With Vehicle Structure Patents (Class 439/34)
  • Patent number: 8342856
    Abstract: A charging connector (10) has terminal fittings (20) including female-side main portions (21) connectable to a vehicle-side terminal (60) and having a wire (W) connected to the rear end of the main portion (21). Terminal accommodating portions (15) are formed internally with cavities (17) for accommodating the terminal fittings (20). Seals (30) are sandwiched between facing inner walls of the cavities (17) and the main portions (21). Wire accommodating portions (11, 12) are behind the terminal accommodating portions (15) for accommodating the wires (W) in a state where reaction forces push the terminal fittings (20) forward. Each terminal fitting (20) is biased constantly forward by the reaction force of the wire W against a frictional force with the seal ring (30), thereby being arranged at a frontmost position where the front end of the main portion (21) and a front wall (17A) of the cavity (17) are in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akinori Takada, Toshifumi Ichio
  • Patent number: 8328562
    Abstract: A motor programming tool is disclosed for associating with a connection block of a motor and sending signals to a programmable controller of the motor, where the connection block includes a plurality of terminals coupled to the controller. The programming tool includes a tool body with an interface generally corresponding with the connection block of the motor, wiring operable to carry the signals, and a plurality of terminal connecting assemblies to associate with the motor terminals. In one embodiment, each connecting assembly includes a mounting element connected to end of the wiring and a plunger element shiftable relative to the mounting element while maintaining electrical connection therewith. Each plunger is biased toward an extended condition and is yieldably retracted inwardly relative thereto when the tool body is associated with the connection block. Embodiments of the programming tool also include circuitry connected to the wiring and including a time-delay relay element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Nidec Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Payman Rassoolkhani, Chetan O. Modi
  • Publication number: 20120306332
    Abstract: A mounting device for mounting electronic components of an unmanned helicopter. A solid base plate has a circumferential outer edge. A connecting module is fixedly attached to the circumferential outer edge. The connecting module is configured to reversibly connect a flexible cover to the base plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: SAAB AB
    Inventors: Per-Erik Cardell, Andreas Johansson
  • Patent number: 8323050
    Abstract: A retainer shell used to install in a mounting hole on a device panel designed to accommodate electrical connector from an end of a standard extension harness. The retainer shell is designed to lock securely in an opening of the device panel without specialized tools to be required for such installation. The locking retainer shell is designed to have simple and reliable front panel push action installation and provide front panel interconnect to a mating cable assembly as example with the opposite mating gender.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: George Stantchev
  • Patent number: 8308502
    Abstract: An electrical arrangement for a motor vehicle includes a starter cable electrically connected with a vehicle battery, a terminal head conductor electrically connected with the starter cable, a terminal base conductor electrically connected with a starter motor, and an electrically nonconductive terminal enclosure defining a cavity in which the terminal head conductor and the terminal base conductor are positioned. The vehicle battery is electrically connected with the starter motor when the terminal head conductor contacts the terminal base conductor in the cavity. The terminal enclosure includes a weakened section offset from the terminal head conductor such that breaking of the terminal enclosure at the weakened section to form a free edge of the terminal enclosure and disconnection of the terminal head conductor from the terminal base conductor results in the terminal head conductor remaining in the cavity and spaced from the free edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chris Lang
  • Patent number: 8287285
    Abstract: A vehicle interior assembly includes an electronic sub-assembly and a conductive interior trim component at least partially disposed about the electronic sub-assembly. The conductive interior trim component is electrically coupled to a conductive structure at a reference potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Steven M. Mainville, Sreeniwas Ranganathan, Bryan Shafer, Scott W. Mee
  • Patent number: 8231168
    Abstract: In an arranging structure of a wire harness for a door, the wire harness is spanned between a door of a motor vehicle and a vehicle body at an indoor side inside of a weather strip. The wire harness is drawn out from a space between a door inner panel and a door trim at the door side and is provided with an excess length portion that follows opening and closing operations of the door. The excess length portion is drawn out from the space when the door is opened. The excess length portion is drawn along an arcuate outer periphery of a speaker disposed in the space to be contained in the space when the door is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Sytems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Morihiko Toyozumi, Isao Tsuji, Daiki Nagayasu, Tsutomu Sakata, Tetsuya Fujita, Sung-Jin Kim
  • Patent number: 8215963
    Abstract: A charging connector and a charging cable unit that are capable of driving a load while being maintenance-free and simply constructed is provided. The charging cable unit includes: a charging cable that includes a signal line for sending a control signal, and an electric power line for sending electric power, and that is provided for connecting the vehicle and an electric power source when the vehicle is charged; and a charging connector connected to an end of the charging cable. The charging connector includes: an electric power terminal to which electric power is supplied from the electric power line; a signal terminal to which the control signal is transmitted from the signal line; and a lighting capable of being driven by the control signal from the signal line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Shinji Ichikawa, Yoshinori Fujitake, Shigeo Mori, Takashi Tsukamoto
  • Publication number: 20120166052
    Abstract: The invention relates to a contacting module for a transmission controller, comprising: a module housing (3, 5), and a punched grid (4) made of metal, which is accommodated in the module housing (3, 5) and has several conducting tracks (4a) having free ends (4b), wherein contact surfaces (12) for contacting are formed at the free ends (4b). According to the invention, free spaces (10) are formed in the module housing (3, 5), said free spaces extending through the module housing (3, 5) in a vertical direction (v), at least some of the free ends (4b) are arranged at least partially in the free spaces (10), the contact surfaces (12) of at least some of the free ends (4b) extend substantially in the vertical direction (v), and at least some of the free ends (4b) are elastically yielding at least in the area of the contact surfaces (12) thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Christian Brammer
  • Patent number: 8192095
    Abstract: A sensor assembly for a vehicle windshield includes a retaining frame, a sensor housing, clamping hooks, a spring, and an actuating lever. The retaining frame is attachable to the windshield. The clamping hooks are connected to the housing. The clamping hooks are attachable to the retaining frame to attach the housing to the retaining frame. The spring is connected to the housing and associated with one of the clamping hooks. The actuating lever is pivotably mounted to the clamping hooks. Pivoting of the actuating lever causes the spring to compress and press the housing against the windshield when both the retaining frame is attached to the windshield and the housing is attached by the clamping hooks to the retaining frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Josef Kortan, Frank Blaesing, Ralf Boebel
  • Publication number: 20120090910
    Abstract: An electrical arrangement for a motor vehicle includes a starter cable electrically connected with a vehicle battery, a terminal head conductor electrically connected with the starter cable, a terminal base conductor electrically connected with a starter motor, and an electrically nonconductive terminal enclosure defining a cavity in which the terminal head conductor and the terminal base conductor are positioned. The vehicle battery is electrically connected with the starter motor when the terminal head conductor contacts the terminal base conductor in the cavity. The terminal enclosure includes a weakened section offset from the terminal head conductor such that breaking of the terminal enclosure at the weakened section to form a free edge of the terminal enclosure and disconnection of the terminal head conductor from the terminal base conductor results in the terminal head conductor remaining in the cavity and spaced from the free edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Chris Lang
  • Patent number: 8113849
    Abstract: The docking system includes a wall-mounted assembly having an extending contact portion which includes a set of power contacts for supplying power to a medication cart via a docking port located on the medication cart when the cart is engaged with the wall-mounted assembly. The contact portion includes a depending hook member which engages a spring-biased locking solenoid in the docking port to lock the cart to the wall-mounted assembly when the cart is moved into contact with the wall-mounted assembly. The cart can be unlocked by a signal to the locking solenoid from the cart or manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Translogic Corporation
    Inventor: William C. Park, IV
  • Publication number: 20120009804
    Abstract: The connection system is designed to facilitate electrical and data connections between the battery and the electric vehicle. The connectors are designed with alignment mechanisms to account for initial misalignment of the battery and vehicle while still ensuring positive contact between them. The alignment mechanisms also introduce compliance into the system to ensure that the mechanical components of the system are not placed under unwanted loads or stresses. The connection system houses data connectors carrying communication signals as well as power connectors carrying high voltage electricity. The data connectors are shielded to prevent interference caused by proximity to the high voltage elements. The connection system uses no mechanical latching or locking mechanisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Yoav Heichal, Tal Agassi, Shai Agassi
  • Publication number: 20110287636
    Abstract: A multifunction plug connector of an oil pan of a vehicle is provided having connection to a wiring harness of the vehicle outside the oil pan. Inside the oil pan, the multifunction plug connector has a supply line cable to an electronic component. The electrical component inside the oil pan is connected via an oil-tight feedthrough through the wall of the oil pan and via a plug connector situated outside the oil pan on a wall to the wiring harness of the vehicle. The plug connector has plug contacts or plug sockets for this purpose. Inside the oil pan, the multifunction plug connector has multiple separate supply line cables to multiple electronic components, which are connected to an engine control unit via the multifunction plug connector and the wiring harness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Georg ZWICKLER
  • Patent number: 8052427
    Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for coupling an electric motor to a power source, wherein the power source comprises a first conductive member. The connector assembly comprises a non-conductive member having an inner channel configured to receive at least a portion of the first conductive member, a second conductive member slidably disposed within the inner channel, coupled to the electric motor, and configured to be coupled to, and to receive a force having a first direction from, the first conductive member, and a spring member, retained between the non-conductive member and the second conductive member and configured to resist movement of the second conductive member in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Young M. Doo, Mark D. Korich, Mark L. Selogie
  • Publication number: 20110256737
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical coupling system for an electrical charging device having energy storage means of an electrically driven motor vehicle, characterized in that it comprises a support that can be plugged into a recess made in the floor, at least two electrically conducting plates in the support, the plates being electrically connected to the charging device, movement means, capable of moving the plates between a retracted position and an exposed position on the ground, and at least one protective element intended to cover the recess in which the plug-in support is housed when the plates have been retracted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: DELACHAUX S.A.
    Inventor: Gilles Lacour
  • Patent number: 8021165
    Abstract: An arrangement for electrically connecting a motor vehicle accessory to an electrical energy source and to at least one electronic device of the vehicle, including: at least one power connector capable of being mounted on the accessory in a connected position for connecting the accessory to the electrical energy source, and at least one signal connector capable of being mounted on the accessory in a connected position for connecting the accessory to the electric device of the vehicle. The electrical connection of the accessory is performed on a support arranged below the steering column close to the region of a driver's feet. A motor vehicle electric power-assisted steering column equipped with such an arrangement of connectors for the electrical connection thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventors: Jeremie Coiffier, Cyril Guillemot
  • Patent number: 8016607
    Abstract: A connector assembly is provided with a housing having an inlet for receiving an electrical harness, and an outlet for engaging a vehicle receptacle for facilitating electrical charging of a vehicle. The housing includes a plurality of transverse support ribs, a fulcrum and a series of guides. The housing is configured for supporting a distributed load. A latching mechanism, including a lever, linkage and trigger, is externally connected to the housing for selectively attaching the housing to the vehicle receptacle. The lever is pivotally connected to the fulcrum. The linkage is coupled to the lever for pivoting the lever. The trigger is mounted for translation and includes a series of apertures each sized for receiving one of the guides. The trigger actuates the linkage. A shell is disposed over the housing for retaining the latching mechanism to allow repair and/or replacement without exposing electronic components enclosed in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Cecil Lamar Brown, II
  • Patent number: 7993155
    Abstract: The connection system is designed to facilitate electrical and data connections between the battery and the electric vehicle. The connectors are designed with alignment mechanisms to account for initial misalignment of the battery and vehicle while still ensuring positive contact between them. The alignment mechanisms also introduce compliance into the system to ensure that the mechanical components of the system are not placed under unwanted loads or stresses. The connection system houses data connectors carrying communication signals as well as power connectors carrying high voltage electricity. The data connectors are shielded to prevent interference caused by proximity to the high voltage elements. The connection system uses no mechanical latching or locking mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Better Place GmbH
    Inventors: Yoav Heichal, Tal Agassi, Shai Agassi
  • Patent number: 7988453
    Abstract: A vehicle charge inlet structure includes a first socket; a second socket; an electric power storage charged with power supplied from a first charge facility through the first charge connector or from a second charge facility through the second charge connector; a panel opening formed in a panel member defining a vehicle surface of the vehicle; and a box-shaped accommodating member positioned correspondingly to a position of the panel opening, wherein the accommodating member comprises a first wall portion and a second wall portion, and the first wall portion extends in parallel with the vehicle surface and is provided with the first socket while the second wall portion extends diagonally toward the vehicle surface from an end of the first wall portion and is provided with the second socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Weng Leong Loo, Yutaka Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 7972142
    Abstract: A remote battery terminal expander for electrically connecting a plurality of appliances to a vehicle battery is disclosed that includes an electrical terminator assembly having a permanent electrical communication with a wire, where the terminator is adapted for electrical connection to the positive terminal of a battery and this terminator assembly is permanently attached to a conductive metal terminal block. The terminal block has a multi-sided block shape, usually with a rectangular shape. The plurality of appliances are in electrical communication with the electrical terminator assembly by use of alternating threaded apertures in each of the sides for receiving threaded fasteners to electrically secure the appliance wires from the plurality of appliances desired to be hooked to the vehicle battery for its power requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: John Albert Swiatek, Adam Stephen Bonislawski
  • Patent number: 7967617
    Abstract: An electrical connector including a first connector portion and a second connector portion, and interface electronics for providing an interface between terminals associated with the first and second connector portions and a vehicle bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Vonnegut, Neal Pugh, Aleksey Rybalnik, Todd Meaney, Per I. Karlsson, Oscar Lopez
  • Patent number: 7963793
    Abstract: A charge handle for use in charging a plug-in vehicle having a charge port includes a body having a receptacle for engaging the charge port to provide for charging the vehicle. A latch rotatably mounted to the body has a first end for securing the engagement of the receptacle to the charge port, and has a second end. An actuator lever is rotatably mounted to the body. The actuator lever has a first end connected to the second end of the latch, and has a second end. A trigger mechanism includes a trigger located on the opposite side of the body from the latch. The trigger mechanism is arranged such that depressing the trigger pushes the second end of the actuator lever to rotate the actuator lever to cause the latch to rotate and disengage the receptacle from the charge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Marc Poulin, John F. Nathan, Keith Kwasny, Slobadan Pavlovic, Scott Selesky
  • Patent number: 7957891
    Abstract: An ECU for a main remote control has a termination resistance having a first terminal connected to a high level signal line CAN of a CAN cable and a second terminal connected to an external terminal of a connector. The CAN cable also has a low level signal line CAN connected to an external terminal of a connector. A power wire VCC is divided at its midportion, and respectively connected to external terminals of the connector. When a connector is connected, the termination resistance is connected between the high level signal line CAN and the low level signal line CAN of the CAN cable by a jumper line, and power is supplied through a jumper line. When the connector is disconnected, the termination resistance is not connected and the ECU for a main remote control does not operate since no power is supplied thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Okuyama, Masaru Suzuki, Syu Akuzawa, Makoto Ito
  • Patent number: 7950690
    Abstract: A steering wheel (13) for a motor vehicle includes a steering wheel module (1) supporting electrical/electronic subassemblies (18). The steering wheel module is inserted from a front side of the steering wheel into a center of the steering wheel in order to be attached to the steering wheel. A lower end of the steering wheel module forms a torsion module (8) of a torque detection device for a steering power-assist system. The torsion module is operable to receive and be attached to a steering spindle (14) of a steering column on the back side of the steering wheel in order to attach the steering wheel to the steering spindle when the steering wheel module is attached to the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Hirschfeld, Martin Deitmerg, Ralf Böbel, Klaus Nieding, Frank Bläsing, Holger Lettmann, Rüdiger Menz
  • Patent number: 7901215
    Abstract: An electrical harness assembly is provided for coupling a first electrical component in a vehicle to a second electrical component in a removable vehicle portion. The assembly includes a first harness having a first connector and a second connector and configured to be coupled to the first electrical component. The assembly further includes a second harness having a third connector and a fourth connector and configured to be coupled to the second electrical component. In a first state, the first connector mates with the third connector and the second connector mates with the fourth connector, and in a second state, the first connector mates with the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Brad D. Galgoci, Matthew D. Bush, David M. Olney, Jeff W. Harris
  • Publication number: 20110034042
    Abstract: A device (1) for implementing a dry electrical connection of a motor vehicle lock (27), comprising a fastening part (2) for a lock housing (3), wherein an electrical connection to the lock housing (3) can be implemented through an opening (4) of the fastening part (2) from a first side (5) of the fastening part (2), wherein the lock housing (3) has an external plug (7) that is positioned at a distance to the fastening part (2) and at the circumference (8) of which a flexible collar (9) is fastened, extending to the first side (5) of the fastening part (2) and forming a seal (11) with a second distance (10) to the opening (4) of the fastening part (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: KIEKERT AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Sven Albers
  • Patent number: 7871272
    Abstract: An electrical connector for supplying electrical power from a fixed member to a movable member that moves with respect to the fixed member, the movable member bearing an electrical load. The electrical connector has a first connector part fixed to the fixed member and connected to a source of electrical power. A second connector part is fixed to the movable member and is connected to the electrical load. The first connector part and second connector part are movable into electrical engagement when the movable member is moved adjacent the fixed member. The first connector part has a first housing, a movable enclosure in the housing, having first external electrical contacts, and a movable carriage bearing second electrical contacts. The movable carriage has first magnets or magnet attractive components, the second contacts being movable with the carriage by a first magnetic force into electrical engagement with the first contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Casco Products Corporation
    Inventors: Gary Lee Firman, II, David J. Rutkowski, Gregory J. Holland, Ma Ming
  • Publication number: 20100317202
    Abstract: An arrangement for electrically connecting a motor vehicle accessory to an electrical energy source and to at least one electronic device of the vehicle, including: at least one power connector capable of being mounted on the accessory in a connected position for connecting the accessory to the electrical energy source, and at least one signal connector capable of being mounted on the accessory in a connected position for connecting the accessory to the electric device of the vehicle. The electrical connection of the accessory is performed on a support arranged below the steering column close to the region of a driver's feet. A motor vehicle electric power-assisted steering column equipped with such an arrangement of connectors for the electrical connection thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: RENAULT S.A.S.
    Inventors: Jeremie Coiffier, Cyril Guillemot
  • Patent number: 7832306
    Abstract: A housing is constructed of a transmission case and an oil pan and has a space therein. A through hole passes through the transmission case. A pressure control unit is housed in the housing and controls hydraulic pressure supplied to a transmission mechanism by the operation of a solenoid valve. An internal cable is housed in the housing and is electrically connected to the solenoid valve of the pressure control unit. An external cable is electrically connected to an engine control unit outside the housing. A connector is arranged in such a way as to pass through the through hole and is electrically connected to the internal cable and the external cable. The connector has an external exposed portion, which is exposed outside the housing, formed in such a way as to be able to pass through the through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Fuminori Suzuki, Hitoshi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20100285679
    Abstract: An electrical terminal connector assembly includes a protective cover for substantially enclosing an electrical terminal on a vehicle component when the assembly is in a connected or disconnected condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Ryan A. Miller, Eric M. Heitkamp
  • Publication number: 20100285673
    Abstract: A connector assembly comprises a connector having a connector threaded section with threads along a length of an external surface of the connector threaded section; and a barrel nut. The barrel nut comprises a nut threaded section having threads along an internal surface of the nut threaded section, wherein the nut threaded section is barrel shaped having a length and a diameter; a fastening section coupled to the nut threaded section, the fastening section having a length and a non-circular shape comprising a plurality of sides; and a nut circular opening extending through the entire length of the fastening section and the entire length of the nut threaded section; wherein the diameter of the nut threaded section is larger than a diameter of the connector threaded section and smaller than a diameter of an opening in a barrier through which the nut is coupled to the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jason John Orlando
  • Publication number: 20100264284
    Abstract: An in-car mounting structure for portable automotive instrument includes a positioning case installed in a predetermined space behind a dashboard of a car and a portable device holder. The positioning case is internally divided by a partition plate into a first and a second receiving space. A movable gate is pivotally turnably connected to an open end of the first receiving space, and the portable device holder is assembled to an outer face of the movable gate for holding a portable electronic device thereto. A power receptacle is provided in the first receiving space and connected to an in-car power supply, and includes a jack corresponding to a plug of the portable electronic device. With the in-car mounting structure for portable automotive instrument, the portable electronic device can be mounted in the car without blocking the driver's sight during driving or spoiling an esthetic interior appearance of the car.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: CHIN TE LAI
  • Patent number: 7814637
    Abstract: An installation apparatus for installing a wire harness over a fixed structural body and a movable structural body which is slidingly movable to the fixed structural body, the installation apparatus includes a case that receives the wire harness such that the wire harness extends in a sliding direction of sliding movement of the movable structural body, and is folded back into a generally U-shape; and a slider that holds a distal end-side portion of the wire harness extending from the folded-back portion toward a distal end of the wire harness, and is slidably supported on the case so as to move in the sliding direction of the movable structural body, and is operatively connected to the movable structural body so as to move in accordance with the sliding movement of the movable structural body. A slit is formed in a wall of the case, and extends in the sliding direction of the movable structural body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoyasu Terada
  • Publication number: 20100255686
    Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for coupling an electric motor to a power source, wherein the power source comprises a first conductive member. The connector assembly comprises a non-conductive member having an inner channel configured to receive at least a portion of the first conductive member, a second conductive member slidably disposed within the inner channel, coupled to the electric motor, and configured to be coupled to, and to receive a force having a first direction from, the first conductive member, and a spring member, retained between the non-conductive member and the second conductive member and configured to resist movement of the second conductive member in the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: YOUNG M. DOO, MARK D. KORICH, MARK L. SELOGIE
  • Publication number: 20100240229
    Abstract: An electrical connector for supplying electrical power from a fixed member to a movable member that moves with respect to the fixed member, the movable member bearing an electrical load. The electrical connector has a first connector part fixed to the fixed member and connected to a source of electrical power. A second connector part is fixed to the movable member and is connected to the electrical load. The first connector part and second connector part are movable into electrical engagement when the movable member is moved adjacent the fixed member. The first connector part has a first housing, a movable enclosure in the housing, having first external electrical contacts, and a movable carriage bearing second electrical contacts. The movable carriage has first magnets or magnet attractive components, the second contacts being movable with the carriage by a first magnetic force into electrical engagement with the first contacts and being retracted away from the first contacts by a second force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: CASCO PRODUCTS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gary Lee Firman, II, David J. Rutkowski, Gregory J. Holland, Ma Ming
  • Patent number: 7794280
    Abstract: A vehicular electrical system includes an electrical energy storage device, a charge receptacle shaped to mate with a charge plug, at least one fuse connected to the charge receptacle, and a plurality of conductors electrically interconnecting the electrical energy storage device and the at least one fuse. Substantially all of the plurality of conductors are electrically connected between the electrical storage device and the at least one fuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig R. Markyvech
  • Patent number: 7780454
    Abstract: A retaining socket which allows detachable fixing of built-in parts of various kinds with various directions of movement during the fitting to glass panes comprises a base part, optionally serving to glue or otherwise fix the retaining socket to the glass pane, at least one first accommodation space for accommodating a retaining portion of a built-in part introduceable in the direction of movement perpendicular to the base part, and at least one second accommodation space for accommodating a retaining portion of a built-in part introduceable in the direction of movement parallel to the base part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Pilkington Automotive Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Detlef Baranski
  • Patent number: 7775578
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly adapted to be removably coupled to a floor in a vehicle is provided. An electrical component is mounted to the seat assembly. A riser assembly is also mounted to the seat assembly. A first electrical connector is mounted to the riser assembly and electrically coupled to the electrical component. A second electrical connector is adapted to be mounted to the floor. The first electrical connector linearly slidingly engages the second electrical connector as the seat assembly is secured to the floor for electrically coupling the first electrical connector with a vehicle power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel T. McDermott
  • Patent number: 7769346
    Abstract: A wireless electrical connectivity system for use in a vehicle includes a first transceiver coupled to at least one utility carrier and to a first plurality of electrical devices. The first transceiver is configured to communicate a plurality of utility signals. A control module is coupled to a second plurality of electrical devices and configured to control the selection and distribution of utility signals to the second plurality of electrical devices. The control module includes a second transceiver configured to communicate a plurality of utility signals with the first transceiver via a communication link and a user interface configured to receive user input commands regarding the selection of utility signals distributed to the second plurality of electrical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Kim L. Van Order, Eric S. Deuel, Lance M. Hilbelink, Leif Norland, Scott T. Williams, Donald W. Beery
  • Patent number: 7753701
    Abstract: On a holder (8) to be mounted on a vehicle body (b), there are formed a connector-holding portion (12a) for holding thereon a female connector (5) and a male connector (4) fitted in the female connector (5); and a cap-holding portion (12b) for holding thereon a female cap (84) and a male cap (81) that can be mounted on the male connector (4) and the female connector (5) respectively, with the male cap (81) fit in the female cap (84).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeshi Tsuji
  • Publication number: 20100173504
    Abstract: An End of Car (EOC) junction box assembly includes a housing wherein a plurality of female/female contact sockets couple with a corresponding plurality of male contact pins and are positioned by a fitting that enables the female/female contact sockets to interface with an EOC receptacle plug also included in the housing body, such that alternate positions of the fitting and EOC receptacle plug are available during assembly while the components included in the housing body are restrained from rotation following assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: New York Air Brake Corporation
    Inventors: Keith Parnapy, Steven Newton, Bryan McLaughlin, Anthony Lumbis, Patrick Storms, Gary Newton
  • Patent number: 7748986
    Abstract: An End of Car (EOC) junction box assembly includes a housing wherein a plurality of female/female contact sockets couple with a corresponding plurality of male contact pins and are positioned by a fitting that enables the female/female contact sockets to interface with an EOC receptacle plug also included in the housing body, such that alternate positions of the fitting and EOC receptacle plug are available during assembly while the components included in the housing body are restrained from rotation following assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: New York Air Brake Corporation
    Inventors: Keith Parnapy, Steven Newton, Bryan M. McLaughlin, Anthony Lumbis, Patrick Storms, Gary Newton
  • Patent number: 7744401
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for connecting a mechanical, hydraulic and electric connector (1) equipping a heat engine fuel injector to the electromagnet driving the injector, said connector (1) being fixed to a body (2) enclosing the electromagnet and comprising two electric terminals (4) connected to the solenoid (S) of the electromagnet. Said electric terminals (4) are provided each with a pin (15) designed so that when the connector (1) is assembled to the body (2), each pin (15) co-operates with guide means (11, 14) contacting an end portion of the wire (12) of the solenoid (6), the assembling operation resulting in pulling off the insulation in at least one location of said end portion to set up an electrical connection between each terminal (4) and the solenoid (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.
    Inventors: GĂ©rard DeSaint, Jean-Louis Magnaval, Pascal Audineau
  • Patent number: 7740485
    Abstract: An apparatus, when in use, is connected to standby electrical power through a power cord. The apparatus controls the electrical power source to a transportation vehicle with an electrical control device. The electrical control device is energized by a switch. The switch is operated by attaching the transportation vehicle power cord by means of compression via two nylon ties. When tension is present on the transportation vehicle power cord the nylon ties will break. When the nylon ties break, the switch immediately de-energizes the electrical control device and the transportation vehicle power cord. If the transportation vehicle continues to pull on the transportation vehicle power cord, it will be in the de-energized mode. The transportation vehicle power cord will be pulled away from the apparatus and away from the electrical connections through a water tight grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Russell J Edwards, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7735395
    Abstract: An electronic communication wire connecting an input speed sensor and a computer controller in a transmission system is provided. The electronic communication wire connects at one end to the input speed sensor through a first aperture in the transmission case and at the other end to the computer controller through a second aperture in the transmission case. Thus, the electronic communication wire is attached at both ends to internal devices but it partially exists external to the transmission case along the length of the electronic communication wire. The connection between the electronic communication wire and the input speed sensor is sealed with at least a single O-ring while the connection between the electronic communication wire and the computer controller is sealed with at least a pair of O-rings. A method of electronically connecting the input speed sensor and the computer controller externally of the transmission case is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent A. Miller, Heidi L. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7717747
    Abstract: A vehicular power inverter connector assembly is provided. The assembly includes a housing, a plurality of first engagement formations on the housing shaped to mate with a plurality of inverter engagement formations on a vehicular power inverter, a plurality of second engagement formations on the housing shaped to mate with a plurality motor engagement formations on a vehicular motor, and a plurality of current sensors connected to the housing and configured to detect current flowing between the vehicular power inverter and the vehicular motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Korich, Mark L Selogie, Young Doo, Erik Hatch
  • Patent number: 7715961
    Abstract: The method and system use onboard data stream mining for extracting data patterns from data continuously generated by different components of a vehicle. The system stores the data patterns in an onboard micro database and discards the data. The system uses a resource-constrained, small, lightweight onboard data stream management processor, with onboard data stream mining, an onboard micro database, and a privacy-preserving communication module, which periodically and upon request communicates stored data patterns to a remote control center. The control center uses the data patterns to characterize the typical and unusual vehicle health, driving and fleet behavior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Agnik, LLC
    Inventor: Hillol Kargupta
  • Patent number: 7712395
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes a pressure adjusting unit that controls hydraulic pressure supplied to a transmission mechanism by the operation of a solenoid valve. A housing has a heat radiating portion for radiating heat to the outside and houses the pressure adjusting unit. A first connector is so arranged as to pass through the housing and has a control circuit unit electrically connected to the solenoid valve of the pressure adjusting unit. A second connector is electrically connected to an engine control unit outside the housing and engages with the first connector and the heat radiating portion. The second connector is electrically connected to the control circuit unit and presses the first connector onto the heat radiating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Fuminori Suzuki, Hitoshi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20100108808
    Abstract: This system makes it possible to join a substantially flat base of an element to be fixed to a top plate (6). It is provided with: at least one hole (14) of elongated shape made in the top plate (6), a shaft (22) extending substantially perpendicular to the base of the element to be fixed and mounted movable in rotation relative to its longitudinal axis (28), a fixation head (24) of elongated shape matched to the shape of the hole (14) made in the top plate (6) and disposed on a first side of the base of the element to be fixed, control means (34) for making the shaft (22) pivot around its axis (28) and disposed, relative to the fixation head (24), on the other side of the base of the element to be fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: Airbus Operations
    Inventors: Julien ALLAIN, Samuel BURGUNDER, Christophe MIALHE