Chains Patents (Class 59/78)
  • Patent number: 11707853
    Abstract: In a linear expansion mechanism, high rigidity is secured in all directions of orthogonal axes without any constraint on installation posture. The linear expansion mechanism includes: a block train made up of a plurality of blocks coupled along a coupling direction; a housing for containing the block train; a mechanism configured to deliver and draw the block train along the coupling direction; and a fixing mechanism configured to fix a relative position of a leading end position of the block train delivered from the housing relative to an entrance/exit position Pe located on the housing at which the block train enters and exits the housing with respect to directions orthogonal to the coupling direction of the block train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kousuke Imasaka, Kuniyasu Matsumoto, Wataru Amemiya, Moriaki Oonishi
  • Patent number: 11401686
    Abstract: A pin for pivotally connecting two components together is received in aligned openings of the two components. One end of the pin has a head of reduced dimension to be received in a correspondingly-shaped opening in one of the components. Axial movement of the pin in the openings is limited by a lock that engages the head of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: ESCO Group LLC
    Inventors: Christopher E. Grewell, Lee A. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 11378136
    Abstract: A cord package supporting device for supporting a cord package wound with a cord, such as for an elastic joint disk for connecting two shaft portions, is disclosed. The cord package includes two opposite arcuate cord regions and two tangential cord regions that connect the arcuate cord regions to each other and extend parallel to each other. In embodiments, the cord package supporting device includes a first redirecting portion and a second redirecting portion, about which in each case one arcuate cord region of the cord package is guided. In embodiments, the two redirecting portions are integrally connected to each other via a web. An elastic joint disk and a method for producing an elastic joint disk are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Vibracoustic SE
    Inventors: Frank Hofhansl, Niklas Müller
  • Patent number: 11332315
    Abstract: A link for a chain for an article conveyor includes first and second link elements formed as coupleable separate parts. The first link element may be configured to support articles, and the second link element may be adapted to support the first link element and to allow the chain to be moved when in use. The link includes a hinging region in the second link element for hinging the link to a further link of the chain. The hinging region may be adapted to the insertion within it of a hinging element for hinging the link to another link of the chain. The link includes confining means provided in the first link element and adapted, when the first and second link elements are coupled, to confine the hinging element within the hinging region, thereby preventing the hinging element to escape from the hinging region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: REXNORD FLATTOP EUROPE S.R.L.
    Inventors: Andrea Andreoli, Antonino Fiore, Davide Calciolari
  • Patent number: 11186438
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support device for a rigid chain (401) composed of links (402) that are connected in pairs by rollers (403). The movement of the rigid chain is guided by an internal housing (406) of a support casing (405). One or more support pins (404) project from one side of the chain, parallel to the axis of the link rollers. Furthermore, a face (411) of the casing extending substantially perpendicularly to the axes of the rollers has a through-groove (412) communicating with the internal housing (406). This groove (412) extends along the entire length of the housing and has dimensions, in a plane perpendicular to the axes of the rollers (403), that are sufficient to allow through only the support pin(s) (404), which pass through the groove (412) and protrude from the support casing (405) by a predetermined length allowing the fastening of one or more functional elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: TOTAL RAFFINAGE CHIMIE
    Inventors: Giuseppe Galassini, Nicolas Gassmann
  • Patent number: 10670113
    Abstract: A robot arm mechanism is capable of preventing a first piece string from colliding with a support column inner wall in the robot arm mechanism having a linear extension and retraction joint. The robot arm mechanism includes a plurality of first pieces that are connected in a string shape and a plurality of second pieces that are connected in a string shape, a feed mechanism section that supports the first and second strings movably forward and backward, a storage section in a square cylinder shape that stores the first pieces and the second pieces, and a guide that guides reciprocating movement of the first pieces between the feed mechanism section and the storage section from outside of the first pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: LIFE ROBOTICS INC.
    Inventors: Woo-Keun Yoon, Hiroaki Matsuda
  • Patent number: 10132385
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of anchor chains, and more particularly an anchor chain (1) comprising a first plurality of links (3) and, at the end of the chain, a second plurality of links (4) comprising at least three successive links (4) in each of which at least one property selected from its bar diameter and the elastic limit of its material is substantially greater than in each of the links (3) of the first plurality, in order to improve the ability of the chain to withstand fatigue by bending of the links (4) in the second plurality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ideol
    Inventors: Thomas Choisnet, Stéphan Marobin
  • Patent number: 9587487
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system comprising a first node disposed within a wellbore, and a logging node configured for movement through the wellbore, wherein the logging node communicates with the first node via a near field communication (NFC) signal. A wellbore servicing method comprising positioning a first node within a wellbore, moving a logging node through the wellbore such that the logging node comes into communication with the first node, wherein the logging node communicates with the first node via a near field communication (NFC) signal, wherein data is transferred from the first node to the logging node via NFC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary William Walton, Matthew Todd Howell, Michael Linley Fripp
  • Patent number: 9464690
    Abstract: Chain links and methods for forming chain links are provided. A method may include inserting a pin into a pin hole defined in a boss insert, and introducing the boss insert to a mold cavity defined in a mold plate of a mold assembly. The method further includes flowing chain link substrate to the mold cavity, and cooling the chain link substrate such that a chain link is formed. The chain link includes a base portion, a platform extending from the base portion, and a rib assembly extending from the platform and including a plurality of ribs and defining a central pocket. The boss insert is disposed in the pocket, and the pin is disposed in the pin hole of the boss insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Wolff Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David H. Wolff, David Vogel
  • Patent number: 9345292
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly system including first and second parts each including a blind recess and at least one third part including a through hole. According to the invention, the assembly system further includes a permanent securing device including a pin mounted in the through hole of the at least one third part, the pin including, at a first end, a first means of locking one of the first and second parts in its blind recess, and a socket whose external wall includes a second means of locking the other of the first and second parts in its blind recess, and whose internal wall is welded to the second end of the pin in order to join the first, second and at least one third parts to each other with no plastic deformation of the first and second parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Comadur S.A.
    Inventors: Alain Geiser, Sylvain Boucard
  • Patent number: 9261167
    Abstract: A rope structure has a plurality of link structures each defining first and second ends and at least one organizer member. Each first end comprises at least first and second bend portions, and each second end comprises at least third and fourth bend portions. The first end of a first one of the plurality of link structures and the second end of a second one of the plurality of link structures engages the at least one organizer member such that the first and second bend portions of the first end of the first one of the plurality of link structures are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth bend portions of the second end of the second one of the plurality of link structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSON ROPE TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventor: Chia-Te Chou
  • Patent number: 9205991
    Abstract: Chain links and methods for forming chain links are provided. A method may include inserting a pin into a pin hole defined in a boss insert, and introducing the boss insert to a mold cavity defined in a mold plate of a mold assembly. The method further includes flowing chain link substrate to the mold cavity, and cooling the chain link substrate such that a chain link is formed. The chain link includes a base portion, a platform extending from the base portion, and a rib assembly extending from the platform and including a plurality of ribs and defining a central pocket. The boss insert is disposed in the pocket, and the pin is disposed in the pin hole of the boss insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Wolff Industries
    Inventors: David H. Wolff, David Vogel
  • Patent number: 9161582
    Abstract: A device enabling the formation of a belt or suspenders through a sequential engagement of a plurality of removably engageable bodies. The bodies are only engageable and disengageable when positioned at an engagement position substantially perpendicular to adjacent bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Anderson
  • Patent number: 8978350
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for attaching an end link (2) of a chain strand (3) made of chain links (4) of a predetermined geometry. The device comprises a retaining device (5) comprising an insertion segment (7) at one end (6) that can be inserted in an opening (8) of the end link, and a retaining segment (5). The retaining segment comprises a cross section (28) on which the end link can be placed in a limited number of retaining positions, preferably only one single retaining position, from the insertion segment (7). The device further comprises a closure element (12) by which the end link can be permanently secured to the retaining device. In order to prevent tilting of the end link on the retaining device during operation, according to the invention the closure element forms a stop (14) by which a motion of the end link out of the retaining segment (10) in the direction of the insertion segment (7) is blocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: RUD, Ketten Rieger & Dietz GmbH u. Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Betzler, Roland Jakubetz
  • Patent number: 8966874
    Abstract: A shackle assembly with a unitary body has a closed geometry with a primary opening therethrough. A first side member has a first side aperture extending transversely therethrough with a first inside surface. A second side member is spaced apart from the first side member and has a second side aperture extending transversely at least partially through the second side member. End portions extend between and connect the first side member and the second side member. The second side aperture is opposite the first side aperture and axially aligned with the first side aperture. A pin has a head portion positioned at least partially within the first side aperture and a tip portion positioned at least partially within the second side aperture. A pin body extending between the head portion and the tip portion along a central longitudinal axis and is sized to pass through the first side aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Ty-Flot, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell A. Moreau, Andre W. Moreau
  • Patent number: 8955300
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present application discloses a linker comprising a linker body having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured with a first slot, wherein the second end is configured with a second slot, wherein the first slot is configured to form a reversible connection with the second slot or a third slot or a protrusion and wherein the linker, the linker body and the slot comprise of material selected from silicone or a silicone composite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Whatino, Inc.
    Inventors: Yung-Cheng Lo, Yung-Fen Lo, Ching-Fu Lo
  • Patent number: 8931251
    Abstract: A metal chain construction that includes a series of interconnected links with each link constructed and arranged in an annular configuration having either a circular or oval cross-sectional area. The link has, on at least one side thereof, a substantially planar indicia surface that is recessed into the cross-sectional area. An indicia in the form of a discernible indicia message is formed on said recessed indicia surface such as by an engraving. The link is of a metal alloy and the link joint is formed of a metal alloy solder mix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: National Chain Company
    Inventor: Steven A. Cipolla
  • Patent number: 8844256
    Abstract: A device for transmitting a force, in particular for carrying a load, including two curved arch segments which lie opposite each other and which are connected to each other by two straight limbs that are equally long is provided. The curved arch segments and the straight limbs are produced continuously from one material at the transition points of the arch segments and limbs. A force application and exertion occurs via two bolt-like structural elements which have an outer contour that is adapted to the corresponding curved arch segments and which are to be arranged within the two arch segments in order to transmit the force. The transition of the curvature at the transition points from the limbs to the arch segments and along the respective arch segments is constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Frank, Peter van Haβelt
  • Patent number: 8820044
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for fixing an end-side of a flyer chain, wherein the fixing can be carried out by a clamping through the exertion of a force on partial sections of an outer circumferential surface of at least one plate-link of at least one end-side link of the flyer chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Rexnord Kette GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Joseph Holschbach, Ralf Steup, Bernhard Bleser, Herbert Rapp, Ulrich Gerlach, Jörg Heuer, Michael Schopp, Jörg Lindemaier
  • Patent number: 8793969
    Abstract: A round steel chain has chain links articulated to one another, wherein the individual chain links each have opposite chain bends, which are connected to one another by chain legs. At least every second chain link is designed as a flat link, wherein the chain legs of the flat link are flattened at the edges in the cross-section of the chain legs and have a leg width greater than the diameter of the chain bends, such that the areas of the chain legs extending beyond the diameter to the leg width form lateral bulges, which extend up to the chain bends or into the chain bends, and chain bends have thickened sections arranged on the longitudinal outer surfaces of the chain bends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Thiele GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Burkhard Hermann Scherf
  • Patent number: 8783006
    Abstract: A chain includes a plurality of sliding members that moves relative to each other. At least one of sliding members is formed of a martensitic stainless steel, and contains, in a superficial layer thereof, elemental substances of carbon and nitrogen at a range from 0.17 to 0.50 mass % in total, while a precipitation amount of carbide and nitride is 0.05 mass % or less in total.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Daido Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Baba
  • Patent number: 8776491
    Abstract: There is provided a lifting engagement chain unit that autonomously erects a pair of engagement chains, ensures engagement accuracy between link plates and improves buckling strength. A plurality of buckling restricting attachment plates is arrayed along an outer surface of the engagement chains in a chain longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Michio Oitaka, Takahisa Ando
  • Patent number: 8763356
    Abstract: A chain, in particular a technical chain, preferably a unidimensionally movable chain (plate link chain), more preferably a bolt chain or roller chain, has at least one or more chain links. The at least one chain link is constructed with pretensioning. A manufacturing method includes the following steps: assembling at least one chain link from at least two link plates with link plate holes and two bolts or sleeves. In the non-assembled state, the link plate is not straight, in particular has a curved form, and/or the link plate and the link plate holes have a hole axis, wherein the hole axis is not right-angled, and/or, in the non-assembled state, the bolt or the sleeve is not straight, in particular has a curved form. The chain is assembled from at least two chain links and at least one chain link is manufactured in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignees: Ketten-Wulf Betriebs GmbH, Aumund Foerdertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Johannes Kremer, Peter Kisters, Christian Kirschniok
  • Patent number: 8756907
    Abstract: A coupling link for connecting two parts together includes link components (which each form a partial link) that are joined together with a removable support. The support and link components are coupled together to withstand high loads and/or adverse wear conditions. The inventive construction is strong, durable, efficient, cost effective and easy to use. Wear caps are provided to facilitate extended usable chain life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: ESCO Corporation
    Inventors: Terry L. Briscoe, Christopher M. Carpenter, Michael Rose, Sean T. Hirtle, Charles G. Ollinger, IV
  • Patent number: 8740196
    Abstract: A linkage comprises a first rounded end providing a complimentary profile configured to mate with an inner radius of a loop element in a first drawbar spring, and a second rounded end opposite the first rounded end. The second rounded end provides a complimentary profile configured to mate with an inner radius of a loop element in a second drawbar spring. The linkage is configured to be positioned between the loop element in the first drawbar spring and the loop element in the second drawbar spring such that the first rounded end is mated with the loop element in the first drawbar spring and the second rounded end is mated with the loop element in the second drawbar spring to mechanically couple the first drawbar spring in series with the second drawbar spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Jay Rodger Elrod
  • Patent number: 8739506
    Abstract: Housing insert for a spacer of a ceramic link for a bracelet, including a housing for receiving a spacer having one end. It includes an external machined portion arranged to cooperate with this housing and an internal machined portion including a substantially cylindrical bearing area, arranged to closely receive this end and having a smaller diameter than that of this end. An equipped link includes such a link and such an insert of this type fixed in this housing. A bracelet including includes a plurality of equipped lateral links into which removably mounted spacers are driven. This bracelet includes intermediate links assembled to pivot freely relative to these spacers or relative to pins pivotably mounted in these equipped links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignees: Montres Rado SA, Comadur S.A.
    Inventors: Sébastien Bolzt, Sylvain Boucard, Christian Verdon, Alain Geiser
  • Patent number: 8707669
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of fabricating a metal link rod (6) that is longitudinally reinforced in its thickness by fiber reinforcement (2), the method comprising the following steps: making a metal blank including at least one longitudinal housing (11, 12) leading into an edge face of the blank; inserting fiber reinforcement (2) in the housing; connecting the fiber reinforcement to the blank by metal diffusion around the fibers of the fiber reinforcement (2); and finishing the blank in order to obtain a link rod (6). The invention also provides a link rod having a metal matrix in which reinforcing fibers are embedded that extend on either side of a longitudinal axis (X) of the link rod, the fibers leading into an edge face of the link rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Messier-Bugatti-Dowty
    Inventors: Richard Masson, Patrick Dunleavy, Jean-Michel Franchet, Gilles Klein
  • Publication number: 20140109701
    Abstract: A link member includes a first pin hole, a second pin hole, a first engaging portion, and a second engaging portion. The second pin hole is an elongated hole extending in a longitudinal direction of a two-way push-pull chain. The pin is movably inserted into the second pin hole and fixed to the first pin hole. With the pin being movably inserted into the second pin hole, adjacent link members are expandable and contractible relative to each other by a length. The length is greater than a length of a portion where the first engaging portion contacts the second engaging portion in a state where the adjacent link members are contracted relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventor: Masayuki ISHIKAWA
  • Patent number: 8695320
    Abstract: A non-back-bending chain having a plurality of links wherein said links include a rounded portion, a right flat portion, a bottom portion, and a left flat portion. The rounded portion allows the chain to bend or coil in one direction. The flat portions, when in contact, prevent the chain from bending in the opposite direction. Therefore, a chain that can be used to both “push” and “pull” is provided. Further, the chain can be used to provide a rigid extension that can be used to support a force even when only supported by one end. The chain can be retracted for storage and bunched or coiled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Zike, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan A. Scolari, George Reiter
  • Patent number: 8689534
    Abstract: A rope structure comprises a plurality of link structures each defining first and second ends. Each link structure is formed of synthetic fibers. Each first end comprises at least first and second bend portions. Each second end comprises at least third and fourth bend portions. The first end of a first one of the plurality of link structures engages the second end of a second one of the plurality of link structures such that the first and second bend portions of the first end of the first one of the plurality of link structures are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the third and fourth bend portions of the second end of the second one of the plurality of link structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Samson Rope Technologies
    Inventor: Chia-Te Chou
  • Patent number: 8661776
    Abstract: A link chain is made of chain links connected by chain joints, a chain joint comprising at least one bearing and a pin guided in a pivotable manner and in contact with this chain joint bearing. At least one bearing surface of the pin or chain joint bearing has a hard material layer applied by a PVD process, formed from a compound including at least two metals and a non-metal, at least C, N or Si being selected as the non-metal and the two metals being selected from Cr, Mo, W, Ti, Cu, Zn, Zr, Ta, Nb, Al, B, V, Hf, whereby the two metals differ from each other and the first metal is present in the hard material layer in a crystal structure that differs from the crystal structure of the second metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: IWIS Motorsysteme GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventors: Gerald Joergensen, Stefan Belmer
  • Patent number: 8640435
    Abstract: Fabrication of fibers using links of nanotubes including slicing a first nanotube rope from a nanotube forest. The method further includes wrapping the first nanotube rope in a first plurality of circuitous turns to create a first link. The method further includes slicing a second nanotube rope from the nanotube forest. The method further includes wrapping the second nanotube rope in a second plurality of circuitous turns to create a second link, wherein the second link is interconnected to the first link in a chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: John R. Hull
  • Patent number: 8631636
    Abstract: A shackle assembly includes a shackle body having two shackle arms extending from a bridge portion which is fixed to the two arms and connects the two arms to each other. A shackle pin can be mounted to the shackle arms and connects the two shackle arms in the mounted state. At least one pocket is formed in at least one of the shackle arms and/or the shackle pin, in which pocket a strain sensing element is received and fixedly attached to the bottom or wall of the pocket for detecting a shackle load acting on the shackle assembly. The pocket is a hole going partially through the shackle arm or going partially through the shackle pin, and the strain sensing element is a strain gauge which is attached to the wall or bottom of the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Tecsis Delta Metrics
    Inventors: Alex Khrakovsky, Robert Turner, Pavel Gvantmakher, Reinhold Ost
  • Patent number: 8607541
    Abstract: A chain includes a plurality of links, each link has a first end having a knob and an opposite second end having a cavity, wherein the cavity is shaped and dimensioned to receive the knob of a mating link. The links are joined together knob-to-cavity to form a chain wherein the links can both axially and transversely rotate. In an embodiment, each link has a neck which receives a collar. In another embodiment, a wire is passed through a tunnel in all the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Victor Vito Cavuoti
  • Patent number: 8601784
    Abstract: Link for a wristwatch, characterized in that it comprises a central core connecting a lower wing and an upper wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: The Swatch Group Management Services AG
    Inventor: Cédric Kaltenrieder
  • Patent number: 8601783
    Abstract: Links in industrial chains are connected by pins in bushings. Internal sealing rings in internal annular grooves near ends of bushings prevent inward movement of debris and outward movement of grease past the grooves. Steel internal sealing rings are expanded further into the grooves upon insertion of the pins through the bushings and the steel rings. The steel rings tightly grip the pins and rotate with the pins. Opposite ends of the bushings extend slightly from inside sidebars. Outer conical nitrile seals have collars placed on extended ends of the bushings and have large radiused ends for contacting inner surfaces of outside sidebars that hold the pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: U.S. Tsubaki, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Pfahl, Jeff Miller, Dick Virgo
  • Publication number: 20130305852
    Abstract: A roller maintaining chain includes an elongate strip having multiple holes separated by separation blocks. Each hole has a hole face perpendicular to the elongate strip. Each separation block has a top separation block and a bottom separation block. Each of the top and bottom separation blocks has an accommodating surface which has a flat surface and an inclined stop surface. A part of each accommodating surface is perpendicular to planes on the axial direction of the elongate strip. The flat surfaces of the top and bottom separation blocks are smoothly connected to each other. The inclined stop surfaces are inclined toward the top direction of the holes to maintain the rollers in the holes. The method for making the roller maintaining chain uses a left mold and a right mold, the two molds are split inclinedly and laterally to obtain the roller maintaining chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Ming-Che HSU
  • Patent number: 8555610
    Abstract: Provided is a method of protecting a drag chain for a lumber mill and a drag chain having a chain guard and a lug guard. The chain guard and lug guard each only require use of a single weld washer for mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Baxley Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Russell Kennedy, Chris Raybon, Pat Conry
  • Patent number: 8549831
    Abstract: Devices and systems for tool-less assembly of cable chains that are capable of being retractably stored. The device comprises a first contact element, a second contact element, and a lengthwise member. The first contact element is adapted for movable contact with a receiving member of a first cable chain segment. The second contact element is adapted for movable contact with a receiving member of a second cable chain segment. The lengthwise member is fixedly attached to the contact elements. When an angle between the first and the second cable chain segments is a first value, the lengthwise member experiences elastic deformation, generating a spring force at each contact element sufficient to pull the receiving member of the first cable chain segment rotatably towards the receiving member of the second cable chain segment, thereby reducing the angle between the first and the second cable chain segments to a second value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: LSI Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Dunham, Alan T. Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20130247537
    Abstract: A steerable multi-linked device. The device includes a first multi-linked mechanism and a second multi-linked mechanism. At least one of the first and second multi-linked mechanisms is steerable and includes a modular link assembly at an end thereof. The modular link assembly includes a base, and a tip removably connected to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Brett Zubiate, Howard M. Choset, Amir Degani, Michael Schwerin
  • Patent number: 8468793
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chain comprising a plurality of first links (100) interconnected with a plurality of adjacent links, the first links comprising polymeric multifilament yarns (110) and having a thickness (Formula (I)), at least at the portion where they interconnect with the adjacent links wherein said adjacent links have a thickness (Formula (II)) at least at the portion where they interconnect with the first links and wherein the ratio (Formula (II)/Formula (I)) is at least 1.2. The invention further relates to the use of the chain for storing, securing, and handling cargo, e.g. in lifting, hauling and rigging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventors: Dietrich D. Wienke, Roelof R. Marissen, Martinus Johannes Nicolaas M. J. N. Jacobs, Christiaan Henri Peter Dirks
  • Patent number: 8402734
    Abstract: A device for recovery of physical objects includes a chain having two ends and a retriever attached to one of the ends. The retriever is configured to locate the object to be recovered and to grasp and retrieve that object once located. The retriever includes transducers that detect acoustic frequencies propagating in a fluid medium. Independent transponders, which can be deployed from the retriever; are provided for deployment in an area to be searched. Each transponder emits a predetermined acoustic frequency that is detectable by the transducers. The transducers signal movement of the recovery device for retrieval of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Nathan Johnnie, Helene B. Anderson, Joseph W. Robicheau, Francis J. O'Brien, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8341931
    Abstract: A lift-driving engagement chain capable of improving buckling strength of a pair of lift-driving engagement chains, by modifying the buckling restricting flat surfaces in order to suppress the force which causes a relative slippage along buckling restricting flat surfaces between hooked inner tooth plates and outer tooth plates that contact each other through the buckling restricting flat surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Takahisa Ando, Michio Oitaka
  • Patent number: 8336286
    Abstract: A motion transmitting drive chain (drive chain) is prevented from buckling by applying a relatively small compressive bias force to one side of the pins around which the chain links rotate. The bias force is applied on the locking projection side of the pins axes of rotation such that the links are urged to rotate in the direction required to lock them against each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Prince Castle LLC
    Inventors: Loren Veltrop, Donald Van Erden, Paulette Van Erden, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8250846
    Abstract: A push-pull chain that can bend in one direction only, and is provided with at least two rollers on each of the driving pins, one of the rollers engages a drive sprocket and the other of said at least two rollers engages a chain guide surface. An actuator for e.g. opening and closing a window that uses this dual-roller push-pull chain. A link driven push-pull chain that can bend in one direction only, with links that is shaped as an engagement surface for engaging a drive sprocket. An actuator for e.g. opening and closing a window that uses the link driven push-pull chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventor: Jens Joerren Soerensen
  • Patent number: 8234852
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a chain link for an anti-skid chain, wherein the chain link is designed as a straight chain link with an essentially oval shape with an upper and a lower side wall. The outer cross-sectional area of the chain link has a half-round design and the inner cross-sectional area has an angular design. At the same time, the present invention pertains to an anti-skid chain with a chain mesh, which has chain links according to the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Pewag Schneeketten GmbH & Co KG
    Inventors: Agyd Pengg, Karl Schmid
  • Patent number: 8220244
    Abstract: In a component for shortening a chain (12), said component being provided with a connector bow (2) that can be hung into a connector body (6) and with a shortening organ (7), a safety bolt, which is simultaneously formed as a retainer pin (3) for the end link (11) of the chain (12) to be shortened, serves to secure the position of the connector bow (2) in the connector body (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: RUD Ketten Rieger & Dietz GmbH u. Co. KG
    Inventor: Reinhard Smetz
  • Publication number: 20120160371
    Abstract: A link for debarking trees comprising at least two linear sides, each linear side having an outer surface, an inner surface and a diameter; and at least two opposing deformed sides, each deformed side having an outer surface, an inner surface, an undeformed diameter, and a deformation having a diameter different than the undeformed diameter; the at least two opposing deformed sides connected to the at least two linear sides through convex corner sections, such that the inner surfaces of the at least two opposing deformed sides and the inner surfaces of the at least two linear sides together form an interior space. Multiple links may be arranged into a chain and the chain may be used in a flailing apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: FUNCTION CHAIN PTY, LTD.
    Inventors: Jinhuan Huangfu, Phillip Morris Dohnt
  • Patent number: 8186141
    Abstract: A method for producing welded round and profile chains of chain links that are connected to each other. The chain links for round and profile chains produced by this method include two chain link partial pieces that are connected to each other by friction welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Technische Universitaet Graz
    Inventors: Horst-Hannes Cerjak, Aegyd Pengg, Franz Fuchs
  • Patent number: 8171714
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chain suitable to moor or anchor boats, to lash cargo in road, rail, water and air transportation or for conveying, hoisting, suspending or lifting applications, said chain comprising a plurality of interconnected links. More in particular the invention relates to a chain suitable for the above stated uses comprising a plurality of interconnected links, at least part of the links comprising polyolefin fibers and in particular ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers. The invention also relates to a method for enhancing the strength of such a chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventors: Dietrich D. Wienke, Christiaan Henri Peter Dirks, Martinus Johannes Nicolaas Jacobs