Laterally Inserted Section Patents (Class 403/294)
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Patent number: 6718709Abstract: A light-weight, portable display system which includes plural, hollow, plastic panels having uniquely contoured corners. The panels may be of flat or curved configuration. Most of the plastic panels are fabricated to present smooth front and rear faces. However, some panels are made with at least one slotted face for supporting shelves therein. Straight plastic connector components are designed to accept the corners of the panels, thereby connecting the panels in a manner to form a display area. Hinged plastic connectors are provided so that adjacent panels may be arranged at angles ranging from ninety to one hundred eighty degrees.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventors: Tim Koutras, Saro Sarkisyan, Veram Badangiz, Paul Edmunds
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Patent number: 6692181Abstract: A connecting apparatus is provided for connecting a number of components, in particular for connecting the enclosure parts of circuit breakers. It includes a connecting element which has a shaft which passes through through-openings which are aligned with one another in the connection of the components, having an insertion end and having a holding end opposite it. In order to achieve firstly centering and secondly a turning or twisting distance which is as short as possible when the connecting element is twisted in order to brace the components, a first mounting depression, which holds the holding end and is aligned with the through-openings, as a centering cone, with the holding end being conical, forms a mating surface which corresponds with the centering cone.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Bernhard Franz, Wolfgang Leitl, Josef Schmid
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Patent number: 6675979Abstract: A furniture assembly system utilizes upright members having a pair of protruding hook portions that cooperate with a similar pair of hook portions of another upright member and mutually interconnect through slots in a shelf to hold the shelf in place. A plug inserts into an aperture formed by the interconnecting hook portions to hold the upright members in place and secondarily to provide further support to the shelf.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Inventor: Gregory Albert Taylor
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Patent number: 6668514Abstract: An apparatus for connecting adjacent panels includes a first panel and a second panel. Each panel has a connectable edge adapted for connection to a connectable edge of an adjacent panel. At least one first panel interface is disposed on the first panel and at least one second panel interface is disposed on the second panel. Each panel interface is positioned on a surface of the respective panel near the respective connectable edge. First and second interlocking elements are disposed on the respective connectable edges of the panels. The apparatus also includes at least one connector with a base and first and second engaging parts projecting from the base. To connect the panels, the interlocking elements of the connectable edges are interlocked with one another. The connector is mounted to the first and second panels such that the base traverses the connectable edges.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Rubbermaid IncorporatedInventor: Erik L. Skov
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Patent number: 6669396Abstract: In a joint between two wooden structural members (2 and 3) there is inserted a joint plate (4), whose foot part (5) is joined abuttingly to the wooden structural member (2) by screws (7). The joint plate (4) is pushed into a slot (8) of the wooden structural member (3), whereupon connecting elements (1) are inserted in appropriate number through the wooden structural member (3) and the joint plate (4). Such a connecting element is provided at one of its ends with a boring part (11) and at its other end with a tool drive (12). The worked-off material is received by a portion (14) of smaller cross section and appropriate flutes (13). In addition, an axially secure relationship after setting is achieved with a thread (15) at one end of the connecting element. After it has been finally set, the connecting element (1) is seated in an exact fit as the fixation between the joint plate (4) and the wooden structural member (3) in its self-drilled hole.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: SFS Industrie Holding AGInventor: Paul Mattle
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Patent number: 6666613Abstract: A lamp rod comprises a retaining seat and an inserting rod. A wire connecting box has a via hole at a periphery thereof. A lateral side of the retaining seat extends with an inserting portion exactly passing through the via hole of the wire connecting box. A positioning ring is positioned at an interior of the wire connecting box for locking the inserting portion. One end of the retaining seat far away from the wire connecting box has two sliding grooves. One end of the inserting rod coupled to the retaining seat is installed with an inserting seat. Two sides of the inserting seat have stepped guide blocks. The guide blocks are exactly engaged with the two sliding grooves of the retaining seat. Thereby, in transfer and storage, the inserting rod can be pulled out from the wire connecting box so as to occupy a smaller space.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Inventor: Wen-Chang Wu
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Publication number: 20030231925Abstract: A visual inspection coupler adapted for connecting two members in longitudinal direction, includes a female connector fixedly fastened to a transverse side of one of the two members to be connected, the female connector having at least one transversely extended coupling groove, and a male connector fixedly fastened to a transverse side of the other of the two members to be connected, the male connector having at least one transversely extended coupling rib adapted for engaging into the at least one coupling groove of the female connector. The engagement between the at least one coupling groove and the at least one coupling rib enables the worker to inspect the connection of the two members visually.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2002Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventor: Ching-Cheng Chen
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Publication number: 20030217742Abstract: A stone slab with fasteners has two chambers respectively defined at two sides thereof. Two fasteners are respectively secured in the chambers. The fasteners each have a central portion. A first wing is formed at a first end of the central portion, and perpendicular to the central portion. The first wing has a hole defined therethrough. A second wing is formed at a second end of the central portion, perpendicular to the central portion, and extending oppositely to the first wing. The second wing has two straight edges respectively formed at a top and a bottom thereof, and two arcuate hooks respectively extending inwards from the straight edges. The second wings of the fasteners are received in the respective chambers. Whereby, a plurality of stone slabs can be installed on a frame on a wall by screws inserted through the holes.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventor: Hsiu-Chuan Chien
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Patent number: 6652191Abstract: A self-adjusting, water pressure-responsive weight belt assembly for use in diving is disclosed. The assembly includes a tensioning portion comprising a housing and a reciprocating member reciprocatingly disposed within the housing. The housing comprises a cover and a hollow base to which one end of a flexible belt portion is attached. An end of the reciprocating member is situated external of the housing by being disposed in a position partially outside of the reciprocating member housing cover through a slot defined therein. The other end of the flexible belt portion is attached to one end of the reciprocating member. An air space of variable volume exists within the housing and is defined by the inner walls of the reciprocating member housing base and an end wall of the reciprocating member. The reciprocating member moves within the housing, thereby adjusting the fit of the assembly on the diver in response to changes in water pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Thomas Traian Moga
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Patent number: 6644887Abstract: A device for connecting a towed pipe to a towing apparatus, for example a percussion boring machine or a towing head, comprises an adapter sleeve adapted to the towing apparatus and a towed pipe of which the connecting end is, for example, provided with longitudinal slits and accordingly can be changed in diameter, and locking means by which the adapter sleeve and the towed pipe can be connected together in a sufficiently tension-resistant manner.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2001Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Tracto-Technik Paul Schmidt SpezialmaschinenInventor: Alfons Hesse
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Patent number: 6634511Abstract: A modular shelving system includes structural shelving components and connector shelving components for joining the structural shelving components together in a variety of configurations. Each structural shelving component has a face surface and elongated edge surfaces. A plurality of apertures are formed extending along the edge surfaces of the structural shelving component. A center-to-center distance between adjacent apertures is X. A distance between the centers of the apertures and the face surface is X/2. A distance between an end one of the apertures and an end of the edge surface is X/2. Each connector shelving component has a plurality of projections extending therefrom. A center-to-center distance between adjacent projections is X.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Mark J. Manghera
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Patent number: 6634077Abstract: A connector and connection system useful in the building and construction industries for joining two substantially planar composite fiber panels together in which at least a part of the connecting device also acts as a guiding means allowing the two panels to be joined together in alignment with one another. The connector and connection system is especially useful for joining a plurality of compressed straw building panels to form a straight wall, partition or similar structure in substantially the same plane, said structure being constructed without having any external fittings or without having to mask or otherwise hide any fasteners, fittings or the like across the joint between the panels.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Affordable Building SystemsInventor: Derek John Layfield
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Publication number: 20030108381Abstract: A connector for joining two pieces of sheet metal together end-to-end. A second wall and a first wall define a first channel therebetween, into which a ledge extends, and which lockingly receives one piece of sheet metal, by virtue of at least one reverse button lock on a raw free end of the one piece of sheet metal snapingly engaging against the ledge. A third wall terminates in a free edge that is folded onto itself, and together with the first wall, defines a second channel therebetween that lockingly receives the other piece of sheet metal, by virtue of at least one reverse button lock on a raw free end of the other piece of sheet metal snapingly engaging against the folded free edge of the third wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2001Publication date: June 12, 2003Inventors: Timothy E. Walsh, Thomas M. Howard
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Patent number: 6568651Abstract: A concrete form system for receiving concrete includes a plurality of interlocking form panels having opposite side ends, and which capable of being selectively arranged in series as a wall of a form configured to receive concrete. A plurality of attachments are each disposed between adjacent form panels, and vertically engage the side ends of adjacent form panels to interlock the side ends of the adjacent form panels to resist lateral separation of the adjacent form panels. The attachments an include one or more channels or engagement walls, and an insert received withing the channels or engaging the engagement walls. Ties or brackets can extend between parallel, spaced-apart form panels to maintain a predetermined, spaced-apart distance. A gauge bar can moveably extend into the form to indicate a fill level.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: John Reid InvestmentsInventor: John A. Reid
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Patent number: 6554526Abstract: A fastening device for interconnecting two parts, comprising a longitudinally variable bolt designed to be inserted through a hole in a first part and engage the edge of an opening in a second part. The bolt is further configured to rotate about an axis that runs generally transversely across the longitudinal axis of the bolt, using the edge of the opening in the second part as a sliding track. The bolt defines a spring configuration intermediary of its ends so that the bolt may be compressed in the longitudinal direction and resumes its original length when it is released. The bolt is provided with grooves at opposing ends, which grooves extend generally transversely across the longitudinal axis of the bolt and are designed to engage the edge of the opening in the second part at diametrically opposed locations.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Laerdal Medical ASInventor: Einar Egelandsdal
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Patent number: 6543958Abstract: A connection structure is designed to connect the blade and the handle of a gardening implement and is formed of a connection rod, a control member, a locating head, and two steel balls movably contained in the recess of the control member and the locating holes of the locating head. As the control member is rotated to locate the connection rod which is fastened to the blade, the steel balls are forced by the control member in motion into the locating holes of the locating head. The blade and the handle are separated by rotating the control member in such a manner that the steel balls are forced back into the recess of the control member.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Ho Cheng Garden Tools Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yao-Chung Huang
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Patent number: 6540226Abstract: An upstream module has a document transport path portion, and a downstream module has a document transport path portion. The modules are aligned such that a waterfall effect is created from the document path portion of the upstream module to the document path portion of the downstream module.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2000Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: NCR CorporationInventors: Owen H. Wilson, Richard A. Fairey
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Publication number: 20030059253Abstract: A connector key for joining spacer member ends in multi-pane window units. A connector key and methods for joining spacer member ends are provided. The connector key can include a top central depression, side walls having top gaps, side shoulders having channels and recesses, all providing opportunity for sealant to flow from the central depression over the side regions of the connector key. Connector keys can also have holes through the bottom floor of the central depression to the bottom of a connector key and further through bottom channels provided in the connector key. Methods are provided which include sliding a spacer member over each end of the connector key up to a central flange. Holes may be punched through the spacer material, preferably forming jagged portions which secure the spacer members to the connecting key. Sealant may be injected through the punched holes, and through the through holes in the connector key central depression floor.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2001Publication date: March 27, 2003Inventors: Paul Trpkovski, Benjamin J. Zurn
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Patent number: 6530338Abstract: A flag set may comprise a pole (10) and a plurality of flag units (20a, 20b) that can be attached to the pole (10) at different angles with respect to the pole (10). A support arm (30) may hold the top edges of the plurality of flag units (20a, 20b). An attachment part (40) is provided at the top of the pole (10) and may include attachment slits (47) and attachment grooves (48) that open upward so that the support arm (30) can be inserted from the top. A fastening part (50) anchors the support arm (30) to the attachment slits (47) and attachment grooves (48). The fastening part (50) is attached to the attachment part (40) after the support arm (30) is inserted into the attachment slits (47) and attachment grooves (48) to lock these parts together.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2001Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Inventors: Takuji Okumura, Takuya Okumura
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Patent number: 6517277Abstract: An expansion or crack joint assembly (32) utilizes a coupler (20) with or without a bottom sheet (34) to join adjacent roadway concrete slabs (86, 90) formed separately initially or continuously cast and later separated by a saw cut, which induces cracking to form a crack joint. The coupler (20) includes a casing (22), an internal component (24,25,62,65), and outer sleeve (26), and end caps (28,30). The casing (22) defines an internal chamber (40) which receives the internal component (24,25,62,65) therein. The sleeve (26) and end caps (28,30) fit over the casing (22). The casing (22) and sleeve (26) transmit loads between the concrete slabs (86,90) while the sleeve (26) and end caps (86,90) operate to reduce stress concentrations. The bottom sheet (34) inhibits water from entering the expansion or crack joint assembly (32) from below, if used, and prevents pumping.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Kansas State University Research FoundationInventors: Kuo-Kuang Hu, Philip G. Kirmser
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Publication number: 20030016992Abstract: A connector and connection system useful in the building and construction industries for joining two substantially planar composite fiber panels together in which at least a part of the connecting device also acts as a guiding means allowing the two panels to be joined together in alignment with one another. The connector and connection system is especially useful for joining a plurality of compressed straw building panels to form a straight wall, partition or similar structure in substantially the same plane, said structure being constructed without having any external fittings or without having to mask or otherwise hide any fasteners, fittings or the like across the joint between the panels.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2002Publication date: January 23, 2003Inventor: Derek John Layfield
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Patent number: 6493917Abstract: Organizational system for forming customized compartments for compact spaces. A plastic type sheet has pre-perforations formed thereon, for allowing different sized walls and/or floors to be separated therefrom. The sheet can be a thin plastic having side indentations along its edges. Corner connectors can be originally supplied where individual connectors each have four prong prongs/tabs of flat triangular shapes arranged approximately ninety degrees from one another in a cross-shape. Walls/floors can be attached to one another by inserting the prongs/tabs into the side indentations of other walls/floors. The prongs/tabs can separated from the others depending on whether an installer wishes to use a connector to attach two walls/floors together, three walls/floors together or four walls/floors together. When the system is used to make divider walls, other portions can be attached to make a floor for the walls.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Inventor: Susan Sunka
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Patent number: 6488438Abstract: A leveling fastener for connecting and aligning boards includes an elongated support member having first and second support portions with first and second coplanar upper surfaces, a connecting portion that extends upward from the support member, and an elongated fastening component that extends from the connecting portion and that has a pointed end that can be driven into a board, thereby securing the leveling fastener to the board. In use, the first coplanar upper surface of the leveling fastener is positioned flush against a first bottom surface of a board, the fastening component is driven into a first side surface of the board, and a second bottom surface of a second board is positioned flush against the second coplanar upper surface of the fastener. Another aspect of the invention relates to the leveling fastener in combination with a device for driving the leveling fastener into a board.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Inventor: Glenn J. Tebo
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Publication number: 20020134123Abstract: A seat device of a key ring comprises a seat. The seat has an oblong shape, and an interior of the seat having a cruciform recess. One end of the sliding groove is formed with an opening and a movable opening can be formed through a control device. A movable track is formed interior the recess and near one end thereof for being connected to key rings. Thereby, the movable opening is installed at the middle portion of the movable track so that the key rings can be taken out easily and the user may take out any key ring from the opening at the middle portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: September 26, 2002Inventor: Yu-Hwei Huang
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Patent number: 6422780Abstract: A structure for connecting a tool with a grip, including an insertion rod, an outer sheath and a fastening ring. The insertion rod is inserted in the outer sheath. One side of the insertion rod has a projecting block formed with a transverse recess. The outer sheath is formed with a split in which the projecting block of the insertion rod is inserted. A periphery of the outer sheath is formed with an annular groove corresponding to the transverse recess of the projecting block. The inner circumference of the fastening ring is formed with an annular rib fitted in the annular groove. The rib is formed with a dent having a width slightly larger than the width of the split. When rotating the fastening ring, the rib is engaged in the transverse recess of the projecting block to restrict the insertion rod from displacement.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Inventor: Pao-Lu Chen
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Patent number: 6408587Abstract: A structural member, e.g. a truss for erection of temporary structures, comprises a number of elongate elements disposed in spaced generally parallel relationship to one another with transversely extending elements therebetween, and an element extending longitudinally of the structural member has a formation extending lengthwise of it for engagement by an attachment member which is to be retained to the longitudinally extending element at any of a range of positions therealong. The attachment member may provide for connection of a safety element to the structural member, and be freely movable therealong in use.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Total Fabrications LimitedInventors: Christopher Patrick Noel Cronin, Neil Howard Darracott
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Patent number: 6406215Abstract: A positive connection between a pipe and a ring inserted into the pipe, in particular between the housing of a ram boring device and a stop ring inserted into the housing, wherein the inside wall of the pipe has a convex groove consisting of a section of a surface of a sphere and the ring has a corresponding convex outer surface with the same radius, the inside wall of the pipe possessing at least one axial groove permitting insertion into the pipe or the outer surface of the ring possessing at least one flattened portion permitting insertion into the pipe, or the ring being axially divided into two or more preferably unequal segments.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1999Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Tracto-Technik Paul Schmidt SpezialmaschinenInventors: Gerhard Balve, Franz-Josef Püttmann
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Patent number: 6371350Abstract: By means of the fastener fixing tool fitted with a fastener-guide (30), the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30) are firmly fixed together, by a relative movement of the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the one in relation to the other, in a plane perpendicular to the axis (21) of the fastener-guide (30), the base plate is pressed against a receiver-support (100) and attached there by means of a fastener. Where the base plate constitutes a female part for firmly uniting with the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the fastener-guide (30) is provided with an exterior annular groove (24) to receive a snap fit clamp (11) of the base plate.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Societe de Prospection et d'Inventions Techniques SpitInventors: Louis Gonnet, Guy Jaillet
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Publication number: 20020025217Abstract: In a joint between two wooden structural members (2 and 3) there is inserted a joint plate (4), whose foot part (5) is joined abuttingly to the wooden structural member (2) by screws (7). The joint plate (4) is pushed into a slot (8) of the wooden structural member (3), whereupon connecting elements (1) are inserted in appropriate number through the wooden structural member (3) and the joint plate (4). Such a connecting element is provided at one of its ends with a boring part (11) and at its other end with a tool drive (12). The worked-off material is received by a portion (14) of smaller cross section and appropriate flutes (13). In addition, an axially secure relationship after setting is achieved with a thread (15) at one end of the connecting element. After it has been finally set, the connecting element (1) is seated in an exact fit as the fixation between the joint plate (4) and the wooden structural member (3) in its self-drilled hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2001Publication date: February 28, 2002Applicant: SFS Industrie Holding AGInventor: Paul Mattle
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Patent number: 6345927Abstract: The weld reinforcement includes a generally dogbone-shaped pocket having laterally enlarged end portions and a reduced intermediate portion spanning a weld seam. A complementary-shaped reinforcing element is received in the pocket. The pocket includes a projection which is received in an opening in the overlying reinforcing element. A wedge-type clamp retainer is received about the projection within the opening to secure the element within the pocket.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Hsueh-Wen Pao, Jack T. Matsumoto, David B. Drendel, David W. Sandusky
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Patent number: 6339891Abstract: A picture frame comprises mitred metallic frame sections, each of which has a locking channel and a rearwardly facing opening, and a corner piece in each corner of the frame to lock adjacent frame sections together. Each corner piece comprises an L-shaped locking plate and an L-shaped backing plate, with the legs of each plate extending into the locking channels of adjacent frame section. In one embodiment, each locking plate has a single threaded aperture at the junction of the two legs which form the L and a screw extending through the aperture into engagement with the associated backing plate. The screw is accessible through the rearwardly facing opening of adjacent frame sections at their mitred junction. In a second embodiment, a cam positioned at the junction of the legs of the two plates is rotated to force the plates apart.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1999Date of Patent: January 22, 2002Assignee: Nielsen & Bainbridge L.L.C.Inventor: Eugene Cox
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Patent number: 6330735Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming an airlaid fibrous web on a moving surface can include a contoured foraminous member (62) having a first side portion (66), a laterally opposed second side portion (68), and a depth contour. A longitudinally extending, first side-masking member (52) can be located superjacent the first side portion (66) of the foraminous member (62), and can have a first inboard side wall surface (70). At least a second, separately provided, longitudinally extending, side-masking member (53) can be located superjacent the second side portion (68) of the foraminous member (62), and can have a second inboard side wall surface (72). Either or both of the first and second side-masking members (52, 54) are at least laterally movable relative to the foraminous member (62). A releasable attachment system (74) can selectively hold at least the first side-masking member (52) at a substantially fixed position relative to the foraminous member (62).Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: December 18, 2001Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: John Timothy Hahn, Michael Barth Venturino, Bradley John Berken, Raymond Gerard St. Louis, Paul Joseph Datta
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Patent number: 6325337Abstract: A connector for use in joining adjacent support sections of a cable support assembly. The support section includes a wall having connector mounting apertures therein. The connector includes a main body and a plurality of fasteners extending from a fastener mounting surface of the main body. Each fastener includes a shank and a generally resiliently deformable head portion in the region of the free end of the shank. The head portion is deformable so that it can pass through a respective one of the mounting apertures of one of the support sections and subsequently adopt a configuration where, when the connector is in a fitted position retraction of the fastener head through the mounting aperture in the support section is inhibited.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Framatome Connectors InternationalInventors: John W. Pedley, Ronald J. Reinke, Bruce J. Ogden
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Patent number: 6324743Abstract: By means of the fastener fixing tool fitted with a fastener-guide (30), the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30) are firmly fixed together, by a relative movement of the base plate and the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the one in relation to the other, in a plane perpendicular to the axis (21) of the fastener-guide (30), the base plate is pressed against a receiver-support (100) and attached there by means of a fastener. Where the base plate constitutes a female part for firmly uniting with the end (23) of the fastener-guide (30), the fastener-guide (30) is provided with an exterior annular groove (24) to receive a snap fit clamp (11) of the base plate.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Societe de Prospection et d'Inventions Techniques SpitInventors: Louis Gonnet, Guy Jaillet
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Patent number: 6325694Abstract: Disclosed are improvements to a construction system based on genderless connectors. The improvements consist of elements that allow connection at an arbitrary angle in the same plane as a hub assembly. Additionally are disclosed elements that allow for the construction of spheres from planar circular hubs.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventors: Eric Clever, Ray Lyons
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Publication number: 20010022918Abstract: An expansion or crack joint assembly (32) utilizes a coupler (20) with or without a bottom sheet (34) to join adjacent roadway concrete slabs (86, 90) formed separately initially or continuously cast and later separated by a saw cut, which induces cracking to form a crack joint. The coupler (20) includes a casing (22), an internal component (24,25,62,65), and outer sleeve (26), and end caps (28,30). The casing (22) defines an internal chamber (40) which receives the internal component (24,25,62,65) therein. The sleeve (26) and end caps (28,30) fit over the casing (22). The casing (22) and sleeve (26) transmit loads between the concrete slabs (86,90) while the sleeve (26) and end caps (86,90) operate to reduce stress concentrations. The bottom sheet (34) inhibits water from entering the expansion or crack joint assembly (32) from below, if used, and prevents pumping.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2001Publication date: September 20, 2001Inventors: Kuo-Kuang Hu, Philip G. Kirmser
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Patent number: 6283669Abstract: A novel concentricity stabilizer acts as both a structural coupling and an alignment device and a means for providing a concentric structure from a series of segmental modules. The concentricity stabilizer creates a self support system that permits construction of the individual modular pocket assemblies into a perfectly circular drum ready for attachment to suitable drum flanges or discs and shaft assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Inventors: Jerry L. Toney, Nathan E. E. Toney, Gregory F. Ward
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Patent number: 6234910Abstract: A shaft arrangement includes two shaft ends positioned in end-to-end abutting relation and an outer sleeve surrounding the abutting ends of the two shaft ends. The outer sleeve has through-channels for introducing pressure medium in the interface between the shaft ends and the outer sleeve to create a sleeve expanding effect during mounting and dismounting, and a radial grip acting between the sleeve and the two shaft ends, when the pressure medium has been drained through the through-channels, with the radial grip effecting a radial as well as an axial joining of the shaft ends and the outer sleeve. Each shaft end adjacent its abutting end face is equipped with a grip arrangement that is engaged by a thrust member. The thrust member bridges the abutting end faces and engages the grip arrangement inside the outer sleeve to inhibit the two shaft ends from being axially pulled apart even upon application of a large axial force.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Ovako Couplings ABInventor: Stefan Norberg
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Patent number: 6224451Abstract: An assembling structure for main wing of a model airplane. The main wing is composed of a left wing and a right wing. The mating faces of the left and right wings are disposed with complementary engaging seat and engaging block which are mated with each other and tightened by a conic screw. Therefore, the left wing and the right wing can be quickly firmly assembled to form the main wing. The screw can be easily untightened to quickly disassemble the left wing from the right wing for easy carriage or storage.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: Thunder Tiger Corp.Inventor: Aling Lai
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Patent number: 6161983Abstract: A device (10) for fastening structural elements (20), in particular pneumatic elements, by fastening elements (22) is proposed. The device (10) consists of several, parallel arranged fastening plates (42, 44, 46), which are arranged by means of screws (18) between two profiled rods (14, 16). Sliding blocks (76, 86) are arranged between the individual fastening plates (42, 44, 46) of the device (10) in grooves (74) of the longitudinal sides (66, 68, 70, 72) of the fastening plates (42, 44, 46). The sliding blocks (76, 78) can be arbitrarily positioned in arbitrary numbers, are easy to mount, hide possible gaps and increase the rigidity of the device (10).Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1998Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Johannes Berger, Johannes Koban, Olaf Klemd
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Patent number: 6109854Abstract: A slide extends from an upper level platform to a lower level. The slide includes a bed with a smooth top surface and side frames that project upwardly from the bed. The bed is a sheet having upraised lips along its side edges. The lips are received by first channels in the side frames. Crossbars extend transversely beneath the bed, with the ends of the crossbars being received by second channels in the side frames. A groove is formed in the top surface of the bed, which groove receives a line. The line is coupled to a motor and to a carrier located on the slide, wherein the carrier traverses up and down the slide. Objects can be raised and lowered between the two levels using the carrier. Alternatively, objects can be allowed to slide down the bed.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Vic Thompson CompanyInventors: Victor H. Thompson, Jr., Christina S. Gross, Keith W. Gross
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Patent number: 6109898Abstract: A scroll compressor having a compressor housing and an orbiting scroll member is provided with an annular plate between the housing and orbiting scroll member. The plate having an axial aperture provided therethrough, the plate abutting one of said housing and said orbiting scroll member. A pin projects through the aperture of the plate and is engaged with the member abutting the plate. A projection is provided on the pin for preventing axial displacement of said pin relative to said plate axially away from the abutting member.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Eric William Scarlett
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Patent number: 6102382Abstract: A Belleville spring comprising a thin strip of hardened spring steel coiled into a circular shaped body with a frusto-conical configuration having an inner diameter and an outer diameter, wherein the strip has two free ends and the coiled spring steel body has the free ends joined together.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1997Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: Barnes Group Inc.Inventor: Matthew John Labesky
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Patent number: 6098249Abstract: The present invention provides an improved apparatus for forming a fibrous pad for absorbent products with improved density control. Fibers entrained in a high speed air flow are deposited onto the foraminous surface of a spaced, three-dimensional pad-forming pocket. The fine foraminous pad forming screen is supported on its periphery by two top plates, a coarse forming screen, two subplates and end rails which incorporate a device to hold the pad forming screen.A gas flow regulating system consisting of precisely placed cross directional fixed and adjustable airflow control louvers controls the air flow direction and reduces spill over and turbulence during the pad formation and especially during the transition of the forming pocket into and out of the air stream as the rotary former shell rotates through the filling position.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1997Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Inventors: Jerry L. Toney, Nathan E. E. Toney, Gerald Najour, Gregory F. Ward
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Patent number: 6088980Abstract: Space divider system includes multiple interconnected panel members and post members to form free-standing walls to subdivide an area. A pair of vertically extending rails are mounted on the vertical edges of a pair of panels to be joined together. Upper and lower connectors are used to interconnect the ends of the rails. The lower connector is mounted on one of the panels and extends into the rail of the other panel, thereby aligning the panels vertically. The upper connector comprises a pair of vertically tapering legs interconnected by a connecting portion through which a screw fastener extends into a bracket mounted on one of the edges. Accordingly, by tightening the screw, the upper connector may be tightened toward the lower connector, and, because of the tapered legs, the rails of the members are drawn together while maintaining vertical and lateral alignment, thus providing a secure and stable connection with a relatively narrow gap that must be covered by trim.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignee: L & P Property Management CompanyInventor: Barron J. Gulliver
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Patent number: 6051635Abstract: A dowel for use in the woodworking industry to secure two pieces of wood together is made of a composite, polymeric material comprising from about 4% to 90% by weight thermosetting resin and from about 10% to 96% by weight fibrous filler material. The thermosetting resin and the fibrous filler material are mixed together and then subjected to a high pressure and an elevated temperature to set the thermosetting resin and form a dense, hard mass of composite, polymeric material which is formed into the cylindrical shape of a dowel. The dowels have a surface that will adhere to conventional glues used in the woodworking industry.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1996Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Inventor: J. Mel Hatch
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Patent number: 6006803Abstract: A special jointing metal device for advanced framework construction method includes a flat plate section having a rectangular shape and cylindrical sections which are provided to the flat plate section in one body along opposite edges of the flat plate section, so that wooden members are jointed to one another by inserting the special jointing metal device into holes each of which is formed in the corresponding wooden member.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Nakanishi Koumuten Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teruo Nakanishi, Eiji Furuta, Masao Yanagihara
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Patent number: 5980353Abstract: The connecting device includes rotor and blade mounting segments each secured on a rotor and a fan blade at a respective connecting end thereof. A socket end of the rotor mounting segment extends in a radial direction relative to the rotor, and has an insert wall with an insert opening, an insert slot confined by upper and lower inner walls and extending in the radial direction from the insert opening, and an upper outer wall opposite to the upper inner wall. The upper outer wall has a recess communicated with the insert slot to form a retaining wall. A plug end of the blade mounting segment has a bottom wall to be fitted into the insert slot from the insert opening. A resilient retainer has a proximate end secured on the bottom wall, and a distal end with an engaging spring protrusion to provide a biasing force away from the bottom wall.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Inventor: San-Chi Wu
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Patent number: 5902168Abstract: A coupling element for releasable retention of an end of an elongate pull element has a cavity to receive said end. The pull element is formed with a constriction and the coupling element with a corresponding cavity. The pull element may be inserted unobstructedly and subsequently be locked by moving a movable portion, e.g. in the form of a hinged portion, into a locking position in which, in combination with the cavity, it establishes releasable locking of the pull element.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: INTERLEGO AGInventors: Ole Vestergaard Poulsen, Jan Hatting
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Patent number: 5881515Abstract: A modular construction system and modular member are provided for the construction of concatenated structures having interconnected, overlapping, offset or parallel courses. The modular members are provided with substantially planar upper and lower surfaces with the thickness, width and hole spacing of each modular member being predetermined and interdependent. The modular members present holes which receive connectors, and may have holes presenting a plurality of bore diameters. The members may be cut perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the member midway between adjacent holes to provide compatible modular member segments. The complementally shaped connectors are received in the holes and may include mechanical barbs or threads, or separate retainers for use with the connectors inhibit preventing vertical separation of overlapping adjacent modular members.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1996Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Inventor: Mark D. George