Miscellaneous Patents (Class 410/156)
  • Patent number: 11149408
    Abstract: A motor grader is disclosed. The motor grader may include an articulated implement. The motor grader may include an articulation control device. The articulation control device may be configured to determine that articulation motion of the articulated implement is occurring, for a threshold amount of time, in a second direction that is different from a first direction indicated by an articulation control command. The articulation control device may be configured to perform a response action based on determining that articulation motion of the articulated implement is occurring, for the threshold amount of time, in the second direction that is different from the first direction indicated by the articulation control command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Amit Sharma
  • Patent number: 10851635
    Abstract: An electric driven hydraulic fracking system is disclosed. A pump configuration that includes the single VFD, the single shaft electric motor, and the single hydraulic pump that is mounted on the single pump trailer. The single VFD converts the electric power of at least 13.8 kV to a VFD rated voltage level of at least 4160V and drives the single shaft electric motor at the VFD voltage level of up to 4160V to control the operation of the single shaft electric motor and the single hydraulic pump. The single shaft electric motor drives the single hydraulic pump with the rotation at the rated RPM level of at least 750 RPM. The single hydraulic pump continuously pumps the fracking media into the well at the HP level of at least 5000 HP. The single hydraulic pump operates on a continuous duty cycle to continuously pump the fracking media at the HP level of at least 5000 HP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: National Service Alliance—Houston LLC
    Inventors: John Fischer, John J. Crosetto, David Kubricht, Richard Cheatham, Jeffrey Pollack, Chad Lawman, David Todd, Tyler Nolen
  • Patent number: 10816040
    Abstract: A coupling system for a machine assembly and a base is provided. The machine assembly includes a frame and a gib key extending outwardly from the frame. The coupling system includes at least one u-bracket configured to couple to the gib key such that said at least one u-bracket cooperates with the gib key to define a tenon pin opening. The at least one u-bracket is sized and shaped to be received in a clearance fit in a key channel defined in the base. The coupling system also includes a tenon pin sized and shaped to be received in the tenon pin opening such that the tenon pin couples the base to the gib key, and such that forces exerted on the received tenon pin parallel to a first direction are substantially in tension between the machine assembly and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Nicholas Demianovich, Tomasz Maranski, Jakub Milosz Putowski, Piotr Krzysztof Dzieciol, Przemyslaw Michal Jakubczak
  • Patent number: 10337402
    Abstract: A system a first mobile body configured to support a turbine engine and an auxiliary skid communicatively and fluidly coupled to the turbine engine. The auxiliary skid includes one or more interconnects configured to support a turbine engine component. The system also includes a second mobile body configured to support a generator. The first and second mobile bodies are configured to align a removable coupling between the turbine engine and the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kenneth Robert Austin, Vineet Sethi, Raymond Kalok Fong, Jose Emmanuel Guillen, Robert Allen Baten, Donald Gordon Laing
  • Patent number: 10059249
    Abstract: An assembly for securing machinery such as a gas turbine on a deck includes a first block unit configured to restrict vertical displacement of the machinery relative to the deck, and a second block unit configured to restrict axial and lateral displacement of the machinery. The first block unit includes a base block securable to the deck and an attachment block secured to the base block. The second block unit is engageable with the machinery base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Likhith Reddy Asani, Dinesh Venugopal Setty, Jeffrey Patrick Mills
  • Publication number: 20150034795
    Abstract: The present invention provides a suspension and vibration isolation system having cable isolators. The cable isolators employ low-friction air-bearing pneumatic cylinders and cables to isolate a suspended payload from vibrations of a carrier or to isolate the carrier from vibrations of the payload. Using such air-lubricated cylinder to piston interfaces virtually eliminates static friction and so improves the effectiveness of the isolation for small forces and displacement. The use of pneumatic cylinders also permits the system to be tuned to the required resonance frequency to isolate the payload from vibrations in a desired frequency band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Vale S.A.
    Inventor: Benjamin David POLZER
  • Publication number: 20140377029
    Abstract: The present invention provides a securement mat for mitigating the migration of loads within a shipping vessel. The securement mat having a length, a width, and a height, and including a first subsection and a second subsection, wherein an area of the second subsection is less than an area of the first subsection. The securement mat has a first fold boundary along the length or width of the sheet and proximate to one edge of the sheet defining a boundary between the first and second subsection, wherein the first subsection exhibits a first incline by folding, along the first fold boundary, the second subsection underneath the first subsection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: Arthur B. DODGE, III
  • Patent number: 8757942
    Abstract: A seal head used on a side beam of a vehicle carrier includes a main plane covering the front surface of the side beam, a side plane connected to the main plane to cover the inclined surface of the side beam, a first baffle plane and a second baffle plane covering the edges of the side beam, and the main plane, side plane, first baffle plane and second baffle plane form a semi-enclosed cavity for receiving the side beam. The baffle planes can be fixed against the corresponding edges of the side beam to achieve reliable fixed positions and connections, increasing the shock resistance rigidity and strength of the front surface of the side beam and easy installation and disassembly for seal head. The main plane, the side plane and the baffle plane are in an integrally molded piece to improve the rigidity and strength of side beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Ningbo Bangda Intelligent Parking System Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jianhua Zhu
  • Patent number: 8719183
    Abstract: A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: John A. Olsen, III, Mark J. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8506220
    Abstract: A sensing device 26 is attached to a tensioned strap 20 holding a load on a vehicle. A probe 44 engages the strap 20 and causes a signal lamp 28 to light up if the tension in the strap 20 is below a predetermined threshold value. The sensing device 26 helps the vehicle operator to set the tension correctly before a journey and also provides a visible warning if a strap becomes loose during the journey. The warning is visible beyond the vehicle, to alert other road users to a possible hazard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Express Hire (Dorset) Limited
    Inventor: Anthony Morland
  • Patent number: 8407152
    Abstract: A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventors: John A. Olsen, III, Mark J. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8380640
    Abstract: A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: John A. Olsen, III, Mark J. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8348587
    Abstract: A motor vehicle having an assembly for loading sheet material includes a cargo area having a loading opening and a bulkhead located at an opposite end of the cargo area from the loading opening. Also included is a passenger compartment located at a forward region of the vehicle. Further included is at least one fixed end stop located proximate a rear area of the cargo area. Yet further included is at least one load assist strip, where a first end of the strip is mounted to the bulkhead, wherein the strip extends rearward to a second end of the strip that is mounted to the end stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Steve David Fleming, John K. Harding, Jonathan M. Fisher, Alicia Agius
  • Publication number: 20100166520
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an intelligent logistics goods binding system in the field of control technology. The problems of the conventional intelligent logistics goods binding systems, such as inconvenience in operation of the intelligent logistics goods binding system, low operation efficiency and complicated adjusting of control parameters, are addressed by the system of the invention. The intelligent logistics goods binding system of the invention includes an upper controller and a lower controller connected thereto. A sensor and a power mechanism are connected to the lower controller, which are respectively provided on the pay-out and take-up device. An upper input means is connected with the upper controller and a lower input means is connected to the lower controller. The activation or deactivation of the power mechanism is controlled by the upper controller through the lower controller or directly controlled by the lower controller based on the pressure signal of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Buqin Ruan
  • Patent number: 7731459
    Abstract: A transportation container includes an upper section having a plurality of sidewalls defining a space dimensioned to receive oversized cargo for transport and a base section adapted to mate with a standardized interface of a transportation vehicle for supporting the upper section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: BNSF Railway Company
    Inventor: Warren J. Bell
  • Publication number: 20100028100
    Abstract: An apparatus for unrolling a coil of flexible material such as wire, cable, strap, belt, rope and other such tie-down material directionally and accurately. The apparatus includes a cradle being arcuate in shape and a handle. The bed of the cradle is capable of holding and supporting coiled tie-down material typically used in the transport industry to secure cargo. A method for using the same is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: TNT DIVERSIFIED, LLC
    Inventor: Tracy Eugene Lampman
  • Patent number: 7637558
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a system and method for providing reinforcement in the form of strength and/or moisture protection at discrete locations along the bottom of a wooden cargo-carrying floor, which reduces the cost associated with such manufacture and provides at least equal if not better results. The cargo-carrying floor surface reinforcing system for a cargo-carrying body, such as transport vehicle or transport container, comprises a flooring section and at least one region having a predetermined area smaller than an area of said bottom surface of said flooring section. The flooring section is comprised of a plurality of wood boards having a top surface, a bottom surface, first and second side surfaces arranged side by side, the boards in turn being comprised of strips of wood joined end-to-end and side-to-side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Société en Commandite Prolam
    Inventor: Benoit Risi
  • Publication number: 20090297287
    Abstract: Transportation of articles such as gas turbine engines can be problematic in view of their size. Traditionally, articles such as gas turbine engines are transported on cradles associated with platforms and bases. It would be desirable to enable manipulation of height and width to allow the assembly of the article, such as a gas turbine engine upon the base to enter apertures such as doors in aircraft fuselages or for minimising width for road or rail or sea transportation. By providing a cradle, having respective cradle sides projecting from a junction in association with a drive mechanism and each side of the cradle coupled to a pivot arm, control of rotation paths can be achieved. Thus, an article such as a gas turbine engine secured to a cradle arrangement can be manipulated between extremes and alternate configurations, defined by rotation paths, through elective association of one or the other of the pivot arms to the cradle and the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Peter M. Entwistle
  • Patent number: 7566194
    Abstract: A ratcheting apparatus for engaging the winch driver of a winch used for tightening cargo straps, providing secure temporary engagement, with substantial leverage for turning the winch. The apparatus comprises a handle that removably inserts into the two sleeves of the apparatus. The teeth of the sleeves are arranged such that loosening motion allows the teeth of the respective sleeves to slip, one against the other, where winch tightening motion causes the teeth to engage and tighten a cargo strap. The spring of the rod of the apparatus provides correct tension between the two sleeves. A hardened leverage bar turns the apparatus. The apparatus is preferably made of metal or metal alloy, although more exotic polymers and matrixes may be used in construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventors: Lesley A. Gray, Paul L. Baker
  • Patent number: 7507062
    Abstract: A Container for the storage and transportation a radome displays a flat base on which the flat wall of said radome rests and a detachable lid that can be immobilized on the periphery of the base. The base consists of a plate of rectangular shape, two of whose diagonally opposite corners are truncated. The cover has a peripheral lower wall of vertical configuration whose outline conforms to the contour of the base and an upper wall curving inward near the top of the radome, the peripheral lower and upper walls being connected on each face corresponding to a side of the rectangle by at least one sloping side curving inward in the immediate proximity of the radome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Societe Air France
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Pasty
  • Patent number: 7410336
    Abstract: The tool for rewinding winch belts has a C-shaped member having a pair of parallel arms, a transverse portion joining the arms, and a shaft extending from the transverse portion away from the arms along a rotational axis thereof. Each arm has a boss protruding therefrom, with both bosses protruding toward each other along a working axis. One of the bosses has an inclined end defining a straight side facing a working direction and an inclined surface facing a releasing direction. In another aspect, a clevis and a pin extending through a diameter of the shaft define an articulation axis of the tool, extending at right angle from the working axis and the rotational axis. The articulation of the pin and the articulation of the bosses in the holes through the socket of a winch jointly define an universal joint along the tool's rotational axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Parks
  • Patent number: 7393031
    Abstract: A strap launcher (10) has a coil retainer (20) disposed at one end of a longitudinally-extending pole handle (16). Coil retainer (20) is configured to retain a coil (34a) of cargo strap (34) with the distal end of cargo strap (34) free and the other, proximal end (34b) of cargo strap (34) removably secured to the coil retainer (20). Strap launcher (10) is then used to launch the cargo strap (34) over a tall or stacked cargo (40) to dispose the distal end of cargo strap (34) on the far side of the cargo (40). The pole launcher (10) is then lowered to facilitate removal of the proximal end of the cargo strap (34) from the coil retainer (20). Both ends of cargo strap (34) are then secured to the truck bed in the known manner. Accessories such a corner handler (12), used to put corner protectors (42) in place, and a broom head (14), may be attached to the proximal end (16d) of pole handle (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Hector Goulet
  • Patent number: 7357612
    Abstract: The invention is a strap rolling device that provides the end user with the capability of winding long cargo straps either manually or with an electric drill. An end of the tool has a shape that accommodates the chucks of most electric drills. Should no electric drill be available, the end user can manually crank the winch and wind up the long cargo straps with the handle, which is integrated into the body of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Walter C. Paul
  • Publication number: 20070292230
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a cargo guard that is readily coupled to and/or removed from a binding strap, and further readily adapted to be repositioned with respect to the strap. The cargo guard may include one or more segments and/or one or more retainers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Applicant: BURNS BROS., INC.
    Inventor: Gary M. Scott
  • Patent number: 7278808
    Abstract: A driver for rewinding a cargo winch strap includes a cordless drill and an adapter. The adapter fits into the chuck of the drill and has two movable jaws. The jaws close onto and grip the collar of the cargo winch as soon as the drill is placed into reverse and open to release the collar as soon as the direction of the drill is changed from reverse to forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventors: Glenn Lewis Sisk, Sr., Glenn Lewis Sisk, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7234905
    Abstract: An apparatus for attaching a hitch to a vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes a pin rotatably mountable to the hitch and having a handle for rotating the pin. A receptacle formed in the vehicle receives the pin. A locking site defined by a channel is formed in one of the pin and the receptacle. The channel extends about a longitudinal axis of the one of the pin and the receptacle. A bypass portion intersects the channel and extends longitudinally from the channel to an end of the one of the pin and the receptacle. A protrusion is formed on the other of the receptacle and the pin. The bypass portion permits insertion of the pin into the receptacle to align the locking site and the protrusion such that rotation of the pin lockably engages the protrusion in the locking site to attach the hitch to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Victoria Industries Limited
    Inventor: K. Jeffrey Warnock
  • Publication number: 20070140808
    Abstract: A multi-functional car-top carrier device is provided herein. The car-top carrier device mainly contains a pair of railing member, each having a number of end-to-end rails. The inner rails support a number of base boards for storage and sleeping. The top rails support a number of foldable posts for raising a top board and mosquito nets. The outer rails support bicycle support members which can be pulled out and slanted on the ground for the easy loading and unloading of bicycles. A foldable ladder is attached to a bicycle support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Inventor: Yi-Fan Peng
  • Patent number: 7112022
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for restraining an individual in the cargo area of a vehicle. Such restraints can be utilized to protect medical technicians in ambulances, fire rescue trucks and other emergency vehicles. The apparatus is constructed so that the user can control the amount of restraint on his various body movements while he medically treats a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Toh K. Meng
  • Patent number: 7112023
    Abstract: Tension alert device is attached between opposing ends of a securing member attached to a load bed to secure a load thereupon. The device has a strip with a curved portion, which is resiliently movable towards a proximity sensor disposed on a wall in device. When tension in securing member decreases, proximity of curved portion relative wall decreases. When curved portion enters a proximity actuation state relative first wall corresponding to a low tension state where tension is below a tension threshold level, a proximity sensor actuates a signaling device which alerts a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Maurice Tardif
  • Patent number: 7004697
    Abstract: A load handling mechanism for use with loaded tankers has two transverse attachment members associated with longitudinal beams supporting the tank structure. Cables and associated spreader bars are attached to the transverse attachment members to provide a single lift point loading means for the tanker allowing loaded tankers to be easily loaded and unloaded in to transport means such as ships.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Adam Alaweih
  • Patent number: 6916143
    Abstract: A speed handle for use in combination with a strap winch on a flat bed trailer. The straps used to secure loads on trailers can be 30 to 40 feet in length. There is no good way to wind these straps onto their winch when they are not in use. Currently the job is done by hand which is very slow and tedious. The speed handle engages a lug of the winch and allows the strap to be wound back onto the winch very quickly. The speed handle allows the winding to occur with only one hand so that another hand is free to guide the strap onto the winch drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Marty Guenther
  • Publication number: 20040259961
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a primarily nitrogen containing blanketing agent from the air separation unit of a Gas To Liquids, Heavy Hydrocarbon Conversion, or Methanol Synthesis Facility on transport vessels. The primarily nitrogen containing blanketing agent is used to reduce corrosion, reduce product biodegradation and oxidation, control invasive species, and prevent fires and explosions by reducing oxygen content. Accordingly, the present invention relates to integrated processes for producing hydrocarbonaceous products and using a primarily nitrogen containing blanketing agent supplied from the process in shipping the products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis J. O'Rear
  • Publication number: 20020165410
    Abstract: A method of transporting and/or storing pure acrylic acid comprises ensuring by means of appropriate measures that the pure acrylic acid is partly crystalline during the entire duration of transport and/or storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Applicant: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Heinrich Aichinger, Gerhard Nestler, Paul Leon Kageler
  • Patent number: 6419431
    Abstract: A combine header transport may be rapidly and easily adjusted to support a wide variety of kinds and shapes of headers for transport. The transport includes an inclined bracket having a slotted sloped surface. A rail having a plate affixed thereto overlies the sloped surface and a second plate underlies the sloped surface. The underlying plate has an offset at one end which receives a first coupling to the overlying plate, and a second hooked coupling couples the other ends of the plates together. When the second coupling is relaxed, the rail may be readily slid along the sloped surface to effect rapid and simultaneous adjustment of the rail in both the transverse horizontal direction and in vertical elevation, and the adjustment may be accomplished without a wrench or other tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: E-Z Trail, Inc.
    Inventor: Abe B. Kuhns
  • Patent number: 6398470
    Abstract: A strap winding tool includes a bent metal bar with a short elbow which can fit into a borehole opening in a ratchet extension on a strap winder on a flat bed trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Strap Buddy Tool Manufacturing, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Roger G. Mosley
  • Patent number: 6334746
    Abstract: A trailer mounts a turbine and a generator for transport to a power generation site. The mount for the turbine includes a sub-base mounted for pivotal movement adjacent a rear end thereof proximate the forward end of the generator. The forward end of the sub-base is secured to the trailer by an isolator mount. The two mounts constitute a 3-point mounting system for the sub-base and turbine carried thereby whereby during transport, the sub-base and turbine are enabled for limited angular deflection of the turbine axis relative to the generator rotor axis. The pivotal mounting adjacent the interconnection between the turbine and generator rotors lies along discrete opposite sides of the trailer. Torque is transmitted from the turbine to the generator base through the pivotal mountings. At the power generation site, the sub-base is locked down and minimal adjustment is required to align the turbine and generator rotors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Tho Vankhanh Nguyen, Robert Allen Baten
  • Patent number: 6322302
    Abstract: An improved snap buckle tool for opening and closing a snap buckle of the type used in combination with a flexible strap member to adjust the tension thereof is disclosed. The snap buckle tool comprises an elongated handle member integrally formed with a generally C-shaped head member. An elongated slot divides the terminal end of the head member into a pair of parallel tines which engage a snap buckle to alternately manipulate the snap buckle from a closed condition to an open condition to adjust the tension of the strap. The slot is disposed at a predetermined angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the handle member to facilitate use of the tool against a surface of a shipping container to gain a mechanical advantage in opening and closing the snap buckle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas E. Horton
  • Patent number: 6139233
    Abstract: A rapid spooling/tightening binding device includes a uniquely designed winch winder mechanism having a rotatable shaft substantially aligned with the center axis of the winch and which is couplable to a drill to rapidly spool the binding strap about a strap spooling reel. In the preferred embodiment, the drill is a cordless drill. The winch winder mechanism is removably coupled to the winch for use with other binding devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: James T. Wilsey
  • Patent number: 6102637
    Abstract: A winding tool for a winch is disclosed. The winch is used on flatbed trailers to hold webbing used to strap down loads on the trailer. The winding tool is designed to use the winch bar interface on currently available winches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph Mocci
  • Patent number: 6056488
    Abstract: A locking winch bar having a locking mechanism for securing the winch bar in a winch sprocket so that the bar does not accidentally exit the sprocket. The winch bar has an elongated shaft with a grasping end and a tapering bend at the other end. The shaft includes a groove located at the tapering bend, and within the groove is position a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a lock member having a pawl element at one end and a trigger at the other end. The other end of the lock member is pivotally secured within the groove by a pivot pin, and a spring member is positioned within the groove to act upon the lock member by biasing it outwardly, from the groove. A retaining member secured to the shaft across the groove limits the outward extent of the lock member. Upon pressing the trigger, the lock member is forced into the groove against the action of the spring member, which thereby causes the pawl element to become recessed within the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Carl R. Depoy
  • Patent number: 5947665
    Abstract: Hauling vehicles, fixtures and methods for loading heavy cargo are provided. The fixture enables such cargo to be loaded on a trailer, boat or railway with a reduced "effective width". Such fixtures include a support frame and an arm which may be pivotally mounted to the support frame for enabling the cargo to be tilted from a first loading position to a second transporting position to reduce the degree to which the cargo extends beyond the width of the trailer. A plurality of perpendicular members extend from positions near the ends of the arm. Each perpendicular member has a rotating boot near an end opposite the arm. The rotating boot is shaped to contact and support an internal corner of the cargo, which may be a concrete double-tee. Transportation costs are significantly reduced through the use of the fixture, vehicle and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: High Concrete Structures
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Baur, Kathleen M. Scholz, William L. Whary, Rand Henry
  • Patent number: 5909989
    Abstract: Hauling vehicles, fixtures and methods for loading heavy cargo are provided by this invention. The fixture enables such cargo to be loaded on a trailer, boat or railway with a minimum "effective width". Such fixtures include a support frame and an arm swively mounted to the support frame for enabling the cargo to be tilted from a first loading position to a second transporting position to reduce the degree to which the cargo extends beyond the width of the trailer. Transportation costs are significantly reduced through the use of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: High Concrete Structures, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Baur, Kathleen M. Scholz, William L. Whary, Rand Henry
  • Patent number: 5785472
    Abstract: A transport wagon includes convertible support brackets for alternatively carrying different pieces of farm equipment, such as a grain platform or a corn header. Each convertible support bracket has a first support member pivotally connected to a second support member. The first support member has a support surface and can move between a first position for supporting part of an article to be carried and a second position for allowing the second support member, which has a support surface, to support part of a different article to be carried. The brackets can be slidably mounted on the frame of the transport cart. The brackets can be moved to one position for transporting a first article such as a grain platform. The brackets also can be moved to a second position for transporting a second article such as a corn header.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Unverferth Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Smith, William C. Maenle, Dennis J. Turnwald
  • Patent number: 5697741
    Abstract: A safety chain storage pocket for use with a tow truck comprises a user access surface with a gull wing opening defining a chain access opening providing safety chain exit and storage from and to the pocket. A pair of slotted wings extend from the opening to provide a pair of chain locking positions. The opening has a lower surface providing free movement of the safety chain out of the pocket by allowing the weight of the chain to assist the user to pull the chain out of the pocket, and the chain access opening allows the user vertical access into the pocket to use the weight of the chain to store the chain in the pocket. The slotted wings extend proximate to the chain access opening to provide a locking position for said safety chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Jerr-Dan Corporation
    Inventors: Steven C. Harris, Christopher N. Goetz
  • Patent number: 5683213
    Abstract: Hauling vehicles, fixtures and methods for loading heavy cargo are provided by this invention. The fixture enables such cargo to be loaded on a trailer, boat or railway with a minimum "effective width". Such fixtures include a support frame and an arm swivelly mounted to the support frame for enabling the cargo to be tilted from a first loading position to a second transporting position to reduce the degree to which the cargo extends beyond the width of the trailer. Transportation costs are significantly reduced through the use of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: High Concrete Structures, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Baur, Kathleen M. Scholz, William L. Whary, Rand Henry
  • Patent number: 5636952
    Abstract: A cargo blocker is disclosed for preventing displacement of palletized cargo in a moving vehicle. The cargo blocker includes a footplate adapted to be received under one edge of a loaded cargo pallet and a resilient brace attached to and extending generally upwardly from the footplate. The brace and the footplate form, in an unstressed condition, an acute angle of slightly less than 90.degree.. When the footplate is confined under a loaded cargo pallet, the vertical brace will be flexed with respect to the footplate. The resulting torque will exert a compressive force on the cargo contained on the pallet, to prevent dislodgement of the cargo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: H. E. Butt Grocery Company
    Inventor: Mark G. Richardson
  • Patent number: 5584623
    Abstract: Corner edge protectors for lading tied down by a cable running over a corner edge of the lading. The protector may be formed of rigid or lightweight, distortable, shape-resuming semi-rigid durable plastic such as polyurethane. The protector is L-shaped and relatively wide so as to provide a substantial lading-engaging surface area. One of the legs of the protector, usually the vertical leg when installed, has an integrally formed cable-retaining hook-shaped tab formation which is yieldable to allow entry and exit of a tie down cable. The other leg, usually the horizontal leg when installed, may have a cushion formation into which a taut cable sinks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Ireco, Inc.
    Inventor: Rudolph E. Nadherny
  • Patent number: 5549429
    Abstract: A tool for manipulating a ratcheted strap-tightening mechanism such as those associated with cargo securing harnesses. The tool comprises a handle having at a first end a socket adapted to engage the lever of the ratcheting mechanism, and, at an opposite second end, a tongue adapted to unlock the ratcheting mechanism. The socket defines a tapering channel that can accommodate a variety of levers of different shapes and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Delores A. Sergent
  • Patent number: 5529447
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting a grain combine header and a row crop header of an agricultural harvesting implement having bolsters connected to wheels and a longitudinal tube extended between and connected to the bolsters. A longitudinal head rest extends between and is located above the bolsters. Swing arm assemblies mounted on the bolsters support the head rest for movement from an up position to a down position. Holders mounted on the tube are adapted to engage a portion of the header when the header is located on the head rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: May-Wes Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Bruns, Wesley W. Bruns
  • Patent number: 5466104
    Abstract: A new and improved cargo cushioning apparatus includes a plurality of selectively inflatable and deflatable air bags. Each air bag includes an air inlet, an air outlet, and a pressurized air supply assembly for inflating the air bags. The air inlet and the air outlet are in a combined air inlet/outlet. The pressurized air supply assembly includes a connector assembly for connecting to a source of pressurized air. A supply of a length of air hose is connected to the air supply connector assembly. An air dispensing valve is connected to the air hose. The air dispensing valve is adapted for connection to the respective air inlets on the respective air bags. A storage drum assembly may be employed for selectively storing and paying out a quantity of the air hose. The storage drum assembly is mounted on a truck. A storage container stores a plurality of the air bags when they are deflated. The storage container is installed in a cargo container, e.g. a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: Millard E. Gatwood