Lockable At Fixed Position Patents (Class 403/83)
  • Publication number: 20120009007
    Abstract: A latch fitting for locking two components includes a first fitting part and a second fitting part. At least one locking bolt is movably arranged on the first fitting part and is guided on at least one longitudinally extended guide element along an adjustment track. The guide element includes an end that faces toothing of the second fitting part. A drive element is coupled to the at least one locking bolt for moving the at least one locking bolt along the adjustment track to lock the latch fitting with the toothing of the second fitting part. The at least one guide element includes a stop for limiting the adjustment track of the at least one locking bolt when moving the at least one locking bolt against the locking direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Frank Fassbender, Oliver Steffen
  • Publication number: 20120001049
    Abstract: A latch 30 for use in a track assembly 16 for adjusting the position of a vehicle seat 10 has a one-piece construction and operates non-linearly an X-Y plane within a space 20 defined by the first and second track members 17 and 19 of the track assembly 16. A blocker member 44 limits the latch member 31 from disengaging the first and second track members 17 and 19 and includes an optimized latch and track engagement construction and a separate blocker member 44 for optimizing engagement of the latch 30 and track member 17 and moveable for allowing disengagement of the latch 30. The track assembly 16 containing a part includes an actuator 34 for operating the latch 30 and the actuator 34 includes a connector 32 for pivotally connecting the actuator 34 to the track assembly 16 and for connecting the latch 30 to one of the first and second track members 17 and 19.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventors: Kurt A. Selbold, Karl G. Sponsler, Michael J. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20110308342
    Abstract: The invention refers to coupling mechanism and a linear actuator incorporating such a mechanism for releasably interconnecting first and second mechanical members (1, 2), longitudinally movable relative to each other, a first one of said mechanical members (1) pivotably supporting an end (F) of a first link of a knee link mechanism (3), also incorporating a second link member (3b), which first and second link members are pivotally connected to another in a knee joint (E), a control rod (4) pivotally connected to said knee joint (E), the end (D) of the second link member (3b) remote from the knee joint (E) being connected to a hook arm (5), the opposite end of which is pivotally supported at a support point (B) stationary positioned relative to said first mechanical member (1), said hook arm (5) having a hook (5a) facing said second mechanical member and being in mechanical engagement (A) with a shoulder (6, 6?) on said second mechanical member (2) as long as the said knee joint (E) is kept in a substantially
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Pontus Claesson, Torbjörn Lövgren
  • Publication number: 20110278517
    Abstract: Example methods, apparatus, system, and articles of manufacture for releasably locking components that are moveable relative to one another are disclosed herein. A disclosed example locking apparatus includes a locking device mountable to a first component and including at least one locking member. The example system also includes a catch member mountable to a second component. The catch member has a plurality of substantially similarly formed catches. The locking member is engageable with at least one catch in a plurality of predetermined catching positions in at least one of a releasable, form-locking manner or a releasable, force-locking manner. The example system also includes a force member to produce a relative movement between the locking member and the at least one catch. In at least a partial region of the catch member, at least a first catching position, a second catching position and a third catching position are traversable by the locking member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas Deuring, Thomas Grotzinger, Jurgen Grotz
  • Publication number: 20110262215
    Abstract: A swing head assembly with a swing head and pin affixed to a first horizontal member. A vertical member with a rosette positioned in coaxial alignment therewith. The rosette has radially arranged cut-outs for receiving the swing head assembly. The swing head assembly is rotatably coupled to the rosette. A second horizontal member has a horizontal member head at an end thereof. The rosette is also able to also receive mating elements of the horizontal member head, the second horizontal member having therein an internal wedge assembly with a wedge portion that extends and retracts from the horizontal member head to lock and unlock the horizontal member head to the rosette. The invention further includes a horizontal member having a swing head assembly at one end and an internal wedge assembly at the second end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Steve Howard Thacker
  • Publication number: 20110243646
    Abstract: The invention relates to a securing device for securing medical accessory units in particular to a table (2) for a medical imaging apparatus, having a frame unit (3), a locking unit (5) that is designed for locking to the table (2), and an adjusting unit (4) for setting at least one locking position, in which the adjusting unit (4) has at least one guide unit (25) for a guided locking motion into the at least one locking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: THOMAS KUNDNER, STEPHAN ZINK
  • Publication number: 20110222958
    Abstract: A self-locking slide bar has a rod body and a shower head fixing seat sleeving the rod body. A sleeve seat for fixing a shower handle is outside the fixing seat. The fixing seat has a sliding upper and lower seat cover, and a floating block. The floating block sleeves the rod body, and a friction plate is provided on the inner wall of the floating block. An orifice is located on the contrary position to the friction plate and contacts the rod body. The floating block is movably positioned in a containing cavity made up of the upper and lower cover of the sliding seat. In the normal state, the lower end of the floating block contacts the sliding seat lower cover, the orifice and the friction plate act on two sides of the rod body, and the shower head fixing seat is fixed on the rod body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: XIAMEN SOLEX HIGH-tECH INDUSTRIES CO., LTD
    Inventor: Renzhong Li
  • Publication number: 20110192437
    Abstract: A protective shelter that may be used to protect observers, players, and others from inclement weather during a sporting event, for example, includes an arcuate-shaped, flexible cover with side portions configured to receive side frame members, which in turn are connected to elongated cover support members coupled to the cover. The various frame members and cover support members may be connected with a number of different types of couplers. In addition, a majority of the side frame members and support members may remain coupled to the flexible cover after the protective shelter has been disassembled and placed in a transportable configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Adams
  • Publication number: 20110188925
    Abstract: A joint unit comprises a lock mechanism in which a ball-like joint section provided at the base end of an arm is housed in a holder formed at an end of a cylindrical case. As the joint section is brought into pressed contact against an inner surface of the holder, the lock mechanism locks a pivotal angle. In the lock mechanism, in response to a manual operation of a knob, a bolt is caused to project into the case and this pressing force is transmitted to a roller-like first pressing body and then to a second pressing body placed in contact therewith. Further, the pressing force from the first pressing body is transmitted to a pressure block and then the pressing force from this pressure block brings the joint section into pressed contact against the holder inner surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: BIG ALPHA CO., INC.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Komine, Manabu Komine
  • Publication number: 20110150569
    Abstract: A barrier assembly includes a barrier having an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end. The interior surface bounds a chamber that is adapted to receive a ballast. The barrier also has an internal sidewall extending between top and bottom surfaces of the barrier so as to bound a passage extending completely through the barrier between the top and bottom surfaces. The barrier assembly also includes an elongated coupler extending down through the passage and projecting below the bottom surface of the barrier. A means for securing the coupler within the passage is formed on or attached to the coupler. The means for securing the coupler within the passage prevents the coupler from being removed from the passage while allowing the coupler to freely rotate within the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: OFF THE WALL PRODUCTS LLC
    Inventor: Marc E. Christensen
  • Publication number: 20110148052
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device that comprises: a box 100; a tilting frame 200; and a passive joint 300 that enables tilting of the frame relative to the box; and joint locking means 400. The device further comprises: an accelerometer (500) for measuring the transverse acceleration to which said tilting frame (200) is subjected; and a control circuit for activating the locking means if the transverse acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold. The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a tricycle, provided with said device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: VELEANCE
    Inventors: Jacques Quemere, Jerome Gaillard-Groleas
  • Patent number: 7901434
    Abstract: A vertebral rod assembly with first and second members that may rotate about a first axis. Each of the first and second members includes a base and a vertebral support rod extending from the base. An extension extends from the base on the first member into an opening formed in the base of the second member. A ring is sized to extend around the extension. A fastener engages with the ring to lock the first and second members, and to prevent relative rotation between the first member and second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy D. Drewry, William Barry Null
  • Publication number: 20110023257
    Abstract: A domestic appliance, such as a surface cleaning apparatus, comprises a fluid flow path including a dirt inlet and a clean air outlet with a suction motor and a treatment member provided in the fluid flow path. A first part of the surface cleaning apparatus has an opening and a second part of the surface cleaning apparatus has a key receiving portion. A key is insertable into the opening and the key receiving portion. The first part and the second part are secured together when the key is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: G.B.D. CORP.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Patent number: 7762735
    Abstract: An apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention includes a socket having at least three ball support points to constrain a ball, and a yoke rotatably coupled to the socket, the yoke having an axis of rotation that intersects the ball when the ball is positioned in the socket, the yoke rotatable to a closed position in which the yoke captures the ball in the socket, and the yoke rotatable to an open position in which the yoke does not capture the ball in the socket. According to some embodiments, the yoke is biased in the closed position such as, for example, by a spring. The yoke may be rotationally coupled to the socket at one or more locations, and the axis of rotation may intersect the ball when the ball is in the socket either through the center of the ball or at an off-center location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Cedar Mesa Design Company, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Brittin Clayton, III, Richard Adams
  • Publication number: 20100135715
    Abstract: A folding device with a safe retainer comprises a base and a seat axially connected with each other, and a quick release assembly axially coupled to the connected base and seat, wherein the base includes a hole disposed on one side thereof and a tab mounted on another side thereof, and the seat includes a first connecting sleeve to correspond to the hole and a second connecting sleeve to correspond to the tab; the quick release assembly includes an engaging member and an adjusting shaft member axially connected with each other, and the engaging member includes a bore disposed on a lower end thereof to insert a first stem, and the adjusting shaft member includes a coupling segment formed on a lower side thereof to be pivoted to the tab of the base by using a second stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Bill Huang
  • Publication number: 20100001156
    Abstract: When locking a medical imaging device detector in position to generate a medical image, an articulating arm includes top and bottom portions, coupled to a gantry and to a distal portion that is coupled to a detector. The top and bottom portions each include an over-the-center bell crank locking mechanism with a shank couple to a central handle. Each shank includes a pair of flanges that are coupled to a pair of actuators by both a pivot pin and a spring mechanism. Each actuator is coupled to a crank. When the handle is rotated to a locked position, a sliding lock extends to lock the articulating arm in position relative to the gantry, and a lever arm is extended to cause a shaft to rotate. Rotation of the shaft actuates a sliding pin linkage, which urges a pair of pins outward to lock the articulating arm in position relative to the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Joseph J. Stefan
  • Publication number: 20090285625
    Abstract: A quick connect assembly having a female terminal exhibiting an interior passage communicating with a connecting end. The passage is defined by inwardly facing surfaces associated with a plurality of linearly extending and peripherally arrayed beams, the passage exhibiting an enlarged profile an inwardly recessed distance from the connecting end. A male terminal includes a projecting portion generally matching the enlarged profile. The male terminal is inserted into the female terminal, causing the beams to outwardly deflect, following which the beams inwardly retract concurrent with the projecting portion seating within the inner profile. A linearly displaceable and sleeve shaped covering cap is spring supported upon the male terminal and displaceable between a first anti-biased position permitting outward deflection of the beams and a second biased position seating over projecting ends of the beams to prevent inadvertent disengagement of the terminals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Michael V. Reasoner
  • Publication number: 20090279943
    Abstract: A peripheral positioner includes a plurality of links that are rotatably coupled to one another. The peripheral positioner can be used to position a peripheral device on various surfaces and/or objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: William R. Wylde, KeLong Zhao
  • Patent number: 7401538
    Abstract: This invention relates to an F figure wrench that comprises a holding rod, a moving part, a turning rod and a driving part. At one end of the holding rod, a concavity is made and two lugs are implemented; the concavity is made as a guide hole to accommodate the moving part, the lug holes of the two lugs are used as pivot holes for the driving part to be pivot-connected with the holding rod. Furthermore, a penetration is made on the holding rod and the moving part concentrically, and intersects through the concavity for installation of the turning rod. A cam eccentric to the turning rod axis is implemented on the turning rod; when the turning rod is turned, the moving part is pushed by the eccentric cam and moving along the guide hole in the holding rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Chin-Shun Cheng
  • Publication number: 20080152423
    Abstract: Device for locking the articulated joint in the longitudinal direction between the plate of a dust mop and the handle, which permits deactivation and subsequent reactivation of the locking of the articulated joint between the handle and the plate in a longitudinal direction, carried out by the user with his feet instead of his hands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: TTS TECNO TROLLEY SYSTEM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Zorzo Renato
  • Patent number: 7385522
    Abstract: A portable security device for displaying articles of merchandise in a retail environment has a base formed with a plurality of holes arranged in predetermined patterns for mounting the device on a plurality of different support structures. A housing containing an alarm system, a retractor and an alarm cable is contained within the housing. The housing is locked on the base by a key operated tumbler attached to the base. The base is mounted on the various support structures by fasteners, the attachment heads thereof being concealed within the housing. A plunger switch at the outer end of the alarm cable is activated when the cable is attached to an item of merchandise. An audible alarm is sounded if the integrity of the alarm cable is comprised or if the item of merchandise is removed therefrom. In a modified embodiment, a space is provided between the alarm and mounting base providing increased sound alarm level in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Ronald M. Marsilio
  • Publication number: 20080050173
    Abstract: A connection element 2, 3 for attaching a horizontal element 7, 8 to a vertical element is proposed. In this arrangement, a free end of the horizontal element 7, 8 comprises at least one top projection 18 and at least one bottom projection 17; and on the vertical element 56 at least one hooking-in aperture 20 for accommodating the top projection 18 of the horizontal element 7, 8 and at least one horizontal projection 25 for the vertical support of the bottom projection 17 of the horizontal element 7, 8 are provided, wherein a clamping element 30 with locking means 32 is provided for horizontal securing of the bottom projection 17 of the horizontal element 7, 8.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: Veyl GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bruder, Horst Schober
  • Publication number: 20070280779
    Abstract: An apparatus for locking a universal joint is provide. The universal joint comprises first and second ends, a first member pivotally connected to said first end about a first axis, and a second member pivotally connected to the first member about a second axis wherein the first axis and the second axis are perpendicular to and intersect each other and wherein the second end is operably connected to the second member. The apparatus comprises a ring rotationally connected to the second pivotable member about a plane containing the second axis, a restraint for restraining the ring from rotation about the first axis, and a lock for locking the ring relative to the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Francis Ruddy
  • Patent number: 7293392
    Abstract: An elongate flexible track is flexibly positionable from an initial straight configuration to a non-straight configuration having a horizontal, vertical or compound curvature in which it is lockable with locking elements. The track has a plurality of stud receiving components each being formed with a horizontal base wall having a longitudinal edge and a transverse edge, a side wall on a first side of the track and a side wall on a second side of the track, the side walls extending vertically from respective longitudinal edges of the base wall. The base and side walls define a space in which a stud end of an elongate stud can be mounted. Adjacent stud receiving components are joined by linking elements which include pivot elements about which the linking elements are adjustable in one or more directions. At least one locking elements passage is provided on each side of the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Oziflex Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Andreas Krumbacher
  • Patent number: 7273994
    Abstract: An electrical discharge machine for improving the guide alignment base structure consisting of a guide alignment base having vertical threaded holes. Furthermore, the guide alignment base has axial adjustment holes that are respectively aligned with the vertical threaded holes, the diameters of the axial adjustment holes slightly larger than the diameters of the vertical threaded holes to enable the insertion of adjustment screws through the axial adjustment holes and fastening into the vertical threaded holes. With a spherical body in between serving as a center, the adjustment screws tilt the guide alignment base forward, backward, leftward, and rightward to adjust the perpendicularity of the guide. Horizontal adjustment screws through the guide alignment base secure the guide alignment base transversely such that the guide alignment base effectively achieves stable positioning to thereby prevent the vertical and horizontal deviation of the guide alignment base when it is impacted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Castek Mechatron Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chiao-chin Shih
  • Patent number: 7219681
    Abstract: A tent that includes a swivel portion is disclosed. The tent includes a canopy, a plurality of tent frame components and a swivel portion coupled to at least one of the tent frame components and the canopy. The swivel portion pivots between a relaxed position in which the canopy is in a relaxed state and a tensioned position in which the canopy is in a tensioned state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew H. Hamilton-Jones
  • Patent number: 7150578
    Abstract: A clamp system for attaching accessory devices to a railing structure includes a first clamping jaw member and a second clamping jaw member designed to clamp on a railing structure. An accessory mounting device includes a cylindrical collar portion with a plurality of diametrically aligned holes arranged around the circumference. One of the clamping jaw members has an opening, sized to receive the collar portion and one pair of holes that can be aligned with the holes of the collar portion. When the mounting device is in a desired orientation, a pin is inserted through the aligned holes to hold the orientation. A locking nut is mounted on a threaded portion of the collar portion and, when tightened, tends to withdraw the collar portion against the pin, firmly securing the assembly together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Carmen R. Porco
  • Patent number: 7090231
    Abstract: An adjustable front fork blade for a stroller includes a sleeve, a base movably mounted in the sleeve, and a connecting tube mounted between the sleeve and the base. Thus, the front fork blade has an adjustable length so that when two front fork blades are mounted on a front wheel, the length of each of the two front fork blades can be adjusted to match each other so as to calibrate and center the position of the front wheel, thereby preventing the front wheel from being oscillated or vibrated due to deflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Unique Product & Design Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gordon Liao
  • Patent number: 7073299
    Abstract: A curved metal track for receiving a series of metal studs and forming a part of a curved metal wall. The track comprises a plurality of sections with each section being pivotally connected to an adjacent section. Structurally each section comprises a base plate having opposed first and second end portions. Formed in the first end portion is a slit or opening. The second end portion of each section is adapted to be inserted into the slit or opening of an adjacently disposed section. A pivot connector is utilized to pivotally connect the first end portion of one section with the second end portion of another section. There is also provided a pair of opposed stud tabs that extend normal to the base plate and which are adapted to be secured to the sides of a stud. By pivotally connecting the individual sections of the track, the track can be curved and accordingly can be configured to form a part of a curved metal wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael L. Torres
  • Patent number: 6969078
    Abstract: A third wheel collapsing device for a golf club cart includes a third wheel support unit consisting of a connect base having a fitting member with an upper inclined surface, and a lock block on the upper inclined surface. A spring chamber is continually formed in both the fitting member and the lock block for receiving a spring therein. A control rod is movably fitted in a center hole of both the fitting member and the lock block and through the spring, and has its lower end pivotally connected with an eccentric plate. The eccentric plate is swung up or down to move down or move up the control rod so that the lock block is also moved down to alters its position a little to firmly contact with an inner surface of a main frame of a golf club cart or to separate from the main frame, assembling or disassembling the third wheel support unit with or from the main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Unique Product & Design Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gordon Liao
  • Patent number: 6918689
    Abstract: An auxiliary light assembly is provided for a tractor having a front-mounted implement. The assembly includes a lower support and an upper support pivotal with respect to the lower support. The lower support has a cylindrical member which is attached to a frame. Detent recesses are formed in an upper end surface of the lower support. The upper support has a lamp housing attached to an end of a support rod, and a detent member. The detent member is selectively received by the recesses to releasably hold the upper support in selected positions relative to the lower support. A bushing member is received by the support members to maintain axial alignment thereof. A spring is received by the support members, and is biased to urge the support members towards each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Keith Jonathan Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6910708
    Abstract: A collapsible stroller including a lockable hinge and a seat assembly pivotally mounted on the stroller frame. With the use of a seat strap attached to the seat assembly, the stroller can be collapsed using one hand. Pulling on the seat strap pivots the seat assembly to a position in which engagement surfaces on the seat assembly engage with the hinge latch of the lockable hinge. Engaging the hinge latch with the seat assembly unlocks the lockage hinge allowing the stroller to collapse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurseygoods Co., Ltd..
    Inventors: James A. Sack, Glenn E. Gehr, Gregg R. Espenshade
  • Patent number: 6886852
    Abstract: A foldable golf cart includes two main rods, and a handle connected to the main rods by means of a joining member, which includes left and right parts respectively coupled to the main rods, an intermediate part positioned between the left and the right parts and coupled to the handle, a knob arranged next to the right part, and a pivotal bolt inserted through the above parts and the knob; the left and the right parts have radial teeth opposing radial teeth of the intermediate part; the knob and the right part have protrusions, and slopes between the protrusions on opposing sides such that space can be provided between the parts, and the radial teeth disengage for allowing angular displacement of the left and the right parts relative to the intermediate part when the knob is turned such that the protrusions contact lower ends of the slopes of the right part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: Pao-Hsien Cheng, Ying-Hsiung Cheng, Michel Don Wade
  • Publication number: 20040247377
    Abstract: A device for connecting support legs to furnishing elements comprises a first connecting member which is to be secured to a leg, and a support unit which is to be secured to a furnishing element. The support unit comprises a second connecting member which can be selectively clamped to the first connecting member by clamping means. The first and the second connecting member comprises complementary angular-reference means which cooperate to define a plurality of predetermined orientations of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member. In use, the clamping means engage respective clamping seats which are unequivocally determined in accordance with the orientation adopted by the first connecting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Paolo Consolini, Fabio Silvestri
  • Publication number: 20040247378
    Abstract: The present invention is a pin-fuse joint generally utilized in a beam-to-column joint assembly subject to extreme seismic loading. The pin-fuse joint resists bending moments and shears generated by these loads. The joint is comprised of standard structural steel building materials, but may be applied to structures comprised of structural steel, reinforced concrete, and or composite materials, e.g., a combination of structural steel and reinforced concrete. The beam-to-column assembly is comprised of a column and a beam and a plate assembly that extends between the column and the beam. The plate assembly is welded to the column and is attached to the beam via the pin-fuse joint. The pin fuse joint is created by a pin connection through the beam and the connection plates of the plate assembly at the web of the beam. Additionally, both the plate assembly and the beam have curved flange end connectors that sit flush against one another separated only by a brass shim when the beam and plate assembly are joined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: Mark P. Sarkisian
  • Patent number: 6769831
    Abstract: A fastener assembly is provided that permits the quick connection and disconnection of various objects, including stowage bins. The fastener assembly includes a tubular connector for engaging a pin. The tubular connector may define a keyhole having a head end and a slot extending circumferentially from the head end. The head end is sized to receive an end portion of the pin and the slot has a width selected to engage the end portion of the pin. Thus, the end portion of the pin may be inserted through the head end and the tubular connector may then be rotated such that the end portion of the pin is engaged within the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Roberto C. Aquino, Merlin R. Beason
  • Publication number: 20040141802
    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: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Sean William Tucker
  • Patent number: 6719319
    Abstract: A collapsing device for the third wheel of a golf cart includes a fixing base, a wheel frame, and a pin. The fixing base is U-shaped to form an interior hollow for the sleeve to fit in, having an insert groove respectively in each sidewall. The wheel frame has its bottom assembled with a third wheel, and its top provided with a slide groove at opposite sides and a through hole pivotally combined with a sleeve. The pin is inserted in the slide groove, having both ends protruding out of the slide sleeve and its intermediate portion clasped by a spring, which has its other end connected with a cover member fixedly mounted on the wheel frame. Thus, the pin is pulled by the spring and stuck in the upper or the lower insert groove for stabilizing the third wheel in the collapsed or the expanded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Unique Product & Design Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gordon Liao
  • Patent number: 6665942
    Abstract: A string trimmer comprising an elongate shaft and a cutting head rotatably mounted on one end of the shaft. A cutting member which extends from the cutting head. An attachment is pivotally mounted on the string trimmer by at least one pivot mechanism, wherein the pivot mechanism comprises a latching mechanism about which the attachment is capable of latchably rotating relative to the string trimmer. The attachment is a barrier which is capable of being used by an operator to move vegetation away from a path swept out by the cutting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Richardson, Michael Wilson
  • Patent number: 6632170
    Abstract: An articulated arm for holding surgical instruments, having elongated arm members; rotational joints connecting the arm members end to end, such that members are pivotable about the joints and at least one of the joints is selectively lockable by fluid pressure; and a plurality of tubes communicating fluid pressure between two adjacent joints. When two adjacent members are pivoted relative to one another, the tubes connecting a particular pair of joints remains substantially stationary with respect to the arm member connecting that pair of joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Biomec Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan S. Bohanan, Daniel N. Kelsch, Alexander K. Smith
  • Patent number: 6616367
    Abstract: A position adjusting apparatus for a back of a stroller includes an engaging rod, a controlling slide member, and a positioning block. The positioning block is fixedly connected to at least one handle support rod of the stroller, and has several engaging protrusions each having a positioning gap formed adjacent thereto. The engaging rod is movably received in a lower tube portion of a frame of the back, and is connected to the controlling slide member movable along an outer side of the lower tube portion. A pivotal rod is connected to the positioning block and the lower tube portion, and passes through an elongated hole of the engaging rod to pivot the back frame on the positioning block. The engaging rod is biased by a spring to extend outward from the lower tube portion such that an engaging lower part thereof engages a selected one of the engaging protrusions to fix the back frame in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Ying-Hsien Cheng
  • Patent number: 6550795
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension and alignment device therefor is provided. The suspension includes a suspension control arm connected to an axle of the vehicle and having one end pivotally connected to a bracket extending from a frame of the vehicle. The end of the control arm is capable of rotation about a first axis extending transverse to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The suspension further includes a thrust washer disposed between one wall of the bracket and the end of the suspension control arm and a fastener that extends through the bracket, the washer, and the end of the suspension control arm. The washer is configured for engagement by a tool used to rotate the washer and cause movement of the suspension control arm relative to the bracket to thereby align the suspension and a vehicle axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventors: Kraig Schlosser, Martin Blessing, Mark Gunkel
  • Patent number: 6527466
    Abstract: The present invention provides an easily assemble swivel mount for supporting a fixture from a support. This swivel mount is of a design such that no tool or special device is needed to either initially position the fixture at a desired location or to change or re-position the fixture should such be desired. A continuous wire passageway is provided through the swivel mount so that no obstacles need be avoided thereby eliminating the possibility that a wire may become kinked within the swivel mount. Such continuous passageway also makes for easy wire insertion through the swivel mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: David Blier, Viorel Mirica, Laszlo Pallai
  • Patent number: 6513827
    Abstract: The buggy includes a frame with front and rear wheels, a pull and push bar, and front wheel bars and rear wheel bars that support the front and rear wheels and which are connected to the pull and push bar, and a seat accommodated in the frame. The buggy is provided on either side with a coupling device for the rotatable connection of the pull and push bar and the front wheel and rear wheel bars, this coupling device being equipped for the detachable fitting of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Royalty Bugaboo Sarl
    Inventor: Machiel Gerardus Theodorus Marie Barenbrug
  • Patent number: 6508605
    Abstract: A direction changing device for a stroller handle includes two control elements each slidably connected to first elongated holes of one of the lateral tubes of the handle, locking elements slidably connected to second elongated holes of the lateral tubes, moving elements received in the tubes and connected to both the control elements and the locking elements, springs each connected to both a pin and a corresponding one of the locking elements for biasing the same downwards, and front and rear positioning members formed on the front portions and the rear portions of the main frame of the stroller respectively. The tubes are pivoted to the frame from lower ends and connected to a handle part from upper ends. The locking elements can engage the positioning members to lock the handle in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Pao-Hsien Cheng
    Inventor: Ying-Hsiung Cheng
  • Patent number: 6481913
    Abstract: A device is designed to secure the front tube of the handlebar of a foldable scooter and is formed of a shaft rod, two clamping members, a wrenching rod, a lashing collar, and a stop nut. The device is pivotally fastened between the front tube of the handlebar and the folding mechanism of the foldable scooter. The clamping members are actuated by the wrenching rod to hold and push a press member of the shaft rod to press against the front tube, so as to prevent the handlebar of the scooter from swaying at the time when the scooter is in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Melton International L.L.C.
    Inventor: Tsang-Ying Chen
  • Patent number: 6467227
    Abstract: A fastening device for a glass panel on a wall, a building-side substructure, or similar object, such as a building facade, using a clamp fitting that grips the glass panel and a holder that is supported on the clamp fitting that it can move to a limited extent in three dimensions. The invention teaches that the holder has a two-arm connecting bridge that can be fixed in position by means of a center retaining pivot on the clamp fitting whereby, on the outer free ends of the connecting bridge, there are connecting articulations that can be fixed in position for the connection of respective compensating shafts, which are connected on their ends farther away from the connecting bridge by means of respective articulations that can be fixed in position with an adapter for fastening to a wall, a substructure, or similar object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: DORMA GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Hubert Elmer
  • Publication number: 20020131813
    Abstract: A device is designed to secure the front tube of the handlebar of a foldable scooter and is formed of a shaft rod, two clamping members, a wrenching rod, a lashing collar, and a stop nut. The device is pivotally fastened between the front tube of the handlebar and the folding mechanism of the foldable scooter. The clamping members are actuated by the wrenching rod to hold and push a press member of the shaft rod to press against the front tube, so as to prevent the handlebar of the scooter from swaying at the time when the scooter is in motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Tsang-Ying Chen
  • Patent number: 6450726
    Abstract: A swivelling device to adjust the swivelling of two mechanical parts includes a flexible coupling placed between the two mechanical parts which have opposed interior surfaces facing each other. The opposed external surfaces of the swivelling device are contiguous with respective opposed interior surfaces of the two mechanical part and providing a flexible cushion between the two parts. The method for positioning the flexible coupling includes the operations of drilling a hole into one of the mechanical parts and then injecting a flexible material through the hole to form a flexible coupling between the two mechanical parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Thomson-CSF
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Baudu, Dominique Chervin, Boris Vigaud
  • Publication number: 20020061222
    Abstract: A device to adjust the swivelling of two mechanical parts and a method for making this device are disclosed. The device comprises a flexible coupling placed between the two parts and acting as a ball joint between the two parts and means to adjust the distance between the two parts, these means being located at a given distance from the joint. The method for positioning the flexible coupling between the two mechanical parts comprises the following operations: a hole is drilled into one of the mechanical parts and the material of the flexible coupling is injected through the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventors: JEAN-PIERRE BAUDU, DOMINIQUE CHERVIN, BORIS VIGAUD