Patents Issued in February 20, 2007
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Patent number: 7178821Abstract: A universal binding apparatus for detachably securing footwear to an article is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base plate and a foot plate. The base plate attaches to the article while the foot plate attaches to the footwear. The base plate includes a toe latch, a heel latch, and a first release. The toe latch is disposed at a front portion of the base plate while the heel latch is disposed at a rear portion of the base plate such that the first release is also disposed between the toe latch and the heel latch. The first release enables either the toe latch or the heel latch to be disengaged from the foot plate. The foot plate includes a toe support and a heel support. The toe support is disposed at a front portion of the shoe plate similar to the front portion of the base plate and while the heel support is disposed at a rear portion of the shoe plate. The shoe plate removably attaches to the base plate with the toe support engaged with the toe latch and the heel support engaged with the heel latch.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Miller Sports International, Inc.Inventors: Matthew E. Miller, Douglas K. Furr
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Patent number: 7178822Abstract: A stroller frame is foldable in two dimensions, and includes front and rear rods, a stretcher interconnecting and pivoted to the rear rods, a locking mechanism for retaining the stretcher at a folded position, a pair of seat rods, each of which is pivoted to an adjacent pair of the front and rear rods, and a pair of crossed linking rods, each of which is pivoted diagonally to a respective one of the front rods and a respective one of the seat rods.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shun-Min Chen
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Patent number: 7178823Abstract: A transport vehicle includes a bed formed in the rear end thereof. A base is seated on the bed and supports a load-bearing platform opposing the bed forming a storage space therebetween and an opening therebetween into the storage space at the rear end of the vehicle. A wheeled trailer is also provided, which is positionable in the storage space, is removable from the storage space, and has a hitched drawbar engagable to a tow bat secured to the rear of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Jen-Lung David Tai
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Patent number: 7178824Abstract: A suspension is provided that comprises a tandem axle walking beam with a vertically compliant center pivot bushing and a spring medium located over each axle center. The walking beam is rigidly attached to the axles and is pivotally coupled to a frame of the vehicle at a location intermediate of the first and second axles.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Dana CorporationInventor: James F. Ziech
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Patent number: 7178825Abstract: An inventive vehicle air bag door includes a back-up member 13 provided on the bottom side of a panel main body 1. The back-up member 13 includes a back-up section 27, a plate section 20 and a hinge section 24 which are integrally formed. The hinge section includes: a first curved portion 34a whose midsection is curved so as to protrude toward a door section 17; and a second curved portion 34b whose midsection is curved so as to protrude away from the door section 17. When the door section 17 is opened, the first and second curved portions 34a and 34b are each extended and then the plate section 20 is pivoted around its junction with the second curved portion 34b.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Nishikawa Kasei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mutsuo Fujii, Tomonori Tanaka, Mamoru Maruyama
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Patent number: 7178826Abstract: A vehicle seat comprises a back rest and a gas bag module integrated into said back rest extending in an upward direction to have an upward extent. The gas bag module includes a gas bag and a gas generator. When installed, the gas bag is arranged within the back rest so as to be extended in the upward direction of the back rest and one of folded and rolled up transversely to the upward direction. A height of said gas bag when inflated corresponds substantially to said upward extent of the back rest.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: TRW Occupant Restraint Systems GmbH & Co KGInventors: Dominique Acker, Sven Hofmann, Andreas Loos
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Patent number: 7178827Abstract: An automotive ejection prevention assembly is provided comprising an airbag mounted within the beltline of a vehicle door. The airbag has an airbag stored condition and an airbag deployed position. The airbag expands vertically upwards from the beltline when in the airbag deployed position. A cover cloth assembly is mounted within a window frame of the vehicle door. The cover cloth assembly has a vertical restraint edge mounted to a vertical portion of the window frame and a horizontal restraint edge mounted to the beltline. The cover cloth assembly includes an inner cloth surface and an outer cloth surface joined to form an internal pocket. The airbag is positioned within the internal pocket. The cover cloth assembly fills a portion of the window frame upon the airbag entering the airbag deployed position. The cover cloth assembly prevents occupant ejection through the window frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Fubang N. Wu, Jialiang Le, Karen M. Balavich, Clifford C. Chou
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Patent number: 7178828Abstract: The present invention provides a gas generator (10) that includes a housing (12) formed from coupling a cap (14) and a base (16) in nested relationship. At least one attachment member (20) is preferably formed symmetrically about and integral to a peripheral flange (18) of the cap (14). The contour of a peripheral edge (60) formed from recessed and protruding portions provides interlocking communication between the cap (14) and the base (16). A plurality of hook members (36) is symmetrically formed about the peripheral edge (38) of the base (16). Each hook member (36) corresponds to a respective protruding portion (30) of the cap (14). An arcuate groove (40) is formed by an inner wall (42) of each respective hook member (36). The groove (40) is preferably tapered whereby the arcuate length of the groove or the inner wall (42) is greater at the first end (44) than at the second end (46).Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery S. Blackburn
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Patent number: 7178829Abstract: An inflator (10) for use in inflatable restraint systems. The inflator includes an inner body portion (12) defining a combustion chamber (20) and including one or more apertures (13) formed therealong to enable fluid communication between the combustion chamber (20) and an exterior of the combustion chamber. A filter material (14) is positioned along an exterior of the inner body portion (12), for filtering and cooling combustion products emanating from the apertures (13) of the inner body portion (12). An outer body wrap (16) is provided having a pair of opposed longitudinal edges (16a, 16b). The outer body wrap (16) is formed from a foldable sheet material and has a dimension between the opposed edges (16a, 16b) sufficient to enable the wrap (16) to substantially enclose the predetermined thickness of filter material (14) when the wrap (16) is folded about the filter material (14).Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Autommotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery S. Blackburn
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Patent number: 7178830Abstract: The present invention provides an inflator for an inflatable restraint system in an automobile. The inflator includes an elongate inflator body containing a baffle tube that cools gases as they are shunted therethrough upon gas generator activation.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.Inventor: Jeffery S. Blackburn
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Patent number: 7178831Abstract: A gas generator including a housing, a combustion chamber formed in the housing, the combustion chamber being packed with gas generant to generate high temperature gas by burning and also having a filtering member, an igniter device, secured in the housing, for igniting and burning the gas generant packed in the combustion chamber, and a gas discharge hole, formed in the housing, to communicate between an interior of the housing and an exterior of the same through the combustion chamber and a gas flow pass, wherein a coolant is arranged in the gas flow pass.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki-KaishaInventors: Masahiro Yoshida, Ryoi Kodama, Yoshiyuki Kishino
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Patent number: 7178832Abstract: A telescoping steering column assembly of the present invention includes a lower jacket disposed in telescoping relationship within an upper jacket along a longitudinal axes, and a brake supported by the upper jacket for frictional engagement with the lower jacket. The brake presents an inclined surface sloping longitudinally of the jackets. A cam device of the assembly is rotatable into and out of engagement with the inclined surface. The cam device includes a lever to move the brake upwardly, to engage the lower jacket with the upper jacket, and downwardly, to disengage the jackets in different modes of operation of the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Hitonobu Ohtsu
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Patent number: 7178833Abstract: A steering column assembly is disclosed featuring a steering column carried by a release bracket having parallel connecting walls interposed between spaced sidewalls of a mounting bracket, which is for attachment to a vehicle subassembly. Shear capsules are releasably disposed within respective rearwardly-opening primary notches on the connecting walls. The capsules are connected to the mounting bracket by being disposed in respective secondary notches on the sidewalls. The capsules shear in response to an axial shear force above a predetermined threshold value and release the connecting walls to permit the steering column to collapse.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: William D. Cymbal, Richard K. Riefe, Richard E. Woycik
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Patent number: 7178834Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for supporting a steering wheel in a vehicle during normal vehicle handling and is breakable in response to an impact situation. The apparatus includes a member attachable to a vehicle and a steering column connected to the member for sliding movement. The apparatus also includes a capsule for connecting the member and the steering column to one another to prevent the sliding movement during normal vehicle handling. The capsule maintains the member and the steering column relative to one another, overcoming forces urging movement between the member and the steering column relative to one another, up to a first predetermined level of force. When the forces reach the first predetermined level, such as in an impact situation, the capsule breaks and releases the member and the steering column relative to one another.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Xiaoyu Li, John F. Schulz, Tracy L. Zehnder, Richard K. Riefe, David M. Byers
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Patent number: 7178835Abstract: In a belt locking device for a vehicle seat, in particular a motor vehicle seat, having a moveably attached belt lock (19), a tightening unit (13) supported on a structure-fixed support element (29), and a transmission element (21) acting between the tightening unit (13) and the belt lock (19), wherein, in the event of a crash, the tightening until (13) pulls the belt lock (19) from an initial position into a crash position by way of the transmission element (21), the position of the tightening unit (13) can be changed in a longitudinal direction of the transmission element (21) relative to the support element (29).Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Daniel Hippel, Michael König, Martin Reischmann, Henning Schneider, Hans Edrich, Andreas Diehl
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Patent number: 7178836Abstract: A fluid coupling for coupling a hose to a metal tube, of primary interest in hydraulic brake systems, provides dynamic strain relief so that hoses having braided reinforcing layers are made usable for normal highway use because the hoses can withstand Department of Transportation Whip Test while meeting thermal requirements. This is accomplished by a coaxial strain relief element which is integral with an eyelet-type tube fitting wherein the strain relief element is captured by a pocket disposed in the end of a crimping cup. A crimping cup directly engages the braided reinforcement layer to clamp the hose against a projecting nipple of the eyelet while having an annular lip portion which seats in the groove in the eyelet and presses the coaxial strain relief element into and direct engagement with the braided reinforcement layer.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Dana CorporationInventors: Steven R. Hoff, Donald H. Brugmann, Jr.
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Patent number: 7178837Abstract: A piping joint structure includes a first piping member, a second piping member having at least a window portion, and a joint member provided with a body unit and multiple engagement units, which protrude to the central axis side of the body unit and are capable of being diameter-enlarged and diameter-shortened. The body unit of the joint member has a semi-crack shape. The joint member hoops the second piping member from a periphery side of the second piping member, while the engagement units are inserted through the window portion. The first piping member is connected to the second piping member by a one-touch operation of diameter-enlarging and diameter-shortening of the engagement units.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Makoto Yoshino
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Patent number: 7178838Abstract: A nut and tail assembly (10) and method of manufacture including a nut (12) having a first end and an inward flange (24) at the other end, a longitudinal cylindrical hollow body (14) having a first end and a second end at which is located an outstanding flange (40) and a circular longitudinal sleeve (16). The sleeve (16) extends along said sliding surface and has a flange (44) at a first end abutting against the body flange (24). A stop (34) is located between the ends of the body (14) and defines a cavity sliding surface generally parallel to the longitudinal body between the stop (34) and flange (44). The nut inward flange (24) extends into the body cavity and is of a large enough diameter to be able to slide on said body sliding surface but small enough to be held within said cavity defined between said stop (34) and sleeve flange (44). Projections (50) on the sleeve flange (44) assist in locating the sleeve (16) relative to the nut (12) during the moulding process.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Philmac Pty LtdInventors: David Chelchowski, Geoffrey B. Puckett
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Patent number: 7178839Abstract: A latch assembly connected to a lock face of a sliding door includes two hooks which are connected to two activation plates respectively. Two rotation gears each have teeth engaged with the activation plates which are moved to pivot the two hooks when the two gears are rotated. A safety member is biased by a spring and includes a contact pin which movably extends through the lock face on the sliding door so that the safety member is pushed when the contact pin is pushed by a fixed door when the sliding door is in close position. The safety member further has an engaging pin which is removably engaged with the recess of the activation plate so that when the sliding door is in open position, the activation plate cannot be moved and the hooks are remained in the sliding door.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Imperial USA, Ltd.Inventor: Miao-Hsueh Tsai
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Patent number: 7178840Abstract: A dome clamp for retaining the dome lid of a tanker truck in a closed position. The dome clamp includes an upper tube, right and left clamp members, and a vertically adjustable locking means adapted to be movable from an unextended position out of contact with a dome lid to an extended position in contact with a dome lid. Each of the right and left clamp members have downwardly extending legs having claw members extending inwardly from a lower portion thereof, and arms extending inwardly from an upper portion thereof. The arms are positioned within the upper tube, and are attached to spring means for urging the right and left arms towards each other in an unloaded condition. The spring means allows the right and/or left arms to be moved away from each other in a loaded condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Douglas W. Veach
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Patent number: 7178841Abstract: A single-use security locking assembly for shipping containers, comprising, a pin, a tether assembly, a locking member, and locking means characterized in that the tether assembly snugly fits around door bars of a shipping container.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Jose M. Moreno
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Patent number: 7178842Abstract: A handle set includes a handle assembly having an operator, a rose insert, and a shank having a bore. The rose insert has a central opening and a post. The shank is affixed to the operator and rotatably received in the central opening. A rotational stop is coupled to the rose insert. A spindle guide is slidably received in the bore and is slidable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A kick-off plate having a retention slot is coupled to the spindle guide. A centralizing cup having a single multi-function tang and a lock retention feature is mounted to the shank. The multi-function tang is configured for rotation along a rotational path, the rotation being limited by the rotational stop. The lock retention feature is positioned to engage the retention slot when the spindle guide is in the locked position to thereby retain it in the locked position.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Newfrey, LLCInventor: Graham John Wheatland
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Patent number: 7178843Abstract: A litter and refuse retrieval device is provided for sanitarily and single-handedly cleaning up after a pet. The device includes an outer frame having an upper and a lower portion and an inner frame also having an upper and a lower portion. The upper and lower portions of the respective frames can be connected together to form the assembled retrieval device by interlocking prongs with respective prong receiving openings. The device further includes an outer frame having a handle at one end and outer nipples at the other end for pivotally mounting two scoops. Each scoop includes extended disk portions with holes therethrough that overlap with the disk portions of the other scoop placing the holes in alignment for insertion of the outer nipples of the outer frame. An inner control frame is carried by the outer frame and includes linkage arms having outwardly extending cylindrical portions having nipples extending therefrom for pivotally mounting the two scoops adjacent to the outer nipples.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Four Paws Products, Ltd.Inventor: Barry Askinasi
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Patent number: 7178844Abstract: The ball retriever includes a golf ball capturing housing having an entrance plane through which a golf ball can enter the housing. The entrance plane is defined by a first wall portion and a second spaced apart second wall portion where at least a portion of the housing moves to permit the golf ball to pass through the entrance plane and capture the ball within the housing. One of the wall portions can include a ridge disposed in close proximity to the entrance plane wherein the distance between the ridge and an opposing wall portion is smaller than the diameter of the golf ball such that the opposing wall moves to permit the ball to pass through the entrance, across the ridge and in to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Brian Evilsizer
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Patent number: 7178845Abstract: A compact, readily portable handheld article grasping apparatus for grasping articles such as door handles, gate handles, mailbox handles and the like. The apparatus includes a retractable gripping arm having a hook-like extremity for grasping objects. The gripping arm can be stowed when the article is being transported and quickly and easily deployed when the apparatus is to be used. When the article grasping arm is in a stowed configuration, the apparatus can be conveniently carried in the users pocket or purse.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventors: Paul Metzger, Jeff Metzger
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Patent number: 7178846Abstract: A device in the handling of containers, by means of which device at least two containers are handled. The device comprises a frame, to whose guides end pieces have been movably attached, which end pieces comprise attachment members for attaching the device to the corner fittings of the lowermost container(s) of the containers placed on top of one another. The invention also relates to a method in the handling of containers, in which method at least two containers are handled by means of a container transfer device, which container transfer device comprises a gripping member or equivalent. In the method, at least two containers placed on top of one another are handled.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Finnlines OyjInventor: Mika Niskanen
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Patent number: 7178847Abstract: A single unit illuminated magnifying tweezers apparatus used to facilitate the gripping and handling of small objects comprising a housing, a magnifying lens, a light source and tweezers. The tweezers are pivotally mounted within the cavity of the housing such that the gripping ends of the tweezers can be pivoted into the focal range of the magnifying lens, which in turn lies within a light beam projected by the light source. The tweezers are retracted snugly within the housing for convenient transport and storage. The apparatus allows the user, with one hand, to easily manipulate the tweezers to grip a target object, which along with the ends of the tweezers, are both illuminated and magnified.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Stephanie A. Mui
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Patent number: 7178848Abstract: A utility rack for a vehicle is provided. The utility rack includes a platform, at least one support rail positioned on the platform, and a plurality of storage rails connected to the at least one support rail. The plurality of storage rails have a stowed position generally parallel to the upper surface, and a deployed position generally perpendicular to the upper surface. The plurality of storage rails are arranged to pivot between the stowed position and the deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Carl Mather, Todd R Teasdale, Samer Shamon, William E Hughes, Daniel T Griffin, David E Dawkins, Richmond P Thomas
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Patent number: 7178849Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides an upper locking device for a slide-out room which ensures a substantially tight seal is created at the upper portion of the slide-out room.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: RBW Industries, Inc.Inventor: Raymond W. Blodgett, Jr.
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Patent number: 7178850Abstract: A tether fastening device includes a tether clip and a strap to couple a first engagement structure, such as a vehicle chassis, and a second engagement structure, such as a body panel. The strap is coupled to the tether clip and couples the first engagement structure with the second engagement structure to allow for controlled detachment. When attached, the tether clip fastens the first engagement structure with the second engagement structure. For example, the tether clip and first engagement structure may detach from the second engagement structure; however, the strap controls the acceleration, speed and distance displaced between the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure. According to one embodiment, the tether clip may further include a tether cap integrated with the strap and a fastener clip operative to couple to the tether cap.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Termax CorporationInventors: Michael Walter Smith, Mark Fleydervish, Joseph W. Lowry, Edward Sacha, Daniel James Dickinson
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Patent number: 7178851Abstract: A protective device for a cargo area of a vehicle having doors and a rear opening includes an enclosure to be positioned in the cargo area of the vehicle and having an opening for receiving cargo. A plurality of straps is attached to the enclosure for extending through the doors and rear opening for connecting external the vehicle for securing the enclosure within the cargo area.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Garth Gridley
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Patent number: 7178852Abstract: A top for a convertible vehicle includes a roof module having at least one rigid roof part, the roof module being connected to the vehicle by way of a main link mechanism. The roof module is movable over the course of an opening movement of the top into a rear-side storage region of the vehicle. The main link mechanism includes a main four-bar linkage and a second four-bar linkage constructed on the main four-bar linkage. The second four-bar linkage is coupled in a positively controlled manner to the main four-bar linkage.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Edscha Cabrio-Dachsysteme GmbHInventors: Klaus Obendiek, Franz Haberl
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Patent number: 7178853Abstract: A vehicle door for fitting to a vehicle body includes a vehicle door frame, and a pivot arm coupled to the door frame. The door frame includes an upper portion, a lower portion, and a pair of opposite sides extending between the upper and lower portions. The pivot arm is coupled to the door frame adjacent one of the opposite sides, and includes a pair of opposite ends. One of the ends of the pivot arm includes a first hinge for pivotally coupling the pivot arm to the vehicle body about a first pivot axis. The other end includes a second hinge pivotally coupling the door frame to the pivot arm about a second pivot axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Intier Automotive Closures Inc.Inventors: Peter Lance Oxley, Peter Adam Lejbjuk, Dragan Mrkovic
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Patent number: 7178854Abstract: A door apparatus includes a door having a hole and configured to be slidable with respect to a vehicle body, a member configured to open and close the hole, a first detector configured to detect a position of the member relative to the hole to determine an openness of the hole, a second detector configured to detect a position of the door relative to the body, and a unit configured to be activated to project from one to another of the body and the door, so as to abut on the another such that the door is stopped from sliding in an opening direction, when the openness is greater than a threshold, and the position is between a full-closed position and a midway position.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2006Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mikio Ichinose, Fumihiro Yoneyama
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Patent number: 7178855Abstract: An automotive door panel fastener assembly is provided including a substrate and a doghouse structure molded thereon. The doghouse structure includes a doghouse floor, a doghouse ceiling, a first doghouse sidewall having a first forward end and a first rearward end, a second doghouse sidewall having a second forward end and a second rearward end, a doghouse endwall, and a doghouse insertion opening. A pin chamber is formed through the doghouse ceiling. An entrance slot is formed in the doghouse ceiling to provide a path from the doghouse insertion opening to the pin chamber. The entrance slot has a first slot side and a second slot side. A first flexible arm has a first fixed end and a first free end. The first flexible arm is flexible in response to an inward force and is rigid in response to an outward force.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Roger Catron, Aaron DeLong, Gerry Krause, Marko Markovic
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Patent number: 7178856Abstract: There is provided a clip 30 for mounting an installation base member 22 of a weather strip 20 on a flange 100 provided along a body of an automobile, wherein said clip 30 is composed of a fixing piece 31 mounted on an exposed end portion of a resin insert 24 embedded in the installation base member 22 of said weather strip 20; and a pressuring piece 32 which is rotatably mounted to the fixing piece 31, approaches one side surface of said flange 100 by the rotation to make an elastic contact, and holds said flange 100 with an installation surface of said installation base member 22 mounted on the other side surface of said flange 100.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Nishikawa Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventor: Katsushi Saito
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Patent number: 7178857Abstract: A camping system convertible between a transporting configuration and a camping configuration. The system includes a large storage compartment to allow storage of large items such as all terrain vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and other large items even when in the compact transporting configuration. The system includes side walls that pivot upward and outward to create side compartments for sleeping or other uses.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Let's Go Aero, Inc.Inventor: Marty Williams
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Patent number: 7178858Abstract: The invention provides a pair of panels, positioned on opposite sides of a motorcycle, and supported on the front portion of the frame of the motorcycle to deflect air flow or wind away from the rider. The panels are pivotally mounted on a bracket which is secured to the frame, such that the panels may be positioned to provide maximum comfort to the rider.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Walter T. Hesse
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Patent number: 7178859Abstract: An airflow control device comprises a body and an active material in operative communication with the body. The active material, such as shape memory material, is operative to change at least one attribute in response to an activation signal. The active material can change its shape, dimensions and/or stiffness producing a change in at least one feature of the airflow control device such as shape, dimension, location, orientation, and/or stiffness to control vehicle airflow to better suit changes in driving conditions such as weather, ground clearance and speed, while reducing maintenance and the level of failure modes. As such, the device reduces vehicle damage due to inadequate ground clearance, while increasing vehicle stability and fuel economy. An activation device, controller and sensors may be employed to further control the change in at least one feature of the airflow control device such as shape, dimension, location, orientation, and/or stiffness of the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson
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Patent number: 7178860Abstract: A trailer wall construction having reduced weight. A trailer wall construction includes a spherical shaped corner at a juncture of three walls. Each of the walls includes at least one panel having spaced apart inner and outer shells. Another trailer wall construction includes a generally vertically extending front or side wall and a floor. The floor and front or side wall each includes at least one panel comprising spaced apart inner and outer shells. A curved connector connects a lower edge of the front or side wall to an edge of the floor. Yet another trailer wall construction includes a wall with panels attached to one another along opposing edges of the panels, each of the panels including spaced apart inner and outer shells. One connector is attached to each of the panels along a third edge. Another connector is attached to each of the panels along a fourth edge.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Vantage Trailers, Inc.Inventor: Brian C. Lemmons
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Patent number: 7178861Abstract: A vehicle body structure in which a hollow-section crossmember is attached to rear end portions of right and left center frame members is provided. Right and left extension members extending rearward are joined to the rear end portions of the right and left center frame members. The crossmember is joined to the tops of the right and left extension members. Right and left reinforcing plates are provided in a hollow space of the crossmember at portions at which the extension members are joined to the crossmember. The right and left reinforcing plates are supported on the right and left extension members, whereby the crossmember is firmly supported on the rear end portions of the center frame members and is increased in rigidity.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hirotomo Yamada, Takahiro Uesaka
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Patent number: 7178862Abstract: A sliding roof system includes at least one guide rail, a carriage shiftable in the guide rail, and a cover support coupled with the carriage. The cover support is adapted to be attached to a cover that is movable to open and close a roof opening. A first lifting lever has one end connected to the cover support and another end connected to the carriage with guide pieces received within slots formed in the carriage.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: ArvinMeritor GmbHInventor: Holger Oechel
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Patent number: 7178863Abstract: A seat section and a back section are provided with a rod pivotably forming the rear end of the seat section and the lower end of the back section. A pair of parallel arm rests are also provided. A forward support has a central extent and end extents pivotably coupled to forward pivot points of the arm rests. A rearward support has a central extent and end extents coupled to intermediate pivot points of the arm rests. A front brace is formed of an upper component rotatably coupled to the seat section and a lower component rotatably coupled to the forward support.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Charles L. Norval
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Patent number: 7178864Abstract: A foldable chair includes a frame body having a looped seat frame, and a fabric sheet having a rounded marginal portion. The marginal portion includes a plurality of angularly spaced-apart flaps, each having a sleeve section and a string inserted into the sleeve section. A releasable fastening unit is provided to connect a first end of the string of each flap to a second end of the string of an adjacent one of the flaps. The flaps are folded over the seat frame. The strings of the flaps form a loop after the first ends of the strings of the flaps are respectively connected to the second ends of the strings of the flaps. The loop has a cross section smaller than that of the seat frame.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Habitex CorporationInventor: Duan-Cheng Hsieh
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Patent number: 7178865Abstract: An automotive seat assembly is provided including a left rear seat portion including a left rear seat base and a left rear seatback, a right rear seat portion including a right rear seat base and a right rear seatback, and a center rear seat portion including a center rear seat base and a center rear seatback. A head restraint assembly is mounted to the center rear seatback and defines a head restraint protrusion distance above the upper seatback surface. The head restraint assembly is movable between a head restraint operational position and a head restraint stowed position. The head restraint stowed position reduces the head restraint protrusion distance for improved visibility. A convenience feature assembly is formed within the center rear seatback and is movable between an convenience feature stowed position and an convenience feature deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Nagarjun Yetukuri, Gerald S. Locke, Kar K. Low, Dale Smallwood
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Patent number: 7178866Abstract: An open-air vehicle seat for a motorcycle, a snowmobile, or an all terrain vehicle etc. is provided which enables a vehicle operator to turn on or off a plurality of heating elements embedded in a multi-layer seat cover on top of the vehicle seat.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Steven J. Scott
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Patent number: 7178867Abstract: A secure life jacket container assembly includes a hollow container defining a storage volume which receives a life jacket in a packed condition. A cover is attached to the container with a tamper-evident sealing material. Removal of the cover causes an irreversible change in the sealing material which provides an indication that tampering has occurred.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.Inventor: Ray Hough
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Patent number: 7178868Abstract: A gardening chair 10 is provided for supporting a user 12 thereon. The gardening chair 10 is provided with a base support member 14, and a seat 52 aligned with and coupled to upper portions of the base support member for supporting a user's lower body thereon. A diagonally extending chest support member 72 is provided for supporting a user's chest 12 and upper body thereon. A pair of elongated upwardly biasing members 86 and 88 are coupled between the diagonally extending chest support member 72 and the base support member 14 to support the member for movement to a plurality of predetermined diagonal positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventors: Charlene F. Richardson, Michael A. Richardson, Glenn A. Stewart
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Patent number: 7178869Abstract: A bicycle seat assembly having a platform defining two transversely extending wing sections and a forwardly extending horn section, and a pod mounted adjustably on each wing section.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Paul Ljubich
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Patent number: 7178870Abstract: An apparatus (10) is used in a vehicle having a seat (2) for a vehicle occupant and a vehicle floor pan (4) for supporting the vehicle seat (2). The apparatus (10) includes a vehicle seat frame (20), a bracket (30), a spring element (240, 340 or 340, 350), a lever (90), and a sensor (992). The spring element (240, 340 or 340, 350) compresses to allow the vehicle seat frame (20) to move vertically when the load of the vehicle occupant acts on the vehicle seat (2). The lever (90) has a first end portion (100) and a second end portion (110) opposite the first end portion (100). The first end portion (100) is movable with the vehicle seat frame (20). The second end portion (110) is movable with the vehicle seat frame (20). The lever (90) has a middle portion (120) interposed between the first end portion (100) and the second end portion (110). The lever (90) bends as the vehicle seat frame (20) moves vertically relative to the bracket (30).Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLCInventors: George B. Wolfe, Nick L. Smith