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:
Aug. 17, 1999
Filed:
Jul. 09, 1996
Robert L Benoit, Oakdale, NY (US);
Glenn L Spacht, Lloyd Neck, NY (US);
NBG Technologies, Inc., Hauppauge, NY (US);
Abstract
A method and apparatus for coupling tubular elements of a frame without welding or adhesive bonding. Connection elements are used with which mechanical connections may be accomplished by deforming the tubular element to conform to the shape of its respective connection element. Preferably, the connection element is shaped to be inserted within a hollow end of a tubular element and includes radially inwardly directed recesses. The tubular element is deformed with respect to the recesses, preferably by electromagnetic pulse forming, to thereby lock the tubular element and connection element against relative movement. Such connection elements and method may be used in frames of mobile units such as bicycles, wheelchairs, and walkers. The forming process used in connecting the tubular frame elements may also be used to create ride compliance features in the frame by deforming at least one of the tubular elements to modify its spring constant. The ride compliance features preferably are radially inwardly or outwardly circumferential deformations.