Abstract: A method for adjusting a bolster (22) on a seat (10) involves sensing upper and lower limits of several vehicle parameters to determine bolster condition.

Abstract: A method for adjusting a bolster (22) on a seat (10) involves sensing upper and lower limits of several vehicle parameters to determine bolster condition.

Abstract: A simulator for a trailer incorporates sensors on both the trailer and a tow vehicle towing the trailer to measure operating parameters of both the trailer and the tow vehicle or prime mover. A computer mounted in the trailer or in the tow vehicle gathers input data from the sensors, including a variety of measurements of force, displacement, and temperature for the tow vehicle, the trailer, and their components. The computer may also be used to apply braking forces to the wheels of the trailer. Using the simulator, a variety of components on the trailer may be tested, their performance measured, and a better trailer may be designed. A trailer may also incorporate such a system for better control of the trailer and the combination vehicle of which it is a part.

Abstract: A trailer control system incorporates sensors on both the trailer and a tow vehicle towing the trailer to measure operating parameters of both the trailer and the tow vehicle or prime mover. A computer mounted in the trailer or in the tow vehicle gathers input data from the sensors, including a variety of measurements of force, displacement, and temperature for the tow vehicle, the trailer, and their components. The computer may also be used to apply braking forces to the wheels of the trailer. Using the simulator, a variety of components on the trailer may be tested, their performance measured, and a better trailer may be designed. A trailer may also incorporate such a system for better control of the trailer and the combination vehicle of which it is a part.

Abstract: An overhead valve engine including a cylinder bore having an outer end; and a crankshaft assembly including a substantially straight crankshaft, a substantially cylindrical journal eccentrically mounted on the crankshaft, a one-piece connecting rod rotatably mounted on the journal, and a counterweight mounted on the crankshaft. The engine also includes a cam shaft having at least one cam surface and an axis inward of the outer end of the cylinder bore; two valves having opened and closed positions; two valve stems, each valve stem being attached to a valve; and two generally L-shaped and pivotably mounted valve operating levers, each lever including a first lever arm having a cam follower in contact with the cam surface, a pivot axis about which the lever pivots, and a valve arm in contact with a valve stem, where movement of the lever caused by the cam surface causes the lever to pivot and the valve arm to depress the valve stem and thus open the valve.

Abstract: An integral plastic engine housing is disclosed for small internal combustion engines such as those used on lawnmowers, snowblowers, generators and the like. The integral plastic housing integrates the blower housing, air filter housing, fuel tank, starter rewind housing, carburetor, primer bulb assembly and brake cover into a single unit to reduce the manufacturing and assembly costs. In a preferred embodiment, a plastic carburetor is connected to the remainder of the integral plastic housing via a pair of rails and corresponding slide members. The position of the carburetor with respect to the fuel tank and the air filter housing allows the air filter housing and fuel tank to be directly connected to the carburetor without the need for intervening hoses or lines and their associated clamps. The integral housing is substantially made from a polyethylene plastic material, with the carburetor and parts of the primer bulb assembly being preferably made from nylon.