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. 09, 2015
Filed:
Aug. 30, 2012
Robert L. Middleton, Jr., Middleville, MI (US);
Robert L. Middleton, Jr., Middleville, MI (US);
Middleville Tool & Die Co., Middleville, MI (US);
Abstract
The provided process creates a fully flanged interlocked bushing by feeding a metal strip into a stamping assembly having a plurality of tool stations. The stations blank a workpiece from the metal strip, and trim the workpiece's two opposing ends forming a triangular shaped tab and a puzzle locking feature on either end. The workpiece is then formed into an annular shape, wherein the triangular shaped tabs are overlapped as the opposing ends are abutted and interlocked. A flange is then imparted into the side wall of the workpiece relieving the tab's overlapping condition, causing the tabs to abut one another and become co-planar with the flange. This creating a fully flanged part with a tightly fitted parting line. This invention also includes products formed by the aforementioned process.