Patents Issued in May 30, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130133420
    Abstract: The present invention provides a humidity sensor including a first conductor, a second conductor, a power supply unit, and a current sensing unit. The first and the second conductors are separated from each other for a predetermined distance and are placed at a predetermined place. The power supply unit supplies high voltage to the first conductor, and the current sensing unit senses a change of current in the conductor and generate a signal in association with the change of the current. Therefore, the humidity sensor may operate in any environment, such as high temperature and high pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: GRAND MATE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHUNG-CHIN HUANG, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Publication number: 20130133421
    Abstract: Altitude measuring devices such as barometers typically provide good differential reading yet poor absolute reading, mainly depending on dynamic weather conditions. Placed at the same altitude but on different days, a barometer based altimeter might show different altitude reading. Thus, such altimeters, when used for navigation by pilots and mountaineers, for example, require manual and timely calibration. The present invention discloses a method for automatic calibration of altitude measurement devices, such as barometers, in order to achieve good absolute readings yet avoid the present manual calibration. This method is particularly useful for indoors navigation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel A. Katz
  • Publication number: 20130133422
    Abstract: In order to provide an inertial sensor capable of suppressing a wrong diagnosis even in an adverse environment such that sudden noise occurs, an inertial sensor is provided with a movable part (105), a first detection unit (C1, C2) for detecting the amount of displacement of the movable part (105), a forced vibration means (503, C3, C4) for forcedly vibrating the movable part (105) by applying a diagnosis signal, a physical quantity calculation unit (502) for calculating the physical quantity from a detection signal from the first detection unit (C1, C2), and an abnormality determination unit (504) for determining the presence or absence of the abnormality for the physical quantity using the diagnosis signal obtained via the first detection unit (C1, C2), and is used within a vehicle, the inertial sensor further comprising a second sensor (510) mounted in the same vehicle and connected to the abnormality determination unit (504).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiyoko Yamanaka, Heewon Jeong, Toshiaki Nakamura, Masahide Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20130133423
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a device for detecting motions and a method for detecting motions. The device for detecting motions includes a sensor detecting motions to output detection result signals; an accumulation operation unit accumulatively summing absolute values of the detection result signals in a preset accumulation period to derive signal accumulation values; a motion determination unit comparing the signal accumulation values with a preset first reference value to determine whether the motions are present; and an output unit outputting motion detection signals according to determination results of the motion determination unit. By this configuration, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention can reflect a size of the detection result signals to motion detection while improving inaccuracy of the motion detection according to a fixing of a threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Kyung Rin Kim, Byoung Won Hwang, Chang Hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130133424
    Abstract: Techniques for system-based motion detection is described, including a first accelerometer configured to detect a first acceleration associated with a system element, a second accelerometer configured to detect a second acceleration associated with the system, and a differential amplifier configured to generate a signal corresponding to the first acceleration, wherein the signal is used to distinguish the first acceleration from the second acceleration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Alan Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20130133425
    Abstract: A thermal convection-type accelerometer includes a first insulating substrate, a circuit formed on the first insulating substrate, a first acceleration-sensing device coupled with the circuit, and a first supporting layer attached on the insulating substrate. The first acceleration-sensing device includes two temperature-sensing components and a heater disposed between the temperature-sensing components. The temperature-sensing components and the heater are directly formed on the first supporting layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: CHUNG HUA UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Chung Hua University
  • Publication number: 20130133426
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an inertial sensor including: a membrane; a mass body provided under the membrane; a plurality of patterned magnets provided under the mass body; and a magnetoresistive element provided to be spaced apart from the mass body and measuring static DC acceleration acting on the mass body through resistance changed according to magnetic fields of the plurality of patterned magnets. The plurality of patterned magnets and the magnetoresistive element are included, thereby making it possible to measure static DC acceleration (particularly, gravity acceleration) that is difficult to measure using an existing to piezoelectric element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRON-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jung Tae PARK, Seung Heon HAN, Jong Woon KIM, Heung Woo PARK, Jung Won LEE, Jung Eun NOH, Won Kyu JEUNG, Sung Jun LEE
  • Publication number: 20130133427
    Abstract: A portable medical device is provided with an internal accelerometer device. The medical device includes a circuit board, the accelerometer device, and a response module coupled to the accelerometer device. The accelerometer device is mechanically and electrically coupled to the circuit board, and it includes a plurality of mass-supporting arms for a plurality of electrically distinct sensor electrodes, piezoelectric material for the mass-supporting arm, and a proof mass supported by the mass-supporting arms. Each of the mass-supporting arms has one of the sensor electrodes located thereon. Acceleration of the proof mass causes deflection of the piezoelectric material, which generates respective sensor signals at one or more of the sensor electrodes. The response module is configured to initiate an acceleration-dependent operation of the portable medical device in response to generated sensor signals present at the sensor electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventor: Medtronic Minimed, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130133428
    Abstract: There are provided a fingerprint detection sensor and a method of manufacturing the same. The fingerprint detection sensor includes a plurality of piezoelectric sensors arranged in an array on a two-dimensional plane and having a predetermined height; a filler provided to surround the plurality of piezoelectric sensors and isolating vibrations between the plurality of piezoelectric sensors; and a control unit discharging predetermined output signals through the piezoelectric sensors to detect information of an object in contact with, or close to, the plurality of piezoelectric sensors, wherein the plurality of piezoelectric sensors include first surfaces and second surfaces disposed on both ends thereof in a height direction and areas of the first surfaces and the second surfaces are different from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seung Seoup Lee, Il Kwon Chung, Jae Hyouck Choi, Jun Kyung Na
  • Publication number: 20130133429
    Abstract: An apparatus for pipeline inspection, the apparatus comprising a body comprising a longitudinal axis, an array of ultrasonic sensors configured to inspect a pipe wall, a skid comprising an outer surface configured to run adjacent to, or in contact with, the pipe wall, wherein the array of ultrasonic sensors are arranged at a stand off from the outer surface of the skid, and a chamber comprising an ultrasonic couplant, wherein the ultrasonic couplant permits ultrasound communication between the array of ultrasonic sensors and an inner surface of the pipe wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Robert Palma, William Herron
  • Publication number: 20130133430
    Abstract: A power circuit is provided. The power circuit comprises an input terminal configured to receive a DC input, a DC-DC converting module configured to convert the DC input received at the input terminal into one or more DC outputs at predefined ratings, and a parameter configuring module configured to configure parameters of the DC-DC converting module to match with the DC input received at the input terminal based on different DC inputs. The DC-DC converting module is further configured to operate at the parameters configured by the parameter configuring module, and an output terminal configured to output the one or more converted DC output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY COMPANY LLC
    Inventor: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Compan
  • Publication number: 20130133431
    Abstract: An input device is connectable to a headphone that includes a speaker unit. The input device includes a vibration detection unit for detecting an electrical signal output from the speaker unit thereby to detect vibration of the headphone from the detected electrical signal on the basis of a preset vibration detection parameter. The input device also includes an input information determination unit for determining information to be input in accordance with the vibration detected by the vibration detection unit. The vibration detection unit includes a resistor provided between a headphone amplifier for outputting a sound signal to the headphone and the headphone, and the vibration detection unit detects vibration of the headphone by detecting a potential change of the resistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: NTT DOCOMO, INC.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Manabe, Masaaki Fukumoto
  • Publication number: 20130133432
    Abstract: A pressure sensor assembly is disclosed wherein the substrate to which the pressure sensing die is mounted is decoupled from the package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Chris Daniel Wagner, Dale Alan Gee, Derek Hubert McReavy
  • Publication number: 20130133433
    Abstract: Deflection of a free end of one plate-like member, that is caused by uniform stress, is transmitted to the other plate-like member by moving a free end of the other plate-like member. According to this configuration, the uniform stress applied to the one plate-like member is converted into stress induced by a point force in the other plate-like member, and then, the induced stress is concentrated on a fixed end side narrow portion in which a piezoresistor is provided. Thus, a novel structure for a piezoresistive surface stress sensor having high sensitivity to uniform stress applied to the surface of the sensor is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Genki Yoshikawa, Heinrich Rohrer, Terunobu Akiyama, Peter Vettiger
  • Publication number: 20130133434
    Abstract: The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) testing device includes a corrosion cell for placing a specimen to be tested therein. The corrosion cell is configured to simulate the extreme high temperature and pressure, as well as the corrosive environments experienced by engineered, industrial components. A heating element and a pressurizing assembly are operatively attached to the corrosive cell to simulate the high temperature and pressure environs. A circulation assembly is also attached to the corrosion cell to simulate both flowing and stagnant conditions of the corrosion solution that the industrial component can be subjected to. A loading assembly with a specimen holding shaft is operatively attached to the specimen to place a predetermined and constant tensile load on the specimen until fracture in order to determine K1 and KIscc of the engineered component. PTFE seals are used to seal the specimen holding shaft during testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALS
    Inventors: RIHAN OMAR RIHAN, MUWAFFAQ QUBBAI, MEHABOOB BASHA, LUAI AL-HADHRAMI
  • Publication number: 20130133435
    Abstract: A bending sensor includes a high resistance layer; a low resistance layer having a crack and a lower electrical resistance than the high resistance layer in a state where the crack is closed; an insulating layer between the high and low resistance layers; and a plurality of electrode portions connecting electrically in parallel the high resistance and low resistance layers. In an OFF state where a bend amount is small, the crack is unlikely to open and a combined resistance of electrical resistances of the high resistance layer and the low resistance layer is output as OFF resistance from the plurality of electrode portions. In an ON state where the bend amount is large, the crack is likely to open and at least the electrical resistance of the high resistance layer is output as ON resistance higher than the OFF resistance from the plurality of electrode portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130133436
    Abstract: The measuring system comprises: a measuring transducer, for producing oscillatory signals dependent on a viscosity of the flowing medium and/or a Reynolds number of the flowing medium; transmitter electronics for driven the measuring transducer and for evaluating oscillatory signals delivered by the measuring transducer. The measuring transducer includes: an inlet-side flow divider; an outlet-side flow divider; at least two, mutually parallel, straight, measuring tubes, connected to the flow dividers; and an electromechanical exciter mechanism for exciting and maintaining mechanical oscillations of the two measuring tubes. Each of the two measuring tubes opens with an inlet-side measuring tube end into a flow opening and with an outlet-side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: ENDRESS + HAUSER FLOWTEC AG
    Inventor: Endress + Hauser Flowtec AG
  • Publication number: 20130133437
    Abstract: Disclosed is a torque index sensor, the sensor including a housing, a stator mounted at a space inside the housing, a magnet arranged inside the stator to rotate with a rotation shaft, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fixedly mounted inside the housing and mounted with a first magnetic element outputting a magnetization signal in response to rotation of the magnet, at least one or more fixing bosses protrusively formed at the housing, and a collector having a plurality of through holes penetratively formed at a position corresponding to that of the fixing boss and concentrating a magnetic field for guiding a magnetic flux of the magnet, wherein the fixing boss is thermally fused after passing the through hole to tightly fix the collector at an inner surface of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: LG Innotek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Myungchul Woo
  • Publication number: 20130133438
    Abstract: A device for delivering fluid to a user includes a housing, a drive motor assembly in the housing, a force sensor, and an electronics module. The drive motor assembly regulates delivery of fluid by actuating a piston of a fluid reservoir, and the force sensor generates output levels in response to force imparted thereto during, for example, fluid delivery operations. The electronics module processes the output levels of the force sensor to assess the operating health of the force sensor, to check for occlusions in the fluid delivery path, and to monitor the seating status of the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventor: Medtronic Minimed, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130133439
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, device, and method provide the ability to measure forces a cell exerts on its surroundings. A platform is suspended across an opening using support legs. The platform is able to move horizontally in a plane of the opening. A piezoresistive strain sensor is integrated into the platform and measures strain induced in the support legs when the platform moves horizontally thereby measuring displacement of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Blake Waters Axelrod, Paula Popescu, Michael L. Roukes
  • Publication number: 20130133440
    Abstract: A diluter for diluting a sample flow of a test gas to allow subsequent measurement of emissions in the test gas. During a calibration mode, a first flow control element receives and controls the dilution flow, a second flow control element receives and measures only the dilution flow, and a third flow control element is closed. Also during calibration, the second flow control element is calibrated to the first flow control element. During a measurement mode, the same dilution flow rate is maintained in the first and second flow control elements, the sample flow and dilution flow are mixed, and the mixed flow flows into both the second flow control element and the third flow control element. Also during measurement, the third flow control element controls sample flow, and the second flow control element delivers a portion of the mixed flow to the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Qiang Wei, Imad Said Abdul-Khalek
  • Publication number: 20130133441
    Abstract: A thermophoretic sampler includes a sample assembly into which a removable sample cartridge can be inserted. The sample cartridge holds a substrate that, upon insertion, is exposed to a sample chamber. Thermophoresis is induced in the sample chamber, causing nanoparticles to be deposited on the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicants: RJ LEE GROUP, COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: John Volckens, Gary Casuccio, Henry P. Lentz, Anthony Marchese, John T. Mastovich, Daniel David Miller-Lionberg, Judith Chun-Hsu Yang
  • Publication number: 20130133442
    Abstract: A sample collection apparatus for use with a collection trap is provided. The apparatus includes a handle and a sample collection assembly coupled to the handle. The sample collection assembly includes a cradle and a cover. The cradle is coupled to the handle at a first end portion of the cradle. The cradle includes an opening defined therethrough by vertical side walls extending between an upper surface of the cradle and a lower surface of the cradle. The cover includes a projection member and a block. The cover is coupled to a second end portion of the cradle. The projection member includes the block configured to be at least partially inserted through the cradle opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Edward Knapp, Michael Edgar Patterson
  • Publication number: 20130133443
    Abstract: A testing apparatus includes a testing desk; a supporting tray adapted for securing an expansion card, and a lifting device attached to the testing desk. The supporting tray includes a retaining portion rotatably attached to the testing desk. The lifting device includes a positioning post and a lifting post moveably received in the positioning post. The supporting tray is slanted relative to the testing desk, the lifting post is rotatable relative to the positioning post in a direction substantially perpendicular to the testing desk, and the supporting tray is rotatable relative to the testing desk for adjusting an angle between the supporting tray and the testing desk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (WUHAN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: WEI-MIN QIN, WEI LIANG, YU-LIN LIU
  • Publication number: 20130133444
    Abstract: There is provided a head element inspection apparatus that can adjust the position of a cantilever for a short time without using any adjusting jig in the case of replacing a cantilever. A head element inspection apparatus includes a cantilever holder that holds a cantilever, a holder base on which the cantilever holder is mounted, a Z-direction drive shaft that drives the holder base in the Z-direction, and a workpiece table that holds a head element and drives the head element in X- and Y-directions. The cantilever holder and the holder base include adjusting mechanisms (an adjusting screw and an off-center pin) that adjust the position of the cantilever in the X-direction and the Y-direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130133445
    Abstract: A method for adjusting a control moment gyroscope array includes receiving a stream and directing the stream to adjust momentum in the control moment gyroscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Jan Heiberg
  • Publication number: 20130133446
    Abstract: This application relates to a device which is mounted onto a threadless curveable/flexible shaft and which converts the rotary motion of the outer of a curveable/flexible shaft into linear translation of the device. The device includes a threadless curveable/flexible shaft and two blocks with have an axial bore therethrough and a plurality of roller bearings, four of which are disposed on the block called the upper block and two of which are disposed on the block called the lower block. The upper block carries the tensioning devices which generate the friction between the bearing and the outer of the shaft. The lower block is the component to which both the driven load and the upper block are secured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: FENGDONG ZHAO
  • Publication number: 20130133447
    Abstract: An operator ratchet mechanism for effecting reciproctable lateral movement if an element of a geared drive train in a door, gate or barrier operator. The operator ratchet mechanism can be utilised to cause disconnection between the geared drive train and an electric motor of the door gate or barrier operator to enable the door gate or barrier to me manually moved, and subsequent reconnection between the geared drive connection and electric motor. An embodiment of a tilt door operator which enables disconnection and reconnection between a geared drive train and an electric motor of the operator by effecting lateral displacement of an element of the geared drive train is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: SMART OPENERS PTY LTD.
    Inventors: Jack Leivenzon, Glen Edward Fleming, Eric Peter Vellere
  • Publication number: 20130133448
    Abstract: A inverted spline rail system is provided. The inverted spline rail system includes a drive motor that rotates a drive screw. The drive screw has a associated nut body. The nut body includes a attachment portion that a user can attach a device that requires linear motion control. Furthermore, the nut body is located inside of a cylindrical body that encases the drive screw. The nut body has guide teeth that mate with an internally splined guide rail of the cylindrical body that contains both the nut and the drive screw. The reciprocating nature of the guide teeth of the nut and the internally splined guide rail of the cylindrical body translate the rotational motion of the drive screw into linear motion of the nut body. The inverted spline rail system is protected from its operating environment by a seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Pacific Bearing Company
    Inventors: Robert Schroeder, Jonathan R. Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20130133449
    Abstract: An electric steering lock device includes: a shaft which includes a male threaded portion and which is rotationally driven by an electric motor; a slider which includes a female threaded portion threadedly engaging with the male threaded portion and which advances and retreats in response to the rotation of the shaft; a lock member which is turnable between a locked position and an unlocked position in response to the advancement and retreat of the slider; a stopper which holds the lock member at the unlocked position by engaging with an engagement portion provided in the lock member, the stopper being movable in a direction orthogonal to a turning plane of the lock member; and a spring for biasing the stopper in an engagement direction. The stopper engages with and disengages from the engagement portion of the lock member by being moved by an operation portion provided in the slider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: U-SHIN LTD.
    Inventor: U-SHIN LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130133450
    Abstract: A multi-clutch power shift transmission for a motor vehicle with at least one prime mover is provided, where a shaft brake unit is arranged to reduce the rotational speed of one of two input shafts, and a central synchronizing unit is arranged to make a first of the input shafts rotate faster or slower than a second of the input shafts. The shaft brake unit and the central synchronizing unit are arranged to be simultaneously activated in order to reduce rotating speeds prior to the engagement of tooth clutches when the output shaft is not rotating. The input shaft brake unit is arranged to be used when performing a multi-step power shift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Anders Hedman, Lars Zettergren
  • Publication number: 20130133451
    Abstract: A transmission, for a motor vehicle with an auxiliary drive (EM), having a first housing part (2a), a second housing part, a transmission shaft (GW), an auxiliary drive shaft which can be driven by the auxiliary drive (EM), a lay shaft (VW) that is positioned axially parallel to the transmission shaft (GW) and coaxial to the auxiliary drive shaft. The lay shaft (VW) is connected, via a spur wheel stage (Z22, Z23) with the transmission shaft (GW), and the lay shaft (VW) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner with the auxiliary drive shaft and is supported on both sides of the spur wheel stage (Z22, Z23) in a bearing device (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventor: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
  • Publication number: 20130133452
    Abstract: A gear backlash adjusting mechanism includes a base, a first gear, a first elastic gear meshing with the first gear, a bearing sleeved on the first gear, and a bearing box over the bearing, and mounted on the base. The first elastic gear includes an outer ring, an inner ring, and an elastic member mounted between the outer ring and the inner ring. The position of the bearing box relative to the base can be adjusted, to push the first elastic gear via the first gear. The elastic member is deformed and provides elastic force to push the first elastic gear to tightly mesh with the first gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: BO LONG
  • Publication number: 20130133453
    Abstract: An internal circulation ball screw includes a threaded shaft, a nut having a receiving space, a circulation member mounted to the receiving space and having a first circulation groove and a second circulation groove, and a plurality of rolling members running between the threaded shaft and the nut. The first circulation groove defines a first front section, a first rear section, and a first curved section communicating with the first front section and the first rear section separately. The second circulation groove defines a second front section, a second rear section, and a second curved section communicating with the second front section and the second rear section separately. The first and second curved sections define a predetermined included angle with respect to the threaded shaft radially. Therefore, the wall between the circulation channels is uniform to enhance the durability of the ball screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Yan-Yu CHEN, Yung-Hsueh LIN
  • Publication number: 20130133454
    Abstract: In order to implement a reliable supply of lubricant to gear unit components during emergency or spinning operation of a gear unit, level control is provided in a lubricant sump of the gear unit as a function of the operating state by means of a control unit associated with a lubricant pump. During normal operation the level is adjusted to dry sump level. In contrast, the lubricant pump is switched off in emergency or spinning operation, so that a splash lubrication level is automatically achieved in the lubricant sump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Thomas Barthel, Jan-Dirk Reimers, Jörg Tebroke, Ulrich Weinsdörfer
  • Publication number: 20130133455
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle drive control apparatus including a shift mechanism configured to be able to selectively switch its shift position to either a driving position or a non-driving position; and a controller configured to control the drive force output from a motor serving as a drive source of the vehicle according to operation of an accelerator, to transmit the drive force from the motor to wheels when the shift position is in the driving position, and to stop the transmission of the drive force from the motor to the wheels when the shift position is in the non-driving position. The controller also performs drive force suppression processing to control the drive force, when the shift position is switched from the non-driving position to the driving position with the accelerator turned ON, such that the acceleration of the vehicle does not exceed an upper limit of acceleration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Shinya KODAMA, Motonari OHBAYASHI, Yuki MINASE, Masashi TAKAGI, Toshihiro TAKAGI
  • Publication number: 20130133456
    Abstract: A shifting device of manual transmission apparatus for automobile is provided, shifting device which reduces fluctuations in operational loads at the time of selecting operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: AISIN AI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Matsushita, Hiroyuki Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20130133457
    Abstract: A shift control device for a motorcycle includes a transmission that allows switching between a neutral state and a number of engaged shift positions, a shift control section that controls a shift state of the transmission, and an N/D changeover switch that switches between the neutral state and a drive mode for executing automatic shift among the plural shift positions. The shift control device also includes a hand-operated shift switch that allows manual shifting among the plural shift positions, and a foot operated shift control unit that allows manual shifting among the plural shift positions during the drive mode according to an operation of a shift pedal. The N/D changeover switch and the hand-operated shift switch are arranged around a handlebar of the motorcycle. The shift control section is operable to switch between the neutral state and the drive mode by the foot operated shift control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130133458
    Abstract: A device for controlling a device for locking a motor-vehicle gear change in a parking condition includes a transmission which connects the gear change lever to a driven member movable between an operative position and an inoperative position, respectively for engagement and disengagement of the locking, device. The transmission is connected to the driven member through a rotatable drum with a cylindrical surface having a cam-track cooperating with, a cam-following element, The cam-track is designed so as to cause engagement of the locking device when the transmission is subjected to a pulling action or to a pushing action, depending upon the requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Fiat Powertrain Technologies S.p.A
    Inventor: Mario SCAVARDA
  • Publication number: 20130133459
    Abstract: A shift/tilt locking apparatus and method for shift lever of automatic transmission allows a shift knob to slide and tilt to fit the state of a vehicle the driver's intention, or restricts the operation of the shift knob. The apparatus may include a shift knob, a main shaft slidably and rotatably disposed in a housing such that shift knob is slidable; a crossbar having shift knob at the upper end to tilt; a shift restriction means that allows shift knob to slide by selectively restricting sliding of main shaft; and a tilting restriction means controlling shift knob to tilt by selectively restricting the tilting of shift knob by using a third solenoid, which is controlled by a shift mode determining step that determines a shift mode by checking the position of shift knob and a lever locking step that restricts/releases shift knob by selectively operating first solenoid to third solenoid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, SL Corporation, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Jeehyuck Choi, Kwanggi Lee, Dongjae Kim
  • Publication number: 20130133460
    Abstract: A steering column apparatus has a fixed bracket fixed to a vehicle body and having a pair of long holes extending parallel to each other along a backward-and-forward direction; a movable bracket arranged movably in the backward-and-forward direction; a pair of bolts and a pair of nuts for fixing the movable bracket to a rear portion of the fixed bracket so that the movable bracket can move in the backward-and-forward direction with respect to the fixed bracket; a spring plate having pressing portions for holding the movable bracket at the rear portion of the fixed bracket by pressing the fixed bracket against the movable bracket; a shear pin connecting the fixed bracket and the movable bracket at the rear portion of the fixed bracket; and first and second low friction elements. Upon a secondary collision, the movable bracket smoothly moves toward a vehicle front side together with the spring plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: FUJI KIKO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: FUJI KIKO CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130133461
    Abstract: A steering column assembly includes an inner jacket disposed along a longitudinal axis and coupled to a host structure of a vehicle. The steering column assembly also includes an outer jacket arranged co-axially about the inner jacket and the longitudinal axis. The outer jacket is configured to translate along the longitudinal axis relatively to the inner jacket to thereby facilitate telescoping motion of the steering column assembly. The outer surface of the inner jacket and the inner surface of the outer jacket cooperate to define a telescope-inhibiting range of motion of the steering column assembly along the longitudinal axis. The steering column assembly is configured to impose telescope-resisting forces as the length of the steering column assembly decreases within the telescope-inhibiting range of motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: NEXTEER (BEIJING) TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Melvin L. Tinnin, Steven P. Finkbeiner, Michael P. Anspaugh
  • Publication number: 20130133462
    Abstract: A steering device is provided that prevents an inner column from coming out from an outer column even when the inner column is released from being telescopically clamped by the outer column in a state before mounting a vehicle body attaching bracket. Front ends of the telescopic position adjusting long grooves and are brought into contact with an outer peripheral face of a fastening rod at a rear end of a telescopically adjusting position. The fastening rod is moved to a rear side of the vehicle body and an engaging member outwardly fitted to the fastening rod is brought into contact with the collar. The fastening rod cannot be moved to a rear side of the vehicle body further, and the outer column and the vehicle body attaching bracket are prevented from coming out of the inner column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: NSK LTd
    Inventor: Kou Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20130133463
    Abstract: A steering apparatus mounted on a vehicle is small both in dimension in a vehicle widthwise direction and in number of components, the steering apparatus is hard to move a column when a secondary collision occurs and easy to design an impact absorbing mechanism. The steering apparatus is therefore provided with a first rock friction plate 51 and a second rock friction plate 52 to increase frictional faces counteracting an impact force when the secondary collision occurs, thereby augmenting a force of fixing an outer column 11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Seiichi Moriyama
  • Publication number: 20130133464
    Abstract: In an aspect, a parking brake actuator is provided, comprising a mounting bracket, an actuation lever, a cable, a cable reel, a tensioning spring, and a clutch. The mounting bracket is configured for mounting the parking brake actuator to a vehicle. The actuation lever is pivotally mounted to the mounting bracket for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between a rest position and a working position. The cable reel is rotatable about the pivot axis. The cable has an end that is connected to the cable reel. Rotation of the cable reel in a first direction winds cable thereon and rotation of the cable reel in a second direction unwinds cable therefrom. The tensioning spring is connected between the actuation lever and the cable reel configured for taking up slack in the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Magna Closures Inc.
    Inventor: Magna Closures Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130133465
    Abstract: A counterbalanced control stick system for a vehicle comprising: a shaft (2) rotationally mounted in a casing (22) and a joystick (1). Said joystick (1) is pivotably mounted and has a handgrip section (23). The opposed section of said joystick (1) is linked by said resilient means (10, 10.2) to adjustable fixing points (11.1). A plate (11) is provided offset from the joystick (1) is movable relative to said casing (22). The adjustable fixing points (11.1) are controlled by said movable plate (11). An angle sensor (7) is provided for detection of any angular moves of the shaft (2). Electronics (25) are provided to which signals generated by the rotation angle sensors are supplied. The signals are digitized and differing detected values are harmonized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: EUROCOPTER DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: EUROCOPTER DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
  • Publication number: 20130133466
    Abstract: A pedal boss, to which an accelerator pedal is fixed, has a projection-receiving space, which circumferentially extends on a circumferential side of a closing-side end wall in an accelerator-opening direction and receives a projection. When the pedal boss is rotated in an accelerator-closing direction, the pedal boss is rotatable to an accelerator-full-closing position of the pedal boss without being stopped by the projection through engagement with the projection regardless of a rotational position of the projection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Denso Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130133467
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for configuring handlebar grip assemblies useful in associate with handlebars of pedicycles, such as a bicycle. The grip assembly includes a plurality of stretchable grip rings, wherein each of the grip rings is substantially shorter than half of a desired grip length of the handlebar. The internal diameter of each grip ring is smaller than an external diameter of the handlebar. In some embodiments, the grip rings nest and interlock with adjacent grip rings. In other embodiments, the grip rings overlap in a staggered manner with adjacent grip rings. Grips rings can have different shapes, profiles and/or sizes. Grip rings can also have a variety of colors and/or textures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Clinton N. Slone
  • Publication number: 20130133468
    Abstract: A steering device for vehicles, comprising a grip body which can be maneuvered by the user, is connected rotatably to the structure of a vehicle, about a rotation axis, and is connected functionally to elements adapted to impart a change of direction to the vehicle. At least one decorative element is associated with the grip body, bears at least one graphic marking and has, with respect to the structure of the vehicle, a preset reading position, in which the graphic marking can be read by the user. The device further comprises elements adapted to keep the decorative element in the reading position, independently of the angular position assumed by the grip body with respect to the structure of the vehicle about its rotation axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: GUSSI ITALIA S.R.L.
    Inventor: GUSSI ITALIA S.R.L.
  • Publication number: 20130133469
    Abstract: Sidestick controller grips are provided with a base, an elongate column grip extending upwardly from the base, a head at an upper end portion of the grip column, and a thumb rest surface extending laterally and upwardly relative to the column grip. The thumb rest surface may be supported by a concave outwardly extending support wall which joins the thumbrest surface at a generally serpentine edge which may extend generally outwardly convexly from a lower region thereof at the column grip to a convex apex region, and then extends from the apex region generally upwardly and concavely to an upper region thereof at the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: EMBRAER S.A.
    Inventors: Hans Jorg REY, Luiz Fernando Silva de CASTRO PAIVA, Celso Aparecido Cruz GUEIROS, Rogério de CERQUEIRA LARIO, Bruno Kimura CASTANHA