Patents by Inventor Bruce R. Koch

Bruce R. Koch has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7836569
    Abstract: A tire pressure monitor (TPM) installation tool adapted for use by a operator, and for installing a push-in style TPM within a valve stem opening defined by a wheel, wherein the tool is configured to provide mechanical advantage while assembling the TPM and wheel, and includes an elongated member configured to receive an applied force from the operator, a nesting fixture configured to retain the TPM in a relatively fixed position, and a wheel engaging member for securing the tool during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Spaulding, Marcus P. Beckman, Bruce R. Koch, James Hytinen
  • Publication number: 20080163471
    Abstract: A tire pressure monitor (TPM) installation tool adapted for use by a operator, and for installing a push-in style TPM within a valve stem opening defined by a wheel, wherein the tool is configured to provide mechanical advantage while assembling the TPM and wheel, and includes an elongated member configured to receive an applied force from the operator, a nesting fixture configured to retain the TPM in a relatively fixed position, and a wheel engaging member for securing the tool during installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Spaulding, Marcus P. Beckman, Bruce R. Koch, James Hytinen
  • Patent number: 7128451
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for illuminating the interior of an automotive passenger vehicle for ingress and egress. The apparatus comprises a lighting device integrated into the periphery of a sun visor or similar object. The lighting device is typically activated by a remote entry device, a door opening, or by an interior switch. The apparatus is particularly applicable where overhead interior lighting is impractical, such as in convertibles and other types of vehicles with removable tops. The lighting device may be customized for color and intensity, as well as for physical configuration. The apparatus can also be used in lieu of conventional interior roof lighting as a manufacturing cost reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Michael R Kaphengst, Olimpia Maria Hernandez, Kevin M Hester, Bruce R. Koch
  • Publication number: 20030122354
    Abstract: A roof rail air bag assembly includes an air bag module having an air bag and an air bag inflator, and a hanger designed to attach the assembly to the roof rail of a vehicle. The installation of the roof rail air bag assembly is accomplished by an operator standing outside the vehicle, and without the use of external fasteners. A roof panel is attached to the vehicle roof rail to permanently fasten the hanger to the vehicle, while the air bag module can be easily removed for servicing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: James R. Spaulding, Olimpia Maria Hernandez, Bruce R. Koch
  • Patent number: 6585287
    Abstract: A roof rail air bag assembly includes an air bag module having an air bag and an air bag inflator, and a hanger designed to attach the assembly to the roof rail of a vehicle. The installation of the roof rail air bag assembly is accomplished by an operator standing outside the vehicle, and without the use of external fasteners. A roof panel is attached to the vehicle roof rail to permanently fasten the hanger to the vehicle, while the air bag module can be easily removed for servicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Spaulding, Olimpia Maria Hernandez, Bruce R Koch
  • Patent number: 6470559
    Abstract: A method for installing a vehicle roof assembly. A structure is provided defining a roof opening in a vehicle. A headliner is provided having a first configuration larger than the roof opening and a free peripheral edge. Components are installed onto said headliner, and the headliner is secured to a roof panel for forming a roof assembly. The headliner is deformed to a second configuration for displacing the free peripheral edge, and a restraining device maintains the headliner in the second configuration. The roof assembly is installed onto the vehicle through the roof opening. The restraining device is removed and the free peripheral edge is attached to the vehicle for concealing the structure defining the roof opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Spaulding, Olimpia Maria Hernandez, Bruce R. Koch