Abstract: The present invention generally relates to processes and/or devices that are capable of stopping a vehicle in response to a remote signal. Some embodiments are capable of preserving electrical power to one or more safety-related devices or systems after the engine is shut down. Some devices embodying the present invention can include a receiver, an engine-shutdown means, and a power maintaining means.

Abstract: An article includes a cover member, which can reversibly slide between an open orientation and a closed orientation. The article includes at least one track member disposed on one or opposing sides of the cover member. The article includes at least one support structure adapted to be received by the at least one track member in a sliding relation. The article includes at least one vertical support structure disposed in a fixed position relative to the cover member and adapted to mate with a bottom surface of the cover member in a vertically supporting relation. The article includes at least one mechanical stop limiting the range of motion of the cover member in an opening direction.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to self-aligning electrical coupling devices and related methods. For example, one embodiment can include an aligning means for aligning a central axis of a male connector component with a central axis of a female connector component. The embodiment can also include a rotationally-aligning means for rotationally aligning a male connector component with a female connector component so as to achieve a predetermined rotational orientation. Some embodiments can also an electrically-communicating means for electrically communicating between the male connector component and the female connector component. Some embodiments relate to processes for assembling self-aligning electrical coupling device.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to steering column covers, and related assembly methods. According to some embodiments a steering column cover assembly can include a plurality of alignment and fastening means. For example, some embodiments include one or more sets of male/female clips, one or more track-and-barrel devices, one or more means for accepting a fastener, and one or more pivoting means. In some embodiments, the track-and-barrel device can include a feature for seating the barrel in the track in a snap fitted relation. Some embodiments comprise a process for using one or more of the foregoing structures to assemble a column cover.

Abstract: An arrangement for the deployment of seismic sensor units, such as sensor nodes (24), on the seabed includes a frame structure that is adapted to carry a container (11) for containment of a data registration unit and additional auxiliary equipment for the sensor node. The arrangement has supports (12, 13) that can rest against the seabed, and an attachment means (17) for a lifting hook, for raising and lowering by means of a crane. There is a holder (20) for the sensor node (24) that can be positioned on the seabed and which is connected to the container through a signal cable (32). A releasable attachment means (22) holds the sensor node (24) in a downwardly extending position with respect to the supports (12, 13). The attachment means (22) is located with a horizontal distance from the container (11). A latch mechanism (25) for the attachment means (22) is adapted to release the sensor node (24).

Abstract: An integrated rear spoiler and hinge cover that covers a flip-glass window hinge that is not attached to the flip glass window hinge and rotates from a fully closed position to a fully open position substantially simultaneously with the flip-glass window hinge.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention generally relate to pillow devices comprising a pair of opposing lobe cushions connected by a cross member comprising a neck supporting cushion. In some embodiments the cushions may define a region for receiving a back portion of a human head in a cradling relation. Furthermore, according to some embodiments the cradle region can optionally be adjustable by the user.

Abstract: A modular hydraulic power mechanism provides hydraulic power to a snowplow system for use in moving a snowplow. The hydraulic power mechanism includes a base unit including a base plate, a hydraulic reservoir and a hydraulic pump unit. To the base unit may be added a first hydraulic module that can be mounted to the base plate and that is designed to meet a specific hydraulic need, such as up and down motion, for the snowplow of a first snowplow system. To the same base unit a second hydraulic module may be mounted that is designed to meet a different hydraulic need, such as side to side motion, for the first snowplow system. Alternately, to the same base unit one or more hydraulic modules can be mounted to the base plate in order to provide all the hydraulic needs of a second snowplow system, such as a V-plow.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to devices and methods for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy to power electronic devices. Some embodiments include one or more piezoelectric fibers disposed on a flexible central body capable of elastically deforming under an applied force. The piezoelectric fibers can be in electrical communication with one or more electrodes adapted to harvest electrical energy from the piezoelectric fiber and provide such energy to an external circuit. Some embodiments can also include one or more diodes interposed between the electrode and the external circuit.

Abstract: A seat for installation in a vehicle that is adjustable to support an occupant's thighs. The seat includes a generally-horizontal seat frame supporting a seat cushion including a front edge that at least partially extends outwardly beyond the seat frame, a seatback coupled to the seat frame for providing back support to the occupant while seated, and a seat bracket coupled to the seat frame and compatible with a floor bracket supported above a floor of a vehicle cabin for coupling the seat to the vehicle. The seat further includes an adjustable thigh support adjacent to a front portion of the seat cushion.

Abstract: A system and method for transferring and storing a vehicle's passenger doors is disclosed. The passenger door may be adjusted from a closed condition, preventing a passenger from accessing the interior of the vehicle, to a stored condition where the passenger door is stored within the vehicle's storage compartment. The passenger door remains supported to the vehicle throughout the process.

Abstract: A deicing apparatus may include a reservoir containing a deicing agent, a distribution network, and at least a first nozzle, for deicing a surface, such as a sidewalk. In one embodiment, at least one or more of the reservoir or distribution network is located underground and at least one or more of the reservoir, distribution network, and nozzle is operatively fixed with respect to the associated surface. The apparatus may further be provided with pumping means for pumping the deicing agent through the apparatus.

Abstract: A quick-change tool-holding method and system for securing a tool within a primary tapered recess is disclosed. The tool-holding system includes an adaptor having a tapered exterior that closely approximates interior dimensions of the tapered recess to fit snugly within the tapered recess. The adaptor defines a secondary interior tapered recess and includes an exterior threaded portion about an aperture leading into the secondary tapered recess. A threaded fastener is also provided to include a threaded portion that is cooperable with threads provided adjacent to the primary tapered recess to secure the adaptor therein, as well as an aperture through which at least a portion of the exterior threaded portion of the adaptor extends when the adaptor is secured within the primary tapered recess by the threaded fastener. A collet comprising a plurality of slits formed therein is provided to allow the collet to elastically deform and constrict the tool when placed within an internal passage defined by the collet.

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.