Patents by Inventor Robert J. Menard

Robert J. Menard 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).

  • Sensor system for vehicle door
    Patent number: 7175227
    Abstract: A sensor system for protecting a door of a vehicle from damage includes an electronic sensor operable to detect when an object external to the vehicle is within close proximity to the door of the vehicle. The sensor system provides a signal indicative of the proximity of the external object. The sensor system also includes a blocking hinge mechanism coupled with the signal. The hinge mechanism blocks the opening of the door beyond a distance wherein the vehicle door would strike the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Temic Automotive of North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Menard