Socket Patents (Class 403/361)
  • Publication number: 20120087723
    Abstract: A manual quick-release latching system includes a first component and a second component. The first component includes a first component mating surface, a socket recessed into the first component and having an opening on the first component mating surface; and a first component retaining structure. The second component includes a second component mating surface, a second component retaining structure, and a latching mechanism. The mating surfaces are juxtaposed when the first component is slidingly engaged with the second component. The retaining structures slidingly engage one another in a first direction and interlock one another in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. The latching mechanism includes a part that can partially extend from the second component and enter the socket of the first component, to latch the first component with the second component by preventing the first component from sliding with respect to the second component in the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Richard Shafer, William Robertson
  • Patent number: 8142098
    Abstract: Technology which enables a first member and a second member to be firmly fastened together is provided. A bar-shaped section is formed on the first member, a hole is formed in the second member, and the bar-shaped section of the first member is pressure fitted into the hole of the second member. Here, peak sections which extend intermittently in the axial direction or peak sections which extend obliquely with respect to the axial direction are formed in a repeating fashion in the circumferential direction, on the side face of the harder of the bar-shaped member and the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, MEG Inc.
    Inventors: Yu Hashimoto, Yoshihiko Ukai, Keiichi Matsunaga
  • Patent number: 8132990
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a rotatable device, which may be a keyless chuck, a keyless chuck adapter, a collet chuck, a collet adapter, a set screw bit retaining chuck, or a set screw bit retaining adapter. The rotatable device is configured to be mounted to a power tool for rotational driving of the rotatable device. The rotatable device is configured to receive a first bit device detachably mounted in the rotatable device for powering rotational movement of the first bit device. A mounting section having at least one flat secant side is defined on the rotatable device, which is capable of being rotatably driven by the power tool. The mounting section includes at least one locking mechanism on it. The generally cylindrical mounting section is adapted for insertion in and engagement with a bit holding attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Lynn E. Bauman
  • Publication number: 20120034088
    Abstract: An apparatus may comprise a housing, a first member, and a second member. The housing may have a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, an opening located in the first end, and a passage extending from the opening. The first member may extend from the first side. The first member may have a first channel in communication with the passage and the channel has a first center axis. The second member may extend from the first side. The second member may have a second channel in communication with the passage and the second channel has a second center axis substantially aligned with the center axis of the channel in the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Neal W. Muylaert, Lyndon Claudius Lamborn
  • Publication number: 20120034839
    Abstract: A connector element for a space structure of a type utilizing a plurality of struts. The connector element includes first and second subparts, at least one strut receiving element having a strut receiving socket emanating from each of the subparts, the subparts being rotatable with respect to one another along a common axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Michael Murphy
  • Publication number: 20120014746
    Abstract: A t-joint assembly includes a gasket having first and second ends, and a substantially elongated body having a profile. The first end includes an enlarged tapered section having a distal tip and a force-transfer surface disposed substantially perpendicular to the body. The assembly also includes a first component having a channel with a profile and a reaction surface configured to respectively complement the profile and accept the force-transfer surface of the gasket. The first component also has a first sealing surface arranged substantially parallel to the reaction surface, and a second sealing surface arranged substantially perpendicular to the reaction surface. The t-joint assembly additionally includes second and third components, each having a sealing surface. Inserting the gasket into the channel and assembling the three components compresses the gasket against the channel, and the tip of the gasket against the reaction surface, to thereby seal the t-joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Carl E. Fonville, Eric A. Nordling
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8066455
    Abstract: A connection system which produces an aligned connection between first and second tool parts includes a spigot projecting from the first tool part, and a spigot-receiving recess formed in the second tool part. The spigot and the recess have correspondingly shaped, non-circular cross-sections. The spigot is not oversized relative to the recess, and may be smaller than the recess, so that the spigot can be inserted into the recess without the recess being expanded or the recess being compressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Sandvik Intellectual Property AB
    Inventors: Jens Neumann, Peter Frank
  • Patent number: 8062463
    Abstract: An improved design and a method of assembly of end fittings to sucker rods which may be of conventional length or continuous sucker rods is described herein. The end fittings and rods are assembled so as to form wedges which enhance the connectability of the end fitting to the rod, and further, the wedge or wedges approach the rod asymptotically so as to avoid any abrupt discontinuities in the wedge or wedges thus substantially eliminating stress concentration areas and potential failure areas in the rod. The assembly method provides for integrity in the rod to end fitting assembly to promote longer connection life and fewer shop rejections and field failures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Fiberod, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell P. Rutledge, Sr., Russell P. Rutledge, Jr., Richard D. Burchett, Floyd L. Brownfield
  • Publication number: 20110280653
    Abstract: A connector includes a canted coil spring, a multi-piece housing, and an insert element. The multi-piece housing includes a first housing part defining a bore of the housing, and a second housing part connected to the first housing part and comprising a tapered wall defined by a first section of the second housing part with a first inner diameter and a second section of the second housing part with a second inner diameter greater than the first inner diameter. A groove is formed in the bore by the connection of the first housing part with the second housing part, the groove having at least a portion of the canted coil spring disposed therein and having a tapered side wall formed at least partly by the tapered wall of the second housing part. The insert element is insertable into the bore to engage the canted coil spring for connection with the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Rob Sjostedt, Hugh Cook, Farshid Dilmaghanian
  • Publication number: 20110272422
    Abstract: The inside wall of a fuel tank, and a sub-component are provided with locking means in the form of complementary formations that allow the sub-component to be coupled to the inside surface of the fuel tank wall. Interlocking of the complementary formations is achieved by moving the sub-component towards the wall providing angular movement to the sub-component relative to the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Jeff Yager, Daniel Butum, Kent T. Salvilla, William Matthew Foster, Daniel Hall, Billy L. Downey, JR.
  • Patent number: 8038160
    Abstract: A children's ride-on toy includes at least two casters. The ride-on toy has a first caster mount connected to the body, wherein the first caster mount comprises a first caster receptacle, and a second caster mount connected to the body, wherein the second caster mount comprises a second caster receptacle. In at least one embodiment, the first caster has an engagement shaft that is uniquely adapted to engage the first caster receptacle, and the second caster has an engagement shaft that is uniquely adapted to engage the second caster receptacle. In at least another embodiment, a first bushing rotatably engages the first caster and is uniquely adapted to engage the first caster receptacle, and a second bushing rotatably engages the second caster and is uniquely adapted to engage the second caster receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Radio Flyer Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Seckel, Charles Hartlaub
  • Patent number: 8037649
    Abstract: A step assembly that is specifically adapted to assist pets in reaching and/or descending from elevated surfaces is provided. The step assembly has two sidewalls having a plurality of openings in which pegs formed on the sides of individual treads and risers are engaged. The pegs are removably insertable into the openings and include protrusions which create an interference fit upon insertion. Because the treads, risers and side walls are joined by interlocking pegs and openings, the step assembly can be flat packed for shipping, and is easily assembled and disassembled for transportation and/or cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Vermont Juvenile Furniture Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Jakubowski, Scott S. Jakubowski, Todd M. Jakubowski, Guang-Sheng Lin
  • Publication number: 20110241405
    Abstract: A connector includes a first component having a socket and a first catch portion and a second component having a post and a resilient arm having a second catch portion. The post is shaped to be received in the socket. The second component is moveable along an axis relative to the first component from a first position wherein the resilient arm is biased such that the second catch portion is in a non-engaged position to a second position wherein the second catch portion is in an engaged position relative to the first catch portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: James D. Slagh
  • Publication number: 20110210153
    Abstract: A safe is provided comprising a main box having a predetermined size, such that the safe may also be used as a step; a lockable flip lid pivotally connected to the inside of said main box; a top lid, pivotally connected to the upper edge of said main box such that it disguises the said flip lid, and configured such that it is capable of being used as a step; and means for locking the safe to the hitch of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Anthony Vicente, Philip Andrew Litwa
  • Publication number: 20110206452
    Abstract: A locking coupler for a drive shaft and a method therefor. The coupler includes a male and a female member, each including a male and a female coupler end and an opposite male and female shaft end. The coupler ends have a non-circular portion adapted to releasably receive the male coupler end within the female coupler end such that the ends have limited axial rotation relative to one another. The coupler also includes a detent cooperatively engageable with the male and female members to lock the male and female ends together. The detent is a button operable between an extended position and a depressed position, and a cooperative recess that receives the button when the button is in the extended position. The female coupler end includes a bore sidewall with a recessed portion, and the recessed portion and the button cooperate to provide a quick-connect relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: John F. Bently
  • Patent number: 8001664
    Abstract: A shoe comprising a shoe upper including a male member and a shoe sole including a female receptor for locking with the male member. The male member locks with the female receptor by moving the male member with respect to the female receptor in a first direction, which locks the shoe upper with the shoe sole. The male member unlocks from the female receptor by moving the male member an additional distance further in the first direction, which unlocks the shoe upper from the shoe sole. The female receptor includes resilient arms to hold and release the male member and a stop to prevent movement of the resilient arms in a second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Convertible Shoe, LLC
    Inventor: Frank Gerald Pearce
  • Publication number: 20110194895
    Abstract: A safety connection assembly for a curtain cord divided into two segments has a male connection member and a female connection member. The male connection member is securely mounted on one end of one segment and has an insert formed on one side thereof, and a protruding engagement part formed on an outer wall of the insert; the female connection member is securely mounted on one end of the other segment to be connected and has a cavity formed in one side thereof to hold and engage the insert of the male connection member, and a recessed engagement part annularly formed in an inner wall of the cavity. When a child's neck is strangled by the curtain cord, the male connection member and the female connection member can be easily detached from each other by the child or others when pulled by a force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Yung-Ching Lai
  • Publication number: 20110176866
    Abstract: A wooden connection absent of metal fasteners or tools to assemble or disassemble. Parts are pressed together by hand with normal pressure. To disassemble merely pull apart with normal pressure. Continuous assembly and disassembly is assured with this connection design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald A. Miserendino, Scott Brammer
  • Patent number: 7972463
    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: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fiberod, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell P. Rutledge, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20110150567
    Abstract: Providing manual mechanical drive to the high pressure sub assembly of a turbojet, in particular during endoscopic inspection of the high pressure turbine. According to the invention, a coupling element suitable for coupling with an external actuator such as a crank handle is fitted on the axis of a specific alternator that is normally driven mechanically via the high pressure sub assembly, thereby providing a coupling suitable for driving said high pressure sub assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: SNECMA
    Inventors: Baptiste Benoît Colotte, Jean Pierre Elie Galivel, Bruno Robert Gaully
  • Publication number: 20110140486
    Abstract: A coupling/uncoupling device is disclosed for joining and disjoining first and second segments of a transmission and/or connection means. An end fitting of the device is arranged on the first segment. The end fitting creates a snap connection with a receiver part arranged on the second segment. The device may be adapted for use in vehicles, such as for a vehicle seat, a tailgate, an engine cover, a storage compartment, a battery pole connection, or for securing transported or loaded items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Johnson Control Technology Company
    Inventor: Andreas Schmitz
  • Publication number: 20110142535
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment feature for attaching a molded shell to another part, and a method of forming the same. More specifically, it relates to the formation of a molded attachment feature for attaching a molded shell, such as an engine cover, an air duct, or an electrical unit, to a supporting part, such as an engine block, a vehicle frame, or a battery tray. The attachment feature includes a first pocket defined in the molding process by a primary core and a second pocket defined in the molding process by a secondary core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Pal M. Molnar, Steven J. Wille, Tim E. Droege
  • Publication number: 20110126385
    Abstract: One aspect of the present invention includes a first component that includes a solid body including a first and second aperture, a lip, and a groove. Also included is a second component that also includes an aperture corresponding to the first aperture of the first component. The second component is preferably operatively connected to and slidingly engageable with the first component. Finally, a third component is also included having a first end movably connected to the first component and a second free end operable to be engaged with the second aperture formed in the first component. When the free end of the third component is positioned within the second aperture of the first component, and when the second component is engaged with the lip and the groove of the first component, a flange of the second component prevents the free end of the third component from being removed from the second aperture of the first component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventors: Nathan MARTIN, Eric B. WARD
  • Publication number: 20110121560
    Abstract: A latch mechanism (10) comprises a male coupling member (12), and a female coupling member (14). The latch mechanism (10) is coupled/de-coupled by inserting/withdrawing male coupling member from female coupling member, by movement in a first direction A-A. A latch (20), here comprising a plate (44) and two prongs (42), is slidably mounted on the male coupling member (12), for movement in a second direction B-B. A compression spring (21) biases the latch (20) so that the prongs (42) are exposed at the distal end of the male coupling member (12). Catch channels shown here as two holes (22) that extend in the second direction B-B for receiving the prongs (42) are formed in the female coupling member. In use, the latch mechanism (10) is coupled by relative movement in the first direction between the male and female coupling members. When the probe is fully inserted, the prongs of the latch are aligned with the holes (22). Consequently, due to the bias of the spring (21), the prongs (42) enter the holes (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: SELF-ENERGISING COUPLING COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventor: Matthew Joseph Readman
  • Publication number: 20110123265
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable connector including at least two parts, each having a main body with a bore having a longitudinal axis therein, wherein an external surface of the main body of a first part is configured to bear against an internal surface of the bore of a second part when the first part is at least partially inserted into the bore of the second part to form a connection, characterised in that the positioning of the bores with respect to the main bodies is such that when the parts are connected to each other, rotation of one part with respect to the other changes the inclination of the longitudinal axes of the bores with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Simon Garry Moore
  • Publication number: 20110109083
    Abstract: A press connection which includes a carrier and at least one sleeve-like structural component of sheet metal seated at least with a press seat on the carrier. At least one indentation is formed on the surface of the carrier and the indentation is at least covered by at least one wall section of the sleeve-shaped structural component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Richard BAIER, Andreas ZIEGLER, Otmar WEBER
  • Publication number: 20110103887
    Abstract: A male or female element (12, 2) for a conic coupling, the element comprising: an end surface (16, 6) and two angled side surfaces (18, 8) disposed either side of the end surface (16, 6); wherein a coating is applied to at least one of the side surfaces, the coating having a varying coefficient of friction across the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Derek W. J. CLARKE
  • Publication number: 20110103886
    Abstract: A male or female element (12, 2) for a conic coupling, the element comprising: an end surface (16, 6) and two angled side surfaces (18, 8) disposed either side of the end surface (16, 6); wherein at least one of the side surfaces (18, 8) has a non-planar profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Derek W J CLARKE
  • Patent number: 7922416
    Abstract: A portable support structure including a platform member having a primary platform connector and a secondary platform connector. The primary platform connector is configured to receive a primary support connector. The secondary platform connector is configured to receive a secondary support connector. The support structure also includes a primary support member including the primary support connector and a hook member. In addition, the support structure includes a secondary support member having a first end and a second end. The first end is detachably engaged with the secondary platform connector and the second end is in locking engagement with the hook member. The primary support connector includes structures that engage the primary platform connector and rotationally position the primary support member. The hook member includes a hook portion that engages and prevents the secondary support member disengaging upon a rotation of the secondary support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Tait Towers
    Inventors: Adam Davis, Michael Tait, James Fairorth
  • Patent number: 7891162
    Abstract: A quick connect tool assembly including a tool head having a socket therein, and an elongated pole for insertion into the socket tool head to lock the tool head and the pole together. The assembly includes a detent fixed to an end of the pole and teeth projecting into the interior of the socket on the tool head, such that the teeth engage the tool head detent to lock the pole to the tool head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Dick Liao
  • Publication number: 20110030304
    Abstract: A stackable platform assembly has an improved coupler for interconnecting a plurality of stackable platforms. The coupler has projections that are appropriately sized and spaced to facilitate frictional engagement of the coupler with platforms having different dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: STRUCTURAL PLASTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Matt Janowak, Jeremy Masser
  • Publication number: 20110008102
    Abstract: A convex forward surface of a forward-biased probe head of a first portion of a docking system engages a central concave conical surface of a second portion of the docking system. A first linear actuator moves a flexible docking cable assembly relative to a support structure through bores therein and through the probe head. An aftward retraction of the docking cable assembly causes a linearly-actuated cam element thereof to rotate a rotary cam follower pivoted from the support structure, which engages an aft edge portion of the probe head, forcing the probe head forward. A plurality of distal coupling elements operatively coupled to the support structure around a central axis thereof engage with and become releasably captured by a corresponding socket and associated capture mechanism of a mating second portion of the docking system, and rigidized when the probe head is forced against the central concave conical surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: MICHIGAN AEROSPACE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Anthony Beckman HAYS, Greg Alan RITTER, Peter TCHORYK, JR., Jane Camile PAVLICH, Gregory Joseph WASSICK
  • Patent number: 7857261
    Abstract: An automatically aligned docking system, comprises a multi-point kinematic rigidization system that provides precise, repeatable rotational alignment at the spacecraft-docking interface without over-constraining the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Michigan Aerospace Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Tchoryk, Jr., Jane Camile Pavlich, Anthony Beckman Hays, Gregory Joseph Wassick, Greg Ritter
  • Publication number: 20100316442
    Abstract: An in-line coupling pipe is provided having a plurality of first corrugations with a male portion at one end of the pipe and a female portion at the other end. The diameter at the crest of the first corrugation being a first distance. The male portion having a second corrugation with the diameter at the crest of the second corrugation being a second distance. The male portion of having a third corrugation intermediate the first corrugation and the second corrugation, with the diameter at the crest of the third corrugation being a third distance. The male portion having a fourth corrugation intermediate the first corrugation and the third corrugation, with the diameter at the crest of the fourth corrugation being a fourth distance, with the first distance being greater than the second or third or fourth distances, the second distance being greater than the third distance, and the fourth distance being greater than second or third distances. The second corrugation has a recess formed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Randall A. Kolbet, Kevin M. Miller
  • Publication number: 20100226716
    Abstract: A lever-type connector has a female housing (30) that can be connected with and separated from a male housing (10) as a lever (50) is rotated. The lever-type connector has first and second cam pins (32, 33). A first gear (51) is rotated as the lever (50) is rotated and has a first cam groove (54) engageable with the first cam pin (32). A second gear (61) is rotated as the first gear (51) is rotated and has a second cam groove (64) engageable with the second cam pin (33). A width of the first cam groove (54) in a direction orthogonal to a moving direction of the first cam pin (32) exceeds the outer diameter of the first cam pin (32) in conformity with a backlash (S) between the two gears (51, 61). A width of the second cam groove (64) in a direction orthogonal to a moving direction of the second cam pin (33) is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the second cam pin (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: Yuujirou Imai
  • Publication number: 20100228405
    Abstract: A locking and holding mechanism for a personal vehicle is composed of a connection device mounted to the vehicle and a receptacle mounted to a solid fixture. The receptacle is configured to directly receive and engage the connection device of the vehicle and, once received, the vehicle is locked to the receptacle held in a stable position. The connection device easily attaches a vehicle to a dock and enables a vehicle management system to charge, lock, hold in place and monitor the vehicle's presence when docked in a charge station. When docked in a charge station, if the status of the vehicle is altered unexpectedly the vehicle is equipped with communication equipment to alert the management system that the vehicle's status has changed. The apparatus identifies a user through an ID device and/or code. A user in good standing accesses a user interface via a communication gateway to secure access to a vehicle by electronically detaching the vehicle from the dock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: INTRAGO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard Morgal, Daniel Sturges, Wilfred Thompson, Mitchell Magdovitz, John Tomasik, Jeffrey T. Samson
  • Publication number: 20100196047
    Abstract: A driving-force transmitter and a process cartridge. The process cartridge has a photosensitive drum and the driving-force transmitter mounted on the end of the photosensitive drum. The driving-force transmitter having a fitting part and multiple protrusions protruding from an end surface of the fitting part. The multiple protrusions are distributed equiangularly on a circle which is in the end surface of the fitting part. The center of the circle is on the axis of the fitting part. There is an engaging-part on the farthest end of each protrusion from the axis of the fitting part. An anti-separating groove is provided on the engaging-part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: Print-Rite Technology Development Co., Ltd. of Zhuhai
    Inventor: Benyon Jin
  • Publication number: 20100183367
    Abstract: A connection end portion of an inner member is provided with engagement protrusions, and a connection end portion of a stay is provided with reception grooves capable of axially receiving them. By inserting an operation cable into a tube of a fit-tube portion of an ascent/descent body, the engagement protrusions are axially received in insertion grooves, and are temporarily retained at terminal end portions thereof that are bent in one peripheral direction. When the stay is inserted into the tube of the fit-tube portion, the engagement protrusions are received in the reception grooves, and are transferred to terminal end portions thereof that are bent in the other peripheral direction. Through this operation, an axial connection state is attained in which the operation cable is suspended from the stay, and the headrest is attached to the ascent/descent body to become capable of ascending and descending with respect to the seat back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takeshi Nishiura, Atsuki Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20100129148
    Abstract: An adjustable connector is formed by, an comprises an outer housing, and an inner housing, with the inner housing being positioned inside of the outer housing. This inner housing forms a first connector wherein the inner housing is movable inside of the outer housing. There is also a complementary connector configured to connect to the first connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: John GIANNASCA
  • Patent number: 7713135
    Abstract: A golf pitch mark repairer (101) is adapted to be removably retained on an extremity of a golf club, thereby allowing a golfer to utilize the reach afforded by the golf club to facilitate repair of the pitch mark. The pitch mark repairer (101) comprises a sleeve (103) for receiving the golf club extremity, and a retaining mechanism in the form of resilient tabs (111a, 111b) adapted to resist movement of the golf club relative to the pitch mark repairer (101). The golf club extremity is inserted with a sliding collar (117) positioned towards closed end (105) of sleeve (103). The sleeve (103) comprises windows (116a, 116b) through which respective portions of resilient tabs (111a, 111b) are urged to protrude outwardly when the golf club extremity is inserted. Thereafter the sliding collar (117) is engaged by sliding it along the sleeve (103) towards its open end (107).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Northcroft Golf Limited
    Inventors: Kevin Bailey, Paul Simpson
  • Publication number: 20100108830
    Abstract: A support stand for display device includes a base seat, an elevating support, and a locking module detachably connected the elevating support to the base seat. The locking module includes a fixing member, a rotating member, an elastic member, and a latching member. The fixing member is fixed on one of the base seat and the elevating support, and the fixing member defines a gap and a latching groove. The rotating member is rotatably extended through the other one of the base seat and the elevating support, and the fixing member. The elastic member is sleeved on the rotating member, and abuts on the fixing member. The latching member is fixed on an end of the rotating member. The latching member is extended through the gap of the fixing member, and is engaged in the latching groove of the fixing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD ., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, LIAN-CHENG HUANG, JIAN LI
  • Patent number: 7699554
    Abstract: A bonnet assembly for a blowout preventer uses a seal carrier that is removable so as to allow for efficient and easy seal replacement. The seal carrier has: a recess adapted to at least partially embed a seal for sealing the bonnet assembly to a body of the blowout preventer; and a first connecting rod coupled to and extending from an inner surface of the seal carrier, where the first connecting rod has a fastening structure proximal to a distal end of the first connecting rod, where the fastening structure is adapted to engage with a first fastening device, and where the seal carrier is removable from the bonnet assembly when the first fastening device is disengaged from the fastening structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: Edward R. Hemphill, William R. Holland, Michael W. Berckenhoff
  • Publication number: 20100072328
    Abstract: An anchor system is provided featuring a two-piece toggle having a conduit with a passage in-between for passing one or more wires through, and having one end with a crosspiece formed thereon for passing through an aperture in a mounting surface of another device and engaging one side of the mounting surface and a fastener for frictionally coupling the two-piece toggle to an opposing side of the mounting surface of the other device so as to hold or secure the two-piece toggle in relation to the other device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Richard BURNHAM, Patrick MOONEY
  • Publication number: 20100040410
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an accessory attaching system (10) for use with an article of furniture (13). The system (10) comprises a socket defining member (12) to be received by one of an accessory (18) and an underlying component (16) to which the accessory (18) is to be attached. A retention device (20) is mountable to the other of the accessory (18) and the underlying component (16) to retain the accessory and the underlying component in position relative to each other. The retention device (20) is shaped to be a snug fit in a socket (14) defined by the socket defining member (12). A restraining formation (28) is carried on the retention device (20) for engaging a complementary element (32) carried by one of the accessory (18) and the underlying component (16) to inhibit lateral displacement of the accessory (18) relative to the underlying component (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: King Furniture (Australia) Pty Ltd
    Inventors: David Russell King, Steve Higgs
  • Patent number: 7645088
    Abstract: An articulated arm for an awning has an articulation part and an arm profile which are inserted one into the other. Furthermore, pull-off protection is present. The articulation part and the arm profile are inserted one into the other with a press fit, and the pull-off protection is designed as a claw present between the articulation part and arm profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Paul Voss GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Voss
  • Patent number: 7625033
    Abstract: A latching assembly for attaching an accessory such as a canopy to a wagon or other children's vehicle. Body tubes are positioned within each corner of the wagon and each features an exposed annular notch. The body tubes are engaged by latches attached to the four corner poles of the canopy. Each latch includes a housing within which pivoting latch fingers reside. Each latch finger includes button and jaw portions as well as leaf springs that urge the jaw portions into engagement with the annular notch of a corresponding body tube. A latch may be removed from the body tube by squeezing the button portions of the latch fingers together. This procedure is repeated for the remaining three corners of the wagon so that the canopy may be removed there from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Radio Flyer, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick Michelau, Timothy Seckel
  • Patent number: 7559714
    Abstract: A fitting for a terminal connection in a core-adjuster assembly has a generally annular isolator with a generally central bore defining a connector pin socket and a reverse clip cap socket, and a reverse clip cap configured to be received substantially concentrically by the reverse clip cap socket of the isolator and defining a connector pin end socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Phillip Ruhlander
  • Publication number: 20090175690
    Abstract: A releasable connector assembly comprising a socket body 2 and a plug body 3. The socket body 2 has a set of channels 15 formed therein and the plug body 3 having a corresponding set of radial tabs 7 formed thereon, the channels 15 forming a keyway for the tabs 7 such that load bearing projections 5, 14 on the bodies are releasably engageable in the manner of a bayonet coupling. The assembly is characterised in that a set of locking pins are provided on the socket member that are extendable into the channels 15 so as, in use, to trap the tabs 7 in undercuts 15k of the channels 15, thereby preventing unintentional release of the plug 3 from the socket 2, and retractable from the channels 15 so as to enable release of the plug 3 from the socket 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: John Gallagher
  • Patent number: RE42583
    Abstract: Brushless motor in a washing machine including a stator having a coil coupled to an upper frame, and a rotor having a lower frame entirely formed of a metal to cover an outer circumference and a bottom of the stator, a plurality of magnets fitted to an inside wall of the lower frame at fixed intervals opposite to the coil of the stator, and a support member formed as one unit with, and at a central portion of the lower frame coupled to a washing water shaft for transmission of a rotating force of the lower frame to the washing water shaft, thereby permitting smooth heat dissipation and drainage from the motor, and shortening a fabrication process and time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: In Geun Ahn, Dong Beom Lee, Jong Chul Bang