Vehicle Body Or Frame Straightener Patents (Class 72/705)
  • Patent number: 7338025
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing a roof-resting vehicle includes the steps of leaning one or more buttress stands against a rear fender area of the vehicle, passing a chain under a rear end of the vehicle from one of the buttress stands to another, tightening the slack from the chain by pulling chain-grab end fittings towards the fenders at the vehicle undercarriage, using a ratchet strap, restraining the chain from sliding off the rear end of the vehicle by attaching a ratchet strap to the chain near a trunk lid of the vehicle, and passing the chain up to the vehicle undercarriage in front of a wheel assembly of the vehicle, attaching a ratchet strap at a base of the one or more buttress stands and tightening, and placing wedges in front of the opposite end of the vehicle, such that the vehicle is stabilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 7334449
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for straightening dents and irregularities in wheels including a spindle, a platen mounted on the spindle configured such that the wheel can be mounted on the spindle with the spindle projecting through the central hub hole and at least one actuator device positionable between the spindle and a section of the wheel to be straightened, the actuator exerting a straightening force on the rim of the wheel and a mobile device including the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Donald Neubauer
  • Patent number: 7302824
    Abstract: A system for pushing or punching out deformations in automotive components. The system consists of a support frame, a top rail on a support frame, a hydraulic press that may be suspended at any point along the top rail of a support frame, a mounting surface and a tool head assembly for attaching to the hydraulic press. The system provides a press assembly that is portable and allows quick and easy repair of a damaged automotive component. The system provides the user with increased flexibility to modify the position and alignment of the tool assembly for positioning at the center of the deformation and thereby increasing the accuracy with which a user may restore the original shape of the automotive component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Donald J. Buckler, Randy W. Garmon
  • Patent number: 7287410
    Abstract: An automobile body repair machine incorporating a quill and shaft load shouldering assembly whose quill includes lateral, medial, and oppositely lateral sections; slide stopping set screws extending through the quill sections for impingement upon the quill and shaft combination's shaft; weld seam grasping left and right anchor clamps fixedly attached to the lateral and oppositely lateral quill sections; a pull force transferring cantilevered stem; a selectively lockable and unlockable pivot joint interconnecting the stem and the medial quill section; a pivoting cantilevered foot attached to a distal end of the stem; and a foot extending hydraulic cylinder triangulating between the stem and the foot; the automobile body repairing machine further incorporating a body damage pulling tie attached to a distal end of the cantilevered foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Jerry A. King
  • Patent number: 7269990
    Abstract: A portable frame puller is jointed to increase the number of attachment points for fixing the frame puller relative to a vehicle being repaired and/or to reach difficult to reach pulling points. In one embodiment, the frame puller includes a pivot head pivotally connected to the main beam to easily position a clamp assembly relative to the vehicle to fix the frame puller relative to the vehicle by clamping onto the vehicle, thus eliminating the need for tie downs or anchor pot. In another embodiment, a jointed support post provides flexibility to apply pulling forces to difficult to reach attachment points on the vehicle, and a clamp assembly fixes the frame puller relative to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Michael Espinosa and King's Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Espinosa
  • Patent number: 7254975
    Abstract: Devices for straightening portions of a vehicle, particularly the unibody and/or frame of a vehicle following a collision. A device comprising a clamp which is attachable to a pulling device which exerts a pulling force in a direction P. The clamp comprises jaws which open in the general direction of pulling force P to engage a flange or other portion of a vehicle extending away from the direction of the pulling force P. This aspect is particularly useful for repairing the wheelhouse of a vehicle. Another aspect is a clamp with two openings, preferably in a single set of jaws. One opening may, for example, open proximally, i.e., in the general direction of pulling force P, while the other opening may open in a direction away from pulling force P. Another aspect of the present invention comprises providing a plurality of clamps in a single pulling device wherein the clamps are connectable, via a chain, to a single pulling arm, and where the clamps are independently positionable relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Bradley R. Weschler
  • Patent number: 7216524
    Abstract: A vehicle body repair apparatus comprises a platform with cross member retainers, unibody clamps, at least one pulling assembly, at least one movable cross member, a scissors lift, and a lifting assembly. The lifting assembly comprises an actuator at an angle with respect to the platform, so a toggle action exists that enables the scissors lift to raise the platform from a minimal height position from a floor surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventors: Clarence R. Brewer, Sr., Chad Michael Jarvis
  • Patent number: 7207205
    Abstract: A magnetic dent removal device (18), method and kit comprises a handle assembly (20) used with a burnishing element (24). The handle assembly (20) includes a handle (26), a containment cup (30) and a magnet (22) received within the containment cup (30). A magnet shield (40) is connected to the handle assembly (20), and a cover pad (38) can be attached to the magnet shield (40). A hooking element (64) can be attached to the handle assembly (20) to allow for the attachment of accessory components to aid in dent removal. An amplification bar (56) can be attached to the hooking element (64) to add strength to the magnetic force. A kit (74) for dent removal includes a carrying case (76), at least one handle (26), at least one magnet (22), at least one burnishing element (24) at least one cover pad (38), and at least one magnet shield (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventors: Eric Richard Satterlee, Wayne Tanabe
  • Patent number: 7191634
    Abstract: A unique tool for removing dents from sheet metal that is best accessed or can only be accessed from the same side of the metal surface from which the dent was originally created. The tool has a lower plate and an upper plate. The lower plate has a lower side proximate to a dent in a surface to be repaired and an upper side. The upper plate has a lower side proximate to the upper side of the lower plate and an upper side. The tool has a plurality of pins slidably extending through the lower and upper plates, the pins having heads proximate to said upper side of said upper plate and lower attachment ends adapted for receiving an adhesive. The tool further has a displacing member for selectively displacing the upper plate away from the lower plate so that the upper side of the upper plate will push the heads of the pins upwardly as the upper plate is displaced, causing the lower attachment ends to move upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Cesar A. Borgos, III
  • Patent number: 7181951
    Abstract: In a system and method for removing a dent from an automotive vehicle body surface, first and second suction elements are each formed of a flexible disc, a support disc, and a pull stud attached to the support disc. A releasable lever engagement member is provided at an end of the pull stud. Each flexible disc has a vehicle body facing surface which is continuous without air exits. The first and second suction elements are placed on the vehicle surface, with at least one of the suction elements at the dent. A lever bar is inserted through the releasable lever engagement members at ends of the respective pull studs where it is loosely retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Michael J. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7150176
    Abstract: A vehicle frame attachment apparatus encompasses a vehicle frame and efficiently distributes the holding or pulling forces involved in aligning a vehicle frame. The frame attachment apparatus includes a vise and a containment mechanism that secures the vehicle frame within the vise. In one embodiment, the vise includes an opposable member and a set of grasping digits that conform to bends in the vehicle frame. An alignment device may be connected to the vise to exert a pulling force and thereby align the vehicle frame. The disclosed vehicle frame alignment apparatus is easy to deploy, and reduces the risk of damaging a vehicle or injuring an alignment technician.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Desmond R. Thomas
  • Patent number: 7143628
    Abstract: A vehicle straightening bench having a work platform with an inner track and an outer track. The platform has side edges and end edges with curved corners therebetween. A pulling tower assembly is movably mounted to the inner and outer tracks via a carriage having a generally triangular shaped wheel arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation Inc
    Inventors: Jeffery A. Hess, Daniel R. McClellan, Jeffrey L. Dobbins, Dean L. Mish, Adam J. Koehler
  • Patent number: 7143627
    Abstract: A system for removing dents from metal or other materials comprising (i) a device which includes at least one magnet having a handle detachably held to a portion of the magnet by magnetic attraction and a roller detachably held to a portion of the magnet opposite the handle by the magnetic forces of the magnet; and (ii) a method which includes the steps of attaching the magnet to the handle, placing the roller inside the tubing of a dented instrument, placing the portion of the magnet opposite the handle against the exterior of the instrument, catching or acquiring the roller with the magnet such that the magnet and the roller form a magnetic assembly, wherein the roller is on the interior of the instrument and the magnet is on the exterior of the instrument, and moving, sliding, or rocking the magnetic assembly across the dents until the dents are removed from the metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: James M. Akins
  • Patent number: 7124615
    Abstract: A tool for straightening the frame surrounding a vehicle windshield, window or door opening includes a tool head defining a recess for receiving the pinchweld of the frame and having an outer bearing surface for engaging adjacent frame structure when the recess receives the pinchweld.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Ramsey J. Gallegos
  • Patent number: 7124617
    Abstract: A magnetic dent removal device (18), method and kit comprises a handle assembly (20) used with a burnishing element (24). The handle assembly (20) includes a handle (26), a containment cup (30) and a magnet (22) received within the containment cup (30). A magnet shield (40) is connected to the handle assembly (20), and a cover pad (38) can be attached to the magnet shield (40). A hooking element (64) can be attached to the handle assembly (20) to allow for the attachment of accessory components to aid in dent removal. An amplification bar (56) can be attached to the hooking element (64) to add strength to the magnetic force. A kit (74) for dent removal includes a carrying case (76), at least one handle (26), at least one magnet (22), at least one burnishing element (24) at least one cover pad (38), and at least one magnet shield (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventors: Eric Richard Satterlee, Wayne Tanabe
  • Patent number: 7124620
    Abstract: The object of the invention is an apparatus in the straightening bench of the car body, which straightening bench includes a straightening table and a set of frame beams, attaching elements for attaching the car to the set of frame beams, at least a part of which attaching elements have been attached movably to the set of frame beams for attaching cars of various sizes to the straightening table. The apparatus in accordance with the invention includes a transfer beam to be attached movably to the frame beam of the straightening table, to which transfer beam a part of the attaching elements are attached, locking elements for attaching the transfer beam removably to the frame beam and a transfer device for transferring the transfer beam in regard to the frame beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Autorobot Finland Oy
    Inventor: Olavi Venäläinen
  • Patent number: 7107812
    Abstract: A hydraulic rescue tool (20) that utilizes a hydraulic cylinder (22) having a piston rod (24) that is movably disposed within the housing of the cylinder to provide linear driving means for the rescue tool. A cylinder yoke (32) is rotatably attached to the hydraulic cylinder housing and includes a front handle bar (34) for manipulating the tool. Rotation of the cylinder yoke (32) relative to the cylinder (22) prevents injury to an operator in the event that the tool binds and torques. An implement unit (50), which is either a cutter (54) or a spreader (74), is detachably disposed onto the piston rod (24). Pivotal links (36) connect the unit (50) to the cylinder yoke (32), with the unit used for cutting or spreading metal during a rescue. A plurality of quick release pins (72) attach the implement unit (50) to the piston rod (24) and pivotal links, thus providing a rapid release of the implement unit (50) from the piston rod (24) and links (36) for replacement or repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: Tommy L. Patton, Donald L. Ankerstar
  • Patent number: 7104108
    Abstract: A dent repair system includes a hammer apparatus comprising an elongated base member with proximate and distal ends. An elongated swing member with proximate and distal ends is pivotally mounted on the base member by a hinge assembly mounted on and pivotally connecting the members at their proximate ends. A tip is mounted on the base member distal end and an impact head is mounted on the swing member distal end. The swing member is movable between a splayed position with the impact head spaced from the base member distal end and a closed position with the impact head engaging the base member distal end. A pry bar apparatus includes primary, extension and handle sections. The primary section mounts a head assembly adapted for engaging and straightening a dent. A dent repair method includes the steps of straightening a dent with the hammer apparatus and with the pry bar apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald W. Roche
  • Patent number: 7104107
    Abstract: A system for pushing or punching out deformations in automotive bumpers while removed from the vehicle body. The system consists of a support frame, a top rail on a support frame, a hydraulic press that may be suspended at any point along the top rail of a support frame, a mounting surface and a tool head assembly for attaching to the hydraulic press. The system provides a press assembly that is portable and allows quick and easy repair of a bumper. The system provides the user with increased flexibility to modify the position and alignment of the tool assembly for positioning at the center of the deformation and thereby increasing the accuracy with which a user may restore the original shape of the bumper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventors: Donald J Buckler, Randy W Garmon
  • Patent number: 7076988
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a straightening bench of the car body, which includes a straightening table of a car, to which the car is attached, a straightening beam attached to the straightening table, a pulling element for a straightening pull, which pulling element is possible to be attached to the straightening beam as well as attached to the car body for straightening pull of a car, and a transfer device attached to the straightening beam for moving the pulling element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Autorobot Finland Oy
    Inventor: Olavi Venäläinen
  • Patent number: 7055357
    Abstract: Vehicle repair clamps for grasping curved or non-linear surfaces. One embodiment comprises a hinged clamp comprising at least one jaw formed of a plurality of jaw sections that are hingedly connected and that may be adjusted to grasp surfaces of different angles. The clamp segments may be straight or arcuate. These embodiments facilitate attachment of the hinged jaws to portions of a damaged vehicle which form different angles and/or have various radii of curvature. Vehicle repair clamps comprising jaws with non-linear clamping portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Bradley Weschler
  • Patent number: 7055360
    Abstract: A method of applying a tensile or compressive force to a selected location of a work piece or surface without damaging the work piece or the surface and without leaving adhesive residue thereon includes providing a device including a body member and a force applying member movably connected with the body member, attaching the body member and/or the force applying member to the work piece and/or surface using a double-sided stretch releasing adhesive such that one end of the force applying member is adjacent the selected location, and moving the force applying member toward the work piece or surface to generate a compressive force, or moving the force applying member away from the work piece or surface to generate a tensile force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Michael D. Hamerski, James L. Bries, James F. Pitzen, Ronald C. Johansson
  • Patent number: 7055358
    Abstract: A radius pull clamp for use in pulling vehicle door frames to straighten the same comprising first and second clamp plates which are clamped onto the door frame to assist in the straightening of the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: William J. Meis
  • Patent number: 7040135
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning an associated vehicle door with the cooperating portions of a vehicle body comprising a lever having a part adapted to engage in a latch at the door, which part extends from the lever to an adjustable degree, the lever carrying the protector plate relatively fixedly secured thereto which is adapted to be moved against the door without rotation when said part is moved into engagement with said door, adjustment of the position of the latch-engaging part relative to the rest of the lever being accomplished through manipulation of an element located at a conveniently accessible portion relatively remote from the door being aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: Glen Stuhlmacher, II
  • Patent number: 7017384
    Abstract: A vehicle frame and unibody straightening jig has eight joints, each including a socket for connecting a pulling tower assembly. A spider joint at one end of the jig includes five spaced sockets radiating within a 180° arc. Multiple pulling towers can be installed side-by-side on the same side of a vehicle. The jig also includes lateral support legs or outriggers pivotable about a 90° arc and foldable against the spine to reduce the width of the jig for storage. Clamps are mounted on the outriggers for connecting the jig to a vehicle frame or unibody, The clamps are adjustable along the length of the legs to permit connection of the jig with a wide variety of vehicle frames and unibody structures. The jig also includes a carriage assembly with wheels for easy positioning beneath a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Espinosa
  • Patent number: 6986275
    Abstract: An automotive clamp accessory that can be used with existing prior art clamps to pull on a damaged vehicle's frame. The clamp accessory can be attached to a variety of types of damaged vehicle frames and locations without first being required to remove bolted-on vehicle parts or attached glass in order for the pull clamp to properly access or grab the frame. Once the clamp accessory is attached, straightening is accomplished by pulling on the clamp accessory with an external force to return the frame back to its original shape. In the preferred embodiment, the clamp accessory includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a wall disposed between the first and second ends that forms a “stair-step” configuration. The first end portion having a pair of opposing pivot bores for mounting the prior art pull clamp thereto. The pivot bores allow the pulling clamp to be tightened in selected positions for various straightening applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Steven G. Conner
  • Patent number: 6978652
    Abstract: Tools are described which may be secured to blocking sockets of a vehicle holding system for use with a vehicle frame straightener. Each of the tools is designed to block and hold the frame of a vehicle during the frame straightening procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: William J. Meis
  • Patent number: 6973816
    Abstract: A device for straightening the body and the structures of a damaged vehicle, includes a master cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid, wherein moves a master piston under the action of a rotary member actuated by a motor. A slave cylinder is connected to the master cylinder through a flexible conduit extending from said master cylinder, and is designed to be connected by some means to the body or to the structure to be straightened. The slave cylinder receives a slave piston, driven in translation inside the slave cylinder under the action of the hydraulic fluid, so as to be urged to strike the neighbourhood of the end of said slave cylinder connected to the body or to the structure, by being subjected to a return force tending to bring it back to its initial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Alain Couturier
  • Patent number: 6973817
    Abstract: A multi-directional pull tool has a fist-like cylindrical end section from which a elongated boxed shaped second section extends. The tool is designed to attach to the square or rectangular opening at the end of a damaged frame rail. The tool is attached directly to the sidewalls of the frame rail, allowing for a more direct pull of the infrastructure of the frame rail in the opposite direction in which it was hit, thus allowing a cleaner pull and a setting of the control points of the frame rail back in line. The elongated second section comprises a plurality of openings along the length of the section, through which pull chains, via clamps are connected. In this manner, the damaged frame rail can be pulled in the multitude of directions necessary to return the rail to the proper position without the need to change or reposition the clamps and other pulling equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Romeo Galanti
  • Patent number: 6964186
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for deformation, in particular for restoring deformed bodywork regions, having a pulling device to which an adhesive bolt can be fastened, the adhesive bolt being fastenable by adhesion to the bodywork region to be deformed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: MV Marketing und Vertriebs-GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Strasser, Michael Gabriel
  • Patent number: 6957561
    Abstract: A apparatus for the paint-less dent repair of vehicles, for applying a leverage force between a rigid internal structure and an inside surface of a panel to be straightened, is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongated lever, a first tool head attached to the elongated lever proximate to the distal end, and a second tool head attached to the lever between the proximal end and the first tool head. The tool heads are attached to opposite sides of the lever facing opposing directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Salomon John Contreras
  • Patent number: 6957559
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for straightening of surface sheets of a vehicle, which device comprises supporting beams (1, 2) mounted at a distance from each other on surface sheets of a vehicle, a transverse support (3) placed between the supporting beams, which transverse support is placed at a distance from the surface of a vehicle (4) during a straightening operation, a straightening fastener (5) attached to the support, which can be attached to the surface sheet of a vehicle, as well as a transferring device (6) for moving the straightening fastener with respect to the vehicle for straightening a surface sheet. In the device in accordance with the invention the transferring device (6) has been placed in the supporting rests (1, 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Autorobot Finland Oy
    Inventor: Olavi Venäläinen
  • Patent number: 6954127
    Abstract: An electromagnet assembly for supplying a region of concentrated electromagnetic flux is provided. The assembly includes a flat strip of an electrically conductive metal. The strip has a first and a second opposite planar surfaces at least one of which is covered by a dielectric material. The strip has first and second end portions. The strip is wound in a coil including at least one first loop and one second loop and disposing the second opposite planar surface in the first loop substantially adjacent the first opposite planar surface in the second loop. The coil is disposed about an axis of symmetry configured to concentrate electromagnetic flux at a midpoint on the axis of symmetry. First and second electrical terminals are connected at the first and second end portions, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Frederic P. Berg, David B. Smith
  • Patent number: 6941791
    Abstract: The dash bridge and hook rescue device is a two piece emergency rescue tool utilized in the extraction of accident victims from underneath a dashboard and steering column as the result of an automobile accident where severe injuries are incurred by the victim. The rescue device is used to expedite the lifting and removal of the steering column and dashboard using existing winches, power spreaders or extension ram devices, either manual, air or hydraulic powered, to engage the hook attached below the steering column and lift it from the dash bridge spanning from the hood of the car to the roof of the car, bridging the windshield through which the hook extends, and lifting the steering wheel in a vertical direction off the lap and chest of the victim. Unrestricted access to the victim from the passenger compartment of the vehicle and transfer to emergency transport vehicles for critical care is expedited over other existing emergency extraction device techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventors: Alan Sanders, Shane Campbell
  • Patent number: 6925848
    Abstract: A vehicle straightening bench having a work platform with an inner track and an outer track. The platform has side edges and end edges with curved corners therebetween. A pulling tower assembly is movably mounted to the inner and outer tracks via a carriage having a generally triangular shaped wheel arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery A. Hess, Daniel R. McClellan, Jeffrey L. Dobbins, Dean L. Mish, Adam J. Koehler
  • Patent number: 6923031
    Abstract: A system for removing dents from metal or other materials comprising (i) a device which includes at least one magnet having a handle detachably held to a portion of the magnet by magnetic attraction and a roller detachably held to a portion of the magnet opposite the handle by the magnetic forces of the magnet; and (ii) a method which includes the steps of attaching the magnet to the handle, placing the roller inside the tubing of a dented instrument, placing the portion of the magnet opposite the handle against the exterior of the instrument, catching or acquiring the roller with the magnet such that the magnet and the roller form a magnetic assembly, wherein the roller is on the interior of the instrument and the magnet is on the exterior of the instrument, and moving, sliding, or rocking the magnetic assembly across the dents until the dents are removed from the metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: James M. Akins
  • Patent number: 6874347
    Abstract: A planishing device (10) with a pulling element (11) and lever arms (151.1, 151.2) connected in an articulated manner, with bearing elements (12.1, 12.2) for bearing on a material layer (WS), characterised in that the lever arms (151.1, 151.2) in the region of the end (158.1, 158.2) lying opposite their grip are connected in an articulated manner to a joint member (157) connecting the lever arms (151.1, 151.2) at a location (161) distanced from these ends (158.1, 158.2), are supported in an articulated and movable manner via supports (162.1, 162.2) on a supporting element (16) that is interactively connected to the bearing elements (12.1, 12.2). Pulling element (11) is connected to joint member (157) via a rod (154).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Ralph Meichtry
  • Patent number: 6865923
    Abstract: Frame vehicle clamp adapters which allow a frame of a frame-type vehicle to be connected to a pinch weld-type clamp. One embodiment comprises a first section having an elongated rigid protrusion extending from a base. The elongated rigid protrusion is adapted to be secured to a pinch weld clamp. A second portion of the adapter is provided with a clamp for securing a frame thereto. A preferred embodiment comprises a mechanism for adjusting the height of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Bradley R. Weschler
  • Patent number: 6834526
    Abstract: A hydraulic system comprises a pump having a fluid feed and a fluid release. Hydraulic actuator has an advance port and a retract port. A directional converter is fluidically coupled between the pump and the hydraulic actuator. The converter has a housing having a plurality of fluid passages therethrough. The plurality of fluid passages terminates in a pump outlet port, a pump inlet port, a first actuator port, and a second actuator port. The pump outlet port is coupled to the fluid release of the pump. The pump inlet port is fluidically coupled to the fluid feed of the pump. The first actuator port and second actuator port are respectively coupled to the advance port and the retract port of the actuator. A plurality of valves is disposed within the fluid passages. The plurality of valves has a first position and a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Marx
  • Publication number: 20040255639
    Abstract: A pulling tool equipped with an attachment mechanism is provided to provide tension to pair of pulling tools, and includes a pulling bar formed with multiple attachment ports. Each pulling tool is equipped with a pulling chain or cord that extends between an attachment port on the pulling bar and the pulling tool. The pulling tools may be attached along the length of the wheel well to exert a tension force in two different locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Steve Altman
  • Publication number: 20040237624
    Abstract: A vehicle straightening bench having a work platform with an inner track and an outer track. The platform has side edges and end edges with curved corners therebetween. A pulling tower assembly is movably mounted to the inner and outer tracks via a carriage having a generally triangular shaped wheel arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffery A. Hess, Daniel R. McClellan, Jeffrey L. Dobbins, Dean L. Mish, Adam J. Koehler
  • Patent number: 6820456
    Abstract: A vehicle-straightening bench (20) is utilized to apply pulling forces to a damaged vehicle chassis to restore the damaged chassis to an original configuration. The bench includes a vehicle platform (22) with a carriage track (24) having a plurality of carriage assemblies (100) movably received by the carriage track (24). Each carriage assembly (100) supports a pulling assembly (200) for applying the pulling forces. A trapezoidal carriage body (102) of the carriage assembly (100) rolls in the carriage track (24), and the carriage assembly also includes a tower positioning mechanism (104) to hold the pulling assemblies (200) in place while the carriage body (102) is are rolled on the track (24). The carriage assembly (100) also includes a locking mechanism (106) to lock them in place during a vehicle a pull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel R. McClellan, Richard H. Nagorski, Jeffrey L. Dobbins, Jeffery A. Hess, Charles A. Schulte, Nathan Adams, Robert W. Thomas, Marco Tulio Nossa Reyes
  • Publication number: 20040226340
    Abstract: A clamp for straightening an automobile body or frame which includes two gripping members which permits attaching a pull chain in such a manner that the gripping members may be pulled in any desired direction without repositioning the gripping members. The gripping members are rectangular plates bolted to opposite sides of the automobile body or frame. A clevis may extend above one plate so that a link of the pull chain can be attached by a clevis pin. Alternatively, gripping member may have one or more D-shaped lops extending normal to the plate, while the other gripping member has at least one loop extending from an end of the plate and at least one loop extending laterally from a side of the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Keith A. Dumdei
  • Publication number: 20040200258
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for an elevatable lift platform, having a work platform, a scissor-jack and a locking mechanism, is utilized to elevate a chassis for straightening or other repairs. The scissor-jack is contracted by a power actuator, thereby increasing the scissor-jacks' vertical height and elevating the platform. The locking mechanism is comprised of a herringbone lock arm and a lock actuator assembly. The lock assembly is positioned on the power actuator and comprises a two locks, a pneumatic cylinder for extending and contracting the locks vertically, and a lock retainer bar for restricting the extension of the locks. The locks incrementally move along the lock arm horizontally as the jacks are contracted or extended. The locks engage grooves located between teeth on the lock arm that prevent the jacks from contracting or expanding. The locks can disengage the grooves if the pneumatic cylinder is activated to release the locks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Hess
  • Patent number: 6792790
    Abstract: An arrangement for removing dents from sheet metal contains a lever, which at a support point can be supported on the metal sheet. A handle is fitted to the lever end. To the lever can be connected a tension element, which can be connected to an adapter connected to the metal sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Adolf Wurth GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Olaf Ritter
  • Patent number: 6779376
    Abstract: A vehicle frame straightening apparatus includes a substantially upright post adapted to engage a rail mounted transversely to a series of rails fixed to the floor on which the vehicle rests, and adapted to apply pressure between the floor and outward on a deformity in the frame from under the vehicle by a ram engaged therebetween. A holding assembly for holding the vehicle in position engages the vehicle frame from the outside and engages a second rail mounted transversely to the rails fixed to the floor. Preferably the post includes a substantially upright lower portion and an upper portion pivotally attached thereto in order to extend its height, wherein the lower portion does not exceed the ground clearance of the vehicle. Thus, the post may be placed into position against the deformity from beside the vehicle without requiring an increase in the vehicle's ground clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventor: Scott Allan Linquist
  • Publication number: 20040159141
    Abstract: A dent repair system includes a hammer apparatus comprising an elongated base member with proximate and distal ends. An elongated swing member with proximate and distal ends is pivotally mounted on the base member by a hinge assembly mounted on and pivotally connecting the members at their proximate ends. A tip is mounted on the base member distal end and an impact head is mounted on the swing member distal end. The swing member is movable between a splayed position with the impact head spaced from the base member distal end and a closed position with the impact head engaging the base member distal end. A pry bar apparatus includes primary, extension and handle sections. The primary section mounts a head assembly adapted for engaging and straightening a dent. A dent repair method includes the steps of straightening a dent with the hammer apparatus and with the pry bar apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald W. Roche
  • Publication number: 20040107761
    Abstract: The Wheel Well Straightener of the present invention consists of a curved panel having one or more grasping channels for effectively grasping a segment of a damaged wheel well. The Wheel Well Straightener of the present invention also includes an attachment hole such that a come-along, frame machine, power post, hook and chain, or any other suitable pulling apparatus known in the industry can successfully be attached to provide the tension necessary to reform the dented wheel well. Once tension is applied, the Wheel Well Straightener may be advanced along the pinch-weld of the wheel well to smooth any damaged portions and return them to the original wheel well shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Steven J. Altman
  • Patent number: 6745612
    Abstract: A vehicle clamp assembly has an upper end releasably clampable to a vehicle frame member, and a lower end releasably attachable to a support frame. The assembly is rotatable about a first axis substantially parallel to the support frame and is also rotatable about a second axis substantially perpendicular to both the support frame and the first axis. The assembly's base can thus be levelled with respect to the support frame before the assembly is attached to the support frame. This allows the assembly to be clamped onto a vehicle frame member, irrespective of the frame member's orientation relative to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: 668201 B.C. Ltd
    Inventor: Lon William McIlwraith
  • Publication number: 20040103711
    Abstract: A vehicle clamp assembly has an upper end releasably clampable to a vehicle frame member, and a lower end releasably attachable to a support frame. The assembly is rotatable about a first axis substantially parallel to the support frame and is also rotatable about a second axis substantially perpendicular to both the support frame and the first axis. The assembly's base can thus be levelled with respect to the support frame before the assembly is attached to the support frame. This allows the assembly to be clamped onto a vehicle frame member, irrespective of the frame member's orientation relative to the support frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Lon William McIlwraith