Spring Biased Manipulator Patents (Class 403/325)
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Patent number: 4988361Abstract: A turntable for an artificial limb provides a rotatable joint which enables the limb to be turned into the cross-legged position. The turntable includes two relatively rotatable plates and axially moveable means for locking one plate relative to the other in one position.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1989Date of Patent: January 29, 1991Assignee: JE Hanger & Company LimitedInventor: John E. Cooper
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Patent number: 4986690Abstract: A connector assembly adapted to quickly connect and disconnect tools and stem sections in wireline tool strings. Connector assembly (10) comprises box end (12) and pin end (14) adapted to be slidably engaged and locked by rotating either end 90.degree. relative to the other in either direction. Connector assembly (10) is released by the direct application of manual force to ears (48, 50) of locking plate (38) accessible in flutes (26, 27) of box end (12). Once the locking plate is retracted, pin end (14) is rotated 90.degree. in either direction relative to box end (12) and then withdrawn axially from box end (12). Flats (130, 131) are provided on box end (126) and pin end (128) to indicate relative rotational alignment. Disclosed also are provisions for limiting the rotation of axially spaced lugs (138, 140) before the lugs are axially aligned with annular channels (142, 144).Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1990Date of Patent: January 22, 1991Assignee: Otis Engineering Corp.Inventor: Andrew G. Cooksey
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Patent number: 4976174Abstract: An attachment to a socket wrench and the like carries a rocker arm in a recess in the body of the attachment. The rocker arm rocks about a shaft inserted transversely of the arm in a pair of apertures in the attachment body. At one end of the arm a compression spring seated in a concavity in the attachment body urges a detent carried on the other end of the arm to enter through an opening into the engaging receptacle at the other end of the body.A nut forced into the engaging receptacle cams the end of the detent outwardly of the receptacle, and when the nut is seated, the action of the spring on the arm causes the nut to be retained. By simply pressing on the arm against the spring, the spring may be further compressed to release a nut in the engaging receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1989Date of Patent: December 11, 1990Inventor: Arthur Walsh
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Patent number: 4960344Abstract: A locking mechanism for fixing an outer part (5) on an inner part (4) having locking members (8) which are guided in apertures (7) of the outer part so as to be radially movable in a limited way. In the locking position, these locking members (8) are supported radially outwardly on a locking ring (10). A control ring (16) retains the locking ring in the open position. For this purpose, the control ring (16) is displaced eccentrically and is supported on a stop (19) associated with the outer part (5). By inserting the inner part (4), the control ring (16) is aligned coaxially by the control members (8) so that a spring (12) loading the locking ring (10) can act to move the control ring (16) across the stop (19) so that the locking position is achieved.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1989Date of Patent: October 2, 1990Assignee: Jean Walterscheid GmbHInventors: Hubert Geisthoff, Klaus Kampf
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Patent number: 4957387Abstract: A spline joint includes an externally splined shaft end and an internally splined hub end engaged therewith. The shaft end has an annular groove around the spline portion wherein a plurality of locking balls may ride. The hub has the same number of holes as there are locking balls, each of which hole is adapted to receive a locking ball. A sliding sheath surrounds the hub. This sliding sheath has an annular projection and an annular groove in axially spaced relation around its internal face. The annular projection presses against the locking balls when the spline joint is in operation. The annular groove embraces a polygonal spring, the spring having the same number of sides as the number of locking balls. The center of each side of the polygonal spring presses against a lock ball from a radially outward position and prevents the lock balls from going out of position when the spline joint is being detached.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1988Date of Patent: September 18, 1990Assignee: K.S. Sanoyas Co. Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Nasu
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Patent number: 4943182Abstract: The rapid fastener is adapted to achieve a connection in the axial direction and in rotation of two elements and more particularly torque-transmitting shafts. It comprises at the end of one of the elements a socket (8) which is provided with at least one helical slot (14, 16) and on which is axially slidable a ring (18) defining at least one longitudinal slot which is laterally offset relative to the entrance (14) of the helical slot. The ring (18) is biased by a spring (24) toward the entrance of the socket (8). The second element has a stem (4) provided with a driving pin (6) which, in entering the helical slot, urges back the ring but is guided under the action of the spring (24) and the edges of the two slots toward the inner end of the helical slot and is then locked in this position without clearance.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1989Date of Patent: July 24, 1990Assignee: ECIA - Equipments et Composants pour l'Industrie AutomobileInventor: Andre Hoblingre
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Patent number: 4930932Abstract: A retractor system having a plurality of quick release retractor blades. The retractor system includes a shaft cooperating with the retractor system for positioning a selected one of the quick release retractor blades. The quick release attachment mechanism is distributed between the shaft and the blades, the shaft having a first end thereof adapted for attachment to a selected quick release retractor blade. A pair of grooves extending longitudinally from the first end along opposite sides of the outside of the shaft. A retaining groove grids the shaft spaced from the first end. Each retractor blade has a pair of tongues disposed in a plane and oriented inwardly toward one another. A torsion spring is attached to each blade and a flange extends from the torsion spring through the plane of the tongues. An aperture through the flange is sized and positioned to admit the shaft with the longitudinal grooves engaging the tongues.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1989Date of Patent: June 5, 1990Assignee: Minnesota Scientific, Inc.Inventor: Bruce A. LeVahn
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Patent number: 4929113Abstract: A knuckle joint in which a first piece with an eye enters a jaw between two corresponding projections of a second piece having a first and a second eye respectively formed therein, and is retained by a pin member, wherein the pin member comprises a pin having a first end with a button fixed thereat and a second end. The pin passes through the eye of the first piece, which then retractably protrudes the button out from the first eye of the second piece and extends the second end to a position near the second eye of the second piece. A stopper has a protrusion which is passed through the second eye of the second piece, extending into the eye of the first piece, and joined with the second end of the pin. A slide block is passed through by the pin and inserted within the eye of the first piece, retractably protruding into the first eye of the second piece.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1989Date of Patent: May 29, 1990Inventor: Yin-Ping Sheu
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Patent number: 4927286Abstract: This connection has, on one of two shafts, a hollow socket (1) which is connected to a driving block (16) whose inner surface forms a frustum of a pyramid for receiving a pyramidal head (24) connected to the second shaft. Furthermore, the socket (1) carries retractable pins (6) urged toward the interior by an elastic system (12, 8) but retained in an outer position by an inner ring (14) which is displaced by the elongated stem of the second shaft when it is fitted in the socket. Notches (30) for receiving the pins (6) are provided on the stem (22) and contribute to the axial locking of the two shafts.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1988Date of Patent: May 22, 1990Assignee: ECIA - Equipements et Composants Pour L'Industrie AutomobileInventors: Andre Hobluigie, Jean-Pierre Barnabe, Frederic Mouhot
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Patent number: 4909658Abstract: A quick safety release for bull ropes and bare back riggings. One ring on the bull rope is held to the release device by a first ring latch which is pivoted to a release frame. A pivoted spring-loaded latch arm which in its normal position is perpendicular to the ring latch holds the ring latch in position preventing it from rotating about its pivot. A release line or cord is connected to the latch arm. When the bull rider pulls the release line the latch arm is pulled away from the ring latch permitting it to come unlatched from the ring of the bull rope.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1989Date of Patent: March 20, 1990Inventor: Blue H. Townsend
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Patent number: 4906123Abstract: This invention relates generally to a coupling system for releasably attaching any one of a number of robotically controlled tools (robotic "hands") to a robotically controlled extension arm. The coupling system tightly locks the hand to the robotic arm by combined air and spring pressure such that, even under heavy duty use, the hand will not unintentionally twist or move relative to the arm, yet the hand and arm may be quickly disengaged by release of locking air pressure and imposition of unlocking air pressure which enables ball means to be cammed out of locking engagement.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1988Date of Patent: March 6, 1990Assignee: Wes-Tech, Inc.Inventors: Robert Weskamp, M. Richard Tennerstedt
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Patent number: 4900181Abstract: A locking device (6) for connecting a driveshaft (4) to a power take-off shaft (2) includes a coupling sleeve (7) mounted on the driveshaft in which locking members (12) are guided which lock the coupling sleeve against axial movement relative to the take-off shaft. A locking sleeve (14) is movable on the coupling sleeve (7) to lock the locking members (12) against movement or release them. A latch arrangement is provided to latch the locking sleeve in its release position during connection. The latch arrangement includes a stop (24) extending inwardly from the locking sleeve (14) and engageable with a stop (19) on the coupling sleeve (7) by tilting the locking sleeve on the coupling sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1989Date of Patent: February 13, 1990Assignee: Jean Walterscheid GmbHInventor: Hubert Geisthoff
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Patent number: 4900182Abstract: A lock and release apparatus comprises an integrally cooperating bar and collar combination which provides a variety of gripping and releasing arrangements; wherein the bar of such combination defines a plurality of circumferentially alternating surfaces, including at least one flat surface and one arcuate surface; and, wherein the collar of such combination defines a ball and cam relationship which cooperates with the arcuate surface of the bar to provide a gripping action between the bar and collar, which is releasable by variety of arrangements made functional by the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1989Date of Patent: February 13, 1990Assignee: Stillwagon Applied Techonology IncorporatedInventor: Woodrow C. Stillwagon
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Patent number: 4896986Abstract: A connecting mechanism is formed by providing grooves having angularly disposed slopes in a rotary member in a position facing the outside of guide grooves provided in a housing for engaging endoscope fitting pins and providing an energizing device biasing the rotary member for rotation in one direction so that the endoscope may be locked and fitted by the simple operation of pushing in the endoscope forward through an open end of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1987Date of Patent: January 30, 1990Assignee: Olympus Optical Co, Ltd.Inventor: Toshiki Terayama
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Patent number: 4865277Abstract: An aircraft flight control stick is mounted on a gimbal which provides left, right, forward and aft pivotal motion of the stick. A pivot member that is mechanically linked to the aircraft flight controls is attached to the gimbal through a uni-ball bearing which allows the pivot member to pivot independently of the control stick. A bell-shaped housing is slidably mounted on the control stick. The housing is spring-biased downward toward the pivot member so that a stud protruding upward from the pivot member plugs into a socket in the housing. A lever assembly mounted on the control stick and attached to the housing can be actuated to slide the housing away from the pivot member, thereby unplugging the stud from the socket to disengage the control stick from the aircraft flight controls. The downward facing housing circumscribes all possible motion of the stud while the control stick is disengaged. Release of the lever assembly allows a spring to urge the housing downward toward the stud.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1987Date of Patent: September 12, 1989Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Andrew Smith, Frank Wolstencroft
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Patent number: 4865485Abstract: A socket extension is set forth with a release mechanism for an included lock ball wherein the release mechanism is positioned on side of the lock ball and an included safety wedge is positioned on the opposite side of the lock ball aligned with the release mechanism. The safety wedge is resiliently biased against the lock ball by a captured spring therebehind and the safety wedge being displaced upon displacement of the release mechanism to disengage said lock ball from an associated socket.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1988Date of Patent: September 12, 1989Inventor: James A. Finnefrock, Sr.
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Patent number: 4859110Abstract: A coupling device suitable for connecting an externally splined power take-off stub shaft to a corresponding internally splined yoke with a universal joint. The coupling mechanism includes an automatic release to the locked position and locks axially onto the shaft by way of locking balls. A collar with flexible tabs is manually rotatable to the unlocked position and is triggered to rotate to the locked position by the locking balls. When the externally splined shaft is inserted into the internally splined yoke, the end of the shaft trips the balls causing the flexible tabs in the collar to move radially outward, releasing the collar which rotates to the locked position. The collar rotates camming the balls on a formed metal ring inside the plastic collar to the locked position. Rotation is produced by a fully enclosed torsional spring connected to the collar and the yoke and prevents over-rotation in either direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1988Date of Patent: August 22, 1989Assignee: Neapco, Inc.Inventor: Philip J. Dommel
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Patent number: 4850734Abstract: A lightweight tool coupling device for coupling a tool shank to a drive spindle is disclosed. A tool coupling housing is rigidly secured to the drive spindle and includes spring biased plungers which cooperate with axial grooves on the tool shank to prevent rotational movement of the shank relative to the drive spindle.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1988Date of Patent: July 25, 1989Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: John R. Naumec, Wayne K. Armstrong
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Patent number: 4842815Abstract: Device for locking a guide ring on a plate having an orifice comprising a tubular intermediate piece (22) fastened rigidly to a plate (20) so that its central orifice (36) is coaxial with the orifice (32) in the plate (20), receptacles (28) machined radially in the intermediate piece (22) and separated by passages open towards one end of the intermediate piece, and attachment parts (39) which match the receptacles (28) of the intermediate piece (22) and which are associated with the guide ring (21). The invention is used particularly for locking the guide ring of an extension piece on a guide tube of a light-water nuclear reactor.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1986Date of Patent: June 27, 1989Assignee: FramatomeInventors: Claude Cauquelin, Pierre Poitrenaud
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Patent number: 4836707Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a releasable clamping apparatus (10) is constructed having an opening or slot (14) within which a lifting handle (28 or 30) is clamped between retaining latch portions (62, 64) and a clamp assembly (34). The latch portions (62, 64) are supported by openings (56, 58) and are retracted and extended into a slot (14) by spring biased linkage members (78, 80). These members (78, 80) are acted upon by similarly profiled cam lobes (116, 116a, 118, 118a). Dissimilarly profiled cam lobes (126, 128) of the cam member (110) act upon the clamp assembly (34), clamping a handle (28 or 30) against faces (68) of the latch portions (62, 64). The cam member (110) is coupled to a shaft (162) having an operating handle (32), with the shaft (32) also being provided with a detent assembly (202). This detent assembly (202) locks the handle (32) and the shaft (162) in "locked" positions (38 or 40) in the surface (198) of the apparatus (10), which clamps a handle (28 or 30) as described.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1987Date of Patent: June 6, 1989Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: W. Neill Myers
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Patent number: 4830035Abstract: A foldable walker includes a pair of side walking legs pivotally mounted on a pair of T joints, a front transverse bar secured between the two T joints, a pair of foldable links each pivotally connected between each T joint and each side walking leg, and a pair of seesaw controllers each fixed on an outer tube of a link and seesawly biasing a locking button resiliently retained in an inner tube of the link, whereby upon the depressing of the button by the seesaw controller, the inner tube will be telescopically received within the outer tube when folding the side walking legs toward the front bar, thereby resulting in a simpler, quicker and more convenient folding operation of the walker.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1987Date of Patent: May 16, 1989Inventor: Antony Ching-Fong Liu
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Patent number: 4815780Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for detachably connecting a tool to a manipulating device, e.g. an industrial robot. The apparatus includes a tool holder and a coupling member fastened to the robot. The coupling member has a free frontal surface on which the tool holder rests. A plurality of air channels and electric contacts merge into the free frontal surface in a peripheral region thereof. Four projecting centering pins are provided in the center of the free frontal surface. The tool holder is provided with correspondingly located air channels and electric contacts as well as with a centrally arranged centering disc which is rigid in circumferential direction and axially resilient. The disc has apertures in which the centering pins enter when the tool holder is fixed to the coupling member. Thus, the tool holder is precisely centered and all pneumatic and electric connections are automatically established.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1988Date of Patent: March 28, 1989Assignee: Erowa AGInventor: Basil Obrist
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Patent number: 4813810Abstract: A coupling device in which a shaft or pipe is coupled to a boss member in which balls, disposed in radial holes in the boss, engage a groove on the shaft or pipe. A set ring slidable on the boss selectively forces engagement of the balls with the groove. The set ring is biased in both direction toward the apertures. The bias can be provided by one or two spring rings engaging two oppositely inclined surfaces on either the boss or the set ring or by a coil spring set between two spring supports that are each moved by both the boss and the set ring.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1986Date of Patent: March 21, 1989Assignee: Matsui Walterscheid Ltd.Inventor: Tsunehiko Suzuki
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Patent number: 4794828Abstract: The mechanism, used in a ratchet wrench, includes a body carrying an integral stud. A bore extends axially into both and an actuator rod is reciprocally mounted therein. A transverse bore in the stud slidably holds a pin which is linked to the rod. A socket is applied to the mechanism by pushing the socket against a camming surface on the pin to enable the socket to be snapped onto the pin without operating the actuator. The socket is removed by depressing the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1983Date of Patent: January 3, 1989Assignee: Snap-on Tools CorporationInventor: Gene E. Olson
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Patent number: 4793053Abstract: The present invention provides a quick disconnect coupling for a work tool to a machine. The invention in its preferred embodiment provides a coupling having fluid and electrical connections and also providing alignment independent of the locking mechanism. The present invention also is advantageous in that the locking mechanism is protected from the environment when the coupling halves are not mated and also prevents a false lock-up unless the halves of the coupling are mated and aligned.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1987Date of Patent: December 27, 1988Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Dante C. Zuccaro, Frederick A. McCurdy
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Patent number: 4792255Abstract: An improved coupling assembly between an actuating member and a shaft is disclosed. It is comprised of locking means on the actuating member for engaging with the shaft in order to secure the actuating member thereto. In addition, an actuating means for actuating the locking means to allow removal of the actuating member is provided. Groove and key means between the actuating member and the shaft is provided to allow the member to be removed longitudinally thereof while preventing rotation of the member about the shaft when the locking means is engaged with the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1987Date of Patent: December 20, 1988Assignee: Med-Ex Diagnostics of Canada Inc.Inventors: James McArthur, Steven E. Hodge
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Patent number: 4778487Abstract: Device for assembling the framework of a temporary exhibition stand; characterized in that the uprights (8) comprise at their top ends longitudinal slots (8.sub.3) situated in the bottom of dovetailed grooves (8.sub.1), the said slots (8.sub.3) terminating at the top end of the uprights which is adjacent the end of the top cross-member which is to be assembled and in that a hub (19) is disposed in these slots, the hub comprising at least one heel (22) disposed transversely in a dovetailed groove (8.sub.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1987Date of Patent: October 18, 1988Inventor: Guy G. Chenel
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Patent number: 4768405Abstract: A socket wrench having an extension and a quick-release mechanism is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1987Date of Patent: September 6, 1988Assignee: Qualicorp Ltd.Inventor: Michael F. Nickipuck
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Patent number: 4749301Abstract: A removable coupling device comprising a boss member with a central axial hole and radial holes opening into the axial holes containing locking balls which engage with a circumferential set groove of a shaft inserted into the axial hole. The boss member has inclined surfaces sloping radially inwardly and away from the apertures. An axially movable set ring selectively forces the balls, into the holes and has a spring ring engaged with a groove of the set ring and radially inwardly presses the inclined surface so that the set ring automatically returns to the position in which the balls lock the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1986Date of Patent: June 7, 1988Assignee: Matsui Walterscheid Ltd.Inventor: Tsunehiko Suzuki
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Patent number: 4740122Abstract: In a rapid release chucking device, particularly for drills, including a machine spindle (1) and a tool head (2) attached thereto in a manner secure against rotation, wedge faces (9) are provided at the circumference of a spreadable ring element (14). In the unspread state, this ring element lies withdrawn in an annular groove (15) surrounding the spindle end (3). A control slide (16) is mounted in the spindle (1) so as to be axially displaceable by an externally initiated displacement movement. A plurality of spreading elements (18) lie in openings (17) which radially penetrate the spindle end (3) and open into the annular groove (15). Axial displacement of control slide (16) causes the openings to be urged radially outwardly toward the inner ring wall (19) of the ring element (14). At the same time, the inner wedge faces (9) of the ring element are urged against a corresponding, conical inner ring flank (24), into position where the wedge is tightened.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1986Date of Patent: April 26, 1988Assignee: Hertel Aktiengesellschaft Werkzeuge & HartstoffeInventor: Franz Glaser
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Patent number: 4738033Abstract: A mount on the probe head of a coordinate measuring machine is described. For rapid change of a probe pin carrier, accommodating at least one probe pin, which is drawn against a bearing which clearly determines the position of the probe pin carrier in the probe head, a mechanical clamp mechanism, which acts on the bearing part of the probe pin carrier, and compression-creating and tension-creating media, actuating the clamp mechanism, are provided in the probe head.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1986Date of Patent: April 19, 1988Assignee: Ernst Leitz Wetzlar GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Ferber, Erich Schuster
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Patent number: 4734252Abstract: A temperature responsive, self-actuated nuclear reactor shutdown control rod assembly 10. The upper end 18 of a lower drive line 17 fits within the lower end of an upper drive line 12. The lower end (not shown) of the lower drive line 17 is connected to a neutron absorber. During normal temperature conditions the lower drive line 17 is supported by detent means 22,26. When an overtemperature condition occurs thermal actuation means 34 urges ring 26 upwardly sufficiently to allow balls 22 to move radially outwardly thereby allowing lower drive line 17 to move downwardly toward the core of the nuclear reactor resulting in automatic reduction of the reactor powder.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1986Date of Patent: March 29, 1988Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventor: Konstantin Bilibin
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Patent number: 4726615Abstract: Disc handling device is configured to pick up, retain and release discs for compact disc players, and the like. The disc handling device has a body from which depend two flexible arms sized to grasp and release the edges of the disc. The body has a central plunger for centering the handling device and for releasing the retention fingers in the compact disc storage box. A first actuator on the body moves the arms to grasp position, and a second actuator moves the arms to a release position.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1986Date of Patent: February 23, 1988Inventor: Lewis B. Goldberg
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Patent number: 4724576Abstract: An improved handle of a pot is proposed which can be turned to its inoperative position over the pot to occupy less space during storage or transit. In use, the handle is locked in its operative position. It has a handle body and a metal fitting secured to the pot. The handle body has a tubular portion extending downwardly and the metal fitting has a tubular portion extending upwardly to receive the tubular portion of the handle body so that the handle body can be turned with respect to the metal fitting and thus to the pot within a limited angle.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1986Date of Patent: February 16, 1988Assignee: Nitto Aluminium Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shunji Tatematsu
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Patent number: 4721125Abstract: A height adjustable crutch comprised of a one piece member which can serve as the combination of the bow and the carrier without any bolt and pins used in conventional types for securing them, so the structure of the height adjustable crutch is simpler and stronger than the conventional types that we can find today.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1986Date of Patent: January 26, 1988Inventor: Mei-Chin Wang-Lee
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Patent number: 4702667Abstract: A compliant coupling mechaism has a first part (10) connectable to a robot arm (A) and a second part (20) connectable to a robot gripper (G). The mechanism is arranged to allow displacement of the second part relative to first part along a ZZ axis direction, and to allow further relative displacement along and/or about (XX) and (YY) axis directions. A locking device (40) prevents such further relative displacement unless a displacement along the (ZZ) axis direction exceeds a preset amount.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1986Date of Patent: October 27, 1987Assignee: EMI LimitedInventors: Godfrey N. Hounsfield, Anthony M. Williams
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Patent number: 4687076Abstract: A segment connector to connect two segments of a modular ladder which have through holes near ends of the segments includes: a connector housing having a top open end, a bottom open end, and a side wall, the connector housing being sleeved partially over one of the two segments through one of said top and bottom open ends; a rivet insertable through rivet holes in the connector housing and the sleeved segment to pass completely therethrough to fix the connector housing sleevedly on the segment; a hook means rotatably mounted on the rivet inside the segment, the hook means including a releasing button means; and a spring means wound around the rivet and connected to the hook means to bias the hook means to project out of the connector housing; wherein, when the connector is further sleeved on the other of the two segments, the hook means normally is biased to pass holes of the segment and to project out of holes of the connector housing means, whereby the segments and the connector are firmly engaged together,Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1986Date of Patent: August 18, 1987Inventor: Nan-Hsing Tu
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Patent number: 4679806Abstract: This invention discloses an improvement in and relating to the banisters of baby carriage, in which three segments of banisters, i.e., left-hand banister, right-hand banister and front banister, are engaged in a locking relationship in such way that the front banister may be freely assembled and disassembled at front ends of left-hand and right-hand side banisters. The assembling and disassembling procedures are simple and convenient. Moreover, after the front banister is disassembled the left-hand and right-hand side banisters keep a smooth and neat appearance without any other accompanying disassembled elements.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1986Date of Patent: July 14, 1987Assignee: Te-Chin Handicraft Enterprise Co., Ltd.Inventor: Lin Gingline
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Patent number: 4671697Abstract: An apparatus for mounting an electromagnetic unit on a frame includes a mounting recess at the bottom of the main body of the electromagnetic unit, a guide recess which is communicated with the mounting recess at one side thereof so that it is normal to the mounting recess, and a slidable member which is slidably inserted into the guide recess and normally biased toward the mounting recess by means of a spring supported by a projection disposed in the guide recess, the improvement comprising a stopper disposed in a hole formed in the slidable member, which opposes the spring bearing in the guide recess. The stopper in the hole also serves as a spring guide.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1985Date of Patent: June 9, 1987Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Isao Ando, Hiroaki Tazawa, Yuji Sako, Shigeharu Ootsuka, Yuji Mizuno, Kosaku Ikeda
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Patent number: 4657427Abstract: System of coupling of the head of a drive unit to the body of a driven unit, characterized in that, the head bears a longitudinal key having two slopes inclined in relation to the axis of the head, and the body has a guiding or key-way groove for this key, this groove opening on an annular clearing in which a segment can be rotated against a spring and in which a pin is fastened radially, so that, while the key is engaged, this pin, by cooperation with the first of the slopes controls the rotation of the segment, then by cooperation with the second slope controls the blocking of the head in its driving position, and the segment can also be operated by hand so as to free the pin and allow the withdrawal of the head by drawing the key rearwardly.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1985Date of Patent: April 14, 1987Assignee: Micro-MegaInventor: Jacques Pernot
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Patent number: 4647089Abstract: A bolt of a dead bolt lock is moveable between a locking position and an ocking position by application of a pressurized fluid. In both the locking and unlocking positions a plurality of locking balls are urged into locking engagement with a locking groove and are maintained in such locking engagement by a resiliently urged locking cam without the necessity for maintaining the pressurized fluid once the required condition is attained. Application of the pressurized fluid unlocks the bolt, displaces it to its alternate position and locks it in place.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1984Date of Patent: March 3, 1987Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Roy A. Zangrando
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Patent number: 4645372Abstract: A power transmitting coupling includes a hub member such as a yoke and a shaft such as a splined shaft fitted therein axially slidably but nonrotatably relative to each other, and detent balls accommodated in the hub member and partially extending into a ball setting groove of the shaft for preventing the shaft from removing from the hub member.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1985Date of Patent: February 24, 1987Assignee: Matsui-Walterschield Ltd.Inventor: Tsunehiko Suzuki
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Patent number: 4640301Abstract: A locking assembly is disclosed which is suitable for releasably locking two articulated pivoting members in a fixed position with respect to each other. The locking assembly comprises a spring biased reciprocating latch, a plunger attached to the latch, and a catch plate adapted to rotate into locking engagement therewith. The plunger and latch are preferably integral with each other, so that the latch contains a minimum number of moving parts. The latch is designed so that simple palm pressure will cause it to disengage from the catch plate, to permit the pivoting members to move with respect to each other. The present locking assembly is of simple design and inexpensive manufacture, and is durable in use. The locking assembly is particularly applicable for use in invalid appliances such as collapsible walkers, where the users have limited manual dexterity.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1985Date of Patent: February 3, 1987Assignee: Tubular Fabricators Industry, Inc.Inventors: Joseph D. Battiston, Sr., Joseph Battiston, Jr.
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Patent number: 4639162Abstract: In a mechanism for connecting together in torque transmitting engagement a coupling sleeve and a power takeoff shaft, particularly in agricultural implements, there is provided a drawing lock which may be arrested in the open position. The drawing lock includes a locking ring which holds a plurality of radially movable torque transmitting balls in their locked position during torque transmission of the assembly. A slotted spring ring is provided which engages the torque transmitting balls to hold them radially inwardly thereby to arrest the device in the open position. When a power takeoff shaft is inserted into the bore of the coupling sleeve, the torque transmitting balls are moved radially outwardly and, as a result, the slotted spring ring resiliently expands in diameter thereby to cause a first stop face of the ring to become disengaged from a supporting face of a supporting ring which is axially affixed to the coupling sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1986Date of Patent: January 27, 1987Assignee: Jean Walterscheid GmbHInventors: Hubert Geisthoff, Theo Buthe, Felix Mikeska
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Patent number: 4637749Abstract: An apparatus for connecting first and second physiological instrument components. The first component has an exterior first surface, and the second component has an exterior second surface. The apparatus comprises means forming a plurality of mutually parallel blades extending outward at the first surface at an acute angle with respect to a direction normal to the first surface, and means forming a plurality of mutually parallel slots extending inwardly at the second surface at the acute angle with respect to a direction normal to the second surface. The slots are sized and spaced to receive the blades to thereby connect the components. Latch means are provided for selectively latching one of the blades in its corresponding slot, and for preventing unlatching of the components when only one of the components is supported. In a preferred embodiment, the acute angle is approximately 75.degree..Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1985Date of Patent: January 20, 1987Assignee: Physio-Control CorporationInventors: Paul W. Jones, Rodney J. Merry, Gregory A. Linstad
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Patent number: 4637914Abstract: A quick release guide sleeve assembly comprises an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve axially slidably received in the outer sleeve and having first and second axial positions with respect to the outer sleeve; and a locking mechanism movably mounted on the outer sleeve for frictionally engaging wall surfaces defining an opening for receiving the outer sleeve. The locking mechanism has a locking position in which at least part of the locking mechanism projects radially outwardly beyond the external circumferential surface of the outer sleeve. The locking mechanism further has a releasing position in which the locking mechanism is in a radially inwardly withdrawn state relative to the circumferential surface of the outer sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 1984Date of Patent: January 20, 1987Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.Inventors: David E. Boyle, James R. Chrise
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Patent number: 4636135Abstract: Tool-holder B f6r gripping and changing tools for an industrial robot suitable for fixing to a rotary wrist-joint (5) of a robot arm, intended to carry one tool at a time. This tool-holder B comprises an upstream part C able to be fixed to the wrist-joint (5), a downstream part D able to be fixed to a tool (E1, . . . ) and remaining integral with the latter at each tool change, the two parts C and D being equipped with additional means for assembly and for rapid locking as well as unlocking and with detachable connectors (28, 32; 29, 37) for supplying the tool (E1) with fluid and electricity, the upstream part C containing a jack (7, 22) capable of displacing the locking and unlocking components (25, 41, 42, 14, 15, 16), and the downstream part D can be arranged in a tool magazine with the associated tool. The one-piece nature of the tool gripped in the tool-holder B ensures ease and speed of the robot's arm movements in space, maximum robot reliability, as well as rapid and powerful locking and unlocking.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1984Date of Patent: January 13, 1987Assignee: Societe SysproInventor: Georges R. Bancon
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Patent number: 4626125Abstract: A lock pin assembly for a collar bracket which is capable of engaging and releasing a member to be fixed. The lock pin is generally of cylindrical shape having, at one end, a neck portion of a small diameter, a pair of parallel excisions adjacent to the neck portion, the boundary between the neck portion and the excisions forming a shoulder, and, at the opposite end, a tapered tip. The collar bracket is provided with a pair of outwardly extending flanges, each having a hole for housing a pair of respective lock pins in opposite orientation. The lock pins are freely rotatable in the flange holes and are biased rearward by springs. A plate with a U-shaped cut-out is provided adjacent each flange for engaging the shoulder of each respective lock pin when the lock pin is moved forward against its bias and then rotated. When the lock pin is moved inward and rotated to such position, its tapered tip engages the member to be fixed.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1985Date of Patent: December 2, 1986Assignee: Hoshino Gakki Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshihiro Hoshino
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Patent number: 4619542Abstract: A locking mechanism for a divided grip rod of a foldable baby carriage permits automatically locking the grip rod in an unfolded state and this locking can be canceled by a simple operation. The grip rod (2) is divided into two portions (2a, 2b), which are interconnected at their ends while being supported for rotation around the axes of parallel rotary shafts (6). Lateral surfaces of the ends of the portions of the grip rod intersect the rotary shafts. Each lateral surface has a locking recess (12). A locking plate (4) is movable axially of the rotary shafts so that it can fit simultaneously in the two locking recesses when the grip rod is in its straight state. The locking plate is urged by a spring in the direction in which it fits in the locking recesses for normally maintaining the locked state. An unlocking member (5) is provided to for disengaging the locking plate from the locking recesses against the force of the spring to permit folding of the grip rod.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1985Date of Patent: October 28, 1986Assignee: Aprica Kassai KabushikikaishaInventor: Kenzou Kassai
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Patent number: 4616952Abstract: A shaft coupling joining together a coupling sleeve and a power takeoff shaft, wherein a plurality of locking bodies guided in radial openings in the coupling sleeve engage within an annular groove in the power takeoff shaft to axially retain the members coupled together. An axially movable lock ring holds the locking bodies in engagement within the annular groove and when in the released position a gripping sleeve axially fixed with the lock ring, but rotatable relative thereto extending about the coupling sleeve, is engaged within the radial openings of the coupling sleeve to hold the coupling in the released position.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1986Date of Patent: October 14, 1986Assignee: Jean Walterscheid GmbHInventor: Wilhelm Schott