Accessible From Within Passenger Compartment Patents (Class 296/37.8)
  • Publication number: 20090096240
    Abstract: A trash management apparatus in a vehicle includes a recessed portion, a moveable upper drawer, and a stationary lower bin. The drawer moves in one direction within the recessed portion to direct trash into the stationary lower bin. The drawer has a through-opening allowing trash to pass into the lower bin when the drawer is moved in the one direction, with the bin being removable via an access door in an exposed lateral surface of the center console. A sensor detects a presence or level of trash within the bin or the drawer, and an indicator illuminates when a predetermined amount or level of trash is detected. An actuator is alternately connected to the upper drawer to move the drawer in the one direction when a sensor determines that trash in the drawer exceeds a threshold level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew J. Hanzel
  • Patent number: 7516996
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a ceiling, a cradle secured within the ceiling of the vehicle, the cradle including a first end and a second end, and a video system selectively secured to the cradle, the video system including a base having a first end and a second end. The vehicle also includes an identification system ensuring the video system is compatible with the video system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Publication number: 20090091152
    Abstract: A vehicular storage device provided in opposed relation to a passenger seat. A convex part, protruding from a rear surface of a lid in a direction opposite from a vehicle occupant, has a deformation allowance part that deforms when an impact is applied to the convex part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toru Matsui, Toshikazu Kamioka
  • Patent number: 7513553
    Abstract: A storage system for an automotive vehicle includes a storage module having opposing sidewalls and a primary storage compartment situated between the opposing sidewalls. A repositionable bin has a first position in which it is mounted at least partially within the primary storage compartment and at least one secondary position in which the repositionable bin is removably mounted to an interior surface of the vehicle, such as upon an exterior surface of the storage module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kaushlendra Singh, Peter Bejin, Michael Whitens
  • Patent number: 7513554
    Abstract: A cup holder of rotary type has a holder part provided on a back face of a lid body. A support part which is urged so as to move apart from the holder part and pivotally connected to the holder part at its one end will move up and down along with opening and closing motions of the lid body. It is possible to realize the cup holder having high holding performance for a tall container without requiring a large storing space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeru Miyanowaki, Katsuhiro Katagiri
  • Publication number: 20090079214
    Abstract: An upper cover has an engagement edge, a bottom cover has a receiving edge where the engagement edge is inserted, and the engagement edge is inserted into the receiving edge. The receiving edge has a groove where the leading end of the engagement edge is inserted, the engagement edge has a stopper surface, which serves as a stopper part, on the outer surface toward the basal end side, and the groove has a stopper receiving surface, which serves as a stopper receiving part and catches the stopper surface, on one side internal surface toward the basal end side. As the leading end of the engagement edge is inserted into the groove of the receiving edge and the stopper surface is caught by the stopper receiving surface, the engagement edge of the upper cover and the receiving edge of the bottom cover are joined together without any separation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Makoto Takeuchi, Hiroshi Izawa
  • Publication number: 20090072565
    Abstract: A console and armrest assembly for a vehicle includes a console base defining a first storage area and a first storage opening for providing access to the first storage area. A first intermediate member is configured to selectively close the first storage area opening. The first intermediate member defines a second storage area in a second storage area opening for providing access to the second storage area. A second intermediate member is configured to selectively close the second storage area opening. The second intermediate member defines a third storage area and a third storage area opening for providing access to the third storage area. An armrest cover is configured to selectively close the third storage area opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Rudy M. Mayne, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090072568
    Abstract: A guard for a sliding lid that acts as a cover for a cargo area of a center console. The center console includes a bottom, sidewalls, a front wall, and a back wall. Movement of the sliding lid is slidingly restricted by guide rails. The guard includes a body and a wiper section that has a contact edge. The guard is secured to the center console and disposed above the sliding lid and prevents objects from riding on the sliding lid past the guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Neal W. Luginbill, David Salmonowicz
  • Patent number: 7503608
    Abstract: Provided is a lead-in structure of a front console side panel for guiding the assembly thereof to a driver side lower panel. The lead-in structure includes a substrate having an elongated aperture and a plurality of lead-in bumps, whereas the lead-in bumps are spaced apart and aligned in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aperture. The lead-in bumps collectively have a lead-in surface and are connected onto the substrate and separated from the aperture by a distance. The lead-in bumps optionally are merged to form a singly elongated bump. The angle between the lead-in surface and the aperture is greater than 90 degree, preferably greater than 110 degrees, and more preferably greater than 130 degrees. The number of the lead-in bumps aligned is an integer between 2 and 10. Alternatively, the lead-in bumps are resiliently deformable so as to minimize contact friction during panel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Samaneh Shahidehpour
  • Patent number: 7500705
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a ceiling, a cradle secured within the ceiling of the vehicle and a video system selectively secured to the cradle for movement between a use position and a storage position. The video system includes a base shaped and dimensioned for selectively coupling with the cradle. The base includes a first hinge facilitating rotation of the video system, wherein the first hinge includes a safety lock preventing movement of the video system from the second storage position to the first use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Publication number: 20090058122
    Abstract: An overhead console (10) spanning the header above the windshield (150) includes support for a removable electronic device (120).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2005
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Kevin Nutt, Sandro Ramos
  • Patent number: 7494172
    Abstract: A compartment, such as a glove compartment of a motor vehicle includes a lid and a movable drawer. A lever system is operatively coupled between the lid and the drawer such that upon opening or closing the lid, the drawer is moved. The lever system may provide a transmission ratio so that optimum adaptation to the spatial conditions is possible. Furthermore, it is possible to pull the storage drawer relatively far forwards even when the compartment lid is only opened slightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Lisa Dräxlmaier GmbH
    Inventors: Anoma Herterich, Franz Reischer, Martin Huber, Karl-Heinz Greiβl
  • Patent number: 7494170
    Abstract: An instrument panel for a vehicle defines a cavity. A storage console is selectively movable within the cavity to provide enhanced accessibility of stored items within the storage console. In an exemplary embodiment, the storage console is a drawer that is selectively movable from a stowed position inside the cavity to an extended position outside the cavity for access by a vehicle user in a passenger compartment. In another exemplary embodiment, the console is movable between an elevated position in which the console occupies space inaccessible to a vehicle user, and a lowered position in which the console is accessible through an opening in the instrument panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew J. Hanzel, Joseph W. Cobble, III, Steven E. Morris, Adrian B. Chernoff, James T. Embach, Adrian Oana, Frederick I. Johnson, Lawrence E. Sully
  • Patent number: 7490887
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a ceiling with a headliner, a cradle secured within the ceiling of the vehicle and a video system selectively secured to the cradle for movement between a use position and a storage position. Side edges of the video system are exposed with no surrounding structure when in its storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Patent number: 7490886
    Abstract: A console storage housing for use in a sports type automobile such as a late model CORVETTE produced in the model years from 1997 to 2005 and beyond (Generations C5 and C6 CORVETTE). The console includes openings for storing numerous items carried into an automobile that need convenient and secure retention (i.e. eyeglasses, cellular phones, garage door openers, coins, maps, and beverages). The attachment of the console is accomplished in such a manner to not alter the automobile's original construction. The design utilizes the existing interior component surfaces for mounting. The console emulates the surrounding interior components' surface finishes so as to seamlessly blend into the interior of the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Gary L. Walke
  • Publication number: 20090039126
    Abstract: A retractable cup holder has a tray for receiving a bottom of a cup, a support for holding a barrel of the cup, the support being superimposed on the tray when retracted and being raised up, in use, from the tray to a height necessary for holding the cup. A retainer locks, in use, the support in the raised-up position and is allowed to unlock the support through retraction motion of the cup holder. Thus, in use, the cup is sufficiently held in position and backlash of the support due to vibrations during travel is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: HINO MOTORS, LTD.T
    Inventors: Kyosuke YAMAGISHI, Yuichi Mori
  • Patent number: 7487884
    Abstract: The present invention provides a structure for receiving a door into an upper side when the door of a tray installed at a center facia of an automobile is operated. When the door of the tray is operated, a production of interference between a gearshift lever and other parts is minimized and thus increases spatial utilization. A locking device is installed at a corresponding portion to the housing and the door to selectively open/close the door installed at the front part of the housing. Each of connecting member is formed at both sides of the door to receive a force of opening the door, with the locking device released. A rotary member, having one end hinge connected to the connecting member and the other end provided with peripheral teeth, is rotatably installed to side surface organic the housing. A resilient member rotates the rotary member to move the connecting member, thereby opening the door. A damper member facilitates to open the door with an even speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-seok Kim
  • Patent number: 7481397
    Abstract: The invention relates to a force supporting device (10) for providing a load-dependent supporting force, in particular for a lowerable overhead locker (12) in an aircraft. The device (10) comprises a bracket (20), whose one end is attached to a supporting structure so as to be pivotal about an axis (P) and whose other end is configured for connection to an object to which the supporting force should be applied. There is also a gas-filled spring (22), whose one end is pivotally articulated to the bracket (20) and whose other is pivotally articulated to one end of an oscillating lever (24), whose other end is pivotally attached to a bearing plate (18) and which can pivot relative to the bearing plate (18) between a first end position and a second end position. By means of an arresting device the oscillating lever (24) can be arrested at a plurality of positions in the region of its first end position to the second end position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Steinbeck, Oleg Graf
  • Patent number: 7481477
    Abstract: A rear package tray for hatch back style vehicles is mounted in a trunk compartment of the vehicle such that the rear package tray can be slid back and forth, and can be assembled and disassembled as occasion demands. The rear package tray includes sliding rails fixed to opposite side panels of a trunk compartment of the vehicle, respectively; package tray panels positioned at the sliding rails at opposite ends thereof, connection members mounted at the front and rear ends of the package tray panels, respectively, and utility bars fixed to opposite side parts of the lower surfaces of the package tray panels at opposite ends thereof, each of the utility bars being formed in the shape of a “U.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Young Seon Yang
  • Patent number: 7481475
    Abstract: A console assembly for an automotive vehicle having a housing secured to the vehicle which defines a cavity open at one end of the housing. A drawer support extends outwardly from a lower end of the open end of the housing and at least one track is attached to the drawer support. A drawer has a portion dimensioned to fit within the housing cavity and the drawer is movable between a closed position in which the drawer is positioned within the housing cavity, and an open position in which the drawer overlies the drawer support. At least one shoe is attached to the drawer and slidably mounted to the track so that the shoe slides along the track as the drawer is moved between its open and closed positions. At least one elongated bearing slide assembly is also provided between the drawer and the housing to slidably support the drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lim, Nicholas Earl Merkel
  • Publication number: 20090021036
    Abstract: A vehicle roof mounted video display is disclosed. The display is rotatable 180° about a first axis, between a stored position within a housing and a second position in which the display lies flat against the vehicle roof. The display is also rotatable at least 60°, and preferably 90°, about a second axis that intersects and is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. Each axis includes self-tensioning hinges to hold the display in any position. The display self aligns as it reaches either of the first and second positions so that the display is substantially parallel to the roof. When the display is in the storage position, the display screen faces, and is safely enclosed by, the housing. The invention also includes a number of built-in features to provide passengers with a wide range of entertainment options.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Chung L. Chang
  • Patent number: 7475930
    Abstract: An interior component for a motor vehicle is fixed to the vehicle by way of protrusions to reduce movement in a plane and by way of a tool-free fastener to reduce movement in a direction perpendicular to the plane. The tool-free fastener may Velcro® fastener. The tool-free fastener may allow slight movement along the plane during assembly and may prevent such movement by pressing the two complementary portions of the tool-free fastener toward each other. Employing such a tool-free fastener reduces assembly time. Because the tool-free fastener need not be accessible to tools, the fixation point may be placed at a location ideally suited for load-bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Lisa Dräxlmaier GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Windl, Robert Pusl, Max Bubenhofer
  • Publication number: 20090001747
    Abstract: A folding monitor for vehicles is provided. The folding monitor for vehicles includes: a frame provided in a vehicle body; and a display unit provided at the frame, wherein one end of an arm is hinge-coupled to at least one side of the display unit, and a slot into which the other end of the arm is coupled to rotate is formed in the frame, wherein a rotation motion part and a linear motion part are formed in the slot, and a guide plate inserted into the rotation motion part, rotating and linearly moving along the linear motion part, is formed at an end part of the arm hinge-coupled to the slot. Therefore, noise can be reduced and durability of a product can be improved by preventing the display unit from being separated from the frame and shaken due to vehicle vibration and an external impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Bu Geun Yeo
  • Publication number: 20090001748
    Abstract: A trim assembly for an interior of a passenger compartment of a vehicle comprises a first panel, a first shell, and a second shell. The first panel forms interior trim for the vehicle and defines a first receptacle. The first shell defines a convex surface and a concave surface and is removably coupled within the first receptacle so that one of the convex surface and the concave surface is exposed. The second shell defines a convex surface and a concave surface and is matable to the first shell to define a case. The case is removable from the first receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: BBI ENTERPRISES GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Steven G. Brown, Timothy P. Parkin, Jerome J. Ennis, Michael P. Fahey
  • Publication number: 20090001746
    Abstract: A cargo bin comprising a housing having a pair of mounting brackets. A J-shaped slot is formed in each mounting bracket, and a lid that includes a pair of pins slidably mounted in the J-shaped slots is attached to the housing. The lid includes pair of notched portions that are formed in the lid and correspond to the mounting brackets. The lid is actuatable between an open position and a closed position by sliding the pins through the J-shaped slots. To assist in supporting the lid when the lid is open, a surface that defines the notched portion rests on the mounting brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: William Karagitz, D. Scott Bittinger, Shawn R. Williams
  • Patent number: 7469951
    Abstract: A device holder assembly for use in a vehicle includes a compartment having a top side opening, a device holder attached to the compartment for holding a mobile electronics device, and a closure attached to the compartment. The holder is movable with respect to the compartment between a storage position in which the holder is stored within the compartment and a use position in which the holder extends out from the compartment. The closure is movable relative to the top side of the compartment along lateral sides of the compartment between an opened position in which the closure opens the compartment, an intermediate closed position in which the closure substantially closes the compartment while the holder is in its use position extending out from the compartment, and a fully closed position in which the closure fully closes the compartment while the holder is in its storage position within the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jörg Welschholz, Werner Volmer
  • Publication number: 20080303302
    Abstract: A console assembly for use with a passenger seating area of a vehicle having a track configured for installment in the passenger seating area. At least one console receiving module is movably connected to the track and is in electrical communication with an electrical system of the vehicle. At least one console module having a housing defining a storage area therein releasably connected to the at least one console receiving module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Alan Sturt, Gary Sadek
  • Patent number: 7451628
    Abstract: An apparatus for opening and closing a door of a glovebox mounted in an instrument panel. The apparatus includes a latch mounted to either the door or the instrument panel, a push button mounted to the other one of the door or the instrument panel, a rack bar connected to the push button and extending inward, a pinion engaged with the rack bar, and a link having a rack gear engaged with the pinion. The link is movable to lock and unlock the latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20080265605
    Abstract: A retractable cup holder assembly includes an interior trim panel, a support housing and a retractable cup holder. The support housing is releasably retained in a cup holder receiving opening of the interior trim panel by a reusable breakaway connection such that the breakaway connection at least partially releases the support housing from the interior trim panel for movement between an installed orientation and a breakaway orientation upon application of a prescribed force being applied to the breakaway connection. The retractable cup holder is pivotally supported to the support housing about a pivot axis between a stowed position in which the cup holder is retracted and a deployed position in which the cup holder extends outwardly from the support housing. The cup holder moves with the support housing when the support housing moves from the installed orientation to the breakaway orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Biggs, Walter Yourke
  • Patent number: 7440845
    Abstract: A navigation assembly (5l) for mounting a navigational device (10l) in an open port (12l) of a vehicle resulting from removal of a non-navigational component is provided. The navigation assembly (5l) broadly comprises a mounting assembly (218l) and the navigational device (10l). The mounting assembly (218l) is mounted within the open port (12l), and the navigational device (10l) is fixedly or removably attached to the mounting assembly (218l), such that the navigational device (10l) may be linearly raised or lowered between two viewing positions that are in a general linear relationship to each other. The navigational device (10l) is operable to pivot left and right within the open port (12l). Additionally, a navigation assembly (5m) broadly comprising a mounting assembly (218m) and a navigational device (10m) for raising and lowering the navigational device (10m) among three viewing positions that are in a general linear relationship to each other is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Garmin Ltd.
    Inventors: David J. Laverick, Brian G. Schoenfish, Jeffrey D. Minelli
  • Patent number: 7434860
    Abstract: A mobile stabilizing seat is composed of a seat body, a driving stabilizing set, and a cover. The seat body is provided with a block partitioned into containing slots at a periphery of the block, and a periphery of the seat body is formed with a plurality of opening slots. The driving stabilizing set is mobile assembled with a gear on the seat body, and the gear is gnawed with a plurality of stabilizing members below each of which is provided with a pillar. Each pillar is sheathed with an elastic member which is one end transfixed into the containing slot partitioned at the periphery of block, for enabling each stabilizing member to be mobile stabilized. The cover is assembled on the seat body. Accordingly, the mobile stabilizing seat proves a design of perfect driving and robust stabilizing, which is easily and quickly assembled, firmly stabilized, and used conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Mike Chen
  • Patent number: 7434859
    Abstract: A console for a vehicle includes a console housing defining a storage compartment. The console housing also defines an indented area in an outer surface thereof. A bin is sized to fit within the indented area such that an entire internal surface area of the bin is contiguous with the indented area when the bin is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventor: James Mulvihill
  • Patent number: 7431369
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a vehicle glove box. The vehicle glove box has a rotary-type partition received to divide the interior of the glove box in a simplified manner. The rotary-type partition can be easily moved from its rest position to its operating position, or vice versa, with single manual operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: In-Heum Park
  • Patent number: 7429068
    Abstract: A removable storage console for use in a vehicle. The console includes a base and a body. The console also includes a handle on the outside of the body. A link member is connected to the handle. An upper housing is secured to a bottom portion of the body. A lower housing is secured to the upper housing. The console includes a plurality of latches arranged between the lower housing and the body member. The console is removable from and capable of being secured at multiple positions within the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Irvin Automotive Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Busha, Joseph Wieczorek, Rodney Slobodian
  • Patent number: 7422261
    Abstract: A pivotally actuated glove box mounted within a vehicle dashboard and exhibiting reinforcing support proximate a mounting location of an exterior handle mechanism. A volume-holding bin includes an inner panel secured to locations associated with the bin. Projecting portions defined upon an opposite surface of the inner panel align with selected inwardly directed support ribs associated with an outer panel and which is vibrational welded with said inner panel along contact locations established between said panels. The placement of the projecting portions coincides with the contact locations associated those inwardly directed support ribs of the outer panel which are proximate the location of a handle mechanism secured to an exposed face of the outer panel and which, upon actuating the handle mechanism, prevent damage to the inwardly contacting edges of the outer panel structural rib supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry Scott Zellner, Jr., Atsushi Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7422260
    Abstract: A center console for an automotive vehicle includes a storage bin having a hinged lid movable between open and closed positions. The lid has an inner surface facing the bin in the closed position. An outer surface extends from the storage bin. A pocket is recessed relative to the outer surface. The pocket is spaced apart from the storage bin. A cover is releasably attachable to the outer surface for covering the pocket. The cover is releasably attachable to the inner surface of the lid for storing the cover when it is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacuting North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Charan Singh Lota
  • Patent number: 7416235
    Abstract: A storage console assembly for a motor vehicle having a floor comprising a bracket removably coupled to the floor, a lower rail attached to the bracket and a main body slidably engaged with the lower rail. An upper rail attached to a top portion of the main body. An upper body having a top portion and a handle is slidably engaged with the upper rail. The main body is arranged to be moved longitudinally within the vehicle with respect to the bracket, and the upper body is arranged to be moved longitudinally within the vehicle with respect to the bracket and the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Chrysler LLC
    Inventors: Ramakrishnan Rajappa, Steven M. Jakubiec
  • Patent number: 7413229
    Abstract: A center console has an armrest that is hinged to provide access to a storage bin, and in addition has a compartment for an electronic device such a cellular phone, MP3 player or a handheld GPS navigation unit. The compartment preferably has a pivoted cover that closes to conceal the device from sight. A cradle attached to the cover holds the device when the cover is open so that it is in a convenient position for use by a vehicle occupant. The armrest may be slid forward relative to the center console to position the device close to the radio, in the field of vision of the driver, and permitting connection of the device to the radio or to an external outlet if desired. A finger recess may be provided in the armrest to permit cables to pass from the interior of the compartment to the exterior of the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Chrysler LLC
    Inventors: Richard J Kukucka, Brian M Chaloult
  • Patent number: 7413244
    Abstract: A container holder typically including a concave portion which is formed on an outside of a utility vehicle and which is configured to be positioned forward of a driver's seat. A container may be put into or taken out of the container holder. The container holder has a pad configured to inhibit a container accommodated therein from disengaging from the container holder. When a small item is accommodated in the container holder, the pad serves as a lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shunji Tanaka, Seiichi Ino, Naoki Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 7407200
    Abstract: A cover opening and closing device switches a cover body to rotate between a closed position and an open position. The cover opening and closing device includes a single operation button for switching the cover body between the closed position and the open position, a forcing device for forcing the cover body at least toward the closed position from a near closed position when the cover body is closed, and a switching device for releasing the cover body in the open position and allowing the cover body to rotate toward the closed position when the operation button is pushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: NIFCO Inc.
    Inventor: Takahide Ichimaru
  • Patent number: 7407210
    Abstract: A vehicle having a climate-controlled console (14) is provided. The vehicle (10) includes a vehicle frame (12) and a console (14) attached to the vehicle frame (12). The console (14) includes a housing (20), a drawer (22), and one or more climate regulators (24). The housing (20) defines a cavity (26). The drawer (22) is slidably attached to the housing (20) and movable into the cavity (26). The drawer (22) includes one or more compartments with a floor portion (38), a lid (36), and a series of wall portions (40) extending between the floor portion (38) and lid. One or more of the wall portions (40) are formed from a transparent material (56) for displaying an interior (58) of the compartment (28). The climate regulators (24) maintain a predetermined climate in the compartment (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Arbaugh, Craig Metros, Dave Lechkun, Brian Izard, Nicolas Thetard
  • Patent number: 7401830
    Abstract: An automobile may include a vehicle frame, a body supported on the vehicle frame and defining a passenger compartment and a console assembly positioned within the passenger compartment. The console assembly may include: (A) a console frame having at least a first tubular portion and a plurality of legs where each leg is supported on the vehicle frame; (B) an outer shell connected to the console frame for use in covering the console frame; and, (C) an armrest supported on the console frame and adapted to support a person's arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Akimoto, Matt Parkinson, John Hwang
  • Patent number: 7401831
    Abstract: A storage console configured to slide within a track. The storage console suitable for use in any number of environments, such as but not limited to automotive vehicles. The track being suitable to permit movement of the console from one end to the other, such as but not limited to facilitate movement of the console between multiple rows of vehicle seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Sturt
  • Publication number: 20080169667
    Abstract: A universal accessory attachment system for the interior of a vehicle is designed to connect any one or more of a variety of accessories to various vehicle panels within a vehicle. The attachment system includes an accessory having a male connector configured to selectively attach the accessory to a vehicle panel located within the vehicle. The vehicle panel defines a female connector sized and shaped to receive the male connector. The male connector of the accessory cooperates with the female connector within the vehicle to selectively attach the accessory within the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: ANDREW SINIARSKI, JAMES D. DOWD
  • Patent number: 7396062
    Abstract: A pedestal console for a motor vehicle includes a housing stationarily mounted within the vehicle beneath and transverse to a bench seat of the vehicle. The console includes an air duct defined by structural features extending the length of the console. This allows air from a forward ventilation system to be provided, through the air duct, to an aft portion of the vehicle. The structural features extend between the bottom surface and the top surface of the console and are dimensioned to allow the console to accept passenger floor loads. To reduce cost and parts count, the entire console is formed of a one piece construction. Finally, an interior opening may be provided to route wiring of the vehicle's electrical system to the aft portion of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen T. Hung, Ronald K. Roberts, Daniel R. Vander Sluis, Donald Wozniak
  • Patent number: 7397655
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus has a first housing having a first cover, a second housing having a second cover, and a hinge device. The hinge device connects rotationally the first housing and second housing, and has a hinge shaft, a first arm and a second arm. The first arm is covered by the first cover, and one end is connected to the hinge shaft, and the other end is fixed to the first housing. The second arm is covered by the second cover, and one end is connected to the hinge shaft, and the other end is fixed to the second housing. The first cover and second cover have opposed parts around the hinge shaft, and have a projection which is provided in one opposed part, and slidingly contacts the other opposed part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Masato Nakatani, Yasuyuki Suzuki, Yosuke Miura
  • Patent number: 7393037
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo storage system includes a plurality of bins, trays, tracks, and covers. The tray is received within one of the bins and is movable from a normal retracted position into an extended loading/unloading position so as to place the tray in a more convenient location for access by the user. The tracks and associated slide arms connect the bin to the tray and guide the tray for movement between the extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: John Hwang
  • Publication number: 20080150309
    Abstract: A storage assembly for a vehicle console that includes a bin, a mounting panel and a cover is contained within the console such that the bin is accessible through a sidewall of the console. The bin assembly is attached to an inside surface of the sidewall in a front section of the console. When the cover is in an open position the cover occupies a gap formed by the inner surface of the sidewall and the mounting panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Johnathan Norman, Frank Paluch
  • Patent number: 7390045
    Abstract: As aspect of the invention provides an article holding assembly that is attachable to a mounting member. An aspect of the invention provides a console assembly that is attachable to a mounting member in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Tiesler
  • Patent number: RE40617
    Abstract: An overhead console assembly for a vehicle includes accessory module compartments selectively positioned and removably secured to the overhead console for storing materials within the compartments. The overhead console includes a first console housing disposed to an miner surface of a structural member of a headliner assembly on a roofline of a vehicle, a second console housing disposed on the structural member of the headliner spaced apart from the first console housing and a center console housing disposed between the first and second console housings. At least one accessory module is removably secured to the center console housing. The at least one accessory module includes a housing, a storage area defined within the housing to retain materials stored within, and at least one securing member coupling the at least one module to a securement surface provided on the center console housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Canni, Scott Shields, Clifford Krapfl