Detents Patents (Class 74/527)
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Publication number: 20090139366Abstract: A slide plate and a rack guide for supporting a rack bar in a casing of a rack and pinion type steering device are provided. The slide plate can be mounted on a rack guide base body while being restricted to be in a regular state with respect to a recessed portion of the rack guide base body. The rack guide is constituted by the slide plate and the rack guide base body on which the slide plate is mounted. The slide plate is constituted by a main body portion receiving the rack bar, and restricting portions on both sides of the main body portion in a moving direction of the rack bar, which restricting portions are in contact with both flanks of the rack guide base body.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2008Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: DAIDO METAL COMPANY LTD.Inventor: Hiroichi MATSUHISA
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Publication number: 20090107283Abstract: The steering column assembly includes: an upper clamp 7; a distance bracket 8 fixed to an outer tube 4; a clamp bolt 9 including a shank 9b inserted in tilt long holes formed in the upper clamp 7 and telescopic long holes formed in the distance bracket 8; an operation lever 10 configured to rotate integrally with the bolt 9; a cam body 11 configured of an eccentric cam 41 and a ring 42, the eccentric cam 41 being provided on the shank 9b, the radial dimension of the eccentric cam 41 gradually changing in its circumferential direction, and the ring 42 rotatably fitted on the outer periphery of the eccentric cam 41. The cam body 11 rotates and is pressed against an inner tube 5 to lock the inner tube 5 to an outer tube 4.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: FUJI KIKO CO., LTD.Inventor: Yota Uesaka
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Patent number: 7517181Abstract: A track fitting used to secure a covering to a track extending along an item includes a body and a plunger. The body of the track fitting has at least one foot, adapted to be received in one of a series of openings defined by the track, and the body is also adapted to receive and secure a portion of the covering. The plunger of the track fitting is placed adjacent to and is vertically moveable with respect to the body. The plunger generally moves between a first position that allows movement of the track fitting along the track and a second position in which the plunger engages one of the openings defined by the track, preventing further movement of the track fitting along the track.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: J3, LLCInventors: Jeffrey Dunaway, Jeffrey LaMaster, Jennifer Robbins
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Patent number: 7506562Abstract: A ratchet assembly includes a threaded rod and a support collar that defines a bore. A portion of the threaded rod is disposed in the axial bore of the support collar. A ratchet pawl is pivotable carried by the support collar between locked and unlocked positions. The ratchet pawl has at least one tooth that threadably engages the threaded rod when the ratchet pawl is in the locked position to allow the threaded rod to threadably rotate with respect to the support collar for fine position adjustments. The ratchet pawl automatically pivots to the unlocked position when the threaded rod is forced in a direction from the first end toward the second end to allow for gross position adjustments.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Randolph Tool Company, Inc.Inventors: Patrick L. Franze, Donald L. Franze
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Publication number: 20090049948Abstract: A device for artificially restoring an opposing force for a device for remotely controlling an aircraft control surface, the device comprising: an actuator member (1) mounted to pivot about an axis (2) and entrain a rotary shaft (3); a stationary finger (8) parallel to said shaft (3) and supported at a radial distance from the shaft; a moving finger (5) secured to the shaft and supported at the same radial distance as the stationary finger, both fingers being parallel to the shaft; a slab (9) supported at the same radial distance as the fingers and disposed beside them; a first spring (11) between the stationary finger and the slab; and a second spring (10) between the moving finger and the slab.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2005Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: SAGEM DEFENSE SECURITEInventors: Daniel Hors, Yvon Joncour
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Publication number: 20090025506Abstract: Vehicle Pedal Controls proof against Misapplication of Accelerator allows inversion-eversion operation of the acceleration pedal by the driver's foot for the better driver's distinction of the operation of the acceleration pedal from that of the brake pedal. And any of the invented vehicle control pedals, operable whether downward or transversely or inverse-eversely, provides for the braking of the vehicle with the strong push down of any pedal, whether the accelerator or the brake one,—that prevents the misapplication of the accelerator. In many embodiments of the invention, the pedal comprises the first part being impacted directly by the driver's foot, the last part being connected directly to the appropriate device of the vehicle (brakes or engine) and the detent holding said first part in mechanical relation to said last part, wherein said detent may be disengaged, for example, at misapplication of the acceleration pedal or certain other condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2007Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventor: Boris Karpachev
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Patent number: 7467569Abstract: A shifter mechanism includes a shift lever movable along a shift path and a detent assembly. The detent assembly includes a detent profile defining a plurality of gear positions, a bore, a detent plunger located at least partially within the bore, a spring member resiliently biasing the detent plunger into engagement with the detent profile, a split bushing located between the detent plunger and the bore, and a spacer located between the spring member and the bushing. The bushing is located between the spacer and an abutment of the detent plunger, and the spring member is located between the spacer and an abutment of the bore. Contact surfaces between the bushing and the abutment and between the bushing and the spacer are each angled so that a force of the spring member automatically expands the bushing to remove any free-play formed between the detent plunger and the bore.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2007Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
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Patent number: 7464625Abstract: An apparatus for opening and closing a door of a container apparatus of a vehicle can include a single knob, a shaft, a fixed member, a shaft biasing spring, an arm, and a cam. The shaft is movable in an axial direction of the shaft and rotatable about an axis of the shaft. The shaft has a radially extending portion. The shaft has first, second, and third rotational positions. The third rotational position is offset by 180 degrees from the first rotational position. The arm has an opening side arm corresponding to the first rotational position and a closing side arm corresponding to the third rotational position. A cam driving protrusion for rotating the cam is provided to at least one of the opening side arm and the closing side arm. A support member may be coupled to the arm. The support member includes an opening side support member and a closing side support member.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2007Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Kojima Press Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Keizo Sugiura, Seiji Isomura, Yoichi Yamamoto, Hitoshi Suga, Kazumi Sugesawa
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Publication number: 20080306369Abstract: A detachable latching mechanism is disclosed herein. The latching mechanism for latching a first apparatus to a second apparatus comprises: a detachable housing configured to be attached to the first apparatus. The housing includes a first and second housing member forming a channel there between. The latching mechanism includes a first latch supported by the first housing member and biased to extend into the channel in a first direction and a second latch supported by the second housing member and biased to extend into the channel in a second direction opposite from the first direction. Further the latching mechanism is provided with a latching member having a first end configured to be attached to the second apparatus and a second end having a protrusion configured to push against the first and second latches to move them apart when the latching member is inserted into the channel. The movements of the latches are perpendicular to the movement of the latching member.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2007Publication date: December 11, 2008Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventor: Shankar Murthy Udupa
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Publication number: 20080295633Abstract: An actuating device (1) for a technical system, especially for selecting gears of a shift-by-wire speed-change gear includes an actuating element (2) with at least two shift positions and a locking device (8). The locking device (8) has at least one actuator (7) driven with auxiliary energy and is used to reduce the shifting path of the actuating element (2) or to lock the actuating element (2). The actuator (7) has at least three different shifting states to make it possible to embody the necessary locking functions of the actuating lever with a reduced number of actuators and hence with a comparatively low design effort. Space, weight and costs can thus be saved.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2006Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventors: Andreas Giefer, Jorg Meyer
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Patent number: 7441713Abstract: A tamper resistant temperature dial and associated method of use is disclosed. This includes a temperature adjustment device associated with a controller for a heating device that includes a rotatable dial for setting temperature in the heating device, a ring that is operatively attached to the rotatable dial or the controller, wherein the ring includes a plurality of notched portions, and a resilient detent having a first portion engagable with at least one of the plurality of notched portions on the ring, a second portion for releasably applying pressure to the resilient detent for disengaging the first portion of the resilient detent from the at least one of the plurality of notched portions on the ring and having a third portion that is operatively attached to the attached to the controller or the rotatable dial. The heating device can be either electric or gas.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2004Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Robertshaw Controls CompanyInventors: Can Trong Nguyen, Raymond-Paul Joubran, Kenneth N. Minkler
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Patent number: 7442137Abstract: An eccentric adjustment and mounting system is useful for belt engaging engine components such as alternators or water pumps. The system includes a housing fixed to the engine, a socket rotatable in pawl-and-ratchet fashion within the housing, and a socket aperture eccentrically disposed relative to the socket's axis. The aperture receives the belt engaging component, whereby rotation of the socket moves the component to adjust belt tension.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: David N. Hansen
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Publication number: 20080257089Abstract: A bicycle component positioning device is basically provided with a fixed structure, an input member and a positioning member. The input member is movably coupled relative to the fixed structure. The input member has a first moving direction and a second moving direction. The positioning member is operatively coupled to the input mechanism to selectively move between a plurality of predetermined positions. The input member and the positioning member are configured and arranged relative to each other such that the positioning member is initially moved by the input member in a direction different from the first and second moving directions in response to movement of the input member both in the first moving direction and in the second moving direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventor: Takeshi Takachi
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Publication number: 20080258480Abstract: A door latch system is positioned within a slidable door system. The slidable door system includes at least one track and a door positioned within the track. The door latch system includes an engagement member and a spring form mountable within the slidable door system. The spring form is movable between a relaxed position and an actuated position and is configured to be out of a path of the engagement member when the spring form is in the relaxed position and to be engagable with the engagement member when the spring form is in the actuated position. One of the engagement member and the spring form is mounted to the door and the other is mounted to the track.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: Carrier CorporationInventors: Richard A. Seiss, Harry A. Brancheau
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Publication number: 20080229871Abstract: A control element is provided having programmable haptics, in particular a programmable central catch, for a motor vehicle, having a control knob which can be accommodated such that it can rotate, the control knob being connected in a force-fitting or interlocking manner to a toothed ring or having an integral design, and it being possible for the toothed ring (to be rotated by means of the control knob, and at least one latching element which can move towards the toothed ring and/or away from the toothed ring by means of an electromagnet.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventor: Andreas Kramlich
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Patent number: 7415904Abstract: The invention concerns an electromechanical actuator comprising at least an electric motor (1), as well as coupling (4) and gear reduction (4) means, which drive an output shaft (11). The invention is characterized in that the coupling and gear reduction means mesh with a crank plate (7) designed to be driven in rotation with an angular travel limited by two stops, a small connecting rod (9) being articulated to one end on a crank pin (8) of said crank plate and being articulated at its other end on a long connecting rod (10) which is itself integral with the output shaft, the two ends of said long connecting rod being respectively guided in displacement each along a guide, and the displacement angle between said two stops is more than 180°, the movements of the rod being structurally locked in case of overriding, the crank plate being immediately proximate to one of its travel limit stops.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Sagem SAInventors: Philippe Gouze, Yvon Joncour
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Publication number: 20080190235Abstract: In actuating devices such as, e.g., multifunctional actuators, it is necessary in many cases to block at least one specific direction of movement. A simple and reliably operating device is proposed for this purpose, which uses an electromagnet to bring a ball from a rest position into a blocking position. In the blocking position, the ball mechanically blocks the relative movement between two parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: Preh GmbHInventor: Andreas Kramlich
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Publication number: 20080163717Abstract: A seat track assembly is provided for adjusting a seat assembly of an automotive vehicle having a lower track (12) having a plurality of locking windows (74), an upper track (14) slidably mounted to the lower track and having a plurality of first (70) and second (72) support apertures. A locking mechanism (80) is operatively coupled between the lower and upper tracks. The locking mechanism includes a plurality of pins (88) movable in and out of a locked position, wherein the pins project through the locking windows and are supported by the first and second support aperture in a double shearing condition to prevent sliding adjustment of the upper track relative in the lower track.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2004Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: James L. Weber
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Publication number: 20080041185Abstract: A parking brake assembly which includes a brake lever, a rotary clutch and a lock-release mechanism which cooperate to selectively lock and release a parking brake. The clutch allows actuation of the brake lever in one direction and prevents movement of the brake lever in an opposite direction. The lock-release mechanism allows selective movement of the rotary clutch and the brake lever together in the opposite direction. The rotary clutch may be disposed generally coaxially with a pivot axis of the brake lever.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Applicant: Dura Global Technologies Inc.Inventors: Ronald J. Hanna, Adam W. Remesz
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Patent number: 7325466Abstract: A servo control device for driving hydraulic equipment with electromagnetic coupling, and more precisely it refers to a manipulator with detent to lock the system in particular positions in order to allow its continuous operation, with possible actions on pushers next to the one pressed with active coupling. The detent is composed of an electromagnet (8) integral with the shaft (3) of the manipulator (2) connected through a joint (6) to the servo-control body and of a coupling plate (9) secured to the servo-control body by a peg or joint (10) whose axis (13) is coaxial with the joint axis (11).Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Walvoil S.p.A.Inventors: Mirco Allegretti, Felice Di Vico
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Publication number: 20080022805Abstract: A locking mechanism for a shift lever includes a detent member movable along a path, a stopper member movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, and a cam member. A spring member resiliently biases the stopper member toward the locking position. An electromagnetic solenoid has a coil fixed to the cam member and a core fixed to the stopper member. The electromagnetic solenoid permits relative movement between the stopper member and the cam member when the electromagnetic solenoid is unenergized and prevents relative movement between the stopper member and the cam member when the electromagnetic solenoid is energized. The cam member applies a force to the stopper member to move the stopper member toward the unlocking position in response to movement of the detent member when the electromagnetic solenoid is energized.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventors: Brian Douglas Howe, Jeffrey Gibson, David A. Choby
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Patent number: 7315006Abstract: A ball ratchet mechanism suitable for use with an electrical disconnect employs a track and drive surface that engage the ball so as to capture it without significant shear force being applied to ridges of the track. In this way, the shape of the track can be optimized for smooth ratcheting action without the risk of high torques shearing track ridges.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Theodore John Houck, III, Jie Ning, James Peter Miller
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Publication number: 20070284237Abstract: A remotely configurable control lever is disclosed for operating an electrical switch on the control panel of an agricultural vehicle. A cam plate 22 rotatable with the control lever has a cam track 23 defining at least one notch, which is selectively engaged by a resiliently biased detent 24 to latch the control lever in a predetermined position. A solenoid 32 is provided for retracting the detent to allow the control lever 10 to return to a neutral position. A second cam track 123 is provided which is rotatable with the control lever 10 and defines at least one stop cooperating with a further retractable detent 124 to limit the range of angular displacement of the control lever 10.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2007Publication date: December 13, 2007Inventor: Tim Jarrett
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Patent number: 7270027Abstract: A detent lever assembly for implementation with an electronic transmission range selection (ETRS) system that shifts a transmission range between a park position and an out-of-park position. The detent lever assembly includes a shaft rotatably supported by a housing and a detent lever rotatably supported by the shaft and rotatable between a first position and a second position. In a first mode, the detent lever is rotatable about the shaft and in a second mode the detent lever is rotatable with the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2003Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Todd R. Berger, Stephen W. Powell, Mark A. Vernacchia
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Patent number: 7263865Abstract: A self-powered electric lock includes a lock bolt and a first engagement element having disengaged and engageable positions. An electric actuator includes an output operative to move the first engagement element to its engageable position. A manually operated rotatable member is operatively coupled to the first engagement element when the first engagement element is in its engageable position. A lock bolt drive mechanism is coupled to the lock bolt and to the first engagement element when the first engagement element is in its engageable position. The movable output moves the first engagement element to its engageable position upon input of correct electronic data. An electricity generator is coupled to the manually operated rotatable member. The electricity powers the electric actuator and an electronic data input device. The manually operated rotatable member is also used to actuate the lock bolt drive mechanism and retract the lock bolt.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: C&M Technology, Inc.Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael Harvey, James L. Taylor, Thomas Clark, Gerry Dawson
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Patent number: 7255020Abstract: A plunger with interchangeable handle system for machine tools. The plunger includes a shank adapted to engage a machine tool and having a retractable plunger and a threaded adapter, the interchangeable handle system includes a plurality of knobs, each having a discrete shape differing from the others and a socket to receive the threaded adapter of the shank.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2003Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Northwestern Tools, Inc.Inventors: James R. Thomeczek, Thomas A. Thomeczek, Scott R. Williamson
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Patent number: 7246538Abstract: A centering device for elongated elements consisting of a fixed position-retaining part (13) which includes a concave guiding surface (16), and a mobile position-retaining part (12) arranged on the elongated element, or vice versa. The mobile position-retaining part (12) includes a pin (14) which is spring biased for contact against the concave guiding surface. The pin (14) is arranged in at least one casing, and is together with the casing arranged in a cavity (20) in a holder which is fixedly attached to the elongated element with a pin head (23) protruding out of an opening (24) in a front end of both the casing and the holder. The holder (15) includes a seat (38) with a guiding surface for a peripherally conical portion (36) of the casing. This is spring biased in the axial direction so that the conical portion strives to be in contact with the seat of the holder in and for centering of the casing and the pin relative to the longitudinal axis (21) of the holder.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2002Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Kongsberg Automotive ABInventor: Bengt Hermansson
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Patent number: 7243575Abstract: An indexing and braking mechanism for a manual transmission having a shifting mechanism and at least one rotatable drive shaft is disclosed. The mechanism includes an indexing mechanism for controlling movement of the shifting mechanism between at least a first position and a neutral position. The indexing mechanism has a plate having a plurality of notches formed thereon, wherein one notch corresponds to the first position and another notch corresponds to the neutral position. A locking mechanism is provided for selectively limiting movement of one of the at least one rotatable drive shaft. The locking mechanism is adapted to selectively engage the plurality of notches to selectively maintain the indexing mechanism in one of the first position and the neutral position. The locking mechanism includes an indexing lever having a contact surface for contacting the rotatable drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2003Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Gerhard Niederwimmer
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Patent number: 7207541Abstract: A locking device of a longitudinal adjustment device of a vehicle seat is provided with a catch bar with periodically arranged snap openings and snap studs that is assigned to a bottom rail of the longitudinal adjustment device and is further provided with a locking unit assigned to a seat rail of the longitudinal adjustment device. The locking device has at least two licking pins that can be inserted into the snap openings independent of one another, they can be disengaged only jointly. The locking pins are arranged in a guide member which has a pin bore for each locking pin. The guide member is provided with an area facing the catch bar. Projections projecting toward the catch bar are arranged on this area and extend as a continuation of the pin bore.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2002Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: C. Rob. Hammerstein GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Ernst-Reiner Frohnhaus, Klaus Kautzner
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Patent number: 7194929Abstract: A pole for a hand pallet truck that includes a pole bar which is linked to a support for a steerable wheel at its lower end and connected to a loop-shaped handle at the other end. An operating device is disposed within the space defined by the handle. The operating device is attached to a holding extension projecting into the handle in prolongation of the bar, and is connectable to a lifting apparatus of the hand pallet truck via a traction and/or pushing element. If applicable, it is connectable via a second traction and/or pushing element to a brake of the hand pallet truck, wherein an operating lever is disposed on either side of the extension. The operating levers are pivotally mounted on the holding extension in a plane essentially defined by the handle.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Jungheinrich AktiengesellschaftInventor: Martin von Werder
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Patent number: 7140551Abstract: An HVAC controller with a simplified and/or lower cost user interface. In one illustrative embodiment, the HVAC controller includes two switches, a movable member, and a plurality of detents. The detents are configured to cause the two switches to be switched in a sequence when the movable member is moved. In some cases, a controller is coupled to the two switches, and may change an HVAC control parameter based on the switch sequence.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Jurianus de Pauw, Joseph E. Oberdorf, Antonius A. M. Smets, Mark W. Peterson
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Patent number: 7082854Abstract: A positive engagement latching mechanism (22) for a seat assembly (10) of a vehicle includes a track member (28) having a multiple apertures (30), each of which having nonuniform width. Multiple engageable devices (42), each having a tapered engagement portion (52), positively engage in the apertures (30). A latching mechanism engagement-maintaining system (24) for a seat track assembly (12) of the seat assembly (10) includes an engageable device housing (40) having a tapered sides (46) that corresponds with a contour of an adjacent track member edge (48). A shear load resistive device (88) is coupled to the housing (40) and a track member (26) and resists vertical travel of the track member (26) in relation to the housing (40). A load guide (90) is coupled to the housing (40) and to the track member (26) and guides direction of travel of the track member (26) under loading conditions.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Neil G. Goodbred, David J. Abdella
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Patent number: 7051614Abstract: A quiet apply push to release control pedal system includes a frame to mount the system to a vehicle. The frame also includes a geared rack and a pedal arm and a quiet apply carriage are rotatably mounted to the frame. The quiet apply carriage has a geared quiet apply mechanism which engages the geared rack and a cable carrier to which a control cable can be attached. Pushing the pedal moves the carriage to tension a control cable attached thereto by rotating the quiet apply mechanism along the geared rack. The quiet apply mechanism includes a clutch which prevents the gear from rotating in a direction to release the tension in the cable unless the clutch is released. The carriage also includes a pawl and toggle mechanism which locks the pedal arm to rotate with the carriage to tension the cable when the pedal is first pressed.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Intier Automotive Closures Inc.Inventor: Vadym Podkopayev
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Patent number: 7000880Abstract: Slide for vehicle seat, comprising a first runner provided with first and second notches, a second runner provided with first and second cut-outs and a catch comprising first and second teeth. The first and second cut-outs are disposed asymmetrically relative to the longitudinal direction so that, when the catch is in the locked position, firstly the first tooth can be in contact with the inclined front edge of the first cut-out and with the rear edge of the first notch and secondly the second tooth can be in contact with the inclined rear edge of the second cut-out and with the front edge of the second notch.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Faurecia Sieges d'Automobile S.A.Inventor: Paul Jaudouin
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Patent number: 6994361Abstract: A steering control apparatus centers a vehicle steer wheel movable away from a selected center position and includes a rotary member having a face with centering detents, a piston member having a face arranged opposite to the rotary member face with a centering detent aligned with each rotary member detent when the rotary member is center. Bearing members are resiliently pressed between the rotary and piston members, and each is arranged to be in contact with a seat of each of the aligned detents when the steer wheel is centered and to move out of the seats when the rotary member rotates relative to the piston member in response to steering movements by the vehicle driver. Each of the detents includes opposing ramps sloped up from the seat to a track in the corresponding face, and the ramps and tracks may be formed as grooves having substantially the same radius as the bearing members.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Inventor: Durrell U Howard
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Patent number: 6955103Abstract: A pedal assembly (12) for electronically controlling an engine throttle (38). The pedal assembly (12) includes a pedal housing (14), a pedal arm (18) pivotally engaging the pedal housing (14), and an electrical generator (30) supported by the pedal housing (14). The pedal arm (18) is operable between an idle position (24) and a plurality of operable positions. When the pedal arm (18) is pivoted to a predetermined operable position (50), a kickdown member (46) provides a kickdown feel to a user. The kickdown member (46) slides within a kickdown housing (54) to provide the kickdown feel. In particular, a plurality of detent members (53a-53d) springably move into and out from a plurality of detent pockets (55a-55d) to provide the kickdown feel.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Teleflex IncorporatedInventor: David J. Crack
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Patent number: 6926034Abstract: A hydraulic spool lock with a hydraulic spool housing, first and second hydraulic spools mounted within the hydraulic spool housing for independent selective movement with respect to the hydraulic spool housing, and a lock plunger movable mounted to the hydraulic spool housing. The present invention allows independent movement of the spools with respect to the hydraulic spool housing when the hydraulic spool lock is in the unlocked position. The present inventions prevents movement of the spools with respect to the hydraulic spool housing when the hydraulic spool lock is in a locked position.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Prince Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Michael A. Otterby
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Patent number: 6923084Abstract: A device for increasing a selection force is integrated into a support arrangement of a shift lever. The device is pivotable around a pivot axis and also around a tilt axis aligned transversely to the pivot axis. The selection force upon pivoting movements of the shift lever around the tilt axis is produced by at least one lever that is movable against a spring and a runoff roller placed in operative connection with the lever (24, 38). The device is integrated into a support arrangement for pivotable support of the shift lever by a casing in a housing. The support arrangement supports the shift lever pivotably with respect to the casing around the pivot axis and also supports the shift lever with the casing pivotably with respect to the housing around the tilt axis aligned transversely to the pivot axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: INA-Schaeffler KGInventors: Klaus Krämer, Susanne Pintus
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Patent number: 6915719Abstract: A pedal release structure for a parking brake is disclosed. The structure preferably includes a locking lever rotatably mounted on an assembly bracket, a resilient unit for resiliently supporting the locking lever in order to rotate the locking lever in an opposite direction from the return direction of the parking brake pedal, a rotation scope limiting unit for limiting the rotation scope of the locking lever, a locking unit for allowing a release lever to lock the locking lever according as the release cable is pulled, and a releasing unit for allowing the release lever locked by the locking lever to be released. With this structure the release lever is enabled to continue acting on a torsion spring until the parking brake pedal is completely released even when the return speed of the parking brake pedal is slowed due to cold temperature.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: July 12, 2005Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Myung-Jong Joo
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Patent number: 6877773Abstract: Automatic and simultaneous retraction of a pair of stabilizer legs for a backhoe loader machine is beneficial for the operator (not shown). Instead of retracting the stabilizer legs by manually holding a pair of control levers continuously in a retract position, the operator (not shown) may simply move the control levers to an auto-retract position. The movement of the control levers in such a manner activates a control switch in connection with each of the control levers. The control switches, in turn, activate a timer relay that activates a solenoid detent operative with each control lever. Once the solenoid detents are in an activated state, the operator (not shown) may relinquish contact with the control levers. The solenoid detents will retain the control levers in the auto-retract position via electro-magnetic forces.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2000Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Caterpillar IncInventors: John S. Bibb, Shane W. Kiger, Kenneth J. McGuire
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Patent number: 6865969Abstract: A pedal structure for exercise devices includes a pedal having a groove for receiving an operation rod therein and two positioning ports are defined in a side of the pedal. The positioning ports are continuous notches which are in communication with each other. Two connection ports are located on the operation rod and communicate with the positioning ports. Two positioning members respectively extend through the positioning ports and are engaged with the connection ports. The positioning members are able to slide between the continuous notches so as to adjust the effective length of the pedal relative to the operation rod.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Kerry Peters Stevens
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Patent number: 6826976Abstract: A shaft and detent assembly includes a detent lever assembly that is manually assembled on the shaft. The detent lever includes a hub which has an opening formed therein alignable with an opening formed in the shaft. A pin is inserted through the opening in both the hub and the shaft to secure the two members together for common rotation. A cylindrical retainer is assembled on the hub of the detent lever in a position to overlap or cover at least a portion of the openings in the detent lever and shaft to restrict the movement of the pin, which is secured therein during assembly. The retainer also has a plurality of spring fingers, which engage a groove formed in the hub to restrict inadvertent removal of the retainer from the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2002Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Richard L. Whitebread, Heidi L. Simmons
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Patent number: 6826979Abstract: A detent mechanism is provided for minimizing the force balance condition of an operating lever assembly. The detent mechanism has a detent housing with first and second detent members disposed therein. Means are provided for biasing the first detent member against rotation. The second detent member frictionally engages the first detent member while being capable of movement relative thereto. The second detent member is also disposed for selective engagement of detent notches provided on the first detent member, whereby movement of the second detent member with and relative to the first detent member causes the first detent member to rotate in a first direction until the means for biasing exerts enough force on the first detent member to cause the first detent member to rotate in a second direction causing the second detent member to engage an adjacent detent notch of the first detent member.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Niels Dybro
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Patent number: 6820514Abstract: A synchronizer body (1) of a synchronizing device for manual transmissions comprising a base body (2) made out of sheet metal by shaping, an inner toothing (11), and an outer toothing (10) and at least one reception (5) formed in the base body (2) for receiving a spring-loaded detent element (7) forms an assembled unit with the spring-loaded detent element (7).Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Ina Walzlager Schaeffler oHGInventors: Josef Schwuger, Rudolf Sinner, Hartwig Waldert
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Patent number: 6810767Abstract: A lock comprising a roller stop having a forward end; at least a first roller receiving concavity mounted for movement across the forward end of the roller stop; a roller mounted for movement between forward and rearward positions, the roller, while at its forward position, extending into the at least first roller receiving concavity and overlying the forward end of the roller stop; a plunger having a forward end and a rearward end, the plunger being mounted for motion between forward and rearward positions, the plunger, while at its forward position, holding the roller at its forward position, the plunger, while at its rearward position, allowing the roller to move to its rearward position; and a toggle mounted for alternate flexion and hyperextension, the toggle, upon hyperextension, holding the plunger at its forward position, the toggle, upon flexion, holding the plunger at its rearward position.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Aerospace Systems & Components, Inc.Inventor: Warren Dale Sutton, Sr.
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Publication number: 20040149073Abstract: The invention relates to a stop device (1). The control element (2) of said stop device, which is provided with notches (5), can be displaced past a fixed stop member (6) comprising a stop element (8) which supports itself in an elastic manner on a cam plate (3) of the regulating element (2). Said stop element (8) is held on an elastically positioned base part (7) of the stop member (6) in the direction of regulation, in such a way that it can be deviated. When a summit (4) of the cam plate (3) is passed, the restoring force of the stop element (8) causes a secure engagement in the following notch (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2004Publication date: August 5, 2004Inventor: Roland Ruegenberg
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Patent number: 6769325Abstract: A detent assembly for a transmission is provided including a transmission component, such as a shift rail, movable between a plurality of shift positions including first, second, and neutral shift positions. A contoured surface on the shift rail includes first and second recesses, respectively, corresponding to the first and second shift positions. A neutral recess is arranged between the first and second shift recesses corresponding to the neutral shift position. The first and second recesses, respectively, include first and second transition surfaces sloping towards the neutral recess with the second transition surface being steeper than the first transition surface. A detent assembly includes a biasing member and a detent member with the biasing member urging the detent member into engagement with the contoured surface. The biasing member generates a first work along the first transition surface and a second force along the second transition surface greater than the first work.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: ZF Meritor, LLCInventors: Dean Molde, Patrick Scheib
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Patent number: 6763742Abstract: A mobile storage unit includes a drive system which is operable in response to rotation of an actuator handle mounted to the mobile storage unit. A torque limiting mechanism is interposed between the actuator handle and the drive system, for rotating an input member of the drive system in response to rotation of the actuator handle. The torque limiting mechanism de-couples the actuator handle from the drive system input member when an excessive force is applied to the actuator handle, to prevent adverse effects which can result from application of an excessive force to the components of the drive system. The torque limiting mechanism includes a hub mounted to the actuator handle and an input member mounted to an input shaft associated with the mobile storage unit drive system, and prevents rotation of the input member when the force applied to the hub member exceeds a predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Spacesaver CorporationInventor: Steven M. Lehmann
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Publication number: 20040134297Abstract: A self-locking device for a gear set is configured to permit forward-driving an input in either of first and second rotational directions and for substantially preventing an output from being back-driven in either of the rotational directions. The device includes a gear disposed to rotate with a drive shaft. The device further includes first and second releasable couplings coupled to the gear and, respectively, to first and second ratchets. The first ratchet is disposed to prevent rotation in a first direction and to permit rotation in a second direction. The second ratchet is disposed to prevent rotation in the second direction and permit rotation in the first direction. The device may be useful, for example, in a valve gearbox. A gearbox and a method of fabricating a gearbox are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventors: Thomas C. West, Patrick S. West
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Patent number: 6729203Abstract: A shifting device including first and second shift control members, a takeup element, a holding member, and a release member. The takeup element configured for winding and unwinding a tensioned control cable. The first control member is rotatable about a handlebar and configured to rotate the takeup to at least pull or wind the control cable onto the takeup. The second control member is a return-to-neutral member for rotating the takeup to release the. The holding member is rotatable with the takeup and retains the takeup in select angular positions. The release member is operable for disengaging the holding member in response to the actuation or return stroke of the second control member for allowing the takeup to unwind the cable a sufficient amount to enable a single gear shift.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: SRAM CorporationInventors: Kevin F. Wesling, Christopher A. Shipman, John D. Cheever, James P. Orrico, Danny R. Smith, Jr., Georg K. Blaschke