Split Patents (Class 403/313)
  • Patent number: 11753814
    Abstract: An anchor bolt fastener assembly with specialized connection capabilities and features for attaching building components to concrete slabs, walls, ceilings, and/or structural surfaces. Compression force can be established and maintained over time using a compression washer in combination with a specialized fastener stud that is designed to exploit the compression washer benefits. Methods of using exemplary embodiments include installing the anchor bolt fastener assembly relatively flush with the surface of the concrete slurry by direct insertion in the slurry using a specialized threaded anchor bolt float. Once the slurry hardens, the anchor bolt and anchor bolt float embedded in the concrete slurry cooperate with the specialized fastener stud to secure the building component to the concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: SR Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Drummond, Steve Zimmerman, Van T. Walworth, Tommy DuPuy
  • Patent number: 11644060
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a threaded nut. The threaded nut comprises a body, a plurality of threaded blocks, and a pushing cover. The body comprises a first through hole and a mounting cavity connected to the first through hole. The plurality of threaded blocks is configured to move in the mounting cavity in a radial direction. An inner wall of each of the plurality of threaded blocks is disposed with an internal thread, and an outer wall of each of the plurality of threaded blocks is disposed with a first inclined surface and a first straight surface. The pushing cover is disposed with a second through hole, at least one second straight surface, and at least one second inclined surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: Xiamen Lota International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Qingshui Ma, Huosheng Zhan, Dezheng Yu, Chuanbao Zhu
  • Patent number: 11634258
    Abstract: The cover for a drug product bottle with transfer tubes extending therefrom. The cover is made with two parts that close on each other over a screw cap on a drug product bottle. The parts each have a ledge that fits under the screw cap, an intermediately disposed flange that rests on the screw cap and a semi-circular lid spaced from the flange. The flanges and lids define an encapsulated space when the parts are in a closed position to encapsulate the transfer tubes extending from the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: BioFlex Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Jason C. Nisler, Ralph M. Meola
  • Patent number: 10619676
    Abstract: A coupling including a body member including a fitting hole into which an end of a spline shaft is fitted, and a connecting portion, the shaft including spline grooves linearly extending in an axial direction in a circumferential direction; a positioning mechanism positioning the body member in the circumferential direction with respect to the shaft fitted into the fitting hole; and a fixing portion fixing, to the shaft, the body member being positioned. The positioning mechanism includes a screw hole provided in the body member so as to penetrate from an outer surface of the body member to an inner surface of the fitting hole, a screw member fastened into the screw hole, and a pressing part having a circular cross section, provided in a tip of the screw member, and pressed against the spline groove by fastening of the screw member into the screw hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kei Watanabe
  • Patent number: 9217450
    Abstract: A method of mechanically connecting two or more components together comprises the steps of: i. mounting an elongate keyway connector (10) comprising regularly spaced keyways (13) to a first component wherein the keyways (13) provide a longitudinal keyway passage (16); ii. mounting at least one elongate key connector (11) comprising regularly spaced keys (14) to a second component; and iii. extending the keys (14) longitudinally within the keyway passage (16) and engaging the keyways (13) with the keys (14) to connect the first and second components together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: JOINLOCK PTY. LTD.
    Inventors: John Hamish Alexander Pettigrew, Dean Osman Cameron, Thomas David Percy
  • Patent number: 8657522
    Abstract: A compression coupler contains a robust and simple mechanism to couple threadless tubes in bicycles and/or scooters. Particulrly, the handlebar/stem tube-to-fork joint is coupled with a compression sleeve. The coupler provides more surface area for binding and is tightened along a slot on the length of the coupler. The coupler can include a headtube bearing preloading mechanism, a keyway for aligning the handlebar/stem tube to the fork, and shims to accommodate different sized tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew David Broussard
  • Patent number: 8522387
    Abstract: A swiveling locking mechanism of a telescopic rod of a mop, including: an internal clamping sleeve, an external clamping cylinder, and a U-shaped locking arm. The external clamping cylinder is mounted on the internal clamping sleeve and the lower portion of the external clamping cylinder is constructed as a trumpet-shaped opening mounted from top to bottom on the conic body. The U-shaped locking arm includes an eccentric cam is provided with a mounting hole corresponding to the axle hole of the internal clamping sleeve. Thus, when moving downward the U-shaped locking arm, the external clamping cylinder rises, and the trumpet-shaped opening of the external clamping cylinder is brought in a loosened position. As a result, the indentation is loosened and the internal rod and the external rod are brought into the unlocked and telescopic state and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Tuo Shen International Corporation Limited
    Inventor: Yung-Hua Chen
  • Patent number: 8500943
    Abstract: A continuous composite fiberglass sucker rod for connection between a pump and a pump drive has a rectangular cross section. End fittings having a rod receiving cavity are connected to the rod ends using a curable adhesive. The rod fitting is maintained in a vertical position with the cavity facing upwardly. The rod end portion is positioned in the cavity with the end at the bottom of the cavity. Curable adhesive is introduced into the cavity. A centralizer bushing is used to maintain alignment of the rod relative to the cavity. A portable heating device receives the fitting and rod end portion and enhances the curing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: John Crane Production Solutions Inc.
    Inventor: Russell P. Rutledge, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8419887
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Dennis K. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 8376294
    Abstract: A swivel assembly for a tire comprises a clamp assembly adapted to be secured to a header tube, a swivel first member suspended from the clamp to pivot either parallel to or perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the header tube, a swivel second member which is suspended from the swivel first member to pivot 90° relative to the pivotal motion of the swivel first member, and a swivel third member which can rotate about the swivel second member. The swivel first member is pivotally mounted to the clamp via an upper pivot pin and the second swivel member is pivotally mounted to the swivel first member by a second lower pivot pin. Lastly, the swivel assembly can include a tether which extends over the header tube to which the clamp assembly is secured which has opposite ends secured to opposite sides of the lower pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Miracle Recreation Equipment Company
    Inventors: J. Stephen Steury, Steven B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 8328457
    Abstract: A sanitary clamp made of high molecular weight thermoplastic polymer for connection to a barb connector having one end with a funnel formation. The sanitary clamp includes a pair of essentially semi-circular members having a pivotal connection at one of the ends of each member and a locking connection at the other ends of each member. The semi-circular portions of the members are configured to sealing and secure a pair of funneled ends of a pair of barb connectors with an O-ring disposed therebetween. The locking ends of the sanitary clamp includes a ratchet portion on one member and a housing member configured to lockingly receive the ratchet portion on the other member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Twin Bay Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert A. Werth
  • Patent number: 8328458
    Abstract: A sanitary clamp for connection to a pair of barb connectors each having one end terminating at a funnel shaped portion is described herein. The sanitary clamp includes a first member having a first semi-circular center portion disposed between a first end and a second end. A second member has a second semi-circular center portion disposed between a first end and a second end. Said first ends of the first and second members are configured to pivotally connect to each other, and said second ends of the first and second members include a locking mechanism for selectively locking the second ends of the first and second members in engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Twin Bay Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert A. Werth
  • Patent number: 7891902
    Abstract: An adapter is provided for coupling an output shaft of a servo to an auxiliary shaft. The adapter includes an adapter body having a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end. The adapter body includes a first bore centered on the longitudinal axis and extending into the first end a first distance. The first bore is configured to accept a portion of the auxiliary shaft. The adapter body also includes a second bore centered on the longitudinal axis and extending into the second end a second distance. The adapter also includes an engagement member positioned within the second bore. The engagement member is configured to accept and engage a portion of the output shaft of the servo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Robotzone, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Pettey
  • Patent number: 7726900
    Abstract: A system for providing a mechanical and electrical connection between the ends of two essentially-coaxial shafts (1 and 2), whereby each shaft end includes a groove (11, 12) close to an axial end extension (17 and 8; 18 and 9). Moreover, the aforementioned ends are connected inside a sleeve (10) including the following: a first annular shoulder (13) having a shape that is complementary to that of the groove of the first shaft, such that there is no clearance therebetween; a second annular shoulder (14) having a shape that is complementary to that of the groove (12) of the second shaft, but with a clearance therebetween; and a cavity (16) which is intended to receive the shaft ends, said cavity having an axial height which is greater than the sum of the axial heights of the axial end extensions (17 and 8; 18 and 9). Further, the axial end extensions (17 and 8; 18 and 9) of the two shafts are in permanent mechanical and electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: E.C.L.
    Inventor: Bernard Bourges
  • Patent number: 7637686
    Abstract: An exemplary, non-limiting swivel fitting attachment apparatus includes a ball fitting and a swivel fitting. The ball fitting includes a base having an attachment portion, such as a flange, arranged for attachment to a structure and a ball attachable to the base. The ball may be removably attachable or fixedly attached to the base. The swivel fitting has a first end having a socket portion that is arranged to receive the ball therein and a second end having an attachment portion that is arranged for attachment to an object. The socket portion of the swivel fitting may be expandable and closeable over the ball, and may include first and second socket portion members that are urgeable toward and away from each other. The second end of the swivel fitting may be couplable to a clevis fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey H. Wood, Lamvien H. Ngo
  • Patent number: 7607273
    Abstract: A building member including a male portion and a female portion that are releasably connected together. The male portion includes a first beam having a first pair of wings joined together by a first crosspiece. A first bracket has first opposed ends each of which is affixed to a respective one of the first pair of wings so as to define a first slot between the first crosspiece and the first bracket. A tongue has an inner end that is affixed to the first crosspiece and an outer end, remote from the inner end, which extends through the first slot and outwardly from the first beam. The outer end of the tongue is provided with a first hole. The female portion, however, has a second beam that is adapted for end-to-end abutment with the first beam. The second beam has a second pair of wings that are joined together by a second crosspiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew G. Henderson
  • Patent number: 7465157
    Abstract: The invention relates to a compact eccentric screw pump including a sliding articulation. The long-lasting operation of the pump is ensured by a plurality of functions. According to the invention, both the reaction pressure resulting from the transport pressure and the concomitant phenomena emerging from the eccentrically rotating rotor and acting on the articulation and the drive are approximately equalized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Netzsch-Mohnopumpen GmbH
    Inventor: Helmuth Weber
  • Patent number: 7371027
    Abstract: In a fastening tool in which fastening members may be inclined as they are threadedly inserted together whereby almost no displacement load is applied to the members, a member having a bolt through hole with a tapered seat surface, and a fastening bolt that includes a bolt body provided about its outer periphery with a male thread, and a head provided on an end of the bolt body that has a diameter greater than that of the bolt body, in which the head has a lower outwardly curved tapered surface whose diameter is reduced toward the bolt body so that the lower surface abuts against the tapered seat surface when the fastening tool is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Isel Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenji Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 7316518
    Abstract: A closure for cable connection capable of being readily assembled with fastening force of a sufficient level, rapidly accomplishing leading-out of a cable from a cable connection section and storage of the cable, and exhibiting enhanced airtightness while exhibiting increased reliability. The closure includes sleeve members and end plates. The end plates are each provided with slits which extend from cable guide holes to an outer surface of the end plate. Each cable guide hole is provided thereon with a thin-wall cap and the slit is detachably fitted therein with a rigidity holding member. An adhesive tape-like gasket is interposed between an outer periphery of the end plate and an inner surface of a sleeve so as to cover an outer end portion of the slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignees: Japan Recom Ltd., Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation
    Inventors: Daijiro Sasaki, Kinji Mineshima, Akira Nishimura, Koji Yamagiwa, Tetsuya Hoshijima, Yoshiyuki Yoshii
  • Patent number: 7299867
    Abstract: A hanger mounted within a bore of a tubular string component has a split ring, a tapered key and a passageway formed in the hanger. The split ring has interfacial surfaces cooperating with interfacial surfaces of the tapered key. The bore may be located within a tubular string component selected from pipe, drill pipe, doubled shouldered pipe, single shouldered pipe, drill collars, reamers, production pipe, composite pipe, well casing, risers, underground utility lines, rotors, positive displacement rotors, jars, shock absorbers, heavy weight drill pipe, hammers, and turbines. A conduit or electronic equipment may be disposed within the passageway. The passageway may be formed in the tapered key or in the split ring. A transmission element may also be disposed within a groove formed in the hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: IntelliServ, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Michael A. Briscoe
  • Patent number: 7118300
    Abstract: In a shaft coupling having a pair of complementally shaped, detachably joinable coupling sleeve halves (11, 12) which can be clamped together by means of clamping elements to form a split coupling sleeve provided with at least one seat (14) for a first shaft member (A1) which is to be non-rotatably connected with a second shaft member (A2, A2?) so that the first and second shaft members are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce AB
    Inventor: Istvan Bacskay
  • Patent number: 7044678
    Abstract: An anchoring rod for rock anchoring (self-drilling injection bolts), includes an outer thread for connecting the anchoring rod to a drilling tool via a coupling sleeve. The end of the anchoring rod, which is screwed into the coupling sleeve, comprises a section which has a reduced diameter in comparison with the outer diameter of the anchoring rod. The free end of the section of the anchoring rod with the reduced diameter comprises a bevel. An open space is thus formed between the inner surface of the coupling sleeve and the reduced diameter end of the anchoring rod. The space stops the anchoring rod from becoming stuck in the coupling sleeve, even when the end of the rod is plastically deformed during the drilling process, so that the anchoring rod can be unscrewed from the coupling sleeve without applying significant force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Atlas Copco MAI GmbH
    Inventors: Hannes Papousek, Herbert Papousek, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6991397
    Abstract: An improved dowel fastener for compressive insertion within a recess, bore or aperture in each of two joint members of wood, metal, plastic or combinations thereof to frictionally retain one joint member to the other. The dowel fastener includes a flexible, resilient, tubular body having a preferably spiral slot extending from end to end and at least one and preferably two spaced tabs at positions along the slot. The tabs each extend from one slot edge across the slot toward the opposing slot edge and engage the inside surface of the tubular body adjacent the opposing slot edge. The body provides a cylindrical exterior gripping surface for engagement with the sides of the joint apertures and is sufficiently flexible for compression from its normal, uncompressed diameter for insertion in a smaller fastening aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Modular Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Montgomery J. Welch
  • Patent number: 6883998
    Abstract: A connector for connecting elongate members, such as pile sections, in an end-to-end relationship. A housing is fitted to each end of a reinforcing bar in the elongate member. The housing has a first attachment socket at one end, the first attachment socket having an internal thread for accommodating helical protrusions formed on an outer surface of a standard reinforcing bar. A second attachment socket having a circular cross section is provided at the other end of the housing. Protrusions having a saw tooth cross section project inwardly from the second socket walls. The connector also includes an initially separate joining member which comprises a hollow cylinder having a short central portion with no protrusions therefrom and serrated sections extending from each end thereof, each having protrusions of a configuration corresponding to the configuration of the protrusions from the second attachment socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Global Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Bullivant
  • Patent number: 6830517
    Abstract: A rotating attachment device for attaching the upper end of a swing to a support bar generally comprises and inner bearing and an outer bearing. The inner bearing comprises at least two inner bearing arc segment members for direct placement on the cross bar, each including an outer side including a raceway including a radial bearing surface. The outer bearing includes a first and second semi-cylindrical outer bearing members including an inner side having a bearing surface, pivotly connected first ends such that the outer bearing is pivotable between an open position for fitting over the first bearing and a closed position bearing on the inner bearing such that the outer bearing is rotatable 360 degrees about the swing support bar, and second ends including a latch for latching the outer bearing around the inner bearing in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Ciraolo
  • Publication number: 20040218973
    Abstract: A rod clip for connecting a rod to a lever comprises a first portion and a second portion hinged to the first portion. The first portion has a top surface having a recess for receiving a rod, such that folding the second portion over the first portion forms a channel for retaining the rod. There are rod retaining tabs disposed above the channel for retaining the rod in the channel until the second portion can be snapped over the first portion. There is a lock for locking the first portion to the second portion after the second portion is folded over the first portion. There is a lever retaining device disposed on one of the two portions. The hinge is formed by apertures on sides of one of the portions and corresponding protrusions on the other. The protrusions extend into the apertures to allow pivoting of the first and second portions with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph Anscher
  • Patent number: 6808349
    Abstract: A fastener mechanism operable between an unlocked position and a locked position to securely fasten items of various sizes and shapes includes a first member and a second member each having a sidewall, a front wall, a rear wall and a receiving chamber disposed adjacent the front wall of each member. The second member contains a hollow interior and is slightly larger than the first member so that the first member can be inserted inside the hollow interior. The receiving chambers extend axially along each member and contain an opening and angularly disposed sidewalls forming an apex. To securely fasten the item, the first member is co-axially aligned with the second member so that the receiving chamber openings are oriented to form an aperture to receive the item. The first member is then slideably inserted into the second member hollow interior. As the first member is inserted inside the second member, the aperture reduces in size to grip and securely fasten the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: David C. Boling
  • Publication number: 20040190983
    Abstract: The clamp has two semi-circular sections that are adapted to be placed around an exterior surface of a gas cylinder and/or an associated shaft. Each section has a set of mirror imaged apertures adapted to receive securing elements to hold the clamp in a set position. In addition, a fastening element is provided to control delivery of tension to the cylinder, which controls extension of the shaft in communication with the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 6773198
    Abstract: A fixture for connecting two or more elongate bars in end to end relationship. The bars are provided with ribs on an external surface thereof. The fixture comprises a set of inner segments with formations to engage with the ribs on the bars. A set of intermediate segments and/or an outer sleeve is then positionable around the inner segments to maintain the same in position. The outer sleeve passes over the intermediate segments and mechanically engages the segments and members in the end to end relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Copping
  • Publication number: 20040091310
    Abstract: In a shaft coupling comprising a pair of complementally shaped, detachably joinable coupling sleeve halves (11, 12) which can be clamped together by means of clamping elements form a split coupling sleeve provided with at least one seat (14) for a first shaft member (A1) which is to be non-rotatably connected with a second shaft member (A2, A2′) so that the first and sec-ond shaft members are aligned. In a retaining device including retaining elements for positively locking the first shaft member (A1) against rota-tional movement relative to the coupling sleeve, the retaining elements in-clude a plurality of elongate force transmitting elements (16D) in the seat (14, 15). These elements extend along a line including an angle with a plane (L) perpendicular to the axis (C3) of the coupling sleeve and are shaped so as to be in interlocking engagement with complemental force transmitting elements (A3D) on the first shaft member (A1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Istvan Bacskay
  • Patent number: 6588042
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a brush section (2) for an electric toothbrush (1), having a carrier tube (4) to which is fitted a bristle carrier (5) comprising a plurality of bristles (6). The carrier tube (4) is adapted to plug onto a mount (7) of a hand piece (3) of the electric toothbrush (1). Provision is made for spring elements (14) arranged between the carrier tube (4) and the mount (7). Noises and vibrations are thereby reduced when the electric toothbrush (1) is in the activated condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Bruan GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Fritsch, Hansjörg Reick
  • Patent number: 6561723
    Abstract: A high tensile rod connector is provided that includes a first section having an internally threaded surface and a second section having an internally threaded surface. The threads of the first section mate with the threads of the second section. A pair of first flanges is rigidly coupled to the first section and extends outwardly therefrom. Similarly, a pair of second flanges is rigidly coupled to the second section. A series of bolts extends from the first flanges to the second flanges. The bolts are adapted to removably couple the first section to the second section. The first and second sections may be located on a damaged tie rod and secured thereto, thereby repairing the damaged tie rod without removing tension therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventors: Michael M. McCurdy, Rick Baker, Jerry C. Stefka
  • Publication number: 20030012596
    Abstract: A fixture for connecting two or more elongate bars in end to end relationship. The bars are provided with ribs on an external surface thereof. The fixture comprises a set of inner segments with formations to engage with the ribs on the bars. A set of intermediate segments and/or an outer sleeve is then positionable around the inner segments to maintain the same in position. The outer sleeve passes over the intermediate segments and mechanically engages the segments and members in the end to end relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Copping
  • Patent number: 6350077
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a clamping joint for joining a ramification line (15) to an anchoring wire (13), comprising a clamping mechanism comprising two halves (18) split in the longitudinal direction of the wire, which clamping mechanism clamps around the wire via one in each half provided wire channel half (20), whereby the wire channel (20) formed by the two halves is such dimensioned that it is in a position mounted around the wire (13) provides an interspace which is filled by a deformable insert (21) provided in said interspace for locking the clamping mechanism with regard to rotation around the wire, and that the clamping mechanism is provided with a sliding surface for a shackle (24) being arranged around the clamping mechanism which shackle forms a fastening point for a ramification line (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Björn Palmquist
  • Patent number: 6321503
    Abstract: A foldable member in the shape of a tube with at least one predetermined hinge area along the length of the tube, and a plurality of opposing elongated slots in the tube at the hinge area thereof forming separated longitudinal strips of tube material between the slots which fold when subjected to localized buckling forces. A collapsible structure constructed of such foldable members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Foster Miller, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter A. Warren
  • Patent number: 6308359
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a brush section (2) for an electric toothbrush (1), having a carrier tube (4) to which is fitted a bristle carrier (5) comprising a plurality of bristles (6). The carrier tube (4) is adapted to plug onto a mount (7) of a hand piece (3) of the electric toothbrush (1). Provision is made for spring elements (14) arranged between the carrier tube (4) and the mount (7). Noises and vibrations are thereby reduced when the electric toothbrush (1) is in the activated condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Fritsch, Hansjörg Reick
  • Patent number: 6283670
    Abstract: A closure system includes two longitudinally-extending shell members, each having flanges. Each of the flanges have inner and outer surfaces such that in a closed state the inner surfaces of each of the flanges contact one another to form at least one longitudinal seam. Several longitudinally extending ramp pairs are disposed on the outer surfaces of the flanges One ramp of each ramp pair is disposed on the outer surface of one flange and another ramp of each ramp pair is disposed on the outer surface of the other flange. The ramp pairs are inclined away from the longitudinal seam when viewed along a first direction. A clamping rail has an inner surface that includes a guide channel interlocking with the ramp pairs so that the first and second flanges compress the seam. Additional longitudinally extending ramp pairs can be disposed on the outer surfaces of the flanges, in which case a second clamping rail having an inner surface that includes a second guide channel interlocks with the additional ramp pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Jenny L. Blankinship, Michael L. Black
  • Patent number: 6213678
    Abstract: A hanger apparatus assembled by joining connectors to elongate rods, which connectors define an open side running the entire length of the channel with a rib opposite of the opening for strength and rigidity of the connector. Four openings define oblique angle edges, preferably with a 45 degree angle, for clearance open to four slots that are in line with another forming two opposing groups which allow a flattened end of a rod to be inserted, lowered, and snapped in place. Inserting a rod into both groups creates a simple, economical, and reusable connection of the two rods. Four tabs protrude into the channel with a center line just above the top of the rod to be inserted allowing the rod to be held firmly in the connector and creating a barrier that restricts the rod from starting to moving to a position perpendicular to the connector which is how the rod is inserted and taken out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventors: Mark D. Doelling, Michael C. Sacher
  • Patent number: 6196755
    Abstract: The invention provides a locking device for locking two matching lens cell halves of a lens cell. In particular, the invention resides in clips which are located at the joint where the two cell halves mate. The clips, which are molded as part of each cell half, are each comprised of a male member which is inserted into a female member. The male member includes a flexible tab which is deflected when inserted into the female member. After insertion, it is maintained in a deformed state, that is the tab is maintained by the female member so that it is bent from its original position. As a result, a bending moment is induced and maintained in the tab and that moment pushes the tab against an outer wall of the female member. Consequently, forces are established which lock the male member in place. Additionally, the wall of the female member exerts a force on the tab and that force, which is inwardly directed, serves to lock together the two halves and ensures retention of the lens units within the lens cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Livyn Obiajuru Okorocha, Wilton Ray Purvis
  • Patent number: 6146048
    Abstract: A connector and method for connecting two drywall corner finishing devices. The connector connects and/or aligns the two drywall corner finishing devices positioned end to end by being inserted into corresponding openings located in the profile of the drywall corner finishing devices. The side members of the connector are pinched in, reducing the size and shape of the cross-section of the connector so as to fit within the corresponding openings. When released the side members deflect back pressing out against the sidewall of the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Paul E. Stibolt
  • Patent number: 6135669
    Abstract: A cylindrical shape with a open channel running the entire length (7). Opposite of the channel is a rib (5) added for strength and rigidity of the connector. Four openings (1) with a 45 degree angle (2) used for clearance open to four slots (3). Each slot is in line with another forming two groups which allow a flattened end of a rod to be inserted, lowered, and snapped in place. Inserting a rod into both groups creates a simple, economical, and reusable connection. Four tabs (4) protrude into the channel with a center line just above the top of the rod to be inserted allowing the rod to be held firmly in the connector and creating a barrier that doesn't permit the rod to start moving perpendicular to the connector which is how the rod is inserted and taken out. The length and width (6) of the material can vary depending on the weight requirements. A coated or inherently corrosion resistant alloy or a plastic that can resist the eliminates of the outdoors is appropriate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventors: Mark D. Doelling, Michael C. Sacher
  • Patent number: 6109817
    Abstract: A coupling device joins and axially aligns segments of a driveshaft or other shaft to form one, continuous length, shaft for use in a machine press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: The Minster Machine Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Burns, John B. Bornhorst
  • Patent number: 6099196
    Abstract: A splice for concrete reinforcement bars includes two diametrically opposed half-shells spanning the aligned ends of the rebars. The half-shells interlock with upset bar ends to hold the bars together. An internally tapered sleeve is forced axially over the tapered exterior of the half-shells in a taper lock to secure the splice joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Dayton Superior Corporation
    Inventor: Harry B. Lancelot, III
  • Patent number: 6089779
    Abstract: A quick connect splice for concrete reinforcement bars includes two diametrically opposed half-shells spanning the aligned ends of the rebars. The half-shells interlock with raised ridges on the bar surfaces to hold the bar ends together. Two sleeve elements slipped over the bars are screwed to each other over the shell sections to secure the splice joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Dayton Superior Corporation
    Inventor: Harry B. Lancelot, III
  • Patent number: 6056472
    Abstract: A coupling member for interconnecting a hydraulic ejector cylinder, of injection molding equipment, with a mold ejector system to insure that the mold ejector system of the mold is properly activated and returned to its fully retracted position prior to commencing a further injection molding cycle. The coupling member comprises a first elongate stud which is releasably couplable to a second elongate stud to form the coupling member. The first elongate stud has a head, at one end thereof, and the second elongate stud has a stud recessed portion, at a mating end thereof, for at least partially receiving the head. A locking mechanism, carried by the second elongate stud, allows engagement and disengagement of the head from the stud recessed portion, when in a first position, and secures the head at least partially within the stud recessed portion, when in a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventors: Michael Leo Latulippe, Gerard George Normand
  • Patent number: 6000188
    Abstract: There is disclosed an assembly of board for floor boarding and means for fixing the same to adjacent boards, said board comprising a frame, of generally rectangular shape, suitable for accommodating therein a flooring surface, such frame comprising a first pair of opposite beams and a second pair of opposite beams connecting the first pair of beams. The beams of said first pair are provided, at least at their ends, with recesses suitable for housing clamps for coupling the board with adjacent boards. The recesses are associated to releasable snap engagement means that engage in respective seats provided for on the clamps to prevent the clamps from slipping out of said recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Sergio Cazzolaro
  • Patent number: 5997012
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the grip of a tubular chuck upon work, the chuck receivable in a bore formed by a holder, and comprising a rotatable connector member having first and second thread connections for exerting force transmitted to the chuck; the head connections characterized as differential, whereby as the member is rotated, the chuck closes toward the work, with high mechanical advantage; the chuck defining a first axis; the connector member defining a second axis generally transverse to the first axis, the axes being non-interconnecting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Frank J. Brian
  • Patent number: 5984421
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel rim has a rim base (1) carrying a pair of bead-retaining flanges (2, 4), one of which is on a bead seat ring (5) releasably retained, in use, on the rim base (1) by a locking ring (6) engaging in a groove (7) formed in a gutter section (3) of the rim base. The locking ring is shaped so as to cooperate with formations (5A, 9), respectively in the bead ring (5) and rim base (1) to provide a positive lock limiting relative rotation between the bead seat ring and rim base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Steel Wheels Limited
    Inventor: John Stephen Proctor
  • Patent number: 5967691
    Abstract: A quick-connect splice joint for concrete reinforcement bars. Two diametrically opposed semi-cylindrical shells span the adjacent bar ends. The two shells are held against axial displacement by mating to raised features such as ridges or threads on the bars, and are held radially by an outer sleeve. The splice is axially preloaded by nuts threaded on the bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Dayton Superior Corporation
    Inventor: Harry B. Lancelot, III
  • Patent number: 5938212
    Abstract: An adaptive holder for interconnecting a non-locking bit shaft in a locking bit chuck provides an elongate body having a locking bit shaft at a first end and a chuck connector at the second end. The locking bit shaft is of hexagonal cross-section with an annular fastening groove defined spacedly inward of its outer end. The body is formed of elastically resilient material. The chuck connector provides a second body end defining a hexagonal fastening channel and a threaded external surface operatively carrying an annular collet threaded from its inner end outwardly to a point spacedly distant from its outer end with plural imperfectly formed threads in its outer end portion to cause radially inward motion of the body second end to move along the imperfect threads to releasably fasten a non-locking bit in the channel. The second end portion of the body may define one or more slots extending through the body to the fastening channel to aid radial motion of the body to fasten a bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Scott L. Wadsworth