With Independent Handle Or Operator Patents (Class 403/33)
  • Patent number: 11723647
    Abstract: Syndesmosis fixation assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. A syndesmosis fixation assembly includes a suture retaining portion having a plurality of suture openings formed therein and a suture securing portion rotatably connected to the suture retaining portion. The suture securing portion is movable between a first position wherein a suture is moveable within the suture retaining portion and a second position wherein the suture is frictionally secured within the suture retaining portion. A bone insertion portion has a distal bone insertion end adapted for insertion into a bone, a proximal bone insertion end connected to the suture retaining portion, and a central longitudinal axis extending between the distal bone insertion end and the proximal bone insertion end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradford H. Rippe, Kevin Gahman, Peter Evans, James Gault, Zachary Shiner
  • Patent number: 11464507
    Abstract: A surgical instrument having an anchor and a plug is capable of anchoring a suture. The suture anchor has an anchor body having a top surface, a bottom surface distal to the top surface, a transverse bore and a well, the well having an outer surface, an inner surface, and an inner bottom surface. The plug has a post, a head, and a bottom face. The anchor body and the anchor plus form a suture anchor. The suture anchor may be used during surgical procedures and can be used in the re-tensioning of a suture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Inventor: Lee D. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 9970204
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a horizontal scaffold member having a primary end connector and a secondary end connector. Each end connector is configured to couple to a cup on a vertical scaffold member. Each end connector includes a wedge assembly having a handle and a wedge, movable with respect to the wedge head to a latched and unlatched position. The primary wedge assembly is connected to the secondary wedge assembly by a cable, and configured so that moving the primary wedge assembly to an unlatched position also moves the secondary wedge assembly to an unlatched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: Next Generation Scaffold Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Yates W. Hayman, Stephen Howard Thacker, Johnny Curtis
  • Patent number: 8827331
    Abstract: A hardware retention mechanism comprising a frame including a first guide shoulder and a pivot point; an actuator arm including a first guide post; and a first shape memory alloy wire strung between the first guide shoulder and the first guide post that rotates the actuator arm between a locked position and an unlocked position. The actuator arm is rotatable around the pivot point between a locked position and an unlocked position. In some embodiments, the frame may further comprise a second guide shoulder, the actuator arm may further comprise a second guide post, and a second shape memory alloy wire may be strung between the second guide shoulder and the second guide post that rotates the actuator arm between an unlocked position and a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Philip M. Corcoran, Eric A. Eckberg, Joseph D. Rico, Edward J. Seminaro
  • Publication number: 20140237793
    Abstract: Methods and systems for configuring a manual and/or automated processing system to conform to a contoured surface of a structure are disclosed. One example includes an automated processing system with a flexible rail configuration. One or more turnbuckles and/or other actuators configure and hold the flexible rail configuration into conformity with the surface (which could be flat or of a curvature) during processing by the automated processing system. Additionally, one or more combination suction-cup pressurized-air devices may be coupled to the flexible rail configuration for selectively attaching the flexible rail configuration to the contoured surface and also for selectively releasing and/or facilitating elevation and movement of the flexible rail configuration above and about the contoured surface. A multi-function end effector may be associated with the flexible rail configuration and be moveable relative thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: The Boeing Company
  • Publication number: 20140178121
    Abstract: A lever-type connector includes a housing body, a fitting operation lever including a rotation operation portion and a lever bodies, and a lock portion. An urging arm is provided in the lever-type connector. The urging arm is elastically deformed so as to abut against the lock portion in a fitting completion position. The lock portion includes an elastic arm portion extended from the housing body to the fitting completion position and an engaging portion provided on the elastic arm portion and configured to engage with the rotation operation portion at the fitting completion position. An initial shape of the elastic arm portion is set so that the elastic arm portion is deformed so as to put the engaging portion and the rotation operation portion into a pressure-contact state in a state where the rotation operation portion engages the engaging portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jun Kamiya
  • Publication number: 20140112699
    Abstract: A multiple quick connector (MQC) assembly is described herein. The MQC assembly includes a male sub-assembly that includes a plurality of quick connectors coupled to a first circular plate, and an actuator coupled to the first circular plate. The actuator is configured to actuate a shaft having a draw nut attached to an axial end of the shaft. The MQC assembly also includes a female sub-assembly that includes a plurality of couplers coupled to a second circular plate. Each of the couplers is configured to couple to a respective quick connector of the male sub-assembly. The second circular plate comprises an aperture disposed therethrough. Actuation of the shaft causes the draw nut to extend axially through the aperture, and to rotate with respect to the aperture to lock the male sub-assembly axially with respect to the female sub-assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Randolph Dale Lewkoski
  • Publication number: 20130302082
    Abstract: A loader coupler includes a body with spaced-apart inner rib mounts for mating respectively with ribs of a first type of attachment. The body also includes inner locking regions that are aligned with the inner rib mounts. Spaced-apart outer rib mounts are also provided on the body and are adapted to mate respectively with a second type of attachment. Outer locking regions are aligned with the outer rib mounts. A lock system is connected to the body and includes: (i) a first actuator operatively connected to left and right first lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right first lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions; and, (ii) a second actuator operatively connected to left and right second lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right second lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: PALADIN BRANDS GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Robert J. Sikorski, Anthony G. Seda
  • Patent number: 8556669
    Abstract: A cam lock that includes a cam body having a lobe-shaped working periphery and rotatable between a first locking position and a second unlocked position, a handle shaft mounted to the cam body for moving the cam body through a predetermined range of motion, and a cam shaft mounted to the cam body for pivotal movement relative to the cam body and having an end remote from the cam body for being fixed to a structure to be locked by a force applied against the structure. A bushing is mounted on the cam shaft and has an end proximate the cam body against which a locking force is applied when the cam body is rotated into its locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: David C. Hasty
  • Publication number: 20130259561
    Abstract: A collapsible tubular rod includes a socket body having an inner friction surface adjacent to one end thereof, and a tubular rod body coupled to the socket body and having a plurality of rod segments configured to be end-to-end engageable such that the rod body is convertible from a collapsed state to an assembled state in which the rod segments are successively engaged with one another by pulling of a connecting cord led through the socket and rod bodies. A releasably clamping member has a radially expandable tubular plug mating with and axially movable relative to the inner friction surface so as to be displaced from a normal position for gripping the connecting cord to an expanded position for tension adjustment of the cord when an actuator is actuated manually to move axially or radially.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Hsin-Yuan Lai
  • Publication number: 20130239382
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a joint of a crib and a method for releasing the joint. A flexible linkage unit is connected between the joints so that when one of the joints is released, the other joints are released by the linkage unit simultaneously. The top frame of the crib is able to be folded easily. The one action folding feature allows the user to fold the crib by one hand and hold the kid by the other hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: PAO-HSIEN CHENG
  • Publication number: 20130180495
    Abstract: A detachable power head (200) and a detachable equipment (500, 900) provided for hand held applications; such as a trimmer, blower, etc. The power head includes an internal combustion engine and a ring on the housing and a matching ring on the power equipment for easy attachment of the power head to the equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Jay S. Veerathappa, Sharu Rajgiri
  • Publication number: 20130178118
    Abstract: A cam lock that includes a cam body having a lobe-shaped working periphery and rotatable between a first locking position and a second unlocked position, a handle shaft mounted to the cam body for moving the cam body through a predetermined range of motion, and a cam shaft mounted to the cam body for pivotal movement relative to the cam body and having an end remote from the cam body for being fixed to a structure to be locked by a force applied against the structure. A bushing is mounted on the cam shaft and has an end proximate the cam body against which a locking force is applied when the cam body is rotated into its locking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: David C. Hasty
  • Publication number: 20130170114
    Abstract: An ejection mechanism includes a top cover, a bottom cover having a first sidewall and a second sidewall, and a sliding assembly. The sliding assembly includes a sliding block and an elastic rod. The sliding block defines a containing groove which is divided into an insertion rail and an ejection rail. The sliding block is configured to move back and force between the first and second sidewalls. A first distal end of the elastic rod is fixed in a fixing hole of the first sidewall. When the card is inserted into the ejection mechanism, the second distal end slides along the insertion rail until the second distal end is locked in a joint of the insertion and ejection rails. When the second distal end of the elastic rod disengages from the locked position by an external force, the second distal end slides in the ejection rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
  • Publication number: 20130045073
    Abstract: A loader coupling system includes an arm coupler and a link coupler. The arm coupler includes first and second plunger pins located respectfully at opposite first and second ends of the body. At least one plunger actuator is operatively connected to the first and second plunger pins, and the plunger actuator is selectively operative to move the first and second plunger pins between a retracted position and an extended position. The link coupler includes a tilt link with a first end adapted to be pivotally connected to a control link of the associated loader machine and a second end including a hook adapted to selectively engage and retain a cross-pin of the associated attachment. A lock system is connected to the tilt link and is adapted to selectively capture the cross-pin of the associated attachment in the hook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Adam Bricker, Anthony Seda, Robert Sikorski
  • Publication number: 20120315121
    Abstract: A counterweight attachment and removal system includes a machine mounting bracket and a link having two spaced apart arms. A proximal end of the link is pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket. A rotate cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket and a distal end pivotably coupled with a distal end of the link. A slide cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the link and a distal end pivotably coupled with a lift pin. The lift pin is positioned through slots defined by the two spaced apart arms. The counterweight attachment and removal system includes a first configuration in which the link is pivoted away from the machine mounting bracket, the rotate cylinder is retracted, the slide cylinder is extended, and the lift pin is positioned through distal portions of the slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Praveen Halepatali, Ha-Rok Bae, Kazushige Okamoto, Hiroaki Ando, Yozo Nakamoto, Chris Ha
  • Publication number: 20120308294
    Abstract: A hardware retention mechanism comprising a frame including a first guide shoulder and a pivot point; an actuator arm including a first guide post; and a first shape memory alloy wire strung between the first guide shoulder and the first guide post that rotates the actuator arm between a locked position and an unlocked position. The actuator arm is rotatable around the pivot point between a locked position and an unlocked position. In some embodiments, the frame may further comprise a second guide shoulder, the actuator arm may further comprise a second guide post, and a second shape memory alloy wire may be strung between the second guide shoulder and the second guide post that rotates the actuator arm between an unlocked position and a locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Philip M. Corcoran, Eric A. Eckberg, Joseph D. Rico, Edward J. Seminaro
  • Publication number: 20120263518
    Abstract: A clamping apparatus has a shaft (2) mounted in a housing element (1). The shaft (2) is rotated about an axis of rotation. One end of the shaft (2) is connected to a drive mechanism (3) disposed in the housing element (1). The other end of the shaft (2) is connected to an actuating element (4), in a torsion-proof manner. The shaft (2) implements a rotational and translational movement to the actuating element (4). The shaft (2) is mounted so that it can be displaced perpendicular to the axis of rotation in a guide element (5) connected to the drive mechanism (3). The guide element (5) is rotatably mounted in the housing element (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: David Martin
  • Publication number: 20120076569
    Abstract: A device for enabling locking/unlocking of a member including a latch on/out of a structure including a housing for receiving an active portion of the latch, including: a cylindrical sheath coaxially receiving a first hollow rod capable of rotation relative to the revolution axis of the sheath and including an upper end capable of interaction with the latch of the member, and a second coaxial rod inside the first hollow rod, capable of rotation and translation respectively along and relative to the revolution axis of the sheath and including an upper end capable of interaction with the active portion of the latch so as to actuate the same into a functional locking or unlocking position; a mechanism for enabling rotation of each of the two rods relative to the sheath revolution axis independently from each other; and a mechanism for enabling rotation of the second rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: RENAULT SAS
    Inventor: Michel Ecochard
  • Publication number: 20120003031
    Abstract: A connecting rod with a handle comprises a connecting rod and a handle between which two bearing assemblies are disposed to allow the connecting rod to rotate relative to the handle smoothly. At both sides of each of bearings of the respective bearing assemblies are provided two protecting plates which can protect the connecting rod against the impact, avoiding the damage to the bearings, reducing the part damage probability and extending the service life of the connecting rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Su-Lan LU
  • Publication number: 20110318091
    Abstract: A connecting device (10) is provided for releasably connecting a fitting piece, such as an interior lining, to a supporting structure, such as a fuselage. The connecting device (10) includes a plug-in holding mechanism (50) including a bushing piece (52) and a connecting pin (75) that can be releasably locked therein. A bent connecting arm (60), to which the connecting pin is fastened, is releasably fastened to a structural holder (40) mounted on the supporting structure. In one position, the connecting arm (60) is plugged into the structural holder (40) and is releasably locked therein. In a second position (125), in which the connecting arm (60) is rotated 180° about the longitudinal axis thereof, an electrical contact device (90) is additionally inserted between the connecting arm (60) and the bushing piece (52).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: SFS INTEC HOLDING AG
    Inventors: Sascha Costabel, Markus Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110308056
    Abstract: A method of releasing a work attachment from a coupler (2), wherein the work attachment is secured to the coupler via two pins held within two jaws (5, 7), the method including the steps of: (a) moving a jaw (7) to release a first pin (b) changing the orientation of the coupler (2) and work attachment relative to each other (c) moving the jaw (7) in the opposite direction to that in step (a); characterised by the step of: (d) moving the jaw (7) in the opposite direction to that in step (c) characterised in that the action of step (c) moves a safety link (17) to a release position, thereby allowing a locking portion (10) to release a second pin from a jaw in step (d).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Jeremy Glen Doherty, Paul James Doherty
  • Publication number: 20110305501
    Abstract: A system for docking an electronic test head with a handling apparatus is provided. The system includes an assembly for at least partially aligning and subsequently bringing together the electronic test head and the handling apparatus. The system includes a power driven actuator for powered bringing together of the electronic test head and the handling apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: inTEST Corporation
    Inventors: James B. Wood, Bryan M. Porch
  • Publication number: 20110271507
    Abstract: A force multiplying member (30) is mounted rotatably on supports of a first housing (10) and is guided slidably relative to the first housing (10). In a connecting process of the two housings (10, 20), the force multiplying member (30) successively performs a rotational movement that displays a force multiplying action by causing tracks (39) for rotational movement and cam followers (23) to slide and a sliding movement that displays a force multiplying action by causing tracks (40) for sliding movement and the cam followers (23) to slide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: Masayoshi Takatsu
  • Publication number: 20110223459
    Abstract: A method for securing and releasing a battery pack from a battery bay of an at least partially electric vehicle is disclosed. The battery bay includes multiple latching units each separately controllable and have a latch configured to couple to the battery pack. The method includes actuating each of the latching units to rotate its respective latch to engage or disengage with the battery pack. The method includes measuring a position of each respective latch of the latching units; and individually controlling each of the latching units based on the position of its respective latch to synchronize the positions of all latches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: Yoav Heichal
  • Publication number: 20110217110
    Abstract: The system of the present method, system, and device comprises a mechanism for linking components including: a rod having a widened and elastically deformable end; an axially movable needle; and a body surrounding the interacting ends of said rod and said needle; and a control device acting on said needle and capable of switching said widened elastically deformable end from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Fabien Argillier, Francois Durand
  • Publication number: 20110211904
    Abstract: A retractable locking mechanism comprising a lever having a handle end opposite a rotation end and a pivot point positioned between the handle end and the rotation end such that the lever pivots about an axis of rotation of the lever; a first cam positioned on the rotation end of the lever; an actuator with a front end and a back end, the front end attached to the pivot point of the lever; a lack disposed adjacent to the actuator and the lock having a first end and a second end and an axis of rotation of the lock and wherein pivoting the lever moves the actuator along a plane of the actuator to contact and rotate the lock in one of a locked state and an unlocked state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: Methode Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandros Pirillis
  • Publication number: 20110170251
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing problems and disadvantages associated with attaching portions of equipment chassis to the remainder of the equipment are provided. An information handling system may include a housing, a cover configured to at least partially enclose the housing, and an engagement assembly fixedly coupled to the housing. The cover may include an open slot having an opening and a projection. The may have a bearing movable relative to the housing, the bearing configured, when moved, to pass through the opening to engage with the projection to couple the cover to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: DELL PRODUCTS L.P.
    Inventors: Charles D. Hood, III, Matthew McGowan
  • Publication number: 20110150560
    Abstract: A fastener (10) is adapted to releasably fix a first element (12) and a second element (14). The fastener (10) includes a channel (22) having a plurality of spaced lockers (28). The lockers (28) are movable into the channel (22). The fastener (10) also has a locking tongue (30), having a plurality of spaced blockers (32). The tongue (30) is movable within the channel (22) between a locked position in which the blockers (32) prevent movement of the lockers (28) into the channel (22) and an unlocked position in which the lockers (28) are not prevented from moving into the channel (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Dickory Rudduck, Lee David Blattmann, Geoffrey David Sizer
  • Publication number: 20110116903
    Abstract: A loader attachment mounting apparatus for movable work vehicles, which is used for mounting a work attachment, such as a bale gripper, a bucket or a hook, to the front end of a loader that is movably installed on the front surface of the movable work vehicles, such as a tractor. A loader equipped with the loader attachment mounting apparatus is also provided. In the loader attachment mounting apparatus, an attachment can be easily attached to and easily detached from the attachment mounting apparatus and the attachment mounted to the loader can be easily movable to the left and right, thus improving work efficiency and work reliability of the movable work vehicles. The apparatus includes left and right attachment coupling brackets connected to the loader, and an attachment transfer device including left and right attachment coupling units connected to the attachment coupling brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Joong-Ho Kim
  • Publication number: 20110097137
    Abstract: A device for securing an add-on to a support comprises a back wall (3) and a front wall arrangement (14) which is resilient with respect to the back wall (3) and which, when the device is arranged as intended, comes into engagement with an insertion opening provided in an edge region of the support. The device according to the invention comprises a manipulation structure (15, 16, 21) by which, to release the engagement, the front wall arrangement (14) can be moved toward the back wall (3) with the aid of a tool that is introduced through a tool channel (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: A. RAYMOND ET CIE
    Inventor: Uwe Spitz
  • Publication number: 20110091268
    Abstract: A driving assembly includes a body having first and second sides and an outer periphery extending between the first and second sides. A through-hole extends through the outer periphery of the body and receives a rod. A receiving groove is formed in the outer periphery and has an opening in the first side. A control groove is formed in a bottom face of the receiving groove. A driving portion extends from the first side of the body and includes a limiting groove receiving a limiting member and a positioning hole receiving a positioning member. A control member is received in the control groove and includes a control end received in the receiving groove. The control member is operable by a user to move the positioning member through transmission by the limiting member, allowing engagement with or disengaging from a workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Publication number: 20100329774
    Abstract: A connection device for detachably and strongly fixing two connection target members has two confronting lever members configured to swing about a fulcrum member, a screw hole formed in the lever member of the confronting lever members and an insertion hole, through which a screw passes, formed in the other lever member. Both the lever members are caused to approach each other by screwing the screw into the screw hole so that locking portions of the lever members are displaced so as to be moved upward through the fulcrum member constituting a fulcrum portion. A fixing device main body is fixed to one of connection target members by a screw passing through the fulcrum member and the locking portions are locked to the other connection target member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Takeo Komamura
  • Publication number: 20100289296
    Abstract: An attachment device (1) includes: a female member (25); a male member (29) which is capable of insertion into the inner cavity (27) of the female member (25) in an insertion direction; a blocking member (31) which is movable relative to the female member (25), inside the inner cavity (27), between a rest position and an operative position for blocking the male member (29) relative to the female member (25). The attachment device does not have an actuator capable of moving the blocking member (31) from its rest position to its operative position, the blocking member (31) being movable from its rest position to its operative position by an actuator arranged outside the inner cavity (27).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: FAURECIA INTERIEUR INDUSTRIE
    Inventor: Christian Brancheriau
  • Publication number: 20090277531
    Abstract: Method for filling at least one compressed gas tank with at least one gas, wherein a reference pressure gas tank is formed in which a measurement can take place of at least one measurement variable which is relevant for the state in the reference pressure gas tank, wherein the compressed gas tank and reference pressure gas tank are flow-connected at least at times, wherein each compressed gas tank and the reference pressure gas tank have in each case one opening through which a gas can be filled and extracted, wherein in a filling process, at least one gas is filled through the opening into the at least one compressed gas tank and at least at times into the reference pressure gas tank, is characterized in that a measuring sensor is inserted through the opening into the reference pressure gas tank, and at least one measurement variable is measured by the measuring sensor at least during a part of the filling process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: L'AIR LIQUIDE, SOCIETE ANONYME POUR L'ETUDE ET L'EXPLOITATION DES PROCEDES GEORGES CLAUDE
    Inventors: Johann Pongraz, Ulrich Klebe, Randolph Kunkel
  • Publication number: 20090226242
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting at least one waste receptacle. In at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus comprises a block having a first block surface and a second block surface opposite the first block surface, at least one first prong projecting from the first block surface, at least one second prong projecting from the second block surface, and a retaining bar projecting from the first block surface, wherein the at least one first prong is approximately parallel to the at least one second prong.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Charles E. Larman
  • Publication number: 20090052980
    Abstract: An improved scaffold connection for engagement of scaffold members to support members. The connection employs a ring member engaged to the vertical scaffold member. A rotatable latch member engages a lower surface of the ring member to maintain a hook or support portion of a latch body on the upper surface of the ring member. A locking member rotationally engaged to the latch member, is gravity activated to rotate and engage the latch body to hold the latch member engaged to the ring member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Joe W. Williams
  • Publication number: 20080081234
    Abstract: A gating device (100) and associated method (900) for identifying a fuel container (101) used to refill a fuel cell (102) are presented. A fuel source identification device (103) identifies a fuel container (101) to verify that it is compatible with the fuel cell (102). Upon identification, a gating engine (105) opens a retractable barrier (106), thereby providing access to the fuel cell (102). The gating engine (105) moves the retractable barrier (106) from a closed position to an open position when a control circuit (803) indicates that the fuel container (101) is compatible with the fuel cell (102). The fuel container identification device may be an impedance detector (201), a connectivity detector (301), a barcode reader (401), a memory reader (501), a radio-frequency identification device (601), a label reader (701), or other similar device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: David A. Winkler
  • Patent number: 7185556
    Abstract: A tie rod jam nut includes a tubular body having an axial bore for receiving a tie rod. A locking portion at a first end of the body can engage the tie rod and a threaded portion of a connecting component attached to the tie rod to lock the connecting component to the tie rod as the locking portion is rotated in one direction and disengage the tie rod to unlock the connecting component when rotated in an opposite direction. An engagement portion is spaced distally from the locking portion toward a second end of the tubular body. The engagement portion can be rotated to remotely rotate the locking portion between the locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: James C. Beattie
  • Publication number: 20040035227
    Abstract: The present invention is an interface between a piece of baggage and a preconcentrator. The baggage-preconcentrator interface is able be secured to the opening in the baggage, such as an opening created by a zipper. The baggage-preconcentrator interface provides a convenient entry point from which to extract air from the interior of baggage. The shape of such interface corresponds to that of the preconcentrator, which collects constituents of air. The preconcentrator is inserted into the baggage-preconcentrator interface and an air sample is extracted from the interior of the baggage and through both the interface and the preconcentrator. As the air is extracted, the constituents of air collect in the preconcentrator. After collecting the constituents, the preconcentrator is inserted into a testing unit capable of detecting trace amounts of explosives, such as an ion trap mobility spectrometer. The testing unit analyzes the constituents and determines whether any of them are explosive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: William C. Allen, Leighton Ige
  • Patent number: 6676324
    Abstract: A device for fixing an interior covering in vehicles, more particularly for motor vehicle doors. An integrated adapter is provided in the interior covering through which a fastener can be operated for fixing the interior covering and/or a component part fixed on the interior covering to the bodywork part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Eberhard Pleiss
  • Patent number: 6554636
    Abstract: Apparatus for use at an end of a cable in an underwater or severe environment, comprising a connector part for connection with the cable and adapted to be brought axially into engagement with another connector part, the connector part having a laterally directed fitting for connecting the cable thereto, and the apparatus further comprising a handle secured to the connector part at a location rearwardly of the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Tronic Limited
    Inventors: Simon J. E. Walker, Ian G. Wilkinson, Gillian A. McKinnon
  • Patent number: 6250842
    Abstract: A device for the releasable fastening of seats, bench seats or other objects on a floor of a motor vehicle, comprising a locking part, and a mating locking part which can be fastened to the floor. The locking part is movable by overcoming a spring force from a locking position, in which it cannot be uncoupled from the mating locking part, into a release position in which it can be uncoupled from the mating locking part. A blocking element, upon the uncoupling, retains the locking part in the release position by a positively locking interengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Ewald Witte GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Norbert Krüger
  • Patent number: 6247867
    Abstract: A coupling for engaging and disengaging a drive means (12) from a driven member (10), the coupling comprising a stress absorbent coupling member (20), a shaft (22), operably connected to a drive (12), and an actuating member (28), the coupling member being slidably mounted on the shaft (22) such that on operation of the actuating member (28), the coupling member is caused to slide along the shaft (22) between a first position at which the drive is disengaged from the driven member and a second position at which the drive engages the drive member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Norncott Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Ian McKenzie Speer
  • Patent number: 6193432
    Abstract: A hook and unhooking coupling device for enabling a user to easily attach or remove a latch hook from a boat or other object. The inventive device includes a pole member, and an engaging member having an opening and a tongue member secured to the distal end of the pole. The engaging member comprises a first member secured to a second member having an open V-shaped cross sectional area. A first edge is secured to the first member and a second edge is secured to the second member while leaving the opening unobstructed. The engaging member is removably positionable about the eyelet member of a latch hook for opening the spring latch while simultaneously retaining the latch hook firmly thereby allowing the user to manipulate the pole member so that the latch hook is positioned about a desired hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: William R. Kampfert
  • Patent number: 5622443
    Abstract: A coupling is disclosed for coupling two objects together and which includes two elements. A first element is adapted to be attached to one of the objects which is a tube by a ball-shaped member inserted into the interior of the tube. The second element is also adapted to have the other of the objects attached to it and includes a first side opening and a second opening. In order to couple the two elements together, the first element is moved sideways through the first side opening of the second element. The first opening flexes to permit passage of the first element into a cavity of the second element where it is held with a portion of the first element extending through the second opening of the second element. A cam is also provided on the first element which cooperates with the first side opening of the second element when the elements are coupled together to cause the first element to be discharged from the cavity of the second element upon rotation of the elements relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Dancing Angels, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Lampert, Cary Hamilton
  • Patent number: 5421220
    Abstract: An auxiliary handlebar of bicycle comprises a main body provided centrally with a spherical connection portion having a connection slot dimensioned to fit securely over one end of the handlebar of a bicycle. The connection portion extends in one direction to form a curved rod having a tapered joint of hollow construction. The connection portion further extends in a direction opposite to the curved rod to form a straight rod. The spherical connection portion provided with a split groove extending to reach the bottom of the connection slot. Located respectively by both upper and lower sides of the split groove are a through hole and a threaded hole engageable with a bolt which can be so tightened as to fasten securely the main body of the auxiliary handlebar with the handlebar of the bicycle. A rotatable rod of the auxiliary handlebar is adjustably fastened to the tapered joint of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Inventor: Chau-Fwu Chen
  • Patent number: 5394594
    Abstract: A ball locking device having a ball locking mechanism releasably attachable to a receptacle to lock the device thereto until released. The device has a handle which is removably attached to,the device so that the handle can be changed for another. The handle may be of a non-metallic material whereas the main components of the ball locking mechanism may be of metallic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Assignee: Avibank Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Duran
  • Patent number: 5301570
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an auxiliary handle to a handlebar of a bicycle includes a tubular member having a partition plate which divides the tubular member into a first section which clamps the handlebar and a second section which has a first engaging member. A cylindrical member has a first end inserted into the second section of the tubular member. The cylindrical member has a blind bore and a second engaging member which engages the first engaging member of the tubular member in order to prevent the cylindrical member and tubular member being rotated with respect to each other. A bolt has a threaded end connected to the partition plate and an enlarged end. A spring member is disposed between the enlarged head of the bolt and the bottom of the blind bore of the cylindrical member, urging the first and second engaging members to engage each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Min-Tsung Li
  • Patent number: 4872274
    Abstract: A removable tooth with an adapter, said tooth having a wear-subject section that is as thick as possible in relation to the overall mass. The adapter being exposed to only a little wear. The transmission of force from the point of the tooth to a cutting wheel by way of the adapter, minimizes the need for securing mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Hoesch Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Dieter Giersch, Hans-Werner Rickmann, Ulrich Wibbeling