One Piece Patents (Class 59/90)
  • Patent number: 11470924
    Abstract: Implementations of an expandable link are provided. In some implementations, the expandable link comprises a first piece and a second piece moveably connected in an adjustable length configuration. In some implementations, a method of using the expandable link comprises adjusting the expandable link to increase or reduce the length of the expandable link. In some implementations, a method of using the expandable link comprises connecting one or more of the expandable links to form an adjustable portion of a piece of jewelry or to form a piece of adjustable jewelry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Inventor: Sheila Laroussini
  • Patent number: 11284683
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a decorative connector for forming a jewelry item, said decorative connector comprising: a decorative member having oppositely located sections, said decorative member comprising a loop at one of said oppositely located sections, said decorative member comprising a decorative body, said loop having a first end fixedly attached to the body of said decorative member, a second end of said loop removably connected to the body of said decorative member to open said loop, the connections between said loop and said body of said decorative member being substantially hidden from view, a passageway through the other of said oppositely located sections of said decorative member, said passageway enabling connecting said decorative connector to a jewelry item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Inventor: Barbara Bixby
  • Patent number: 10259688
    Abstract: A V-sling (100) for use in winching a vehicle includes a master linking device (150) and at least two longitudinally extending flaccid leg members (114) coupled on a first end to the master linking device (150). The opposing second end of the flaccid leg members (114) are respectively coupled to a plurality of hooks (116, 116a). The master linking device (150) includes having a load coupling linkage (152) and a hook positioning adapter (154). The load coupling linkage (152) defines a first plane and the hook positioning adapter (154) is disposed in a second plane. The second plane is transverse to the first plane for positioning a winch hook (62) engaged therewith in a plane corresponding to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: Mumser, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick R. Dahlin, John T. Pedersen, Palmer P. Kauffman
  • Patent number: 9869072
    Abstract: A method for maintaining a chain or chain link comprises inspecting the chain or chain link for signs of wear without using tools and changing the orientation of the chain or chain link or replacing the chain or chain link if signs of wear are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Robert Stolz
  • Patent number: 8955301
    Abstract: An improved D-ring apparatus is provided that comprises a first arm and a second arm, a first arcuate member and a second arcuate member, and a connecting member. The first arm and second arm are substantially parallel to each other. The first arcuate member and the second arcuate member are attached to the first and second arms so that the first and second members are located at opposite ends of the first and second arms and form a continuous apparatus. A connecting member is attached to the first and second arm approximately mid-way between the first and second arcuate members, thereby forming a first aperture and a second aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Jarrod Segura
  • Publication number: 20140250856
    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: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Samson Rope Technologies
    Inventor: Chia-Te Chou
  • Patent number: 8813468
    Abstract: A chain has alternating vertical and horizontal chain links and with each link having an oval profile. The vertical links having an end web supporting surface formed on its inside that engages with a complementary bearing surface on the end web of adjacent horizontal link. The supporting surfaces and the bearing surfaces of all end webs are widened beyond two lateral surfaces of the respective end web, and supporting surfaces and bearing surfaces associated with one another are formed in each case as complementary cylindrical surfaces extending between longitudinal limbs. A method for producing such, closed profile chain links are hooked into open profile chain links and then the latter are closed by welding. And wherein, all supporting surfaces and bearing surfaces associated with one another are formed in each case as cylindrical surfaces that complement one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Pewag Austria GmbH
    Inventors: Aegyd Pengg, Franz Fuchs
  • 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: 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
  • Publication number: 20130161968
    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: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Frank, Peter van Hasselt
  • Patent number: 8418434
    Abstract: A fashion accessory featuring a plurality of units connected together to form a continuous chain having a first end and a second end. The first end and second end are connected together via a locking means. Each unit is a loop. The units each occupy a folded configuration. In the folded configuration, the unit is folded in half to form a first top arc and a second top arc that are positioned next to each other, and a first bottom hook and a second bottom hook that are positioned across from each other. Adjacent units are fed through both bottom hooks and subsequently moved to occupy the folded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventors: Jack Carruth, Danielle Carruth
  • 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: 7950213
    Abstract: A link belt for use as a conveyor belt or power transmission belt is provided. The belt is formed of a plurality of links forming a series in successive overlapping relation. The upper surface of each belt link includes an electrically conductive layer. Additionally, the lower surface of each belt link may have an electrically conductive layer. The conductive layer or layers provide an electrical path along the belt to impede the build-up of static electricity as the belt is run during use. A method for producing the conveyor assembly is also provided. A plurality of layers of reinforcing material are arranged in overlapping relation. A binding material such as thermoset urethane is deposited on the reinforcing material to bind the reinforcing materials together, thereby forming a composite material. An electrically conductive layer is deposited on the composite material, forming a conductive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Fenner U.S., Inc.
    Inventor: Jeremy M. Bigler
  • Publication number: 20110088367
    Abstract: A link chain comprises a chain link including two shank portions and two arc portions connecting the two shank portions. The two shank portions and the two arc portions define an interior space of the first chain link; and a dividing element extends inwardly from an inside surface of one of the two shank portions and extends inwardly from the inside surface of the other shank portion. The dividing element divides the interior space into two movement spaces, and the dividing element has a centerline, and the centerline is not a straight line perpendicular to the shank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: JOY MM DELAWARE, INC.
    Inventors: Gordon Powell, Craig Bowkett
  • Patent number: 7845155
    Abstract: The invention relates to a side wall segment for a line guiding device consisting of links connected to each other in pivoting fashion, each of which displays two opposite side parts that are connected to the immediately adjacent side parts in a manner permitting pivoting in a pivoting plane, and display stops for limiting the pivoting angle, where multiple side parts connected to each other form the side wall segment. The invention furthermore relates to a line guiding device with a side wall segment, and a method for manufacturing the side wall segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Igus GmbH
    Inventor: Thilo-Alexander Jaeker
  • Publication number: 20100269479
    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: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicants: PEWAG AUSTRIA GMBH, TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET GRAZ
    Inventors: Horst-Hannes Cerjak, Aegyd Pengg, Franz Fuchs
  • Publication number: 20100257835
    Abstract: Chain link (1) comprising two side limbs (3,4) at both ends joint by curved end portions (5,6). The chain Link comprises at least one endless band (7) of fiber material wound along the perimeter of the chain link. The fiber material follows the longitudinal direction of the limbs and the curvature of the end-portions. In a chain made of interlocking chain links of this type, all tensile loads are absorbed by the fiber material, whereas the bearing load due to interlink contact, plus the link shear and bonding stresses near the contact points are absorbed by the end portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Oscar de Vries
  • Publication number: 20100212782
    Abstract: A linkage element for a flail chain comprising more than two shank portions and more than two angled portions connecting the shank portions. The shank portions and angled portions define an interior space of the linkage element. A flail chain comprising at least one such linkage element forms a part of a flailing apparatus used to debark trees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: FUNCTION CHAIN PTY, LTD
    Inventors: Jinhuan Huangfu, Phillip Morris Dohnt
  • Patent number: 7621114
    Abstract: A link belt for use as a conveyor belt or power transmission belt is provided. The belt is formed of a plurality of links forming a series in successive overlapping relation. The upper surface of each belt link includes an electrically conductive layer. Additionally, the lower surface of each belt link may have an electrically conductive layer. The conductive layer or layers provide an electrical path along the belt to impede the build-up of static electricity as the belt is run during use. Further a method for producing the conveyor is provided. A plurality of layers of reinforcing material is arranged in overlapping relation. A binding material such as a thermoset urethane is deposited on the composite material, forming a conductive layer. The combined conductive layer and composite material are cured so that the conductive layer permanently bonds to the composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Fenner U.S., Inc.
    Inventor: Jeremy M. Bigler
  • Publication number: 20090151710
    Abstract: A link for a toy ammunition chain made up of a plurality of links hinged together side-by-side in articulated fashion includes a cylindrical body adapted to receive a soft projectile. A first hinge component extends laterally from the body and has a pair of hinge pins. A second hinge component extends laterally from the body at a position opposite the first hinge component and has a pair of recesses each for pivotally receiving a hinge pin of an adjacent link in the chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7065952
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a chain where, upon the stressing of the chain, the links automatically arrange themselves with respect to one another in terms of their position in the chain, preventing any undesired link. A link can be developed in the form, in top view, of a drop or in the form of a keyhole. The described chain is not only suitable for application in lashing loads, but also for use with the manipulation of all accessory chain parts, in which the placement of a link is required, for example shortening hooks, shortening straps or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: J.D. Theile GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rainer Benecke
  • Patent number: 7036338
    Abstract: A string of beads with deformable connecting pieces which extend between each pair of adjacent beads and which are secured to the beads, wherein the connecting pieces are plastics threads or flexible wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: D. Swarovski & Co.
    Inventors: Bernhard Hofer, Thomas Brunner
  • Patent number: 6895739
    Abstract: A chain comprises links formed from bar stock having a specific cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, which is a chain of 16 mm size, the cross-section comprises four convex arcuate sides (10a), (10b), (10c) and (10d), each of which has a radius of curvature at least 10% greater than the chain size (i.e. at least 10% greater than 8 mm) and preferably at least 15% greater than the chain size. In this way, a chain is produced which has the profile which is similar to the profile attained by the chain after a significant period of wear, involving a significant increase in the surface-to-surface contact between adjacent links, reducing the effective wear rate, and reducing the rate of effective lengthening of the chain due to wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Parsons Chain Company Limited
    Inventors: Roger Dudley, Lakbir Ghaman
  • Publication number: 20040244354
    Abstract: According to the invention, the resistance of the links of a D-profile chain may be increased, whereby the transitions between the flanks (2, 3) and the outer planar bearing surfaces of the links comprise roundings of radius r, which is 0.2 to 0.4 times the value of the separation (A) between the flanks of the chain links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Rolf Sinz, Hans Dalferth, Uwe Wistuba, Heribert Herzog
  • Patent number: 6176073
    Abstract: A coupling link (1) comprises a unitary body having a first main limb (2), a second main limb (3), and a third limb (4) which forms an open loop (6), one end of which extends between the first and second main limbs. Loading of ropes, slings or protection onto the coupling limnk (1) is simply a matter of temporarily deforming the rope or device and looping it over the third limb (4). The required unloading action is too complex for it to happen accidently. The three dimensional topology of the coupling link (1) eliminates the requirement for a spring biased gate and is therefore inherently safer than a conventional karabiner. In a preferred example, the first and second main limbs are joined to form a closed loop (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas Adam Shine
  • Patent number: 5956936
    Abstract: An elongated chain link comprising a pair of opposing U-shaped end portions connected by a pair of parallel leg portions. The leg portions are connected to each other by a pair of crosswise tie-bars situated toward the end portions approximately equally offset from the cross-axial centerline of the link. Additional crosswise tie-bars may be added to prevent the legs of the link from collapsing together when a large side-load is applied to the link. The leg portions are substantially square in cross section, while the end portions comprise an inner portion having an arcuate inner surface and an outer portion being substantially rectangular in cross-section. The chain link is preferably made of a high-strength cast alloy steel and is especially well-suited for use in dragline drag and hoist chains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Columbia Steel Casting Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Garrick J. Ianello, Bruce C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5638879
    Abstract: Flail apparatus for debarking/delimbing wood products traveling through a debarking station wherein at least one of the flails comprises an axially extending member having axially rotatable chain supporting elements with an array of flexible flailing chains. At least one of the flailing chains incorporates a first, radially extending link, received on one of the elements, which is not radially removable from the element. The flailing chain further incorporates a link structure configured to be radially non-removably attached to the first link. The first link and link structure are configured to permit the link structure to be removable from the first link and a replacement to be received thereon when the link structure is positioned angularly to the said radial direction of extent of the first link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Wood Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Milan W. Robison, Michael J. Cook
  • Patent number: 5535796
    Abstract: A flail chain connector is provided which may be applied to an existing wood debarking apparatus or machinery for cutting vegetation. The connector is provided with integral fasteners for removable attachment of a length of flail chain to a powered rotary shaft, The connector may be removably engaged with the flail chain by moving a rink in the flail chain and one integral fastener to a first relative position and thereafter moving the link and fastener into a second relative position. The connector may be disengaged from the flail chain by relative movement of the link and fastener from the second position to the first position, and finally to the disengaged position. The connector may be removably engaged to the shaft by a second fastener through relative movements to a first and second relative positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: Columbus McKinnon Limited
    Inventors: Robert P. Line, Bryan Naylor
  • Patent number: 5341634
    Abstract: An interlocking link chain for use in jewelry and other decorative items. The interlocking links can be assembled and disassembled by the wearer without special tools and without an unusual degree of dexterity. The wearer can assemble a chain of any length for use as a bracelet, a necklace, a belt, or other decorative items. Each link has a tab portion and a slot portion. Each link may also have a body portion which expresses an artistic or decorative motif. In some embodiments, the tab and the slot may be made an integral part of the decorative motif. The links are arranged in a linear chain so that the tab portion of each link interlocks with the slot portion of the adjacent link. The links are made in a generally planar configuration that lends itself to low cost manufacturing methods, such as sheet metal forming techniques or injection molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: Christian L. Straight
  • Patent number: 4882901
    Abstract: A transmission or conveyor chain composed of a plurality of interconnected identical links which are attachable and detachable without need for pivot pins or other separate connecting hardware. Each link is preferably molded as a unitary structure of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Assignee: The Laitram Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Lapeyre
  • Patent number: 4850768
    Abstract: An improved geometry for links used in a tiedown chain adapted for attachment to a widely used style of a chain tensioning and securing device. The links are nonreversible, and are longitudinally nonuniform to prevent inadvertent reversed insertion of the chain in the anchoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Breeze Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Huber
  • Patent number: 4815270
    Abstract: A transmission or conveyor chain composed of a plurality of interconnected identical links which are attachable and detachable without need for pivot pins or other separate connecting hardware. Each link is preferably molded as a unitary structure of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: James M. Lapeyre
  • Patent number: 4815271
    Abstract: A transmission or conveyor chain composed of a plurality of interconnected identical links which are attachable and detachable without need for pivot pins or other separate connecting hardware. Each link is preferably molded as a unitary structure of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Assignee: The Laitram Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Lapeyre
  • Patent number: 4770008
    Abstract: A plastic watchband made of individual links, having greater variety in design and secureness of fit is provided. The plastic watch band is joined of a plurality of separate links, each link having an engagement projection on one platform for engaging an enjoining link through an engagement opening on another platform of an adjacent link. A flexible intermediate member is provided between the platforms. The intermediate region is angled relative to the platforms so that the engagement opening is offset relative to the engagement projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: Hattori Seiko Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Junichi Yamaura
  • Patent number: 4625508
    Abstract: A bracelet comprises a plurality of interengaging pivotally-connected flat links. Each link has an elliptical contour and a central diamond-shaped opening, a first channel in the upper face and a second channel in the lower face, the channels crossing each other so that the sides of the channels coincide with the pairs of opposed edges of the opening. One end of the first channel has a slot extending from the edge to the opening for the passage of another link during assembly. This other link is turned through 90.degree. to lie in the same plane after passing through the slot and the links are pivotally connected by pivot pins which pass through apexes of the diamond-shaped opening lying on the center line of the bracelet and are received in holes extending within the thickness of the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Assignee: Omega SA
    Inventor: Fernando Fontana
  • Patent number: 4571934
    Abstract: In a chain with chain links of round material, the chain links have, in the region of their contact points, supporting arcs (7,8) with a supporting arc angle .alpha. of 180.degree. and a radius of curvature R.sub.s of 0.5 to 0.52 d, d being the diameter of the round material. On the side of the unwelded leg (3) of the chain link, the supporting arcs (7,8) are connected by a boundary line (9) of the clear inner space (6) of the chain link, which boundary line has an arcuate indentation (11), while the supporting arcs on the side of the welded leg (4) of the chain link are connected by a substantially straight boundary line. The greatest inner width b.sub.1max of the chain link is at most equal to 1.15 times the diameter d of the round material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Assignee: RUD-Kettenfabrik Rieger & Dietz GmbH u. Co.
    Inventors: Werner Rieger, Hans H. Dalferth, Franz Eberhardt
  • Patent number: 4497169
    Abstract: An elongate main link 2 for a chain or cable sling shaped as a pair of generally semi-circular crown portions 4 connected by parallel-extending side portions 6 has the crown portions 4 formed with inner and outer circumferentially extending flanges 8 and 10 connected by webs 12 and the side portions 6 formed with inner flanges 14 joined to outwardly extending webs 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1985
    Assignee: Parsons Controls Limited
    Inventor: Michael J. Millington
  • Patent number: 4493354
    Abstract: A tire chain comprising two-spaced parallel side chains, a plurality of cross chains joining the side chains at spaced intervals, a plurality of spaced junction links in each side chain, wherein each junction link has areas of reduced thickness and a hook element on each end of each cross chain for connecting to one of the junction links. Each hook element consists of a bight and two-spaced hooks which are transverse to the plane of the bight having free ends which overlie the bight and which are spaced from the bight a distance which is less than the thickness of the junction link and greater than the thickness of the areas of reduced thickness to permit the entry of the junction link into the hooks of the hook element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1985
    Inventor: Henry G. St. Pierre
  • Patent number: 4487013
    Abstract: A chain link, comprising a rod of substantially circular cross-section formed into a generally Omega shape. The link includes a transverse bight portion, a pair of side portions offset below the bight portion, a pair of curved leg portions, and a pair of foot portions splaying transversely outward from the ends of the leg portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Assignee: Agri-Chain Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gail G. Worsley, Thomas D. Woodward
  • Patent number: 4473365
    Abstract: A transmission or conveyor chain composed of a plurality of interconnected identical links which are attachable and detachable without need for pivot pins or other separate connecting hardware. Each link is preferably molded as a unitary structure of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1984
    Inventor: James M. Lapeyre
  • Patent number: 4466238
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a link band, in particular a watch wrist band, a bracelet or the like which includes a plurality of links defined by opposite longitudinal edges, opposite transverse edges, and opposite upper and lower surfaces; adjacent links being articulately interconnected by projections received in recesses, the connection between an end of a projection and an associated recess having an axis of rotation located contiguous adjacent longitudinal edges and upper surfaces of adjacent links, and the articulating connections being such as to absorb longitudinal forces imparted to the link band when in use and to also lock adjacent links together against unlocking movement of the links perpendicular to a longitudinal plane of the link band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1984
    Assignees: Tesch A.G., Zwyro A.G.
    Inventor: Bernhard Tesch
  • Patent number: 4353203
    Abstract: A quick-coupling link to be utilized in conjunction with an identical link has a slot in one of the longitudinal side portions of the link. A tab extends from the opposite longitudinal side portion to adjacent the slot. The tab spans the width of the slot. When a pair of identical links are joined, the tabs prevent the links from accidentally being uncoupled as the slots cannot be brought into disengaging alignment without bending the flexible tab away from the entry to the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1982
    Assignee: Sea Trec Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventor: John G. D. Lotoski
  • Patent number: 4198814
    Abstract: A chain of the trolley conveyor type has T-headed pins and links with slots at each chain joint for assembly and disassembly wherever desired. The slots of the center link are slightly restricted to prevent disassembly when not desired, as in handling the chain. Also, U-shaped center link bushings in which the pins are turnable and with which the pins may pivot for chain side-flexing provide a restriction to assembly and disassembly and particularly the latter so that unintended disassembly is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1980
    Assignee: Rexnord Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph R. Schoenick
  • Patent number: 4134255
    Abstract: A chain particularly useful for draglines in various type strip mining operations is disclosed. The chain is made up of individual, separately assembled links of generally a U-shape having spaced pin lugs at one end. The lugs have aligned pin eyes for holding a pin between them, which is received generally flush with the outside surfaces of the lugs. To prevent pin rotation and to prevent oblong wear in the pin eyes, the pin and the eyes have a flat surface on the side toward the open end of the U-shaped link. With the pin installed in the eyes, a roll pin is press fit through one lug and through that end of the pin to retain the link pin in place. Openings in the lug are oblong shaped, so that some forward and backward movement of the link pin is permitted and the roll pin is never put in a shear situation. The link units are assembled at 90.degree. to one another, with a pin of one link passing through the next link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1977
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1979
    Assignee: Columbia Steel Casting Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert T. McBain, Bruce C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4110971
    Abstract: A link chain, particularly for use as an anchor chain, comprises a plurality of links joined together in sequence, each link including a closed member comprising a pair of facing U-shaped portions, the base of the U at each end of the member having a portion of its inside surface of part cylindrical form, the cylindrical axes of said portions being arranged substantially transversely with one convex and the other concave so that the part cylindrical convex surface of one end of one link mates with one part cylindrical concave surface at the other end of a preceding link when the chain is straight under tension, and enables the chain to withstand greater loads, the U-ends being shaped to permit relative pivoting of the links about an axis substantially transverse to the plane of the link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1977
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1978
    Inventor: Peter Bruce
  • Patent number: 4060978
    Abstract: A chain particularly useful for draglines in various type strip mining operations is disclosed. The chain is made up of individual, separately assembled links of generally a U-shape having spaced pin lugs at one end. The lugs have aligned pin eyes for holding a pin between them, which is received generally flush with the outside surfaces of the lugs. To prevent pin rotation and to prevent oblong wear in the pin eyes, the pin and the eyes have a flat surface on the side toward the open end of the U-shaped link. With the pin installed in the eyes, a keeper is welded onto the flat surface of the pin, extending between the two lugs to retain the pin in place. The units are assembled at 90.degree. to one another, with a pin of one link passing through the next link. The body of the link may be of a more wear-resistant material than the pin so that the easily replaceable pin wears out first.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1977
    Assignee: Columbia Steel Casting Co. Inc.
    Inventors: Robert T. McBain, Bruce C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4056928
    Abstract: An ever open link-chain, i.e. a link-chain having links which are readily to be mounted or dismounted manually without deformation but cannot get detached of themselves without manual intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1976
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1977
    Inventor: Robert de Vries
  • Patent number: 4050323
    Abstract: Industrial conveyor chains of pintle-connected types featuring stub journals removably interengageable with socket bearings through access leads which provide increased bearing surface area and shear strength in the pivoted connections relieving the connecting pins of all or a major role in the bearing and load carrying functions of the link couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1977
    Inventor: Thomas I'Anson
  • Patent number: 4030287
    Abstract: An articulated bracelet comprises a chain of visible tubular links of oval section, adjacent pairs of which are connected by joining links hookably engaging in rectangular openings in the tubular links. Each adjacent pair of joining links are retained by mutual coaction of complementary hook-like end parts in a hollow element, whereby links can be added or removed by hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1977
    Inventor: Roland Magnin
  • Patent number: RE48995
    Abstract: A method for maintaining a chain or chain link comprises inspecting the chain or chain link for signs of wear without using tools and changing the orientation of the chain or chain link or replacing the chain or chain link if signs of wear are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Robert Stolz