Patents by Inventor James E Van Hout

James E Van Hout has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6902020
    Abstract: A vehicle battery mounting method and thermal regulation system eliminate seat removal during battery maintenance and costly seat modifications. The thermal regulation system maintains the battery at a desired temperature range to encourage efficient charging and prolonged battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Walter J Kronner, Robert E Tilley, James E Van Hout
  • Patent number: 6827169
    Abstract: A battery mounting system includes a bracket mounted to the automobile frame, a battery tray mounted to the bracket, and a battery retention assembly comprising a formed rod spanning the battery and attaching to the bracket, and a top mount molding adapted to distribute the retention force over the upper surface of the battery. The top mount molding has a substantially flat lower surface for contacting the battery, with a cut-out portion for receiving the caps of the battery cells, and an arcuate upper surface with a center receptacle for receiving the spanning rod. The receptacle is formed by a peripheral wall having opposing slots for directing the rod; the wall also has indexing slots for adapting the mounting system to more than one battery height. The molding also includes laterally extending ears at the surface of the battery for centering the molding between upstanding battery posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: James E Van Hout, Gregory N Corey, Narinder Pal Singh, Zdzislaw J Skorupa
  • Patent number: 6264260
    Abstract: A storage compartment mounted to the floor of a motor vehicle under a seat. The compartment is for storing vehicle components such as car batteries. The compartment includes an opening secured by a strap and the strap is held in place by a removable fastener and a passive restraint. The passive restraint is meant to secure the strap when the removable fastener is not in place so that the contents of the compartment may not exit the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Walter J Kronner, James E Van Hout