identical halves each have a web with a first side and an opposite second side defining a height; a third side and an opposite fourth side defining a length; a louver element closer to a fourth side than the third side; a half sleeve located between the clip and the louver element and extending from the first side to the second side the in a substantially semi-circular shape; the first aperture located between the half sleeve and the clip or the half sleeve and the louver element. The halves include a clip connected to the third side and two flanges projecting in substantially the same direction from opposite sides of the web. As a result, when the halves are joined back-to-back they form a pass through sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Worthington Armstrong Venture
    Inventors: Yu Lin, Brett W. Sareyka, Joseph Auriemma, Jr., Joshua L. Neal, Sebastien Place, Jeff Markley, Jason Robbins, Nicholas Shaffer
  • Patent number: 11280086
    Abstract: A subarchitectural office system including a first subarchitectural wall, a second subarchitectural wall, and a single arch extending between the first and second subarchitectural walls. The single arch including a first vertical post, a second vertical post, and a first overhead beam. The subarchitectural office system also includes a double arch extending between the first and second subarchitectural walls. The double arch includes a third vertical post, a fourth vertical post, a fifth vertical post, a second overhead beam, and a third overhead beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: MillerKnoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Ayse Birsel, Bibi Seck, Andrew Kurrasch
  • Patent number: 11168603
    Abstract: A mounting assembly unit includes a mounting element (12) to be fixed by at least one fastening bolt (30). At least one mounting element passage opening (14, 16) is provided in the mounting element (12) for the passage of the at least one fastening bolt (30). A mounting aid unit (18a, 18b) associated with at least one mounting element passage opening (14, 16) is provided at the mounting element (12). The mounting aid unit (18a, 18b) associated with the mounting element passage opening (14, 16) has a mounting aid unit passage opening (22a, 22b), which is positioned aligned with respect to the mounting element passage opening, such that an edge area (28a, 28b of the mounting aid unit (18a, 18b), which edge area surrounds the mounting aid unit passage opening (22a, 22b), is arranged overlapping the mounting element passage opening (14, 16) in some areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: Purem GmbH
    Inventor: Véronique Guérin
  • Patent number: 10820698
    Abstract: A frame corner member includes an elongated hollow extrusion having a central corner portion and two leg portions extending from the central portion. Each leg portion includes an inner side wall spaced from and parallel to an outer side wall, and merging with the central portion. An outer end wall joins the inner and outer side walls, which each include an inner surface facing the inner surface of the other side wall. An opening through the outer end wall defines a space between the inner and outer side walls adjacent one end of the extrusion for receiving one end of one of frame side members and end members. At least one of the inner surfaces in the space has discrete surface features adapted to grip and retain the one end of one of the side members and end members in the space when received through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: BALANCED BODY, INC.
    Inventors: Ken Endelman, Kit W. Spelman
  • Patent number: 10746574
    Abstract: There is provided a mounting tool, for a linear displacement measuring apparatus, which is capable of reducing thermal stress of a scale housing case and is detachable while having a simple structure. The mounting tool includes a cylindrical bush inserted into a through hole drilled in the scale housing case, an O-ring interposed between an inside wall of the through hole and the bush, a mounting screw inserted into a cylindrical hole of the bush and screwed into a mounting face, and a plate spring arranged between a head part of the mounting screw and an outside face of the scale housing case, and biasing the scale housing case toward the mounting face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: MITUTOYO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazushi Kikuchi, Takashi Gohma
  • Patent number: 10538913
    Abstract: A connection for a subarchitectural workspace includes a first structure with a first end and a second end opposite the first end and a second structure with a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The connection assembly further includes a first bracket with a first fine adjustment surface mounted to the first structure, a second bracket with a second fine adjustment surface that engages the first fine adjustment surface, and a clamping mechanism that applies a clamping force to the first and second fine adjustment surfaces to pull the first and second structures together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: HERMAN MILLER, INC.
    Inventors: John Matthai, Robert Michael Seeley, James Moon
  • Patent number: 10487866
    Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a fastening device. In the fastening device, a sleeve is formed with a through-hole which defines a rotation space, a position-limiting ring is formed on the sleeve and includes a first position-limiting fastening groove and two second position-limiting fastening grooves; a fastening member is formed on a bottom surface of a rod head of a rotary knob device dispose outside the sleeve; a long protrusion rod and two short protrusion rods are formed in the sliding inner hole of the assembly space and respectively aligned with the first position-limiting fastening groove and the two second position-limiting fastening grooves. During locking operation, the drive cap can be bi-directionally rotated; and during unlocking operation, the drive cap can only be unidirectionally rotate, thereby achieving the purpose of easily recognize the locked or unlocked state according to different hand feeling in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: HANWIT PRECISION INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Ming-De Wu, Ching-Kai Chang
  • Patent number: 10411339
    Abstract: An adjustor configured to position an antenna coupled to a mounting element includes an adjustor nut having a bore extending along a longitudinal axis of the adjustor nut. At least a portion of the bore has inner threads configured to engage corresponding threads on a first portion of the mounting element positioned within the bore. A tool interface is positioned near a proximal end region of the adjustor nut and an external fastening mechanism positioned near a distal end region of the adjustor nut. A preload nut configured to engage the external fastening mechanism and configured to apply a load onto a second portion of the mounting element is positioned between a portion of the adjustor nut and the preload nut. Rotation of the adjustor nut around the longitudinal axis causes movement of the first portion along the longitudinal axis while the load is applied onto the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: E-BAND COMMUNICATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Andrew Cashion, Jimmy Hannan
  • Patent number: 10400440
    Abstract: An anchor holder for concrete decks comprises a body for being inserted into an opening in a metal deck, the body including an outside vertical wall and an opening for receiving an anchor. The body includes arms normally biased extending outwardly from the vertical wall, the arms being collapsible toward the body when the body is inserted into the opening in the metal deck and expanding outwardly after passing the opening to be disposed below the metal deck. A support is attached to the body, the support to engage a top surface of the metal deck to apply an upward force on the body and keep the collapsible arms engaged against an underside of the metal deck when the body is attached to the metal deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: CETRES HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M. Espinosa
  • Patent number: 10228005
    Abstract: A structural assembly comprising a first component having a ramped surface, and a fastener assembly for fastening the first component to a second component, the fastener assembly including a receptacle strip of resiliently deformable material attached to the ramped surface of the first component so as to assume the contour of the ramped surface, and a plurality of fastener receptacles attached to the receptacle strip for receiving respective fasteners. Also, a method of fastening a first component to a second component using the fastener assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: James Wilson, Paul Hadley, John Gleave
  • Patent number: 10132345
    Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a fastening device including a sleeve, a rotary knob device and a drive cap. The sleeve is formed with a through-hole which defines a rotation space at a side thereof. A fastening part and a position-limiting ring are formed on an outer side of the sleeve, and the position-limiting ring includes multiple position-limiting fastening grooves on a periphery thereof. The rotary knob device includes a rotary rod movably inserted through the through-hole. The assembly space of the sleeve is formed with a sliding inner hole for covering the position-limiting ring of the sleeve, and the position-limiting ring is longitudinally movable in the sliding inner hole, and the sliding inner hole includes two long protrusion rods and two short protrusion rods formed on the sidewall thereof and separately fastened in the position-limiting fastening grooves. Therefore, the fastening device can be operated for locking or unlocking easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: HANWIT PRECISION INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Ming-De Wu, Ming-Chung Chiu
  • Patent number: 9687683
    Abstract: A bracket fixing for securing a safety line to a structure, has a safety line receiving portion and a fixing portion connected to the safety line receiving portion, the fixing portion having a captive mechanical fixing, arranged to engage with and secure the bracket to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Latchways PLC
    Inventors: Owain Jones, Karl Jones
  • Patent number: 9567741
    Abstract: An anchor holder for concrete decks comprises a body for being inserted into an opening in a metal deck, the body including an outside vertical wall and an opening for receiving an anchor. The body includes arms normally biased extending outwardly from the vertical wall, the arms being collapsible toward the body when the body is inserted into the opening in the metal deck and expanding outwardly after passing the opening to be disposed below the metal deck. A support is attached to the body, the support to engage a top surface of the metal deck to apply an upward force on the body and keep the collapsible arms engaged against an underside of the metal deck when the body is attached to the metal deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: CETRES HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M. Espinosa
  • Patent number: 9546000
    Abstract: A fixing structure for fixing a seat of a vehicle includes a fixing member which includes a locking section, a buffering section and a restricting section. The locking and restricting sections are provided with a thread for meshing with the thread of the locking passage, and the buffering section has no thread. The fixing seat includes a locking passage and a restricting space connected to the locking passage. The locking member is inserted through the cover and screwed into the fixing seat. When vibrations occur, the locking member will be unscrewed from the locking passage. However, in order to prevent the locking member from fully disengaging from the fixing seat, the buffering section is retained in the restricting space to prevent the thread of the restricting section from meshing with the thread of the locking passage, which prevents disengagement of the locking member in a vibrating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Super Alloy Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Henry Shih, Wen-Ping Tsai, Chin-Chuan Liang
  • Patent number: 9520658
    Abstract: A fastener assembly includes a second part for fastening to the first part. The first and second parts have openings for aligning with each other. The second part has a plurality of slots spaced apart from its opening. A nut holder is mounted to the second part. The holder has a base and a plurality of flexible legs projecting from the base. Each leg is adapted to be inserted through a corresponding one of the slots and to hold the holder to the second part. The base has a hexagonal shaped opening. The assembly also includes a hexagonal nut and a bolt. The nut is non-rotatably received by the hexagonal opening. The threaded shaft of the bolt extends through the first and second openings, and is threadably received by the nut so that the first part is held between the bolt head and the second part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Christopher J. Schmit, Joe S. Sauvageau
  • Patent number: 9228602
    Abstract: Disclosed is a connector assembly, which includes a metal base which defines a housing cavity arranged to receive the end of a male connector, a resilient interface element inside the housing cavity, and a metal clip inside the housing cavity by the resilient interface element. The metal clip engages removably with the end of the male connector inserted into the housing cavity to connect the metal base to the male connector. Also disclosed is a resilient interface element providing an interface between a male connector and a metal base defining a housing cavity to receive the end of a male connector, as well as a kit of parts. Such kit contains a metal base defining a housing cavity receiving the end of a male connector, a metal clip arranged to be capable of engaging removably with the end of the end of the male connector, and a resilient interface element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: FASTMOUNT LIMITED
    Inventors: Gregory John Kelly, Ronald Hanley
  • Patent number: 9121433
    Abstract: A joining element for square U-Shaped channelled structural members that have formed longitudinal ribs and an open slot. The joining element comprises a central body having one or more cruciform shaped protrusions. Each protrusion has a plurality of landing surfaces that engage with the channelled structural member so that when a protrusion is inserted into the end of the channelled structural member the landing surfaces of the protrusions positioned inside the arms of the crucifix protrusion, engage the free edges of the longitudinal ribs making a snug fit. The plurality of landing surfaces allows the channelled structural members to be independently rotated so that the open slot formed by the longitudinal ribs is oriented in the desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Inventor: Hilton Raymond Bacon
  • Patent number: 8672425
    Abstract: A cabinet structure assembly includes a cabinet, an attachment cover and an attachment member. The attachment cover includes a top wall portion. The top wall portion has an engagement recess with a first engagement face and an end part. The attachment member includes a base plate and a top plate. The top plate has a top face and an engagement protrusion that protrudes relative to the top face. The engagement protrusion has a second engagement face and a guide face. The second engagement face faces the first engagement face of the engagement recess. The guide face is arranged such that the guide face gradually deforms the end part of the top wall portion of the attachment cover away from the top face of the top plate upon installation of the attachment member relative to the attachment cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takahito Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20130294814
    Abstract: A friction locking retainer for a self-aligning system of mounting at least one photovoltaic module having a thickness to a surface, including: a clamp having a central portion defined by at least one generally vertical wall having a distal end with a flange transverse to the wall and extending away from the central portion, the central portion further having a first opening; a first elastomer element disposed below the first opening opposite from the central portion, the elastomer element having a central passage aligned to the first opening; a bolt having a head section and a threaded section, the bolt disposed to pass through the first opening and the central passage of the elastomer element; and a nut disposed about the threaded section of the bolt extending from the central passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Sader Power Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Dennis Sader
  • Patent number: 8398347
    Abstract: An inexpensive and reliable floating fastener is provided by manufacturing an integrated nutplate into the backside of the interior structural member. A retention clip engages the nutplate to capture the nut while allowing the nut to float. The integrated nutplate roughly aligns the floating nut to the axial through-hole in the structural member and provides the torque resistance required to drive the screw into the nut. The retention clip holds the nut in place and provides the axial resistance required for the lead chamfer of the screw to engage the nut and resist the axial loading on the screw during installation. The nutplate is designed to facilitate cost-effective manufacturing. The per hole cost of the integrated floating-fastener is approximately 30% of the cost of the industry standard riveted floating fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Wayne K. Woodall, Walter S. Pope, E. Russ Althof, Scott A. Muse
  • Patent number: 8371465
    Abstract: A drywall extension sleeve for an electrical box includes a rectangular sleeve with upper and lower flanges. The extension box preferably has an outer dimension that mates with a drywall ring or box. The sleeve is preferably attached to a pre-wired assembly, which includes an electric cable and electrical box, drywall ring and the electrical component wired to the cable. The extension sleeve is positioned between the drywall ring or box and the electrical component. The electrical assembly is installed and drywall is then attached to the framed-in wall. An opening is provided through the drywall for the electrical component. The electrical component is then loosened and the extension sleeve and electrical component moved outwardly. Retention clips are placed in upper and lower flanges of the extension sleeve and the electrical component is tightened, drawing the extension and the component flush against the outer surface of the drywall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Denier Electric Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis J. Denier
  • Patent number: 8281531
    Abstract: A ground anchor assembly includes at least two threaded studs, an anchor plate having at least two openings sized and shaped to receive the at least two threaded studs. The assembly further includes a first fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs attached to the respective stud and bearing against a first side of the anchor plate, and a break-away fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs and attached to the respective stud on an opposite side of the anchor plate. Each break-away fastener cooperates with the corresponding first fastener to retain the corresponding stud in position relative to the anchor plate and the other of the at least two studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Clifford Dent
  • Patent number: 8250829
    Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods described herein can be used to secure a rail to a module or the rail to a support using a nut that can be inserted at a desired point of mounting. Another exemplary system describes a flashing to be inserted under a roof shingle, wherein the flashing is secured to a support for a rail or module. Yet another exemplary system describes a clamp that secures a rail or module and is adjustable along the length of a post. Spacers can be added to the post to extend the adjustment range of the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Mainstream Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Greg McPheeters, Chris Oestreich, Ethan Miller
  • Patent number: 8186902
    Abstract: A disabling tab (100) for disabling an anti-disengagement or safety catch (80) such as on a connector (20) of a pedestal for elevated floors having mating internally and externally threaded components is disclosed. The safety catch (80) is a pivoted wedge shaped block defined at the lower end of an externally threaded component which defines a ramped portion (84) extending to a buttress end (86) facing the start of the external thread. In the internally threaded components, one thread also defines a buttress end (92). When the components are screwed together, the ramp (84) of the safety catch deflects inwards and passes the buttress end (92). When the components are unscrewed, the end (86) of the catch abuts the end (92) of the thread preventing the components from being unscrewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Alan Sian Ghee Lee, Henry Greaves
  • Patent number: 8064195
    Abstract: A storage device module is disclosed. The storage device module includes a storage device, a bracket for receiving the storage device, a mounting member attached to one side of the bracket, and a screw attached to the mounting member for extending through the bracket to screw into the storage device. A screw mounting structure is arranged on the mounting member for retaining the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guang-Yi Zhang, Zhe Zhang, Bing-Bao Guo
  • Patent number: 8037651
    Abstract: A ground anchor assembly includes at least two threaded studs, an anchor plate having at least two openings sized and shaped to receive the at least two threaded studs. The assembly further includes a first fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs attached to the respective stud and bearing against a first side of the anchor plate, and a break-away fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs and attached to the respective stud on an opposite side of the anchor plate. Each break-away fastener cooperates with the corresponding first fastener to retain the corresponding stud in position relative to the anchor plate and the other of the at least two studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Clifford Dent
  • Patent number: 7992465
    Abstract: A drive unit (10) actuates drives in a motor vehicle with a first housing part (12), in particular a pole pot (12), and a second housing part (14), in particular a gear housing or electronic housing (14, 15), which can be connected with connecting elements (40), wherein the first housing part (12) features receptacles (38) for the connecting elements (40), wherein the receptacles (38) are embodied as centering holes (36) for corresponding centering pins (48), which are arranged on the second housing part (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Haussecker, Stefan Freund, Thomas Huck, Markus Ochs
  • Publication number: 20100329780
    Abstract: A bushing includes a base portion having a central axis, a substantially circular aperture extending through the base portion along the central axis, and a plurality of tapered fingers integral with and protruding from the base portion. Each of the tapered fingers are configured to deflect from a first position in which a bolt or similar fastener may pass through the bushing to a second position in which the bushing constricts or clamps down around the bolt. A coupling system and method for rigidly securing two or more components together using one or more bushings is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: ECHOSTAR TECHNOLOGIES L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jason M. Fruh, Sam Edgar
  • Publication number: 20100272503
    Abstract: A nut and an assembly including such a nut are described herein, wherein the nut includes an outer shell having an outer surface, an inner circumferential surface having a inwardly extending flange, and an upper rim portion; and an insert piece having an upper outwardly extending portion and a plurality of downwardly extending projections, wherein each of the projections has an outer surface and an inner surface, a portion of the inner surfaces of the projections is configured to engage a nut-receiving surface and the outer portion of the projections is configured to engage the inner circumferential surface of the first outer shell such that upon a pushing action of a user the inwardly extending flange on the outer shell presses upwardly on the upper outwardly extending portion of the insert piece so that the portion of the inner surfaces of the projections configured to receive a nut-receiving surface moves outwardly and upon removal of the pushing action, portion of the inner surfaces of the projections con
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: AS IP Holdco, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Walter Pitsch, Marin Cvyatkov Marinov
  • Patent number: 7802408
    Abstract: A method of connecting a panel (50) to a panel joining member (51) is disclosed. The method includes the steps of forming a recess (16) adjacent to an edge of a panel. The panel (50) is located within a panel joining member (51) the panel (50) being located against a stop member (15) and the recess (16) being aligned with an aperture (18) in the wall (13B) of the joining member (51). A fastener (17) is passed through the aperture (18) and urges the panel towards the outer wall (15) of the joining member (51). A receiver (30) is inserted into the recess (16) to assist engagement of the panel (50) with the fastener (17). The receiver (30) has a shape complementary to that of the recess (16). Opposing walls (13A, 13B) of the joining member (51) are inclined towards one another to improve panel retention. A push or snap-fit join is included to facilitate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Quentor Limited
    Inventor: Anthony Asbury
  • Publication number: 20100014911
    Abstract: A spring-loaded captive fastener retainer provides a user-friendly system to mechanically fasten units (e.g. panels, cabinets, etc.) to other units. Generally, the retainer is spring-loaded to force a fastener to extend beyond the unit. The retainer has a housing that provides guidance to the fastener so that it is secured within the unit and travels in a predictable path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Kristopher Scott Robinson, Carey D. Harnois, James R. Tirrell
  • Publication number: 20090123220
    Abstract: A fixture includes a plate and a female screw. The plate includes a flat base portion, and two spaced restraining portions. Each restraining portion includes an elastic finger extending from the flat base portion, and a retaining tab inwardly extending from the elastic finger at a position distant from the flat base portion. The female screw is biased to the flat base portion by the retaining tabs, and defines two grooves therein. The elastic fingers are resiliently expandable outward when the female screw is forcibly inserted therebetween, and are received in the grooves respectively when the female screw is in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Cheng-Hung Chou
  • Publication number: 20090110471
    Abstract: A fastener system for use in removably attaching cover panels to openings in the sides of modules containing equipment on airplane ground support equipment carts, where the fasteners must not come loose to damage airplane engines. At least some modules have a metallic frame defining at least one opening providing access to the module's interior. This frame supports an inwardly recessed shelf around the inside perimeter of the opening. At least one cover panel is sized to fit removably within the opening. The shelf and the panel have aligned holes for fasteners, and the edges of the panel are bent inwards to form standoffs from the shelf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey E. Montminy, Brian A. Teeters, Kyta Insixiengmay
  • Publication number: 20090010704
    Abstract: A nutmount apparatus includes a sleeve, a bushing insertable into the sleeve and a nut. The nutmount apparatus may further include a nut retainer for holding an internally threaded nut. The nutmount apparatus may be used, in conjunction with a threaded screw or bolt, to secure a first structure, such as an aircraft wall or cover panel, to a second structure, such as an aircraft frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Horacio B. de Jesus, Elio Dalmau
  • Publication number: 20080181748
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fastener (1) for application to a threaded stud (31), having a sleeve-like retaining element (2) with a cavity (5) extending in the direction of its longitudinal axis to accommodate the threaded stud (31) and at least one deformable clamping region that tends to assume a clamping position projecting into the cavity (5) and gripping the threaded stud (31), and having a flange (3) arranged at the forward end of the retaining element (2) in the direction of installation that can be pressed onto an item (32) to be fastened, wherein the flange (3) is arranged a distance away from the retaining element (2) and attached to the retaining element (1) by means of spring shackles (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Frank Rosemann, Johann Reindl
  • Patent number: 7284728
    Abstract: The pipe hanger assembly is a pipe hanger and a holding assembly for retaining the pipe hanger against a pipe support. The pipe hanger has an inverted, generally U-shaped yoke having a slot defined in the bight of the yoke, a U-shaped saddle for supporting the pipe, and a bolt connecting the yoke and the saddle to each other. The holding assembly is at least a bracket having a pair of flanges defining a guide channel, the bracket being attached to a stud, threaded rod, or other pipe support suspended from a ceiling. The pipe hanger is assembled to the pipe, the bracket is attached to the rod, and the yoke is slid onto the rod between the bracket and a keeper, the yoke being aligned with the guide channel. The keeper is tightened to secure the pipe hanger to the pipe support. A pair of embossments protrude from an inner surface of the saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Michael J. Connolly
  • Patent number: 7201529
    Abstract: A retaining device is designed to retain a portion of an assembly device. The portion of the assembly device is released during failure of the assembly device. The retaining device includes a fixed part, a mobile part capable of sliding with respect to the fixed part, a housing, formed with both the fixed part and the mobile part, a return device, which can be compressed during a parts assembly operation. The return device can be relaxed when the assembly device fails, which causes sliding of the mobile part with respect to the fixed part, such that the portion of the assembly device is retained in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Snecma Moteurs
    Inventor: Pascal M. D. Lejeune
  • Patent number: 7047700
    Abstract: A pre-cast panel forming system. The system includes one or more bulkheads to constrain the flow of uncured panel-forming material. The bulkhead is made up of an upstanding form and a base clip to secure the upstanding form to a panel-forming surface. The base clip is configured to promote ease of attachment to the panel-forming surface, even though the thickness dimension of the upstanding form is reduced relative to conventional forms. In accordance with 37 CFR 1.72(b), the purpose of this abstract is to enable the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract will not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Fukuvi USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon Dodson, Kyozaburo Takagi
  • Patent number: 6974275
    Abstract: A bicycle component assembly is provided that includes a mounting member and a component attachment member coupled together via at least one locking member and at least a pair of fasteners. The locking member is mounted between the component attachment member and the heads of the fasteners. The locking member includes a pair of attachment portions with holes extending between contact surfaces and frictionally treated engagement surfaces of the attachment portions. A connecting section extends between the engagement portions of the locking member. The frictionally treated engagement surfaces are textured surfaces and/or coated with a frictional material. The head portions of the fasteners abut the contact surfaces to press the locking member against the component attachment member. Preferably, the attachment portions have flange sections that are bent to prevent rotation of the fasteners. Optionally, the connecting portion of the locking member can include a frictionally treated engagement surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Daisuke Nago, Keiji Matsueda
  • Patent number: 6959421
    Abstract: A method and system for helping a user perform tasks in software. Graphic elements (e.g., icons) are rendered and displayed regardless of which task is being performed. An element can be either active or inactive; user selection of an element with the element active initiates an action in response to the selection while user selection of the element with the element inactive will not initiate the action. Some elements are activated and other elements are deactivated according to which task is to be performed. The elements are selectively activated and deactivated to guide the user through the tasks according to the order in which the tasks are logically performed. The elements thus suggest an order for performing the tasks, guiding the user through the tasks without the need for a help utility such as a wizard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Manfred Bartz, Marat Zhaksilikov
  • Patent number: 6939073
    Abstract: In the aerospace field spacecraft components are held together by separation systems until a specific time when they must be separated or deployed. Customarily a threaded joining bolt engages one of the components to be joined, and a threaded nut is placed on that bolt against the other component so they can be drawn together by a releasable locking assembly. The releasable locking assembly herein includes a plunger having one end coupled to one end of a plunger bolt. The other end is flanged to abut and compress a coil spring when the plunger is advanced toward the interface plane between the two components. When the plunger is so advanced toward the interface plane, the end of the plunger bolt can be connected to the joining bolt. Thus during retraction the joining bolt is drawn to one side of the interface plane by the force of the expanding spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Rafiq Ahmed, Robert J. Wingate
  • Patent number: 6910826
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a light pole or the like is disclosed and is utilized on each of the anchor bolts of the foundation for the pole. Each of the couplings comprises a metal coupling nut which has a plurality of radially spaced-apart and vertically disposed slits formed therein which extend thereinto to create weakened areas or zones in the coupling nut. The coupling nut is embedded in a fiber-reinforced material which provides the necessary hoop strength to the coupling nut. The base plate of the pole is positioned on the upper ends of the coupling nuts and is secured thereto by bolts extending downwardly through the base plate of the pole. If the pole is struck by a vehicle, the fiber-reinforced body members, as well as the coupling nuts, fracture to permit the pole to break away from the foundation. The fiber-reinforced body member of the coupling not only adds hoop strength to the coupling nut, but prevents the metal coupling nut from being exposed to corrosive elements such as salt or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Armand A. Damiano
  • 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: 6776424
    Abstract: A sled includes a hull having walls defining an inboard hole. A lip extending outward from the hall forms an outboard hole opposed to the inboard hold. A support member extends through the inboard hold and the outboard hole, as well as through the hole of a strap, thereby securing the strap to the hull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: David Sellers
  • Patent number: 6773200
    Abstract: A recreational equipment rack system, which includes an equipment rack configured for exterior engagement on a vehicle. The equipment rack including a rack tongue configured to be inserted into and secured within a hitch receiver provided on the vehicle. A fastening mechanism configured to tightly secure the rack tongue to the hitch receiver. The fastening mechanism includes a bolt having a bolt head and a bolt post extending from the head for extending through transverse holes in the hitch receiver. The bolt post includes a threaded length and an unthreaded length. A nut assembly including a nut configured to engage the threaded length of the bolt enables selective clamping and releasing of the rack tongue with the hitch receiver. The bolt post has a removable post lock on its distal end to prevent removal of the rack from the vehicle without a security key or combination code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Watermark PaddleSports, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Cole
  • Patent number: 6692180
    Abstract: A connecting element of a lamp tube comprises a retaining block, a joint, a resisting block and a buffer pad. The distal end of the joint is installed with a threaded section. The middle section of the joint has an embedding portion. Thereby, the resisting block is exactly passed through by the threaded portion of the joint and a lateral side of the embedding portion of the joint is formed with a limiting groove. The resisting block has a position hole at position exactly aligned with the limiting groove. After a pin passes through the positioning hole, a distal end of the pin exactly protrudes into the limiting groove. The buffer pad is positioned between a large stepped end and the resisting block so that a resisting buffering area is formed between the joint and the resisting block. Thereby, a connecting element having a simple structure is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 6679480
    Abstract: A wire fastening device and a wire extending structure capable of extending a wire with an appropriate tension between support. The wire fastening device includes a case, a cap bolt and a pulling cylinder. The case has a wire engaging portion at one end thereof and a female thread formed on an inner circumference thereof. The cap bolt is inserted into the pulling cylinder with the head abutted with the pulling cylinder and has a male thread formed on an outer circumference thereof. The pulling cylinder is held on the cap bolt rotatably and the case, with one end of the wire engaged therewith, is screwed on the pulling cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignees: Joint Center Co., Ltd., Ultima Co., Ltd., Shoei Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Choei Hara, Takayuki Aoshika, Kenichi Masabayashi
  • Patent number: 6595083
    Abstract: A steering wheel includes a boss for fastening the steering wheel to a steering shaft. Among other features, the steering wheel has a pair of lower spokes that are deformable to absorb energy in a collision. The boss conserves space and has relatively long splines for engaging the steering shaft. The boss includes a plate that facilitates insert molding and conserves space. The spokes include integrally formed airbag supports. A bolt retainer is included in the steering wheel. The bolt retainer holds a bolt for tightening the boss on the steering shaft, and the bolt retainer permits one-handed attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akio Hosoi, Atsushi Nagata
  • Patent number: 6575658
    Abstract: A device for assembling a steering column bracket with a steering gear shaft, comprising a clamping bolt cooperating with a clamping nut disposed in one of two branches of the bracket, the clamping nut being held in place against rotation and translation by an antirotation elastic member and having a radial protrusion. An axial prepositioning abutment is fastened to the bracket. When the radial protrusion of the clamping nut is pressed against the axial prepositioning abutment, the clamping nut is partly withdrawn along its axis to allow the bracket to be engaged over the end of the shaft. At the end of tightening the clamping bolt in the clamping nut, the clamping bolt neutralizes the antirotation function of the antirotation elastic member in order to allow the clamping nut to escape from the axial prepositioning abutment and immobilize the bracket on the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Nacam France SA
    Inventors: Philippe Daniel, Pascal Goulay, Pascal Monteil
  • Patent number: 6564420
    Abstract: The invention is a wiper arm (20) for securement to a drive shaft (10,12). The wiper arm (20) has a securing part (18), which on one end has a bearing point (16) by way of which the wiper arm can be connected, in a manner fixed against relative rotation, to the drive shaft (10, 12) via a nut (14). The nut can be screwed onto the drive shaft (10,12). The nut is formed by a component integrally cast onto the securing part (18) and is connected to the securing part (18) via a binding (26) that can be released upon installation of the wiper arm (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Wilfried Merkel, Roger Daenen