Movable Or Disengageable On Impact Or Overload Patents (Class 248/900)
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Patent number: 6540196Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a support structure having a first post and a second post, where the breakaway coupling has a first plate coupled to the first post, a second plate coupled to the second post and breakably coupled to the first plate, and a bearing positioned between the first plate and the second plate having a bearing member located in an opening of the bearing housing and contacting at least one of the first and second plates.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2002Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: Western Highway Products, Inc.Inventor: Steven James Ellsworth
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Patent number: 6532616Abstract: The invention concerns a wiper device comprising at least a plate guiding in rotation and fixing a shaft extending axially (X—X) outwards by its free end wherein the plate comprises a stem in which the driving shaft is guided in rotation and a transverse sole plate for fixing it on the vehicle body via a shock-absorbing unit. The invention is characterized in that the shock-absorbing unit is mounted in a housing matching the sole plate partially open along a direction substantially parallel to the driving shaft axis (X—X) to enable, in case of a violent impact, the shock-absorbing unit to be released from its housing thereby causing the axial retraction of the sole plate, the guide stem and the driving shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1999Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Systemes d'Essuyage et Moteurs ElectriquesInventor: Jean-Pierre Eustache
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Patent number: 6533425Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable rear-view mirror for motor vehicles. Said rear-view mirror comprises a fixed base, a swiveling mirror unit and a rotation driving unit composed of a motor and a transmission. In order to minimize the friction losses while requiring a minimal space and providing a favorable assembling shape: a) the transmission of the rotation driving unit is a harmonic drive transmission having a central axis which is coaxial with the rotation axis of the mirror unit; b) said voltage wave transmission contains an eccentric means in its transmission casing, an elastic annular gear and two driven links which co-operate with said annular ring and have a different number of teeth; c) the eccentric means has a toothed work which engages the pinion gear of said motor; d) one driven link engages the base and the other driven link engages the mirror unit. The eccentric means is placed inside the elastic annular ring and the two driven links are placed outside of the elastic annular ring.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Magna Auteca AgInventors: Peter Schillegger, Bernhard Schadler
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Patent number: 6522451Abstract: This invention provides a plano-multiradius reflective element assembly suitable for use in an exterior sideview mirror assembly mounted to the side body of an automobile. The plano-multiradius reflective element assembly includes a plano reflective element which has a rearward field of view, when mounted in an exterior sideview mirror assembly mounted to the side body of an automobile, with unit magnification. The plano-multiradius reflective element assembly also includes an auxiliary reflective element including a multiradius portion with a rearward field of view. The plano reflective element provides a distortion-free rearward field of view and serves as the principal rearward-viewing portion of the plano-multiradius reflective element assembly. The multiradius portion provides a wide angle rearward field of view, and typically supplements the rearward field of view of the plano portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2000Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20030019999Abstract: A safety device may be used to provide separation in the event of a side impact collision. The device may be used in a utility pole guy wire system, interposed between the guy wire and the ground anchor. The device operates in bending. A lateral force of sufficient magnitude applied to the device by the errant vehicle causes a rod within the device to break in tension, even though the tensile strength of the rod may be greater than that of the guy wire. In operation, certain massive portions of the device are tied safely to the ground, while other portions are pulled over the moving vehicle by the tension of the guy wire. The invention may be designed to tolerate axial loads, but to fail reliably when a side force exceeds a desired threshold. When installed in series with a utility pole guy wire, the invention will withstand all normal tensile and incidental loads, and will release when subjected to a high side force as from an automobile impact.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2002Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventors: John L. Hill, Joram Shenhar, Stephen G. Solga, Donald B. Harris, Eugene L. Foster, Carol A. Horowitz
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Patent number: 6505943Abstract: This invention relates to a retraction and extension mechanism for extending or retracting a set of telescopic supports that connect a mirror head (10) to a mirror mounting bracket (11). It comprises a mirror mounting bracket (11) with a first tube (18) projecting from the mounting bracket (11). The mirror head (10) has a support (19) projecting from it that locates into and slides back and forth within the first tube (18). A roller (34) is mounting with respect to the support (19) and cable (29) is attached at one end with respect to the first tube (18) and a point between the roller (34) and the mirror head (10). It extends to and around the roller (34) and into the mirror head (10). The other end of the cable (29) extends into and is attached with respect to the first tube (18). A capstan (31) is located within the mirror head (10) and engages the cable (29).Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Mark Olijnyk, Gary Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Paul Van De Loo, Simon Orme
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Publication number: 20020181129Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
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Patent number: 6467208Abstract: An overhead lighted exit sign and mounting includes a substantially rectangular box shaped sign housing with an electric light therein. A substantially cylindrically shaped two part hollow hinge is mounted on the top wall of the housing with one part fixed to the housing. The second part of the hinge is secured to a plate adapted to be secured to an overhead electrical box. Apertures are formed in the top wall of the housing, the two parts of the hinge and the plate to allow electrical wires to pass from the electrical box to the electric light within the sign without being exposed. The hinge allows the sign to pivot out of the way in the event that it is struck by an object being carried therebelow without the sign being broken from its support or otherwise being damaged.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Inventor: David Patterson
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Publication number: 20020121035Abstract: The invention provides a portable, collapsible sign stand assembly in which a sign is suspended from a support tube. The support tube is connected to a support base through a connecting member which includes a plurality of weakening members which cause the connecting member to fail upon impact. In other embodiments, the support tube is weakened by weakening members so as to fail upon impact. In one embodiment, the weakened portions are placed under tension.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2001Publication date: September 5, 2002Applicant: Dicke Tool CompanyInventors: Grant D. Dicke, James G. Kokenas, Donald E. Hans
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Patent number: 6421873Abstract: A wiper bracket (10) with a hollow profile (64, 72, 74) is provided for fastening a wiper motor, via a motor receptable (24), and at least one wiper bearing (12, 14) for fastening a windshield wiper to a vehicle body. A longitudinally elastically resilient region (60, 62) is disposed between the motor receptacle (24) and the wiper bearing (12, 14).Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1999Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Joachim Zimmer
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Patent number: 6408590Abstract: A breakaway utility pole preferably made from plastic material. The pole includes a first portion buried in the ground and protruding therefrom. A second elongated portion is interfitted into the first portion above the ground, and is designed to fracture upon impact by a car or truck. The pole includes an upper portion, interfitted into the second portion, and which carries the utility wires. When the second portion is fractured, it can be removed and replaced.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1998Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignees: Armand G. Cote, Jr., Armand G. Cote, IIIInventor: Armand Cote
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Publication number: 20020075578Abstract: A vehicle door mirror having a housing. The housing connects to a vehicle door via a stem. An intermediate member is inserted between the housing and the vehicle door to effect relatively smooth abutment between the intermediate member and each of the housing and the vehicle door. The cylindrical stem extends from the housing through the intermediate member and through the vehicle door. The stem includes primary engagement members to engage with complementary engagement members formed in a mounting hole of the door. The engagement members prevent removal from the mounting hole when the stem is in a predetermined orientation. A spring is compressed between the housing and the stem to cause retraction of the stem inward of the housing. Such inward movement urges the primary engagement members into engagement with the complementary engagement members.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2002Publication date: June 20, 2002Applicant: Britax Wingard LimitedInventors: Andrew J. Assinder, Graham Rehill
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Publication number: 20020075577Abstract: A manually foldable door mirror has a stand, a bracket which is supported by the stand, and a mirror portion which is fixed to the bracket. A first surface is formed on the stand. A support shaft extends from the stand. A first projection and a second projection are located on the first surface at a predetermined interval with respect to an axis of the support shaft. A second surface is formed on the bracket. A first recess and a second recess are located on the second surface at a predetermined interval with respect to the axis of the support shaft. When the first projection fits in the first recess and the second projection faces to the second recess, the mirror portion is held at the normal position. When the second projection fits in the first recess and the first projection faces to the second recess, the mirror portion is held at the folded position. A circumferential width of the second recess is greater than those of the first and second projections. A spring urges the bracket to the stand.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Yasunori Hattori, Bunji Inagaki
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Patent number: 6405991Abstract: A support pole including a baseplate attached to a footing and having a central opening formed therein. A hollow shaft has its lower end received by the central opening in the baseplate. The lower end of the shaft is shaped to provide one or more deformations which facilitate the shaft to baseplate connection.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2000Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.Inventor: Armand A. Damiano
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Patent number: 6394616Abstract: A mirror assembly for use on an automotive vehicle comprises a support base for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. A support arm extends longitudinally between a proximal end pivotally coupled to the support base and an opposite distal end. The mirror assembly further includes a housing coupled to the support arm and slidable between a retracted position adjacent to the proximal end and an extended position adjacent to the distal end and spaced from the proximal end. A glass mirror pane is operatively coupled to the housing for providing a reflective view from the mirror assembly. The mirror assembly also includes a drive mechanism coupled between the support arm and the housing for providing both power actuated and manual sliding movement of the housing along the support arm between the retracted position and the extended position.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems, Inc.Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy, Kenneth C. Peterson
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Patent number: 6390630Abstract: An outside rear view mirror for a motor vehicle, with a mirror foot to be fixed to the motor vehicle and a mirror head, whereby the mirror head, which carries a mirror glass, can be swivelled around a swivel axis relative to the mirror foot between a driving position (F) and a park position (P) by a drive, and is fixed to the mirror foot with a swivel joint, can be folded against the motor vehicle from an operating position (F to P) under a force acting externally on the mirror head, whereby a cooperation between parts fixed to the mirror foot and mirror head can be disengaged in order to avoid damage to the drive. The outside rear view mirror has a rapid synchronization of the cooperation between parts when the mirror has been folded manually.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Bühler Motor GmbHInventor: Lothar Ochs
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Patent number: 6382583Abstract: A safety device may be used to provide separation in the event of a side impact collision. The device may be used in a utility pole guy wire system, interposed between the guy wire and the ground anchor. The device operates in bending. A lateral force of sufficient magnitude applied to the device by the errant vehicle causes a rod within the device to break in tension, even though the tensile strength of the rod may be greater than that of the guy wire. In operation, certain massive portions of the device are tied safely to the ground, while other portions are pulled over the moving vehicle by the tension of the guy wire. The invention may be designed to tolerate axial loads, but to fail reliably when a side force exceeds a desired threshold. When installed in series with a utility pole guy wire, the invention will withstand all normal tensile and incidental loads, and will release when subjected to a high side force as from an automobile impact.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: UTD IncorporatedInventors: John L. Hill, III, Joram Shenhar, Stephen G. Solga, Donald B. Harris, Eugene L. Foster
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Patent number: 6375129Abstract: A cable holder for attachment of cables in a vehicle structure is formed as an elongated plate provided with indicator markings at predetermined spacing along longitudinal edges of the plate so that the plate can be divided into plate segments of determined length at the markings. Two rows of retainer elements which form open loops at the upper surface of the plate are provided. The retainer elements are adapted to secure the connectors of the cables to the plate. The retainer elements in one row are longitudinally offset from the retainer elements of the other row such that a retainer element in one row extends between two retainer elements in the other row.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Assignee: Eads Deutschland GmbHInventor: Siegmund Koziol
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Patent number: 6371619Abstract: A vehicle door mirror having a housing. The housing connects to a vehicle door via a stem. An intermediate member is inserted between the housing and the vehicle door to effect relatively smooth abutment between the intermediate member and each of the housing and the vehicle door. The cylindrical stem extends from the housing through the intermediate member and through the vehicle door. The stem includes primary engagement members to engage with complementary engagement members formed in a mounting hole of the door. The engagement members prevent removal from the mounting hole when the stem is in a predetermined orientation. A spring is compressed between the housing and the stem to cause retraction of the stem inward of the housing. Such inward movement urges the primary engagement members into engagement with the complementary engagement members.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Britax Wingard LimitedInventors: Andrew J. Assinder, Graham Rehill
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Patent number: 6371618Abstract: A single shell side-view mirror assembly is disclosed which provides improved aerodynamic features and improved vibrational resistance characterized by an aerodynamically domed shell structure, interchangeable mirror elements, an electrically activated vibration dampening element and a static vibration dampening elements. A mirror unit of the mirror assembly is disposed within a shell housing but is coupled directly to and supported by a support member mounting plate such that the mirror unit is substantially rigidly coupled to a support member without being supported by the shell housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Rosco Inc.Inventors: Sol Englander, Benjamin Englander
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Patent number: 6334600Abstract: A stepless slide adjuster having a safety lock includes a first member and a second member, which can move relatively to each other, a nut fastened to the first member, a screw rotatably attached to the second member and screwed into the nut, a manual locking device for manually locking the screw, and an emergency locking device having a brake drum and brake shoes for emergency locking the screw. The lead angle of the nut and the screw is set to be larger than the friction angle between them. When the locking with the manual locking device is released, and the screw rotates with an acceleration or a speed that exceeds a predetermined value, then the brake shoes spread and frictionally engage the brake drum, thereby impeding a relative movement between the first member and the second member.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2000Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Assignee: Delta Tooling Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yutaka Sakamoto
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Patent number: 6325518Abstract: An extendable exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror subassembly, a bracket which is adapted for mounting to a vehicle, and a support which mounts the mirror subassembly to the bracket. Support extends into the housing which is movable along the support. The housing includes a retracted position and at lease one outboard position, which define a direction of extension. The mirror assembly further includes a drive assembly which is supported in the housing and drivingly coupled to the support. The drive assembly selectively moves the housing along the support. The mirror assembly further includes a clutch mechanism which drivingly decouples the drive assembly from the support when a force of sufficient magnitude is applied to the housing in the direction of extension such that the housing can be manually moved along the support.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Peter John Whitehead, Michiel Pieter van de Ven
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Patent number: 6289638Abstract: An apparatus for creating a void under a structural concrete slab which includes a body having a bottom surface with projections which deform and then collapse after a preset displacement in response to subgrade compressive stress.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Beaver Plastics Ltd.Inventor: Robert Eugene Vasseur
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Patent number: 6286385Abstract: A shift lever device includes a shift lever which allows selection of an arbitrary shift range by shift operation and which is rotatably supported by a structure that breaks when an axial impact force above a preselected magnitude is applied to the shift lever. The breakage of the supporting structure allows safer absorption of an impact force applied to the shift lever. The breakable supporting structure may take the form of a portion of a thin portion of a circular wall forming a bearing that rotatably supports the shift lever, or a frangible pin or bracket that pivotably supports the shift lever.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1997Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-SeisakushoInventors: Masaya Nishimura, Kazuhiro Sato, Masaki Fujita, Yoshitaka Watanabe, Hitoshi Kanazawa, Noriyasu Shamoto
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Patent number: 6276805Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1999Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
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Patent number: 6233898Abstract: A reflective mounting member mountable to a traffic sign post to augment the warning capability of the sign post or to provide a text message, the sign post being defined by a rear wall, divergent side walls extending from said rear wall and terminating in opposing planar flanges thereby defining a U-shaped longitudinal channel, the mounting member having a U-shaped channel formed therein such that it mates about the exterior of the U-shaped channel of the traffic sign post and is mounted thereto.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Inventor: Albert A. Burlando
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Patent number: 6216309Abstract: A wiper device for a vehicle disclosed is provided with a wiper motor, a wiper pivot connected to the wiper motor, and a wiper frame in which the wiper pivot is arranged. In this case, the wiper pivot can rotate around the pivot axis thereof by using a drive force from the wiper motor, and the wiper pivot extends so as to project toward an outer side of the vehicle body. Further, the wiper frame has a bracket portion fixing the wiper frame to the vehicle body. Then, in the structure mentioned above, it is constructed in such a manner that the bracket portion of the wiper frame is released from the vehicle body so as to move the wiper pivot to an inner side of the vehicle body when a load equal to or more than a predetermined value acts on the wiper pivot.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Jidosha Denki Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masami Goto, Toshio Kobayashi, Hiroshi Ohsaki, Hiroshi Kojima, Masaaki Shimuba
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Patent number: 6216413Abstract: A collapsible post structure having a fragile region that allows the post to collapse when the latter is struck. The post structure includes an elongated anchoring member. The anchoring member having an anchoring member hollow section that extends longitudinally into one longitudinal end thereof and defining an anchoring member inner surface. The post structure also includes an elongated supporting member. The supporting member having a supporting member hollow section that extends longitudinally into one longitudinal end thereof and defining a supporting member inner surface. The post structure further includes a connecting component, the connecting component having a connecting component first section and a connecting component second section. The connecting component first section and the connecting component second section are configured and sized so as to be respectively insertable into the anchoring member hollow section and the supporting member hollow section.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Inventor: Jean Lapointe
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Patent number: 6213609Abstract: A mirror assembly for use on an automotive vehicle comprises a support base for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. A support arm extends longitudinally between a proximal end pivotally coupled to the support base and an opposite distal end. The mirror assembly further includes a housing coupled to the support arm and slidable between a retracted position adjacent to the proximal end and an extended position adjacent to the distal end and spaced from the proximal end. A glass mirror pane is operatively coupled to the housing for providing a reflective view from the mirror assembly. The mirror assembly also includes a drive mechanism coupled between the Support arm and the housing for providing, both power actuated and manual sliding movement of the housing along the support arm between the retracted position and the extended position.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems Inc.Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy, Kenneth C. Peterson
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Patent number: 6133704Abstract: An electric driving device which rotates a visor with respect to a stay, and includes a visor side ring having an inclined surface and a stay side ring having an inclined surface. When the visor is rotated from a using position to a housing position, the inclined surfaces ride on each other to securely form a predetermined gap between the stay and the visor. Meanwhile, when the visor is rotated from the housing position to the using position, the inclined surfaces slide down each other so that the gap between the stay and the visor approaches zero.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1999Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Shigeki Yoshida, Kenichi Hayashi
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Patent number: 6131873Abstract: An energy absorbing high impact cable device having a ring damper with first and second ends for attachment to at least one mesh net panel. The damper further includes a retainer for retaining the first and second ends, and to maintain a circular damper according to a predetermined stiffness for impact restraint. The ring damper further includes a cover, which is hermetically sealed around the cable to prevent degradation. A cable-to-loop fastener mechanically secures the cable device to at least one mesh net panel to form a linked arrangement. This particular arrangement translates absorbed energy within a plane of the panels to prevent structural deformation within the device due to rolling rock energies beyond a predetermined magnitude.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Inventors: Fred R. Blazon, Robert Bookwater
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Patent number: 6130514Abstract: An electrically operable pivoting mechanism (10) for causing a mirror housing (3) of a wing mirror to pivot. The mirror housing can be brought from any position into any other position manually, and can be brought from any position into the normal operational position electrically by means of the mechanism (10). The mechanism (10) has a construction which is simple an an therefor be easily manufactured. The mechanism comprises a plurality of arcuate grooves and corresponding configured projections engaging the grooves for defining the extreme positions of the mirror housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: IKU Holding Montfoort B.V.Inventors: Goran Bernd Oesterholt, Adrianus Johannes Blom, Stefan Frits Brouwer, Albertus van Zanten
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Patent number: 6113241Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly, especially suited for towing vehicles, includes a dual purpose spring that provides a break-away feature and holds a mirror subassembly in one of a plurality of positions along a mounting arm. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a housing supporting a reflective element, a mounting bracket adapted for mounting to a vehicle, and an arm supporting the housing and mounted to the mounting bracket. The arm is adapted to pivot about the mounting bracket between a normal operating position and a folded, break-away position and includes a spring cooperating with the arm to selectively bias the arm into frictional engagement with the housing to hold the housing and mirror-subassembly in a fixed position along the arm and with the mounting bracket to hold the arm in one of the two positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Steven G. Hoek
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Patent number: 6109597Abstract: A highway guardrail terminal system having horizontally extending guardrail elements mounted on a plurality of posts. An anchor cable release bracket attached to a rail element by sleeved mounting bolts has an arrangement of slots and openings to quickly release an anchor cable system from the guardrail.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Safety By Design, Inc.Inventors: Dean L. Sicking, John D. Reid, John R. Rohde
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Patent number: 6106122Abstract: A rear view mirror assembly comprising a bracket adapted to be mounted on a vehicle body, and a case, in which a reflective member is pivotally mounted. A lead screw is mounted in the bracket. A pair of arms projecting laterally from the reflective member beyond the periphery thereof and have ridge formations which engage with the lead screw so that rotation of the lead screw causes angular movement of the reflective member.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1999Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Britax Rainsfords Pty. Ltd.Inventors: Robert William Gilbert, Garry Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Ingmar Manfred Birgden
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Patent number: 6065894Abstract: A coupling unit for connecting respective segments of a roadside post includes respective end portions (20a,20b) adapted to engage in or about the segments and an intermediate fracture zone (45) in which the coupling unit divides to cause the post segments to separate when the assembled post is subjected in situ to a vehicle impact greater than a predetermined severity.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Inventors: Lance David Wasson, Gary James Melrose
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Patent number: 6062100Abstract: A connection between a collapsible mast jacket of an energy absorbing steering column and a body of a motor vehicle including a mounting bracket on the mast jacket having a planar flange parallel to a longitudinal centerline of the steering column, a V-shaped slot in the planar flange, and a V-shaped capsule in the V-shaped slot clamped rigidly to the body of the motor vehicle. A pair of channels in converging sides of the V-shaped capsule receive corresponding edges of the V-shaped slot for vertical support of the mast jacket on the vehicle body. The V-shaped capsule is retained on the mounting bracket by a pair of integral lugs on opposite sides of the V-shaped capsule seated in retaining notches in the edges of the V-shaped slot. Impact forces on the steering column fracture the integral lugs to release the mast jacket for energy absorbing collapse.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Robert Allen Sarsfield, James Salois, Richard Kremer Riefe
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Patent number: 5966255Abstract: An escape device for an inner mirror includes a stay base mounted on a ceiling of a cabin of a vehicle a stay suspended from and supported by the stay base and connected to the stay base pivotably about an axis extending horizontally in the direction of width of the vehicle, the stay having a mirror body attached to a lower portion thereof, and a stop mechanism provided between the stay base and the stay for stopping the pivotal movement of the stay about the axis relative to the stay base and thereby holding the stay in a suspended state in a normal mode of use and, when an external force exceeding a predetermined value is applied to the stay in the forward direction of the vehicle, disengaging the stay by the external force to allow the pivotal movement of the stay about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1998Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: Murakami CorporationInventors: Toshihiro Mochizuki, Yoshitake Nakazawa, Satoshi Iwama, Hiroshi Teramoto, Jun Hanai
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Patent number: 5959790Abstract: A breakaway mirror assembly includes a housing forming a cavity therein. The housing has an opening in an end thereof. An applique is fixedly coupled to the door of an automotive vehicle. A pairs of springs has one end mounted to the applique on a pair of spring mounts. The other end of springs extend into the housing through the opening in the housing. An elongated bracket is connected to the opposite end of each spring. The spring force applied to the housing through the bracket holds the housing to the applique during operation of the automotive vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Harman Automotive, Inc.Inventor: Heinrich J. Hempelmann
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Patent number: 5957425Abstract: A breakaway safety sign support post for obtaining predictable and reliable separation of an upper post section from a lower post section anchored in a substrate, when the post is struck by a vehicle. In a specific construction, the lower post section is adapted to be imbedded in the ground, with an upper end projecting a predetermined limited distance above the surface of the ground. The upper, post section is secured in overlapping, parallel relationship with the lower post section and is secured thereto with frangible fasteners to define a breakaway joint. The post sections each have a U-shaped transverse cross-sectional shape, including a longitudinal center web with a plurality of holes spaced uniformly along its length, and outwardly divergent side walls at opposite sides of the web, terminating in laterally outwardly projecting flanges.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1996Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: The Marion Steel CompanyInventors: Steven J. Conway, Frederick Mauer, IV
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Patent number: 5949591Abstract: A vehicle exterior rearview mirror assembly provides a break-away housing which exhibits increased dampening, reduce vibration, and consistent break-away force while requiring simplified tooling to manufacture. The mirror assembly includes a housing having a reflective element supported and a mounting bracket adapted for mounting to a vehicle. The mounting bracket includes a pivot extending between the mounting bracket and the housing, for pivotally mounting the housing to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket and housing include a plurality of detent assemblies for releasably coupling the housing to the mounting bracket. At least two detent assemblies have a longitudinal extent which is substantially parallel to a line which extends through a center of rotation of the pivot. Preferably, the at least two detent assemblies are positioned on opposite sides of the pivot and are positioned on opposed sides of mounting bracket.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1997Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Peter J. Whitehead
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Patent number: 5940230Abstract: A power folding mirror assembly has a mirror housing that defines a cavity therein. An applique is mounted proximate the mirror housing. The applique has a pivot arm extending into the mirror housing. The pivot arm has a pivot point thereon. The mirror housing is coupled to the pivot arm at the pivot point. A housing arm extends from the mirror housing. A motor mounted within the vehicle has a drive gear coupled thereto. A gear mechanism is coupled between the housing arm and the drive gear so that as the motor rotates, the pivot gear causes the mirror housing to pivot about the pivot point.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Harman Automotive, Inc.Inventor: Robert M. Crandall
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Patent number: 5931440Abstract: A regulated attachment for mounting a rearview mirror to a button having a surface thereon secured to a surface of a vehicle windshield. The button has lateral side surfaces facing away from each other and toward the windshield to define a groove therewith. The bracket includes a body member having a rearview mirror supporting structure thereon and a mounting for a spring clip. The spring clip includes side walls for gripping and securing the body member to the button. The spring clip further includes an elongated base portion and longitudinally extending and laterally spaced resilient side flanges projecting from the base portion and away from the body member. Each of the side flanges extend parallel to a respective side surface and define a tongue adapted to be slidably received in a corresponding one of the grooves in a tongue and groove fashion.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1996Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventor: Jeffrey A. Miller
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Patent number: 5909920Abstract: An anchor plate (2) mounted on the outside (15) of an inner vehicle body panel (8) having an elongate member with first, second and third holes (22,24,26) aligned on the plate (2), the second hole (22) being disposed between the first and third holes (24,26), and closer to the first hole (24) the third hole (26), the first hole (24) being directed to the front of the vehicle and the third hole (26) being directed to the rear of the vehicle. First, second and third nuts (32,34,36) are aligned with the first, second and third holes (22,24,26), respectively, for receiving respective bolts and screws (16,18,20) which fix the anchor plate (2) to the inner vehicle body panel (8).Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1995Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Assignee: Telstra Corporation LimitedInventor: Nicholas Dalinkiewicz
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Patent number: 5904115Abstract: An assembly, preferably comprising a clearance pole, includes a first pole element with a first horizontal portion and a second vertical portion, and a second tubular pole element mounted to the ground, extending vertically, and receiving the first pole second portion. The first and second pole elements are mounted so that the first element is rotatable with respect to the second about a vertical axis. The slanted surface of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene block acts as a cam follower engaging a rod, bar, or tube which acts as a cam, the structures biasing the first pole element first portion to a home position. A dry lubricant is provided between the pole element bearing surfaces to provide relatively friction-free rotation between them.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1996Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: Lincoln Industries Division of Progress Rail ServicesInventors: Michael Wayne Durbin, Michael J. Winn
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Patent number: 5903402Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly, especially suited for towing vehicles, includes a dual purpose spring that provides a break-away feature and holds a mirror subassembly in one of a plurality of positions along a mounting arm. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a housing supporting a reflective element, a mounting bracket adapted for mounting to a vehicle, and an arm supporting the housing and mounted to the mounting bracket. The arm is adapted to pivot about the mounting bracket between a normal operating position and a folded, break-away position and includes a spring cooperating with the arm to selectively bias the arm into frictional engagement with the housing to hold the housing and mirror-subassembly in a fixed position along the arm and with the mounting bracket to hold the arm in one of the two positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Steven G. Hoek
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Patent number: 5887842Abstract: A sign post is formed of a lower support component for anchoring within terrain, leaving an exposed upper portion at the surface of such terrain. The support component includes an array of longitudinally regularly spaced apertures. An upper support component having the same regular spacing of apertures is attached to the lower component at the exposed portion through the utilization of a splicing technique. The splice is formed as a stress transfer component having two strategically positioned boltways therein. These boltways are spaced apart longitudinally a distance representing an even integer of the upper and lower component aperture spacings. The boltways are configured having a small threaded region adjacent one surface. Bolts having a threadless shank and threaded region therebelow are slidably inserted through one of the components into the stress transfer whereupon they are rotated for preassembly engagement with the minor threaded regions of the stress transfer component.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1997Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Inventor: Mark S. Granger
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Patent number: 5880895Abstract: An external mirror arrangement is provided including a holder for attachment to a truck vehicle body and for supporting at least one mirror. The holder includes a support arm pivotably secured to the vehicle body and a tie-bar releaseably coupled to the support arm and also attached to the vehicle body. The arrangements provides a releasable coupling that may be readily attached and reattached. A specific embodiment includes an interlocking groove and connection head providing the releasable coupling.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: MEKRA Lang GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Albrecht Popp
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Patent number: 5875578Abstract: A portable sign stand with rollers and an adjustable weighted base. The base member has one or more compartments so that liquid or solid ballast can be added to stabilize the sign stand in windy conditions. Wheels are provided on one edge of the base member in order to allow the sign stand to be rolled and easily moved to different positions. The axle member for the wheels is held in place on the base member by a bracket member which also helps secure the sign member to the base member. A pair of springs, resilient members, or the like can be used to connect the sign member to the base in order to provide a better wind-resistant sign stand.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1997Date of Patent: March 2, 1999Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.Inventor: Ronald E. Grewe
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Patent number: 5867328Abstract: An external mirror for a motor vehicle includes a mirror base attachable to the vehicle, a mirror head which bears a mirror, which head can be rotated relative to the base by a motor, and which is mounted on the mirror base by an articulation, and when subjected to an impulse can yield in a deflection direction in which it is tilted toward the vehicle from the operating position of the mirror head. The articulation includes a tubular element fixed to the mirror base, and the articulation further has a bushing which is pressed coaxially over the tubular element by a spring, and a mechanism for limiting the rotational excursion of the mirror head around the tubular element.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Hohe GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Armin Stapp, Edwin Seitz