Patents Issued in February 14, 2006
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Patent number: 6997466Abstract: A mobile base includes a main body having a first side formed with two first foot portions and a second side formed with two second foot portions, two fixing rollers each mounted on a respective first foot portion, an adjusting plate mounted between the second foot portions, an adjusting roller mounted on the adjusting plate to move therewith, and an adjusting unit mounted between the second foot portions and urged on the adjusting plate to press the adjusting plate to move. Thus, the adjusting unit is hidden in a space between the first side rack and the second side rack, so that the adjusting unit is not operated unintentionally.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Wang Tien Wang
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Patent number: 6997467Abstract: A vehicle includes front and rear suspension systems. The vehicle includes front left and right strut assemblies respectively including front left and right knuckles. Rear left and right strut assemblies respectively include rear left and right knuckles. The knuckles are common with one another with each knuckle having a common lower attachment boss. The front left and right knuckles respectively receive front left and right connection members at the lower attachment boss. The lower attachment boss is respectively interconnected to the front left and right suspension components. The rear left and right knuckles respectively receive rear left and right connection members at the lower attachment boss respectively interconnected to rear left and right suspension components. The overall suspension for the vehicle is designed by determining the left knuckle position parameters such as suspension member, brake, and wheel assembly attachment points. Similarly, the right knuckle position parameters are determined.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Arvin Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Simon Dean
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Patent number: 6997468Abstract: A control rod suspension has at least one dampening structure having an outboard end and an inboard end. The inboard end is pivotally mounted to the vehicle frame. The outboard end is pivotally mounted to a king pin. A king pin rotatably connects the knuckle with a steer axle beam.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Dana CorporationInventors: James F. Ziech, Paul Pollock
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Patent number: 6997469Abstract: A molded running board provided with a support portion and a top portion is described herein. The support portion is made of plastic material and provided with reinforcing ribs and the top portion is made of a plastic material that is advantageously compatible with the plastic material forming the support portion. A method for the assembly of such a molded running board is also described herein. This method includes the welding of a top portion to a support portion via the use of a thin strand of plastic material compatible with material used in the top portion and the support portion and metallic particles in an electromagnetic press, for example.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Decoma International, Inc.Inventors: Michel Lanoue, Normand Mercier, Philippe Bégin
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Patent number: 6997470Abstract: A pedaling apparatus (10) including a frame assembly having a front and a rear sections with a hollow seat tube (12), and a seat post (18) supported by said seat tube (12). The seat post (18) has attachment means for attaching a seat (16). The seat post (18) and the seat tube (12) are supporting the seat (16) at an adjustable position relative to the rear section. The seat tube (12) has a substantially curved part to accommodate therein a compatible curved part of the seat post (18). The curved parts of the seat tube (12) and the seat post (18) are configured for telescopic adjustment of the position of the attached seat (16) along a curved trajectory path extending upwardly and rearwardly relative to said rear section to suit users of different heights and physiques. The apparatus (10) may have a pair of pedals (26) arranged so that the user is sitting in a substantially upright pedaling position on the seat and is far enough behind the pedals (26) to give the legs an uncramped and efficient pedaling action.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Peter David Clutton
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Patent number: 6997471Abstract: A multi-hitch apparatus and method includes a movable hitch attachment. More than one hitch is connected to the movable hitch attachment wherein the movable hitch attachment is movable between a first position and a second position. According to one aspect of the invention, the more than one hitch includes more than one ball hitch. According to a further aspect, the more than one hitch includes two ball hitches.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: John D. Daniel
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Patent number: 6997472Abstract: A trailer towing device can be swivelled from an operative position into an inoperative position and back. During an adjusting from the operative position into the inoperative position, a socket for an electrical plug device of a trailer is continuously taken along. The coupling neck of the trailer towing device as well as the socket are covered in the vehicle in their inoperative position.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Peter Reutlinger, Eberhard Palmer, Andreas Piede
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Patent number: 6997473Abstract: A side air bag device includes an inflator arranged in a backrest of a seat for discharge gas, an air bag having an upper chamber and a lower chamber which are each inflated by discharging gas, and an impact reducing means reducing means ror reducing impact that is applied to a passenger when the air bag contacts the passenger during inflation of the air bag.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshinori Tanase, Yoshio Mizuno, Toru Koyama
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Patent number: 6997474Abstract: An automotive passenger restraint and protection apparatus includes an electric retractor having a motor for retracting and protracting a seatbealt. The apparatus also includes an airbag driving device, a pretensioner, a speed detecting device, and a controller. The controller controls at least one of the actuation time or expansion pressure of an airbag by the airbag driving device, actuation time of the pretensioner, a force of the pretensioner for retracting the seatbelt, and a force of the seatbelt driving device for retracting the seatbelt, based upon the speed of protraction of the seatbelt. The controller controls the airbag driving device to shorten the actuation time of the airbag when the speed of protraction of the seatbelt is greater than a predetermined value, and prolongs the actuation time of the airbag when the detected speed of protraction of the seatbelt is lower than the predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: NSK Autoliv Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yukinori Midorikawa, Osamu Kawai
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Patent number: 6997475Abstract: A gas generator for an air bag capable of easily and unfailingly closing a gas discharging port formed in a housing. An amount of accommodated gas generating agent can be varied and the gas generating agent can be ignited and burnt unfailingly even by ignition devices having normal output. The gas generator has sealing structures as small as possible and a simple structure, and can be manufactured easily. Activation performance and activation timing can be adjusted at multiple stages. For instance, the air bag housing may be provided at its peripheral wall with a plurality of gas discharging ports, an ignition device to be actuated upon impact, and a gas generating agent to be ignited and burnt by the ignition device, wherein the gas discharging ports are arranged in the axial direction of the housing to form a gas discharging port line. Other configurations are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Takefumi Watase, Mikio Yabuta
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Patent number: 6997476Abstract: A gas bag module for a vehicle occupant restraint device comprises a gas generator and a gas bag having a wall. The module further includes a diffusor which surrounds the gas generator and has a cup-shaped section. The cup-shaped section has a filter section consisting of at least one fiber, through which filter section gas flows out from the gas generator.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: TRW Automotive Safety Systems GmbHInventor: Jens Kayser
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Patent number: 6997477Abstract: A dual stage inflator 10 utilizes a housing 12 having two laterally oriented propellant chambers 20 and 22. A perforated divider 18 provides lateral separation between chambers 20 and 22, and facilitates fluid communication between chambers 20 and 22 when both chambers are operated. Upon inflator 10 operation, the first chamber 20 is activated operatively independent of the second chamber 22, and if desired, the second chamber 22 may be activated simultaneously or sequentially with chamber 20. A perforated divider 18 provides lateral separation between chambers 20 and 22, and facilitates fluid communication between chambers 20 and 22 when both chambers are activated. The aforementioned design provides simplified manufacturing with equivalent or enhanced structural integrity relative to known inflators.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.Inventor: Eduardo L. Quioc
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Patent number: 6997478Abstract: A tension sensing assembly for a seat restraint system in a vehicle includes a rigid frame of a seat restraint buckle of the seat restraint system. The tension sensing assembly also includes a movable member operatively supported by the rigid frame and adapted to be connected to vehicle structure. The movable member is movable relative to the rigid frame. The tension sensing assembly includes a strain member operatively supported by the moveable member and the rigid frame. The tension sensing assembly further includes a strain gage sensor operatively supported by the strain member to indicate a tension level in the seat restraint system when the strain member is displaced by the movable member.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David G. Hlavaty, James L. Webber, Michael T. Moury, George R. Kohut
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Patent number: 6997479Abstract: A vehicle safety restraint adjuster has a vehicle safety restraint support and a guide for the support. The support is moveable along the guide. The adjuster further has a lock which secures the safety restraint support at a position on the guide in the locked state and allows the support to move in the unlocked state. A magnetic actuator selectively places the lock in the locked state and the unlocked state.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Key Safety Systems, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Desmarais, David R. Arnold, Richard Boelstler
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Patent number: 6997480Abstract: A cord lock device for releasably securing a hinged object in a closed position includes a first cord loop projecting from a first side of a hinged object and a second cord loop projecting from a second side of a hinged object, the first and second cord loops projecting generally towards one another. The second cord loop includes an engagement loop section temporarily formed therein, the engagement loop section being extended through the first side of a hinged object adjacent one end of the first cord loop. The engagement loop section engages one end of the first cord loop, the one end of the first cord loop passing through the engagement loop section such that the first cord loop is intertwined with the second cord loop and thus the first and second cord loops cooperate to generally prevent access to the interior of a hinged object on which the first and second cord loops are mounted.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Christian Noël Guy Legrand
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Patent number: 6997481Abstract: A checkbook cover has an exterior cover, an interior check and register holder affixed adjacent to the cover, and a slot formed through the exterior cover. A writing instrument, preferably with a pocket clip thereon, passes partially through the exterior cover slot to a chamber between exterior cover and interior check and register holder. The pocket clip encompasses at least a part of the exterior cover. The checkbook cover is formed using standard sheet processing techniques, but includes the additional step of severing at a selected strategic internal location to form the slot. Additional force distributors, preferably in the form of circular cut-outs, may be formed at the terminations of the slot. Heat stamped reinforcements are provided in the preferred embodiment about the slot and force distributors, to further strengthen the cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Paul Hardwig
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Patent number: 6997482Abstract: The control element has a first drawing printed on a first side of the article, comprising at least a first set of geometrical shapes. It includes a second drawing printed on a second side of said article, the second drawing being printed so as to face the first drawing and be in register with the latter, said second drawing comprising at least a second set of geometrical shapes corresponding to the first screen. At least one of said geometrical sets includes sectors which are offset so that, when the front side/reverse side register is correct, the control element has regions of variable density which are visible in transmitted light and are created by said offset sectors.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: KBA-Giori S.A.Inventor: Laurent Mathys
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Patent number: 6997483Abstract: A containment device provides containment for a pipe and includes a containment body having a first end section and a second end section. The containment body has an open interior that defines a channel configured to receive the pipe therein. First and second closures are configured to close an entrance of the first end section and an exit of the second end section, respectively, about the pipe. The containment body may be configured to receive therein a pipe leading from a cement pump truck. The first end section is suitably configured to receive therein a cement pump outlet pipe. The second end section is suitably configured to receive therein a cement delivery tube. A middle section interposed between the first end section and the second end section is suitably configured to receive therein a transition section of pipe between the cement pump outlet pipe and the cement delivery tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Seattle Tarp CompanyInventor: Deano Perlatti
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Patent number: 6997484Abstract: A pump discharge conduit system for allowing discharge from a pump to be discharged out of the structure. The pump discharge conduit system includes an output conduit being designed for extending through the wall of the structure. The output conduit comprises an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end of the output conduit is designed for being positioned in an interior of the structure whereby the inlet end is in fluid communication with the pump. The outlet end of the output conduit is positioned outside of the structure whereby the output conduit is for directing discharge from the pump to the outside of the structure through the outlet aperture.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Jeremy Hauk
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Patent number: 6997485Abstract: A connecting assembly for connecting to a fluid conduit in a fluid transfer system includes a ferrule-type connector having a first open end and a second open end. The first open end of the connector is operable to receive a fluid conduit therein. The second open end of the connector is operable to receive a washer and a flexible hose therein. The washer preferably has a concave cross-section and a central aperture receiving the fluid conduit to secure the connector to the fluid conduit when the washer is press-fit in the second open end of the connector and onto the fluid conduit.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Achille Souvatzidis
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Patent number: 6997486Abstract: A low permeability coupling device for coupling a first endpiece (3) extending a tube (2) with a second endpiece (10) carried by the wall (1) of a member to which the tube (2) is connected, in which the second endpiece (10) has two substantially coaxial walls (11, 12) defining between them a blind annular housing (13) for receiving the first endpiece (3), and a sealing element (15) extending between the inside face (11a) of the outer wall (11) of the second endpiece and the outside surface (8) of the first endpiece when it is in place in the above-mentioned housing (13).Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2000Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Nobel PlastiquesInventor: Pierre Milhas
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Patent number: 6997487Abstract: A locking arrangement is for a receptacle and cover with overlapping parts and aligned holes through the overlapping part. A bolt extends into at least one of the holes with a handle at one end of the bolt for pulling the bolt out of the aligned holes in a withdrawing direction. An expansion mechanism at an opposite end of the bolt expands to prevent withdrawing the bolt. The mechanism has a contracted geometry for allowing withdrawing of the bolt. An actuator mounted for movement to the bolt is pushed to contract and unlock the mechanism. A spring biases the expansion mechanism toward the expanded geometry so that when the actuator is not being pushed, the expansion mechanism is in the expanded geometry to lock the cover to the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Roger S. Kitzis
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Patent number: 6997488Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary-latch lock (1) having a rotary latch (6) which is retained in a locked position by a catch (9), and having an actuating member (19) which can be displaced by an electric motor from a starting position into an actuating position and is intended for pivoting the catch (9) into a release position, in which the rotary latch (6) can pivot into an open position. In order to optimize the functioning of the rotary-latch lock, the invention proposes to provide a release member (24) which by means of the rotary latch (6), as the latter rotates into the open position, releases the actuating member (19) for the catch (9) for return displacement into the starting position.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Witte-Velbert GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Ralf Kürten, Edvard Rückert
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Patent number: 6997489Abstract: A one-piece pull-tight or strap-type security seal adapted for closing bags or the like that is designer to be easily applied in comparison with existing ones. One seal of this type has a lever operation in which a clousure strap (4) is integral with a central or operating portion (2) that is, in turn, integral with a lever member (6) to which the strap may be fixed during application around the neck of a bag to be closed. The lever member is then pivoted outwardly and backwardly over the opening portion, tightening the loop so formed by means of a lever action, and then locked by security locking formations (16, 19) to effect sealing. The closure strap is for all effects flat, its formations for fixing it to the lever member (6) including a series of orifices (7) distributed along its length, whereas the immobilizing formation for the closure strap includes a first protuberance (15) adapted, on formation of the loop (25), to be received in one of the orifices (7).Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Starlock Industria E Comercio LTDAInventor: Andre De Lima Castro
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Patent number: 6997490Abstract: An integrated one-piece polymeric molded component includes an energy-absorbing section, a fascia-supporting beam section, and a plurality of connecting section connecting the energy-absorbing and fascia-supporting beam sections. The energy-absorbing section engages a front of a bumper beam and includes crush boxes configured to absorb impact energy during a vehicle crash. The connecting sections are strong enough to hold the energy-absorbing section and the fascia-supporting beam section together during assembly of the one-piece component onto a vehicle, but are flexible to allow collapse of the energy-absorbing section during a vehicle crash without damaging the fascia-supporting beam section. The beam section is channel-shaped and extends cross-car generally between headlamps of the vehicle, for providing added support structure to a front-end of the vehicle. The beam section includes air-redirecting ridges for optimal air flow and integral clips for wire management.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: NetShape International LLCInventors: Darin Evans, Anthony Jackson
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Patent number: 6997491Abstract: A bottom plate mounting hole is formed in one end side of a bottom plate portion of the fender panel with this bottom plate portion forming a line of partition between the fender panel and the bumper. A side plate mounting hole is also formed in the fender panel facing an inward surface in the vehicle transverse direction of the bumper. An upward protruding portion that is rotatably fittable in the bottom plate mounting hole is formed on one end side of the bumper spacer. A sideways protruding portion is also formed on the bumper spacer that, in a state in which the upward protruding portion has been fitted in the bottom plate mounting hole, is fittable into the side plate mounting hole as a result of the bumper spacer being rotated around the upward protruding portion. The bumper mounting structure enables a bumper spacer to be mounted accurately and easily on a fender panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Makoto Takahashi
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Patent number: 6997492Abstract: A low cost manual container lifting and placement unit operable by two people is disclosed which allows clamping, lifting and release of containers in a simple manner. The unit is made in two clamp jaw halves and each is connected to a rod that extends out to form handles on each side. The halves are connected by linking plates which allow rotation between the two halves causing the clamp halves to converge to grip a container of interest and diverge to release the container.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventors: Marlon D. Harris, Daniel Talbert, Jr.
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Patent number: 6997493Abstract: Lockable overshot (10) includes an elongated body (12), lifting dogs (14a, 14b) and a locking sleeve (16). Ends (18) of the lifting dogs (14) are configured for latching a conventional spearhead point therebetween. The locking sleeve (16) is retained on the body (12) and is provided at one axial end with a circumferential wall (66) and two diametrically opposed gaps (68). The locking sleeve (16) is rotatable on the body (12) between a locked state preventing ends (18) of the lifting dogs from pivoting away from each other to release a previously latched spearhead point, and an unlocked state where the locking sleeve (16) allows the lifting dogs (14) to move so that the ends (18) can be pivoted away from each other to release a previously latched spearhead point. In this regard, the locking sleeve (16) is provided at one axial end with a circumferential wall (66) provided with a pair of diametrically opposed gaps (68).Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Boart Longyear Pty LtdInventor: Andrew Beach
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Patent number: 6997494Abstract: An arm rest, in particular for a vehicle seat (2), is provided with a viewing screen (12) which can be swung up from a non-functional position into a functional position, the arm rest (1) having a rotatable first arm support (6) at whose free end the viewing screen is arranged pivotably. In this case, a second arm support (13) is provided, which arm support can be rotated in relation to the first arm support (6) and, in the non-functional position of the viewing screen (12), can be concealed by the first arm support.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Johnson Controls GmbHInventor: Michael Neumann
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Patent number: 6997495Abstract: A trailer, such as a conventional full trailer or semi trailer used for hauling freight, is convertible into an assembly hall by folding its sidewalls upwardly to define ceiling extensions extending from the trailer roof. Additional floor extensions which are pivotally affixed to the sides of the trailer floor may then be folded downwardly in substantially parallel relation to the trailer floor to define an assembly hall floor. The floor extensions fold in nested relation between the folding trailer sidewalls/ceiling extensions such that the entire arrangement fits within the same space envelope as the conventional trailer. Once unfolded, the trailer may be used as a shelter/assembly hall for meetings and other events, and may be provided with interior seating, safety railings, and other enhancements.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Marlo Groezinger
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Patent number: 6997496Abstract: A releasable connection is provided between two adjoining components, particularly body shell parts of a vehicle body. A releasable connection ensuring an exact positioning of the two parts as well as a fast and simple mounting is provided. The releasable connection includes at least one base plate which is held in position on a first body shell component and has at least one projecting pin. A receiving device is fastened to an opposite second body shell component and has a rotatable slotted sleeve part. An end-side profiled head section of the at least one pin is guidable through openings of the second component, of the receiving device and of the sleeve part. As a result of radial rotation of the sleeve part about an angle ?, a fastening of the first and second body shell components with respect to one another takes place.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventor: Dimitar Danev
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Patent number: 6997497Abstract: A cargo system includes a plurality of rigidly connected compartments adapted to mount on the roof of a vehicle. The plurality of compartments includes a first compartment suitable for mounting a retractable awning and a second compartment suitable for storing cargo. The first and second compartments each include a flooring and a sidewall wherein the first compartment is rigidly connected to the second compartment by at least one of the flooring and the sidewall. One of the plurality of compartments includes a liquid container, at least a portion of the container being suspended in the compartment. The liquid container includes a tube suitable for passing liquid that emerges from the cargo system. In addition, a light assembly is operatively associated with the cargo system. The light assembly includes an electrical conductor suitable for providing power to the light assembly, the conductor emerging from the cargo system.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Pik 4 Trip Ltd.Inventors: Yaron Sagi, Israel Bloch
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Patent number: 6997498Abstract: A seat device for a vehicle of the present invention includes a rail, a seat, a front leg, and a rear leg. The seat is made movable between a first position in which a seat cushion is supported on a lower floor via the front leg and the rear leg, and a second position in which the rear leg is disengaged from the lower floor and pivoted toward the seat cushion, a front portion of the seat cushion is supported on the lower floor via the front leg, and a rear portion of the seat cushion is supported on an upper floor.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Rikiya Oyama
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Patent number: 6997499Abstract: A feeder assembly 1 of a sliding seat comprising a case 2 having a harness receiving section 6, a movable portion 3 moving along the case, and a wiring harness 4, bent in the harness receiving section, supported one end by the movable portion and other end by the case, wherein a slit 10 is formed in the case 2 for the insertion of the movable portion 3, a foreign substance invasion space 53 is formed between the case 2 and a case bottom 11, and the space is isolated from the harness receiving section by partition walls 14 and 15. A foreign substance discharge hole 12 is disposed at the case bottom 11. The movable portion comprises a harness pathway 21 to make each electric wire 4a of the wiring harness 4 arrange flatly in parallel, and a harness holder 22 which bundles each electric wire in circular cross-section following the harness pathway. A clearance is disposed between the movable portion and the case so that the movable portion 3 positions with non-contact or almost non-contact of the case 3.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Akira Tsubaki, Hiroyuki Wakamatsu, Hirofumi Wada, Tadashi Muraoka
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Patent number: 6997500Abstract: A multifunctional third row seating assembly that is capable of moving between two seating positions, as well as moving between split passenger seating configurations and between seating and storage positions. In the storage position, the third row seating assembly forms a true flat floor in combination with a second row seating assembly. The third row seating assembly includes a seat cushion and a seat squab coupled to it and mounted to the vehicle such that the third row seating assembly can be pivoted in an elliptical movement between a forward and a rearward seating position. The third row seat cushion is also latched such that it can be released and flipped over from a front longitudinal axis to fit into a foot rest area of the vehicle. The third row squab can then be folded down to form a flat floor. The third row squab is also constructed in two sections, so that it is capable of forming a bench seat or a split seat.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Peter Steele Horsford, Andrew Brian French, Robert Bostock
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Patent number: 6997501Abstract: A sun shade includes a shade material configured to inhibit light from passing through the material, the material having a trapezoidal shape when in an open state and being configured to expand from the open state to an expanded state, and an attaching mechanism configured to repeatably and releasably attach the shade to a window.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.Inventor: Carl J. Conforti
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Patent number: 6997502Abstract: A rigid convertible hard cap for open bed vehicles (18) made of rigid material and of the type having an arched shape of individual sections (24, 26 and 28) with fixed or movable sides and top or roof that communicate at the base and top with tracks (32 and 34) to guide and facilitate movement of cap sections (24, 26 and 28). Cap sections (24, 26 and 28) contract and extend integrally in an successive overlapping manner to obtain the desired effect of the complete or partial open and enclosed truck bed (18) without having to partially or completely obstruct truck bed space.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Mark William Reents
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Patent number: 6997503Abstract: An automobile cover can easily cover an automobile and an automobile body covering device can store the body cover into a trunk without injuring or remodeling an automobile body. To achieve such a goal, fold line portions for guiding folding are formed on a cover body such that the fold line portions extend in the longitudinal direction of the cover body, the cover body is configured to be foldable along the fold line portions, and a plurality of core members are arranged between the fold line portions and left and right longitudinal-side edges of the cover body in a spaced-apart manner in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: La Parole Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshiharu Fukagawa
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Patent number: 6997504Abstract: A dual pivot door hinge assembly for a side door system of a vehicle includes a body side-mounting bracket adapted to be connected to a vehicle body of the vehicle. The dual pivot door hinge assembly also includes a door side-mounting bracket adapted to be connected to a side door of the side door system of the vehicle. The dual pivot door hinge assembly includes at least one load arm pivotally connected to the body side-mounting bracket to form a first pivot axis and pivotally connected to the door side-mounting bracket to form a second pivot axis. The dual pivot door hinge assembly further includes a connecting member operatively interconnecting the first pivot axis and second pivot axis to allow the side door to remain parallel to a side of the vehicle body as the side door is pivoted radially outward and longitudinally.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Steven Craig Lang, Franklin Darrel Landmesser
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Patent number: 6997505Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular door trim panel assembly having an integrated seal for use in an automotive interior including a molded substrate having a first side defining an A-side surface visible from the interior of vehicle and a second side opposite the first side defining a B-side surface. The substrate includes a pair of side terminal edges and a lower terminal edge extending therebetween. The modular door trim panel assembly further includes at least one seal co-molded while the substrate is formed and bonded to the B-side of the substrate. The seal extends substantially parallel to the pair of side terminal edges and the lower terminal edge of the substrate and prevents the entry of moisture between the B-side of the substrate and the vehicle door. The present invention also relates to a method of molding the modular door trim panel assembly having an integrated seal.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Alan Dry, Sal Deangelo
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Patent number: 6997506Abstract: Vehicle payload in a service vehicle including a vehicle chassis having two spaced frame members (50) with a generally horizontal deck (16) mounted on the frame members for receiving and carrying a load to be transported and which extends to either side of a vehicle centerline (48) and which is provided with a crane (28) located to one side of the centerline is achieved in a lightweight, torsionally resistant deck structure including a horizontal plate (44) together with at least two spaced, elongated box beams (46) supporting the plate (44) which extend longitudinally of the center line (48) together with a plurality of cross members (64) secured to and extending between the box beams (46).Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc.Inventor: Paul C. Hecker
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Patent number: 6997507Abstract: A rucksack having a folding chair. The rucksack includes a back wall, a bag body of a large volume, a plurality of pockets respectively provided at predetermined portions of the bag body and having small volumes, and a pair of shoulder straps. The rucksack further includes a VELCRO releasable fastener having a pile piece and a hook piece constituting a fixed part which is provided at an upper portion of the back wall to have a predetermined area, while also constituting a movable part which is detachably fastened to the fixed part. The folding chair has the movable part of the VELCRO releasable fastener at a predetermined portion thereof, and is longer than the back wall. A cover covers the folding chair while exposing a predetermined portion of the folding chair to an outside, with a slide fastener being provided along each of both side edges of the back wall and an associated side edge of the cover to fasten the cover to the back wall.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Jason Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yong Su Rhee
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Patent number: 6997508Abstract: An armrest adapted to be pivotally mounted between a pair of rear vehicle seats includes an elongated base having a first end adapted to be pivotally mounted on a suitable armrest support structure located between the seats, for movement between a deployed position between the seats or in a stowed position defining a further backrest between the seats. A lid covering at least a portion of the base's upper surface is pivotally mounted on the base proximate to its second end, for movement between a closed position and an open position revealing both the upper surface of the base and a video display screen on the underside of the lid. The video display screen, which is preferably itself pivotally supported by the lid, is preferably driven by a video source housed within the base and accessible via the upper surface of the base, as controlled by a rear seat passenger.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: John P. Jaaska, Sr.
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Patent number: 6997509Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.Inventor: James M. Kain
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Patent number: 6997510Abstract: A rocking chair comprising a base, a seat assembly including a seat rockably mounted to the base and a backrest mounted to the seat so as to be movable between first and second positions includes a couple of biasing members mounted to the backrest for biasing the backrest towards the first position, and a locking mechanism mounted to both the base and the seat assembly for locking the seat relatively to the base when the backrest is in the first position. The locking mechanism is operated by applying at least a threshold force onto the backrest, which causes the backrest to move between the first and second positions relatively to the seat, unlocking the backrest relatively to the base, and allowing the seat to move relatively to the base. The locking mechanism includes a toothed rack and an arm lever that operatively cooperate in response to a small force exerted on the backrest. The rocking chair is safe for people having hand or forearm disability problem and for people with reduced mobility.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: NorteckInventors: Roger Guillot, Claudel Chouinard, Francis Chouinard
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Patent number: 6997511Abstract: A seating device comprising a connecting element having an end portion dimensioned to be releasably and rotatably inserted into an aperture defined in a ground or floor. The aperture is dimensioned to receive the connecting element so as to support the seating device. The seating device also comprises a supporting element connected to a seat. The supporting element is pivotably connected to the connecting element. Moreover, at least one of the connecting element and supporting element comprises at least one stop so as to permit the supporting element to pivot between a first position whereat the supporting element is in a substantially vertical position, and a second position whereat the supporting element is forwardly inclined of 30 degrees or less with respect to the first position. Such a device is particularly useful for persons who need to stabilize their posture while performing a task.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Transfert Plus, s.e.c.Inventors: Denis Marchand, Lyne Noiseux
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Patent number: 6997512Abstract: A 360 degree swivel cushion for bathroom encompassing a rotating device having a base plate, a ball bearing plate and a rotating plate disposedly configured between a lower fixed pad and an upper rotating pad. A plurality of stainless steel ball bearings atop the ball bearing plate are used to rotate within a large circular track and a small circular track of the rotating plate. Upon a mobility handicapped person sitting atop the cushion, the body can be rotated by merely swaying the body left and right, which thereby conveniences a family member or a house keeper to assist bathing and cleaning the body of the mobility handicapped person. Waterproof antiskid pads covering the rotating pad and the fixed pad not only provide for comfortable sitting and prevent slipping; moreover, both upper and lower surfaces are available for use.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Ming-Ming Yu
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Patent number: 6997513Abstract: Disclosed is a supportive chair for sitting comfortably at low heights above and relative to the ground. Preferably, the chair comprises a primary seating surface and a secondary seating surface curving around the rear of the primary seating surface to provide additional support for the user. It is preferred that the secondary seating surface be inwardly and downwardly sloped and provide a low lateral boundary for the user, thereby promoting proper alignment of the buttocks on the primary seating surface. Thus, the chair raises the buttocks and hips of the user off of the seating level, creating a relative height difference between the hips and legs. This raising of the hips relative to the legs creates a sitting posture that promotes vertical back alignment. As a result, the user is able to comfortably maintain this position with a reduced amount of back muscle strain, allowing prolonged comfortable seating periods.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Salubrion LLCInventors: Leighton Makoto Ige, Charles Yoshio Saiki
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Patent number: 6997514Abstract: The invention herein disclosed is furniture comprised of a closed-cell foam known as ethylene vinyl acetate, herein known as E.V.A. This new use of E.V.A. material provides structural integrity when various shapes are laminated together. The designs are based upon modular units that provide efficiency in fabrication as well as versatility in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventors: Lawrence J. Tarantino, Sharon A. Tarantino
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Patent number: 6997515Abstract: An improved seating system that includes a seat back assembly (10) that is fabricated to include a seat back (12) with first and second wall portions (14,16), and which may include an integrated reinforcement structure (18). The seating system is capable of either or both of withstanding without rupture at least about 11000 Newtons in the direction in which the seat back (12) faces in a plane, parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle or, upon rapid acceleration up to at least about 20 g, substantially no fragmentation of the seat back with at least a 30 kg mass placed behind the seat back.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Dow Global Technologies Inc.Inventors: Vikas Gupta, Jane M. Palmieri, Mick F. Heckert, Gregory J. Korchnak, Eric R. Kurtycz, Gregory P. Reny