Abstract: A friction controlled mechanism configured to operate in conjunction with an assembly having a moveable structure and a stationary structure. The mechanism includes a frame member having a length and a friction based flexible member slidably wrapped around a perimeter of the frame member such that the flexible member travels in opposite directions around the perimeter of the frame member during movement of the moveable structure toward and away from the stationary structure. The flexible member imparts a friction to side rails of the stationary structure and to side rails of the moveable structure to provide a controlled stable movement of the moveable structure.

Abstract: This innovation discloses the use of cameras in lieu of side-view minors on the outside of a truck cab. In operation, the images can be captured via aerodynamically positioned cameras and displayed upon monitors (e.g., LCD (liquid crystal display), LED (light emitting diode)) within the dash area of the driver. In one aspect, the monitors can be manually repositioned (or tilted) thereby effecting movement of the cameras. Other aspects can employ joysticks or buttons to move the camera positions. Yet other aspects include a peripheral view option. Still other aspects include a step light-up option. Still further, the camera assembly can include an object detection/warning system that notifies the driver of objects and other obstructions in the path of the truck. Moreover, video and/or images can be captured, for example for accident recovery or security scenarios.

Abstract: Systems and methods of capturing and channeling air through a wind turbine mounted atop a truck (or vehicle roof) are disclosed. The air can be channeled through a specially designed truck roof into an inlet of a wind turbine. In other aspects, ductwork can be used to channel and direct air captured while the truck is in motion. The wind turbine can be a traditional propeller-based turbine. In other aspects, air foil technologies can be employed to increase air flow to and through a turbine.

Abstract: A recliner assembly that can be deployed within a cab of a truck is disclosed. The recliner assembly includes a seat apparatus having a rear portion recliner mechanism. Additionally, the recliner assembly includes a drop down table/support assembly that enables a lounge-like position. Further, a complementary seat/footrest apparatus can be employed to enhance the recliner/bed position when deployed.

Abstract: An adjustable and tilt-able display cluster and/or instrument panel (I/P) that allows operators of variable height and other physical attributes adjustability to position optimal angle best fit for their viewing is disclosed. The adjustability can also increase forward and peripheral visibility. Additionally, most any controls contained within the I/P reach items can be optimized by the adjustability.

Abstract: A system and method of design and construction of an interlocking vehicle body structure is provided. Each of the braces can be laser or water cut to enhance efficiency, and accuracy, of the design. Additionally, the braces can be equipped with notches, slots or tabs as appropriate so as to effect ease of construction and installation.

Abstract: A method in a data processing system for monitoring for errors on a network. Responsive to detecting a change in a state of the network, determine whether the change in state is a loss of a communications link to a remote data processing system. If the change in state is a loss of the communications link, determine whether the communications link was established for at least a first period of time to be considered an acceptable connection to the remote data processing system; and create a new serviceable event, if a second period of time passes without reestablishing the communications link to the selected data processing system. Repeat occurrences of identical outages are tracked and multiple detected instances of an outage for different partitions are counted as a single failure in the examples.

Abstract: A structural insulation panel is provided for use with a truck or similar vehicle to provide structural support and thermal, acoustic, and vibration insulation. The structural insulation panel includes two fiberglass layers sandwiching and bonded to a foam core. The structural insulation panel may be used in the construction of truck cabs, sleeper boxes, roof caps, cab extenders, and other vehicle components.

Abstract: A method in a data processing system for monitoring for errors on a network. Responsive to detecting a change in a state of the network, determine whether the change in state is a loss of a communications link to a remote data processing system. If the change in state is a loss of the communications link, determine whether the communications link was established for at least a first period of time to be considered an acceptable connection to the remote data processing system; and create a new serviceable event, if a second period of time passes without reestablishing the communications link to the selected data processing system. Repeat occurrences of identical outages are tracked and multiple detected instances of an outage for different partitions are counted as a single failure in the examples.

Abstract: A method in a data processing system for monitoring for errors on a network. Responsive to detecting a change in a state of the network, determine whether the change in state is a loss of a communications link to a remote data processing system. If the change in state is a loss of the communications link, determine whether the communications link was established for at least a first period of time to be considered an acceptable connection to the remote data processing system; and create a new serviceable event, if a second period of time passes without reestablishing the communications link to the selected data processing system. Repeat occurrences of identical outages are tracked and multiple detected instances of an outage for different partitions are counted as a single failure in the examples.

Abstract: A method in a data processing system for monitoring for errors on a network. Responsive to detecting a change in a state of the network, determine whether the change in state is a loss of a communications link to a remote data processing system. If the change in state is a loss of the communications link, determine whether the communications link was established for at least a first period of time to be considered an acceptable connection to the remote data processing system; and create a new serviceable event, if a second period of time passes without reestablishing the communications link to the selected data processing system. Repeat occurrences of identical outages are tracked and multiple detected instances of an outage for different partitions are counted as a single failure in the examples.