Abstract: A sliding window assembly, a cable drive system and methods of operating the same, are disclosed. The sliding window assembly includes a guide track and a sliding window movable relative to the guide track. A heating element is coupled to the sliding window for heating the sliding window. A drum of a drive assembly rotates and includes a conductive terminal connected to a power supply of the vehicle. A cable is coupled between the sliding window and heating element and the drum. The drum rotates to mechanically wind or unwind the cable for moving the sliding window. A conductive element is coupled to at least one of the drum and the cable and is electrically connected to the cable and is movable during movement of the sliding window. The conductive element contacts the conductive terminal to provide electrical current to the cable for energizing the heating element.

Abstract: An automatic cable length adjustment mechanism includes first and second members that slidably engage one another. A spring biases the members apart, and a releasable one-way ratchet-type mechanism interconnects the parts after the parts shift relative to one another to take up slack in a Bowden cable or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the one-way ratchet arrangement includes a plurality of cantilevered levers having teeth or the like that engage rows of teeth.

Abstract: An energy storage mechanism for folding seats for vehicles and the like includes an energy-storing component such as a spring that assists in moving the seat or other component. The mechanism provides for relatively small user input forces and distances, yet provides a relatively large force acting over a relatively large distance as an output of the mechanism. The mechanism may be configured to provide for a single user input/release, without requiring powered actuators or the like.

Abstract: A powered actuator includes a rotating output member that may be operatively connected to one or more cables or mechanical links for release/actuation of a lock, latch, or the like, of a vehicle seat or other component. The powered actuator may be configured to provide a required force on the release cable and/or a required distance of travel. The actuator may also be configured to provide for proper timing of the movement of the release cables if required for a particular application.

Abstract: A compensator for cables includes a housing and a spring wrapped around inside the housing to form a loop. An inner strand of a Bowden cable or the like extends through the coil spring, and thereby forms a loop. The looped configuration of the coil spring provides a higher effective spring constant, and thereby permits a smaller coil spring to be used. The dimensions of the compensator can also be reduced, thereby reducing the space required for the compensator.

Abstract: An energy storage mechanism for folding seats for vehicles and the like includes an energy-storing component such as a spring that assists in moving the seat or other component. The mechanism provides for relatively small user input forces and distances, yet provides a relatively large force acting over a relatively large distance as an output of the mechanism. The mechanism may be configured to provide for a single user input/release, without requiring powered actuators or the like.