Joints and connections – Articulated members
Reexamination Certificate
2000-03-21
2001-11-27
Browne, Lynne H. (Department: 3629)
Joints and connections
Articulated members
C200S061700, C200S335000, C074S469000, C403S321000, C403S315000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06322278
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
A durable pivot mechanism with bearing surface is described that provides for smooth planar travel perpendicular to the pivot axis. The absence of ball bearings, sealed joints, or the need for lubrication makes the pivot mechanism of the invention well suited for outdoor applications in inaccessible locations. The pivot mechanism of the invention is particularly well suited for use on utility poles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In certain situations, there is a need for a durable pivot connection that is able to withstand cyclic weather extremes with little or no maintenance yet provide a reliable pivot action after extended inaction. Additionally, the pivot connection must be able to move smoothly in a plane despite significant twisting and other nonplanar forces.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a pivoting connection that is durable with little need for maintenance.
It is another object of the invention to provide a pivot mechanism that will move smoothly in a plane and will resist torsional and other forces outside the plane of travel.
In accordance with these and other objects of the invention that will become apparent from the description herein, a pivoting connection according to the invention includes:
a. a first connector member extending in a first plane and having a first end with a first pin opening transverse to said first plane and a second end with a first pair of projections spaced from a second pair of projections in substantially an H shape,
b. a second connector member having a first end with transverse pin openings for mating with the pin openings of the first connector member to receive a pin therethrough and pivotably secure said first connector member and said second connector member, and a second end for connection to a movable member that can displace in a second planar direction, and
c. a base member having first and second coplanar ends with an offset section therebetween, said offset section having an X-shaped opening therein made of two diagonal lengths and a second support surface therebetween for receiving one pair of said projection of the H-shaped end of said first connector member when inserted along a nonvertical position and retain said first connector member in a vertical position.
The pivoting connection of the invention provides a simple, durable pivoting connection for guidance in a plane of motion with little maintenance and high reliability. One leg of the H-shaped end of the connector member fits through the X-shaped opening in the base member along one leg of the X shape and is twisted to a vertical position to secure the H-shaped end within the base member. The first support surface of the H-shaped end of the connector member rests directly on and is supported by the second support surface of the base member in a low friction, metal point-to-point bearing relationship that is essentially immune to the adverse effects of weathering or rusting.
REFERENCES:
patent: 3058146 (1962-10-01), Harrison et al.
patent: 3142367 (1964-07-01), Brown et al.
patent: 3867044 (1975-02-01), Downing
patent: 4694705 (1987-09-01), Frankhouse et al.
patent: 5534858 (1996-07-01), Tinkham
'Hubbell Incorporated
Browne Lynne H.
Dunwoody Aaron M
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