Patents Issued in April 24, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030075908
    Abstract: Inflation apparatuses are provided employing an elongated enclosed housing which contains a non-gaseous, fluid form of gas generant material. The housing can desirably be sufficiently flexible to permit the inflator device to be desirably shaped such as to facilitate the specific placement and location thereof within the interior of a vehicle. Also, provided are associated methods of gas production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Karl K. Rink, David J. Green, Anthony M. Young
  • Publication number: 20030075909
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hybrid gas generator unit (1) used to inflate at least one side airbag, characterized in that it comprises:
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: LIVBAG SNC
    Inventors: Franck Lebaudy, Francois Peremarty, Christian Perotto
  • Publication number: 20030075910
    Abstract: An occupant restraining device (S1) is provided with a shielding member (51F/51R) to be let off from the peripheral edge of a window (WF/WR) of a vehicle so as to shield the window (WF/WR). The occupant restraining device (S1) is further provided with an inflator (82), a cylinder (87) and a piston rod (88) for letting off the shielding member (51F/51R) housed to shield the window (WF/WR). The shielding member (51F/51R) is arranged to substantially rise from the lower edge side (DW) in the peripheral edge of the window (WF/WR). The shielding member (51F/51R) can be smoothly expanded to shield the window (WF/WR) even if the occupant leans against the peripheral edge of the window (WF/WR).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Michio Inoue, Chikaru Totani, Toshinori Tanase, Shinji Oguchi
  • Publication number: 20030075911
    Abstract: Systems of this kind typically are equipped with a roll bar (1) mounted within a cassette-like housing (7) which can be firmly attached to the vehicle and has two U-shaped lateral parts (8, 9) which are linked to one another at the bottom by a bottom part (10) and at the top, by a guide block (11). In order to ensure small assembly dimensions while at the same time offering a low-cost connection method, the invention provides a connection of the guide block (11) to the U-shaped lateral parts (8, 9) in the shape of a form-fit connection (8a, 11a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: ISE INNOMOTIVE SYSTEMS EUROPE GMBH
    Inventors: Stephan Berges, Jozsef Lang, Reinhard Nowack
  • Publication number: 20030075912
    Abstract: An energy absorbing device includes a plastically deformable metal strap for resisting the collapse of a steering column. The strap is initially deformable into one or more V-shaped wave formations by anvils to increase the energy required to advance the strap, thereby increasing the resistance to collapse of the steering column. One of the anvils may be removed to eliminate one of the wave formations and thereby reduce the amount of resistance to collapse of the steering column. Alternatively, the position of an anvil may be varied to vary the shape of a wave configuration from a deep V to a shallow V.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Richard Kremer Riefe, David Michael Byers, Richard Paul Nash
  • Publication number: 20030075913
    Abstract: An energy absorbing device for a collapsible steering column has a plastically deformable strap extending along a track in a base. When the steering column collapses in a collision, the strap moves along the track and a portion of the strap is displaced by a ball in a pocket in the track, which resists strap movement in an amount related to the diameter of the ball. Different diameter balls are provided. One ball is selected depending on the amount of resistance desired. The ball is selected by an actuator operable by a signal generated by a controller in response to a vehicle collision. Alternatively, an anvil displaces a portion of the strap into a U-shape to resist linear movement of the strap. The position of the anvil is adjustable by a stepped adjuster bar to vary the displacement of the U-shaped portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Delphi Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Xiaoyu Li, James Edward Rouleau
  • Publication number: 20030075914
    Abstract: A system (20) comprising a buckle presenter (100) and/or a tongue presenter (200) and mechanism to activate and control each presenter. The buckle presenter and tongue presenter (200) are used to respectively move a seat belt buckle (26) and a corresponding tongue (24) from a stowed position to activated positions generally in front of the occupant to make the process of inserting the tongue into the buckle more convenient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Breed Automotive Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Kohlndorfer, Mark F. Gray, Markell Seitzman, Mohannad F. Murad, Hossam Almasri, Randal Gosk
  • Publication number: 20030075915
    Abstract: An improved slide hatch for a bulk carrier vehicle for removing a hatch cover from an access port on the top of a carrier tank on the vehicle, the slide hatch including a slide carriage connected to the hatch cover and to an actuator which displaces the slide carriage and hatch cover with the slide carriage mounted on a guide rail and connected to an improved, distributed-force cam mechanism for forcing the cover against the access port when the cover is displaced over the port for sealing the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: S.Y. Kim
  • Publication number: 20030075916
    Abstract: The devices of the present invention comprise sturdy foldable, performed protective corners of sturdy construction, preferably acid-free, non-yellowing polymeric film, and preferably having a preformed corner pocket for a convenient, snug fit on a corner, and include a self-sticking adhesive for permanent adhesion to a corner, and methods for making the same. The methods and devices of the present invention comprise sturdy foldable, performed protective corners of sturdy construction, preferably acid-free, non-yellowing polymeric film, and preferably having a preformed corner pocket for a convenient, snug fit on a corner, and include a self-sticking adhesive for permanent adhesion to a corner, and methods for making the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Torry L. Gorski
  • Publication number: 20030075917
    Abstract: A photo album is disclosed, made from a unitary strip of image bearing media having images printed in a pre-determined sequence. A plurality of pages is formed by folding the image media strip between the images into accordion folds and adhering the folds together so that each pair of the images forms two sides of a page. The photo album may have reinforced front and rear photo album covers. A binding holds the pages together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Peter A. Frosig, Joseph A. Manico
  • Publication number: 20030075918
    Abstract: A double blind study label for use in, e.g., a drug study. A first portion of the label, identifying the test drug, is coupled to a vial containing either the test drug or a placebo. The second portion of the label identifies the actual contents of the vial, along with instructions in case of an adverse reaction, but all of which is concealed by an scratch-off, opaque layer. The second portion is severed from the first portion and held by the testing agency. Thus, every participant believes he/she is taking the drug under test. Should the participant suffer and adverse reaction, the testing agency can be contacted whereby the opaque layer is scratched off the emergency instructions relayed to the participant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Levine, Harvey Cheringal, William Cheringal, Russell Vizzi
  • Publication number: 20030075919
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a welded flange connection and to methods and apparatus for producing the connection. A weld insert is disposed between the flared ends of abutted plastic pipe or plastic-lined pipe sections. The weld insert includes an annular support disc having a resistance heating element disposed at least about the inner circumference of the disc. When held tightly between the flared ends of abutted pipe sections power can be applied to the heating element to produce sufficient heat to temporarily raise the temperature of the adjacent surfaces of the flared sections of pipe above their melting point. When the weld is cooled, a strong, fluid-tight, thermoplastic weld is formed. A welded flange connection using the weld insert of the present invention effectively and efficiently produces high quality, fluid-tight connections in plastic pipe and plastic-lined piping systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Bernd Schulte-Ladbeck, Oscar O. Jimenez
  • Publication number: 20030075920
    Abstract: A block for a modular fluid block assembly is disclosed. The block includes first and second opposed faces and first and second apertures from the first face to the second face for receiving a fastener. Each aperture includes a first end and a second end and a head receiving cavity disposed adjacent the first end. The block further includes a fluidic passage passing from the first face to the second face and a pair of fastener receiver cavities in the first face. The block further includes a pair of head receiving cavities in the second face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Mark L. Eriksson, Jeffry R. Markulec, Dennis G. Rex
  • Publication number: 20030075921
    Abstract: A connector for forming a connection between the tubular end of a first fluid conveying member and a threaded end of a second fluid conveying member as a threaded portion (19, 117) for engagement with a threaded end (112) of a second fluid conveying member. The connector is provided with means (39, 141) for engaging an external circumferentially extending groove (31, 137) located on the tubular end of said first fluid conveying member. Means (23, 133) are provided for effecting sealing engagement with said threaded end of said second fluid conveying member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Paul Davidson
  • Publication number: 20030075922
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector includes a connector body which receives a retainer having a radially inward extending projection which is releasably engagable with an annular recess formed in an endform to releasably latch the endform in the connector body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Andre
  • Publication number: 20030075923
    Abstract: Air filter (F), especially for an internal combustion engine motor vehicle, comprising a duct (1) for coupling to an intake duct (5), a female portion (3) of the connecting duct being intended to cover a male portion of the intake duct, characterized in that the female portion (3) has two parallel longitudinal openings (7), the two openings (7) being preferably diametrically opposed, and the female portion (3) includes an end-piece in the form of a frustoconical chamfer (4), so that the female portion (3) is of greater size in cross section than the remainder (2) of the coupling duct (1), and means, preferably removable means, are provided for fastening the filter to the intake duct (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: WECOSTA
    Inventor: Henri Lepoutre
  • Publication number: 20030075924
    Abstract: A drill string includes a plurality of tubular members each having a connection with a pin connector and a box connector on adjacent tubular members. The pin connector has an external thread with negative load flanks and positive stab flanks, adapted for threadingly engaging an internal thread second threads with negative load flanks and positive stab flanks on the box connector of the adjacent tubular member. The positive stab flanks have corner radiuses and the negative load flanks have radiuses forming a S-shape. The pin connector has an outer groove for receiving a protuberance on the terminal end of the box member forming locking shoulders. The protuberance and groove have contoured surfaces providing large metal-to-metal contact for preventing the contoured surfaces from sliding during over-torquing and cyclic bending of the drill string. The negative load flanks and locking shoulders lock the connection together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Huey P. Olivier
  • Publication number: 20030075925
    Abstract: The invention relates to a source chemical container assembly, comprising a metal container functioning as a vacuum chamber and provided with a removable closure, which removable closure seals against the metal container with a metal seal. In order to facilitate easy recharging of the container assembly, compressive force is applied to the metal seal through a tension chain. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the metal seal and the tension chain are provided along a circumference of said metal container. The assembly can comprise an inner container in which the source chemical is contained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Sven Lindfors, Jan von Zweygbergk, Marko J. Kukkonen
  • Publication number: 20030075926
    Abstract: An engine generator includes an engine, a generator coaxially connected to the engine, a soundproofing case, and an exhaust muffler. The soundproofing case is divided into three, that is, a chamber to be cooled, and engine-side and generator-side air intake chambers on opposite sides of the chamber to be cooled. The chamber to be cooled houses the exhaust muffler and the majority of the engine and generator. Ventilation pathways are formed between an exhaust vent, which is provided in an upper part of the soundproofing case so as to open into the chamber to be cooled, and engine-side and generator-side outside air inlets which are provided in the soundproofing case so as to open into the engine-side and generator-side air intake chambers. Air is taken into the two air intake chambers from outside the soundproofing case via the two outside air inlets flows through the chamber to be cooled, and is discharged via the exhaust vent to the outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Toru Fukuda
  • Publication number: 20030075927
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding with an engine driven inverter power supply includes generating an ac output with an engine and generator. The output is rectified and inverted to provide an ac inverter output. The engine is controlled using feedback indicative of a welding output operating parameter. The feedback may also be taken from the inverter or generator, and the generator may be controlled instead of or in addition to the engine. Engine parameters that may be controlled include engine speed, selecting between an idle speed and a run speed, a throttle position, a fuel pump, an injection timer, a fuel to air ratio, fuel consumption and ignition timing. Another aspect of the invention is having the feedback be responsive to one or more of the welding current, welding voltage, welding power, or functions thereof. The feedback may be responsive to the current, voltage, power, ripple and functions thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Beeson, Stephen Li, Alan Smith
  • Publication number: 20030075928
    Abstract: The apparatus converts mechanical, or kinetic, energy into electricity, the energy being produced through the relative movement of two pistons toward and away from each other. At least one object (which can be either magnetized, a rod, or both) reciprocates between the first and second pistons as these pistons move toward each other, on odd numbered approaches the object moves from the first piston to the second and on even numbered approaches it moves from the second piston back to the first piston. A conductive coil in one of the pistons converts the kinetic energy of the magnetized reciprocating object into electrical energy. To drive the object toward the second piston with greater speed (hence greater energy content) a current of appropriate polarity applied to the coil in the first piston ejects the object with said increased speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Donald G. Carpenter
  • Publication number: 20030075929
    Abstract: The invention concerns a wind power plant, especially a horizontal-axle wind power plant with a rotor axle running preferably about horizontally and at least one rotor having a rotor blade extending transversely, preferably approximately perpendicularly, to the rotor axle, an adjusting means to adjust the at least one, and preferably each, rotor blade, with which the adjustment is variable with respect to the torque at the rotor axis generated by the wind load, and a stabilizing system with which the rotor can be stabilized in at least one specified, especially low-load rotational position (park position), with the stabilizing system having a coupling and particularly a control means which can be coupled to the adjusting means, such that the stabilizing system has a coupling, particularly a control means which can be coupled to the adjustment means, with which an adjustment of at least one rotor blade can be initiated in case of deviation from the specified rotational position, particularly in case of a rotat
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Roland Weitkamp
  • Publication number: 20030075930
    Abstract: A latch for a tubular door lock employing a cam rotatable by door knob or door lever to retract a bolt extracting plate backward to open the lock which is positioned between two parallel framing plates and adapted to move from anterior position to posterior position with respect to the plates and an exterior box frame enclosing the parallel plates and the cam and supporting the cam for rotation. The external box frame adapted to be moved anteriorly or posteriorly to enable the tubular door lock to be utilized in a 2⅜ or 2¾ setback position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Wen Mak
  • Publication number: 20030075931
    Abstract: Coupling between a unit main body and a front panel is detachably carried out by catching means and coupling means. The coupling means comprise slide means 33 provided with a slide plate 24 which slides with respect to a bracket hardware 24 embedded in the unit main body, and holding means 28 provided at a front face of the slide plate 24 and for holding the front panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Inoue, Shigeo Hiramoto
  • Publication number: 20030075932
    Abstract: A device for preventing removal of a lid from a container. The device has a cover with a top which is adapted to fit over a lid of a container and an engagement means consisting of an upper continuous cylindrical wall and a lower section of integral and flexible leg segments. Each leg segment has a lateral portion or rib for engaging a neck part of the container to prevent removal of the cover from the container. Retaining means in the form of three independently rotatable locking rings prevent disengagement of the engagement means from the container. The deice is used on a typical drinking bottle with a screw on cap to prevent removal of the cap thereby maintaining hygiene and safety aspects of the liquid contents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Denis William Dolan
  • Publication number: 20030075933
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lock comprising a housing (5) and a strap (1) that has a first end (2) and a second end (6), said housing (5) comprising: means (4) for securing the first end (2) of the strap (1); an interior cavity (40); a first (7) and a second (8) opening that give access from the exterior to said cavity (40), and allow advancement through the housing (5) of the second end (6) of the strap (1); a first interior, longitudinally extending wall (9) and a second opposed, interior, longitudinally extending wall (10), said walls extending between said first and second openings; a locking device (14) arranged within the cavity (40) between the first (9) and the second (10) walls and that defines a nipping area (45) for securing the second end (6) of the strap (1); and support areas (50) for the strap (1) whereby turning of the strap (1) about its longitudinal axis is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Jens Velschou, Preben Michael Remark
  • Publication number: 20030075934
    Abstract: A power striker mechanism (10) has a housing (22). A striker (18) is mounted on a striker plate (20) that is mounted on the housing for sliding movement between an inboard and an outboard position. A driver plate (44) is mounted to the housing for sliding movement in a direction orthogonal to the movement of the striker plate (20). An actuator (16) effects movement of the driver plate (44) to thereby effect movement of the striker plate (20) between the inboard and outboard positions. The striker plate (20) has a pin (36) and the driver plate has an S-shaped slot (42). The pin slidably engages the S-shaped slot. The S-shaped slot has end regions extending generally parallel to each other and in the orthogonal direction and is interconnected by a diagonally extending section. When the pin (36) is in the end regions of the S-shaped slot, forces imparted on the striker plate (20) are transmitted to the housing (22) and thereby preventing backlash of the actuator (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Peter Lance Oxley, Gordon Andrew Paton
  • Publication number: 20030075935
    Abstract: An impact damper as a connecting member between a bumper and a chassis of a motor vehicle for the purpose of damping the shock loading during a collision between this motor vehicle and an obstacle, predominantly through deformation work in a tube of the impact damper. The tube is connected to the chassis via a bracket and to the bumper via a bumper receptacle, the bumper receptacle. The bracket and the towing lug with the tube are connected to one another by a joining technique before they are connected to one another by a stamping operation. The advantage of the invention lies in low-cost production without compromises in terms of the functioning of the impact damper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: ZF Boge GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Dohrmann
  • Publication number: 20030075936
    Abstract: A wafer blade for picking up or delivering wafers from or to a wafer cassette or a process tool is described. The wafer blade carries a wafer on a top surface of the blade, and is capable of detecting any undesirable contact with wafers on a bottom surface of the blade. The wafer blade is constructed by a blade body of generally elongated shape that has a top surface and a bottom surface parallel to each other, and a strain sensor such as a piezoelectric thin film sensor mounted on and at least partially cover the bottom surface of the blade body for detecting any contact with the wafer and for sending an alarm signal to a central process controller when such contact or scratch of a wafer has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-Keng Hsu, Chun-Chih Lin, Chao-Lin Lee, Tin-Hau Kuo
  • Publication number: 20030075937
    Abstract: A disc handling tool includes a housing and first and second arms which are pivotally mounted to the housing in spaced relation to each other. A first gripper is located adjacent a distal end of the first arm. A second gripper is located adjacent a distal end of the second arm. The first and second grippers fit about a peripheral edge of an associated disc with the grippers being tangential to the peripheral edge of the associated disc. A locking member is provided for locking at least one of the first and second arms in one end position in relation to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Maf-Nif Incorporate
    Inventors: Jerzy Perkitny, James Groman, James M. Elliott
  • Publication number: 20030075938
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing snow and other accretions from difficult to reach areas of motor vehicles. The apparatus comprises an elongated body having opposing first and second ends. The first end comprises an extension that is angled and laterally flared with respect to the elongated body, and which terminates in a substantially transverse edge. The extension is provided with a pair of sidewalls and a rib that provide rigidity and strength thereto, and whose edges may be used for scraping and chipping. The second end of the apparatus comprises a scoop-shaped body that is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the elongated body and which terminates in a curved edge. The different configurations and orientations of the first and second ends enable the apparatus to easily remove snow and other accretions from such hard to reach areas as fender wells and mud flaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Winston R. Hultstrand
  • Publication number: 20030075939
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process and apparatus for mounting semiconductor components to substrates. More particularly, the apparatus includes a placing mechanism positioned on a support frame for placing the semiconductor components to the substrates. A reflow oven/furnace is integrated into the apparatus, thereby eliminating the need to transport the semiconductor components and substrates to an external furnace. Another feature of the present invention involves providing an improved vacuum substrate chuck array adapted for efficient application of suction to substrates carried thereby. Yet another feature of the invention involves a fluxless reflow process for inhibiting oxidation of eutectic solders provided on substrates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: LI LOGIX, INC., d/b/a RD AUTOMATION
    Inventors: Zvi Bendat, Henry Chou, Lionel Powell
  • Publication number: 20030075940
    Abstract: An air-tight bailer is filled completely and closed at its open upper end with a flat cap so that no ambient air is trapped in the bailer. A mounting member to which a rope is secured for lowering and lifting the bailer is recessed with respect to the open upper end of the bailer so that it does not interfere with the cap. A disc-shaped protuberance formed on the bottom of the cap fills the recess. An annular groove around the recess receives the rim of the open upper end to enhance an air-tight seal between the cap and the open upper end. In a first embodiment, the bailer is emptied by piercing a thin membrane formed in the cap with a spout device having a trailing end in fluid communication with a container. A second embodiment eliminates the membrane and the spout device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: David W. Pratt
  • Publication number: 20030075941
    Abstract: A linear slide gripper assembly is provided having a linear slide assembly to a gripper assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Bruce D. McIntosh, Kenneth A. Steele, William David Givens, William E. Davenport
  • Publication number: 20030075942
    Abstract: This invention relates to a safety wheel for subway coach bogie, or the like, running on pneumatic tires, adapted to be interposed between a chassis of the bogie and a corresponding tire, said wheel presenting an outer peripheral zone comprising a braking portion as well as a guiding portion projecting radially outwardly from the braking portion, the hardness of the braking portion being much greater than the hardness of the guiding portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: ALAIN LANDROT, FRANCOIS DEMILLY
  • Publication number: 20030075943
    Abstract: A work station for use with a tailgate of a truck is provided. The work station includes a first part that is adapted to be mounted to the tailgate of a truck. The work station includes a second part that is hingedly connected to the first part to pivot between an open and closed position. In the closed position, the second part generally overlies the tailgate. In the open position, the second part extends generally rearwardly from the tailgate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Michael R. Kirchhoff
  • Publication number: 20030075944
    Abstract: A receptacle assembly for mounting in a vehicle is disclosed. The assembly includes a housing shell (12), a case (18) that is pivotally mounted in the shell to be movable between an open position and a closed position, a spring biasing the case to the open position and a latching mechanism for latching the case in the closed position. The latching mechanism releases the case from the closed position under the action of a push onto the case against the force of the spring moving the case to a pushed position. The assembly further includes a blocking device with a blocking body (22) that is spring biased to a normal rest position and movable under inertial forces to an active blocking position. The blocking body (22), in the normal rest position, permits free pivotal movement of the case (18) and, in the blocking position, blocks movement of the case from the closed to the pushed position, thereby preventing the case from accidentally pivoting to the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: TRW Automotive Electronics & Components GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Sasa Galijasevic
  • Publication number: 20030075945
    Abstract: An arrangement for holding beverage cans or similar receptacles in the interior of vehicles is provided inside, in the upper area of a glove compartment, and comprises at least one receiving part for at least one beverage can. The receiving part is displaceable from a covered inoperative position inside the glove compartment into an operative position in front of the dashboard, and a swivellably disposed glove compartment cover is assigned to the glove compartment. When the receiving part is displaced into the operative position, the arrangement does not require the opening of the glove compartment cover. The glove compartment cover extends only approximately to the lower edge of the arrangement, and the arrangement comprises at least one separate flap which has a low height and can be operated separately from the glove compartment cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Matthias Zierle, Martin Frank
  • Publication number: 20030075946
    Abstract: A seat assembly for use in an automotive vehicle comprising a seat cushion having a bottom surface extending between front and rear portions and a seat back pivotally coupled to the seat cushion for movement between an upright position and a folded flat position against the seat cushion. A spaced apart pair of risers is fixedly secured to the floor of the vehicle. A support bar extends between the risers spaced above the floor of the vehicle for pivotally supporting the seat assembly between a seating position generally parallel with the floor of the vehicle for supporting an occupant and a forwardly stowed position with said seat cushion generally upright relative to the floor of the vehicle. A pair of retractable support legs are pivotally coupled to the bottom of the seat cushion for movement between a support position extending between the seat cushion in the seating position and the floor of the vehicle and a storage position nested within a slot formed in the bottom of the seat cushion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Colin G. Neale, Carl J. Holdampf
  • Publication number: 20030075947
    Abstract: Molded articles (10, 10′) are designed to be received within a space (S) between a window frame (2) of a vehicle body panel (1) and a window panel (7) attached thereto. The molded articles may include a molding body (11) arranged and constructed to partially contact the window panel when the molded article is received within the space. The molded article further may include an elastic lip (30) continuously extending from the molding body and arranged and constructed to partially elastically contact the window frame and to elastically deform when the molded article is received within the space. Moreover, a connecting strip (31) may continuously extend between the elastic lip and the molding body. The connecting strip is preferably arranged and constructed to apply a force to a portion of the molding body when the elastic lip is elastically deformed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Tokai Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Fujiwara
  • Publication number: 20030075948
    Abstract: A roof structure of a motor vehicle with a movable front cover mechanism for closing or at least partially clearing a front roof opening and with a rear hatch or rear window which is connected to the front cover mechanism and which can be swiveled up around its front edge for clearing a rear roof opening. The front cover mechanism is supported on a module frame which is assigned to the front roof opening and which is attached to the body-mounted roof frame. On a rear transverse frame part of the module frame is a swivel bearing mechanism for permitting the swiveling up and down of the rear hatch or rear window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Webasto Vehicle Systems International GmbH
    Inventor: Francois De Gaillard
  • Publication number: 20030075949
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for a first ornamental molding 2, comprises a second molding 10 independent of the first ornamental molding 2 and integrally fixed to and along the periphery of a window glass 1, and a molding clip 6 for holding the first molding 2. The molding clip 6 is fixed to the second molding 10 upon a molding process of the second molding. The molding clip 6 includes a body portion 17 defining therein a space for receiving an engagement portion 29 of the first molding, an engagement pawl 18 disposed on the inside of the body portion and adapted to engage with the engagement portion 29 of the first molding, and a flange 19 formed on the outside of the body portion and enclosed in the second molding 10 so as to fix the molding clip 6 to the second molding 10. The molding clip 6 is adapted to be positioned in a gap between the periphery of the window glass and a window frame 11 of a vehicle body by placing the window glass 1 on the window frame 11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Hideki Kanie, Toru Koike
  • Publication number: 20030075950
    Abstract: An apparatus for increasing the safety of automobiles traveling at high speeds capable of increasing the downward force on a yawed vehicle comprises in one embodiment an air inlet opening, an air exit opening, and an air path, wherein the air exit opening directs flowing exiting air in such a manner as to avoid interfering with the air spoiling operations of the surface of the vehicle. In an alternative embodiment, the invention comprises an air inlet opening, an air exit opening, an air path, and a platform fixed at one end to a rear underside portion of the vehicle that pivots open under the force of flowing air to disrupt air flowing under a yawed vehicle to thereby exert a downward force on the yawed vehicle. A method of directing air into a yawed vehicle traveling at high speed to exert a downward force on the yawed vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Clayton B. Rees
  • Publication number: 20030075951
    Abstract: A pair of left and right front frames are formed with brittle sections on proximal portions of the frames, by the provision of the smaller cross-sectional area than other sections of the frame. The brittle sections and their peripheral sections are processed so as to become approximately equal to the other sections of the front frames in axial compressive strength by way of a hardening treatment like quenching. In an early-phase of a collision, the hardened brittle sections will not buckle so as to induce larger initial load. Thereafter, the brittle sections will buckle because of their lower ductility, so that the front frames begin bending deformation to effectively absorb the collision energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Katsunori Hanakawa, Kyoso Ishida, Takayuki Sunakawa, Yukihiro Sugimoto
  • Publication number: 20030075952
    Abstract: In a front gable portion (13) of a rubber-tired new traffic vehicle (11), an outer bumper (45) is fixed to the exterior of an inner bumper (32) constituting an underframe (33), front beams (47, 48) and side beams (49) are constructed between a roof frame (42) and the outer bumper (45), the front beams (47, 48) are inclined and curved in harmony with the streamlined design of the vehicle (11), and straight portions (47a, 48a) of predetermined lengths are formed in lower end portions of the front beams (47, 48) along a vertical direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Mochidome, Yoshinori Mitsui, Naofumi Nagaike, Tatsuaki Hayashida
  • Publication number: 20030075953
    Abstract: A resin impact energy absorbing component that is disposed between a structural member of an automobile and a resin internal material arranged on the inner side of the compartment with respect to the structural member, is constituted by arranging a high-rigidity brittle fracture portion and a low-rigidity ductile fracture portion in a parallel fashion. “High-rigidity brittle fracture portion” can be defined as a component that has a large repulsive force at unit deformation (load [N]) and that undergoes fracture at low deformation, and “low-rigidity ductile fracture portion” can be defined as a component that has a small repulsive force at unit deformation (load [N]) and that undergoes fracture at high deformation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited
    Inventors: Tomoo Hirota, Yosuke Miyazaki, Masaaki Tsutsubuchi
  • Publication number: 20030075954
    Abstract: In a body pillar for a motor vehicle, which is put together from a plurality of profiled shells to form a hollow pillar which includes a wall pillar section and a roof pillar section angled with respect thereto, a reinforcing tube being fastened within the hollow pillar, the tube extending in the longitudinal direction of the roof pillar section into the wall pillar section. The reinforcing tube is supported in the transition region between the roof pillar and wall pillar section by an end of a strut which extends in the vertical direction of the wall pillar section and encloses a supporting angle with the reinforcing tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: Klaus Braitmaier, Roland Joerg
  • Publication number: 20030075955
    Abstract: A modular overhead console assembly and headliner combination for a vehicle includes a structural member having an upper surface attachable to a vehicle roof and a lower surface having a slot including at least one receiving surface formed through the structural member. At least one accessory module having a storage area defined within a housing to retain materials is removably secured to the at least one receiving surface associated with the slot in the headliner by at least one arm extending from a top surface of the housing of the at least one module. A method of assembling the overhead console and headliner combination is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventors: John M. Tiesler, Alan Sturt, Tracy L. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20030075956
    Abstract: In an automotive sun roof system, each of the front sliders is provided with at least three laterally extending slide shoes including a front inboard slide shoe, a rear inboard slide shoe and a front outboard slide shoe located intermediate between the inboard slide shoes with respect to a fore-and-aft direction, and the guide rail is provided with an inboard side defining an inboard guide slot and an outboard side defining an outboard guide slot adapted to receive the corresponding slide shoes, the outboard side of the guide rail being provided with a front end which is rearwardly offset from that of the inboard side of the guide rail. Thus, the front end of each guide rail is advanced as much as possible without increasing the exposure of such parts to the moisture that may drip from the fixed roof panel and/or moveable panel by taking into account the rounded shape of the opening in the fixed roof panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha and Yachiyo Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Michio Tamura, Masaharu Ohnishi, Tatsuya Ohara, Tatsuaki Uehara, Koichi Hotta
  • Publication number: 20030075957
    Abstract: A juvenile seat is provided including a base and a cup holder. The cup holder is pivotably coupled to the base to move between a closed position adjacent the base and an opened position extending from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: James M. Kain