Spacer Patents (Class 411/546)
  • Patent number: 11898593
    Abstract: A multipart adjustment element for a tolerance compensation arrangement for automatically compensating for tolerances in the spacing between a first and a second component. The adjustment element comprises a bush, a dragging element, a contact disc, and a securing sleeve. The bush has a bore, an outer thread with a first direction, and a step. The dragging element comprises at least one spring arm protruding radially inwards, wherein a first axial end of the dragging element is arranged on the step in the threaded bush. The contact disc is arranged adjacently to the first axial end of the threaded bush and has a through-opening. The securing sleeve likewise has a through-opening and is arranged at least partly in the bore of the threaded bush with a press-fit connection in order to securely connect the contact disc, the threaded bush, and the dragging element together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Ulrich Figge
  • Patent number: 11866914
    Abstract: A retainer sleeve includes an at least partially annular body defining an axis of rotation, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The body may also have a radially inner annular surface defining a radially inner aperture, and a first anti-rotation feature extending radially inwardly from the radially inner annular surface including a sloping ledge having a locking surface, and an outer peripheral surface defining a notch that is at least partially aligned with the first anti-rotation feature or an array of a plurality of external ribs extending outwardly radially from the outer peripheral surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Serrurier, Eric T. Sinn, Jason Grant Jura
  • Patent number: 11767771
    Abstract: A bracket for mounting a first component to a second component, the bracket comprising at least one mounting boss defining a through-hole having an opening axis in axial direction for receiving a fixing used to attach the bracket to one of the first and second components; wherein the mounting boss comprises a fixing support face around the through-hole on a surface of the bracket, the fixing support face configured to bear a head of the fixing; the mounting boss is configured to resist compressive forces exerted on the bracket by the head of the fixing; and the mounting boss comprises a cavity in a space projected from the fixing support face in the axial direction of the through-hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce plc
    Inventors: Jaideep Y. Thar, Oliver C. Taylor-Tibbott, Andrea L. Ball
  • Patent number: 11598127
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle body assembly structure allowing a distance between a vehicle body and a part to be adjusted in any of left-right, front-rear, and up-down directions with a simple structure such as a screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Woobo Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hae Il Jeong
  • Patent number: 11499579
    Abstract: A structure for fastening vehicle components with adjustable steps includes a weld nut configured to be fixed to a vehicle floor panel, an inner bolt positioned above and fixedly inserted into the weld nut, and an assembly bolt inserted through the inner bolt and fastened to one end of the weld nut, wherein the inner bolt is configured to move in a height direction for step adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Hong Soek Yoen, Jai Hak Kim, Won Gun Kim
  • Patent number: 11371544
    Abstract: A fastener system that includes a fastener, a compression-limiting sleeve, and a retainer which generally retains the compression-limiting sleeve on the fastener. By providing that the compression-limiting sleeve is not staked to the fastener, existing technology can be used, and no extra staking processing step needs to be performed. The fastener may comprise a conventional metal threaded screw or bolt, possibly having a recess in its head for receiving a driver. Preferably, the compression-limiting sleeve is cold headed as opposed to being stamped, and preferably includes a counter bore which assures that an end of the retainer is below an end surface of the compression-limiting sleeve. Preferably, the retainer is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer or another suitable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Jeramiah Slater, Robert A. Niec, Paul Purdy, Gary Sifferman
  • Patent number: 10926810
    Abstract: The fastening device includes a nut (1) and a screw (2) coupled by being screwed together, the screw (2) being movable with respect to the nut (1), wherein the screw (2) comprises a head (3) provided with a washer (4) able to tilt in any adjustment direction, the axis of the washer (4) able to move within an angle by tilting with respect to the axis of the screw (2). A fastening method includes the steps of vertically introducing the fastening device in a polygonal hole until a seal (6) butts against the roof of the vehicle, and rotating the device in a counterclockwise direction until it butts against the same. The fastening device allows a function of adjustment to be carried out and compensates for the lack of parallelism and tolerance between the fastened accessory and the body of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: ITW METAL FASTENERS, S.L.
    Inventor: Jaume Arisa Busquets
  • Patent number: 10077796
    Abstract: A section of a folding spacer apparatus for ensuring precise spatial increments when stacking segments of the spacer apparatus having at least two identical segments of equal thickness equal to an incremental measurement frequently utilized in the construction industry joined by a thin and pliable length of material enabling the bottom surface of a first segment to be flush with the top surface of a second segment when the segments are stacked. The segments are made without corners. In addition, the segments feature a system whereby the two segments may be snapped to one another when stacked. Specifically, first segment features at least one protrusion extending perpendicularly from its top surface, and the second segment should feature at least one complimentary cavity in its top surface, the dimensions and volume of the cavity being such that the protrusion of the first segment is snugly fit within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Mark Antonucci
  • Patent number: 9768531
    Abstract: A method according to the present disclosure provides a ground connection between a first component and a vehicle body rail through a coating disposed on the vehicle body rail. The method includes inserting a grounding bushing into an aperture in a second component, positioning the second component between the first component and the vehicle body rail, placing the grounding bushing in contact with the first component, and inserting a fastener through the first component, through the grounding bushing, and into the vehicle body rail. The method further includes tightening the fastener to clamp the first component and the grounding bushing between a head of the fastener and the vehicle body rail and thereby cause the grounding bushing to pierce through the coating disposed on the vehicle body rail to provide the ground connection between the first component and the vehicle body rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Christopher A. Schlaupitz, Daniel F. Witting
  • Patent number: 9033637
    Abstract: A threaded connector for securing a panel member to a structure and for adjusting the position of the panel member relative to the structure. The connector comprises an elongate one-piece stud, a first spacer, a threaded nut, a second spacer and a turning formation. The connector permits the panel member to be mounted on the stud and the stud to be rotated to adjust the position of the panel member relative to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: Milan Mitrovic
  • Patent number: 8959748
    Abstract: A fastening system for attaching cladding panels to a carrier panel and allowing for differential thermal expansion. The system fastens the two panels together at points in the direction perpendicular to the panel planes. A combination of different carrier panel hole sizes and slots fix the panels together at one point and allow the panels to expand and contract relative to each other while maintaining rectangular alignment. Wall panels and buildings constructed using the fastener are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: E I du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventor: Barry D. Olson
  • Patent number: 8944736
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fastening element with a tolerance-compensation function for fastening add-on elements, in particular roof rails. To this end, a threaded bolt is provided which has a threaded region, a fastening region and a projection. A positioning and assistance element is supported on the protection, and an adjustment element is arranged in the threaded region. An add-on element is arranged on the fastening region. A space between a first and a second component can be compensated for with the aid of the positioning and assistance element in cooperation with the adjustment element. Furthermore, a fastening means is arranged on the threaded region, with the result that the second component is arranged between the adjustment element and the fastening means. The add-on element is fixedly connected to the second component by means of the fastening element in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Ulrich Figge, Vanessa Heimann, Ingo Burger
  • Patent number: 8926247
    Abstract: A washer assembly is configured to isolate a work-piece from a fastener and/or another structure. The washer assembly includes a rubber isolator having at least one protuberance configured to directly contact a surface of the work-piece, and a metal strengthening member permanently secured to the rubber isolator. The protuberance(s) is configured to be compressed during a normal operating condition. The metal strengthening member is configured to be compressed during a peak operating condition in which greater force is exerted into the washer assembly than during the normal operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Schaser, Jason D. Holt
  • Publication number: 20140328648
    Abstract: A compression limiter is disclosed that comprises an upper surface and a lower surface. The compression limiter further comprises an inner surface that defines a passageway configured to accommodate a fastener and an outer surface configured to engage a structure in which the compression limiter is placed. A first retainer projects outwardly from the outer surface and includes a first retention surface that has at least a planar portion. The first retainer further includes an undercut surface disposed inwardly from the first retention surface so as to create a corner extending in a direction with at least a component perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A method of forming the compression limiter is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: GKN SINTER METALS, LLC
    Inventors: Alan C. Taylor, Donald D. Cooper
  • Patent number: 8864432
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening arrangement for fastening a component B to a component A with automatic compensation of tolerances with a spacing (S) between the component B and the component A, which comprises the following features: a.) a receiving element (10) and an adjusting element (20, 30) which can be screwed to the receiving element (10) via a first thread pair (12, 32) having a first pitch direction, while b.) a fastening screw (40) can be inserted through an opening in the receiving element (10) and adjusting element (20, 30) which screw can be screwed into the receiving element (10) via a second thread pair (42, 52) having a second pitch direction opposite to the first and can be connected to the adjusting element (20, 30) by a releasable drag connection (24) in order to co-rotate the adjusting element (20, 30) during the rotation of the fastening screw (40) and thereby move it into contact with the component B, and wherein c.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Bollhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Ulrich Figge, Ingo Burger
  • Patent number: 8845228
    Abstract: A fixing structure for a first and second member, in which the first member has a base portion and a boss extending from the base portion, and the second member has a base portion to which a distal end of the boss is fixed. The fixing structure includes a spacer portion disposed around the boss and configured to keep a distance between the base portion of the first member and the base portion of the second member when the first and the second member are assembled together through the fixing structure. The spacer portion is formed on the second member in such a manner as to extend from the base portion of the second member and come into contact with the base portion of the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: TS Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eisaku Ikekame, Tomoyuki Mizunuma
  • Patent number: 8840350
    Abstract: In accordance with exemplary embodiments, a system for isolating magnesium components from fastener devices is provided to prevent corrosion. The system comprises an isolation member of a metal other than magnesium and configured within a hole for receiving the fastener formed in a magnesium component. A compressible sealing washer having a first diameter is positioned over the hole and an isolation washer having a second diameter being less than the first diameter, and consisting of a similar metal as the isolation member, is placed over the compressible sealing washer. The fastener passes through the isolation washer, the compressible sealing washer and the isolation member within the hole, where is it tightened to compress the compressible sealing washer between the isolation member and isolation washer forming a water-tight seal around the hole to resist corrosion of the magnesium component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC.
    Inventors: Kouichi Inaba, James C. O'Kane, Rinaldo M. Lucchesi
  • Patent number: 8833721
    Abstract: Gas turbine engine systems and related methods involving thermally isolated retention are provided. In this regard, a representative method for attaching a gas turbine engine component includes using a fastener, varying in diameter along a length thereof, to prevent a portion of a component from being crimped between surfaces to which the component is attached such that the component moves relative to the surfaces responsive to thermal cycling of a gas turbine engine of which the surfaces and the component are constituent parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Andreas Sadil, Claude I. Barnett, Jr., Ricky A. Daigle
  • Patent number: 8821095
    Abstract: A screw assembly for maintaining a substantially constant gap between adjacent components includes a first screw including: an exterior surface including a first threaded surface; and an inner wall defining a bore, the bore being coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the first screw, the inner wall including a second threaded surface, wherein one of the first threaded surface or the second threaded surface is arranged with a right-hand thread, and the other one of the first threaded surface or the second threaded surface is arranged with a left-hand thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Brian W. Johansen
  • Patent number: 8777537
    Abstract: A fastener is disclosed including a threaded male fastener and a shear bushing for coupling thin walled structures together. The shear bushing having an internal through opening and a shear ring constructed to project across an interface of adjacent walls is operable for absorbing shear loads transmitted into the fastener from a fastened structure. The male fastener includes a threaded portion extending through the shear ring for engaging a threaded female receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce North American Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore J. Fritsch
  • Patent number: 8764337
    Abstract: A distance device bridges a free space between a carrier part and a roof body for fastening a roof luggage rack, such as a roof rail, a roof strip or the like, on a vehicle roof by a threaded screw, with a support part and a counter support part. The support part and counter support part are held together by a threaded connection and can be adjusted relative to each other in order to set a bridging length. The support part or counter support part is carried along by a rotationally engaging connection with the threaded screw when it is screwed into a counter thread of the roof luggage rack or carrier part as far as a contact position with the carrier part or the roof body. The rotationally engaging connection has a plastic carrier into which the thread of the threaded screw is/has been screwed for carrying along with frictional resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Hans und Ottmar Binder GBR
    Inventors: Hans Binder, Ottmar Binder
  • Publication number: 20140133935
    Abstract: A pre-measured license plate frame spacer unit used in conjunction with a license plate frame will prevent the license plate frame from coming into contact with the vehicle mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: MACNEIL IP LLC
    Inventors: David F. MACNEIL, David S. IVERSON
  • Patent number: 8684648
    Abstract: A fastening system for attaching cladding panels to a carrier panel and allowing for differential thermal expansion. The system fastens the two panels together at points in the direction perpendicular to the panel planes. A combination of different carrier panel hole sizes and slots fix the panels together at one point and allow the panels to expand and contract relative to each other while maintaining rectangular alignment. Wall panels and buildings constructed using the fastener are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: E I du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventor: Barry D. Olson
  • Patent number: 8651788
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adjustable spacer. The spacer includes an elongate member. The spacer includes a sleeve extendable around the elongate member. The elongate member is moveable relative to the sleeve. The sleeve has a locking member. The spacer includes an engaging member configured to selectively engage the locking member for inhibiting movement of the sleeve relative to the elongate member when a desired spacing of the elongate member relative to the sleeve is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Horst Budde
  • Publication number: 20140017032
    Abstract: A washer assembly is configured to isolate a work-piece from a fastener and/or another structure. The washer assembly includes a rubber isolator having at least one protuberance configured to directly contact a surface of the work-piece, and a metal strengthening member permanently secured to the rubber isolator. The protuberance(s) is configured to be compressed during a normal operating condition. The metal strengthening member is configured to be compressed during a peak operating condition in which greater force is exerted into the washer assembly than during the normal operating condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Robert R. Schaser, Jason D. Holt
  • Patent number: 8622677
    Abstract: A semi-trailer leg loading nut includes a screwed hole provided on a nut column and connecting two ends of the nut. Said nut is a two-layered structure formed of a top layer and an under layer or a three-layered structure formed of a top layer, an intermediate layer and an under layer. The outer outline of at least two layers of the nut is a square with the same cutting angle. The side length of the two layers of squares is equal. The outer outline projection of the two layers of squares overlap with each other along the column axis direction. The outer outline projection of the other layer is within the overlapped projection of the two layers along the column axis direction. A funneled oil cup or an oil groove is provided on the top layer of the nut and communicates with the screwed hole. A bottom of the under layer of the nut is plane and is pressed on a loading plate in a quadrate pipe to transfer load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Guangdong Fuwa Engineering Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhiqiang Wu, Shaofan Zeng, Xiangyong Zhong
  • Patent number: 8574703
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for positioning and assembly of two or more parts wherein at least one of which is of a creep sensitive material. The method and apparatus enable very precise positioning of parts during assembly by holding a rough alignment with free play permitting finer alignment. Creep resistant annular inserts are molded into the part and provided with flow apertures to conduct plastic material into the annular insert bore. A spindle defined the geometry of a centering hole within the bore during molding. The annular inserts are operable as compression limiters to prevent deformation of the creep sensitive material under the action of heat or tightening stresses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Mann + Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Stephane Warnery, Guy Tremblay
  • Patent number: 8474766
    Abstract: A height adjustment mechanism includes a fixing member, an adjustment member rotatably engaging with the fixing member, and a standard member having a standard surface. The adjustment member defines an engaging hole. The standard member defines an alignment hole through the standard surface corresponding to the engaging hole of the adjustment member. The standard member is separately positioned over the adjustment member, and the standard surface of the standard member contacts with one distal end of the adjustment member. An assembly method for an electronic device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhi-Hua Liu
  • Patent number: 8454291
    Abstract: A device for attaching an element to a holder, the device including a screw having a body and a head, the screw body being able to pass through an opening of the element and to penetrate the holder, and a washer surrounding the screw body when the washer is inserted between the head of the screw and the element, characterized in that the washer comprises an external periphery and an internal periphery each having at least one protruding portion, each protruding portion being able to penetrate respectively the element and the holder to provide the attachment between the element and the holder. Also, an attachment method using such a device, and a front face with including device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Valeo Systems Thermiques S.A.S.
    Inventor: Jean-Nicolas Guyomard
  • Patent number: 8439456
    Abstract: A built-in domestic appliance is provided that has a length-adjustable spacer sleeve to fasten the built-in domestic appliance to a wall with a fastening screw. The length-adjustable spacer has a first sleeve part mounted on the built-in domestic appliance and a second sleeve part that is telescopically adjustable relative to the first sleeve part and that is adjustable, in length, along an axis with respect to the first sleeve part until the second sleeve part is in contact with the wall. The built-in domestic appliance also includes a rotational securing assembly that limits rotational movement of the second sleeve part about the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Kiechle, Karlheinz Rehm
  • Patent number: 8371465
    Abstract: A drywall extension sleeve for an electrical box includes a rectangular sleeve with upper and lower flanges. The extension box preferably has an outer dimension that mates with a drywall ring or box. The sleeve is preferably attached to a pre-wired assembly, which includes an electric cable and electrical box, drywall ring and the electrical component wired to the cable. The extension sleeve is positioned between the drywall ring or box and the electrical component. The electrical assembly is installed and drywall is then attached to the framed-in wall. An opening is provided through the drywall for the electrical component. The electrical component is then loosened and the extension sleeve and electrical component moved outwardly. Retention clips are placed in upper and lower flanges of the extension sleeve and the electrical component is tightened, drawing the extension and the component flush against the outer surface of the drywall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Denier Electric Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis J. Denier
  • Publication number: 20130034409
    Abstract: An automatic gap adjustor is provided. The automatic gap adjustor includes an upper cammed disk, a lower cammed disk spaced apart from the upper cammed disk, and a resilient spring element therebetween. The upper cammed disk includes a first plurality of cams on an upper axial surface and a second plurality of cams on a lower axial surface. The lower cammed disk includes a third plurality of cams on an upper axial surface and a fourth plurality of cams on an undercut portion spaced apart from the upper axial surface. Opposing cams can be radially offset from each other, such that reciprocating axial movement of the upper disk relative to the lower disk can achieve a stepped rotation of the upper disk. Rotation of the upper disk can drive the automatic gap adjustor along a threaded support to eliminate a gap along a portion thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: HAWORTH, INC.
    Inventors: Richard G. Haworth, Harold R. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130026810
    Abstract: A cutting tool assembly for use in impinging earth strata includes a holder containing a bore having an axial forward end, and the holder having a forward surface surrounding the bore at the axial forward end of the bore. The assembly also includes a cutting tool being rotatably contained within the bore of the holder, and the cutting tool having a rearwardly facing shoulder. The assembly further includes a protective member positionable between the cutting tool and the holder. The protective member has a first surface adjacent the rearwardly facing shoulder of the cutting tool and a second surface adjacent to the forward surface of the holder, wherein the first surface has a first hardness that is greater than a second hardness of the second surface. In one aspect, the second surface of the protective member is in direct contact with the forward surface of the holder. In another aspect, the first surface of the protective member is in direct contact with the rearwardly facing shoulder of the cutting tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KENNAMETAL INC.
    Inventors: Randall Walter Ojanen, Don C. Rowlett
  • Patent number: 8353659
    Abstract: The fastening is performed by using the fastening bolt of the conventional mass-produced car, the fastening method capable of obtaining “Resonance frequency” of the aimed body and the sub frame rigid collar for car used for the fastening method, are provided by the tightening work with the conventional specified torque, and only by simple work of interposing the sub frame rigid collar for car, without need the work of any special processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Tatsuru Ichishima
  • Patent number: 8337132
    Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustment element 1 with which a component can be fastened and can be positioned in space. The adjustment element has the following features: a banjo bolt 10 with an external thread 12 with which the component holder 50 can be positioned in the axial direction of the banjo bolt 10, an inner element 20 which is arranged within the banjo bolt 10 and to which the banjo bolt 10 is rotatably fastened, and a washer 30 which is held between the banjo bolt 10 and inner element 20 in a manner such that it can be laterally displaced in the axial direction of the inner element 20 such that the adjustment element 1 can be laterally positioned and can be fixed with a fastening means 40 reaching through the washer 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Bollhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Sandra Steffenfauseweh, Alexander Vorderwisch, Gerald Welzel
  • Patent number: 8287410
    Abstract: A tensioning device has a tension arm mounted on a base. A pulley is mounted on the tension arm for engaging a looped belt. By changing mounting bushings, one can select either a static mode wherein the tension arm is held stationary relative to the base, or a dynamic mode wherein, in response to a changing force applied between the pulley and the belt (due to vibrations or load changes, for example), the tension arm moves relative to the base such in a manner as to maintain the force substantially constant. Several such devices can be employed in a system for controlling the tension of a looped belt, one or more of the devices being in the static mode and one or more being in the dynamic mode. Several such systems can be employed in a complex machine such as a photocopier or medical apparatus for controlling the tension in a number of different belts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: York Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Hartmut Schmid, Paul O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 8281603
    Abstract: A sliding connection between components of dissimilar materials includes a first mating surface formed on a first component and a second mating surface formed on a second component and configured to mate with the first mating surface. The first component is connected to the second component at the first and the second mating surfaces by a fastener including a shank, a sleeve received by the shank, and a resilient member received by the shank and contained by the sleeve. The resilient member is configured to press the first mating surface and the second mating surface against one another and to permit the first mating surface to slide against the second mating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Bradley C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8266781
    Abstract: Axially expandable spacers (51, 53) are insertable between a nut (20), on a bolt (19) to be tensioned, and a face (F) on a component (C) and have ramp faces (52, 54) to take up the space as the bolt (19) is tensioned by an hydraulic tensioner (25), where the puller bar (35) is engaged with an extension (121) on the nut (120). A segmented collar (60) has radially movable segments (61) to allow quick engagement/release between the puller bar (35) and the end of the bolt (19) on the nut (120).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: John Wentworth Bucknell
  • Patent number: 8240966
    Abstract: A fastening apparatus for fastening a first component to a second component with automatic equalization of tolerances in the separation distance between the first and second component s, including a receiving element and an adjustment element, which can be screwed to the receiving element by way of a fastening screw. The adjustment element can be turned via a detachable drag connection when the fastening screw is turned. The receiving element below a flange has at least one radially projecting holding projection so that the receiving element can be immobilized on the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Bollhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Ulrich Figge, Ingo Burger
  • Patent number: 8220222
    Abstract: These disclosed embodiments relates to a device for fixing a light-weight panel onto a support. Such device includes an insert including at least one flange, such insert being intended for receiving a fixing device of the bolt type. According to the disclosed embodiments, such flange has an outer surface including toothing elements and the device includes a part made of a ductile material including an opening for the passage of the fixing member. The toothing elements are intended for cooperating, upon fixing the panel onto the support, with the part made of a ductile material to allow such fixing without causing any deformation of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventor: Danilo Ciprian
  • Patent number: 8202033
    Abstract: The present invention features, in preferred aspects, a cowl cross member mounting unit that includes an adjustment bolt for suitably absorbing a tolerance occurring when a vehicle body panel and a cowl cross member are suitably coupled with each other, and a cap maintaining the coupling between the adjustment bolt and a fixing nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignees: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd., Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Hyuck Choi, Jae Seob Choi, Phil Je Cho
  • Patent number: 8162578
    Abstract: An adjustable fastener includes a main body and an elastic portion. The elastic portion is connected to an end of the main body. The elastic portion is deformable thus changing a total length of the adjustable fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bin Dai
  • Patent number: 8118529
    Abstract: The present invention is a tolerance adjusting attachment which is part of a bracket member used for providing proper alignment between more than one externally visible component. The tolerance adjusting attachment has a support aperture formed as a portion of the bracket member, and an adjuster core at least partially extending through the support aperture, the adjuster core operably associated with at least one structural member for providing proper positioning of the bracket member in relation to the structural member. The present invention also includes an adjuster clip at least partially extending through and movable through a portion of the bracket member such that the position of the adjuster core is secured relative to the bracket member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Crane, Martin R. Matthews, Anthony J. Povinelli
  • Publication number: 20120025020
    Abstract: Fasteners, such as bolts, nuts and screws, rivets, pins, and retaining rings, made of a highly kinked rigid-rod polyarylene exhibiting outstanding characteristics, notably a high torque and a high tensile elongation, a measure of practical toughness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: SOLVAY ADVANCED POLYMERS, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gregory C. Plithides, Suresh Sriram
  • Patent number: 8066465
    Abstract: A device for fastening components with automatic compensation of tolerances of the spacing therebetween, comprising a base unit including a blind rivet nut securable to one of the components, a threaded adjusting nut and a sleeve-shaped retainer adapted to receive, an adjusting unit including a threaded sleeve, a locating plate and a driving bush connecting the threaded sleeve and the locating plate, the threaded sleeve adapted to be being screwed into the adjusting nut via a first thread pairing of a first thread direction, and a fastening screw which may be screwed into the rivet nut secured to one of the components via a second thread pairing of an opposing second thread direction, forming with the driving bush a releasable connection so that the adjusting unit rotates during rotation of the fastening screw, moving the locating plate into contact with the second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Bollhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Ulrich Figge, Ingo Burger
  • Patent number: 8061948
    Abstract: A device for fastening an add-on part (23) and a support part (24) at a distance from each other has a mounting nut (1) comprising an internal thread (9) of a first direction of thread, a compensating bush (5) comprising an external thread (8) that is adjusted to the internal thread (9), and a fastening screw (26), wherein its screw shaft (25) is configured having an external thread (27) of a second direction of thread opposite of the first direction of thread. The compensating bush (5) is configured having an internal sleeve (13) comprising a head section (15) having an arrangement of reinforcement zones (17) and adaptation zones (18), wherein the reinforcement zones (17) have a larger resistance than the adaptation zones (18) as opposed to an expansion directed radially outward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventor: Vincent DeGelis
  • Patent number: 8046918
    Abstract: A method of reinforcing a hollow beam by inserting a sleeve that is held in place by a tang that is placed on a supporting portion of a first or second opening formed in the beam. A fastener is inserted inside the sleeve. A component is attached to the beam by inserting a fastener through the sleeve. An insertion tool may be used to insert the sleeve into the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Franklin Yustick, Richard Kip Mushisky, Gregg John Davies
  • Publication number: 20110097176
    Abstract: The fastening is performed by using the fastening bolt of the conventional mass-produced car, the fastening method capable of obtaining “Resonance frequency” of the aimed body and the sub frame rigid collar for car used for the fastening method, are provided by the tightening work with the conventional specified torque, and only by simple work of interposing the sub frame rigid collar for car, without need the work of any special processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: Tatsuru Ichishima
  • Patent number: 7897241
    Abstract: A composite spacer operable to be mounted on a first component is disclosed herein, wherein compression loads associated with attaching the first component to some other structure are born by the composite spacer to limit compressive deformation of the first component. The composite spacer includes a first body formed of resin and defining an aperture extending along an axis. The composite spacer also includes a plurality of first fibers positioned in the first body about the aperture. Each of the first fibers extends substantially parallel to the axis and increases a compressive strength of the first body relative to the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce Corporation
    Inventor: Edward Claude Rice
  • Patent number: 7891927
    Abstract: A fastening apparatus for fastening a component B to a component A enables an automatic compensation of tolerances in the separation distance between the two components. The apparatus consists of a receiving element 2, which can be fixed on the component A, an adjustment element 4, which can be screwed to the receiving element via a first thread pairing 28, 48 of a first thread direction, and a fastening screw 6, which can be screwed into the receiving element 2 via a second thread pairing 54, 56 of the opposite thread direction and can be connected with the adjustment element 4 via a detachable drag connection 46, 54, in order to also turn the adjustment element 4 when the fastening screw 6 is turned and to thereby move for the purpose of tolerance compensation in abutment with component B.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Bollhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Burger, Hans-Ulrich Figge