Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined ratio of the links to each other for motion of the deflector panel. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. The drive shaft transmits the drive from the actuator coupled to one linkage assembly to the other linkage assembly for moving the deflector panel between the deployed/retracted positions. The actuator is clutched to prevent damage to the system.

Abstract: An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel (22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valuable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.

Abstract: A manufacturing process for an active grille shutter arrangement including in-mold assembly of an active aero hinge modular frame that allows for the joining of multiple components that are to be assembled directly out of the molding process tooling. These components could be the vane end pivots, vane end stops, drive linkages, frame end stops, etc. Final assembly of the system is facilitated by geometrical considerations and molding material considerations in the in-mold assembly (IMA) design.

Abstract: A sealed actuator with internal clutching assembly including an output shaft, output detent ring, moving detent ring, and a wave spring, which is fit inside a sealed housing. The moving detent ring is able to move axially to the output shaft and the output detent ring is able to rotate on the output shaft. Intermeshing ramped teeth of these rings are held together by a wave spring and allow the output shaft to rotate and transmit torque of a motor through a main gear operably coupled to an output gear mounted on the output shaft to the outside of the housing. During predetermined high loads, the output and moving detent rings ramped teeth create an axial force that overcomes the load from the wave spring, which allows moving detent ring to disengage and output shaft to rotate freely to help prevent damage to the actuator.

Abstract: An active grille shutter system (AGS) that is assembled from modular components, thereby allowing the AGS to be any desired width or height when assembled. This allows for the creation of different sized AGS for different vehicle platforms, while assembling the AGS from a stock of components that is common to each AGS. The invention is also directed to a method of forming a base integrated end cap with moveable vane retainers and a link arm using a two shot molding process.

Abstract: An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel (22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valueable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.

Abstract: An air dam for a vehicle having a front panel with a downward facing surface at a lateral front edge. At least one air curtain such as an air jet forces air downward toward the ground for creating an aerodynamic barrier of air which reduces turbulence caused by the underbody of a vehicle while the vehicle is underway.

Abstract: A sealed actuator with internal clutching assembly including an output shaft, output detent ring, moving detent ring, and a wave spring, which is fit inside a sealed housing. The moving detent ring is able to move axially to the output shaft and the output detent ring is able to rotate on the output shaft. Intermeshing ramped teeth of these rings are held together by a wave spring and allow the output shaft to rotate and transmit torque of a motor through a main gear operably coupled to an output gear mounted on the output shaft to the outside of the housing. During predetermined high loads, the output and moving detent rings ramped teeth create an axial force that overcomes the load from the wave spring, which allows moving detent ring to disengage and output shaft to rotate freely to help prevent damage to the actuator.

Abstract: A modular gate combined with multiple functions which can be easily employed with existing tailgates without any hardware or mounting modifications to existing truck beds. There is provided a modular tailgate system having a tailgate portion in combination with a plurality of functions. The modular tailgate system integrates any combinations of at least two of the plurality of features without affecting existing body sides and/or existing truck beds. Integrated features include a multi-functional gate (e.g., swing, drop, etc), storage (e.g., normal, sealed, refrigerated, heated, etc), step(s), lighting (e.g., ingress/egress, bed interior, removable, trailer hitch, parking, etc), bed extension(s), power (e.g., 12 v and/or 110 v), tie downs (e.g., ratchets, anchors, etc), sawhorse, magnet(s), table(s), bench(es), seat(s), net(s), any other predetermined desired function, etc., and combinations thereof.

Abstract: An active bed cover system having at least one deployable panel and at least one actuator. The deployable panel extends and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract within the tailgate and/or cargo bed liner allowing for access to the bed and improved usability and aesthetics. The active bed cover provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.

Abstract: An active grille shutter arrangement having a modular frame. The active grille shutter arrangement includes a primary frame piece defining a width and height of an aperture of the modular frame, wherein in the primary frame piece has a motor housing, and upper frame portion having a first end and a second end, a lower frame portion having a first end and a second end and the motor housing extends between the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion. There is a plurality of secondary frame pieces that are adjustably connected to the primary frame pieces, thereby allowing the width of the modular frame to be adjusted.

Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined ratio of the links to each other for motion of the deflector panel. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. The drive shaft transmits the drive from the actuator coupled to one linkage assembly to the other linkage assembly for moving the deflector panel between the deployed/retracted positions. The actuator is clutched to prevent damage to the system.

Abstract: An active grille shutter arrangement having a modular frame. The active grille shutter arrangement includes a primary frame piece defining a width and height of an aperture of the modular frame, wherein in the primary frame piece has a motor housing, and upper frame portion having a first end and a second end, a lower frame portion having a first end and a second end and the motor housing extends between the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion. There is a plurality of secondary frame pieces that are adjustably connected to the primary frame pieces, thereby allowing the width of the modular frame to be adjusted.

Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined ratio of the links to each other for motion of the deflector panel. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. The drive shaft transmits the drive from the actuator coupled to one linkage assembly to the other linkage assembly for moving the deflector panel between the deployed/retracted positions. The actuator is clutched to prevent damage to the system.

Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined geometry and ratio of links to each other for movement of the active front deflector assembly between at least a deployed position and a retracted position. The deflector panel is positionable at multiple heights. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. A drive shaft transmits the drive from one side to the other side. The deflector is both rigid and semi rigid to absorb impact energy.

Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined ratio of the links to each other for motion of the deflector panel. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. The drive shaft transmits the drive from the actuator coupled to one linkage assembly to the other linkage assembly for moving the deflector panel between the deployed/retracted positions. The actuator is clutched to prevent damage to the system.

Abstract: An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined geometry and ratio of links to each other for movement of the active front deflector assembly between at least a deployed position and a retracted position. The deflector panel is positionable at multiple heights. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. A drive shaft transmits the drive from one side to the other side. The deflector is both rigid and semi rigid to absorb impact energy.

Abstract: A sealed actuator with internal clutching assembly including an output shaft, output detent ring, moving detent ring, and a wave spring, which is fit inside a sealed housing. The moving detent ring is able to move axially to the output shaft and the output detent ring is able to rotate on the output shaft. Intermeshing ramped teeth of these rings are held together by a wave spring and allow the output shaft to rotate and transmit torque of a motor through a main gear operably coupled to an output gear mounted on the output shaft to the outside of the housing. During predetermined high loads, the output and moving detent rings ramped teeth create an axial force that overcomes the load from the wave spring, which allows moving detent ring to disengage and output shaft to rotate freely to help prevent damage to the actuator.

Abstract: An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel (22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valueable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.

Abstract: An active grille shutter arrangement having a modular frame. The active grille shutter arrangement includes a primary frame piece defining a width and height of an aperture of the modular frame, wherein in the primary frame piece has a motor housing, and upper frame portion having a first end and a second end, a lower frame portion having a first end and a second end and the motor housing extends between the upper frame portion and the lower frame portion. There is a plurality of secondary frame pieces that are adjustably connected to the primary frame pieces, thereby allowing the width of the modular frame to be adjusted.