Abstract: An improved method and special apparatus for getting large nutmeat pieces from the nut (also known as Black Walnuts) of the Eastern Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) tree utilizing a special apparatus to saw grooves on the nutshell that make new fault lines parallel to and on each side of the internal partition of the nutshell. Said sawn grooves allow for tensional force to open the nutshell in three pieces resulting in the exposure of large nutmeat pieces for easy pick-out removal. This method eliminates the need for compression force to crack the nutshell.

Abstract: An insertable wear strip assembly is dimensioned for insertion into an associated cavity of an associated weatherseal. The wear strip assembly includes a generally U-shaped base portion having a base wall, and first and second sidewalls extending from the base wall for receiving the window glass. First and second compliant thin wall regions extend outwardly from the first and second sidewalls, respectively, for low friction, sliding engagement with the window glass. Optionally, the insertable wear strip is secured to the weatherseal via fasteners.

Abstract: An insertable wear strip assembly is dimensioned for insertion into an associated cavity of an associated weatherseal. The wear strip assembly includes a generally U-shaped base portion having a base wall, and first and second sidewalls extending from the base wall for receiving the window glass. First and second compliant thin wall regions extend outwardly from the first and second sidewalls, respectively, for low friction, sliding engagement with the window glass. Optionally, the insertable wear strip is secured to the weatherseal via fasteners.

Abstract: A weatherseal employing a magnetic appendage for enhancing the sealing with a mounting surface. The weatherseal includes an elastomeric base that conforms to and engages the mounting surface. The seal portion extends from the base for selective engagement with a second surface, such as a door of a vehicle. An appendage is fabricated from a magnetic elastomer that is sufficiently flexible to conform to irregularities in the mounting surface. Preferably, only the appendage is formed of the magnetic elastomer to achieve an effective seal with only a small amount of the expensive magnetic elastomer to enhance the seal with the mounting surface and avoid, for example, the use of more expensive welded mounting channels that add undesired weight to the vehicle.

Abstract: An integrated glassrun and window regulator assembly is provided. Various lift assembly portions (screw drive, drive belt, flexible cable) can be used to selectively raise and lower a window glass. An integral glassrun extrusion provides a guiding function of the window glass as it proceeds between the raised and lowered positions, and also functions to seal against the external elements along the front, upper, and rear edges of the glass when in the window is in a closed or raised position. A substantial reduction in weight results from the integrated assembly, in addition to eliminating relays, electric switches, reducing electrical wire size, and reducing the cost of manufacture and assembly.

Abstract: A self-tapping fastener or fastening peg secures a weatherseal to a mounting surface of an automotive vehicle. A pointed, conical nose pierces the weatherseal to form an opening. In the preferred embodiment, the fastening peg is rotated at a first velocity as it is axially advanced toward the weatherseal to create an opening. The fastening peg is further axially advanced and rotated at a second velocity to advance a first flange through the pierced opening, thereby securing the fastening peg to the weatherseal. The weatherseal is then secured to a vehicle mounting surface by advancing a locking assembly through a pre-formed opening in the mounting surface.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a resilient sealing insert with a belt-line extension for a door and window flush glass channel seal is described. The generally U-shaped channel insert includes a base, a first leg and a second leg which is attached to the base along a tearable line of weakness. The legs are separated from the insert into a window run channel portion and an integral belt-line extension.

Abstract: A resilient sealing insert for a door and window flush glass channel seal is described. The generally U-shaped channel insert includes a base, a first leg and a second leg which is attached to the base along a tearable line of weakness for separating the insert into a window run channel portion and an integral belt-line extension. A method for forming a window run channel seal insert having an integral belt-line extension is also described.