Yieldable Patents (Class 74/581)
  • Patent number: 12145677
    Abstract: Provided are: a linear-motion damper which can avoid an increase in the size of a device configuration of an attachment target and broaden the type of attachment target to which the linear-motion damper is attachable; and a steering device including the linear-motion damper. A steering device (100) includes a linear-motion damper (120) between a rack bar (103) and a rack end (106). In the linear-motion damper (120), an inner chamber (121) is formed between an inner chamber forming body (130) and a socket main body (107) therein. The socket main body (107) is a shaft-shaped component forming the rack end (106) in the steering device (100). The socket main body (107) is slidably fitted in the inner chamber forming body (130). The inner chamber forming body (130) is formed in a tubular shape, and at an inner peripheral portion thereof, is formed with a circular ring-shaped flow control valve (140).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2024
    Assignee: SOMIC MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS INC.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Nakaya
  • Patent number: 11541995
    Abstract: A structural member for use in a rotor system which rotates about a rotational axis includes a pin which extends substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis, a filler component positioned adjacent the pin, and a plurality of layers of composite material having fibers oriented lengthwise along a central axis which is perpendicular to the rotational axis. The plurality of fibers in the layers of composite material is wrapped about the pin and the filler component such that the fibers extend along the central axis and the plurality of layers form an opening filled by the filler component and which decreases as a function of distance from the pin along the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Eric S. Parsons
  • Patent number: 11280257
    Abstract: A linkage extends between an actuator and a valve in a turbocharger. The linkage comprises two spaced member bodies having central portions with opposing curved shapes that extend between ends translatable along and rotatable about spaced pivots. Translation of one member toward the other member compresses the central portions, increasing overall stiffness of the linkage, and translation of one member away from the other member creates a gap between the central portions, allowing independent translation of the ends along the spaced pivots to compensate for misalignment between the actuator and the valve caused by heat and vibration. Another linkage extending between an actuator and a valve in a turbocharger includes two planar spaced member bodies extending between ends translatable along and rotatable about spaced pivots. The two member bodies have different thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Ledger, Sean N. Hastings, Thomas C. Harris, Jonathan R. Williams
  • Patent number: 10864788
    Abstract: A four-point link (1) for a wheel suspension of a vehicle, having a core element (2), a thread (3) and four bushings (6). The thread (3) is pre-impregnated with a resin. The core element (2) has a torsional element (4) and four supporting arms (5) integrally connected to the torsional element (4). A bushing (6) is arranged, on each respective distal end of the supporting arms (5), for holding a respective bearing element. The core element (2) and the respective bushings (6) are at least partially wrapped with the thread (3) in order to connect the bushing (6), in each case, to the thread (3) at least in a non-positive manner. In addition, a method for producing the above-mentioned four-point link (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignees: ZF Friedrichshafen AG, SCHÄFER MWN GMBH
    Inventors: Ingolf Müller, Jens Heimann, Manfred Bürgmann, Ignacio Lobo Casanova, Andre Stieglitz, Carsten Sohl, Valentin Hörtdörfer
  • Patent number: 9511754
    Abstract: The invention is a hydraulic fluid pump of a vehicle brake system, which has a delivery device for delivering hydraulic fluid against a hydraulic counter-pressure prevailing in a section of the vehicle brake system. The hydraulic fluid pump further has a mechanism for modifying the volume delivered by the delivery device in accordance with the level of the hydraulic counter-pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Christian Doberschuetz
  • Patent number: 9291202
    Abstract: A friction-enhancing lacquer contains a binder and hard material particles. The hard material particles include a titanium-boron compound or consist of a titanium-boron compound, such as titanium diboride. The friction-enhancing lacquer is applied to the surface of a machine part, such as a bearing component, in order to increase its coefficient of friction and minimize or prevent slippage relative to another machine part clamped thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: AKTIEBOLAGET SKF
    Inventor: Thilo von Schleinitz
  • Patent number: 9157470
    Abstract: A draw-pull bar is described which consists of at least one adapter with a metallic tubular end and of an inner and outer tubular body out of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). It is characterized thus that the outer CFRP tubular body conically wraps the metallic end of the adapter from the outside in a form-fit manner while the inner CFRP tubular body is form-fit connected with the metallic ends of the adapter. An elastomeric layer is tapered in the contact area between the inner tubular body and the outer tubular body in such a way that both tubular bodies are separated on the one side, but are arranged against each other in a protected and damped manner on the other side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: GMT Gummi-Metall-Technik GmbH
    Inventor: Albert Uhl
  • Patent number: 8707669
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of fabricating a metal link rod (6) that is longitudinally reinforced in its thickness by fiber reinforcement (2), the method comprising the following steps: making a metal blank including at least one longitudinal housing (11, 12) leading into an edge face of the blank; inserting fiber reinforcement (2) in the housing; connecting the fiber reinforcement to the blank by metal diffusion around the fibers of the fiber reinforcement (2); and finishing the blank in order to obtain a link rod (6). The invention also provides a link rod having a metal matrix in which reinforcing fibers are embedded that extend on either side of a longitudinal axis (X) of the link rod, the fibers leading into an edge face of the link rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Messier-Bugatti-Dowty
    Inventors: Richard Masson, Patrick Dunleavy, Jean-Michel Franchet, Gilles Klein
  • Publication number: 20140109721
    Abstract: A process for the production of an end fitting attached to a body in the form of a longitudinal part such as a tube, with the end fitting including a yoke with two arms (18-1, 18-2), each equipped with a hole (20-1, 20-2) designed to work with a pin, is characterized in that at least one area (34) of less rigidity is made in the end fitting, in the area located upstream from the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: EPSILON COMPOSITE
    Inventors: Noel CARRERE, Dominique NOGUES
  • Publication number: 20140102247
    Abstract: The compressors of the invention comprise: a crankcase carrying a cylinder, inside which is lodged a piston provided with two radial holes and with one eccentric axial hole; a connecting rod having a smaller eye mounted in the interior of the piston and connected to a larger eye through a rod; a wrist pin provided with a diametral hole and disposed through the smaller eye of the connecting rod and through the opposite radial holes of the piston; and an elastic pin to be inserted in the eccentric axial hole of the piston and in the diametral hole of the wrist pin. The connecting rod incorporates an indexing stop which defines an axial seating surface for a tool for inserting the elastic pin, said axial seating surface being positioned at a predetermined distance from the axis of the smaller eye of the connecting rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL S.A.
    Inventors: Fabiano Domingos Silva, Gelson Longo
  • Patent number: 8684706
    Abstract: A linear compressor has a hollow piston with crown and sidewall. The piston reciprocates in a cylinder. A piston rod connects the piston to a spring. A connection between the piston rod and the piston transmits axial forces directly to the piston crown. The connection transmits lateral forces to the piston at an axial location away from the piston crown. The connection allows rotational flexibility between the piston and the piston rod transverse to and uniformly around the piston reciprocation axis. Other improvements in or relating to linear compressors are disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited
    Inventors: Ian Campbell McGill, David Julian White, Upesh Patel
  • Publication number: 20130283942
    Abstract: A connecting rod for an aeronautical actuator system, having one shaft transmitting forces applied in tension and/or compression along a longitudinal axis of the rod. When the connecting rod is in service, an elastically deformable element connected to the shaft is configured to react to the forces applied to the shaft, and displays elastic deformation when effected by these forces. The deformable element has a peripheral part rigidly connected to a member of the rod in which the shaft is slidably mounted. Measurement means associated with the deformable element determine the forces. The measurement means is partially housed in the deformable element. The deformable element includes a central part elongated along the longitudinal axis, which is rigidly connected to the shaft and in which the measurement means are at least partially housed. An intermediate part runs transversally to the central part and connects the central part and the peripheral part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: SKF AEROSPACE FRANCE
    Inventors: Franck Bouillot, Cedric Milord
  • Patent number: 8491740
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of fabricating a structural part comprising a tubular portion from which there projects a structural element made of composite material, the method comprising the steps of: shaping a plane preform comprising a stack of a plurality of superposed fiber plies such that over at least a fraction of the preform that is to form a structural portion, the plies are secured to one another, and over at least another fraction of the preform that is to form a portion for connecting to the tube, the plies are separable so as to form two facing sheets; inserting a tube between the sheets of the connection portion so that the sheets surround the tube at least in part; and bonding the tube to the preform such that the tube forms the tubular portion and the preform forms the structural element of the structural part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Messier-Bugatti-Dowty
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Serey, Patrick Dunleavy
  • Publication number: 20130118301
    Abstract: The link for an aircraft comprises at least two portions respectively made of metal and of composite material together forming a common section of a middle segment of the link in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Airbus Operations
    Inventors: Guillaume Gallant, Julien Guillemaut
  • Publication number: 20080134833
    Abstract: A driving rod for the piston of a reciprocating compressor of the type that comprises: a cylinder block defining a compression chamber; a piston reciprocating within the compression chamber; a driving means to apply reciprocating forces to the piston; and a driving rod disposed between the piston and the driving means and comprising a number, greater than 1, of rods disposed side by side along the axis of the driving rod and each presenting a cross-section that is dimensioned and configured to impart to the driving rod, jointly with the other rods, a required axial rigidity and a flexibility, in at least one direction transversal to the axis of the driving rod, sufficient to absorb, at least substantially, the forces exerted on the piston by the driving rod and by the driving means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL S.A.
    Inventors: Dietmar Erich Bernhard Lilie, Egidio Berwanger, Rinaldo Puff, Alberto Bruno Feldmann
  • Patent number: 7163092
    Abstract: Attenuation of transmission of noise along a clutch linkage for a manual transmission clutch is achieved by providing a segmented linkage. A clutch pedal side segment has a substantially greater mass than does the clutch lever side segment. Bi-directional force between the clutch lever side segment and he clutch pedal side segment is through compressible bearings located inside a coupler between the segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Harry G. Woehrle
  • Patent number: 7059009
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member reaches a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition, such as snow or ice build up on the windshield. In one embodiment, the predetermined load is defined as: PCR=KE=1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Allen Bryson, Harry Charles Buchanan, Yaomin Dong, James Preston Penrod
  • Patent number: 7017224
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent, greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member is in excess of the predetermined load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry Charles Buchanan, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040187633
    Abstract: An extendable coupling structure used in an engine and coupled between a piston and a crankshaft is constructed to include, a first connector pivoted to the piston, a second connector pivoted to the crankshaft, a hinge coupled between the first connector and the second connector, and a spring-based guide coupled between the bottom end of the first connector and the top end of the second connector and adapted to guide movement of the first connector and the second connector between a close position and an open position and to accelerate rotation of the crankshaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Siegfried Meyer
  • Publication number: 20040187634
    Abstract: A spring-based crankshaft coupling structure used in an engine and coupled between a piston and a crankshaft to enhance the output torque of the engine is disclosed to include a first coupling member pivoted to the piston, the first coupling member having a downwardly extended receiving open chamber defined in a downwardly extended hollow body thereof and an inner tube suspended in the downwardly extended receiving open chamber, a second coupling member pivoted to the crankshaft, the second coupling member having an upwardly extended hollow body axially movably sleeved onto the inner tube in the hollow body of the first coupling member, and an axially compressible spring member mounted in the inner tube inside the first coupling member and coupled between the first coupling member and the second coupling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Siegfried Meyer
  • Publication number: 20040187632
    Abstract: A spring-supported coupling device used in an engine and coupled between a piston and a crankshaft is constructed to include, a first connector pivoted to the piston, a second connector pivoted to the crankshaft, a rod member coupled between the first connector and the second connector and axially movable relative to the first connector and the second connector, and a spring member axially compressibly connected between the first connector and the second connector around the rod member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Siegfried Meyer
  • Patent number: 6785930
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member reaches a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition, such as snow or ice build up on the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry C. Buchanan, Jr., Yaomin Dong
  • Publication number: 20040034957
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent, greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member is in excess of the predetermined load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: VALEO ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Harry Charles Buchanan, Yaomin Dong
  • Publication number: 20040034958
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent, greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member is in excess of the predetermined load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: VALEO ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Harry Charles Buchanan,
  • Publication number: 20040016075
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent, greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member Is in excess of the predetermined load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: VALEO ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce Allen Bryson, Harry Charles Buchanan, Yaomin Dong, James Preston Penrod
  • Patent number: 6655230
    Abstract: A brake pedal assembly 12 for a vehicle includes a pedal 14 and a foot pad 16 operatively engageable by the operator of a vehicle. The pedal assembly 12 also includes a collapsible push rod 22 or 22′ connected between the lever 14 and a hydraulic actuator assembly 20. The push rod 22 and 22′ includes a first rod member 40 telescopically engaged with a second rod member 42 and collapsible relative one to the other upon experiencing a force greater than a predetermined amount of force. The pedal assembly 12 further includes a connector assembly comprising an inertial mass 50 for preventing collapse of the push rod 22 or 22′ during normal vehicle operation, and movable to a second position to allow for collapse of the push rod 22 or 22′ upon experiencing a predetermined deceleration. Accordingly, the pedal assembly 12 reduces forces that may otherwise be transferred to the operator of the vehicle during a collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Dan Rupp, Michael Edward Brewer
  • Patent number: 6381800
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent, greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member reaches a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition, such as snow or ice build up on the windshield. In one embodiment, the predetermined load is defined as: PCR=KE=1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry C. Buchanan, Jr., Yaomin Dong
  • Patent number: 6148470
    Abstract: This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member reaches a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition, such as snow or ice build up on the windshield. In one embodiment, the predetermined load is defined as:P.sub.CR =KE=1.3P.sub.link ; where:P.sub.CR =the predetermined load;P.sub.link =a maximum normal running load for a comparably-sized steel or rigid link which does not flex;K is a coefficient= ##EQU1## E is the flexural modulus (MPa) and I is a moment of inertia in mm.sup.4and L is a length (mm) of flexible arm 28.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry C. Buchanan, Jr., Yaomin Dong
  • Patent number: 6098495
    Abstract: Rotatable valve assembly includes a mounting mechanism for rotatably mounting a valve in a housing. The mounting mechanism includes a shaft having an outside end extending through the housing. A conversion mechanism converts fluid pressure in the housing into torque exerted on the shaft. A release mechanism is located outside the housing for preventing rotation of the shaft and valve when the torque exerted on the shaft is below a selected magnitude. A linearizing mechanism converts the forces exerted on the release mechanism by the shaft into a linear force. The release mechanism allows the shaft to rotate when the torque exerted on the shaft and the linear force exerted on the release mechanism exceeds a selected magnitude. A seal is provided for sealing the gap between the valve and the housing in the closed position of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Zhenggang Wang, John A. Tomasko, Stephen P. Farwell
  • Patent number: 5727926
    Abstract: A pitch link having an adjustable length is constructed as a diamond-shaped frame by coupling and fixing four flexible beams at end portions thereof. Spherical bearings are provided on opposite ends of the structure. A turnbuckle shaft is screwed into vertices of the structure and turned to the length of the pitch link. The turnbuckle shaft can be rotated by a detachable motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideaki Ide, Shunichi Bandoh, Hiroshi Yasuhara
  • Patent number: 5617820
    Abstract: According to the present invention a connecting rod is defined by a longitudinally extending beam having, at a first end, a piston pin bearing boss and, at a second end, a crankpin bearing boss. The longitudinally extending beam includes an opening extending from a location near the piston pin bearing boss to a location near the crankpin bearing boss to define opposing webs or legs. Under loads imposed on the connecting rod during the combustion event, the opposing legs exhibit a resiliency which allows inward movement, towards the beam axis. The inward movement of the opposing legs absorbs a portion of the applied load, thereby reducing the amplitude of the force transferred to the crankpin. As the force of the combustion event diminishes through downward movement of the piston in the engine cylinder, the opposing legs move outwardly, away from the beam axis, returning to their original relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: John M. Beardmore, Bruce A. Tucker, David N. Leland
  • Patent number: 5233884
    Abstract: A connection between a drive member and a driven member comprises a first nickel titanium alloy wire interconnecting the drive member and a rigid link and a second nickel titanium alloy wire connecting the rigid link and the drive member. Such a wire, when properly heat treated, has a high tensile and also a high compressive strength while at the same time the wire will bend readily if there is misalignment between the longitudinal movements of the drive and driven members. Thus the assembly functions as a two-ball joint drive line similar to that used in automobiles. A preferred usage is in driving the plunger of a syringe in a dosage metering system from a moving machine element where the syringe bore and direction of movement of the machine element may be slightly out of alignment. Wear of the syringe seals is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Inventor: Jerry E. Rochte
  • Patent number: 5157987
    Abstract: A tie rod device includes a vibration-absorbing damper. The tie rod comprises a tie rod assembly comprising first and second rods for interconnecting a rack shaft and a knuckle. The vibration-absorbing damper is interposed between the first and second rods for absorbing vibration transmitted from the knuckle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shiro Satoh, Takashi Takeuchi, Koji Shibuya, Tetsuya Kogo
  • Patent number: 5136893
    Abstract: A gearshift rod for an automotive manual transmission includes two tubular shift rods that support stop plates welded to the inner surface of the rods. Spaced axially along an overlapping region of the rod, located between the stop plates are resilient damping members. A resilient damping strip is located between the longitudinal edges of semicircular portions of the shift rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Egon Wilhelmy
  • Patent number: 5123173
    Abstract: Checking apparatus comprising a support (1); sensing means (19; 71) adapted to provide signals depending on the features of the checked parts (3) with reference means (41, 42; 70) adapted to cooperate with the parts; and connection means (30; 66; 93) with resiliently deformable portions (34, 35; 69, 69' . . . ; 94, 94', . . . ) for connecting the sensing means to the support and enabling the reference means to properly cooperate with the parts through substantially rotary displacements about parallel geometric axes. In order to diminish the influence of plays and frictions and enable checkings--possibly combined checkings--featuring high accuracy and repeatability, the connection means comprise an element (30; 66; 93) having two legs (31, 33; 67, 68; 93), the element being substantially rigid, apart from a plurality of integral zones having reduced thickness, that define said resiliently deformable portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Marposs Societa' per Azioni
    Inventor: Mario Possati, deceased
  • Patent number: 5060536
    Abstract: A bicycle crank has flexible crank arms designed to deflect elastically under the influence of force on the pedals, allowing the point of application of force to advance relative to the rotational position of the sprocket device. In a preferred embodiment the crank arms are made of glass fiber-reinforced epoxy, and have a generally rectangular cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Donald R. Boys
  • Patent number: 4997037
    Abstract: A downhole chock absorber reduces or eliminates fluid and gas pound in a pumping system employing a well pump mounted at the bottom of a sucker rod string. A substantially cylindrical coupling has coaxial, internally threaded upper and lower segments. The lower segment is screwable onto a complementary, externally threaded, upper end of a member of the sucker rod string. A shaft with a complementary externally threaded lower end is screwed into the internally threaded upper segment of the coupling. A plurality of diametric holes are vertically displaced and sequentially, circumferentially offset along the upper portion of the shaft. A spring slidably, coaxially disposed on the shaft below the holes is seated on the coupling. The spring has an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the coupling to reduce the possiblity of the spring wearing against the pump system production line tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Hughes A. Coston
  • Patent number: 4848171
    Abstract: Device for converting the rotary motion of an eccentric driven by a motor shaft into an oscillating motion of a working tool in electrically powered appliances, consisting of a double-armed rocker arm and a connecting rod connecting the rocker arm with the eccentric, as well as a single articulation at whose articulation midpoint all the motion axes of the connecting rod and rocker arm meet directly or indirectly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wilfridus Steijger, Michael Odemer, Otto Schweingruber, Jochen Cimbal
  • Patent number: 4841801
    Abstract: A connecting rod interconnects first and second structures. The connecting rod includes first and second connectors for attachment to the first and second structures. A core is located between the connectors so that the connectors are at opposite ends of the core. A tubular member for resisting movement of the structures toward one another has a plurality of parallel fibers which are disposed about the outer periphery of the core and which extend between opposite ends of the core. A strap extends along the tubular member and around the connectors to form a closed loop for resisting movement of the structures away from one another. Locator caps are disposed between each connector and the tubular member for transmitting force therebetween and for restraining separation of the end portions of the fibers of the tubular member outwardly from the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Tice
  • Patent number: 4836497
    Abstract: A valve actuator mechanism for supplying a selectively adjustable close-off force to an associated valve. The mechanism comprises a means for urging the valve plunger into engagement with the valve seat with a predetermined initial force and resistive means for generating a resistive force such that the close-off force is less than the initial by a predetermined amount. The resistive force can be selectively adjusted also.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Assignee: Johnson Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles F. Beeson
  • Patent number: 4813305
    Abstract: A collapsible segment for a drive train, preferably a collapsible actuator arm for a vertical door opening mechanism, such as that for a garage door. The actuator arm comprises two primary components, first and second arms which are aligned with one end of one arm pivotally engaging one end of the other arm. A spring under tension extends between the arms on one side of the pivotal connection of the arms in order to normally retain the arms in alignment. The arms are formed such that they cannot pivot toward the spring. The arms are attached to the garage door mechanism at appropriate locations at opposite ends of the arms, with at least one of the attachment locations being offset from the arms on the other side of the pivotal connection such that when compressive force is applied to the arms, and when the force of the spring has been overcome, the arms are urged to pivot about the pivotal connection away from the spring, thus collapsing the actuator mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1989
    Assignee: Triodyne, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Dilich
  • Patent number: 4802382
    Abstract: A connecting rod for reciprocally driving a piston within a cylinder wherein the piston rod includes upper and lower portions which are connected by an area of thinner dimension which is also yieldable so as to permit the lower end of the connecting rod to assume varying angular orientations with respect to the upper end thereof and wherein the lower end of the rod includes a bearing surface which is cooperatively received so as to be driven by the end of an operating lever by way of which motion is imparted to the connecting rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1989
    Assignee: Societe Berthoud S.A.
    Inventor: Robert Nissels
  • Patent number: 4777844
    Abstract: A compression linkage is disclosed for use between a first swivel pin having a first thermal expansion characteristic and a second swivel pin of a second and differing thermal expansion characteristic, comprising: (a) a first shaft comprised of substantially the same material as the first pin and having a mateable end and another end adapted for swivel connection to said first pin; (b) a second shaft comprised of substantially the same material as the second pin and having a mateable end and another end adapted for swivel connection to said second pin; and (c) means providing a rigid compression joint between the mateable ends of said first and second shafts. Preferably, the first pin is adapted to operate in a high temperature environment, such as 400.degree.-500.degree. F., and is comprised of a ceramic effective to have a flexural strength of at least 100,000 psi (500 MPa) in such temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: George C. DeBell, Edwin J. Ounsted
  • Patent number: 4757681
    Abstract: This invention relates to a chain link plate which is constructed by a high tensile strength fiber which is wound around between two pivot points and which is fixed to each other by adhesive material. The link plate is improved in strength and decreased in weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1988
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Kazumasa Matsuno, Takashi Tsujimoto, Takerou Nakagawa, Yasumasa Tubakimoto, Makoto Kanehira
  • Patent number: 4736487
    Abstract: A force responsive, variable length push rod for connecting the motor and windshield blade of a windshield wiper unit. The variable response push rod includes a pair of members connected at one end to the motor and windshield blades respectfully and overlapped at the other end. Each member includes a plurality of lobes extending to the area between the opposed members and an elastomer adheres to the lobes and fills space between the plurality of lobes to form push rod. Interdigitized lobes and elastomer define the force characteristics of the push rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Anton Epple, Hans Trube, Martin Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 4712445
    Abstract: An adjusting device for a tractor trailing hitch link provides for adjusting telescoping link from within the cab of the tractor through a shaft connection and permits locking the telescoping link in its adjusted position while isolating the shaft connection from forces imposed on the trailing hitch link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Charles A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 4694678
    Abstract: Each tie-rod bar or beam from which tie-rod assemblies for large forging presses are assembled is constructed of a middle section made of a lower yield strength alloy steel to which end sections made of steel alloy having comparatively higher yield strengths are welded. A link pin hole is formed in each end section for receiving a link bolt intended for securing a plurality of the tie-rod bars to one another and/or to the frame of the forging press. The end section may be slightly wider to more easily withstand the larger stresses developed there during operations of the press. In one preferred adaptation, the material of the middle section is designed for a minimum of 45,000 psi and the end section for a minimum of 80,000 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: Press Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Alexander Zeitlin, Adam Zandel
  • Patent number: 4691590
    Abstract: A connecting rod for reciprocating piston machines having piston pin and crankshaft ring portions with bores therein connected together by a load bearing member. The load bearing member has voids within it adjoining the outer perimeters of the piston pin and crankshaft ring portions. When press-fitting a liner or cup bearing within the ring portion bores, the voids allow the piston pin and crankshaft ring portions to expand radially uniformly at the connection between the ring portions and the load bearing member such that the liner and bearing retain a substantially circular shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1987
    Assignee: Tecumseh Products Company
    Inventors: Miles S. Geringer, Vernon R. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 4669322
    Abstract: In a device for converting the rotary motion of an eccentric driven by a motor shaft into a reciprocating motion of a working tool coupled with a shaft pin in electrically powered appliances, in whose housing a double-armed rocker arm connected to the shaft pin is pivotably mounted, an oscillating body is provided for conversion of motion between the rocker arm and the eccentric, said body consisting of at least one flexible stud or a stud provided with a film hinge, and a connecting rod with a connecting rod head running at least partially parallel to this stud and comprising a film hinge, whereby the head of the connecting rod is connected to the eccentric and the stud is rigidly attached to the rocker arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1987
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Werner Messinger, Karl Trolltsch
  • Patent number: 4649762
    Abstract: Device for converting the rotary motion of an eccentric driven by a motor shaft into an oscillating motion of a working tool in electrically powered appliances, consisting of a double-armed rocker arm and an oscillating body, connecting the rocker arm with the eccentric, composed of three connecting arms, two of which are assembled into a frame-like structure by appropriate design, whereby the eccentric engages one meeting point and the third connecting arm engages the other meeting point, said third arm being rigidly connected with one lever arm of the double-armed rocker arm. The connecting arms are each provided with a film hinge, of which two hinges lie on a common middle/bending axis which intersects the lengthwise axis of the double-armed rocker arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1987
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Werner Messinger, Karl Trolltsch