Patents Assigned to Nicholas Plastics Incorporated
  • Temperature sensing circuit having a controller for measuring a length of charging time
    Patent number: 7385182
    Abstract: A temperature sensor includes a photodiode or other suitable light-sensitive device connected to a power source in a reverse bias configuration. A capacitor and a controller are connected to the photodiode. The controller measures the length of time required for the capacitor to charge to a predetermined voltage, and the known relationship between the dark current of the photodiode and the temperature is utilized to determine temperature. The controller resets the capacitor to zero volts, and repeats the charge/time measurement cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Nicholas Plastics Incorporated
    Inventor: Andrew Sterian
  • Pinch warning and illumination system
    Patent number: 7226112
    Abstract: A light source is incorporated into a weatherstrip or pinch strip assembly mounted on a movable panel or at the opening in a frame or panel which receives the movable panel. The light is illuminated to warn that a movable panel of a vehicle is about to close or open, is closing or opening, or that an obstruction has been encountered. The light can operate intermittently during opening or closing, and continuously when the movable panel is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Nicholas Plastics Incorporated
    Inventor: Kenneth H. Ward
  • Vehicle trim panel securement
    Patent number: 7159926
    Abstract: A vehicle trim panel is secured to a vehicle structural panel by providing a vehicle trim fastener having spaced arms which embrace and overlie the legs on a mount which is seated over the edge of a vehicle structural panel. The embracing arms and corresponding legs prevent lateral shifting of the trim panel relative to the structural panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Nicholas Plastics Incorporated
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Ward, David J. Otto