Abstract: Provided is an electronic control device, in which positioning of a case including a connector housing portion and a pin header portion of a connector mounted on an electronic circuit board may be carried out easily with high accuracy so that ease of assembly and a water-proof property of the connector are improved. The electronic control device includes: an electronic circuit board (1) on which a pin header (30) used for electric connection to an external device is mounted together with an electronic component (11); and a case (2) for receiving the electronic circuit board therein, the case including a connector housing portion (31) provided as an opening portion (310) at a position corresponding to the pin header. A cover (20) of the case including the connector housing portion and the pin header mounted on the electronic circuit board have a first positioning structure using press-fit.

Abstract: Various crimpless electrical connector assemblies are disclosed. The crimpless connector can include a crimpless contact configured to join two electrical conductors. A portion of the crimpless contact can be received in an outer housing that comprises a tapered lumen. The crimpless contact can be coupled to an activation unit, such as with a threaded connection. Rotation of the activation unit can cause the crimpless contact to translate within the outer housing and the tines to be compressed against the first conductor, thereby physically securing the first conductor in the crimpless connector.

Abstract: In a riding mower having a frame, a mower deck supported beneath the frame by a pair of turnbuckles with resilient polyurethane bushings and a source of motive power also supported on the frame. The frame is supported on forward and rear wheel assemblies with a supporting wheel. The turnbuckles are pivotally secured to the frame by downwardly depending tabs captivating a forward end with the trailing end secured to the deck with links with holes that slide on bolts extending from lift actuator arms.

Abstract: A connector for a conductor of a power cable includes a hollow outer member configured to at least partially surround an exposed section of the conductor and configured to exert a force in an axial direction onto at least one electrically conductive inner member, and at least one electrically conductive inner member configured to be interposed between the outer member and the conductor, and configured to exert a force in a radial direction onto the conductor in response to the force in an axial direction.

Abstract: A spacer plate (3, 6, 7) for interconnecting support profiles (1, 5, 8, 9) of a display support structure (23) is described, including at least one alignment opening (11) for receiving an alignment stud (2) for aligning a first profile (1, 8) with respect to a second profile (5, 9) via the spacer plate (6), and at least one connector opening (13) for receiving a connector bar (4) for connecting the first profile (1, 8) to the second profile (5, 9) via the spacer plate (6), wherein the connector opening (13) is connected to the alignment opening (11) such that the relative position of the alignment stud (2) inside the alignment opening (11) is adjustable by the position of the connector bar (4) inside the connector opening (13). This allows to easily put the alignment stud (2) into the alignment opening (11) of the spacer plate (3, 6, 7) or vice versa and to eliminate all free play between the alignment stud (11) and the spacer plate (3, 6, 7) at the same time.

Abstract: Disclosed are a connection member for a tent pole, and a detachable jig of the same. The connection member for a tent pole, which connects unit poles of which opposite end parts are internally formed with insertion holes, the connection member including: a pair of insert members which are respectively fitted in and fixed to insertion holes at end parts of a pair of adjacent unit poles; a connecting pipe body which is formed with a through hole in a middle thereof to be arranged between the insert members and includes opposite end parts respectively inserted the insertion holes of the unit poles; and an elastic cord which includes opposite end parts respectively fixed to the pair of insert members while being inserted in the through hole of the connecting pipe body and provides elasticity so that the end parts of the pair of adjacent unit poles can be in contact with each other.

Abstract: The invention provides an end fitting (26) for a wiper blade (10) that can be mounted on a longitudinal end (10a) of the blade (10) and that comprises means (54) for locking the end (16a) of the vertebra (16) when in its inserted position in a longitudinal housing (32), these means being designed to engage with a slot (50) made in a longitudinal edge (52) of the end (16a) of the vertebra (16), characterized in that the locking means (54) are produced symmetrically with respect to a vertical longitudinal mid-plane of the longitudinal housing (32).

Abstract: A sideform molding accessory (10) includes a cap member (12) for capping an end (14) of a sideform (16). The cap member (12) includes a pair of opposed sides (12.1) and (12.2) and a peripheral portion (13) with at least a part of a profile (18) of the peripheral portion (13) complementing a molding surface (20) of the sideform (16) A retaining member (22) extends from one of the sides (12.2) of the cap member (12) for retaining the cap member (12) in position relative to the end (14) of the sideform (16).

Abstract: A composite structural member is provided. The structural member includes a tubular shaft having a mating region of stiffness, and possibly thickness, greater than another region of said shaft. The shaft defines a lumen, and a fitting is disposed in the lumen. The fitting has a coupling region that defines at least one recessed portion bounded by one or more non-recessed portions, and the mating region mates with the coupling region of said fitting. As such, the shaft and fitting are mechanically restrained from at least some relative movement due to interference of the shaft and the fitting. A sleeve may be coupled to said shaft, for example, by including a tubular inner surface that proximately surrounds at least part of said shaft and mating region, for discouraging expansion of the mating region of said shaft.

Abstract: A structural building system includes a plurality of pultruded fiberglass reinforced structure components configured to be used as a structural frame member of a building and a plurality of connectors. Each connector is configured to be mounted to one end of a first pultruded structural component and includes a mounting section that is couplable to a second pultruded structural component so as to connect the first and second structural components at right angles to each other.

Abstract: A clamp for a tubular hose or cable is disclosed. The clamp comprises a first clamp half, a second clamp half, and a hinge pin. The first clamp half has a first end and a second end and defines a first concave semi-cylindrical face. The first end of the first clamp half carries means for mounting the clamp. The second clamp half has a first end and a second end and defines a second concave semi-cylindrical face. The first clamp half and the second clamp half come together along a parting line and are retained together by a hinge pin. The clamp halves are provided with snap-in liners for easy use. Alternative mounts for mounting the clamp on subsea wire line or tubulars is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cover for a tubular duct extending from a planar roof surface. The cover comprises a cap, a skirt and a closure. In use: the cap is disposed outwardly from said duct, to define a headspace outside said duct and an annular space surrounding the headspace; the skirt extends from the rim of the cap in surrounding, spaced relation to said duct; and the closure extends from the terminus of the skirt to said duct and is disposed in spaced relation to said surface. The skirt and closure have vanes formed therein. The vanes are oriented such that: precipitation driven by wind through the skirt into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the skirt, towards the roof; and precipitation driven by wind through the closure into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the closure, away from the duct.

Abstract: A locking device designed to maintain the connection between a male connecting element and a female connecting element, and assembly including the locking device. The locking device includes a sleeve provided with a female thread designed to interact with a male thread of the female connecting element and indexing means housed in the sleeve and designed to interact with the male connecting element and to be indexed during screwing of the locking device onto the female connecting element. The locking device also includes a compression device mounted so that it sides in the sleeve and is capable of increasing a contact pressure between the indexing means after screwing.

Abstract: A portable, modular apparatus for displaying fixtures and suites of fixtures in a commercial setting. The displayed fixtures can be cabinets, cabinets or the like and allow for display in a finished look to allow consumers to view the fixtures in a finished setting. A method of displaying fixtures and suites of fixtures in a commercial setting wherein the portions of the display are preassembled prior to in-store set up, thereby allowing quick and easy in-store set up of the display.

Abstract: Connecting element for joining two support members (2, 3) absorbing tensile forces, which connecting element (1) comprises at least a first and a second casing body (5, 6) with a through-hole (7) for receiving the respective support members (2, 3), which casing bodies (5, 6) can be joined together by way of a joining section (9) at a first end (11) of each casing body (5, 6), the opposing second end (13) of each casing body (5, 6) being provided with locking members (15, 16) for holding the support members (2, 3) fast. In a working position the locking member (15, 16) of at least one casing body (5, 6) produces an axial locking of the support member (2, 3) running through the casing body (5, 6) by way of a stop part (20) created on the support member (2, 3) within the area of the second end (13) of the casing body (5, 6).

Abstract: A bicycle attachment assembly comprises a handlebar stem, an end cap attached to an upper end of the handlebar stem, and an accessory-mounting device having a first end securely, releasably attached to the end cap and a second end to which an accessory is releasably attached. In another embodiment, the bicycle attachment assembly comprises a handlebar stem, an end cap attached to an upper end of the handlebar stem, and at least one accessory releasably attached to at least one mounting portion of the end cap. In a further embodiment, the bicycle attachment assembly comprises a handlebar stem, an end cap including a closing portion securely attached to the upper end of the handlebar stem for closing an upper end of the handlebar stem, the end cap further including an engaging portion formed on top of the closing portion, and an accessory releasably attached to the engaging portion.

Abstract: A tool for clamping onto a strut for holding objects such as pipes in place while they are being attached to the struts is disclosed. The clamp has opposing jaws, which are drawn together by movement of a handle, for pinching the lips of the strut and holding firmly thereto while holding objects adjacent the clamp. A handle on the clamp locks into a pinching position and can be released by opposite motion of the handle. Various attachments to the clamp housing can be used for holding different objects. The clamp has adjustable jaw positions for adjustable pinch strengths. The jaws are biased together when not engaging the strut to allow easy access to the strut for engaging the strut lips or removing the clamp from the strut. Use of the clamp allows one man to install pipes faster safer and easier and without the aid of a helper.

Abstract: A method for reducing the incidence of piston pin failure by providing a retainer assembly for piston pin plugs such that the plugs cannot be removed or shaken lose during operation. A plastic rod is inserted into the piston pin, and the rod is ultrasonically welded to the stems of mushroom-shaped plastic piston plugs such that the plugs cover the open ends of the pin and are held in place by the cooperation of structure between the plugs and the rod. In an alternate embodiment, the stem of each pin plug is hollow and a respective internally threaded brass insert is disposed in the stem and ultrasonically welded therein. An externally threaded rod is then engaged with the two internally threaded inserts to hold the plugs on the piston pin.

Abstract: An assembly for forming a trench comprising a frame having two elongated members that define a support surface and at least one opening. The assembly also includes a removable grate that is disposed on the support surface and includes a hook that is disposed proximate the opening defined by the elongated frame members. The assembly also includes a removable pin that is slidably inserted through an opening defined by an elongated member and is mechanically engaged by the hook of the grate to secure the grate to the frame.

Abstract: Multi-piece elevator links, which may be of variable length or capacity or both, are produced by cutting a unitary link into two parts and connecting different combinations of shanks and link ends to form the desired elevator link. Rotation of the link ends with respect to the shank may be prevented. Adapters may be employed between the shank and the link ends to provide varying connections.

Abstract: An assembly for forming a trench comprising a frame having two elongated members that define a support surface and at least one opening. The assembly also includes a removable grate that is disposed on the support surface and includes a hook that is disposed proximate the opening defined by the elongated frame members. The assembly also includes a removable pin that is slidably inserted through an opening defined by an elongated member and is mechanically engaged by the hook of the grate to secure the grate to the frame.

Abstract: A method for reducing the incidence of piston pin failure by providing a retainer assembly for piston pin plugs such that the plugs cannot be removed or shaken lose during operation. A plastic rod is inserted into the piston pin, and the rod is ultrasonically welded to the stems of mushroom-shaped plastic piston plugs such that the plugs cover the open ends of the pin and are held in place by the cooperation of structure between the plugs and the rod. In an alternate embodiment, the stem of each pin plug is hollow and a respective internally threaded brass insert is disposed in the stem and ultrasonically welded therein. An externally threaded rod is then engaged with the two internally threaded inserts to hold the plugs on the piston pin.

Abstract: A tool for performing lopping, pruning and similar operations includes a housing assembly formed of a pair of telescoping tubular sections. The tool also includes a tool head, a head line and an actuating line. The tool head, which is connected to one end of a tubular section, preferably includes a spring-biased blade coupled to the head line which is connected to a slidable block. The actuating line, while engaging the slidable block so that tensioning the actuating line causes movement of the blade, is also slidable relative to the block upon relative movement of the tubular sections.

Abstract: Wood framed walls of buildings are strengthened against destructive wind and seismic forces by spaced lengths of vertical wire rope having enlarged bulbous portions swagged on each end. A metal sleeve and a metal plate are slipped onto such lengths prior to swagging. Other lengths of wire rope only having bulbous portions are connected to attachments after forming a cross brace, and at least one cross brace is located in each major wall of a one-story building. The cross brace can be attached to a foundation structure of the building below a floor plate and/or to a stud and floor plate. The foundation structure may be concrete or other floor joist or the like. The wire ropes, may be located on a first story with another cross brace on another story thereabove with metal rods therebetween or the wire ropes forming two generally vertical cross braces may be formed from a pair of wire ropes with two metal sleeves between the stories through which the wire ropes extend.

Abstract: An end tip for an elastic-cord-connected compactable tubular assembly (14). The tip has an insertable body portion (10) which acts as the elastic cord retainer. Because of two longitudinal channels (11) and a connecting cross hole (12), the tensioned elastic cord (13) is doubly locked and anchored onto this insertable portion of the end tip with no knots required for attachment. The locked portions of elastic cord (13) also act as a wedge to secure the end tip within the ends of the tubular assembly (14) during use, yet allow the tip/cord to be removed by hand for repair of the tubular assembly, or for elastic cord retensioning or replacement.

Abstract: A turnbuckle assembly (20) for a vehicle steering linkage (10) includes a sleeve (50), a nut (52) and a threaded rod (30). The sleeve (50) has a plurality of circumferentially spaced knobs (80) located on its outer surface (78). The nut (52) has a base portion (84) and a skirt portion (86). The base portion (84) of the nut (52) has an internal thread (90), and is received on the threaded rod (30). The skirt portion (86) of the nut (52) has an internal groove (98), and extends over the end portion (60) of the sleeve (50). The nut (52) is movable from a starting position to a clamping position. When the nut (52) is in its starting position, the knobs (80) on the sleeve (50) are received in the groove (98) in the nut (52). The knobs (80) and the groove (98) then establish a releasable mechanical interlock holding the nut (52) in its starting position.

Abstract: A modular truss system (30) is disclosed that is especially suited for support of lighting, cameras and the like in association with a stage for performances thereon. The truss system includes cups (80) and alignment members (82) that aid in aligning the truss modules (62) for assembly thereof. The system also includes box shaped braces (78) to achieve longitudinal and transverse strength.

Abstract: An extensible and retractable golf club is provided, including interior and exterior telescoping hollow shaft members slidably interconnected, a handle securely attached to the free end of the exterior shaft member, a club head securely attached to the free end of the interior shaft member, and a locking mechanism which temporarily maintains the two telescoping shaft members in a desired position relative to each other. The locking mechanism includes first and second pieces which are transferrable from an open position, wherein the two pieces are axially aligned and the two telescoping shaft members slidable relative to each other, to a closed position, wherein the two pieces are not axially aligned and the two telescoping shaft members are not slidable relative to each other. Transfer of the two pieces of the locking mechanism from the open to the closed position is accomplished by twisting the shaft members relative to each other less than one full revolution.

Abstract: A connector is provided formed from an elongated seamless tubular member having a first segment to which a conductor may be attached and opposite second segment which comprise a male connector end or a female connector end. The conductor is attached to the tubular member by providing a groove or crease in the first segment. The conductor lead is disposed in such groove and, the first segment is then crimped to hold the lead in place relative to the conductor. Alternatively, the lead may be soldered to the groove or sandwiched between the groove and a sleeve positioned upon the first segment.

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.

Abstract: A U-shaped connector bracket connects an end of a first tubular frame member to a second frame member having two opposite sides and a pair of elongate recesses respectively located in and extending along the two opposite sides. The connector bracket has a pair of side arms, an end member extending between a first end of each side arm at a dependent end of the bracket, and projections at a second end of each side arm that are directed inwardly towards one another. The dependent end of the connector bracket is adapted for insertion within the end of the first tubular frame member. The projections from the side arms secure the connector bracket to the opposite sides of the second frame member by being located within a respective recess of the second frame member.

Abstract: A turnbuckle assembly for an automotive steering system tie-rod connection applies both radial and axial forces against the engaged threads to resist relaxation of tightening between the threads and to prevent spreading of the seam of a rolled stamped sleeve. Complimentary conical surfaces of a nut and the sleeve apply a compressive force as the nut is advanced axially onto the sleeve.

Abstract: A soil retaining system, including an upright soil retaining wall of modular facing panels and a number of horizontal wire mesh reinforcement units, including spaced parallel wires ending in bulbous portions and interconnected by perpendicular crossbars. The mesh units are connected in tiers to the retaining wall and rest in the soil behind the wall. The connection is made by a female member embedded into the back side of the panel with internal threads, into which a male member is threadedly received with an internal bore of a suitable size to pass the wires but not the bulbous portions which bear against the forward end of the bolts. In this manner, with the wires seated within a corresponding male member, the facing panels and mesh units are connected by screwing the male member into the female member.

Abstract: A boring tool with a variable length extension formed by a standard piece of pipe, for particular use in drilling downwardly from a wall studding header and through a fire brake bracing member which extends between the wall studs below the header, to facilitate the installation of piping, electric conduits, and the like, wherein a standard piece of pipe is threadedly connected by a coupling member at one end to a first shank portion of a boring tool, and a coupling member at its opposite end to an axially aligned second shank adapted for connection with a driving instrumentality. The coupling member in a modified form is provided at its pipe connection end with internally stepped threaded portions for selective connection with the ends of pipes of different diameter.