Patents Issued in January 15, 2004
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Publication number: 20040007854Abstract: An airbag module includes a gas generator comprising at least one snap connection element and a gas generator holder for the gas generator which has a complementary snap connection element to the snap connection element of the gas generator, with the snap connection elements being formed such that the gas generator can be fixed to the gas generator holder by means of a snap connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: James Lloyd Webber, Sabina Asic
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Publication number: 20040007855Abstract: To provide an air bag apparatus for a small size vehicle, wherein a seat for a driver is provided at a rear portion of a vehicle body and an instrument panel, which a driver on the seat can visually observe is provided at a front portion of the vehicle body. The air bag apparatus assures a wide range of inflation and expansion of an air bag and can be applied to a conventional small size vehicle without a significant design change. A plurality of air bags which can constrain a driver on a seat from a forward direction are connected to each other by a connection mechanism and are accommodated in a folded state in an instrument panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Norihiro Kurata, Takeshi Yamazaki, Takeshi Kuroe
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Publication number: 20040007856Abstract: An inflatable rigid knee airbag system for assisting in positioning and decelerating a vehicle occupant is disclosed. The system includes an inflatable knee airbag having a front panel, an annular, accordion-folded bellows panel, and a rear panel having an inflation orifice and mounting brackets; and a pyrotechnic inflator. The system helps to improve the kinematics of a vehicle occupant in relation to a primary airbag cushion by bolstering the knees of the occupant. The system of the invention may be mounted in a vehicle in a panel under the steering column, in the door of a glove box, or in the lower section of the instrument panel of the vehicle directly in front of the occupant's lower legs.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Mark L. Enders, Robert J. Hays
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Publication number: 20040007857Abstract: The invention provides a self-contained, compact inflatable airbag deployment guide comprising an inflatable bladder attached to an inflatable airbag module. The inflatable bladder inflates early in the deployment of the airbag, thus filling, bridging, or covering void space located near the airbag cushion. The airbag cushion is then able to deploy properly on its intended route through the headliner trim of the vehicle without being delayed, damaged, or caught.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: John Sonnenberg, Dave Hoeft, Bob McGee, Jim Sonnenberg
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Publication number: 20040007858Abstract: An apparatus and method for damping vibration of a vehicle part, such as a steering wheel or an electric motor, is provided. According to one embodiment, an apparatus (26) for damping vibration of a vehicle part (12) includes at least one container (50) having a chamber (56) defined by at least one interior wall (58). The container (50) is associated with the vehicle part (12). A plurality of particles (52) is disposed in the chamber (56). The particles (52), when at rest, occupy a first portion (82) of the chamber (56) and define an unoccupied second portion (84) of the chamber. The particles (52) move back and forth between the first and second portions (82 and 84) of the chamber (56) in response to vibration of the vehicle part (12) and collide with each other and with the interior wall (58) defining the chamber to damp the vibration of the vehicle part.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicants: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc., TRW Inc.Inventors: Stepan S. Simonian, Charles S. Pillsbury, William P. Braun, A. Dale Parker
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Publication number: 20040007859Abstract: The present invention involves a method of actuating a deployment of a vehicle airbag during an impact event of a vehicle. The method includes providing a vehicle impact sensor having a plurality of elements, wherein each element is adapted to generate an impact sensor signal having a sensor signal value representing a level of impact. The method further comprising receiving an impact sensor signal from each element during the impact event of the vehicle and summing the sensor signal values of the impact sensor signals to define an aggregate sensor signal value. The method further includes determining a number of impact sensor signals having respective sensor signal values greater than an active element threshold value to define a number of active elements and determining a threshold aggregate sensor signal value based on the number of active elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2001Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Anne Marie Shields, Paul Kirk Zoratti, Mark Edward Shields
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Publication number: 20040007860Abstract: An airbag trigger control system is provided with a first sensor which is disposed in a predetermined position in a vehicle body and outputs a signal corresponding to an impact exerted to the vehicle body, a trigger control system which triggers an airbag when a parameter determined on the basis of the signal output from the first sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value, a second sensor which is disposed forward of the first sensor in the vehicle body and outputs a signal corresponding to an impact exerted to the vehicle body, and a threshold value changing device which changes the predetermined threshold value in accordance with the signal output by the second sensor. The second sensor outputs a predetermined signal at predetermined intervals, and the threshold value changing device changes the predetermined threshold value to a given value when the output signal of the second sensor is not detected in a predetermined number of successive control cycles.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Yujiro Miyata, Tomoki Nagao, Katsuji Imai, Motomi Iyoda
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Publication number: 20040007861Abstract: An aesthetically pleasing rear window protector for pickup trucks is made up of a main arcuate member and one or several smaller arcuate members that are welded at their ends to the main member and to each other to form any of various alternative arrangements. The rear window protector is used to protect the occupants of the truck from very large moving objects, such as a lawn mower, that might otherwise cause harm when the vehicle comes to a sudden stop.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Shawn Hagen
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Publication number: 20040007862Abstract: An inflatable rigid knee airbag system for assisting in positioning and decelerating a vehicle occupant is disclosed. The system may include a front and a rear rigid panel, which may be made from sheet metal. The front and rear rigid panels define at least a portion of an inflatable chamber. The inflatable chamber is in fluid communication with an inflator that injects inflatable gas into the inflatable chamber when accident conditions exist. A support core positioned between the front and rear panels dampens vibrations of the front and rear panels and minimizes unsightly denting of the front panel when the inflatable rigid knee airbag system is in a pre-deployment state. The support core may be made from foam.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Mark L. Enders
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Publication number: 20040007863Abstract: A tilt adjusting type steering apparatus for a vehicle, comprises a front column member fixed to a car body, a rear column member connected in a swayable manner to said front column member, a fixed gear formed on one of the front column member and the rear column member, a movable gear formed on the other of the front column member and the rear column member, a gear pressing lever swayed to effect fastening at a tilt adjusted position by making the movable gear mesh with the fixed gear or to effect releasing from the tilt adjusting position by disengaging the two gears from each other, and an operator lever for interlocking with and swaying the gear pressing lever while being swayed by an operation of an operator.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: NSK Ltd.Inventor: Daijiro Yamasaki
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Publication number: 20040007864Abstract: A lightweight, high strength, one-piece subframe and suspension for a trailer that cuts down on the weight of the trailer without diminishing the strength as compared to conventional trailers, and that is compatible with a conventional air ride suspension system. The invention comprises at least two beams positioned generally parallel to each other; a plurality of ribs attached to the at least two beams and positioned extending transverse between and generally perpendicular to the at least two beams; at least one hangar attached to each beam; and wherein the trailer suspension subframe is made of aluminum.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: East ManufacturingInventor: James H. Adams
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Publication number: 20040007865Abstract: A pushing stick and a ring for the same. The lower end of a shaft comprises a stick ring comprising a fastening part and a projection-like ring frame attached to the fastening part. The bar-like ring frame is directed forwards with respect to the direction of travel and its front is provided with at least one spike. Said spike then resides at a distance from the central axis of the shaft, whereby a bending moment is directed to the ring frame on account of the push force. The ring frame is rigid in order to be able to transmit the bending moment being formed to the lower end of the shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: EXEL OYJInventor: Markku Rosnell
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Publication number: 20040007866Abstract: Album pages for storing cards securely in place without slipping are disclosed. The album pages comprise a pocket located on a backing sheet. In a further embodiment, the pages comprise a sleeve located on the opposite side from the pocket. When a card mounted within the inventive album pages, the cards are securely retained within the pages and do not slide. The cards can be any type of generally flat items, such as photographs, greeting cards, invitations, or postcards. The invention also comprises an album page containing the inventive pages.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Nathalie T. Warriner, Marshall L. Weingarden
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Publication number: 20040007867Abstract: A document or manuscript cover and/or holder has an extension above the document inserted into the cover so that, if it is in a file without other documents on top, it can be read like a book without removing it from the file. Even if there are other documents filed on top of the document in the cover, the documents on top need only be rolled back because space provided between the file clips that hold the documents in the file, on the one hand, and the document to be read, on the other hand, permits the documents on top to be rolled back so that the document in the cover can be read without removing it from the file and without the other documents being in the way. This is particularly important when the document within the cover is printed on both sides of the page because it can still be read like a book.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Robert O. Vaughan
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Publication number: 20040007868Abstract: A book covering is provided that includes a front cover portion and a back cover portion connected to the front cover portion by a spine. A unique identifier is printed on the book covering. A surface coating can be disposed over portions of the covering. In some embodiments, the unique identifier is printed on the back cover portion. In other embodiments, the unique identifier is a bar code. Methods for printing book coverings, product packaging and products are also provided and include providing a printing press having means for printing variable data so that the unique identifier can be printed on-press. Methods for determining whether a refund should be issued for a book or product are also provided. The methods include correlating the unique identifier with information and upon receiving a returned product, determining the price based on the unique identifier to determine the amount of refund to issue, if any.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicants: Sue Ann Werling, Evan Alan WerlingInventor: Evan Alan Werling
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Publication number: 20040007869Abstract: A discrete micro particle having a micro image, a method of making discrete micro particles and use in authentication of products. The micro images are printed on a photo sensitive layer on a media and the media is ground into small discrete particles on which the micro images can be viewed for verification of the authenticity of a product on which the micro particles have been placed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: David L. Patton, John P. Spoonhower
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Publication number: 20040007870Abstract: In a trading card, a famous athlete's photograph is printed on a substrate of, for example, paper or plastic. The trading card has a signing portion and a seal portion. An IC chip is mounted in the trading card. An autograph is signed in the signing portion, and a seal is affixed in the seal portion. The signing portion and the seal portion are surface-treated; e.g., by means of increasing the surface friction, so that clear signing and seal affixing can be performed. The seal has a seal profile representing a character or a symbol relating to an athlete, preferably unique to him or her; e.g., the athlete's name, uniform number, or motto, etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: R & B 21Inventor: Takashi Ueno
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Publication number: 20040007871Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid connector, comprising a shaft having at least one solid shaft element and a plurality of connector surfaces, wherein the plurality of connector surfaces includes a surface with a plurality of threads and a plurality of grooves.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Robert Brewer, Gerard Jakuszeski
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Publication number: 20040007872Abstract: Tool module interconnect for interconnecting to adjoining modules for insertion in a drill string features a system which permits making the electrical interconnection before assembly of the mechanical connections to interconnect the tool modules together. The interconnect comprises a hollow interconnect body open at both ends. A wire harness is provided in the hollow body with terminal end connectors accessible from the respective open end of the interconnect body. Both ends of the interconnect body are threaded with at least one end having a rotatable threaded sleeve adapted for connection to a tool module by a threaded collar. The ends of the interconnect body are adapted to receive seals for sealing each end of the interconnect body to a respective threaded collar when assembled to prevent thereby ingress of drilling mud into the hollow interconnect body. An interlock is provided at least at one end of the interconnect body with rotatable thread sleeve to engage the interconnect body with the tool module.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Rishi Gurjar, Michael T. Sutherland, Karim Kanji
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Publication number: 20040007873Abstract: To seal a pipe mortar, a sealing element (3, 6) is inserted between the pipe (1) and the base (2), with the element elastically balancing out the axial relative movements between the pipe (1) and the base (2). The sealing element (3) is preferably prestressed, with the gas pressure supporting the sealing effect. The sealing element (3, 6) can be a U-shaped or L-shaped steel ring. In the U-shaped sealing element (3), the legs (3.1) are axially prestressed to the extent that the sealing ring (3) and the pipe (1) or the base (2) are pressed together to produce an adequate seal. In the L-shaped sealing element (6), the inside leg (6.1) produces the gas-tight connection when the pipe (1) and the base (2) are screwed together. A sealing lips (6.2) of the sealing ring (6) elastically absorbs changes in length between the pipe and the base that occur during firing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: Rheinmetall W & M GmbHInventors: Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Henning von Seidlitz, Marold Elspass, Rolf Bartolles
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Publication number: 20040007874Abstract: A pipe-coupling device comprises a joint body 2 having an opening 2h with external threads 2d to receive a pipe P, a locknut 5 having internal threads 5a engaged with the external threads 2d of the joint body 2, an annular core member 6 disposed within the locknut 6, and a plurality of locking members 7 retained in apertures 6d of the core member 6 to be spaced circumferentially apart from each other. Upon tightening rotation of the locknut 5 around the joint body 2, the internal conical surface 5c of the locknut 5 slidably contacts with the conical surfaces 7a of the locking members 7 so as to press the locking members 7 radially inwardly, to cause the gripping portions 7b of the locking members 7 come into gripping engagement with the outer periphery of the inserted pipe P, thereby strongly preventing withdrawal of the pipe P from the joint body 2 even when the pipe is made of hard material.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: HAKKO METAL INDUSTRIES LTD.Inventor: Masafumi Minami
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Publication number: 20040007875Abstract: A coupler for a low pressure piping system has a hollow metal tube terminating in a pair of end portions defining open ends for slidably receiving and joining together sections of other metal tubes in a substantially air tight relationship. Slots are formed in at least one of the end portions to aid in the crimping of the hollow metal tube by an annular clamp. A radial flange is formed adjacent the end portion and receives an annular seal therein. A stop for limiting the insertion of a tube section into the end of the hollow metal tube is formed on the inside of the coupler adjacent the radial flange opposite the slots. The annular clamp encircles the slots and is tightened to clamp the end portions to form metal to metal contact between the metal tubes and to form a seal between the annular seal and both metal tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: John P. Bishop, Gregory A. Calderone, Leland J. Dick, James F. Smith
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Publication number: 20040007876Abstract: Method and apparatus for changing the rating of engine generator set by selecting a generator set rating using a rating selector included in the generator set control system. The generator set rating includes at least an engine rating and voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Andrew N. Braun, Michael A. Dvorsky, Jeffrey A. Kocovsky, Darren L. Krahn
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Publication number: 20040007877Abstract: An apparatus for power generation. The apparatus has a first substrate comprising a conductive surface region and a second substrate coupled to the first substrate. Preferably, the second substrate comprises an electret material region, which is characterized by a substantially uniform electric field associated with the electret material region. The conductive substrate and the electret substrate are aligned in a significantly parallel fashion with a common area of each region directly facing the other region (A). A distance (d) characterizing a spatial separation is formed between the conductive surface region and the electret material region. A relative voltage potential (V) between the conductive substrate and the electret substrate is associated with the distance (d). In between the conductive substrate and the electret substrate is a material, liquid, gas, or combination with an associated permittivity (&egr;0).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicants: California Institute of Technology, Office of Technology Transfer M/C 210-85, Cal TechInventors: Justin Boland, Yu-Chong Tai
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Publication number: 20040007878Abstract: A turbine power generator 20 includes a housing 22, a shaft 24, a turbine 26 to drive the shaft, a shaft-driven generator rotor 28, and generator stator 30 within the housing and surrounding the rotor. A main cooling gas blower 32 includes at least one blade 34 driven by the shaft 24 for causing a main flow of cooling gas to cool the rotor 28 and/or stator 30. A supplemental cooling gas blower 36 is connected in parallel with the main cooling gas blower 32 for causing a supplemental flow of cooling gas through the housing 22 in addition to the main flow of cooling gas to cool the rotor 28 and/or stator 30. The supplemental cooling gas blower may include an electric motor 38 and at least one blade 40 driven thereby. A controller 39 may be connected to the electric motor 38 to permit selective operation of the supplemental cooling gas blower 36.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: Siemens Westinghouse Power CorporationInventors: Robert J. Nelson, Kim M. McCreight, Bobby A. Warren, James F. Lau
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Publication number: 20040007879Abstract: Thermodynamic energy methods and systems that provides all electrical energy and heat needs of a single residential house, commercial business or office building. The system is small enough to be stored inside the house or building. The system can generate excess electrical energy which can be sold over the power grid and allow for the house owner, building owner or energy provider (utility company) to provide income or additional electrical generating capacity and the ability to sell/provide co-generated heat. The method and system can have combined energy conversion efficiency up to approximately 97%. Components can include amorphous materials, and the mono-tube steam generator boiler, which is explosion proof when punctured, and only emits a puff of steam when punctured. The tubes can be built to pressure vessel code.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Frank Ruggieri, Shimao Ni, Dave Lackstrom, Napoleon Salvail
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Publication number: 20040007880Abstract: Wave energy converters having a paddle form and facing the seas have been described in papers, previous designs having a sliding mass located low in the hull. Power is taken off by resisting the movement of the sliding mass. In this invention, the sliding mass is located high in the hull, generally above sea level, where it is more effective and so may have a substantially lower mass. In addition, instead of moving in a straight line, means may be provided for the slide to be curved in the vertical plane to improve performance. Further, the guiding means may be a pivoted arm or a linkage, rather than a slide, and the path may be variable to suit the period of the waves.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Michael Joseph French
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Publication number: 20040007881Abstract: An impulse-type “wave motor” employs a seabed-mounted or supported structure mounting a wave energy absorbing panel on a hinged lever arm for reciprocation motion to obtain optimal absorption of wave energy from wave motion in the sea. For deepwater wavelengths of L, the panel is optimally positioned in a region within L/2 depth from the sea surface. The panel motion is coupled by a connecting rod to a fluid pump which generates a high-pressure fluid output that may be used to drive a reverse osmosis desalination unit or to produce other useful work. Seawater or brackish water may be desalinated through reverse osmosis membranes to produce water quality for consumption, agricultural, or other uses. The submerged operating environment of the device in a region of one-half the design wavelength provides the maximum available energy flux and forced oscillations. The pump may be of the positive-displacement piston type, plunger type, or multi-staging driver type, or a variable volume pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Alvin Kobashikawa, Yu-Si Fok
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Publication number: 20040007882Abstract: A vehicle door latch has a forkbolt that moves between a latched position and an unlatch position and a detent that moves between a detent position where the detent holds the forkbolt in the latched position and a release position where the detent releases the forkbolt for movement to the unlatch position. The vehicle door latch includes a detent spring that biases the detent toward the detent position and a release mechanism that moves the detent against the bias of the detent spring to the release position to release the forkbolt. The vehicle door latch also includes an auxiliary detent spring that decelerates the movement of the detent to the detent position under the bias of the detent spring to reduce noise when the detent strikes the fork bolt. An auxiliary counter spring and an alternative auxiliary helper spring are shown.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Frank J. Arabia, Donald M. Perkins
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Publication number: 20040007883Abstract: An unlocking device for a supplemental door lock of the ball hook and U-shaped catch type is disclosed. The unlocking device consists of a thin elongated resilient member. The resilient member is designed to engage the perpendicular corner formed by the standard door stop and associated door jamb. The resilient member has a resilient integral compression recoil arm that exerts force on the U-shaped catch as the door is closed. Upon closing the door, the resilient member causes the U-shaped catch to release the ball hook.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: John B. Laufer
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Publication number: 20040007884Abstract: The present invention provides a connecting element for releasably connecting a first (10) and a second component (20) particularly a lever with another lever or a brake pedal with the plunger rod in a motor vehicle. The connecting element comprises a connecting means (40, 60) which is attached to or part of a second component (20) and a dome shaped sledge (50) attached to a first component (10) wherein the dome shaped sledge (50) is latched in the connecting means (40, 60) by sliding from an assembling in a fastening position. Additionally, a connecting element is provided comprising preferred a two-piece connecting means (40, 60) attached to a pedal (20) and a modulator (10), respectively, wherein a sledge frame (60) is releasable latched in a housing (40). The connecting element enables a load transmission parallel to the assembling direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: David Alonso Gras, Juan M Dona Contero
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Publication number: 20040007885Abstract: The present invention provides an improved sliding door handle assembly having a spring operated integral push button locking mechanism. Specifically, the improved sliding door handle assembly is comprised of a handle assembly including an upper handle section and a lower handle section, and a push button assembly. The upper handle section is recessed so as to incorporate the push button assembly and includes an opening for insertion of a cylindrical locking pin. The locking pin is spring-biased so as to move between a first position for locking the handle and a second position for unlocking the handle. The lower handle section is curved to facilitate gripping the door handle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Alex Michael
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Publication number: 20040007886Abstract: A bumper arrantement for a vehicle comprises a bumper beam (17) fastened in two crash boxes (11, 12). The bumper beam (17) has a U-profile with a central flange (18) and two webs (19, 20) and has its opening towards the vehicle. The central flange has a recess (21) that is shallow at the mountings to the crash boxes (11, 12) and deepens therebetween so that the bumper beam will be so stiff that it will transfer substantial force to both crash boxes also in an off-set crash. This design makes the width of the part of the bumper beam adjacent the vehicle small.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Ola Hallergren
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Publication number: 20040007887Abstract: A handle and method for use with a manually operated implement including an elongated tubular frame (A) with a holder (B) at one end for receiving a shank portion of the implement against rotation and movement in and out with respect to the holder and for achieving a two-point control by the user through a slidable support (C) opposite the holder and an intermediate upright hand grip (D), a strap (E) carried by a support (C) being provided for encompassing an arm of the user just below the elbow facilitating the application of force upwardly and downwardly as well as in and out through the implement. A second single straight length of tubing (F) has a holder for attachment to the frame and a second holder for attachment of a selected implement.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Olin L. Elliott
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Publication number: 20040007888Abstract: A suction device includes a handle and an operation lever which has a cam end pivotably connected to the handle. A suction disk has a shaft which movably extends through the underside of the handle and is pivotably connected to the cam end. A release device is connected to a side of the handle and has an insertion which extends through the handle and is removably engaged with a hole in a side of the operation lever. The release device can be easily operated by the thumb of the user to disengage the shaft from the operation lever, and the suction disk is pushed back by a spring mounted to the shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Timmy Chen
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Publication number: 20040007889Abstract: A truck bed extender that enables a user to load and unload heavy loads from a truck bed. The apparatus includes a lower frame longitudinally aligned and securely mounted inside the truck bed. Disposed inside the lower frame is a sliding intermediate frame with at least one length adjustable leg attached at its distal end that supports the distal end of the intermediate frame in an extended position. During assembly, the proximal end of the intermediate frame slides into, and extends from, the lower frame. Disposed longitudinally over the lower frame and the intermediate frame is a moveable upper frame with a support panel attached thereto. When the intermediate frame is fully extended from the truck bed, the upper frame may move longitudinally rearward from the truck bed and onto the intermediate frame so that cargo may be loaded or unloaded onto the support panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Gerald Hebert
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Publication number: 20040007890Abstract: The slide-out mechanisms described herein are generally composed of two components. More specifically, the slide-out mechanism includes at least one elongated member, also referred to as a ram, which is coupled to the floor of a movable room. This elongated member moves with the extendable portion of a movable room. Additionally, the slide-out mechanism includes a base that is coupled to the coach floor and contains a motive device for extending and retracting the movable room accessible from the inside of the slide-out room. According to various embodiments disclosed herein, the motive device may be a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical motor. Alternatively, the motive force may be a crank that may be manually actuated to extend and retract the slideout room.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: RBW Industries, Inc.Inventor: Raymond Willis Blodgett
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Publication number: 20040007891Abstract: This invention provides a configuration of a joint that allows a satisfactory welded joint to be formed with reduced deformation of the joint region when two-face structures (panels) are friction-welded end to end. The panels 31, 32 each have two substantially parallel plates 33, 34 and a third member 35 connecting the two plates 33, 34. The end portions of the plates 33, 34 of one panel 32 are friction-welded to the end portions of the plates 33, 34 of the other panel 32. At least one of the panels has a plate 36 at its end for connecting the plates 33 and 34 and has a rigidity to support a pressing force produced during the friction welding.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Kinya Aota, Tsuyoshi Takenaka, Yasuo Ishimaru
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Publication number: 20040007892Abstract: An interior part of a vehicle comprises an outer wall constituted by a resin and/or a material containing the resin, and a thermal conductive member joined to the outer wall. The thermal conductive member is partially joined to a vehicle body panel and/or a metal part engaged with the vehicle body panel, so that temperature increase in a vehicle cabin is controlled effectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiroaki Harata, Hiroaki Miura
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Publication number: 20040007893Abstract: A lock plate and a movable plate are provided to fix a seat at an optional position, and an actuator is provided between the seat and the movable plate. The seat is moved to the rear of a vehicle body in an initial stage of impact by the actuator. Acceleration is generated in the seat through impact abutment of a collapsible tube in the actuator against a piston head in an intermediate stage of impact. In a final stage of the impact, the seat is made integral with the vehicle body. The deceleration of a vehicle body and a seat and the deceleration of an occupant can be made equal to each other at an earlier timing. The apparatus can be installed by making use of a space under the seat, whereby the necessity of securing a special vacant space for installation of the apparatus can be obviated.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yasuki Motozawa, Takahiro Kamei, Yasushi Kawamura
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Publication number: 20040007894Abstract: A golf cart shading system shading of the occupants of a golf cart without limiting access to the rear golf cart storage area from the rear of the golf cart. Additionally, it provides a golf cart shade that is fitted to the golf cart, portable, easily installed and removed, and attachable to a wide range of golf cart designs. Even further, the shade has optional viewing windows with shade screening.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: David Ray Hamm
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Publication number: 20040007895Abstract: The invention relates to a wiper system (10) for a glass pane of a motor vehicle, comprising a fixing device which itself comprises at least three fixing mechanisms (36) which are set apart from each other and corresponding receiving devices (42) in which the fixing mechanisms (36) can engage. The wiper system (10) also comprises a contact device comprising at least one essentially rigid part (52) that is connected to the system and a complementary vehicle-side part (62). The contact device provides the connection between a driving device (22) of the wiper system (10) and a vehicle-side supply device. The invention provides that in order to facilitate the mounting of the wiper system (10), the vehicle-side part (62) of the contact device is essentially rigidly connected to the vehicle and the two parts (52, 62) of the contact device are aligned in such a way that the contact is established automatically when the wiper system (10) is fixed to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Bruno Egner-Walter
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Publication number: 20040007896Abstract: A motor vehicle roof which can be lowered into a rear receiving space, with a rear roof part (8) which is pivotally supported on the body and a front roof part (6) which is pivotally supported thereon. The rear roof part (8) has a lengthwise dimension which is equal essentially to twice the lengthwise dimension of the rear window (22). The rear window can be moved out of a position which closes a rear window cutout to under the closed front section of the rear roof part.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: Webasto Vehicle Systems International GmbHInventor: Peter Reihl
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Publication number: 20040007897Abstract: In a hardtop vehicle roof which is movable between a closed position, in which it covers a vehicle interior, and a storage position and which includes rigid roof shells which, in the closed position, are disposed end to end adjacent one another, at least one of the roof shells includes a center section and side sections which are pivotally connected to the center section and the center sections are displaced in the storage position of the roof shells upwardly relative to the respective side sections so as to be received within one of the roof shells thereby to reduce the volume required for the storage of the roof shells in the storage position thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Andreas Hasselgruber, Wojciech Wezyk, Emil Schnell, Klaus Laue
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Publication number: 20040007898Abstract: A piece of motor vehicle bodywork (4, 5, 11) having an outside face directed towards the outside of the vehicle and an inside face opposite the outside face, the piece of bodywork being constituted in that it is constituted by a skin made of a material that allows light to pass, the inside face of the skin being covered at least in part by an opaque coating.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: COMPAGNIE PLASTIC OMNIUMInventors: Maelig Pommeret, Charlotte Thevenet, Arnold Fayt, Thibault Lacroix
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Publication number: 20040007899Abstract: In a motor vehicle, a strut is arranged between the cowl cross member and the center console cross member. The strut is supported in the cowl cross member on a junction element by way of a holder. The junction element includes a profile element and a structural foam part arranged above the latter, which structural foam part swells as a result of a heat treatment, and a precisely fitting filling-out of the interior of the cowl cross member is achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellshaftInventors: Michael Tilsner, Michael Wagner
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Publication number: 20040007900Abstract: A molded truck shell having side walls hinged along the top of the shell, allowing the entire side wall to pivot upwardly and outwardly, providing increased access to cargo stored in a truck bed. Additional lateral seams between the side wall and shell are located on the front and rear of the shell rather than on the side of the shell thereby further increasing the opening into the truck bed and creating a visually clean appearance. Water penetrating through the side wall hinge line is directed away from the interior of the truck bed by a moisture flange that conducts the water to the exterior of the truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: David C. Block
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Publication number: 20040007901Abstract: In order to provide a fender arrangement, which may be simple to manufacture and mount, and which extends at least partially over the vehicle body, having a fender, which has an upper edge, and a reinforcement element, including multiple sections, which is positioned along the upper edge on the inside of the fender, the sections of the reinforcement element forming a hollow profile with the fender, the reinforcement element is connected to the vehicle body via at least one connection section forming a hollow profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Eberhard Weik, Thorsten Schelling
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Publication number: 20040007902Abstract: An open roof construction for a vehicle comprises a stationary part for attachment to the roof. It has at least one stationary guide rail on a side of the roof opening. A closure element is supported by an operating mechanism and is adjustable between a closed position, in which it closes the roof opening, and an open position. The operating mechanism comprises a driving slide and a link plate attached to the closure element and having a first guide track with which a guide member is in engagement. A curve part on the stationary part includes a second guide track having a vertical component. The guide member is also in engagement with said second guide track, wherein the driving slide is adapted to drive the guide member at least along part of the path of movement of the closure element.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.Inventors: Peter Christiaan Leonardus Johannes Manders, Chris de Jong
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Publication number: 20040007903Abstract: A foldable chair includes a leg assembly and a reclining back connected together by a pair of joint assemblies. Each joint assembly includes a through hole for receiving a support member of the reclining back, and a through channel for accommodating a control device that adjusts the reclining angle. The control device comprises a spring member and an adjustment block to be engaged and disengaged with a saw-tooth member formed on the lower end of the support member. A control button is connected to a handle of the adjustment block. The reclining angle can be adjusted when the control button is pulled to disengage the adjustment block with the saw-tooth member. The control button may also be coupled with the handle using a coupling device. By having the coupling device, the control button can be pushed to disengage the adjustment block with the saw-tooth member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventor: Tony Wei-Sin Chang