The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jun. 30, 1998
Filed:
Aug. 28, 1996
Keith M Bibby, Mansfield, MA (US);
Robert H Hesford, Sr, North Kingstown, RI (US);
John Surrette, Warwick, RI (US);
Richard A Ross, Cranston, RI (US);
Kenney Manufacturing Company, Warwick, RI (US);
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for uniformly twisting hollow, open-seam rods with preferably rectangular cross-sections for use as decorative curtain rods are disclosed. The twist extends throughout substantially the entire length of the rod. This feature enables a telescoped pair of rods, that is, a pair of rods with an inner rod dimensioned to slide into and out of an outer rod, to be twisted simultaneously such that the telescoping feature is maintained after twisting. The apparatus includes a rotatable first chuck and a substantially non-rotatable second chuck. Each chuck has male and female components to engage the inner and outer surfaces of a respective end of the rod. These components prevent buckling along the open seam and permit twisting throughout substantially the entire length of the rods. Sensor controls ensure uniform twisting and controlled unwinding of the rods. The controls are programmable to vary the amount of twist performed on each rod, and the apparatus is adjustable to accommodate rods of different lengths. In addition, rods with other cross-sections can be twisted.