Separate Screw Or Pin-type Connections Patents (Class 403/306)
  • Patent number: 6726167
    Abstract: An extension arm suitable for mounting a flat-screen electronic peripheral device, such as a computer monitor or television, includes a forearm extension that has at one end a first coupling for attachment to a tilter, a platform or other means for supporting a flat-screen device and at the other end a second coupling with a slot formed therein. The extension arm also includes a pair of endcaps, each having a shaft. The shaft of the first endcap is pivotably rotatable in a support mount, such as a wall, desk or pole mount. The shaft of the second endcap is hollow and is pivotably rotatable in the second coupling of the forearm extension. The extension arm also comprises an upper channel and a lower channel. Each channel has at opposite ends integrally cast rollers which are pivotably attached to each of the endcaps. The lower channel has a cable channel formed therein. The upper and lower channels and the endcaps form an adjustable parallelogram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Innovative Office Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Odd N. Oddsen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6709234
    Abstract: An impeller shaft assembly, coupler and molten metal pump are described, in which a coupling member is configured to be secured to a pump drive shaft and includes a socket part that is defined by a socket wall formed about and extending along an axis. The socket wall includes a plurality of coupling shaft engaging surfaces and a plurality of socket corner surfaces joining the shaft engaging surfaces. The socket corner surfaces are disposed radially outward from adjacent shaft engaging surfaces with respect to the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Pyrotek, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Gilbert, Robert D. Dion, Mark A. Palmer, Kristopher M. Ratzlaff, Roger Kauffman, Charles Seale
  • Patent number: 6533494
    Abstract: A transducer mounting device comprised of a monolith of moldable material overlying and supporting a self-tapping screw at one end for coupling to a target such as a machine casing or bearing housing and a fabricated insert at an opposite end for mating with a monitoring transducer. In a further preferred form a transducer mounting device is comprised of a preform including an internal cavity overlying a magnetic component, an adhesive interposed between the magnetic component and a target such as a machine casing or bearing housing at one end for magnetically and adhesively bonding said preform to the target and a threaded member disposed at an opposite end of the preform for mating with a monitoring transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Bently Nevada, LLC
    Inventor: John Robert Gordon
  • Patent number: 6527407
    Abstract: A system for the protection of airport runway light fixtures and markers is disposed at or near the edge of aircraft runways, taxiway and airport signs. The system includes a thin flexible mat having an axial opening proportioned to enable placement of a runway light fixture or marker therethrough; and peripherally disposed apertures within the mat. The system further includes several anchors for the mat, each of which comprise a planar head, and means for penetration and engagement of earth upon which the mat is positioned. The penetration and engagement elements of each anchor integrally and rigidly depend from a lower surface of the planar head at a central axis. A greatest transverse cross-section of the engagement element is proportioned for complemental insertion within the peripheral apertures of the convex mat. The planar heads of the anchors each engage the mat when the engagement means have fully penetrated the earth upon which the mat is to be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Lyle E. Gluck
  • Patent number: 6510760
    Abstract: A bicycle cable connector for connecting a first cable to a second cable includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector include a first cable retaining portion for retaining the first cable and a projection extending along a first connector axis, wherein the projection includes a radially outwardly extending locking member. The second connector includes a second cable retaining portion for retaining the second cable and a tubular portion defining a first connector opening for receiving the first connector therein and having a side wall extending along a second connector axis. The side wall includes a first passage for passing the locking member in the direction of the second connector axis away from the first connector opening, a second passage extending in a circumferential direction, and a recess communicating with the second passage and extending in the direction of the first connector opening for receiving the locking member therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Nobuyuki Matsuo
  • Patent number: 6494644
    Abstract: A method of rapidly installing a composite pile structure of timber pile sections and a pre-selected connector having an opening smaller than a transverse dimension of a working end of a timber pile section. The lower pile section is driven into the ground to a convenient distance, the connector is driven onto the lower pile and the upper pile driven onto the connector, and the connection is rapidly made rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Foundation Systems of Louisiana, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Zengal Scandaliato, Michael Allen Cenac
  • Patent number: 6345925
    Abstract: A fastener is provided for splicing end portions of conveyor belts together with the fastener having a bolt with a pilot or lead-in portion that provides improved threading of a nut thereto and makes installation of the fasteners on the belt ends faster and easier. The pilot of the bolt is longer than the beveled conical tip portion of prior bolts so that nuts received thereon will stay substantially aligned with the axis of the shank. In this manner, threading of the nut to the bolt shank is easier in terms of avoiding cross-threading problems. Also, as the pilot portion of the shank is free of any threads, the installation of the bolt onto the belt ends can be done more quickly with less resistance during the insertion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Flexible Steel Lacing Company
    Inventor: John Coleman
  • Patent number: 6334733
    Abstract: A pipe connector comprising a contour fitting washer, a contour fitting nut, and a bolt is used to connect tubular members of a structure having a modular tubular framework. The pipe connector connects interfitting tubular members wherein one tubular member has an outer diameter approximating the inner diameter of a second tubular member. Each tubular member has a pair of diametrically opposed holes. When the pipe connector is completely assembled, the head of the bolt resides within a centrally disposed recess formed in the washer, and the nut is flush with the exterior of the tubular member. The pipe connector of the present invention is durable, strong, convenient to assemble, neat, and safety oriented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: James William Tyson
  • Patent number: 6327829
    Abstract: A connecting structure of concrete block according to the present invention comprises connecting rods buried in divided blocks, and a connector which exerts forces to attract exposed ends of the connecting rods toward each other and maintains a condition where it exerts predetermined attracting forces. In this connecting structure, the connecting rods are attracted toward each other and the divided blocks are brought into contact with each other under pressure by tightening an external thread portion of a first tightening member into an internal thread hole of a second tightening member with a tool after the divided blocks are combined so as to match cavities thereof with each other. A connector according to the present invention comprises a first tightening member which is rotatably fitted over an exposed end of a connecting rod of one divided block and a second tightening member which is rotatably fitted over an exposed end of another concrete block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Kaieitechno Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeo Taguchi
  • Patent number: 6301769
    Abstract: In order to improve operation efficiency, there is provided a method for assembling two assemblies together through a rotating medium, in which all the processes are automated except for fitting engagement of the spline portions. The method comprises a first manual operational step and a second automatic operational step. The first manual operational step includes a process for connecting a first rotating shaft member of a first assembly and the rotating medium while adjusting phases thereof. The second step includes a process for fitting a plurality of split knock-pins provided on the rotating medium into corresponding fitting holes of a second rotating shaft member of a second assembly, and thereafter spreading the front end of each split knock-pin so as to fix the rotating medium to the second rotating shaft, and assembling the first assembly with the second assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masami Chiyouji, Yoshiaki Higashi, Norihisa Ikemura
  • Patent number: 6287045
    Abstract: A guide rail splice sleeve provides for adjustable housing, gripping, and connecting of sequential guide rail segments. The device includes an elongated central member, first and second tension bars detachably connected to the central member at opposite ends thereof, and fastening elements for securely connecting the first and second tension bars independently to the central member. The independent connection of each tension bar to the central member permits sequential guide rail segments to be gripped or adjusted independently of the other. Additionally, the sleeve may include a hand tightening device so that the fastening elements may be adjusted without the need for tools. Also, the sleeve may include an extension for spanning any gap between non-abutting ends of adjacent guide rail segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Valu Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart J. Ledingham, Jeffrey J. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6261182
    Abstract: An installation structure of a rotation detector for detecting a rotation amount of a rotational shaft such as a kingpin. The installation structure prevents wear and damage to an input shaft of the rotation detector caused by a radial force applied to the input shaft and has high detection accuracy by eliminating slack between the rotational shaft and the input shaft. The rotation detector is fixed to a support member rotatably supporting the rotational shaft such that the input shaft is substantially coaxial with the rotational shaft. The input shaft is coupled to the rotational shaft through a rotation transmitting means. The rotation transmitting means permits the axis of the input shaft to be offset from the axis of the rotational shaft and limits relative rotation between the input shaft and the rotational shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kenji Chino, Masaya Hyodo, Yoshihisa Iwanaga, Kazuo Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6250841
    Abstract: A guide rail splice sleeve device provides for adjustable housing, gripping, and connecting of sequential guide rails. The device includes an elongated central member, a first and second tension bar detachably connected to the central member at opposite ends thereof, and fastening elements for securely connecting the first and second tension bars independently to the central member. Advantageously the central member and tension bars have integral flanges to aid in support of the guide rails. The independent connection of each tension bar to the central member permits sequential guide rail segments to be gripped or adjusted independently of the other. Additionally, the sleeve may include a hand tightening device so that the fastening elements may be adjusted without the need for tools. Also, the sleeve may include an extension for spanning any gap between non-abutting ends of adjacent guide rail segments connected by the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Valu Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart J. Ledingham
  • Patent number: 6238129
    Abstract: A portable instrument holder for smaller instruments such as harmonicas is adapted for use with commonly available stands, such as microphone stands. This adapter is comprised of an adapter block that releasably engages an instrument holder. The adapter block fits onto the threaded upper end of the stand that is adjustable in height. The adapter block has a selection of threaded holes to fit various stand thread-types and stand diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Peter R. Rahn
  • 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: 6206605
    Abstract: A wooden piece of furniture includes at least three rod-like elements each having shorter edges, longer edges and an end portion of a rectangular cross section with a ratio of approximately two to three. The cross section is formed by the shorter and the longer edges. Slits are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements. The slits are arranged in the middle between and parallel to the shorter edges. The depth of the slits corresponds to the longer edges, and the width of the slits corresponds to one third of the longer edges. Cutouts are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements. The cutouts are arranged parallel to the longer edges, the depth of the cutouts corresponding to the shorter edges, and the width of the cutouts corresponding to half of the shorter edges. Extending times each formed by one of the slits and one of the cutouts are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Seeland
  • Patent number: 6186696
    Abstract: An assembly (10) formed of two parts pressed together in cruciform arrangement comprises a cylindrical part (11) and a tubular part (12). The tubular part (12) has a transverse hole (14) bordered by rims (18) extending toward each other. A spacer (16) in the form of a ring is inserted between the walls (15) of the tubular part (12), surrounding the region where the hole is to be formed. The rims are then deflected toward each other into engagement with the interior of the ring, the ring having a height equal to the distance between the walls (15). Thus, the ring (16) braces the tubular part (12) internally around the hole (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Vallourec Composants Automobiles Vitry
    Inventor: Daniel Valin
  • Patent number: 6179510
    Abstract: A rapid connect/disconnect system including a base mount, key pin, beveled washer, nut and mounting stud. This rapid connect/disconnect system can be used to secure two members together in a wide variety of applications where rapid connection and/or disconnection of the two members is desired. The base mount is secured to one member while the key pin, beveled washer, nut and mounting stud are secured to the second member. The nut and the key pin are threaded onto the mounting stud and the beveled washer is inserted onto the mounting stud between the nut and the key pin. A keyed socket is machined into the base mount to receive the mounting stud and key pin. From connection of the system, the key pin on the mounting stud is inserted into the keyed socket and the mounting stud rotated such that the key pin is threaded toward the nut along the length of the mounting stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Cobra Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Meicke, Darrel G. McCaslin
  • Patent number: 6173628
    Abstract: A multi-piece crankshaft having a main shaft with two ends adapted to rotate about its axis. A crankpin also has two ends and an axis parallel to but radially spaced from the axis of the main shaft. At least one counterweight extends between one end of the shaft and one end of the crankpin and this counterweight is formed by casting a liquid metal around the ends of the main shaft and crankpin in a molding chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Panther Machine, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald G. Leith
  • Patent number: 6065263
    Abstract: A connector forces exposed ends of connecting rods buried in divided concrete blocks toward each other. After the divided blocks are combined so as to align respective cavities within the blocks, a tool tightens an external threaded portion of a first tightening member into an internal threaded hole of a second tightening member. The tool thus forces the connecting rods toward each other and brings the divided blocks into contact with each other under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Kaieitechno Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeo Taguchi
  • Patent number: 6053654
    Abstract: A splice sleeve device provides for adjustable housing, gripping, and connecting of sequential guide rails. The device includes an elongated central member, a first and second tension bar located on opposite ends of the central member, and a first and second retention device to detachably secure the first and second tension bars to the central member, respectively. The dual retention device, accomplished by the first and second tension bars, allows a guide rail to be adjusted while the abutting sequential guide rail remains secure. In an additional embodiment, the sleeve is designed for use with a conveyor line having a radius turn. The sleeve has a shim that allows a guide rail to slide along a guide rail housing area when the guide rail housing area is tightened so as to adjust for gaps created in the arcuate conveyor line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Valu Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart J. Ledingham
  • Patent number: 6050740
    Abstract: A combined lockdog and Kelly bar adapter is provided for drivingly connecting a Kelly bar to a shaft of an earth anchor. The adapter includes a unitary one-piece body comprising a first section defining a first socket sized and shaped to receive a Kelly bar and a second section defining a second socket sized and shaped to receive the shaft of the earth anchor. A flange is formed in the first socket and has an inner wall having a smaller circumference than the wall of the first socket, so that the adapter can receive two different sized Kelly bars. A spring biased pin is provided to engage a hole in the earth anchor shaft to axially fix the adapter relative to the earth anchor shaft. The pin includes a sloped surface which is engaged by the earth anchor shaft, so that the adapter can be applied to the earth anchor shaft simply by sliding the adapter over the earth anchor shaft. The adapter includes a camming surface and a ring through an outer end of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Dixie Electrical Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Edward Dziedzic
  • Patent number: 5993101
    Abstract: This is invention is directed to a shaft coupling for coupling a first shaft and a second shaft. The shaft coupling includes an outer ring for encasing one end of the first shaft and one end of the second shaft; a first pin provided in the outer ring and the first pin extending in a first direction; and a second pin provided in the outer ring and the second pin extending in a second direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction; wherein the first shaft and the first pin are so set such that the end of the first shaft is movable along the first pin and the second shaft and the second pin are so set that the end of the second shaft is displaceable along the second pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Mita Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hironobu Kohno, Toshiaki Kusuda
  • Patent number: 5988931
    Abstract: A motor and generator coupling device including a coupler having a generally cylindrical configuration. The coupler has an inner end and an outer end. The outer end has three studs extending outwardly therefrom. The three studs are dimensioned and are aligned for extending within three holes within a drive disc hub of a generator. A circular flange is secured to an outer wall of the generator and is disposed over the inner end of the coupler. A hydraulic motor is secured to the circular flange in communication with the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: James L. Otwell
    Inventor: James L. Otwell
  • Patent number: 5967693
    Abstract: A drive shaft permits driving two different driven shafts, such as those used on powered earth augers, from a single power source, whether the driven shaft has a circular cross section drive coupling, or a hexagonal cross section drive coupling. In one form an adapter can be slipped over a hexagonal shaft to receive a circular cross section drive coupling, and in another form, a shaft is provided with two axially displaced portions. An outer end portion has a hexagonal cross section, and a slightly larger circular cross section shaft portion is positioned adjacent the power unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Rae Dell Braaten, Edward A. J. Larson, Verne C. Watts
  • Patent number: 5899319
    Abstract: An economical convenient coupling and process are provided to more safely secure screw conveyor sections together to enhance the longevity and wear of the screw conveyor, prevent accidents, and minimize downtime and repair. In the user-friendly coupling and process, internally threaded bushings are plug welded to the hollow core of the shafts and a double ended thread stud are screwed into the bushings along the axis of the shafts. The studs and bushings are hidden from view in the interior of the shafts and securely lock the screw conveyor sections together without the use of exterior, transverse or vertical bolts, nuts and locking pins, which can shear and damage downstream processing equipment and injure consumers and operating personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Farmers Rice Milling Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack Jarnagin
  • Patent number: 5895167
    Abstract: A foldable rod assembly includes first and second rods of predetermined dimensions and having connecting ends with pivot holes, and a coupler unit for coupling pivotally the connecting ends. The coupler unit includes two elongate plates respectively having right and left longitudinal sides, upper and lower transverse sides, and upper and lower pivot holes disposed in symmetry to a middle line between the transverse sides. A blocking member extends transversely from the right longitudinal side proximate to the upper transverse side. Two protrusions extend from the left longitudinal side parallel to the blocking members respectively and proximate to the transverse sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Yin-Tang Chang
  • Patent number: 5832689
    Abstract: A joint able to join three members. The joint is formed by each member having at least one channel of a width generally equal to the thickness of a member to be joined to it and a length generally equal to the width of a member to be joined to it. There is a recess in each member positionable so that, when constructed, the joint has a pathway formed by said recesses. A locking member is received by said pathway to lock the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Cariboo Bob Productions
    Inventor: Bruce Curll
  • Patent number: 5803647
    Abstract: A handrail connector for a pair of longitudinally spaced apart handrails having ends defining openings, the connector including a flexible bar having ends sized to be fitted within opposing openings of the handrails and being adapted to be retained with the openings upon movement of either of the handrails. The flexible bar includes a stop secured at its center and two biasing members placed on opposite sides of the stop. The biasing members provide a pushing force between the stop and each of the handrail ends to center the handrail connector between the handrail ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Ceiriog Hughes
  • Patent number: 5782920
    Abstract: A joint prosthesis component system allows an inferior component of a prosthesis system to be offset from a superior component of the system. In one embodiment the joint prothesis component system comprises a tibial tray having an offset tibial stem. An adapter element connects between the tibial tray and tibial stem to provide the desired degree of offset and the orientation of the offset. The adapter element is constructed such that a longitudinal axis extending through a first end thereof is offset from a longitudinal axis extending through a second end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Professional, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis P. Colleran
  • Patent number: 5749310
    Abstract: A repair kit is provided for quickly and efficiently repairing a hex drive shaft on an agricultural planter. The invention provides a repair sleeve which is closely coupled with the broken or cut hex drive shaft. This repair sleeve is then attached to either side of a broken drive shaft thus allowing the planter to become operable once again. Utilizing the present invention to accomplish the repair, the planter is quickly and efficiently fixed using a small number of tools and not requiring transportation to a repair facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Alwyn Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen O. Klinkner, Larry R. Hancock
  • Patent number: 5709553
    Abstract: A flexible connection arrangement is provided for two conductors that accommodates all possible forms of misalignment between the two conductors. The connection arrangement utilizes spherical joints formed by facing hemispherical protuberances at each end of two movable links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: S&C Electric Company
    Inventors: John C. Opfer, Buddy B. McGlone
  • Patent number: 5690445
    Abstract: A high speed assembly connection structure that consists of a direction screw of a connector head that fits in a direction slot of a tool element which causes the tool element to be limited to a specified direction. A set screw of the connector head protrudes into a cambered groove of the handle, which limits the rotation of the handle within a specified range. An entry position notch of the handle holds the tool element in a specified direction during assembly and a mounting slot of the tool element enables the tight engagement of the handle after the handle is rotated. Furthermore, in the operation of this structure, no additional tools are required to accomplish the rapid installation of the tool element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: Ta-Chin Wu
  • Patent number: 5649782
    Abstract: A transport anchor for transporting a heavy part, which anchor is embedded in the heavy part, includes a sleeve having an inner thread for receiving a load bearing member. The sleeve has a first section with an exterior end face positioned flush with the exterior surface of the heavy part. The sleeve has a second section with a receiving member for an anchoring element of the heavy part. A first plug with an outer thread is threaded into the inner thread of the sleeve and is moveable along the inner thread. The first plug has a plug end face facing outwardly relative to the heavy part. The load bearing member can frictionally engage the plug end face of the first plug. The load bearing member has a base body with an outer thread for cooperation with the inner thread of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Assignee: Halfen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Frohlich, Ernst Peppel
  • Patent number: 5645291
    Abstract: An adapter that is to be mounted on each end of each axle of a skateboard. The adapter is to be added to the axle after the conventional wheels of the skateboard have been removed. The adapter extends the wheel mounting for the skateboard some distance from the peripheral edge of the platform of the skateboard. A substantially larger wheel can then be utilized in conjunction with the skateboard facilitating usage of the skateboard within terrain other than hard surface terrain such as grass and dirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Sandy F. Ramage
  • Patent number: 5596845
    Abstract: An improved mounting apparatus which is adjustable for providing a safety breakaway capability for the attachment of post assemblies normally adjacent to a road or highway location wherein the vertical post assembly includes mounting holes located in a foundation therebelow. The improved breakaway apparatus includes a plurality of anchors fixedly secured to the foundation and a breakaway coupling interconnecting the anchor to the vertical post assembly. The breakaway coupling includes a weakened section to facilitate breaking thereof responsive to a lateral force exerted adjacent to the lower end of the vertical post assembly. Securement of the breakaway coupling to the anchor is provided by a unique lateral and vertical adjustment design by providing of a lateral clearance space between the lower support member and the collar aperture while at the same time providing an annular clearance space between the coupling support shoulder and the collar lip within the containment bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Richard Strizki
  • Patent number: 5570549
    Abstract: A house is anchored to the ground by extending a plurality of metal rods from anchors buried in a foundation to the upper framework of the house and clamping the house to each rod by a pair of spaced clamps, which includes a washer in each device around the rod jammed at an angle against the rod so as to be immovable in the tensile direction between the spaced clamps. The lower clamp is threaded onto the buried threaded anchor extending through the sole plate. A bolt extends through at least one top plate of an outer wall adjacent at least the outer corners of a building and threads into the upper clamp beneath the top plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventors: Jimmy R. Lung, Wayne E. Lung
  • Patent number: 5570675
    Abstract: A improved take-down archery bow is detailed which is easily taken apart, does not require excessive tools, and has the advantage of being useful in existing bows. These and other advantages are provided in a take-down archery bow comprising: a first elongated limb and second elongated limb each comprising a string attached on one end and matching abutment joint opposite thereto; a first assembly mechanism attached to the abutment joint of the first elongated limb comprising an alignment post parallel to the first elongated limb; a second assembly mechanism attached to the abutment joint of the second elongated limb comprises an alignment bore parallel to the second elongated limb capable of receiving the alignment post and aligning the matching abutment joints; an attachment plate rigidly attached to the back of one elongated limb and removable attached to the back of the other elongated limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Michael J. Treadway
  • Patent number: 5566580
    Abstract: A motion transmitting rod (16), particularly for a gear box, has as a portion of its length an elastic filtering sleeve (11) engaged by its ends into two tubular extremities (17) of two rod parts of the rod (16) which rod parts are then connected to each other. The sleeve can be a rectangular cross-section bar (12) coated with an elastic coating (13). In addition, the bar (12) has at the union between the tubular extremities (17) of the rod at least one widening portion (18) which is also coated with the coating (13) and which is engaged into two notches (19) with shapes complementary of that of the widening portion (18) and provided at the end in the extremities (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Hutchinson
    Inventors: Andre Girard, Giovanni Piu
  • Patent number: 5549409
    Abstract: A receiving member for a pledge lock of a shopping or luggage trolley, wherein the receiving member is attached to the trolley handle and contains the pledge lock in its cavity, while projecting from each side of the receiving member is a pin whose cross-sectional shape and diameter correspond to the cross-sectional shape and diameter of the cavity of the handle section of the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Vendoret Holding S.A.
    Inventor: Horst Merchel
  • Patent number: 5501542
    Abstract: A rapid coupling for a supported, driven shaft is disclosed. The coupling includes a coupling sleeve which is axially slidable over a drive shaft but keyed to the drive shaft to ensure that the coupling sleeve rotates with the shaft. The coupling sleeve has a driven end which includes slots for engaging driven pins affixed to a driven shaft. The coupling sleeve slides over and supports the driven shaft in a coupled position. The coupling sleeve is held in the coupled position by a quick release pin received in a bore through the drive shaft. The advantage is a simple coupling that is easily manufactured, the coupling being serviceable in a very restricted space where the driven shaft must be uncoupled without axial movement of either shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Farmatic Research, Inc.
    Inventor: William M. Hall, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5474501
    Abstract: A maze including a plurality of posts, a plurality of stretching members for inserting into longitudinal slots on the posts to reinforce the structural strength of the posts, a plurality of coupling members end matched between either two posts, and a plurality of partition members for connection horizontally between either two posts to define a network of intricate passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventor: Chung C. Teng
  • Patent number: 5462134
    Abstract: A scaffolding construction used particularly for H-shaped frames. The posts f a frame are provided at one end with a bushing, of which the inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the post (1). The bushing is provided with a recess and a staggered groove lying opposite to the recess. The end of another post is provided with a pin (14) which can be fittingly received through the groove and recess (7) in bushing (5). During assembly the post is placed in a position, such that its pins (14) are inserted through the groove via the recesses. During the angular rotation of the post into its vertical position, the pins are guided by the grooves and supported by the recesses, so that the pins come to rest in the posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: SGB Holdings Ltd. for These Research & Development Dept. Holland
    Inventor: Johannes H. M. Van Helmond
  • Patent number: 5427469
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a cable or rope restraining device which comprises a U-shaped member or U-bolt to engage two saddle clamps. The first saddle clamp is a friction clamp for securing a dead end section of the rope. The second saddle clamp provides a channel for loosely containing a live section of the rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: Timothy G. Galarnyk
  • Patent number: 5419538
    Abstract: An improved fastening system is provided for anchoring a post to a foundation, in which the fastening system is received and completely concealed within a recess formed between the post and the foundation. The fastening system of this invention also provides for an improved method for installing a post, by which the post is threadably secured to the foundation by being rotated relative to the foundation. The fastening system includes a first member securable to a lower surface of the post, and a second member securable to a surface of the foundation. Both the first and second members have a threaded bore therethrough, and are sized to have widths which are less than the diameter of the post. A threaded stud is threadably engagable with the threaded bores of the first and second members. For installation, the recess is formed in the lower surface of the post, the upper surface of the foundation, or both, so as to be sufficiently sized to receive the first and second members and the threaded stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas N. Nicholas, William C. Nicholson
  • Patent number: 5385420
    Abstract: A threaded snap-fit coupling assembly is provided for use in attaching a handle to an implement, such as a paint brush, paint pad, light bulb changer, cleaning brush or the like. The assembly includes an adaptor provided with a cylindrical receptacle and a male fastening member that is externally threaded and sized for threaded receipt in a threaded opening of the implement so that the adaptor may be connected to the implement. The assembly also includes a coupling provided with a first end that is retained on the handle, and a cylindrical male portion that is externally threaded and sized for threaded receipt in the opening of the implement and for sliding receipt within the receptacle of the adaptor. The coupling is retained on the adaptor via a snap-fit connection when the male portion of the coupling is received in the receptacle of the adaptor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Inventors: Robert D. Newman, Sr., Robert D. Newman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5357818
    Abstract: An adapter for manual attachment and removal of a flanged motor on a power driven appliance. A bracket attaches to the appliance and cooperatively receives the motor flange. Pins incorporating clips or expanding projections then secure the motor to the appliance. A shaft-to-shaft connector is then secured by similar pins, thus coupling the motor output shaft and appliance power input shaft. For belt driven appliances, the motor output shaft terminates in a pulley, or is coupled to a shaft having a pulley and attached to the appliance. Optionally, a belt tensioning pulley is included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventor: James W. Hill
  • Patent number: 5303944
    Abstract: A bicycle riding training device or handle which is attachable to a bicycle and which can be easily adjusted and portion removed and reattached after being secured to the bicycle. A clamping portion is attached to the bicycle and a handle portion is locked into the clamping portion or unlocked from the clamping portion when it is no longer needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventor: Allan L. Kalmus
  • Patent number: 5297888
    Abstract: A versatile framing system incorporates open channel members and closed tubular members. The closed tubular members provide strength, while the open channel member allows various members to be attached at an infinite number of positions along its length. The inventive system thus successfully incorporates the advantages of both open channel members and closed tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Unistrut International Corp.
    Inventor: Charles O. Nehls
  • Patent number: 5297887
    Abstract: An injection-molded receiver for securing a mop handle, broom handle or alternative cleaning or utility handle to a mop, broom or other cleaning or utility implement or tool having a threaded mounting stud. The injection-molded receiver includes a receiver cap having a cap opening for receiving and mounting one end of the handle and a cap base integrally formed in the receiver cap and fitted with an internally-threaded insert having flange cleats which is injection-molded into the cap base for threadably receiving the threaded mounting stud attached to the cleaning or utility implement, for example, a screw-type mop head. Injection-molding of the insert in the cap base of the receiver facilitates stability, longevity and ease of coupling a screw-type mop or similar utility implement or tool to a handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Inventor: Stephen R. Williams