Including Mechanical Interlock Patents (Class 403/267)
  • Publication number: 20140186100
    Abstract: A device and method for the protection of a first member and second member from corrosion by utilizing a connector that bonds the members without allowing direct contact of the members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventors: Henry E. Richardson, Jeffery Thomas Shantz, Alex Mangiapane
  • Publication number: 20140186099
    Abstract: A fastening arrangement for fastening a component, in particular a cabin component, to a structural component of an aircraft or spacecraft, including a structural component which has a connection surface; a fastening fitting which has a geometry matched to the geometrical shape of the structural component, has a connection portion associated with the connection surface of the structural component and is produced from a thermoplastic injection-moulding material; and an elastomeric adhesive joint for stable fastening of the connection portion of the fastening fitting to the associated connection surface of the structural component. A corresponding fastening fitting and an aircraft or spacecraft comprising a fastening arrangement of this type and/or a fastening fitting of this type are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Frank-Michael Klaukien
  • Publication number: 20140169861
    Abstract: A method for improving joint strength between a first and second member comprising the steps of: applying a sealant material including a matrix material at least partially encasing rigid components to the first and second members; joining the first and second members upon an application of force that is applied through the use of one or more fasteners; wherein a compressive force is applied to the exterior surface of both the first and second members by the one or more fasteners while the rigid components apply an internal tension force acting opposite of the compression force to the interior surface of both the first and second members proximate to the fastener to form a mechanical lock thereby reducing slippage and generally maintaining the joint in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Zephyros Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Apfel
  • Publication number: 20140161512
    Abstract: An apparatus for an aircraft structure comprising first and second stringers, each having a vertical stringer portion defining a lengthwise gap. The structure may include a fitting having a central rib attachment member and first and second extensions extending in opposite directions from said central rib attachment member. Stringer attachment portions extending up from said first and second extensions are inserted into the lengthwise gaps of the first and second stringer portions, respectively. The rib attachment member may be attached to a side-of-body rib.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Paul Nordman, Paul Nelson
  • Patent number: 8721815
    Abstract: Methods for assembling fiberglass reinforced plastic sucker rods include transporting fiberglass reinforced plastic sucker rod sections from an off-site location to an assembly facility at or near a point of use, and transporting a sufficient number of metallic end fittings to connect respective ends of the plurality of sucker rod sections in series at the assembly facility. Systems for assembly of completed sucker rods from sucker rod sections transported from off-site location to or near a point of use. The systems may include a female threaded end component, collar and machine mount that allows completed sucker rods to be pull tested, and record load, peak load, and elongation during the pull test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Centrax International Corp.
    Inventors: Donald Mike Johnson, Stephen Morris
  • Patent number: 8714162
    Abstract: A portable pipe bowl cleaner may include a poker for cleaning pipe bowls. The poker may generally extend linearly and have a top portion that is used to perform the cleaning. The portable pipe bowl cleaner may also include a base and a suction cup. One side of the base may be coupled with a bottom portion of the poker. Another side of the base may be coupled with the suction cup. The suction may have an internal cup surface that is capable of being removably affixed to a smooth, non-porous surface. A method of using a portable pipe bowl cleaner may include holding the base over a smooth, non-porous surface, with the suction cup facing toward the surface. By momentarily pressing the base toward the surface, the suction cup is pressed against and removably affixed to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Brett Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140033634
    Abstract: A tongue with edge sections that are used to glue the tongue into a groove of panel. A tongue for connection of a building panel, said tongue is of an elongated shape and made of moulded plastic, the tongue including at least two protrusions at a first long edge of the tongue, wherein the protrusions are bendable in a plane parallel to the upper surface of the tongue and extending essentially in the parallel plane and, wherein the tongue has a second long edge, which is essentially straight over substantially the whole length of the tongue and the tongue includes a gluing part configured to be glued into a groove at an edge of the building panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: VALINGE FLOORING TECHNOLOGY AB
    Inventor: DARKO PERVAN
  • Publication number: 20130209163
    Abstract: A method for joining components through mechanical adhesion comprising the following stages is disclosed: a) curing a resin laminate (1) on a surface (10) of a first component (11) imprinting a texture portion (30) upon the resin laminate (1); b) positioning an adhesive material laminate (2) on the texture portion (30); c) positioning a second component (12) on the adhesive material laminate (2); and d) curing the adhesive material laminate (2) and penetration of the adhesive material laminate (2) into the texture portion (30). Also described is a mechanical adhesion joint (20) for joining components, comprising an anchorage (40) formed by a texture portion (30) disposed on a first component (11) and permeated by an adhesive material laminate (2) contained in a second component (12), the texture portion (30) comprising a locking profile (31).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: EMBRAER S.A.
    Inventor: EMBRAER S.A.
  • Publication number: 20130195543
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a frame for a refrigerator and/or freezer or of a refrigerator and/or freezer, wherein the frame consists of several frame parts, wherein one of two frame parts adjacent to each other in the frame has a protrusion and the other one has a receptacle into which the protrusion is inserted, and wherein said two frame parts are connected with each other by the method of ultrasonic welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Liebherr-Hausgerate Lienz GmbH
    Inventor: Liebherr-Hausgerate Lienz GmbH
  • Publication number: 20130125496
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connection arrangement of hollow steel sections as support elements which are interconnected using a joint connection, the connection being subject to axial pressure. According to the invention, the joint connection is designed as a detachable, form-fitting plug-in connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: V & M Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Herion, Ole Josat
  • Patent number: 8430759
    Abstract: A torque tube includes a composite body and an end fitting. The composite tube includes a body having a body interior diameter, a wall thickness, an end having an edge, and a set of helically-shaped grooves. Each helically-shaped groove may pass through the wall thickness. Each helically-shaped groove may begin at the edge and end in the body. The end fitting may include a sleeve configured to mate with the body interior diameter and a set of ribs configured to mate with the set of helically-shaped groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Steven P. Wanthal
  • Publication number: 20130094896
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting element (1) for a friction-welded connection for connecting at least two panel-like components (8,9), comprising a rotating and pressurised mandrel (2, 13), the length of which is adapted to the thickness of the upper component(s) (7, 8) in order to penetrate the upper components(s) (7, 8), and which has a polygonal noncircular profile having rounded corner regions (5a, 5b). The noncircular profile has a thread-like design and has a pitch, the length of which is shorter than a complete thread turn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: EJOT GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Eberhard Christ, Joerg Thiem, Mario Maiwald, Gerhard Dubiel, Sebastian Zebisch, Nico Oschmann, Marco Werkmeister
  • Patent number: 8403586
    Abstract: A determinant assembly feature for a joint assembly and a method of assembly therefor. The joint assembly includes a structure and a web connected thereto. The structure includes a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel, and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg. The web includes a thickness control element and one or more location control elements correspondingly matched to the location control receiving elements. The method includes providing a structure comprising a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg; providing a web comprising one or more location control elements and a thickness control element; and inserting the web into the structure, wherein the one or more location control elements is correspondingly matched to the one or more location control receiving elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey H. Wood, Michael P. Renieri, Thomas R. Berkel
  • Patent number: 8398027
    Abstract: A computer implemented method and apparatus for creating a structural joint for an aircraft. A first composite component and a second composite component are co-joined to form the structural joint for the aircraft. A hole through the first composite component and the second composite component is created. A composite shear pin is placed through the hole. A composite collar is bonded to the composite shear pin with an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Wood
  • Publication number: 20130045043
    Abstract: A joint for panels, the panels comprising a core, a decorative upper surface and edges provided with joining means for positioning the panels towards one another. Predetermined portions of the edges are provided with a layer of polymer. The panels are. joined to one another by use of the joining means where the polymer forms a seal in the joint preventing penetration of water into the joint wherein a highly water resistant unit of a plurality of panels is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: PERGO (EUROPE) AB
    Inventors: Ake Sjoberg, Hakan Wernersson, Krister Hansson, Magnus Nilsson, Nils-Erik Engström, Sven Kornfalt
  • Publication number: 20130032079
    Abstract: Embodiments herein provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for fastening articles to an internal, or free form, surface of a rotomolded base. Inserts of various shapes and sizes may be incorporated/molded into a rotomolded base to provide a conventional primary attachment site on the exterior surface of the base. A portion of an insert that is molded into the base may project from the interior surface of the base. The projecting portion of the insert and the overlying rotomolded material may form a coupling element on the interior surface of the base, which may be used to attach an article to the interior surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: CONFLUENCE HOLDINGS CORP.
    Inventors: Christopher E. Erdahl, Mark R. Robertson, Jeffery S. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20120321376
    Abstract: A method of forming an aerodynamic arrangement (10) comprises providing a plurality of segments (16), providing elongate connecting means (20). The segments are connected to one another with the elongate connecting means. The method further includes introducing a curable securing composition into the connecting means, and allowing the securing composition to cure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Albert Edward David Walters
  • Publication number: 20120275847
    Abstract: An adhesively bonded joint in a boom arm of an agricultural sprayer has a tee-shaped brace member with a top flange and a stem extending from the top flange. A brace-receiving portion of the joint has a slot formed therein that receives the stem of the tee-shaped brace member. The sides of the stem and underside of the top flange are adhesively bonded to facing surfaces of the brace-receiving portion. The slot is formed with a v-shape, with the mouth of the slot being wider than the width of the distal end of the slot, to provide some flexibility in the angular positioning of the tee-shaped bracing member. The joint further includes a locking collar around an end of the tee-shaped brace. Opposite sides of the locking collar engage notches on either side of the slot to lock the stem of the tee-shaped brace member in the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Petrus Henricus Johannes Bouten
  • Publication number: 20120189378
    Abstract: A profile bar to be locked to a panel. A frame has a shape that is a continuous profile. The frame includes a slot in which the panel can be installed. A first side and a second side of the slot delimit the slot and support the panel. A protrusion is provided on the first side of the slot and fitted to be placed in a groove in the panel. A locking piece includes a locking part which can be inserted between the panel in the slot. The locking part makes the slot narrower, to push the panel against the protrusion and to support the panel such that the protrusion remains in the groove of the panel. The detachment of the panel from the frame is prevented. A panel system includes a planar panel equipped with at least one locking groove and profile bar to be locked to the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Lumon Invest Oy
    Inventor: Panu Visa
  • Patent number: 8186124
    Abstract: Connection device having at least one receiving building component, in particular a wooden body (1), which comprises at least a retention recess (2), in particular a continuous retention recess, and having a composite body (3) which is inserted into the retention recess (2) in the wooden body (1), wherein a composite mass (4) is curably inserted in an interstice (7) in the retention recess (2) between the wooden body (1) and the inserted composite body (3) such that the composite body is substantially frictionally secured in said retention recess (2), wherein an intermediate layer (5), in particular as a formation of the surface of the composite body and/or the composite mass, is at least partially provided between the composite body and the composite mass, providing at least partial decoupling of the composite mass from the composite body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Tobias Bathon
  • Patent number: 8181327
    Abstract: A method for improving joint strength between a first and second member comprising the steps of: applying a sealant material including a matrix material at least partially encasing rigid components to the first and second members; joining the first and second members upon an application of force that is applied through the use of one or more fasteners; wherein a compressive force is applied to the exterior surface of both the first and second members by the one or more fasteners while the rigid components apply an internal tension force acting opposite of the compression force to the interior surface of both the first and second members proximate to the fastener to form a mechanical lock thereby reducing slippage and generally maintaining the joint in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Zephyros, Inc
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Apfel
  • Patent number: 8171690
    Abstract: Washer assemblies for mounting panels to a support without damaging the panels include a countersunk washer and a sleeve. In one implementation, the washer assemblies are configured to at least partially prevent the formation of hoop stresses within a panel, and uniformly transmit forces created by a fastener to a panel. The washer assemblies can be configured to enhance the function, look, feel, or aesthetic of a panel system. In addition, systems of at least one implementation of the present invention include a plurality of panels mounted to one or more supports using one or more washer assemblies and methods of mounting such systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Venugopal R. Ghatikar, Bryan K. Harris
  • Patent number: 8141829
    Abstract: A low profile fixture button is provided for adhesive attachment to a substrate in a temporary or substantially permanent manner. The fixture button includes a plurality of preferably four over-center spokes substantially in a common plane and carrying a mounting plate having a pressure sensitive adhesive material thereon. The spokes are carried by an outer backstop rim, and are initially oriented with the mounting plate advanced toward the substrate. In a preferred form, the backstop rim seats within a counterbore formed in the rear side of a larger attachment adapted for low profile mounting onto the substrate. Pressing of the fixture button toward the substrate engages the advanced mounting plate with adhesive thereon with the substrate, and forces the spokes to displace over-center to a retracted position withdrawn substantially into the backstop rim and any associated larger attachment for low profile mounting onto the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Physical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles G. Hutter, III
  • Patent number: 8123284
    Abstract: A vehicle body component having a body portion and male and female dovetail portions. The male and female dovetail portions have substantially trapezoidal cross sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Gregory Thomas Hedderly
  • Patent number: 8117795
    Abstract: Flooring panels having a tongue and groove locking mechanism. The tongue-and-groove configuration principle are provided at the areas being connected. The sides of the groove diverge from the groove base and converge at the end away from the groove base. The opening width of the groove is greater than the foremost area of the tongue in the direction of insertion. The tongue exhibits wedge-shaped areas that diverge from front to back which areas exhibit an undercut in the back area of the tongue that conforms to the groove cross-section. The undercut's borders, adjoining the wedge-shaped areas, converge at the same angle as the groove sides toward a connecting bridge that is part of the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Franz Knauseder
  • Publication number: 20120034024
    Abstract: A joint for panels, the panels comprising a core, a decorative upper surface and edges provided with joining means for positioning the panels towards one another. Predetermined portions of the edges are provided with a layer of polymer. The panels are joined to one another by use of the joining means where the polymer forms a seal in the joint preventing penetration of water into the joint wherein a highly water resistant unit of a plurality of panels is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: PERGO (EUROPE) AB
    Inventors: AKE SJOBERG, HAKAN WERNERSSON, KRISTER HANSSON, MAGNUS NILSSON, NILS-ERIK ENGSTROM, SVEN KORNFALT
  • Publication number: 20110286786
    Abstract: A recess (67) is formed in a connection surface of a housing. A nut (52) is inserted into the recess (67) and fixed to the housing in a state exposed on the connection surface. A sealing material is introduced into the recess (67), and the outer peripheral surface of the nut (52) is coated with the sealing material. The recess (67) of the housing includes a first surface (71) arranged to face the outer peripheral surface of the nut (52) while forming an introduction space (74) for the sealing material between itself and the outer peripheral surface of the nut (52), a second surface (72) arranged to project radially outwardly from the opening edge of the first surface (71) and a third surface (73) arranged from the outer end of the second surface (72) to the connection surface in a direction crossing a projecting direction of the second surface (72).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: Takahiro Shibata
  • Patent number: 7993071
    Abstract: Assemblies for coupling together two elements are provided and include a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The second coupling member has a body sized and adapted to be fitted into a hollow space defined by the first coupling member. The coupling members are structured to deflect the body of the second coupling member toward a first wall of the first coupling member as the body is passed into the hollow space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Burrell E. Clawson
  • Publication number: 20110176863
    Abstract: A fastener for mounting a panel to a supporting structure includes a fastener part having a base with an upper and lower side. A connector is adapted to engage with another fastener part projecting from the upper side of the base. The lower side of the base is adapted to be adhesively connected to a substrate and incorporating a surface configuration that promotes a mechanical connection with an adhesive. The lower side surface configuration includes a protrusion extending from the base to a crown. The protrusion includes an undercut portion configured to form a mechanical connection with the adhesive. In use adhesive fills between the protrusions and forms a mechanical connection with the undercut portions when hardened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald Charles Hanley, Gregory John Kelly
  • Publication number: 20110174424
    Abstract: A device for attaching a door leaf to an automobile body including: at least one plate combined with at least one hinge of the door leaf and mounted on a framework of the door leaf so that at least one screw connected to the plate interacts with a hole combined with the hinge and protrudes through the door leaf framework; a bonding mechanism provided between each plate and the door leaf framework, for making the position of each plate on the framework permanent during a paint processing of the door leaf framework; and an adjustable attachment mechanism for each plate so that each plate is mounted on the door leaf framework with a sliding mounting clearance for adjusting the position of each plate relative to the framework when the door leaf is mounted on the automobile body and before the paint processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: RENAULT S.A.S.
    Inventor: Michel Briault
  • Patent number: 7914223
    Abstract: A determinant assembly feature for a joint assembly and a method of assembly therefor. The joint assembly includes a structure and a web connected thereto. The structure includes a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel, and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg. The web includes a thickness control element and one or more location control elements correspondingly matched to the location control receiving elements. The method includes providing a structure comprising a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg; providing a web comprising one or more location control elements and a thickness control element; and inserting the web into the structure, wherein the one or more location control elements is correspondingly matched to the one or more location control receiving elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey H. Wood, Michael P. Renieri, Thomas R. Berkel
  • Publication number: 20100239365
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for frictionally coupling two coaxial components (4, 5, 41, 42), especially two shafts (41, 42) or a shaft (4) and a hub (5). Said device comprises a first, inner coupling element (2) having a conical, peripheral surface (22) and a second, outer coupling element (3) having a conical, inner peripheral surface (32, 52). The two coupling elements (2, 3) are suitable to be reversibly slid one onto the other in the direction of a longitudinal axis (11), thereby being elastically deformed in the radial direction in such a manner that the conical peripheral surfaces (22, 32, 52) come to rest one on another, and the two coaxial components (4, 5, 41, 42) are frictionally interconnected via the coupling elements (2, 3) owing to the radial forces caused by the elastic deformation of the coupling elements (2, 3). The outer coupling element (3) has at least one peripheral seal (35?, 35?) on the peripheral surface (32) on each longitudinal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Jan Wernecke
  • Patent number: 7761973
    Abstract: A connection system for steel construction employs both fasteners and an adhesive for connecting panels to a metal frame or metal studs. The connection system also joins metal components such as web stiffeners, hold-down clamps and vertical clips to metal studs and cross-channel members. The fasteners may be a self-drilling screw, rivets, pins, clinches or other mechanical fasteners. The adhesive may be a two-part epoxy system, an acrylic, a urethane or other structural adhesive system designed to bond light gauge steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Alex S. Toback
  • Patent number: 7722280
    Abstract: A hollow-bodied component, which includes at least two die-cast shell elements (1, 2), is suitable in particular for use as a steering component in motor vehicle running-gear assemblies. The hollow-bodied component has a connection zone (5, 6, 18, 19) configured on the shell elements (1, 2) to be interconnected. One connection zone (5) has one first contact area (7) with an essentially U-shaped cross-section that is located on the respective shell element (1) and the other connection zone has at least one strut-type second contact area (8) that engages in the space in the U-shaped first contact area (7) and that is located on the respective other shell element (2). The connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) are joined in a force fit in a cold welding process that uses a contact pressure (F1, F2), whose value is a multiple of the separating force components (Fr) that act on the connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) during operation. A method is provided for producing the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Peter Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20100084227
    Abstract: A brake pad assembly is provided that includes a backing plate including a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and least one opening. Also included are a friction material associated with said backing plate and a shim plate having a first shim surface and a second shim surface, and a tab projecting from the second shim surface. The shim plate is securely fastened to the backing plate by inserting the tab into the opening such that the friction material, when plastic, embeds the tab inside the opening by flowing through the opening, and subsequently hardens around the tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Jiashen Lin, Steve Wang, Abhimanyu Kumar
  • Publication number: 20100074678
    Abstract: A structural joint assembly for a vehicle is provided with a first thermoplastic composite member having a protrusion containing fibrous material. A reinforcement member is provided with a receptacle for mating engagement with the protrusion. A second thermoplastic member is mounted to the first thermoplastic member over the protrusion such that the reinforcement member is provided between the first thermoplastic member and the second thermoplastic member but not adhesively bonded or overmolded therebetween. A method of manufacturing a structural joint assembly and a structural joint assembly manufactured by a method are disclosed. The methods include molding a first thermoplastic member with a protrusion with fibrous material and a second thermoplastic member. A reinforcement member has a receptacle and is mounted to the first thermoplastic member. The receptacle is retained by the protrusion without adhesive bonding or overmolding. The second thermoplastic member is joined to the first thermoplastic member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Jaranson, Kedzie Davis Fernholz, Richard Howard Wykoff
  • Publication number: 20090202294
    Abstract: A method for improving joint strength between a first and second member comprising the steps of: applying a sealant material including a matrix material at least partially encasing rigid components to the first and second members; joining the first and second members upon an application of force that is applied through the use of one or more fasteners; wherein a compressive force is applied to the exterior surface of both the first and second members by the one or more fasteners while the rigid components apply an internal tension force acting opposite of the compression force to the interior surface of both the first and second members proximate to the fastener to form a mechanical lock thereby reducing slippage and generally maintaining the joint in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Zephyros, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Apfel
  • Patent number: 7556273
    Abstract: In a method of making a control arm for a wheel suspension of a motor vehicle a blank of steel material having a tensile strength of at least 800 MPa is shaped, using a sheet metal forming process, into a shell body having a center web and plural flank portions extending from the center web in a same direction. The flank portions are connected by a latticed reinforcement made of plastic, without application of a heat treatment process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Streubel, Armin Zuber, Wolfram Linnig
  • Patent number: 7544042
    Abstract: An impeller assembly includes a molded impeller and an insert within the impeller. The insert includes an unthreaded sleeve and a shoulder adjacent the sleeve for locating the impeller and the insert during manufacturing and installation. Methods of manufacturing and installing are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Eric W. Rush, Donald E. Morgan, S. Duke Snider
  • Publication number: 20090142130
    Abstract: Embodiments of methods and apparatus for providing a double shear joint for bonding in structural applications are disclosed. In one embodiment, a bonded composite joint includes a base having a foot configured to couple to a member, the base including a flange extending outward from the foot. The joint further includes a panel having a core configured between opposing skins, the skins having inner walls proximate the core, the skins extending outward beyond the core on at least one end of the panel to define a recess between the skins, the recess configured to receive the flange. A bonding agent is used to couple the flange to the inner walls of the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Douglas A. Frisch, Marc J. Piehl, Douglas L. Grose, Joseph L. Sweetin, Michael R. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20090016813
    Abstract: A chemically anchorable fastening element (6), includes a holding section (16; 56) for contacting a wall of a borehole (6) and provided with a thread-tapping outer thread (19) and with a load application element (18; 58), a connection section (26; 66) adjoining the holding section (16; 56) and having a smaller radial dimensions than the holding section (16; 56), and an anchoring section (36; 76) adjoining the connection section (26; 66) and likewise having smaller radial dimensions than the holding section (16; 56).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Rosa Maria Gonzalez, Nikolaus Hannoschoeck, Bernhard Sander
  • Publication number: 20080213037
    Abstract: A hollow-bodied component, which includes at least two die-cast shell elements (1, 2), is suitable in particular for use as a steering component in motor vehicle running-gear assemblies. The hollow-bodied component has a connection zone (5, 6, 18, 19) configured on the shell elements (1, 2) to be interconnected. One connection zone (5) has one first contact area (7) with an essentially U-shaped cross-section that is located on the respective shell element (1) and the other connection zone has at least one strut-type second contact area (8) that engages in the space in the U-shaped first contact area (7) and that is located on the respective other shell element (2). The connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) are joined in a force fit in a cold welding process that uses a contact pressure (F1, F2), whose value is a multiple of the separating force components (Fr) that act on the connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) during operation. A method is provided for producing the component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2005
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventor: Peter Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20080101856
    Abstract: Assemblies for coupling together two elements are provided and include a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The second coupling member has a body sized and adapted to be fitted into a hollow space defined by the first coupling member. The coupling members are structured to deflect the body of the second coupling member toward a first wall of the first coupling member as the body is passed into the hollow space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Burrell E. Clawson
  • Patent number: 7357460
    Abstract: An improved connecting system for tensile elements, including a longitudinal tensile element having an end portion and a cross-section thereof, a deformable connecting element; a bracing element, and a tensile axis of applied tensile load along said longitudinal tensile element. The deformable connecting element surrounds the cross section of the longitudinal tensile element and the deformable connecting element is joined to the longitudinal tensile element by means of plastic deformation of said deformable connecting element. The deformable connecting element is connected to the bracing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Raphael Schlanger
  • Patent number: 7314251
    Abstract: A chair comprises a seat, legs for supporting the seat, a backrest frame connected to the legs, and a backrest attached to the backrest frame. The backrest includes a backrest panel and backrest inserts. The backrest panel has slots extending inwardly from peripheral edges of the backrest panel. Each insert is configured for sliding insertion into a corresponding one of the backrest slots. The backrest is secured to the backrest frame by fasteners that pass through the backrest frame and into a corresponding one of the backrest inserts. The backrest inserts may be formed of a sturdy plastic to provide a secure anchor point for the fasteners. This provides a significant advantage for chairs having backrest panels constructed from relatively soft materials, such as pressed wood fiberboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Maxchief Investments, Ltd
    Inventor: Wen-Sheng Lin
  • Patent number: 7182545
    Abstract: This structural element comprises a first (3) and a second (5) metal member, whose regions (23, 29) overlap and a reinforcing piece (7) of plastics material which is overmoulded on the first and second metal members, the reinforcing piece comprising at least a portion (45) for connecting the metal members. The overlap region (23) of the first member (3) comprises at least an anchoring recess (25) . The overlap region (29) of the second member (5) comprises at least a discrete zone (37) set-back from the second metal member (5) for securing the plastics material, and the connecting portion (45) extends into the set-back zone (37) in order to be engaged in the anchoring recess (25). Used, for example, in the construction of front faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Faurecia Bloc Avant
    Inventors: Caroline Riviere, Sebastien Berne
  • Patent number: 7037024
    Abstract: A joint between two components (2, 4), with both components (2, 4) having joint faces (6, 8) which at least partially correspond with one another, which at least partially press against one another in the jointed state. The technical problem, on one hand, of preserving the advantages of an adhesive joint in comparison to mechanical joining systems, but simultaneously not increasing the outlay by the consumer and the outlay for handling the components, is solved in that a matrix (14, 16) is positioned on at least part of at least one of the joint faces (6, 8), multiple capsules (18) are positioned distributed in the matrix (14), a material of a reaction adhesive system is contained in the capsules (18), and at least a part of the capsules (18) at least partially release the material contained in them under external action. Also, a component having at least one joint face and a method for producing an adhesive matrix on a joint face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Fritz Egger GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Martin Steinwender
  • Patent number: 6945727
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for joining structural members. In one embodiment, an apparatus for joining a first member to a second member includes a first part and a second part configured to be engaged with and bonded to the first part. In one aspect of this embodiment, the first part includes a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction different than the first direction, a first recess at least proximate to the first surface, and a second recess at least proximate to the second surface. In another aspect of this embodiment, the second part includes a third surface facing a third direction, a fourth surface facing a fourth direction different than the third direction, a first protuberance at least proximate to the third surface, and a second protuberance at least proximate to the fourth surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David B. Christman, William G. Roeseler
  • Patent number: 6910255
    Abstract: The invention is a plate for holding a friction material in a brake assembly. The plate preferably comprises a contact surface for attaching the friction material to the plate, a second surface opposing the contact surface; and a plurality of retaining structures formed on the contact surface, each retaining structure comprising a projecting member extending from a point between the contact surface and the second surface, so that the member extends outwardly from the contact surface for engagement with the friction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: Ray Arbesman
  • Patent number: 6854918
    Abstract: A first body is bonded with a second body to accommodate a sensor element therein. An annular convexity is formed at either the first body or the second body along with its peripheral end border. On the other of the first body and the second body, an annular concavity is formed to engage with the convexity. The convexity engages with the concavity to form an inner gap and an outer gap. Glue is filled in the inner gap and the outer gap. The peripheral surface of the convexity and the peripheral surface of the concavity, where the glue is bonded, have plural protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Masato Ueno, Yoshifumi Watanabe