Non-coplanar Axes Patents (Class 403/58)
  • Patent number: 11154994
    Abstract: A work device is configured to perform a work with use of an end effector and have six degrees of freedom. The work device including: a linear motion unit obtained by combining three linear motion actuators, to have three degrees of freedom; and a rotation unit obtained by combining a plurality of rotation mechanisms each having one or more degrees of rotational freedom, to have three degrees of freedom. A base portion of the linear motion unit is fixed to a mount. A base portion of the rotation unit is fixed to an output portion of the linear motion unit. The end effector is mounted to an output portion of the rotation unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Isobe, Kenzou Nose, Naoki Marui, Hiroyuki Yamada
  • Patent number: 11149431
    Abstract: Roof brackets for attaching a structure such as a patio cover to a building, and methods for installing the brackets. The brackets have a saddle for receiving a support beam of the structure. The brackets can be attached to the building roof, but do not penetrate the roof substrate, thus preventing leakage and other structural problems. The roof brackets comprise a plate that is installed between the roof substrate and the shingles or tile on the roof. The brackets are available in different configurations compatible with standard roof pitches for easy installation. One roof bracket has a riser so that the saddle is lifted above the roof. Another roof bracket is configured so that when installed the saddle is located beyond the edge of the roof. Other brackets can be attached to the rafters under the roof, are available in different configurations depending on standard roof pitch, and they are configured to extend below and outward from the fascia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Inventor: Russ Edward Meznarich
  • Patent number: 11045055
    Abstract: A body included in a cleaning tool has a proximal end, a distal end, and a bottom surface that faces a surface to be cleaned when in use. A length from the proximal end to the distal end is longer than a width perpendicular to a longitudinal direction from the proximal end toward the distal end. A joint that connects a suction pipe being a wand to the body is positioned closer to the proximal end than to the distal end. The joint enables a first angle being an angle of a longitudinal axis of the wand with respect to the longitudinal direction of the body to be changed. The cleaning tool includes a locking mechanism that, when the first angle is equal to a holding angle of 90° or less, prevents the first angle from changing from the holding angle to a different angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yohei Asahi, Koshiro Takano, Marika Haramaki, Kimiyoshi Soma
  • Patent number: 11041303
    Abstract: Structural support apparatus, system, and installation method, comprising a base member adapted for being mounted to an existing building structure, an attachment bracket mounted to the base member at a pivot point adapted to be set securely to an angle selected during installation, the attachment bracket also adapted for mounting to a wood riser having openings therein to match the attachment bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: WOODSTONE STRUCTURES LLC
    Inventor: Bryan Ray Marlow
  • Patent number: 10874433
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are strut attachments for external fixation frames. The strut attachments provide solutions for frame configurations in which it is not possible to attach a strut at its ends to corresponding rings. The strut attachments may be considered an outrigger type of mechanism that achieves more travel out of completely collapsed struts. The strut attachments, each having a pivot and a hinge joint, allow a strut to be attached on the level of a first ring and extend at least partially proximally or distally to a second ring depending on the frame of reference of the ring system. These strut attachments may be used when the fully collapsed length of the strut will not allow the rings to get any closer to one another than is needed or proscribed. In such cases, the strut attachments allow for even tighter ring to ring distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLC
    Inventor: Subash K. Mannanal
  • Patent number: 10702412
    Abstract: An orthopedic joint hinge assembly includes a first elongated member, a first coupler attached to the first elongated member and including a first interface surface, a second elongated member, and a second coupler attached to the second elongated member and including a second interface surface. Each of the first and second couplers is constrained to rotate about an axis of rotation. The first and second interface surfaces are offset from the axis of rotation and engage each other to block a relative rotation between the first and second members in a first direction and separate from each other to permit a relative rotation in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Inventor: Nikolaj Wolfson
  • Patent number: 10653451
    Abstract: An adjustable articulating spinal rod system including a first elongated element secured to a first bone, a second elongated element secured to the spine, and an articulating joint connecting the first and second elongated elements. The articulating joint including a first movable joint, a second movable joint, and at least one locking mechanism. The first movable joint is coupled to the first elongated element and the second movable joint which is also coupled the second elongate element. The first and second movable joints are configured to allow polyaxial movement and rotation of the first elongated element with respect to the second elongated element. The at least one locking mechanism immobilizes the first and second movable joints in the locked position to secure the first elongate element in a position relative to the second elongate element and allow movement and rotation in an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: REFAI TECHNOLOGIES, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Daniel Refai
  • Patent number: 10258818
    Abstract: A modular kit of parts creates structures to store and suspend equipment used for physical fitness. A structure can be created that can store fitness equipment such as exercise balls, dumb bells, kettle bells and the like. Further, the structure can incorporate exercise bars, and can store and deploy such equipment as suspension straps, punching bags, heavy bags, yoga straps, which are suspended from multi axial pivoting anchors that afford no frictional resistance when the equipment is utilized for exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: GYM RAX INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Rhodes Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 9963874
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a roof truss tie-down apparatus including a pin and bracket engagement which enables a wall frame to accommodate any style of roof truss at any angle, and a method of constructing such a roof frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Weeks Holdings Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Kevin Weeks
  • Patent number: 9427862
    Abstract: A hand tool is provided with a mechanism which permits the handle of a hand tool to be adjusted through a wide array of angles relative to the implement to which it is attached to accommodate different sized users and uses of the tool. Further, a quick connect apparatus permits any of a plurality of hand tools to be connected to a single handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: David L. Durfee, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9422021
    Abstract: A collapsible skateboard includes an upright handle having lower portion on which is fixedly mounted a bracket, a connector having a curved slot having a lower end formed with a horizontal recess, an upper end formed with a vertical recess, and a circular hole under the vertical recess, an adjust pin inserted into the vertical recess of the connector and the elongated hole of the bracket, a pivot pin fitted through the circular hole of the connector and the circular hole of the bracket, a spring having an upper end connected to the adjust pin and a lower end to the pivot pin, and a platform on which is fixedly mounted the connector, whereby the skateboard can be easily folded up as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: Razor USA LLC
    Inventor: Shui-Te Tsai
  • Patent number: 9120566
    Abstract: A torque link member for aircraft landing gear includes a first end for connecting to a lower portion or an upper portion of the aircraft landing gear and a second end for connecting to another torque link member. A locking pin is disposed on one of the upper portion, the lower portion, the first end or the second end. The locking pin is axially movable between an engaged position wherein the pin protrudes for interengagement with a cooperating aperture on the first end, the second end, the upper portion, the lower portion, or the second end of the other torque link member, and a disengaged position. The locking pin is biased toward the engaged position and movable against the biasing to the disengaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Patents & Technologies North America, LLC
    Inventor: Charles T. O'Connell
  • Patent number: 9095093
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for rotatably mounting a stem deflector to a toolbar. The apparatus includes a base that attaches to the toolbar. The apparatus also includes a rotatable member that attaches to the stem deflector. A position of the rotatable member is adjustable relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: LANKOTA GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Brian J. Hyronimus, Christopher J. Gross
  • Patent number: 8936223
    Abstract: Adjustable bracket apparatus includes connector apparatus for mounting and securing external assemblies on at least one elongated support member, and allows positional adjustment of the secured external assembly along the elongated support member with up to 360 degree rotational positioning of the bracketing assembly about the elongated support member. An adjustable connector and locking assembly is disposed at the end of an arm element embodiment of the adjustable bracketing assembly providing 360 degree rotational positioning of the external assembly about the arm element and translation transverse to the axis of rotation relative to the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Andrew H. McGrath
  • Publication number: 20130022390
    Abstract: The creation is an adapter device for tandem bicycle. The tandem bicycle consists of the bicycle and the connected bicycle. The adapter device comprises the universal joint and twist apparatus. The universal joint is connected to the scheduled placed of the seat tube, so the reaction force caused by rugged roads can be eliminated by the device when riders make a turn. About the twist apparatus, which links the connected bicycle, the flexible components in the twist apparatus can make the preceding part of bicycle more stable at the start or at low speed in riding, so the bicycle can have good stability and mobility, and is easy to ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: BIPEACE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD
    Inventor: BOR CHING LIN
  • Patent number: 8230863
    Abstract: A medical assembly includes a platform which is securely mountable to an operating room fixture, and a plurality of arms or arm modules coupled to the platform and each with a grasper for holding a surgical instrument or port. The medical assembly is particularly applicable for laparoscopic surgery although it is not limited thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Mini-Lap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Sundaram Ravikumar, H. Allan Alward, Steven J. Wysocki, Guy L. Osborne
  • Patent number: 8113733
    Abstract: A system includes a support, an actuator and a swivel joint coupling the actuator to the support. The swivel joint includes a first base member, a second base member, and a spider positioned between the first and second base members. The spider includes a center support and first and second bearing support elements. Each bearing support element has an arcuate surfaces adapted to form joints with the first and second base members. In one embodiment, at least one shim element disposed is between at least one of the first and second bearing support elements and the center support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: MTS Systems Corporation
    Inventor: John A. Bushey
  • Patent number: 7802939
    Abstract: A swivel joint is provided comprising a first base member, a second base member, and a spider positioned between the first and second base members. The spider includes a center support and first and second bearing support elements. Each bearing support element has an arcuate surfaces adapted to form joints with the first and second base members. In one embodiment, at least one shim element disposed is between at least one of the first and second bearing support elements and the center support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: MTS Systems Corporation
    Inventor: John A. Bushey
  • Patent number: 7681866
    Abstract: A fencing connector and fencing system utilizing fencing connectors. The fencing connectors include a swivel mount having a cavity configured to receive a first swivel assembly. The first swivel assembly is rotatable about a first axis within the swivel mount. A second swivel assembly is rotatably attached to the first swivel assembly. The second swivel assembly is rotatable about a second axis. The second swivel assembly further having a pocket configured to receive a structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Ryan Lehmann
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6890120
    Abstract: This invention relates to a hinge for interconnecting sections of a floating dock and for interconnecting walkways with floating docks. This hinge protects docks from being damaged by stress exerted by the side to side or up and down motion of the wave, storm or high winds. This hinge can also be used for reconstructing old damaged docks. The hinge comprises two stackable sheet of twisting members which are preferably flat, each having an arcuate front end for facilitating a twisting motion of the twisting members relative to each other, a mounting plate, and a central opening for accomodating a pivot rod; a fastener for keeping the hinge components together; and, preferably washers to protect the outside surfaces of the twisting members from abrasion. One side of the hinge preferably attaches to a dock section having a dock joint bracket while the other end preferably attaches to a plain corner bracket to allow vertical pivotal movement of the dock sections in response to wave motions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Wayne A. Hozie
  • Patent number: 6708940
    Abstract: A mounting unit (11) for a attaching a working unit such as a video projector to a mounting surface which can be horizontal or vertical or at some angle intermediate the horizontal and the vertical comprising: an anchorage (12) whereby the unit can be attached to the mounting surface; a beam (13); a carrier (18) comprising in combination a holding plate (19) and a mounting plate; the carrier being adapted to provide for the attachment of a working unit to the mounting plate; a first pivot (20a) whereby a first end of the beam is pivotably attached to the anchorage to enable the beam to pivot about a first axis (a1); a second pivot whereby the other end of the beam to the first end is pivotably attached to the holding plate to enable the holding plate to pivot about a second axis (a2) parallel to the first axis; a third pivot (24) whereby the holding plate can pivot about a third axis perpendicular to the second axis; a fourth pivot (23) whereby the holding plate can pivot about a fourth axis (a4) perpendicula
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Ligertwood
  • Patent number: 6709183
    Abstract: A joint having a metal or plastic core and a metal or plastic outer shell. The core has two studs extending in a direction of an axis of rotation and arranged vertically at 180° from each other. The outer shell consists of two half shells, each having a reinforcing segment. A bore with a bore base is provided on each reinforcing segment. Two cup-shaped elastomeric pads are located between the core and the outer shell and are insulated from one another. The elastomeric pads surround the studs which penetrate the bore in the reinforcing segments. A ratio of the stud diameter to the pad thickness is specified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Phoenix AG
    Inventors: Rüdiger Meyer, Jörg Frohn
  • Patent number: 6666611
    Abstract: A three-degree of motion joint comprising a translational joint, a first support member, a first rotational joint, and a second rotational joint. The translational joint allows a first component and a second component to move with respect to each other along the z-axis. The translational joint includes a first translational flexural member that connects a first member and a base member. The first support member is attached to the base member. The first rotational joint allows the first component and the second component to be moved with respect to each other in the &THgr;x direction. The first rotational joint includes a first rotational flexural member that is attached to the first member. The second rotational joint allows the first component and second component to move with respect to each other in the &THgr;y direction. The second rotational joint includes a second rotational flexural member attached to the first support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Alton Hugh Phillips, Douglas Chandler Watson
  • Patent number: 6663498
    Abstract: The present invention provides a golf practice device having a tiltable golf platform. In one embodiment, the platform is supported by an assembly that allows the platform to be controllably adjusted to simulate various golf lies. The device (200) includes a platform surface (250) mounted in a platform frame (202) that is affixed to a base frame (204) through a pair of actuators (205 and 206), each mounted to the base frame by a pivot block assembly (212) and affixed to the platform frame by an end block assembly (400). The platform frame is pivotally affixed to the base frame by a double cross-joint (203) mounted on the platform frame. The pivot block assemblies allow each actuator to adjust to the side angle relative to the actuator, thus allowing the platform to move freely in two different angles preventing unnecessary stress on the double cross-joint and the positions of attachment of the actuators to the base and platform frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Arthur R. Stipan
  • Patent number: 6648583
    Abstract: A parallel kinematics mechanism is provided for uses such as robotics or machining. The mechanism has various limbs, at least some of which are actuatable, for moving an end component with multiple degrees of freedom. The mechanism advantageously facilitates a closed-form solution for the forward kinematics. A joint assembly is provided for use in the parallel kinematics mechanism, the joint assembly having a plurality of revolute joints for connecting to at least three limbs, the joints having non-parallel axes, which intersect at a common point. In various embodiments of the invention, the end component has three, four, five and six degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Shambhu Nath Roy, Michael Merz
  • Patent number: 6546584
    Abstract: A paint pad holder has a pad holder plate with a housing for mounting a handle on the plate. The housing has a guide recess for receiving a head of the handle, and for pivotally mounting the handle for movement about an axis generally parallel to the plane of the pad holder plate. The handle can be pivoted a selected number of degrees relative to the plate, and includes a lock sleeve that can be used for locking the handle in selected angular positions relative to the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Flock Development & Research Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Edmond C. A. Hobden
  • Patent number: 6261023
    Abstract: Articulated part (1) for a stand (2) with an axially rotatable and vertically swivelable articulated arm (3), wherein the articulated part (1) has a pivot pin (6) which can be connected with a carrier (5) by a connection part (4), and wherein the articulated part (1) has a tilting joint (7) for the articulated arm (3), wherein it is provided according to the invention that the articulated part (1) is essentially formed of a one-part plastic injection-molded part (1.1), wherein the tilting joint (7) has two bearing disks (8) formed of sheet metal which have an opening (9) roughly in the center, wherein the bearing disks (8, 8) are embedded parallel to one another at a distance (A) in the plastic injection-molded part (1.1), wherein the openings (9) form a joint bearing (10) for the tilting joint (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Wella Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Bernd Schmitt, Rainer Weigl
  • Patent number: 5794488
    Abstract: A motion transmitting remote control assembly (10) comprising a drive wheel (20) having a plurality of gear teeth (18) and rotatably supported by a drive wheel housing (12) and a driven wheel (16) having a plurality of gear teeth (18) and rotatably supported by a driven wheel housing (14) which is spaced from the drive wheel housing (12). A motion transmitting core element (30), comprising a flexible cable (31) having first and second ends (32 and 34) and a wire (36) wrapped helically about the cable (31) in spaced convolutions, is entrained about the wheels (16 and 20) and is in meshing engagement with the gear teeth (18) for transmitting rotational movement between the wheels (16 and 20). A connector interconnects the first and second ends (32 and 34) of the core element (30) for maintaining the core element (30) entrained about the wheels (16 and 20) regardless of the orientation of the core element (30) as the core element (30) passes through the housings (12 and 14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Triumph Controls, Inc
    Inventor: David P. Yanusko
  • Patent number: 5659361
    Abstract: A tiltable, rotatable and detachable LCD view finder for a camcorder that enables a user to easily take pictures while viewing the LCD viewfinder. The viewfinder can be rotated 360.degree. and tilted 180.degree. relative to the upper surface of the camcorder body. The viewfinder system includes: an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) viewfinder; a downwardly opened recess formed on a predetermined edge portion of said LCD viewfinder and having a first side wall, a second side wall, a back wall and a semicircular end; and a tiltable, rotatable and detachable compound joint assembly member fitted into said recess for tiltably, rotatably and detachably connecting the LCD viewfinder, whereby the LCD viewfinder can be tilted, rotated, and detached relative to the camcorder body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Hong Jae Jin
  • Patent number: 5651484
    Abstract: A ladder support accessory is disclosed for pivotally supporting a ladder on a truck rack. The ladder support accessory includes, in one embodiment, a pair of joints mounted to a side rail of the truck rack and a pair of ladder support members pivotably connected to the joints. The ladder support members extend inboard of and substantially transverse to the side rail and are pivotable in a substantially vertical plane between substantially horizontal and vertical positions. A ladder is secured to the ladder support members and is at least partially supported by front and rear rails of the truck rack when the ladder support members are in the horizontal position. The ladder is supported solely by the ladder support members when the ladder support members are pivoted to the vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Lowell S. Fugman
  • Patent number: 5601377
    Abstract: A yoke of a universal joint is substantially U-shaped and includes a base portion and first and second arm portions. A method of producing the yoke includes the sequential steps of: (a) shearing a metal plate which is rectangular in shape and has certain uniform width and thickness so as to form a blank which is rectangular in shape and consists of a middle portion and first and second end portions; (b) squeezing the middle portion of the blank by cold forging so that the middle portion is expanded to have first and second peripheral bulge portions which are opposed to each other and that the expanded middle portion becoming substantially oval in shape and thinner than the first and second end portions in thickness; and (c) pressing the blank with a press machine to produce the yoke so that the expanded middle portion and the first and second end portions of the blank are turned into the base portion and the first and second arm portions of the yoke, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Fuji Kiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masakiyo Ohya
  • Patent number: 5488881
    Abstract: A mechanical transmission mechanism with rolling unit includes an input member, an output member and a transmission medium for transmitting a mechanical input. The input member includes a driving gear which is enveloped in a casing with a peripheral channel that is confined between a partial circumference of the driving gear and an inner face of the casing. The casing has two openings formed on both ends of the peripheral channel and connected respectively and tangentially to a pair of guide channels so as to form a guide path that extends between the input and output members. The transmission medium is a plurality of rolling bodies which are packed in the guide path and which are disposed alternatingly in juxtaposed lines along the guide path. Each of the rolling bodies is in rolling contact with adjacent rolling bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Hung-Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 5446931
    Abstract: This invention relates to a children's playyard and in particular to one including: a central hub having a cover plate and a base, said cover plate being formed with six square openings, said base having four chambers and two recesses, each of said chambers having a circular member having a center hole; a coupling member rotatably received in each of the four chambers of said base and having a hole adapted to receive the circular member of said chamber; a hub leg pivotally connected with the coupling member and each of the two recesses of said central hub; a connector having a sleeve and a pair of lugs pivotally connected with said hub leg; a corner leg inserted into the sleeve of said connector and rotatably connected therewith; a connecting member connected with an upper end of said corner leg; a rail connected between two adjacent connecting members and having a locking device; whereby the children's playyard will not be collapsed accidentally thereby preventing the baby from being hurt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Inventor: Hsieh H. Wei
  • Patent number: 5385506
    Abstract: A hub-spider assembly for a Hooke's joint in which the arms of the spider (2) include a first shaft (4), having a through-hole (41) bored in a central boss (42), the through-hole (41) axis being perpendicular to the axis of the first shaft (4), and a second shaft (5) coupled with slight interference with the first shaft (4) in its through-hole (41). At least one end of the shaft (5) is threaded or predisposed equivalently for coupling. In a double Hooke's joint a rotating coupling is realized by a bearing pair (31, 32) housed in the branches (11, 12) of a hub (1) and support the second shaft (5), the bearings (31, 32) being held in place by end ring-nuts (61, 62) at the threaded pivot ends (51, 52) of the shaft (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Inventor: Enrico Aurora
  • Patent number: 5381706
    Abstract: A remote control assembly (10) of the type for translating rotational motion from a drive wheel (12) enclosed in a drive wheel housing (27) to a driven wheel (16) enclosed in a driven wheel housing (28) by means of a core element (18) entrained around both wheels (12,16) in a closed all-tension system is disclosed. The assembly (10) includes first and second rigid end members (24,26) attached to respective end portions (20,22) of the core element (18). The assembly is characterized by a connector (38) for interconnecting the rigid end members (24,26) and defining a first plurality of parallel pivot axes (42) and a second plurality of parallel pivot axes (45) perpendicular to said first plurality of parallel pivot axes (42) about which said end members (24,26) pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Teleflex Incorporated
    Inventors: David P. Yanusko, Frank J. Rocchino, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5324235
    Abstract: A Cardan-type universal joint has a pair of joint bodies (11) each having a cylindrical hub (12) for securing thereto a rotary shaft (10), and a cross-shaped member (15) for connecting the pair of joint bodies together. Each of the hubs has at least one first slit, or escape slit, (20) formed therein radially inwardly from the circumference thereof having a sector shape with a sectoral angle of not less than 180 degrees and being disposed on a plane intersecting the axis of the shaft at an angle, thereby enabling the joint body to elastically deform in a spring-like manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Nippon Piston Ring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Tomii, Yukio Kaneko
  • Patent number: 5314425
    Abstract: A connective joint comprises the following seven elements:(a) Four quarter spheres arranged in adjacent quadrant relationship to form a substantially spherical element or "ball". The quarter spheres are provided with grooved edges that form two substantially perpendicular grooves extending around the spherical element;(b) Two hinge elements, each having a ring shaped portion that is inserted in an individual one of the two grooves;(c) A device for applying a force between two diametrically opposing ones of the quarter spheres in the spherical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Amrus Corporation
    Inventor: Vladimir Shpigel
  • Patent number: 5292077
    Abstract: Flow rate of material passing through a partition diaphragm of a ball mill is regulated. One end of a disc controller is mounted on an outer shell of the ball mill, and a control disc is mounted on the other end through a diaphragm chamber formed inside the partition diaphragm. The disc controller performs an opening and closing operation of a discharge opening by moving to and from a center core A disk adjust bar 41, a universal joint 45 and a disc holder bar 50 are connected in such a manner as to be separately bendable with respect to each other. The opening and closing operation performed by the control disc is not affected by deformation of the outer shell of the ball mill or any positional change during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Kurimoto, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuo Inui, Nobuhito Yagi
  • Patent number: 5277280
    Abstract: Brake force is transmitted between a single axially movable push rod (6) and a brake block holder (3) by an intermediate force transmission member (22) to accommodate for movements along the wheel axis. This intermediate member (22) has cylindrical surfaces cooperating with both the block holder and the push rod end. The cylindrical surface (22') of the member (22), which cooperates with the brake block holder portion (21), is arcuate with its circle center coinciding with the center for the cylindrical push rod end (6'). A shackle (24) held on the brake block holder is biassed by springs (28) forward toward a brake application direction to retain and frictionally engage protrusions (23) extending from the actuator push rod (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Sab Wabco AB
    Inventor: Anders O. G. Stjarne
  • Patent number: 5218880
    Abstract: A joint is provided between a transmission operating member of a transmission and a control rod of a transmission gear control mechanism. The joint includes rigid stopper rings for rigidly stopping deformations of resilient deformable members in predetermined directions and thereby rigidly stopping movement of outer sleeves of an outer sleeve unit in the directions crossing joint pins at right angles. The stopper rings are fittingly interposed between the outer sleeves and channel-like end portions of the transmission operating member such that the transmission operating member and control rod are relatively less movable in the direction crossing their axial directions at right angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaki Mizutani
  • Patent number: 5211498
    Abstract: A folding joint for a foldable playyard having a base frame having two connecting members pivotably secured at the inside for holding two rails permitting them to be held in a longitudinally aligned position or folded up into a collapsed position. The connecting members each have an axial hole at one end for inserting either rail, two through holes on two opposite side walls thereof, and a track connected between the two through holes. The rails each have a pivot hole secured between the two through holes by a headed pin. The two rails are held in the longitudinally aligned position when the head of the headed pin is engaged in one through hole; and the two rails are allowed to be folded up when the head of the headed pin is rotated to the other through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Inventor: Sieno T. M. Huang
  • Patent number: 5188475
    Abstract: A connector for handles and shoulder belts of bags, or other traveling containers, includes a base member (1) provided with holes (2) or other mechanism for securing it to the bag. Provided at the ends of the base member, on the exposed face, are equal and parallel protrusions (101) provided with respective transverse holes (5) aligned with each other and having pivoted thereon, by use of a spindle (4) or any other suitable device, a body member (3) which may effect a 180.degree. oscillation about the spindle and which--when disposed upright and abutted against the base member--exposes a recess also directed upwards (7). The flattened end portion of an axially hollow stem (8) is pivotably connected by use of a screw (10) or any other suitable device, orthogonally to the pivotal spindle (4) of the member so that it can effect an oscillation of sufficient amplitude, the end portion of the handle or shoulder-belt (M-T) being secured by means of a screw or any other suitable device within the hollow stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: Finduck S.r.L.
    Inventor: Pietro Mannato
  • Patent number: 5186229
    Abstract: An operator for a window shade has a connection member provided with an internal detent which extends radially inwardly of a hexagonal bore in the connection member, and which is received within a locking recess in an operating rod of corresponding hexagonal cross-section to lock the rod within the connecting member upon insertion of the end of the rod into the connection member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Henry C. Hsu
  • Patent number: 5101681
    Abstract: These joints are particularly useful for transmitting a flux (electrical, optical, liquid or gaseous) either entirely across the joint, or from one side of the joint to devices mounted on the joint itself that use such a flux. Such devices can, for example, be motors to drive the joint itself. The interlocking bodies are typically but not necessarily circular rings, mounted to a common internal structure that permits each body to rotate about its own axis. The resulting joints can rotate in all directions with a very high angular range--in most cases limited only by the angle subtended by connecting stems used to mount the joint to a base or to mount objects to the joint for motion. Some of these joints have hollow central enclosures for passing flexible wires or tubing to carry the flux, so that the flux can be transmitted across or into the joint with the same high degree of freedom, and yet without slip rings, brushes, or other expensive motionaccommodating components subject to wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Assignee: Ameus Corporation
    Inventor: Vladimir Shpigel
  • Patent number: 5087168
    Abstract: A device is provided for tiltably connecting the boom section of a backhoe unit to the dipper section of the backhoe unit. The device includes a first member mountable to the dipper section so as to be rotatable about a first pivot axis transverse to the dipper section. The first member is connectable to the boom cylinder of the backhoe which pivots the first member about the first axis. A second member is provided which is attachable to the boom section of the backhoe. Respective coupling brackets extend from the first and second members to pivotably couple the first and second members and enable them to rotate about a second pivot axis generally orthogonal to the first pivot axis. Fluid cylinder mounting brackets extend from the first and second members adjacent the edges thereof to mount a pair of fluid cylinders in a diagonal crosswise configuration between the first and second members for tilting the first and second members relative to each other about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: Versa-Hoe Sales & Leasing Inc.
    Inventors: James R. McKinnon, Dennis J. Cogan, Joseph J. Riccardi
  • Patent number: 5062765
    Abstract: A more efficient wind power generation system is afforded by extending tower heights to several hundred meters to operate wind catching rotors and generators aligned with the wind direction at various levels along the tower. With multiple vertically cascaded wind generators and higher velocity winds at higher elevations greater power is produced in a system characterized by a small footprint. This is particularly enhanced by a single mast construction, which is supported by a dynamic guy wire tensioning system to accomodate varying lateral forces primarily caused by the change in direction of wind loads on the tower. The mast is built from modular sections connected together at articulated joints, between which the various rotors are stationed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Inventor: H. Reginald McConachy
  • Patent number: 5038667
    Abstract: This invention relates to improvements made to an anti-theft device for conventional motor vehicles and the method by which the device is made, which device secures the hand brake lever to the gear shift lever. A device is already known, which is made up of two limbs which are pivotally connected together. This invention adds an additional improvement which allows for further rotation of the limbs on an additional axis and further adds an expanded bore in the clamping arm which permits the device to fit a wide range of automobiles. As well the device itself and the method by which it is constructed have also been improved to eliminate virtually all welding except in the area of the locking element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: M.D. Motolok Developments B.V.
    Inventor: Jack Slater
  • Patent number: 4893370
    Abstract: A hand tool for cleaning smooth surfaces having a holder in the form of a flat box; a sponge block and a squeegee, spaced apart from and parallel to the sponge block; a swivelable handle disposed on the holder, on an incline and laterally about an axis extending vertically to the holder and an axis extending parallel to the holder, with two joints, disposed one above the other, with both joints locked in a particular handle position by a common locking and unlocking element in the form of a bolt-shaped and/or bush-shaped slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Inventor: Manfred Klotz
  • Patent number: 4890948
    Abstract: The accident prevention guard is intended for homokinetic--as well as wide-angle--joints which have an end fork, an inner fork and a central body. The guard is made up of a shell structure for the protection of the central body, held through two annular supports by the central body and able to freely rotate with respect thereto. It is completed with an end cone for the shaft guard, suitable for completing the overlap on the side of the inner fork. The shell structure is made up of two parts, matched to each other along a plane transverse to the axis of the central body; each of the parts is made to rest on and engage with the body of the homokinetic wide-angle joint so as to maintain--as sole freedom degree--the rotation about the axis of the same body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Edi Bondioli