Articulated Members Patents (Class 403/52)
  • Publication number: 20090035054
    Abstract: A specialist tow cable termination for sustaining the tensile load when an object is towed at high speeds at the end of an cable behind an aircraft, the termination comprises a closed eye bolt attached to the cable and a U-bolt looped through the eye bolt attached to the object. The arrangement allows significant pivoting bending stresses to the tow cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: Selex Sensors and Airborne Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: David John Lye, Anthony Caesari, Mark Alan Tomlinson
  • Publication number: 20080202274
    Abstract: A manipulator, such as for use in medical procedures, is provided. The manipulator includes a body and a first actuator system connected to the body at a first attachment point and capable of moving the first attachment point with at least three degrees of freedom. A second actuator system is connected to the body at a second attachment point and capable of moving the second attachment point with at least three degrees of freedom. A third actuator system is integrated with the body and is capable of moving at least a portion of the body with at least one degree of freedom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: MicroDexterity Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Michael Stuart
  • Publication number: 20070231059
    Abstract: An articulation element consisting of a plurality of adjustable jaw pairs for the purposes of fixating the relative position of coupled bars and/or bone pins of an external bone fixator. Each of the adjustable jaws consists of a pair of hemispherical jaw elements contained within a spherical housing. A passage is eccentrically arranged through the jaw elements to accept the pin or bar. The jaw elements have interposed between them a spring element that serves to bias the jaw elements in the closed position. Pins serve to provisionally lock the jaw elements in the closed position. Spring loaded buttons act to release the pins thereby allowing the jaw elements to open accepting the pin or bar. The jaws are attached in a back to back fashion through the use of a threaded collar which acts as a turnbuckle pulling the jaws together when tightened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Michael W. Mullaney
  • Patent number: 7243892
    Abstract: A mounting system for a display such as a flat panel computer monitor or television includes a linkage of individual elements which are pivotally connected together with adjustable drag tapered bearings. Each tapered bearing allows individual elements to pivot with respect to one another about an axis defined by the tapered bearing, so that the display can be moved to a variety of different positions. By tightening the adjustable drag, the tapered bearing can lock the elements together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: CSAV, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel W. Pfister
  • Patent number: 7198423
    Abstract: An angle accessory for skirting ducts includes two flaps mounted to pivot about a pivot axis via assembly structure including two male engagement elements on the first flap and two female engagement elements on the second flap. In the vicinity of the male engagement elements, the first flap has at least one flange projecting from one of its end edges and forming an obstacle that co-operates with at least one lip of the first flap to define at least one passageway giving access to at least one male engagement element, the passageway having a small height constraining the flaps to be assembled together by bringing the second flap towards the first flap while tilting the second flap relative to the first flap's pivot axis, and then by straightening up the second flap along the pivot axis so as to engage successively the female engagement elements over the male engagement elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignees: Legrand France, Legrand SNC
    Inventors: Tristan Mathieu, Patrice Jarry
  • Patent number: 7066099
    Abstract: A foldable article of furniture includes a surrounding top supported frame with a plurality of engaging members secured thereon and extending downwardly therefrom. A plurality of supporting legs have couplers secured on upper sections thereof. A joint interconnects a lower portion of each engaging member and a proximate portion of each coupler such that the proximate portion is turnable and is uprightly movable relative to the lower portion. A locking member is disposed to lock the proximate portion from turning relative to the lower portion when the proximate portion is in an upper position, and to set the proximate portion free from being locked when the proximate portion is in a lower position. A biasing member biases the proximate portion upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Tseng
  • Patent number: 7051619
    Abstract: A motor vehicle axle assembly includes a hollow cylindrical, internally-splined input shaft that is adapted to be connected to an externally-splined shaft of an end fitting of a driveshaft assembly. By using the mass centerline or center of balance of the end fitting shaft as a common center of balance for a balanced driveshaft assembly and further as a locating centerline for the connection between the input shaft of the axle assembly and the shaft of the rear end fitting of the driveshaft assembly, eccentricities in the connection between the input shaft and the end fitting are minimized to reduce noise and vibration. This also provides an adequate seal between the input shaft and the carrier of the axle assembly to retain lubricant in the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Torque-Traction Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Vincent J. Morgillo
  • Patent number: 6883871
    Abstract: An armrest adjustment mechanism for use with a vehicle seat defining a lateral seat axis and an armrest member defining a longitudinal axis. The mechanism includes a mounting system for pivotally mounting the armrest member on the vehicle seat for selective pivotal rotation about the lateral seat axis between a deployed design configuration, wherein the longitudinal axis has a substantially horizontal orientation, and a raised stowed configuration, wherein the longitudinal axis has a substantially vertical orientation. The mechanism also includes a lateral translation system for positive inward displacement of the armrest member along the lateral seat axis relative to the vehicle seat as the armrest member is rotated from the deployed design configuration towards the raised stowed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Faurecia Automotive Seating Canada Limited
    Inventors: Dan Dumitru Nae, Wojciech Smuk, Patrick Daniel
  • Publication number: 20040165939
    Abstract: According to the invention, an articulated junction device between a suspended structure (36) and a load bearing structure (54) comprises a hinge pin (48), at least one first part (50) being installed in the suspended structure (36) so as to be able to rotate about a first axis (A1) and a second part (52) installed in the load bearing structure (54) so as to be able to rotate about a second axis (A2). The hinge pin (48) passes through the first part (50) and the second part (52). The first axis (A1) and the second axis (A2) are parallel to each other and offset from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Herve Marche
  • Publication number: 20040156671
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fastening system comprising a first mounting bracket rotatably attached to a first assembly, a second mount bracket rotatably attached to a second assembly and a rigid attachment between the first mount bracket and the second mount bracket wherein the attachment enables the first mount bracket and the second mount bracket to rotate together about a common axis and wherein the attachment enables a portion of the first mount bracket and a portion of the second mount bracket to be separated by space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Sean William Tucker
  • Publication number: 20040151534
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing device with a lug strip (10), at least one end (12) of said lug strip (10) being bent to form a fixing loop (14), comprising a fixing space by means of two enclosing pieces (16) into which a retaining means (22, 24) may be introduced, whereby said retaining means (22, 24) comprise two opposing fixing pieces (26) for a unit with the both enclosing pieces (16) and is provided with a functional piece (28, 30). The both fixing pieces (26), diametrically opposed to each other on the respective retaining means (22, 24), comprise fixing surfaces. The functional piece (28, 30) runs at least partly perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis of the fixing piece (26) and each fixing surface is provided with a convex curvature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventors: Reinhard Holthaus, Thomas Schmid
  • Publication number: 20040120755
    Abstract: A coupler for connecting rotary members to facilitate transfer of torque between the members where the rotational axes of the members are not in axial alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: George H. Butler
  • Publication number: 20040101350
    Abstract: The invention refers to a mounting and dismounting device (10) for an annular machine element (40) being mountable on an axle (20), which device (10) comprises pressing means (12), counteracting means (14) and tightening means (16, 42), where the tightening means (16, 42) is connectable to the counteracting means (14) for transfer of axial force to the machine element (40). The invention is characterized in that the counteracting means (14) comprises two parts and is provided to exert a radial force locking the counteracting means (14) against the axle (20), at exertion of axial force via the tightening means (16, 42).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Ragnar Fohlen
  • Patent number: 6722812
    Abstract: A connecting device for tubular frame members, first (2a) and second (2b), particularly for stretcher (3) having two half-stretchers (3a, 3b), comprises: connecting means, first (10) and second (20), respectively fixed to the tubular frame members, first (2a) and second (2b), and complementarily connectable in correspondence of a coupling condition (A) of the tubular frame members (2a, 2b); support means, first (30) and second (40), respectively joined with the connecting means, first (10) and second (20); booking means, first (50) and second (60), respectively joined to the connecting means, first (10) and second (20), and fit to engage with the support means, respectively second (40) and first (30), in correspondence of the coupling condition (A) and detachable from the support means (30, 40) in correspondence of an uncoupling condition (D) of the tubular frame members (2a, 2b), in consequence of the disengagement of the hooking means (50, 60) from the support means (30, 40) and of the consequent mutual dis
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ferno Washington Italia S.r.l.
    Inventors: Enrico Carletti, Alessandro Lapini
  • Publication number: 20040062594
    Abstract: A connection group for movable road barriers, comprising a pair of jawed joints (3, 4) suitable for being attached to the respective upright members (1, 2) of adjacent barriers and connected to each other in such a way as to compensate imperfections as regards the coplanarity and/or the parallelism of said upright members due to the conformation of the ground on which the barriers are set up.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: Findeco S.r.L.
    Inventor: Alessio Dainelli
  • Patent number: 6706125
    Abstract: When manufacturing a straight steel section having a joint 2 comprising a ball claw 21 and a curved claw 20 by hot-rolling a bloom vertically symmetrically to make a section blank having a flange 2A at a web 1 end (first step), vertically asymmetrically hot-rolling the section blank to adjust the size of the web and form the flange into a rough joint 2B including a projection 20A (second step), and subjecting the projection to hot bend rolling into a curved claw 20 (third step), wherein the bloom has a chemical composition comprising, in mass percentage, from 0.01 to 0.20% C, up to 0.8% Si, up to 1.8% Mn, up to 0.030% P, and up to 0.020% S; and therein the claw bending start temperature in the third step is a temperature of over Ar3 or up to Ar3-50° C., thereby achieving a depth of wrinkle flaws 10 present on the inner surface side of the curved claw of up to 0.5 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: JFE Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsumi Kimura, Yasushi Morikage, Keniti Amano, Takanori Okui, Keizou Taoka, Hironori Miura, Hiroyuki Ookubo, Fumimaru Kawabata
  • Patent number: 6698044
    Abstract: A medical stirrup device includes a base adapted for fixed securement to an associated support member. The device further includes a gooseneck shaft member having a proximal end connected to the base and a distal end spaced from the base. The gooseneck shaft member is selectively manually bendable by an end-user into a curvilinear operative shape between an unbent linear position and a bendable limit of the gooseneck shaft member. A fastener is located at the distal end of the gooseneck shaft member. The fastener is adapted to engage a mating fastener of an associated limb support member to connect the associated limb support member to the shaft. In one version of the development, the shaft member includes first and second co-axial spiral-wound tubular members. In another version, the shaft has adjustable rigidity and is defined from a series of articulated links. A method of positioning a human limb for a medical procedure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventors: Saul P. Greenfield, Julian H. Wan, Clifford P. Limpert
  • Patent number: 6659315
    Abstract: Joints for joining together limb members of mannequins and forms, and methods of assembly of joints and mannequins are provided. The joints and mannequins of this invention provide natural anatomical shape and ease of assembly. This is accomplished using one or more assembly fixtures, located within or on a limb member to be joined, that contain elements of a locking mechanism to hold the limbs together and other elements for creating tension or friction between joined limb members. The assembly fixtures also comprise a disc (or tab) that provides a natural appearance to the joint and allows for ease of assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Fusion Specialties, Inc.
    Inventors: James Talaric, James Barber, Richard Varner
  • Patent number: 6631850
    Abstract: A track for a toy vehicle is provided. The inventive track includes at least one end segment, either male or female, and at least one middle segment. The middle segment is pivotably attachable to at least one of the male and female segments. A middle segment can have teeth on both ends, tooth-receiving cavities on both ends, or a set of teeth on one end and a cavity on the other. The teeth of one segment are selectively engageable with the edges of a cavity of an adjacent segment. When teeth engage a cavity, one segment is fixedly angled with respect to the other segment. By repeating this pivotably angled structure between a number of segments, the curvature of the track can be altered to the taste and specifications of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Battat Incorporated
    Inventor: Choi Man Wa
  • Publication number: 20030190183
    Abstract: A connection device for attaching a downrod to a fan motor assembly of a ceiling fan assembly. The device includes a flange with an aperture defined therein such that a receptacle for receiving a downrod is formed in the flange. The device further includes a sleeve assembly which surrounds at least a portion of the flange, and is capable of projecting into the aperture of the flange. The sleeve assembly can be operated and adjusted to allow a downrod to be inserted and retained in the receptacle bordered by the flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Cheng Ming Hsing
  • Publication number: 20030185621
    Abstract: An adjustable support apparatus for, e.g., supporting an instrument. The adjustable support apparatus may include a supporting member, an adjustable member engaging with the supporting member, a fastening member engaged with the adjustable member and an elongated member engaged with the adjustable member and adapted to interact with an instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Rundle, Daniel N. Kelsch
  • Patent number: 6619875
    Abstract: A connection apparatus for an artificial model includes a resilient device and a post device. The resilient device has a hollow shaft extending upward from the fixing disk thereof to fit with a sleeve disposed outside the hollow shaft. A plurality of balls are attached to the hollow shaft and retained between the hollow shaft and the sleeve. The post device further includes a flange and an upright post. The upright post is inserted into the hollow shaft with the round top thereof passing over the balls such that the resilient device can join with the post device. Once the push lever is pushed with the slant parts thereof pressing the sleeve to slide the fixing disk forward, the annular projection section of the sleeve may slide away the balls to release the balls from the recess ring on the push rod such that the post is taken out from the hollow shaft to disengage the post device from the resilient device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Jung-Chang Chiang
  • Patent number: 6592285
    Abstract: A vibration-damping device is provided for removably connecting a first and second component. The device includes a holding arm adapted to be attached to the first component; a receiving element adapted to be attached to the second component; and at least one vibration-damping element of elastic material coupled to the holding arm. The holding arm is insertable into the receiving element, whereby the at least one vibration-damping element is slidable along at least a surface of the receiving element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Schwarz Verbindungs-Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6590723
    Abstract: An adjustable mounting structure comprising a first mounting plate, a second mounting plate adjustably fixed to a first mounting plate and in facing engagement with the first mounting plate, a pivot ball having a hole formed therethrough, the first and second mounting plates pivotable about the pivot ball, and a spring fixed to the first mounting plate at a first end and fixed to the second mounting plate at a second end, the spring passing through the hole formed through the pivot ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: SD Instruments
    Inventor: Robert B. Hodge
  • Patent number: 6578593
    Abstract: A folding square framework which may serve as a support for a tensile canvas or membrane. This framework, which may be mounted on a fixed column or wall, may fold, around hinges set at 54.3° to the longitudinal axes of each member of the framework, at each corner, compactly together such that all four sides of the framework are rested parallel with one another, perpendicular to the plane of the unfolded structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Terry Leonarz
  • Patent number: 6568869
    Abstract: A three-dimensional universal unit for movable structures includes first and second coupling members. Each coupling member includes two opposing side surface parts, an end face part connected to form a right angle with one end face of each side surface part, a coupling/uncoupling device provided on the two side surface parts and end surface part of the first coupling member and operating independently, a permanent magnet provided on the two side surface parts and end face part of the second coupling member, and a linking part disposed between the two side surface parts of each coupling member. The universal unit further includes a linking member that rotatably links the linking parts of the two coupling members and a drive apparatus that rotationally drives the two coupling members relative to the linking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science & Technology, Ministry of International Trade & Industry
    Inventor: Satoshi Murata
  • Publication number: 20030086751
    Abstract: A compliant mechanism is provided for accurate and precision alignment of mechanical component parts, surfaces or assemblies and the like, where low-cost, accurate, and repeatable alignment are desired. The compliant mechanism may be used in applications that require high precision alignment and where the relative location of coupled components must be variable or adjustable. The compliant mechanism includes a stage coupled to a plurality of hinges, at least one tab coupled to one of the hinges, and a support coupled to the tab. The relative position of the stage and the support may be adjusted by actuating (i.e., displacing) the tab(s) or other parts of the structure, to enable controlled movement in six degrees of freedom therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Martin L. Culpepper
  • Publication number: 20030077109
    Abstract: Joint structure of knockdown card, including a main body and a first connecting section and a second connecting section respectively extending from two ends of the main body. A main card and several subsidiary cards of the knockdown card are formed with connecting sections corresponding to the first and second connecting sections. By means of connecting the connecting sections, the main card and subsidiary cards are assembled and can be relatively swung about the connecting sections so as to change the angle contained between the main card and subsidiary cards. The joint structure can be two-segment joint to achieve more mobile activity of the knockdown card.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Chu-Yuan LIAO
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsi Chen
  • Patent number: 6551004
    Abstract: A mechanical linkage for attaching a first load-carrying member to a second load-carrying member includes an elongated race that defines an axis and at least one ball. The elongated race is formed with an aperture that is surrounded by two opposed faces and two opposed semi-circular surfaces. Importantly, each face is formed with a channel that extends in a direction that is substantially parallel to the direction of the axis of the race. The ball is formed with a cylindrical thru-hole that passes through the center of the ball to allow the ball to be attached to the first load-carrying member while disposed within the aperture of the race. The race holds the ball but allows for limited rotation of the ball and translational movement of the ball along the axis of the race. The race includes an extension for attachment to the second load-carrying member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Ron Hearidge
  • Patent number: 6499906
    Abstract: A pivot joint has a tail portion and a head portion securely affixed thereto wherein the head portion of the pivot joint has at least an engaging slot for pivotally connecting a guest tube frame of the foldable furniture and the tail portion of the pivot joint is adapted for rotatably affixing on a host tube frame of the foldable furniture in such a manner that the guest tube frame is adapted to rotate in various directions with respect to the host tube frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Tofasco of America
    Inventor: Edward Zheng
  • Publication number: 20020192012
    Abstract: When manufacturing a straight steel section having a joint 2 comprising a ball claw 21 and a curved claw 20 by hot-rolling a bloom vertically symmetrically to make a section blank having a flange 2A at a web 1 end (first step), vertically asymmetrically hot-rolling the section blank to adjust the size of the web and form the flange into a rough joint 2B including a projection 20A (second step), and subjecting the projection to hot bend rolling into a curved claw 20 (third step), wherein the bloom has a chemical composition comprising, in mass percentage, from 0.01 to 0.20% C, up to 0.8% Si, up to 1.8% Mn, up to 0.030% P, and up to 0.020% S; and therein the claw bending start temperature in the third step is a temperature of over Ar3 or up to Ar3—50° C., thereby achieving a depth of wrinkle flaws 10 present on the inner surface side of the curved claw of up to 0.5 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Tatsumi Kimura, Yasushi Morikage, Keniti Amano, Takanori Okui, Keizou Taoka, Hironori Miura, Hiroyuki Ookubo, Fumimaru Kawabata
  • Publication number: 20020164196
    Abstract: A connection structure is designed to connect the blade and the handle of a gardening implement and is formed of a connection rod, a control member, a locating head, and two steel balls movably contained in the recess of the control member and the locating holes of the locating head. As the control member is rotated to locate the connection rod which is fastened with the blade, the steel balls are forced by the control member in motion into the locating holes of the locating head. The blade and the handle are separated by rotating the control member in such a manner that the steel balls are forced back into the recess of the control member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Applicant: Ho Cheng Garden Tools Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Yao-Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 6398656
    Abstract: A universal joint comprises a first rotation guide member, a second rotation guide member guided by the first rotation guide means to be rotatable, and a third rotation guide member guided by the second rotation guide member to be rotatable. The first, second and third rotation guide means being operatively connected through connection members so as to provide three degrees of rotational freedom. The first, second and third rotation guide members are preferably swiveling bearings having rotational center lines, respectively, which intersect each other at one point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: THK Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidekazu Michioka, Takasi Hatanaka, Tadashi Hirokawa
  • Patent number: 6368222
    Abstract: A universal joint having two or three degrees of freedom in rotation is disclosed which exhibits a small size, great rigidity and satisfactory accuracy. An end of a first node is connected to a base through a rolling bearing. A plurality of circular-arc guide bearings are disposed at positions opposite to the center line of the first node opposite to the base. A circular-arc rail formed around a cylindrical base is engaged to the circular-arc guide bearings. A shaft is disposed in a direction of the diameter which passes through the center of the circular arc of the circular-arc rail of the cylindrical base. A second node is, through a rolling bearing, joined to the shaft such that the center of rotation is positioned on the axis of rotation of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Okuma Corporation
    Inventors: Nashiki Masayuki, Matsushita Tetsuya, Nakagawa Masao, Watanabe Shigeharu
  • Patent number: 6361237
    Abstract: A coupling device includes first and second relatively rotating members mounted about a common axis and first and second lines fixed between the first and second members. The first line is adapted to wrap around the first member in a first direction and around the second member in a second direction, opposite the first direction, the second line is adapted to wrap around the first member in the second direction and around the second member in the first direction. A guide is revolvably mounted to the first and second members for translating the first and second lines between the first member and the second member as the first and second members rotate relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Gordon O. Salmela
  • Patent number: 6322278
    Abstract: A pivoting connection is described that uses an H-shaped connector secured within the X-shaped opening of a base. One end of the H shaped connector can be inserted into the X-shaped opening at an angle corresponding to one leg of the X but is secured in the opening when twisted to a vertical position. This pivoting connection provides a reliable connection that is durable, weather resistant, and does not readily seize.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Gerald Bernard Roberts
  • Patent number: 6315095
    Abstract: It is often necessary to unfold the integral carrying case of a device such as a portable electronic instrument comprising an upper and lower module. However if it is necessary upon unfolding the case to move apart the modules a limited distance while maintaining their relative alignment the common scissor-slider mechanism will not suffice inasmuch as the scissor mechanism does not latch on retraction and rotation. The disclosed invention provides a scissor-slider mechanism that extends without constraint in the usual fashion, but upon retraction and rotation about the slider axis required for folding the scissor-slider mechanism self-latches, keeping the upper and lower modules from separating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Moishe Garfinkle
  • Patent number: 6089784
    Abstract: In an articulated sequence or array of ground-reinforcement panels, each panel has parallel rectilinear edges, one of them provided with a number of male interlock members projecting therefrom in the plane of the panel and the other provided with a corresponding number of female interlock members recessed therein, so constructed and arranged that the male members can be forcibly but detachably interengaged with the female members in a next-adjacent panel in a direction vertical to the plane of the panels but cannot be disengaged therefrom in the plane of the panels, while, when interengaged, the respective male and female members and the adjacent panels associated therewith are capable of limited rotation with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Fergus Johnathan Ardern
  • Patent number: 6076247
    Abstract: A method for connecting a ball and socket joint to a control arm in a vehicle suspension system includes providing the ball and socket joint with a socket portion having a circumferential flange. The ball and socket joint is initially aligned with an opening formed through an outer portion of the control arm. Then, the ball and socket joint is moved upwardly such that the socket portion is received within the opening. The socket portion defines an outer diameter that is preferably slightly smaller than an inner diameter defined by the opening formed through the outer portion of the lower control arm. However, the flange defines an outer diameter that is preferably larger than an inner diameter defined by that opening. Thus, the engagement of the flange with the lower surface of the outer portion positively positions the ball and socket joint relative to the lower control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Robert D. Durand
  • Patent number: 5987839
    Abstract: A portable activity floor comprised of a plurality of separate panels that can be readily and selectively interlocked together into a finalized configuration. Each panel has an underlayment providing a core with spaced stringers fastened to the underside thereof. Elongated finishing strips mounted on the upper surface of the underlayment form the outer surface of the panel. In one type of floor assembly, alternate strips are longer than their adjacent strips at the inner side of each panel to form laterally spaced interlock fingers. A pair of hinge members pivotally connects adjacent panels to one another and allows them to be relatively pivoted on a fixed axis with finger interlock alignment accuracy from an initial connected position to a fully assembled position in which the fingers of the finishing strips closely mesh and interlock. Further, the hinge members when connected prevent lateral movement of adjacent panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventors: Douglas J Hamar, Mark S Young, Richard E Granroth
  • Patent number: 5859947
    Abstract: A positioning device (500) for positioning workpieces along translations and through angular rotations about two or more axes of rotation. In particular, the positioning devices (500) can be employed in method for aligning an optical fiber (510) with an optical beam such that the axis of the optical fiber (510) is aligned coincident to the axis of the optical beam and the endface (508) of the optical fiber (510) is deployed at the global maximum along the axis of the optical beam. The positioning devices are for use laser-to-fiber set-ups, laser-to-spatial filter set-ups, fiber-to-fiber set-ups and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Ramot University Authority for Applied Research & Industrial Development Ltd.
    Inventors: Irina Kiryuscheva, Emanuel Marom, David Mendlovic, Naim Conforti
  • Patent number: 5821764
    Abstract: An interface between a test head portion of automatic test equipment and a handling device such as a prober. The interface employs preloaded kinematic couplings between the test head and the handling device and between the probe card and the test head. These couplings allow the probe card to be repeatedly positioned relative to the component in the handling device. They also reduce forces on the probe card to prevent distortion of the probe card. The interface provides separate mechanical and electrical loops such that mechanical precision is not dependant on the electrical structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Aesop, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander H. Slocum, Michael A. Chiu
  • Patent number: 5788394
    Abstract: A joint comprising a body member defining an annular groove and a pair of tangential notches intersecting the annular groove at diametrically opposed positions. A socket member is comprised of a preferably semispherically shaped frame having an open side and a pair of diametrically opposed knob or pin member. Each knob or pin member is engagable with one of the tangential notches to snap fit the body member within the semispherically shaped frame and within the annular groove. The body member is secured to a mounting bar and the semispherically shaped frame has an elongated slot and the mounting bar passes through the slot. The arrangement is such that the slot defines one path of rotation of the shaped frame member relative to the body member and the annular groove defines a second path of relative rotation between the body member and the shaped frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Bowles Fluidics Corporation
    Inventors: Richard W. Hess, Craig E. Finch
  • Patent number: 5596789
    Abstract: The hinge for eyeglasses, of the type including a lens-bearing front having two temples hinged thereto, has a shaped element and a support. The shaped element has a protruding tab defining an L-shaped base which can be detachably accommodated in a complementarily-shaped first seat formed in the end portion of a temple. The shaped element is detachably accommodated in a second seat formed in the support. Elastically deformable engagement members are connected to the support, for detachably connecting the support to a complementarily shaped third seat formed in a front.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Killer Loop S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luciano Simioni
  • Patent number: 5580180
    Abstract: A clamp yoke formed from a flat piece of metal. The flat piece being approximately T-shaped which is bent into the clamp yoke. The top portion of the T forming the yoke ears and the vertical portion forming two approximately parallel shaft portions. The yoke ears each having a bearing bore and the shaft portions each having a shaft receiving bore. The clamp yoke can be provided with a bolt having a reduced diameter middle which allows a shaft to be inserted into the shaft receiving bores without removing the bolt. The bolt is then tightened, drawing the larger diameter portion into the center of the clamp yoke where the bolt engages a transversely relieved portion on the shaft to axially retain the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: The Torrington Company
    Inventors: James G. DeBisschop, William E. Korzan
  • Patent number: 5575581
    Abstract: A clamp yoke formed from a flat piece of metal. The flat piece being approximately T-shaped which is bent into the clamp yoke. The top portion of the T forming the yoke ears and the vertical portion forming two approximately parallel shaft portions. The yoke ears each having a bearing bore and the shaft portions each having a shaft receiving bore. The clamp yoke can be provided with a bolt having a reduced diameter middle which allows a shaft to be inserted into the shaft receiving bores without removing the bolt. The bolt is then tightened, drawing the larger diameter portion into the center of the clamp yoke where the bolt engages a transversely relieved portion on the shaft to axially retain the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: The Torrington Company
    Inventor: James G. DeBisschop
  • Patent number: 5538356
    Abstract: A swivel link, especially for use in rotatable interconnection of two relatively pivotable machine members (1) at the adjacent end portions. One (1) of the two members may be bifurcated to embrace the other member and formed with two aligned swivel link attachment holes (2). The swivel link comprises a bolt (3) and two expandable, internally conical sleeves (5). In the area of each cone sleeve (5), the bolt (3) has a correspondingly conical portion (3"). A coaxial threaded end trunnion (3") at each end of the bolt (3) mounts a tightening nut (4) adapted for axially directed displacement of the adjacent cone sleeve (5) into the space between the attachment hole wall (2) and the conical portion (3") of the bolt (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventors: Arne Aarre, Knut S. Oaland
  • Patent number: 5282460
    Abstract: An exoskeletal robotic device supplements relative movement between biological skeletal members coupled at a biological joint of a wearer, and preferably forms complete sections of a skeleton to be worn by a human. First and second frame members for mechanical joints are attachable to the wearer adjacent the biological joint. The mechanical joints define a center of relative rotation of the frame members about at least two, and preferably three mutually perpendicular axes, the center of relative rotation of the frame members being displaced from the outer surfaces of the skeletal members to correspond in position with the center of the biological joint. Actuation devices in the form of hydraulic cylinders are coupled between the first and second frame members for rotating the frame members under power under control of a microprocessor which can execute stored sequences or apply power in the same direction as exerted by the wearer against pressure sensors coupled to the microprocessor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Assignee: Joyce Ann Boldt
    Inventor: Kenneth Boldt
  • Patent number: 5257873
    Abstract: An apparatus for movably connecting proximal and distal workpieces such as the limbs of a doll or mannequin is disclosed. A first shank has a first positioning means at one of its ends and a second shank has a second positioning means at one of its ends. The first positioning means and second positioning means are movably connected by means of a joint molded therearound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Abbat
  • Patent number: 5251993
    Abstract: A structure for connecting a fixed support to a facing panel, in which rotatable L-shaped brackets are mounted on the support and panel and a rod extends between pins mounted in the bracket legs, so that the effective length of the rod may be varied and the brackets rotated to correct for misalignment between the support and the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: James W. Sigourney