Flexible Member Is Joint Component Patents (Class 403/291)
  • Patent number: 7258488
    Abstract: A fluid bearing module has a bearing seat, a bearing, a deflecting member, and an impediment. The bearing seat has a capacity with an opening. The bearing in the capacity has a hollow space for the axis of a rotor to go through, and a lubricant medium is filled in between. The deflecting member protruding from the side near the opening of the bearing seat bends toward the capacity and clips on the rotor axis. The impediment protrudes from the side near the opening of the bearing seat for preventing the deflecting member from bending toward the opening and departing from the rotor. Moreover, the deflecting member and the impediment form a maze to keep the lubricant medium within.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Wun-Chang Shih, Ching-Hsing Huang, Yu-Hsiu Chang
  • Patent number: 7146652
    Abstract: The present invention provides a face guard connector assembly for a sports helmet, such as a football, hockey or lacrosse helmet. The face guard includes a plurality of elongated bar members that intersect to define a grid. The connector assembly removably connects the face guard to the helmet shell. The connector assembly includes a bracket having at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the face guard. The connector assembly further includes a shock absorber assembly that distributes an impact force at the face guard to the shell in an omni-directional manner. The shock absorber assembly includes an elastomeric grommet, a bushing, and a nut, each have an opening. When aligned, the openings collectively define a passageway configured to receive a fastener that secures the connector assembly to the sports helmet. The helmet shell has opposed side portions with each side portion having a mounting aperture that receives an extent of the shock absorber assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Riddell, Inc.
    Inventors: Thad M. Ide, Nelson Kraemer, Ralph J. Infusino
  • Patent number: 7108445
    Abstract: An adapter is for use in cooperation with a post. The adapter includes an upper adapter portion which will be attached to a first part of the post, and a lower adapter portion which will be attached to a second part of the post. The adapter also includes a cylindrically helical spring connecting the upper adapter portion to the lower adapter portion so as to allow relative movement between the upper and lower adapter portions, including either rotational movement in which the post remains upright, or movement in which the first part of the post bends, or both. At least one of the two adapter portions is shaped to receive the helical spring as a screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Henriques
  • Patent number: 7086185
    Abstract: In a device for coupling a tooth onto an adaptor nose with a key, the tooth includes a skirt shrouding the adapter nose beyond the key passage zone and having a configuration connected to a return wall, comprising a bordering ridge. The wall is provided in the width of the skirt and corresponds to the passage and positioning of the key. Proximate the ends of the wall, and in the thickness of the skirt, are provided passage openings for the key devoid of abutting function in operation and ensuring a guiding and stopping function only when the key is inserted or removed. The key comprises two components transversely mobile relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: AFE Metal
    Inventors: Charles Pasqualini, Jean Marc Noailly
  • Patent number: 7004669
    Abstract: A system for clamping two tubular members together in an end-to-end relationship uses a split ring with a V-shaped outer rim that can engage a clamping surface on each member. The split ring has a relaxed closed state where the ends of the ring are adjacent and the outside diameter of the split ring is less than the minimum inside diameter of the members at their ends. The members are clamped when the split ring is spread into an elastically stretched position where the ring rim is pressed tightly against the interior surfaces of the members. Mechanisms are provided for removing the spreader so the split ring will return to the relaxed state, releasing the clamped members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Mark R. Vaughn, Everett S. Hafenrichter, Agapito C. Chapa, Steven M. Harris, Marcus J. Martinez, Roy S. Baty
  • Patent number: 6981816
    Abstract: Two structural components having a rotational symmetry relative to a central longitudinal axis, are releasably connected to each other by a clamping mechanism which engages two interface rings secured to the respective structural component. The clamping mechanism is formed by tensioning elements (5) held together by at least one, preferably two straps (1, 2). A lock (15) with two hinged tensioning levers holds the strap or straps releasably together. For this purpose each strap end is journalled by a journal bolt to the tensioning lever (18, 19). Locking elements (25, 26, 28, 30) hold the tensioning lever (18, 19) in a locked position in the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: EADS Space Transporation GmbH
    Inventor: Walter Huessler
  • Patent number: 6896384
    Abstract: A light-translation system includes a fixed base and translatable mirror mount having mirror-supporting brackets. A first and second arm are pivotally attached in parallel, spaced-apart relation adjacent first ends to the base and adjacent second ends to the mirror mount to form a parallelogram-shaped attachment with the base and mirror mount. The pivotal attachments are formed using flexural pivots, each having a thick portion oriented for achieving minimal angular deviation of the mirror. A first bracket has three pads for supporting one side of the mirror. A second bracket has two surfaces shaped to support an edge of the mirror, each surface positioned opposite a pad. A washer dimensioned to admit a mounting screw is positionable opposite a third pad against an outside wall of the mirror mount to removably retain the mirror without imposing appreciable bending stress thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Alcon RefractiveHorizons, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. McWhirter, David Eskew, David Thair
  • Patent number: 6881037
    Abstract: A two-piece safety mechanism for ceiling-mounted fans comprises a first and second cable. The first cable has a first fastener extending from a first end and a first connector extending from a second end. The first fastener is for operable association with a first fastening mechanism for securing the first cable to a fan. The second cable has a second fastener extending from a first end. The second fastener is for operable association with a second fastening mechanism for securing the second cable to a ceiling support. The second cable also has a second connector extending from a second end, which is releaseably attachable to the first connector to form a continuous cable. The claimed invention also provides for a ceiling fan having the two-piece safety mechanism for retaining the fan in close proximity to the ceiling support if its normal mounting apparatus should fail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: John C Marshall
  • Patent number: 6863465
    Abstract: An assembly comprising two parts to be assembled, a substantially cylindrical peg, a ring, a support comprising pins, means for guiding in rotation the ring relative to the support, and resilient means linked on the one hand to the ring and on the other hand to the support. The assembly further comprises a helical ramp provided on the peripheral surface of the peg and intended to receive the pin, said helical ramp comprising a first portion and a second portion in opposed helical directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Faurecia Interieur Industrie
    Inventor: Christian Brancheriau
  • Patent number: 6846125
    Abstract: This invention relates to a sealing spring fastener, which comprises a U-shaped structure, on which an elastic body has been incorporated. The elastic body has a closed cavity within the U-shaped structure. The sealing spring fastener can form an assembly with an extension of a panel, preferably a plastic panel. The assembly or the fastener by itself can be engaged into the slot of a solid sheet, preferably a metal sheet, in a manner that one side of the sheet is sealed from the other side of the sheet in the vicinity of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Termax Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Walter Smith, Gary John Bobeck
  • Patent number: 6802692
    Abstract: A device for controlling a variable-angle vane for a stator of a turbomachine compressor, the device comprising a link, connection means forming a hinge between a first end of the link and a control ring, fixing means for fixing a second end of the link on a pivot of a vane to be controlled, and pinch means acting transversely relative to a longitudinal midplane of the link to lock the second end of the link in rotation without slack on the pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: SNECMA Moteurs
    Inventor: Michel Bouru
  • Patent number: 6796767
    Abstract: A device for controlling a variable-angle vane for a stator of a turbomachine compressor, the device comprising a link, connection means forming a hinge between a first end of the link and a control ring, and fixing means for fixing a second end of the link on a pivot of a vane to be controlled, a radial recess formed in the vane pivot for receiving the second end of the link, the recess having at least one plane edge inclined relative to a longitudinal midplane of the recess and co-operating with a corresponding inclined edge of the second end of the link, and a clamping cap bearing against the second end of the link and on which the fixing means act, the clamping cap having an inside surface providing plane contact with the outside face of the second end of the link in order to maintain the second end of the link against the vane pivot without slack by means of contact between theinclined edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Snecma Moteurs
    Inventor: Michel Bouru
  • Patent number: 6722808
    Abstract: A connecting apparatus is provided for connecting a number of components, in particular for connecting the enclosure parts of circuit breakers. The connection apparatus includes a connecting element which has a shaft, which passes through through-openings which are aligned with one another in the connection, having an insertion end and having a holding end opposite it. In order to achieve a turning or twisting distance which is as short as possible when the connecting element is twisted in order to brace the components while avoiding weakening of the material, the connecting element includes two fixing lugs at the insertion end. These lugs are bent in the form of a circular arc in an initial state and are bent out radially in the mounting state. Alternatively, two fixing lugs which extend like a fork in the shaft longitudinal direction in an initial state and which are bent out radially in the mounting state are provided at the insertion end of the connecting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Bernhard Franz, Wolfgang Leitl, Josef Schmid
  • Patent number: 6709238
    Abstract: A two-piece safety mechanism for ceiling-mounted fans comprises a first and second cable. The first cable has a first fastener extending from a first end and a first connector extending from a second end. The first fastener is for operable association with a first fastening mechanism for securing the first cable to a fan. The second cable has a second fastener extending from a first end. The second fastener is for operable association with a second fastening mechanism for securing the second cable to a ceiling support. The second cable also has a second connector extending from a second end, which is releaseably attachable to the first connector to form a continuous cable. The claimed invention also provides for a ceiling fan having the two-piece safety mechanism for retaining the fan in close proximity to the ceiling support if its normal mounting apparatus should fail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: John C. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6709183
    Abstract: A joint having a metal or plastic core and a metal or plastic outer shell. The core has two studs extending in a direction of an axis of rotation and arranged vertically at 180° from each other. The outer shell consists of two half shells, each having a reinforcing segment. A bore with a bore base is provided on each reinforcing segment. Two cup-shaped elastomeric pads are located between the core and the outer shell and are insulated from one another. The elastomeric pads surround the studs which penetrate the bore in the reinforcing segments. A ratio of the stud diameter to the pad thickness is specified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Phoenix AG
    Inventors: Rüdiger Meyer, Jörg Frohn
  • Patent number: 6688803
    Abstract: A connection assembly of first and second elements. The first element has a receiving opening through which the second element is passed and penetrates the first element. The first element is connected to the second element at one or more positions in the region of their intersection. At least one of the first and second elements have ridges arranged to lie adjacent the opposing elements. A plurality of the elongate elements can be interconnected in a plurality of connection assemblies to form a grid structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Royal Packaging Industries Van Leer N.V.
    Inventors: Maurice Gerardus Maria Van Giezen, Paul Martens
  • Patent number: 6688846
    Abstract: A flexible rod (20) is articulated at a first end to a control ring (30) and is fixed at a second end to a pivot of a blade (10) that is to be controlled. At this second end, it is held so that it can rotate without play on the blade pivot by a holding device (44; 52; 54). The articulation device comprise a pivot (24) passing through a first orifice (22) pierced in this first end and engaged in a radial housing (28) of the control ring, the pivot being held in position by a locking ring (34) which has openings (36) for the passage of this pivot and which slides on this control ring. The fixing device comprise a fixing screw (40) passing through a second orifice (38) pierced in the second end of the rod and introduced into a hole (42) of the pivot of the blade that is to be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Snecma Moteurs
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Caubet, Antoine Jean, Jacky Naudet, Gabrijel Radeljak, Sébastien Riccioz
  • Publication number: 20030235460
    Abstract: A joint member for interconnecting a first member to a second member having an input member, an output member; and a connecting assembly. The connecting assembly may include a plurality of beam member and/or a U-shaped member assembly and allows one translational degree of freedom between the connecting parts. Each of these joints provides very high degree of compliance in the desired direction of motion and very high stiffness in other directions (off-axis), without experiencing high stress concentrations commonly found in prior art designs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: Yong-Mo Moon, Sridhar Kota
  • Patent number: 6666612
    Abstract: A pivot has identical first and second members partially engaged in each other and mobile in rotation relative to each other about a common axis, against the action of at least two return leaf springs each having first and second ends anchored in the first and second parts, respectively, by being wedged inside them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignees: Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales, Be System Etudes Cao Realisations
    Inventors: Eric Pascal Jean Lorigny, Eric Lionel Meizel
  • Patent number: 6648542
    Abstract: This invention relates to a sealing spring fastener, which comprises a U-shaped structure, on which an elastic body has been incorporated. The elastic body has a closed cavity within the U-shaped structure. The sealing spring fastener can form an assembly with an extension of a panel, preferably a plastic panel. The assembly or the fastener by itself can be engaged into the slot of a solid sheet, preferably a metal sheet, in a manner that one side of the sheet is sealed from the other side of the sheet in the vicinity of the slot. This invention also relates to vehicles having parts connected with the above sealing spring fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Termax Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Walter Smith, Gary John Bobeck
  • Publication number: 20030164055
    Abstract: The invention discloses an elongate spliced member, particularly a tooth rack for a rapier loom, and a method for making same. The spliced member includes two elongate member segments joined at respective ends and having at least one through aperture positioned laterally from a respective first side to a second side adjacent the joined ends. An elongate recess is formed on opposed surfaces of the member segments, and each recess surrounds a respective aperture and communicates with the respective joined end of the segments. A carbon fiber strand is wound alternately through the aperture in each of the segments to splice the segments together end-to-end. The spliced member has the functional characteristics equivalent to an integrally-formed member of the same length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: George W. Davis
  • Patent number: 6588968
    Abstract: Two structural components are releasably connected to each other by a clamping mechanism (CM) which engages two interface rings (9, 10) secured to the respective structural component. The clamping mechanism is formed by tensioning elements (5) held together by at least one, preferably two tensioning members such as straps (1, 2). A lock (15) with two hinged tensioning levers (18, 19) hinged at (21) to a mounting (17), holds the tensioning strap or straps releasably together. For this purpose each strap end is journalled by a journal bolt (3, 4) to the respective tensioning lever (18, 19). Locking elements (25, 26, 28, 30) hold the tensioning levers (18, 19) in a locked position. An electromagnetic drive or the like is used to unlock the tension levers for releasing the tensioning strap or straps in a controlled manner without completely opening the ring formed by the clamping mechanism. The position of the journal bolt (3, 4) relative to its tensioning lever (18, 19) is adjustable by an adjustment screw (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Astrium GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Huessler, Gerd Gloyer
  • Patent number: 6585445
    Abstract: This application describes the design of the split-tube flexure, a unique precision revolute joint that exhibits a considerably larger range of motion and significantly better multi-axis revolute joint characteristics than a conventional flexure. The development of this joint enables the implementation of spatially-loaded revolute joint-based precision machines with well-behaved kinematic and dynamic characteristics and without the backlash and stick-slip behavior that would otherwise prevent precision machine control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Vanderbilt University
    Inventors: Michael Goldfarb, John E. Speich
  • Patent number: 6581421
    Abstract: A security system for connecting a cable to consumer articles, such as cameras, and the like, to prevent unauthorized removal of the articles from a predetermined area while being displayed in retail establishments on open shelves. The system in its most basic form comprises a device including a security cable and a threaded fastener. The security cable is passed through the threaded fastener, and then the threaded fastener is attached into the body of the article. The threaded fastener head has a special configuration and cannot be removed without a special key, thereby preventing the unauthorized removal of the secured property. The threaded fastener also includes a circular borehole through the entire length of the threaded fastener to allow the cable to pass through the opening, and a step is provided inside the borehole to stop the cable from coming off the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventors: James Chmela, John Chmela
  • Patent number: 6557432
    Abstract: A controlled relative motion system comprising a base support, a manipulable support, a group of link end constrainers each having a first portion movably connected to a second portion thereof so that ends of the first and second portions can be selectively separated from one another in a selected direction so as to have a selected distance therebetween, and two groups of pivoting links. With at least four link end constrainers in the group thereof, the first group of pivoting links has corresponding links each rotatably coupled to force imparting means or to the base support so as to be rotatable about a corresponding base link axis where each of said base link axes extend into regions between adjacent ones of said first group of pivoting links into which regions said base link axes of said adjacent ones also extend, and each coupled to a first portion end of a corresponding one of the group of link end constrainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Ross-Hime Designs, Incorporated
    Inventor: Mark E. Rosheim
  • Patent number: 6527471
    Abstract: This invention relates to a sealing spring fastener, which comprises a U-shaped structure, on which an elastic body has been incorporated. The elastic body has a closed cavity within the U-shaped structure. The sealing spring fastener can form an assembly with an extension of a panel, preferably a plastic panel. The assembly or the fastener by itself can be engaged into the slot of a solid sheet, preferably a metal sheet, in a manner that one side of the sheet is sealed from the other side of the sheet in the vicinity of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Termax Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Walter Smith, Gary John Bobeck
  • Patent number: 6516957
    Abstract: A curtain or drapery rod assembly has adjacent elongate rod sections joined end to end by a resilient connector for installation in angularly disposed relation around a corner between adjacent flat walls, such as in bay windows and corners of a room. In a preferred embodiment, the connector is a helical coiled spring having a first end connected in a first tubular rod section open end, an opposed second end connected in a second tubular rod section open end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the rod sections that forms a smooth curved transition adjacent to an angular corner when the first and second rod sections are supported in angularly opposed facing relation on respective first and second flat walls adjoining the angular corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventor: Greg Harkinson
  • Patent number: 6491626
    Abstract: An articulator for positioning a tool during a surgical procedure, comprising: a longitudinally extending body; a plurality of transverse grooves extending inwardly from opposite lateral sides of the longitudinally extending body; and a plurality of recesses extending inwardly from the opposite lateral sides of the longitudinally extending body, the plurality of recesses defining an articulation control wire lumen and a tool control wire lumen, and wherein the tool control lumen is disposed collinear with a neutral bending axis of the articulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: NuVasive
    Inventors: Corbett W. Stone, David G. Matsuura, Walter D. Gillespie, James F. Marino
  • Patent number: 6491468
    Abstract: A foam backed precured joint seal comprising a strip of precured elastomer wider than the joint to be sealed, the strip centrally adhered along its length to an elongated foam backing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Sealex, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Hagen
  • Patent number: 6471438
    Abstract: Flexible loop assemblies for use variously as key chains, paper ring binders, or as jewelry and a connector for use in such loop assemblies. The loop assemblies comprise a flexible band and a connector. The connector includes respective connector halves each having a bore into which respective mating plugs at opposite ends of the band closely fit. Each of the bores and plugs include an annular groove which radially aligns with the annular groove of the mating plug or bore. Adhesive applied to the plugs and to the bores fills the respective annular grooves and hardens to form respective lock rings which mechanically in addition to adhesively couple the connector halves to the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: F. Dale Faris
  • Publication number: 20020136594
    Abstract: Flexible loop assemblies for use variously as key chains, paper ring binders, or as jewelry and a connector for use in such loop assemblies. The loop assemblies comprise a flexible band and a connector. The connector includes respective connector halves each having a bore into which respective mating plugs at opposite ends of the band closely fit. Each of the bores and plugs include an annular groove which radially aligns with the annular groove of the mating plug or bore. Adhesive applied to the plugs and to the bores fills the respective annular grooves and hardens to form respective lock rings which mechanically in addition to adhesively couple the connector halves to the band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: F. Dale Faris
  • Patent number: 6365252
    Abstract: A flexural pivot assembly which reduces the number of component parts to five and reduces the number of operations in the manufacturing process is disclosed. The component parts include two sleeves, one inner flexure, one outer flexure, and one slotted tubular core that may be coated with a suitable bonding material. The core has a slotted end and an unslotted end and includes two pairs of diametrically opposed flexure slots each having substantially the same length as a side of a flexure so that the interlocked flexures can slide into the slotted end of the tubular core until they abut an end of the flexure slots and, at the same time, be positioned flush with the slotted end. The core further includes a pair of diametrically opposed travel slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Lucas Aerospace Power Transmission
    Inventors: Michael Angelo Ortiz, Daniel Joseph Salerno, Richard Joseph Donegan
  • Patent number: 6328047
    Abstract: A position adjustment member of a sunshade includes two connecting holders and an adjusting part. The connecting holders are connected to a lower end of an upper part of a shank and an upper end of lower part of a shank of the sunshade respectively. The connecting holders each has a nut fixed thereto. The adjusting part has a covering part, a metallic part and two bolts. The bolts are connected to two ends of the covering part. The covering part is made of plastic or rubber. The metallic part has plasticity and is received in the covering part. The bolts are screwed into a respective one of the nuts. The adjustment part is bent for the sunshade to be adjusted to an appropriate position relative to the sun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Chorng-Cheng Lee
  • Publication number: 20010036251
    Abstract: Joining device between two covers having a relative mobility, surrounding two units comprising between them mechanical, electrical, fluid and similar connecting means, passing into apertures arranged in the covers. The device comprises a flexible hollow element that is shaped so as to surround the connecting means like a sheath, the two ends of which are joined to the apertures of the covers. The two covers are generally parallelepipedal in shape and are arranged at approximately right angles to one another. At least one of the two ends of the element in sheath form is shaped so as to be joined to the corresponding cover in at least two contiguous sides of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventors: Francis Guerit, Christian LeBlach, Francois Lenfant, Jean-Michel Marteau
  • Patent number: 6308478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device enabling reinforced concrete elements (1, 2) to be linked by means of metal cables, certain portions of which are inserted into the just made concrete (1) while the cable portions which are not inserted protrude into the enclosure formed by the second contiguous concrete element (2). The first concrete element (1) presents a reinforcement which terminates in the area of contact with the second concrete element (2). In parallel or extension to said reinforcement of the first concrete element, pieces of metal cable (4) are inserted so as to provide either spaces for locating the cable free ends in the first concrete element, or passages in the enclosure formed by said first concrete element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Pfeifer Holding GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Matthias Richard Kintscher, Ralf Avak
  • Patent number: 6230447
    Abstract: A concrete lifting anchor having a pair of positioning elements at respective opposite ends of a steel rod, a threaded coupler extending from one end of the rod, and a tubular protector tightly fitted over the coupler, with a removable filler material inside the tubular protector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventors: George E. Pribyl, Roger G. Kieley
  • Patent number: 6213673
    Abstract: A connecting device enabling spring-suspended connection of a shaft or a guiding bar (3) to a hand-operated vibrating plate which has two pairs arranged at a fixed distance from each other in the direction of a vertical pivotal axis (8), each pair has a first connecting element in the form of a rubber buffer (5) and a second connecting element in the form of a ring (4a) surrounding the rubber buffer (5) substantially free of play and sliding coaxially in relation to the pivotal axis (8). One connecting element (5) of each pair (4a, 5) is fastened to the upper section (1a) and the other connecting element (4a) is fastened to the shaft of guiding bar (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Wacker-Werke GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Norbert Jungwirth, Bülent Kocas
  • Patent number: 6146044
    Abstract: A rotary flexure is designed to exhibit very high radial and axial stiffness and to exhibit virtually no movement in its center of rotation. The flexure, which is formed from a single billet of material, includes an outer ring from which three thin flexure blades extend. The flexure blades extend toward the centerpoint of the rotary flexure, where they join to form a centerpiece. Three lobes also join at the centerpiece, one between each pair of flexure blades. The lobes extend toward the outer ring, and are free to rotate about the pivot axis with respect to the outer ring and the flexure blades. During rotation, the pivot axis exhibits virtually no movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Robert John Calvet
  • Patent number: 6105451
    Abstract: A hollow cylinder is fastened at its outer circumference when the cylindrical interior jacket is to be utilized for a treatment process. To produce this fastening, provision is made according to the invention for surrounding the end of the hollow cylinder by an elastic ring, said ring being pressed against the outer circumference of the hollow cylinder by a clamping disk that is annular and surrounds the hollow cylinder, said disk in turn being nonrotatably connected with the drive unit. The drive unit can then consist exclusively of a bearing ring connected by a gear at its outer circumference with a drive pinion of a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Fleissner GmbH & Co., Maschinenfabrik
    Inventor: Gerold Fleissner
  • Patent number: 6102607
    Abstract: A device for assembling prefabricated concrete parts has a cable loop anchored at one end to the prefabricated concrete part. The other loop-like end cooperates with a retaining means provided at the front face of the prefabricated concrete part to elastically bend the cable loop approximately at right angle during the fabrication of the prefabricated concrete part, and to release it for assembling. An elongated, U-shaped box (1) having a substantially uniform cross-section is provided as retaining means. The bottom (2) of the box has one or several passages (4) for the cable loop (5) and means arranged in the area of the passages (4) to retain the cable loop (5) perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the box (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Pfeifer Holding GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Matthias Richard Kintscher
  • Patent number: 6098496
    Abstract: A control device for an automobile vehicle seat adjustment element including a control element connected to the adjustment element by a connecting rod. The rod is attached to one of the elements by a clamp made of a material more deformable than the material of the rod, the claim including a body and a cover between which the rod is inserted, the rod including protuberances which anchor into the material of the clamp by deforming this material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Bertrand Faure Equipements S.A.
    Inventor: Olivier Rougnon-Glasson
  • Patent number: 6061873
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a platform having a flank panel connected pivotally to a lateral margin of the seat or platform by means of a hinge device, wherein the hinge device comprises at least two mountings and a moulding comprising an elongate flexible web bridging mounting formation which are releasable securable on the mountings; wherein one of the mountings is provided on or secured to the lateral margin of the platform and the other of the mounting is provided on or secured to a margin of the flank panel; so that the web of the moulding provides a flexible bridge between the platform and flank panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Mangar International Limited
    Inventor: Timothy S Fry
  • Patent number: 6039498
    Abstract: A security assembly for an article to be monitored. The security assembly has a plate assembly with a first surface facing in a first direction for placement against one surface on an article to be monitored and a second surface facing transversely to the first direction for placement against another surface on an article to be monitored. A fastener maintains the security assembly operatively connected to an article to be monitored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Leyden, Terrance Surma
  • Patent number: 6027277
    Abstract: A security assembly for an article to be monitored, which security assembly includes a housing to be secured to a first surface facing in a first direction on an article to be monitored, a stabilizing element defining a shoulder to abut to a surface on the article to be monitored that faces transversely to the first direction, and at least one fastener that maintains the housing and stabilizing element in an operative position on an article to be monitored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Leyden, Terrance Surma
  • Patent number: 6010273
    Abstract: A suspension system (10) for mid-span connection of a paravane (P) or other article to a cable (C1) of a towed cable array (A) includes first and second hanger assemblies (20a,20b) connected to the cable (C1) in an axially spaced relationship. In particular, the hanger assemblies (20a,20b) are connected respectively to first and second bulbous cable regions. The bulbous cable regions are formed on the cable using inner insert elements (40), a first set of preformed helical rods (22), outer insert elements (42) positioned over the first set of helical rods (22) in the region of the inner insert elements (40), and an outer set of preformed helical rods (24). Each hanger assembly (20a,20b) includes a housing (30a,30b) and a rotatable collar (52a,52b) connected to the housing. An attachment member (80a,80b) is pivotally connected to the collar and rotates therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: PMI Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan R. Metzler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6007718
    Abstract: A holding device for a filter element is disclosed. More particularly, the holding device includes a body having upper and lower surfaces. The lower surface is sized and shaped so as to engage an end of an associated filter element. The holding device also includes a compressible member, which is positioned on the upper surface of the body, and a connecting mechanism for directly and movably connecting the body to a body of at least one other identical holding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: H-Tech
    Inventor: Walter Booth
  • Patent number: 6000984
    Abstract: The element to be protected hereby is an element consisting of a pull string (2), chain, wire or the like having at each end a coupling device (3) which may be coupled onto a coupling stud (6). The element is characterised in that the string (2), the chain, etc., is mounted so high on the coupling device (3) that a momentum influences the coupling device (3) that twists the coupling device (3) off the coupling stud (6) despite the frictional force therebetween when the element is pulled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: INTERLEGO AG
    Inventor: Vicki Sisse Degner
  • Patent number: 5961244
    Abstract: An expansion-joint system (48) for forming a seal between a steam turbine and a condenser includes an expansion-joint belt (50, 51) having a width-wise cross-sectional shape with first and second knobs (62, 64) at respective first and second opposite ends (72, 74) of a thinner elongated web (70). The knobs are formed by an abrupt bulge (66, 68) on only a first opposite side, while each of knob portions (76) of a second opposite side of the belt, opposite the bulge, forms a substantially straight line with a lead-in portion (80) from the elongated web. The knob portion and the lead-in portion of the second side are parallel with a symmetrical center (57) of fabric layers (56) in the belt. In one embodiment the substantially straight line formed by the knob portion and lead-in portion of the second side continues over a distance of approximately at least twice the length of the bulge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: The Atlantic Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. Hahn
  • Patent number: 5954448
    Abstract: A video printed circuit board is mounted on a slotted holder which closely receives the neck of a CRT and has a plurality of circumferentially-diverged apertures which receive projections extending from a circumscribing elastic band that compresses the holder, the projections frictionally engaging the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae-Soo Shim
  • Patent number: 5904439
    Abstract: A field limitation joint has a core (101) of closed cell synthetic elastomer and aluminum L-section side members (102). The core is adhered to the side members by double sided adhesive strip (103) of the type having reinforcing filaments (104) running along the length of the strip. The core is pre-compressed and held in compression by tapes (105, 106). These are fabric reinforced and incorporate a central strip (107) of polymer film rendering them non-adhesive along their center. Also they have perforations (108, 109) along their length at the edge of the strip (107). The adhesive edges (110) of the tape (105) are adhered to the outside of upright limbs (111) of the side members and pass over the top of the side members. The perforations (108) run along the top edge of the side members. The other tape (106) extends between the other limbs (112) of the side members on their undersides, again with the non-adhesive strip preventing adhesion to the core (101).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Seamus Michael Devlin