Remote Actuating Or Initiating Station Patents (Class 49/357)
  • Patent number: 12044053
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive device, comprising a cable which is connected at one end to a cable pulley, an actuator for driving the cable pulley, and a torsion bar which generates a torsional moment, wherein the torsion bar is supported on a higher-level assembly in such a way that it can move between a first and a second state of the torsion bar, wherein the torsion bar applies a torque in a first direction over a first partial movement range, applies a torque in a second direction opposite to the first direction over a second partial movement range, and does not apply torque over a third partial movement range. The present invention also relates to a superordinate hatch arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: Stabilus GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Reif, Jörg Hillen
  • Patent number: 11767650
    Abstract: A traffic control device, for use with a roadway receiving vehicles travelling longitudinally along the roadway, includes a housing mounted transversely across the roadway with an upper supporting surface that supports the vehicles rolling over the housing. A frame comprised of a shaft supporting tire puncturing members thereon is rotatable within the housing between stored and working positions of the tire puncturing members relative to the upper supporting surface of the housing. Offset counterweights are coupled to the frame to bias the tire puncture members towards the working position. An upper stop member on the housing, formed of resilient material, is engaged by the frame in the working position and is adjustable in height to control position of the tire puncturing members in the working position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Inventor: Jonathon R. Mateychuk
  • Patent number: 11668120
    Abstract: A system for managing door operation of a vehicle includes a door system and a doorjamb system configured for the door to close against. The door system includes a door having a handle mechanism, an indicator mechanism coupled to the handle mechanism and actuated by motion of the handle mechanism, and a latch feature configured to be engaged for latching the door closed. The doorjamb system includes a sensor configured to generate a sensor signal indicative of a state of the indicator mechanism, and a latching mechanism configured to secure and release the latch feature of the door. Control circuitry of the vehicle is coupled to the sensor and latching mechanism, and is configured to receive the sensor signal, and control the latching mechanism based on the sensor signal. The control circuitry determines state information for the vehicle and determines whether to secure or release the latch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: Rivian IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Young, Rajinder Pal Singh, Marcus Merideth, Kostandinos Papanikolaou
  • Patent number: 11435747
    Abstract: A system is comprised of a floor processing device, an object located in the environment of the floor processing device, which has a partial object area and a displacement device for automatically displacing the partial object area, a detection device, which is suitable for detecting a presence of the floor processing device in a detection area of the detection device, and a control device for generating a control command for the displacement device as a function of the detection result of the detection device. In order to prevent a collision with the floor processing device given automatic displacement devices of objects, the control command is suitable for deactivating the displacement device, thereby preventing a displacement of the partial object area even if the floor processing device is present in the detection area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Vorwerk & Co. Interholding GmbH
    Inventor: Roman Ortmann
  • Patent number: 11193236
    Abstract: Vapor-permeable, substantially water-impermeable, corrosion-inhibiting composites are disclosed herein. For instance, disclosed herein are composites comprising a first layer comprising a first nonwoven; and a second layer adjacent to and mechanically integrated with the first layer, the second layer comprising a polymer having a melt flow index of about 10 g/10 mins to about 200 g/10 mins, and a corrosion inhibitor, wherein the composite has a moisture vapor transmission rate of from about 25 g/m2/day to about 1000 g/m2/day when measured at about 23° C. and about 50% relative humidity. Also disclosed herein are methods of making and using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: AVINTIV Specialty Materials Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Andrew Hickie
  • Publication number: 20140136021
    Abstract: A pickup truck includes a tailgate that is movable between open and closed positions. A powered latch provides for remote release of the latches of the tailgate. The tailgate is biased from the closed position towards the open position such that release of the latch causes the tailgate to shift automatically from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Charles Gregory Bambenek, Bhupendra A. Patel, David Manuel Rogers, Thomas M. Herline
  • Publication number: 20130326959
    Abstract: A mechanical gate opener is used to activate an opening mechanism for a livestock chute. The gate opener includes a weight, an elevating mechanism for lifting the weight to a set height, and a delay mechanism for extending the time from when the weight is released from the set height to when the weight strikes an actuator for the gate opening mechanism. One embodiment of the gate opener includes a diverter for diverting the released weight to prevent the weight from striking the actuator and initiating the gate opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Tommie Carroll Gipson
  • Patent number: 8587404
    Abstract: A movable barrier system with a moving-barrier imminent motion notification includes a movable barrier and a movable barrier operator connected to control movement of the movable barrier between a first position and a second position. To reduce user dissatisfaction with the moving-barrier imminent motion notification, communications to the movable barrier operator include information to assist the operator in determining whether to operate the moving-barrier imminent motion notification in combination with moving the door or to specifically command that the moving-barrier imminent motion notification operate or not. The communication may include a signal or input separate from and in addition to a typical command signal or input to the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward T. Laird
  • Publication number: 20130291439
    Abstract: A capacitive sensor unit is disposed for contactlessly actuating a vehicle door. The sensor unit has an electrode assembly with at least three electrodes that are disposed in a spaced relationship. The electrodes include a first transmitting electrode, a second transmitting electrode, and a receiving electrode arranged between the two transmitting electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: HOLGER WUERSTLEIN, ANDRE GUNREBEN
  • Publication number: 20130209333
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for opening a reaction vessel having a body forming a volume for liquid, and a lid. In the method at least one reaction vessel is placed on a transport vehicle and the reaction vessel is positioned on the vehicle so that the vessel's rotation about its own axis is prevented. Then, the at least one reaction vessel is transferred on the vehicle and a guide rod, attached to the lid that is attached by a hinge to the reaction vessel, is pushed by the movement of the vehicle against a guide surface that forces the lid to turn on the hinge so that the lid is at least partially opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC OY
    Inventors: Vesa Nuotio, Juhani Siidorov, Sami Kukkonen
  • Publication number: 20130042532
    Abstract: A pneumatic door system and a method of using the same are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a trailer may include a seamless main door and at least one side door. The doors may be configured to be locked shut with a system of pneumatic locks. The main door may be configured to open and close as controlled by pneumatic pressure applied to a door cylinder. The pneumatic system may be configured to be controlled by an interior control box. The pneumatic system may be configured to operate off of pneumatic pressure in an auxiliary air tank, the pressure being protected by a series of one-way check valves. The pneumatic system may also be configured to operate wirelessly using RFID or Bluetooth technology, among other things, to secure the cargo and facilitate ingress and egress to the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel M. Aragon, Peter J. Wachtell, John T. Prehn, Todd J. Lindsey, John C. Cash
  • Patent number: 8375637
    Abstract: A bin lid assembly includes a lid member arranged to span across an opening in the roof of a grain storage bin. The lid member is supported by a hinge which is biased towards a closed position extending forwardly across the bin opening from an open position extending rearwardly. An operating linkage is pivotally connected to the lid member and includes a opening arm which is folded relative to the lid member from a first position extending upwardly in the closed position of the lid member to a second position extending rearwardly in the open position of the lid member to allow the lid member to be opened 180 degrees. The linkage also allows a mechanical advantage to be maintained when pulling the lid open using an actuator tether alongside the bin which is connected at an upper end to the opening arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Bradley Metro Zazula
  • Patent number: 8196362
    Abstract: Storage bin hatches typically have an opening surrounded by a rim and a cover having a flange that fits around the hatch opening rim. The apparatus, for opening and closing a storage bin hatch includes an elongated lift member fixed to a hatch cover and a pivot assembly. The pivot assembly is pivotably mounted to the storage bin roof adjacent to the storage bin hatch. The pivot assembly is moved by a first cable from the ground so that when the cable is pulled, the pivot assembly pivots and contacts the lift member and lifts the hatch cover to a raised position. By means of a second cable, an operator can pull the hatch cover to open the hatch. With a third cable, the operator can pull the hatch cover in the opposite direction to close the hatch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Loyd Edmund Ratts
  • Patent number: 8087336
    Abstract: A system and method for actuating a hatch door. One embodiment includes a vertical launcher system that has a hatch door disposed in a plane at the top of a hold. The hatch door includes a leading edge and a trailing edge at opposite ends of the hatch door. When an actuator arm for maneuvering the hatch door is extended, the leading edge is lifted away from the plane by the actuator arm while the trailing edge remains in the plane and slides across the top of the plane toward the point where the leading edge was first lifted away. Such a sliding hatch mechanism allows for quick opening and closing of a hatch door while providing more efficient use of mechanical energy for breaking ice build up or prevent intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Corey A. Fleischer, Bruce S. Chiu, Kristopher Heick
  • Publication number: 20110078958
    Abstract: A motorized hopper door actuation system for use in conjunction with a hopper vehicle having at least one hopper door for removing product therefrom. The motorized hopper door actuation system includes a motor, mounting mechanism and control mechanism. The motor is operatively attached to the hopper door. The mounting mechanism is operatively attached to the hopper vehicle. The control means is operably attached to the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: SHUR COMPANY
    Inventors: Steven James Knight, James Edward Elsen
  • Publication number: 20090151258
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a child safety barrier (1) may be activated by a foot pedal (6) which can only be operated when an auxiliary lock (8) has been activated. The auxiliary lock (8) is formed by a mechanical unit, which has an electrical receiver (8a) which, when receiving an electrical signal, e.g. an electromagnetic signal from a transmitter (9), can activate the auxiliary lock (8), following which the foot pedal (6) may be activated. The transmitter (9) may be incorporated in a remote control unit of the hand-held type, or it may be mounted on a wall, where an adult can activate the transmitter, e.g. by an elbow. The transmitter may also be a unit which continuously transmits electromagnetic signals which activate the auxiliary lock when they are interrupted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Finn Andersen
  • Publication number: 20090077895
    Abstract: This invention relates to automatic door bottom with a release mechanism for a hinged door which is pivotable to be positioned over a sill when closed, a sealing member having a length corresponding to the length of the channel, the sealing member being housed in the channel of said and being movable vertically downwardly into a sealing position in which the sealing member will contact the sill when the door is closed, alternatively said sealing member may be manually moved upwardly even when the door is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Adi Tshai
  • Publication number: 20080092449
    Abstract: Protective door systems are presented for equipment enclosures in which an inner door is provided to resist outward opening pressures by facing or abutting one or more interior surfaces of an enclosure opening, with an optional outer panel covering the enclosure opening from the outside, where a closure mechanism is operated by an externally rotatable handle to initially back the inner door away from the enclosure front side and then to move the inner door upward at an angle to effectively clear two edges of the opening to allow pivoting of the inner door to an open position extending partially outside the enclosure opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: ROCKWELL AUTOMATION TECHNOLGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph S. Kadziolka, Murray Peter Kingston
  • Publication number: 20040255929
    Abstract: A heating generating appliance including an opening device configured to automatically open doors of the appliance. The opening device functions based on user input or can be controlled automatically via the appliance controls to open and/or close the doors of the appliance as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: David Jon Miller, Robert Samuel Waddell, Brynn Douglas Rogers, Thomas J. Bachinski
  • Patent number: 6363666
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preventing insertion from the outside of instruments that could pivot the control bar situated on the inside of the skylight. The device is constituted by a box and two narrow strips positioned in an offset manner so as to form a baffle preventing any instrument being inserted while leaving a free passage for ventilation air. Spacers serve to stiffen the assembly. A cap protects the control lever for opening the lock of the skylight, and a fork enables the latch existing on the skylight to be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Patrice Kandin
  • Patent number: 6167654
    Abstract: A device for automatically closing a closure installation (such as a window or a door) includes a drive device, a traction mechanism, a spring, an actuating device and a locking device. The closure installation is mounted in a frame supported by a building. The traction mechanism is located between the closure installation and the frame, and is driven by the drive device to close the closure installation. The spring is tensioned when the closure installation is placed in the open position, and supplies the energy to the drive device which is required to close the closure installation. The actuating device is used to initially place the closure installation in the open position. The actuating device tensions the spring when the closure installation is placed in the open position. The locking device is initially released to permit the closure installation to be placed in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Wolf
  • Patent number: 5808430
    Abstract: An electrical control arrangement for a curtain assembly has a reversible electric, preferably DC, drive motor, drive devices for connecting the motor to one or more curtains for movement of the curtains in opening and closing directions in response to rotation of the motor in respective opposite directions, and a control device for the motor. The control device includes first, user-operable, preferably remotely-operable, switch device for selecting opening and closing directions of curtain movement, and second switch device positionable for operation by a curtain upon reaching a limit position of its movement in an opening and/or a closing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Wai Chau Ho
  • Patent number: 5680728
    Abstract: A direct drive power window actuator for remote opening and closing of a pivotal quarter window of an automotive vehicle comprising a reversible motor, a power transmitting gear device operatively connected with the motor at one end and with a rotary shaft at the other end for rotating the rotary shaft, and a linkage for converting the rotational torque of the rotary shaft into an opening-and-closing force for the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis T. Moy
  • Patent number: 5586678
    Abstract: A bulk hopper tank assembly which has a bulk hopper tank containing an opening at the top end thereof wherein a lid assembly selectively covers the opening. The lid assembly includes a lid, a generally vertical arm extending along the exterior side of the bulk hopper tank, and a generally horizontal arm connecting the lid and the vertical arm. A lifter connects to the vertical arm and is moveable between a down position in which the lid covers the opening in the bulk hopper tank and an up position in which the lid is vertically above the opening in the bulk hopper tank. A handle connects to the vertical arm and is moveable to a plurality of positions between a first position in which the lid is in the vertical volume of the opening and a second position in which the lid is outside of the vertical volume of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: TIC United Corp.
    Inventors: Hans J. Rosch, Steven R. Beck
  • Patent number: 5570547
    Abstract: An agricultural grain storage or feed tank including a body with a roof having an upper inlet opening is provided with a roof cap assembly which includes an elongated and vertically extending control rod which is vertically and pivotably movable with respect to the body of the tank whereby a cap connected to the control rod may be selectively moved remotely from the opening by raising the control rod and thereafter swinging the cap relative to the opening. The opening is reinforced by a reinforcing centering ring which is selectively mounted to the exterior of the roof of the tank and which includes a plurality of support rods on which the cap is normally seated so as to create an air passageway into the inlet opening. In the preferred embodiment, the body of the tank is corrugated and is supported by legs having corrugated sections which interfit with the body of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: Long Manufacturing North Carolina, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Webb, Robert B. Batchelor
  • Patent number: 5566506
    Abstract: A grain bin lid opener designed to selectively open and close the lid from ground level. A single cable originates from the ground level on one side of the grain bin, proceeds over the grain bin and through the top part of a galvanized pipe and then extends down the other side. The cable is secured at the top part of the galvanized pipe which is welded to the grain bin lid. To close the lid, the cable is looped over a closing lever arm, located near ground level, which is then lowered therefore closing the lid. To secure the lid the lever arm is locked in a bracket. To open the lid the lever arm is released from the bracket and the cable is pulled from the other side of the grain bin. The grain bin lid opener allows the lid to be actuated from the ground level, thus preventing possible injury to a worker who would otherwise have to climb a tall grain bin to open the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Phillips
  • Patent number: 5533391
    Abstract: An electrical rain sensor to be mounted on the outside of a main frame of an openable window, particularly a skylight, comprising a sensing element with two electrodes mounted opposite one another in an insulating holder, the distance between the electrodes being less than the size of a raindrop. To the electrodes an electric circuit is connected which by detection of a change in an electrical quantity caused by the presence of raindrops, activates a maneuvering device which closes the window. The holder (8) is produced by molding of an electrically insulating thermoplastic, wherein the supply lines to the electrodes (15, 16) as well as a heating element for the drying of the sensor are produced as inserts in the holder by molding of an electrically conductive thermoplastic polymer into excavated recesses and/or grooves in the holder (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: V. Kann Rasmussen Industri A/S
    Inventors: Claus B. Brade, Niels Bartholin
  • Patent number: 5449212
    Abstract: An electrically-controlled tailgate operator for moving a vehicle tailgate between a generally vertical raised position and a generally horizontal lowered position. The tailgate operator includes a ball nut linear actuator received in a housing mounted longitudinally along the side of a vehicle. The actuator includes a rotatable, horizontally-extending externally-threaded worm screw, an internally-threaded ball nut in threaded engagement with the worm screw for linear movement relative to the worm screw, and a sheave attached to the ball nut and around which a flexible cable is routed. A motor is coupled to the worm screw. The flexible cable is attached at one end to the vehicle tailgate, and at its other end to the housing. When the motor is activated to rotate the worm screw in a first direction around its axis, the ball nut moves linearly toward the tailgate and the cable extends outwardly toward the tailgate, thereby moving the tailgate to a generally horizontal lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Inventor: Lee S. Seifert
  • Patent number: 5438801
    Abstract: A quarter window opening/closing apparatus in which a torsion coil spring is provided at a link-connecting portion where a second link is rotatably connected to a first link is provided. When the quarter window is in a state other than a fully closed or fully open state, the torsion coil spring urges the quarter window in its opening direction by means of the second link. Accordingly, the occurrence of rattling of the quarter window is prevented even when the quarter window is in a state other than fully closed or fully open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Asmo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mikiya Ishihara, Takahiro Yamada, Fumihiro Shimizu
  • Patent number: 5369911
    Abstract: Remote control equipment for remotely opening a vehicle door. A manual operated remote control transmitter transmits a signal to a receiver mounted on the vehicle which causes door mounted motor actuators to unlock and unlatch the door after which a prebiased mechanical door opener functions to open the door wide enough to permit ready access to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: Nick Fortunato
  • Patent number: 5325084
    Abstract: The system includes a vestibule and a plurality of emergency exits interconnecting the secure area with the outside environment. The vestibule comprises a pair of security doors and the emergency exits comprise security doors having locking means and means for disabling the locking means in response to any one of several preselected egress corroborating events that are not likely to be associated with adversarial activity. The various preselected events may include non-emergency situations such as a request to leave or disable made by two persons within the secure area, a request to leave or disable made by a single person within the secure area plus security guard affirmation, and a request to leave or disable made by a single person within the secure area plus the expiration of a time delay triggered by the request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: R. E. Timm & Associates
    Inventors: Ronald E. Timm, Glen Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 5321910
    Abstract: Actuator device for a pivotable closure member such as a window or a pivoting vehicle roof, comprises a crank articulated at one end on the closure member and whose other end is connected to a rotatable member secured to one end of a cable arranged to roll up on and unroll from at least a portion of said rotatable member. The other end of the cable is fixed to a motor, for example a linear actuator. The connection between the articulated crank and the rotatable member (3) is effected by a conical pinion (4) in mesh with a toothed sector (5) on the rotatable member (3). The axis of the conical pinion is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the rotatable member (3). The motor means is mounted on a support (12) secured to the rotatable member (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: Societe Corea, Societe Anonyme
    Inventors: Dominique S. Legendre, Gilles J. Troquet
  • Patent number: 5218784
    Abstract: An apparatus for opening and closing a top bin lid from below such that, when in the fully opened position, the lid will not extend above the plane of the opening. The apparatus utilizes an elongated lever arm pivotally mounted on the pivot axis of the bin lid. A flexible linkage, such as a chain extends from below, over the lever arm and is connected to a gravity biased latch system which holds the lid in the closed position until the chain is pulled from below. After the latch is released, further drawing of the chain will pivot the lid and arm about their common pivot axis until the arm is obstructed from further movement by the bin. Continued pulling of the chain will draw the lid toward the lever arm against spring pressure until the lid has been pivoted approximately 180.degree. from its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Grain Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene B. Pollock
  • Patent number: 5203113
    Abstract: A window opener composed of a motor retained in a casing, a damper for vibration isolation suitable interposed between the motor and the casing, a worm and a worm wheel which are concentrically connected to an output shaft of the motor, and pinion which is concentrically projected from the worm wheel, an output gear engaged with the pinion, a shaft projected from an upper surface of the output gear and a link mechanism for transforming a rotational force in one direction of the shaft into an opening force and transforming the rotational force in another direction of the shaft into a closing force of the window; being characterized in that the worm and worm wheel and the output gear are arranged in such a manner as to be superposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Nippon Cable System Inc.
    Inventor: Mikiya Yagi
  • Patent number: 5163574
    Abstract: A pedal trash receptacle intended for use in public places including restaurants, which allows two-handed handling of food trays. The trash receptacle utilizes a push-pull, or Bowden type cable connected between a foot pedal and a pivotally mounted door to cause opening of the door by actuation of the foot pedal. The trash receptacle comprises an upper portion which is hinged to a lower main portion so that the upper portion can be flipped open to permit insertion and removal of trash bags. When the top is closed the trash receptacle permits trash to be deposited through a door mounted and hinged in the upper portion of the trash receptacle. Stepping on the foot pedal causes the door to open inwardly permitting trash to be deposited inside the receptacle. When the foot pedal is released the door is closed by the action of springs. The trash receptacle also permits trash to be deposited by pushing the door open by hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Folarin O. Sosan
  • Patent number: 5067276
    Abstract: A semi-automatic gate may be opened from a vehicle by pulling on a line attached to a counterbalance control mechanism. The counterbalance control mechanism comprises a cylinder having a damper-controlled flow of water arrangement which allows an enclosed quantity of water to shift when the gate is opened and to then slowly return past the damper to effect a subsequent gate closing. Water is also used within the gate support structure to provide an additional shifting of weight when the gate is opened or closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Brandt, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5040331
    Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic remote controlled opening device which may be used to open and close doors, windows or similar closure systems. The opening device includes a receiver to detect control signals generated at a remote location from the device. The control signals are then utilized to effect selective operation of a mechanical system coupled with the closure system for opening and closing thereof. The mechanical system enables smooth and efficient automatic opening and closing, but does not inhibit manual operation of the door or the like. Control circuitry associated with the device enables various functions to be performed for selective operation of the device. The device may also be provided with a stored energy source of power such that it can be retrofit for use with an existing closure system. Auxiliary control of the device enables opening or closing in response to an emergency situation or other circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Albrecht, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Merendino, Fred I. Albrecht
  • Patent number: 5018303
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an automatic door operating system for use in a motor vehicle having a vehicle body and a movable door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Ohi Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Soushichi Koura, Jun Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 5002331
    Abstract: A door closing system includes a foot actuated pedal positioned conveniently near a vehicle door to be actuated, a flexible member having one end coupled to the pedal and a spring and interference fitting for coupling the flexible member to the door such that actuation of the pedal will provide a force to the door tending to close the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Dale J. Frye, Jerry M. DeJong
  • Patent number: 4972629
    Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic remote controlled opening device which may be used to open and close doors, windows or similar closure systems. The opening device includes a receiver to detect control signals generated at a remote location from the device. The control signals are then utilized to effect selective operation of a mechanical system coupled with the closure system for opening and closing thereof. The mechanical system enables smooth and efficient automatic opening and closing, but does not inhibit manual operation of the door or the like. Control circuitry associated with the device enables various functions to be performed for selective operation of the device. The device may also be provided with a stored energy source of power such that it can be retrofit for use with an existing closure system. Auxiliary control of the device enables opening or closing in response to an emergency situation or other circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Assignee: Albrecht, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Merendino, Fred I. Albrecht
  • Patent number: 4920304
    Abstract: An actuator for a vent in a vehicle includes a motor actuated by a dashboard mounted switch. In a first embodiment, a slider is received for reciprocal linear movement along a guide track mounted adjacent the vent. A first end of an actuating arm is pivotally connected to the slider and a second end is pivotally connected to the vent. A drive cable is supported by a pair of pulleys mounted at opposite ends of the guide track. A DC permanent magnet motor is connected for rotating one of the pulleys in opposite directions. A capacitor is selectively connected by a relay for discharge through the motor to actuate the vent. A three position switch has a first position for charging the capacitor in a first polarity, a second position for charging the capacitor to an opposite polarity and a third position for energizing the relay to discharge the capacitor through the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Inventor: Frank P. Antonowitz
  • Patent number: 4918865
    Abstract: A window opener for a remote open-and-close operation of a quater window of an automobile or the like comprises an actuating device, a driving device and pull-cables as a power transmitting member so that freedom of cable-arrangement is widened and large cabin space is remained in an automobile. The actuating device has a pulley, a rotary shaft connected to the pulley, and a link mechanism for converting a rotational torque of the rotary shaft into an opening-and-closing force for a wing member of a window. The pull cables are connected with the pulley so that reciprocal pull-operation through the driving device causes reciprocal rotation of the pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Assignee: Nippon Cable System Inc.
    Inventor: Shoichi Hirai
  • Patent number: 4897961
    Abstract: A releasable mount for window grilles and the like. A wall-mounted portion is attached to a wall near the window and includes a fixed housing with a latch member having an opening therethrough and a trigger pin mounted for movement from a cocked, extended position to a release position. A grille-mounted portion is rigidly attached to the grille and includes a latch pin having a cavity with a catch assembly inserted into the fixed housing and partly through the opening in the latch member. The catch assembly expands to a catch position upon contact of the latch pin with the trigger pin. Then the catch assembly catches on the latch member and prevents the latch pin from being withdrawn from the fixed housing. The trigger pin remains biased in the cocked position, and keeps the catch assembly in its expanded position. However, when the trigger pin is moved to the release position, the catch assembly may retract and enable the latch pin to be withdrawn and separate from the fixed housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1990
    Inventor: Jerry P. Shine
  • Patent number: 4891908
    Abstract: A door operator system includes a rodless fluid cylinder that has a cylinder body and a rodless piston adapted for reciprocation in the cylinder body. A carriage which is adapted for reciprocation externally along the length of the cylinder body is secured to the piston. An arm member connects the cylinder carriage to an associated sliding door. A control circuit is provided for controlling the operation of the fluid cylinder and hence the position of the associated sliding door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Inventor: Anthony G. Aquilina
  • Patent number: 4750295
    Abstract: An apparatus for the opening and closing of a gate which uses an electrically operated motor to open and close the gate. The motor is operated by a plurality of batteries electrically mounted in series. The batteries are to be charged by a solar charging device. When charging, the batteries are connected electrically in parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Inventors: Edward R. Court, Jorge A. Nunez
  • Patent number: 4747244
    Abstract: A device for closing and opening the cover on the top of a grain bin. The closing device includes a cap hinged to the bin and having a linkage connected to the cap; the linkage being operable from a location on the ground adjacent the bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1988
    Inventor: Glenes O. Christianson
  • Patent number: 4744183
    Abstract: A lid opener apparatus is provided for use with a relatively large storage bin, and comprises a handle and structure for mounting and supporting the handle at a convenient height for manipulation by an operator. The mounting and support structure includes a first elongate link which has one end thereof pivotally mounted to the handle and the other end thereof pivotally mounted at a fixed location relative to the bin. A first elongate rod-like member is pivotally mounted to the same end of the link which receives the handle and extends upwardly to an area adjacent the top of the bin. A second rod-like member is pivotally coupled at one end thereof to the lid and extends outwardly to an area adjacent the uppermost end of the first rod-like member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1988
    Assignee: CTB, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph A. Kruger
  • Patent number: 4712104
    Abstract: A remote control system for window blinds including a control unit provided for each of a plurality of blinds which are opened and closed freely, each blind further including rotatable slats. The control unit is provided with a signal receiver, and through the use of a transmitter, which is provided separately, the control unit controls the individual blind as well as slats thereof, and a plurality of control units can be successively actuated so that two or more blinds and the slats thereof can be controlled at the same time from a distance. By means of this remote control system, a centralized control of the blinds can be performed without requiring a special control board, and erroneous operation can be avoided as blind operation is done after the blind number is designated. When the blind operation is completed, the system is automatically reset for the next operation command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Assignee: Kuron Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masahiko Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 4667440
    Abstract: A remotely operated gate opening and closing system including a gate post with two vertically spaced helical slots through the walls of the post, a slideable and rotatable spindle concentrically inside the gate post, two L-shaped pins attached to the spindle and extending outwardly through the slots, a swinging gate with two eye supports pivotally connected to the two L-shaped pins, two spaced lever arms rigidly connected to the swinging gate and having a lug projecting horizontally outwardly toward the gate post, a locking bar selectively manually attachable to lock each lug to its respective L-shaped pin, a vertically reciprocating rod attached to the spindle, and a power drive for moving the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1987
    Inventor: Forbes D. Grace, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4653228
    Abstract: Window operating apparatus includes a housing portion, a support portion, a drive portion, a power supplying portion and a mounting portion. The housing portion includes a base section and a cover member disposed over the base section including a top section and sidewall sections extending downwardly from peripheral edges thereof engageable with the base section. The support portion includes opposed upwardly extending end sections. The drive portion which is supported between the end sections and secured thereto includes a gear train disposed adjacent the top section, the gear train including meshing gear members rotatable in a plane substantially parallel to the top section. An electrical motor affixed below one end of the gear train adjacent the base section includes an output shaft extending upwardly from the motor and engaging one of the gear members in the gear train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Assignee: Win-Trol, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph G. Yuhas, William H. Birmingham