Vehicle Body Ornament Patents (Class 428/31)
  • Patent number: 8697224
    Abstract: An ornamental structure for a vehicle upholstery member provides a plurality of surface patterns by using a single vehicle upholstery member. On the surface of an embossed vehicle upholstery member are arranged a first region formed with a first emboss pattern, a second region spaced from the first region and formed with a second emboss pattern different from the first emboss pattern, and a third region located between the first and second regions and formed with a third emboss pattern which changes progressively from the first emboss pattern to the second emboss pattern as one moves from the first region to the second region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke Kato, Mie Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20140093665
    Abstract: A decorative member for vehicle includes a transparent substrate, a decorative layer, and a resinous adhesion layer. The transparent substrate has a front face and a rear face, and includes a transparent material. The decorative layer is formed on the rear face of the transparent substrate, and is visible through the transparent substrate when the decorative member is viewed on the front face of the transparent substrate. The resinous adhesion layer covers the rear face of the transparent substrate on which the decorative layer is formed, and includes a hot-melt adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventors: Hitoshi HORIBE, Daiichiro KAWASHIMA, Hideto MAEDA
  • Publication number: 20140093666
    Abstract: A method for producing a patterned pressure-sensitive adhesive body includes a pattern forming step of cutting a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer in a pressure-sensitive adhesive film including a first release film and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer laminated on one surface of the first release film so as to form a first slit in a pattern shape and an outer frame forming step of cutting the first release film and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer so as to form a second slit in an outer frame shape surrounding the pattern shape. The second slit has a discontinuous portion in a cutting direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: NITTO DENKO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshikazu TSUZUKI, Yoshimasa NISHIDA, Takafumi SUZUKI, Hiromitsu MORISHITA, Masayoshi NATSUME, Shuuji SUGIMOTO
  • Publication number: 20140087096
    Abstract: The invention teaches clothing for a swan hood ornament. The clothing may be of a number of different types and materials such as cotton, polyester, vinyl, and vinyl coated polyester, for example. The clothing is dimensioned and configured to physically engage the hood ornament, by having spans of material sized to go around the wings and abdomen of a swan hood ornament. The clothing is further decorated with assorted nailheads, sequins, beads, buttons, decorative snaps, chains of appropriate gauge, or rhinestones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Patricia A. Herman
  • Patent number: 8652611
    Abstract: A bionically designed plastic molded part is provided, in particular a carrier, for a motor vehicle, with at least one low-load region for accommodating relatively low loads, which is formed using thin-wall technology, and at least one high-load region for accommodating relatively high loads, which is formed using plastic foam technology and connected to at least one low-load region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ralf Gaudig, Klaus Kuhlmann, Werner Berhard
  • Patent number: 8623485
    Abstract: The present invention provides an adhesive unit for emblem, which includes: a plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces each having a shape corresponding to a shape of a respective one of a plurality of emblem pieces; a first release film attached to a face of each of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces to be adhered to an emblem, so that a mutual positional relationship of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces is maintained; and a second release film attached to the other face of each of the plurality of double-faced adhesive pieces opposite to the face to be adhered to the emblem. The present invention also provides a method of producing the adhesive unit for emblem, a jig for adhering emblem, and an emblem for adhesion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignees: Nitto Denko Corporation, Nissho Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Asano, Isao Hirose, Shinji Inokuchi, Tokuhisa Kosaka
  • Patent number: 8614005
    Abstract: A film whose outer layer is composed of a molding composition which is in essence composed of the following components: a) from 3 to 50% by weight of a polyamide, selected from the group of PA11 and PA12, and b) from 50 to 97% by weight of a polyamide, selected from the group of PA1012 and PA1212, where the percentages are based on the entirety of components a) and b), is suitable for decoration of moldings which retain their gloss during their service time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Evonik Degussa GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Wursche, Sonja Bollmann, Harald Haeger, Martin Wielpuetz, Kirsten Alting, Michael Beyer, Franz-Erich Baumann
  • Patent number: 8603607
    Abstract: A covering material of an instrument panel includes an infrared reflecting layer, which is a lower layer, and a design layer, which is an upper layer. The design layer is applied to the infrared reflecting layer and has a small thickness. An undulating pattern is formed on the outer surface of the infrared reflecting layer. The design layer has a small thickness, so that an undulating pattern that is similar to that of the infrared reflecting layer is formed on the design layer. The design layer contains a black pigment that is transmissive to infrared radiation. Incident infrared radiation passes through the design layer, is reflected by the infrared reflecting layer, and is diffused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Akuzawa, Masae Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 8518519
    Abstract: A sill cover includes an elongated sill cover main body, a plurality of hinges, a plurality of attachments and a linking portion. The plurality of hinges is foldably provided along a longitudinal direction of the sill cover main body. The plurality of attachments is connected to the plurality of hinges and shifts to a vehicle mounting position according to folding of the plurality of hinges. The linking portion links three attachments among the plurality of attachments to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: FALTEC Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryuji Kubo
  • Publication number: 20130196089
    Abstract: A method of forming an emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes positioning a mask adjacent and in contact with a second element so that the mask covers only a selected portion of the second element and does not cover an exposed portion of the second element. The method includes vacuum metalizing a first coating onto only the exposed portion, wherein the first coating has a distal edge surface abutting the mask, and, after vacuum metalizing, removing the mask from the second element to uncover the selected portion. The method includes depositing a back coating onto only the first coating and the selected portion to thereby wrap the back coating around the distal edge surface, and, after depositing, inserting the second element into a first element configured for attachment to the vehicle so that the first coating does not contact the first element to form the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Catherine A. Ostrander, Joel Colombo, Mary K. Gusie, Kitty L. Gong, Charles K. Buehler, Michael P. Balogh
  • Publication number: 20130189456
    Abstract: A removable hood ornament is described in the disclosure which has a decorative head having an upper portion configured to have a novelty shape and/or novelty outer design and a lower connector area on an outer surface of the decorative head having a head connector thereon; and a base having an upper portion having a base connector configured to mate with the head connector, the base having on a lower portion thereof a first magnet device capable of magnetic attraction to a hood surface comprising metal when the removable hood ornament is installed on a hood surface. The decorative head and base may also be unitary or affixed to one another, and the various removable hood ornaments may be part of an assembly including secondary magnets which are magnetically engaged by the first magnet when placed on opposite sides of a hood surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Beth Ann Verbeyst-Hayes
  • Patent number: 8470414
    Abstract: A vehicle ornament and a kit containing components to form the vehicle ornament that can be attached to an outer surface of a vehicle. The components of the kit include at least one vehicle ornament base member having a circular, substantially flat lower surface and at least one vehicle ornament upper shaped member having a three-dimensional cone-like, pyramid-like or thorn-like shape. The base member and the upper shaped member include complementary engagement members that are operatively adapted to enable non-rotatable connection of the base member to the upper shaped member. The overall height of the vehicle ornament is from about 10.2 cm to about 20.3 cm and the diameter of the circular, flat lower surface of the base member is from about 10.2 cm to about 20.3 cm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Corey Custer
  • Publication number: 20130149472
    Abstract: A surface treatment for polymeric part adhesion and a treated part is provided. In one aspect, a method for adhesively securing a part to a polymeric substrate is provided comprising providing an adhesive layer having a bonding surface having a first oxygen composition, a part having a bondable surface, and a polymeric substrate having a mating surface. Spray from an air plasma device is directed onto at least a portion of the bonding surface of the adhesive to provide a second oxygen composition on the bonding surface of the adhesive layer, with the second oxygen composition being greater than the first oxygen composition. The adhesive layer is secured between the bondable surface of the part and the mating surface of the polymeric substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
  • Patent number: 8383213
    Abstract: A decoration device for attaching to a windshield wiper featuring a generally flexible elongated strip; a cloth component disposed on a top surface of the strip, the cloth component resembles a tail of an animal, the animal includes a cat, a dog, a lion, a rhinoceros, a snake, a tiger, an elephant, a zebra, a wolf, a dingo, a kangaroo, or the like; and at least one clip disposed on a bottom surface of the strip, the clip is configured to wrap around a portion of the arm of the windshield wiper, the clip comprises a screw clamp for tightening the clip around the portion of the arm of the windshield wiper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Donald Clark
  • Patent number: 8372493
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element having a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface, wherein the first element defines at least one void therethrough extending through the second surface. The emblem assembly includes a second element having a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface is spaced apart from the fifth surface to define a channel therebetween. The emblem assembly includes a coating disposed on the third surface and a sealant disposed adjacent and in contact with at least a portion of each of the void, the second surface, the coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Bruce N. Greve
  • Patent number: 8365410
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to a grille badge including an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: William J. Doroghazi, Greg F. Hintzke, Thomas J. Fenbert
  • Patent number: 8277588
    Abstract: Dissolving paper (22) covers pressure sensitive adhesive (20) on a mounting face (18) of an object (16) to be mounted on an exterior surface of a body panel (10) of a motor vehicle by a mechanical fastening system (24). The mounting is exposed to a water wash. Water begins to be absorbed by the dissolving paper through the edge of the paper's outer perimeter. As the paper increasingly absorbs water, it dissolves in the water exposing the adhesive which then adheres to the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Gayle Goodrich, Scott Watkins
  • Patent number: 8216650
    Abstract: A protective and decorative ornament that remains substantially in place on a vehicle's outer surface under substantially all vehicle operating conditions. The ornament includes a top decorative layer, upper and lower foam layers beneath the top layer, fastening members that extend outward from at least two edges thereof, a weighted element between the upper and lower foam layers and proximate an edge that does not include a fastening member, a substantially rigid element beneath the lower foam layer, and a substantially smooth bottom layer coupled to contact the vehicle's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph S. Douglas
  • Patent number: 8210564
    Abstract: A vehicle interior decor element, in particular an air bag cover, comprising a front side (36) facing the vehicle interior and an opposite rear side (34), a cover (18) and a decorative element (20) which is provided at the cover (18), is visible from the front and is at least partly translucent. The decorative element (20) includes sections (24) between which the decorative element (20) has a gap (26) through which the cover (18) is accessible from the front side (36). The decorative element (20) extends with at least one portion (44) thereof towards the rear side (34) towards or into a cavity (42) which is formed in the cover (18) and in which an illuminant (50) for illuminating the decorative element (20) is accommodated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: TRW Automotive Safety Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Matthias Helmstetter, Reinhard Schulze
  • Patent number: 8153258
    Abstract: The invention relates to a molded assembly having reduced squeaking and rattling. The molded assembly includes a first component of a vehicle that has a first surface. The assembly also includes a second component of a vehicle having a second surface. The second component is assembled to the first component. An isolator is disposed between the first and second components and is secured to the first surface. The isolator comprises an injection-moldable self-lubricating elastomer impregnated with a fatty amide. An interface between the isolator and the second surface has a ratio of a co-efficient of static friction to a co-efficient of dynamic friction less than 1.4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Junko K. Pauken, Norman Haidous, Martin Arthur Trapp, Robert S. Parsons, Gary D. Mullen
  • Publication number: 20120076959
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element having a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface, wherein the first element defines at least one void therethrough extending through the second surface. The emblem assembly includes a second element having a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the second surface is spaced apart from the fifth surface to define a channel therebetween. The emblem assembly includes a coating disposed on the third surface and a sealant disposed adjacent and in contact with at least a portion of each of the void, the second surface, the coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Bruce N. Greve
  • Publication number: 20120076960
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element and a second element. The first element is configured for attachment to the vehicle and has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element is configured for attachment to the first element and has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces, wherein the fifth surface is spaced apart from the second surface to define a channel therebetween. The assembly includes a first coating disposed on the third surface and a tape disposed in contact with at least a portion of each of the second surface, the first coating, and the fifth surface to thereby fill at least a portion of the channel. A method of forming the assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce N. Greve, Kitty L. Gong
  • Publication number: 20120076958
    Abstract: An emblem assembly configured for attachment to a vehicle includes a first element configured for attachment to the vehicle and a second element configured for attachment to the first element. The first element has a first surface and a second surface recessed from the first surface. The second element has a third surface, a fourth surface spaced apart from the third surface, and a fifth surface extending between the third and fourth surfaces. The emblem assembly further includes a coating disposed on the third surface, and a molded resin disposed adjacent and in fixed contact with each of the fifth surface and the coating to contiguously encapsulate the coating and at least a portion of the fifth surface, wherein the molded resin is bondable to the first element. A method of forming the emblem assembly is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Michael A. Szymberski
  • Patent number: 8133571
    Abstract: An interior article for automobiles is provided having a light-weight and suitable rigidity without lowering moldability even if the amount of use of a thermoplastic resin is decreased. A panel having a hollow double-wall structure and constituting an interior part for automobiles is formed from a mixture of polyolefin resins comprised of a propylene homopolymer having a specific gravity of 0.93 or less (JIS K7112), exhibiting a melt flow rate of 0.3 to 3.0 g/10 minutes (JIS K7210) and exhibiting a bending modulus of 1400 MPa or more (JIS K6758), a crystalline propylene block copolymer having a specific gravity of 0.93 or less (JIS K7112), exhibiting a melt flow rate of 0.3 to 1.5 g/10 minutes (JIS K7210) and exhibiting a bending modulus of 1250 MPa or less (JIS K7171) and a high density polyethylene having a specific gravity of 0.925 to 0.965 (JIS K7112) and exhibiting a melt flow rate of 0.5 g/10 minutes or less (JIS K7210).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Kyoraku Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruo Tamada
  • Patent number: 8129003
    Abstract: A vehicle panel (10) includes a core layer (12) and a layer of metalized film (14) bonded to the core layer (12). In one embodiment, the core layer (12) is made of a material with heat absorption or insulation properties. The layer of metalized film (14) is made of a material having heat reflective properties that can be bonded to the core layer (12). Alternatively, a compatible bonding agent can be applied to the core layer, the metalized film, or both. To form the vehicle panel (10), the layer metalized film (14) is positioned on one half of a mold tool and the core layer (12) is positioned on the other half of the mold tool. Heat is applied to the core layer (12) and the mold tool is closed such that the heat from the core layer (12) causes the metalized film (14) to be in a formable state and bonds to the core layer (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.
    Inventors: James Daniel Asbury, Larry Kocher, Paul Alan Forgette
  • Patent number: 8119924
    Abstract: Stress concentration at the connecting portion of the electronic component and the curved board and the area around the connecting portion is suppressed. In a flexible wiring board, insulation layers (11, 13) and wiring layers (12, 15) are piled up alternately and wiring layers (12, 15) are via-connected each other. The board comprises reinforced area (10a) reinforced against external stress, bending area (10c) bending easier than the reinforced area (10a) by external stress, and a stress relaxation area (10b) provided in area between the reinforced area (10a) and the bending area (10c), bending easier than the reinforced area (10a) but not easier than the bending area (10c) by the external stress, and relaxing the stress carried from the bending area (10c) to the reinforced area (10a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Katsumi Abe, Kenichiro Fujii, Atsumasa Sawada
  • Patent number: 8101264
    Abstract: A vehicle structure can include a coating that provides a three-dimensional tactile pattern to the vehicle structure. In addition, a method for forming a vehicle structure can include applying a film that provides a three-dimensional tactile pattern to the vehicle structure. The vehicle structure can be a trim piece of a vehicle to which the film provides decorative and tactile features. A thin metal layer can be applied on top of a substrate by a metallizing technique, such as physical vapor deposition, followed by applying a radiation curable formulation and exposing it to radiation source, such as UV light. The radiation curable formulation can be a UV ink that is spaced at separate and distinct locations on the film and extends from the metallic layer to such an extent that it is discernable by human touch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jessica Ann Pace, Naoto Fujiwara, Todd Stephen Copeland, Corey Scott McEnhill
  • Patent number: 8071184
    Abstract: A hood ornament includes a circular base plate having a bolt extending from the lower surface that is inserted through a hole formed in the vehicle hood; a locking nut is attached to the bolt to tightly anchor the base plate to the hood. An ornament member includes a sight mounted on a foundation having a key latch depending therefrom that releasably seats within a keyed receptacle formed in the base plate. The foundation includes an oblique lower surface to assure that the sight extends at a discrete angle relative to the base plate when the ornament is secured thereto. Accordingly, if the base plate is mounted on a downwardly-sloped surface, the sight will be substantially vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: James W. Dodt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8061861
    Abstract: An airbag emblem may be backlit or illuminated to provide the emblem with greater visual appeal. In order to accomplish this illumination, an illumination source is used. This illumination source may be electroluminescent foil. The emblem includes colors that are added or inserted onto the emblem. These colors are translucent so that they may be illuminated by the illumination source. This emblem may be placed as part of an airbag cover on a steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Paxton, Henry Vernon Phillips, Richard L. Matsu
  • Patent number: 8050799
    Abstract: A method for determining of spraying parameters for controlling a painting appliance which sprays and is moved over an area to be painted, in particular a robot with a painting application. A known spraying map is produced, using known spraying parameters and paint amount, for a predetermined movement speed of the painting appliance, and a paint amount is matched to a new movement speed in comparison to the predetermined movement speed. Furthermore, new spraying parameters are calculated for the adapted paint amount, while maintaining a spraying map which is similar to the known spraying map.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Dietmar Eickmeyer, Gunter Boerner
  • Patent number: 8012549
    Abstract: A simulated balloon system for that does not utilize a pressurized gas. The simulated balloon system generally includes a simulated balloon unit having a first portion and a second portion defining a lower opening when attached, a plurality of fasteners connected to the simulated balloon unit for removably attaching the first portion and the second portion, a support member extending from the lower opening of the simulated balloon unit, and a base attached to a lower end of the support member. The base may be comprised of a magnet for attaching to a metal object such as a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry A. Doute
  • Patent number: 7993711
    Abstract: The present invention is a pompon made of double-sided polyester ribbon strands with permanently attached adjustable open-ended fastener made of hook and loop material that attaches to an outside object, preferably a vehicle, and is portable, durable, color-fade resistant, flame resistant, and washable. The present invention will not shred in the wind, such as a regular plastic pompon. The present invention may be taken off of a vehicle and placed on a person's hand, wrist, arm, etc., and used at a sporting event, and/or hung in a person's home or office when not in use. Other than to represent a sports team, the colors of the present invention may reflect a corporate insignia, or special causes, such as Breast Cancer Awareness, Support Our Troops, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Karen Louise DeMoor
  • Patent number: 7989531
    Abstract: A composition, having an improved resistance to yellowing under heat aging, comprising at least 20 weight % of at least one polycondensation polymer having a heat deflection temperature of above 80° C. under a load of 1.82 MPa when measured according to ASTM D648, from 0 to 5 weight % of at least one polymer having a heat deflection temperature of at most 80° C. under a load of 1.82 MPa when measured according to ASTM D648, a white pigment; and a black pigment provides resistance to heat aging induced yellowing. The polycondensation polymers are advantageously selected from the group consisting of polyarylethersulfones, at least partially aromatic polyamides, polyamideimides, liquid crystalline polymers, polyimides, polyetherimides, polyaryletherketones, and polyphenylene sulfides. The polymer composition can be molded to form a variety of articles, including LED components, such as reflectors, reflector cups, and scramblers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce H. Bersted, Ernest Seet, Eric Hsiao, Henri Massillon
  • Publication number: 20110171402
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to a grille badge including an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: William J. Doroghazi, Greg F. Hintzke, Thomas J. Fenbert
  • Publication number: 20110140397
    Abstract: A vehicle assembly including a cover, for example, an airbag cover, having an attached plate of the type adapted to support a manufacturer's emblem, wherein the plate penetrates with tongues distributed over its circumference into perforations arranged at the vehicle assembly cover. The tongues are bent into matching slots molded on the back of the vehicle assembly cover about a bending edge arranged between the perforations and the slots. At least one of the tongues is provided at its free end with a narrower neck region and a cross-sectional enlargement extending through the perforations in the vehicle assembly cover, and the slots having a shape matching the contour of one or more of the tongue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: AUTOLIV DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Juergen Mackensen, Raimund Nebel
  • Publication number: 20110123731
    Abstract: A decorative member, particularly to be used as an emblem on a motor vehicle, comprises a first body of transparent plastic material having a front face and a substantially flat rear face, an image formed by ink-jet printing at a printing zone of the rear face, and a generally flat second body applied to the rear face of the first body. The size of the printing zone of the first body is substantially smaller than the rear face, and the first body and the second body are connected to each other at a connecting strip encircling the printing zone, which strip defines a tight seal, so that the image is enclosed in a chamber sealingly closed with respect to the outer environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Paolo Zanini, Mario Franzino
  • Publication number: 20110104403
    Abstract: The present invention is a mascot or character device used in combination with a vehicle, with an attachment pole. The device includes a mascot or character that includes a jersey and an attachment webbing and harness that secures the mascot or character to the attachment pole. The attachment webbing and harness has a harness portion that is wrapped around the mascot or character being secured to the attachment pole, two generally elongated strips that are attached to the harness portion and a loop formed on an end of each the generally elongated strips to accommodate the attachment pole that the attachment webbing and harness is attached to. The device can also be attached to the vehicle without a pole as well with an attachment assembly that includes a strap with an adjustable buckle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald Mark Thick
  • Publication number: 20110104404
    Abstract: A ceramic for decorative parts is provided which has excellent wearing resistance and can retain over long a gold color tone capable of giving a high-grade feeling, a feeling of aesthetic satisfaction, and spiritual comfortableness. Also provided is a decorative part comprising the ceramic. The ceramic for a decorative part is characterized by comprising 50 mass % or more titanium nitride, 6 mass % or more and 30 mass % or less unstabilized zirconia containing substantially no stabilizer, and nickel, the unstabilized zirconia having a crystal grain size smaller than the crystal grain size of the titanium nitride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: KYOCERA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kenichi Hamamura
  • Patent number: 7921563
    Abstract: An example grille badge includes an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: William J. Doroghazi, Greg F. Hintzke, Thomas J. Fenbert
  • Publication number: 20110059271
    Abstract: Vehicle ornaments and kits containing a set of vehicle ornaments are disclosed. Methods of making and using vehicle ornaments and kits containing a set of vehicle ornaments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Corey Custer
  • Publication number: 20110052839
    Abstract: A vehicle showcase display badge is provided which includes a bezel, a substantially transparent front lens, and a rear lens comprising a light transparent front surface and a colored reflective rear surface. The badge also includes a graphic assembly disposed between the front lens and the rear lens, wherein the rear lens provides a three-dimensional appearance of the graphic assembly. The badge further includes an attachment for attaching the badge to a vehicle such that the graphic assembly is viewable. One or more curved surfaces may be employed on the rear lens to provide a shadow effect. One or more of the lenses may be overmolded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Joel Thomas Pierce, Michael A. Musleh, Bob Bretz, John Turcotte, Andrew Murray, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Will Farrelly
  • Patent number: 7897262
    Abstract: The wall decoration of this invention is a molded fiberglass replica of a portion of a classic vehicle attached to an internally positioned mounting plate such that when attached to a wall the replica appears to be imbedded in the wall. The mounting plate is secured to a wall by means of a Z-bracket that is accessible through an openable panel in the replica. The mounting plate and Z-bracket mounting provide sturdy structural support for the replica and for a variety of internally disposed accessories for the replica as well as other utilities the owner might whish to incorporate to personalize the replica.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: James E. Chambers
  • Patent number: 7875339
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a decoration technique for providing iridescent color effects or glittering luster effects to a resin casing by attaching a polarizing film in contact with a resin casing, and for finishing a cut-off edge portion of the polarizing film smooth. After forming the polarizing film on a mold having a prescribed shape, a thermoplastic resin is injected into the mold to produce a thermoplastic resin casing to which the polarizing film is firmly attached. When cutting off an excess portion of the polarizing film by using a cutting die, a heater built into the cutting die is energized, and the cut-off edge portion of the polarizing film is fused by the heating of the cutting die, thus fixing the edge portion to the thermoplastic resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventors: Takashi Yuba, Shinichiro Akieda, Takashi Arita
  • Patent number: 7875336
    Abstract: A method for production of a component in a tool having a cavity-forming first and a second tool half comprises the following steps: a) insertion at least of two skins with angled-over end regions into the second tool half such that the angled-over end regions of the skins are situated adjacently with the same orientation and angling; b) rear-foaming or rear-spraying of the skins with a foam material or injection moulding material, c) after insertion of the skins, the end regions of the skins being pressed together in a foam-tight or spray-fight manner at least in regions by pressing at least on one side of the end regions which are situated one above the other against a wall which determines the form and position of the pressed-together end regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Claus Heinz, Bernhard Bauman, Andreas Meyer, Torsten Köhler, Sebastien Baumont, Godefroy Beau, Andreas Gehring, Freddy Stoof, Thomas Neuhard
  • Patent number: 7854101
    Abstract: A system for attaching a component to a substrate, such as a vehicle. The system comprises a bracket. At least one fastener is coupled to the bracket and is engageable to the vehicle. A component is assembled to the bracket such that a lip of the component contacts a tab of the bracket, and the bracket at least partially engages a gap defined by the lip and an interior surface of the component. The component is attached to the vehicle when the fastener is engaged with the vehicle. A method employs the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Andrew K. Swayne, Jeremy J. Weinandy
  • Patent number: 7853454
    Abstract: Methods for producing decorative laminate composites are described. The method includes the owner of intellectual property covering the use and manufacture of paint film technology selectively licensing the technology to various automotive component suppliers and manufacturers. In this manner, the total number of suppliers in the supply chain can be either reduced and/or more carefully controlled, thus leading to increased levels of finished component quality control. By way of a non-limiting example, a single licensee/supplier can produce the finished component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Laminate Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. LaFave
  • Publication number: 20100310794
    Abstract: A removable decorative and/or advertising ornament with an enclosed magnet, potentially with a protective covering, that allows the ornament to be securely yet removably attached to a metal object, such as the hood, trunk or top of a vehicle. A preferred embodiment of the invention is a foam body that contains a magnet surrounded by a mesh cloth. A barrier separates the magnet and/or mesh cloth from objects that the device is affixed to. The magnet has adequate magnetic force such that the device will remained attached to a vehicle moving at freeway speeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Alte B. Nordvik, George I. Berliner, Lene Marie Nordvik
  • Publication number: 20100304055
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an automobile decorative item fixed onto an automobile rod such as an end of an automobile shift stick or an automobile headrest rod to show a unique decorating effect. The automobile decorative item includes a decorative tube with lines or patterns, a fixing device covered onto both ends of the decorative tube and fixed to the automobile rod, and a stylish tube sheathed onto the external periphery of the decorative tube and having a hollow portion. The fixing device can be installed or removed by users easily, and the decorative tube and the stylish tube can be changed to show the stylish appearance of the automobile decorative item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: Great Performance Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jui Bin Hwan
  • Patent number: 7842360
    Abstract: A method for using a single injection molding apparatus to manufacture at least two and up to four different levels of automobile trim pieces as well as automobile trim level pieces manufactured by the methods of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Northern Engraving Corporation
    Inventors: Arnis E. Peters, Dan Weinstock, Kevin J. Rink
  • Patent number: 7838100
    Abstract: The present invention is an article comprising a shaped rigid foam part; a heat activated foamable adhesive applied directly to at least a portion of the outer surface of the shaped foam part and an integral locating means. A second aspect of the invention is a method of forming a foam filled vehicle hollow member comprising, (a) inserting into a vehicular hollow member a rigid foam part comprised of a rigid foam having a heat activated foamable adhesive on at least a portion of the rigid foam insert and at least one integral locating means extending from a surface of the rigid foam, (b) engaging the locating means with the hollow member to locate the rigid foam part within the hollow member, and (c) heating the hollow member having the rigid foam part therein to a temperature and for a time sufficient to activate the heat activated expandable adhesive to form the foam filled vehicle hollow member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David G. McLeod, Steve B. Swartzmiller, Frank V. Billotto, Mark P. Allen, Christopher A. Brewster, Kousay M. Said