Patents Issued in September 11, 2007
  • Patent number: 7267353
    Abstract: A support for use with a two wheeled vehicle, such as a motorcycle, having a kickstand arm adapted to support the vehicle in a parked condition with the kickstand arm at ground level. The support has a much larger area than that of the free end of the kickstand, thereby avoiding embedding of the free end of the kickstand in the ground or pavement on which the motorcycle is parked. An adjustable length lanyard couples the support member to a selected part of the motorcycle, thereby facilitating retrieval of the support when its use no longer is necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Dennis E. Mayhew
  • Patent number: 7267354
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a towing device which can be attached to a vehicle, in order to tow a heavy equipment vehicle, such as a tractor. The towing device includes a towbar hitch having two ends, a first end which attaches to a towing vehicle and a second end attached to a vehicle to be towed; a holder disposed at the second end of the towbar hitch, which holds the vehicle to be towed; and an attachment mechanism which attaches the vehicle to be towed, to the holder. The attachment mechanism includes a plurality of connectors or turnbuckles; and a plurality of links or chains which are attached to the holder, and to the vehicle to be towed. The connectors and the links can be adjusted in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventors: John P. Cunningham, Robert Cunningham
  • Patent number: 7267355
    Abstract: A hitch assembly that includes an anti-rotation mechanism. The hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball, a ball mount, and a fastener. The invention is directed to a mechanism for preventing rotation of either the hitch ball or the fastener relative to the ball mount. The anti-rotation mechanism of the present invention provides an engagement means for interlocking sections of the hitch ball or fastener with the ball mount, thereby blocking rotation of the hitch ball or fastener relative to the ball mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Irgens, Frank Scott, John Zapushek, Rolf Hohmann, Mark Van Handel, Craig Kottke, Christopher Rhode
  • Patent number: 7267356
    Abstract: A safety-binding heelpiece, for a ski boot, comprising a tubular body (1) having a trigger function and including, at one of its ends, a heel grip (2) for holding the heel of a ski boot on a ski, this tubular body (1) being articulated in rotation about a cam (3) formed in a cylindrical piece, this cam being integral with two lateral arms (4) connected to a base (8) mounted so as to move longitudinally on a plinth (9) for fasting to a ski, the separation between the two arms (4) at the base being smaller than their separation at their link with the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Look Fixations S.A.
    Inventors: Thierry Buquet, Frédéric Farges
  • Patent number: 7267357
    Abstract: A multi-function binding system configured for use on a sliding board comprising: (a) a binding operable with a boot assembly, the binding comprising a support surface and toe and heel pieces; (b) a base assembly rotatably and removably secured to a deck of a sliding board and to releasably couple the binding, the base assembly comprising: (i) a support disc removably coupled to the deck of the sliding board and to secure the base assembly to the sliding board; (ii) a deck plate rotatable about the support disc and configured to be positioned adjacent the deck; (iii) a bonnet also rotatable about the support disc and configured to receive and engage the binding; (iv) an adjustment mechanism for rotational adjustment of the bonnet and the deck plate about the support disc with respect to the sliding board; (v) a coupler mechanism configured to releasably couple the binding to the base assembly, and therefore the boot system to the sliding board, thereby securing a user thereto; and (vi) a release for actuating
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Miller Sports International, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew E. Miller, Shane R. Barney, Brady S. Fox, Douglas K. Furr
  • Patent number: 7267358
    Abstract: A foldable frame includes spaced-apart first and second support rods, a first bar having a first end connected pivotally to the first support rod, a second bar having first and second ends connected pivotally and respectively to the second support rod and a second end of the first bar, a sleeve disposed slidably around the first bar and movable to a juncture of the first and second bars when the bars are unfolded so as to limit relative movement between the first and second bars, and a control unit having a cable connected to the sleeve for pulling the sleeve away from the juncture of the first and second bars so that the first and second bars can be folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Wonderland Nurserygoods Co, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shun-Min Chen
  • Patent number: 7267359
    Abstract: A collapsible stroller frame capable of being either collapsed or expanded with a rod set, wherein a slide sleeve is located at a front supporter of the stroller frame and a foldable supporter is pivotally connected between the front supporter and a rear supporter. A link rod connects the slide sleeve and the foldable supporter, and is pivotally connected between the front and rear supporter. The foldable supporter includes a front folding tube and a rear folding tube, pivotally connected to each other. A user can operate the foldable supporter to shorten the distance between the front and rear folding tubes, by disengaging the slide sleeve from the frame, thereby facilitating assembly and folding of the stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Link Treasure Limited
    Inventors: Cheng-Fan Yang, Hung-Chung Hou, Sen-Yung Jiang
  • Patent number: 7267360
    Abstract: An air-bag structure includes a tear seam that forms an air-bag door. The tear seam is not broken by shock applied from a passenger room, but the tear seam is easily broken upon expansion of the air-bag to secure smooth and reliable deployment of the air-bag operation and provides a sturdy air-bag structure against the shock from a passenger room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Woo Youn Geum
  • Patent number: 7267361
    Abstract: A fastener for fastening an airbag assembly to a structural member of a vehicle has an abutment element with a front side and a reverse side. An expansion element is arranged on the reverse side of the abutment element and is designed so as to clamp the structural member between the abutment element and the expansion element. The expansion element can be arranged on the structural member of the vehicle in a detachable manner and from the front side can be directly or indirectly detached from the structural member with the help of unlocking means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Key Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Volker Hofmann, Bernhard Schmidt, Med Merzouk, Matthias Volkmann, Joachim Verheugen
  • Patent number: 7267362
    Abstract: An airbag configuration technology which contributes to intensive protection of a rider of a motorbike in case of accident, and other technologies related thereto are provided. An airbag apparatus including an airbag which is deployed and inflated in a rider protecting area defined in front of the rider in case of a front collision, an inflator capable of supplying inflation gas into the airbag, and a rectifying cloth capable of adjusting the flowing state of inflation gas fed from the inflator and flowing within the airbag is mounted to a motorcycle as a motorbike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuhito Miyata
  • Patent number: 7267363
    Abstract: An air-bag assembly for a vehicle including an air-bag unit mounted on a seat. The air-bag unit is connected to a mounting member. The mounting member is secured to or forms part of the structure of the seat. The air-bag unit has a first set of locking formations and the mounting member has a second set of locking formations. The locking formations of one of the sets are apertures and the locking formations of the other of the sets are projections. Each aperture at least partially receives a respective projection. A spring is mounted to either the mounting member or the air-bag unit so as to extend across each of the apertures to form a snap-connection between the air-bag unit and the mounting member near each aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Autoliv Development AB
    Inventor: Jean Yves Tredez
  • Patent number: 7267364
    Abstract: A curtain airbag device which allows quick deployment of a curtain airbag. When an inflator is activated, a curtain airbag is deployed downward along the cabin-side of a pillar garnish. During the deployment, the rear portion of the curtain airbag is guided by a guide rod via a link strap. The curtain airbag include first vertical chamber extending from the upper end to the lower end of the curtain airbag along the guide rod and having the maximum horizontal sectional area when being inflated. An angle defined by a centerline in the first vertical chamber and a vertical line is within a range of ±20°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Noguchi, Tetsu Mitsuo
  • Patent number: 7267365
    Abstract: An inflator for a vehicle occupant restraint system. The inflator includes a cylindrical outer wall having a longitudinal axis and a first opening formed therealong for enabling fluid communication between an interior of the inflator and an exterior of the inflator. A first inflation fluid source is positioned within the outer wall. A baffle system is fluidly interposed between the first inflation fluid source and the outer wall for conveying inflation fluid between the first inflation fluid source and the outer wall, and for cooling the inflation fluid. A second opening enables fluid communication between the first inflation fluid source and the baffle system, and a third opening enables fluid communication between the baffle system and the outer wall. The first opening is substantially radially aligned with the second opening. An expanded metal mesh buffer may be positioned between within the baffle system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: Eduardo L. Quioc
  • Patent number: 7267366
    Abstract: An airbag device includes an airbag and an inflator disposed at a side of a base portion of the airbag for inflating the airbag. The airbag includes a left half airbag with a vent hole to be inflated at a front left of a vehicle occupant, and a right half airbag with a vent hole to be inflated at a front right of the vehicle occupant. The distal ends of the left half airbag and the right half airbag are spaced part from each other to form an empty space therebetween facing the vehicle occupant when the airbag is inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Hasebe, Yukitoshi Narimoto
  • Patent number: 7267367
    Abstract: A reversible energy absorbing assembly including a shape memory foam disposed within an interior region, wherein the shape memory foam is adapted to expand to an expanded configuration in response to fluid communication with a fluid source. The shape memory foam is a material selected from the group consisting of shape memory alloys and shape memory polymers. Once expanded, the assembly effectively absorbs kinetic energy of an object upon impact with the assembly. The shape memory foam can be thermally activated to restore the original configuration of the energy absorbing assembly. Methods of operating the energy absorbing assembly are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: William Barvosa-Carter, Nancy L. Johnson, Alan L. Browne, Guillermo A. Herrera, Geoffrey P. Mc Knight, Cameron Massey
  • Patent number: 7267368
    Abstract: A stabilizer pad apparatus that includes a pair of plate members; and a pad assembly that is adapted for mounting from the pair of plate members. The pad assembly includes a resilient pad having at least one ground engageable work surface and a holder for the resilient pad. A first pivot is provided for supporting the pair of plate members from a stabilizer base; and a second pivot is provided that is substantially transverse to the first pivot for supporting the pad assembly from the plate members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Andry Lagsdin
  • Patent number: 7267369
    Abstract: A truck has a power unit including a main casing for housing drive apparatus and a platform onto which an operator may step and ride while controlling the truck. The casing includes at least one substantially rigid wall member and an operator support pad associated with the wall member. The support pad includes a main body having a first portion defining a deformable pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Crown Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Michael P. Gallagher, Robert J. Henshaw
  • Patent number: 7267370
    Abstract: The invention provides a steering column for a vehicle. The steering column includes an outer member having a first portion and a clamping portion cantilevered from the first portion. The clamping portion includes first and second projections and a first aperture defined between the first and second projections. The steering column also includes an inner member received in the first aperture for telescoping movement relative to the outer member along an axis. The steering column also includes a clamping mechanism disposed to selectively urge the first and second projections closer to one another to change a size of the first aperture. The first aperture is relatively smaller when the first and second projections have been urged relatively closer together by the clamping mechanism to lock the inner and outer members relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas H. Drinan
  • Patent number: 7267371
    Abstract: A correspondence kit and method for continued and repeated mailing or sharing or exchanging of a journal between two or more participants. The kit includes a journal of blank writing pages, multiple mailing envelopes, a primary sending envelope and accessories such as photo corners, stickers and labels. One participant will write in the book, add mementos, photographs and similar items. The book will be mailed, with return envelopes to another participant, who will add to the book, and return it to the original sender, or to another participant. The journal is exchanged between the participants until it is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Westrick
  • Patent number: 7267372
    Abstract: Tube connectors and tube connector systems are provided. An exemplary system includes a first sleeve, a second sleeve, and radially compressible ring. A tube fits radially inside of the ring and the first and second sleeves. As the first and second sleeves are coupled and brought closer together, inner surfaces of the sleeves exert a radial force onto the ring, causing the ring to radially compress onto the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Pi-Thon Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael T. Roberts, Mark T. Noel
  • Patent number: 7267373
    Abstract: On the inner surface of a rubber hose body 12, a laminated hard resin layer 14 is formed to constitute a barrier layer that is impermeable to fluids. A clamping connection is made to hose 10 by a clamping member 24, which clamps the hose body to a companion pipe 18 when the companion pipe is inserted into the hose body. The layer 14 is not laminated over the entire axial length of the hose body but instead leaves an end part exposed. An annular groove is formed at the end 36 of the layer 14 abutting the end part of the hose 10. An elastic impermeable material is placed in the groove which is compressed by the pipe upon insertion. The companion pipe 18 has a protuberance 22 which rests at a position between the end 36 of resin layer 14 and the clamping member so that a seal is formed by elastic compression of the outer surface of companion pipe 18 against the end part of the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazushige Sakazaki, Koji Hioki
  • Patent number: 7267374
    Abstract: A coupling includes a main body, a rotatable member, and a seal member. The main body has an internal passageway for fluid flow therethrough, and includes a first portion defining a first end of the coupling and includes a second portion defining a second end of the coupling and forming an abutment structure. The rotatable member encircles the main body along the second portion, and includes an engagement structure for engaging a complementary structure. The rotatable member has first and second opposite axial ends, and the seal member is disposed between at least one of the first and second opposite axial ends of the rotatable member and the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey T. Nielson
  • Patent number: 7267375
    Abstract: An apparatus for joining ends of a pair of ducts together in end-to-end relationship has a collar with a first end portion and a second end portion, a first coupler element translatably secured to an exterior of the collar for moving the first end portion between first and second positions, and a second coupler element translatably secured to the exterior of the collar so as to move the second end portion between first and second positions. The end portions have a plurality of fingers that are movable so as to be free of the surfaces of the duct when in the first position and which contact a rib of the duct when in the second position. The collar and the coupler elements form a liquid-tight seal over the respective ends of the pair of ducts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Felix L. Sorkin
  • Patent number: 7267376
    Abstract: A tube joint for a fuel tank includes a joint body having a tubular shape, and a barrier layer covering the inner surface of the joint body. The joint body is formed of a material which is weldable to a tank body, and the barrier layer is formed of a material which has fuel impermeability and a predetermined hardness. The barrier layer has an extension portion extending from a distal end of the joint body along an axial direction of the joint body. The extension portion includes a projecting portion which protrudes radially and outwardly of the extension portion at or adjacent to a proximal end of the extension portion such that a seal groove is formed between the projecting portion and the joint body, and a nail portion which protrudes radially and outwardly of the extension portion at or adjacent to a distal end of the extension portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Isayama, Hideki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7267377
    Abstract: A latch assembly for a movable closure element. The latch assembly has a housing, a first rotor movable relative to the housing selectively between a) a first latched position and b) a release position, and a second rotor movable relative to the housing selectively between a) a first latched position and b) a release position. The first rotor has a first throat to receive a strike element. The latch assembly further has an operating assembly with a latched state and an unlatched state. The operating assembly in the latched state releasably maintains the first rotor in its first latched position and the second rotor in its first latched position. The first rotor is movable substantially parallel to a reference plane as the first rotor moves between its first latched and release positions. The first rotor has a non-uniform thickness taken orthogonally to the reference plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Tri/Mark Corporation
    Inventors: Ricci L. Marzolf, Joe Daniel Knight, Bruce E. Kallevig, Bruce E. Frohman
  • Patent number: 7267378
    Abstract: A magneto-mechanical locking device for locking a door can be displaced in relation to a stationary frame. The locking device contains a locking element produced from a magnetizable material and disposed on the frame. The locking device further has a permanent magnet that is mounted on the door and can be twisted from a first release position, in which the locking element is subject to substantially no action of magnetic force, to a second locking position, in which the locking element is attracted by the action of magnetic force of the permanent magnet and locks the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Drumm GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Peter Drumm
  • Patent number: 7267379
    Abstract: A flush bolt includes a bolt head and a strike. The bolt head moves out of the flush bolt in response to movement of the strike into the flush bolt, through a movable cam surface in the flush bolt. The bolt head is withdrawn towards the flush bolt when the strike is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Architectural Builders Hardware Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Arturo D. Rusiana
  • Patent number: 7267380
    Abstract: An improved rotary latch and housing configured to receive a strike is described. The housing includes two parts that are mated together to improve their resistance to impact forces imparted by the strike. The housing is provided with a channel-shaped recess for receiving the strike. A rotary jaw and rotary pawl are disposed within the housing to secure the strike in a locked position and release the strike in an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: A.L. Hansen Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Charles Bullock, William F. Laubach
  • Patent number: 7267381
    Abstract: A new, unique, lightweight and compact dog waste-collection device and bag disposal system is disclosed for the sanitary and convenient capture and disposal of dog waste comprised of a telescoping plastic handle and a collection bag rim which can be easily transformed from the closed “carry” position 120 degrees to the open “working” position. A new, specific, disposable, 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable waste-collection bag which is quickly and easily affixed to the device by sliding a hole in the bag down and around the device's handle, pushing the bag through the inside of the collection bag rim allowing the top 2? or so of the bag to fold over the collection bag rim. The device is positioned behind an eliminating dog and catches the waste before it hits the ground. The bag is removed with a simple downward pull and disposed of in an environmentally-responsible manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventors: William Norman Cafferty, Joseph Peter Cafferty
  • Patent number: 7267382
    Abstract: The present invention features a system to generate vacuum for picking up and holding a component in a component placement machine wherein the arrangement of the elements comprising the system prevents the flow of foreign matter back through the system. One arrangement locates a venturi between a valve and nozzle, thereby minimizing where vacuum exists within the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Universal Instruments Corporation
    Inventors: Koen A. Gieskes, John D. Danek
  • Patent number: 7267383
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus serve to secure a gripper tool detachably to a movable crossbar of a transfer press. The gripper tool has two saddles, with spacing between them, which are brought into engagement with two bearings mounted on the crossbar and locked in a defined engagement position. To attain faster, simpler assembly, the gripper tool is introduced in an inclined position relative to the crossbar, by at least one protrusion of rounded longitudinal section or tapering in wedgelike fashion, on the first saddle, into a correspondingly rounded or V-shaped narrowing recess in the first bearing. The second saddle is then pivoted toward the crossbar. In the process, wedge faces on the second saddle and on the second bearing press the protrusion axially against the wall of the recess by the force of gravity. In the end position, the second saddle is locked to the second bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Bilsing Automation GmbH
    Inventor: Alfred Bilsing
  • Patent number: 7267384
    Abstract: A quickly installed and quickly removable tubular mounting bracket that supports a side view mirror and is connected at a minimum to the upper hinge structure remaining on the side of the vehicle after the door is removed. On two-door 4×4 off road vehicles commonly referred to as JEEP, two hinge members remain after a door is removed, one above the other and set at a spaced-apart distance from one another, and the present invention can be manufactured to engage one or both of them. The mounting bracket herein further has an angle that follows the angle of the windshield for aesthetic, practical, and aerodynamic purposes, with the mounting of the brackets used for securing driver and passenger mirrors to the vehicle without doors being slightly different from one another to provide optimum driver visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Randy Coviello
  • Patent number: 7267385
    Abstract: A vehicle trim component locating and attachment system is provided for connecting a trim component to a vehicle base panel having an aperture. The system includes a locator projection integrally formed on the component and including first and second ends. The first end is configured to project through the panel aperture, and the second end is configured to receive a screw. The projection provides for location of the component relative to the panel, and further provides for secure attachment of the component to the panel by the screw. A method of locating and connecting vehicle components is also provided. The method includes the steps of forming an aperture in a panel, providing a component for attachment to the panel, with the component including a projection as described herein, and attaching the component to the panel by inserting a screw in the projection while the projection is positioned within the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Williams, Peter Bejin, Kaushlendra Singh
  • Patent number: 7267386
    Abstract: A body part of a vehicle, the body part having: an outer sheet that will form a part of the vehicle exterior surface; an inner part disposed between the outer sheet and the passenger compartment when the body part is assembled to the vehicle; a first infrared radiation reflecting layer on the outer surface of the outer sheet; and a second infrared radiation reflecting layer on the surface of the inner part that faces the outer sheet. The inner part includes a thermal insulation material. The outer sheet and the inner part delimit an air flow path for supporting a flow of air adjacent the outer sheet and in the direction of the length of the vehicle. The air flow path is distributed transversely to the length of the vehicle for transporting heat convectively away from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Rolf Hesch
  • Patent number: 7267387
    Abstract: A supplemental tailgate extends from the tailgate frame of a pickup truck and is positionable in multiple orientations to provide a variety of uses, including as an extension of the pickup truck bed. The supplemental tailgate includes a cross member connected between two telescoping supports, which forms a part of the tailgate molding when stored within the main tailgate structure. A lock rod assembly interconnects the supplemental tailgate and the body of the pickup truck to stabilize the position of the extended supplemental tailgate when positioned perpendicular to the opened main tailgate. The lock rod assembly can be formed as flexible cables that can be housed within the cross member for easy deployment when needed. The lock rod assembly can also be formed as fixed length rods that are pivotally mounted on the cross member and stored within the cross member for easy deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Bruford, Scott Miller, Kian-Huat Tan, Herbert Gruber, David Tuck
  • Patent number: 7267388
    Abstract: A window assembly cooperating with a window frame on a golf car includes a first window pane selectively coupled to the window frame. A second window pane is selectively coupled to the window frame and offset from the first window pane. A first pair of retaining members are arranged on the window frame in an installed position and movable between a retaining position wherein the retaining members retain the first window pane in an upright position and a release position wherein the retaining members are disengaged from the first window pane. Each of the first pair of retaining members are defined by a rigid frame having an integrally molded elastomeric body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Donald S. Hanson, Jr., Richard Krall
  • Patent number: 7267389
    Abstract: The invention comprises a vehicle load bin cover (1) that includes front (2) and rear (3) sections hinged together along contiguous edges and the front section other edge hingeable to a vehicle load bin, characterized in that the rear section (3) carries a support (14) pivoted at one end thereto with the other end pivotably mountable to the load bin to enable the cover (1) to be raised and lowered with the rear section (3) maintained in a substantially constant relation to the loadbin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Hermanus A. De Vries
  • Patent number: 7267390
    Abstract: A vehicle decklid system uses a planetary gear drive to move a decklid relative to a vehicle body. The planetary gear drive includes a rotatable gear that is disposed between two fixed gears. One fixed gear is rigidly mounted to the decklid and one fixed gear is rigidly mounted to the vehicle body. A rotating link connects centers of the rotatable gear and two fixed gears. The combination of the planetary gear drive and rotating link make it possible to provide powered complex, two-dimensional motion of the decklid requiring a four-bar linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: AVM, Inc.
    Inventors: Chihping Kuan, Joseph Benjamin Saxon, Shelley Lynn Bolbrugge, Adam Kyle Cramton, Enrico Fin, Jack R. Roach, Karim Dayoub, Walter Douglas Bauman
  • Patent number: 7267391
    Abstract: In the present control method of a powered sliding device, a sliding movement of the sliding door in the closing direction by an external force is monitored after the sliding door is slid in the opening direction by the motive power of the motor to reach the opening end position and the sliding movement by the motor is terminated. A brake is applied to the sliding door for a predetermined time when the sliding movement of the sliding door in the closing direction at a speed higher than a predetermined speed is detected within a predetermined time. After that, the brake is applied to the sliding door again for a predetermined time when the sliding movement of the sliding door in the closing direction at a speed higher than a predetermined speed is detected again within a predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kazuhito Yokomori
  • Patent number: 7267392
    Abstract: A utility trailer transport system is disclosed, wherein the utility trailer in the form of a pop-up camper is rotatably mounted via one of a plurality of structures on a transport trailer. The camper is positioned in one orientation for transport and a second orientation for use. A bed on the transport trailer serves to transport equipment and as a deck when the camper is in the second orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Rounds
  • Patent number: 7267393
    Abstract: A trailer body includes left and right bottom rails and left and right top rails all parallel to each other. A floor extends between the left and right bottom rails. A left vertical sidewall is defined between the left bottom rail and the left top rail. A right vertical sidewall is defined between the right bottom rail and the right top rail. The sidewalls are defined by a plurality of abutted extruded wall panels that extend vertically between the respective bottom and top rails. The floor is optionally defined by a plurality of abutted and interconnected one-piece extruded floor panels that extend between the left and right bottom rails. The wall and/or floor panels can include an I-beam post/cross-member defined in the extrusion profile. The panels can also define half I-beam post/cross-members so that adjacent abutted panels cooperate to define additional full I-beam post/cross-members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Howard D. Booher
  • Patent number: 7267394
    Abstract: A tubular front end structure for use with a unitized automotive frame. The tubular front end structure includes a pair of upper frame rail members that are welded to the A-pillar at vertically spaced positions. A first upper rail member provides support for the fender and bends downwardly and forwardly to support tubular upper and lower radiator supports. The other upper rail member connects to the other upper rail member and bends downwardly to connect with the lower frame rail at an intermediate position to provide support for the shock tower. The lower frame rail is formed with an “S-bend” to correspond to the shape of the unitized automotive frame and includes a bracket attached thereto at the S-bend to increase the section properties of the lower frame rail as required to maintain the section properties of the replaced frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Tim Mouch, Michael Azzouz, Musa Azzouz
  • Patent number: 7267395
    Abstract: A vehicle upper body structure of the present invention includes: a step part for arranging a slide rail formed on a roof side rail; a pillar that is joined to the roof side rail in the vicinity of a standing wall that constitutes a front end part of the step part; and a roof arch that is joined to the roof side rail together with the pillar in the vicinity of the standing wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kosaku Tomozawa
  • Patent number: 7267396
    Abstract: A removable storage module assembly configured for securement to the headliner in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The headliner includes a storage module receiving area formed therein having a securement portion disposed proximate the receiving area. A storage module having a housing, a fastener associated with the housing configured to engage the securement portion and a storage area defined in the housing is removably positioned in the storage module receiving area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Neil A. Schultz, Roy C. Thorsell
  • Patent number: 7267397
    Abstract: There is provided an open roof construction for a vehicle having a closure means (4) of which at least one of its forward and rearward edges is movable by a guide mechanism. The guide mechanism comprises a stationary guiding (7), a slide (12) engaging said guiding and a link member (16) that in a sliding and hingeable manner engages the stationary guiding, such that when the slide (12) moves the respective edge of the closure means (4) not only moves along with the slide but also is moved away or towards the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.
    Inventors: Robert Joseph Boutin, Todd Andrew Sieting
  • Patent number: 7267398
    Abstract: A guiding assembly is provided comprising a guide channel with two opposite guide surfaces and a slide shoe positioned in the guide channel and cooperating with said two guide surfaces, wherein the guide channel comprises at least one curved section and wherein the slide shoe has an oblong shape. At least in the vicinity of its curved section the guiding assembly comprises an additional guide channel for cooperation with an additional slide shoe connected to the primary slide shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.
    Inventors: Frank Hendricus Gerardus Van De Logt, Marcel Johan Christiaan Nellen
  • Patent number: 7267399
    Abstract: A motion assembly is provided for moving a number of panels between a coplanar position in which the panels are positioned adjacent each other and extend in the same plane, and a stacked position in which the panels are positioned one on top of the other. Each panel at each of its longitudinal sides is provided with a forward guide pin and a rearward guide pin which are guidingly housed in guides extending in parallel to said longitudinal sides. The guide for the forward guide pin ends in a first inclined guide section enclosing an angle with the remainder of said guide. The guide for the rearward guide pin ends in a second correspondingly inclined guide section enclosing an angle with the remainder of said guide. The distance between the first inclined guide section and the second inclined guide section substantially corresponds with the distance between the forward and rearward guide pins. Connecting devices are provided for connecting each panel with an adjacent panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.
    Inventor: Erwin Jacobus Christian Leonardus Hermsen
  • Patent number: 7267400
    Abstract: A folding tray assembly is provided and includes a support member and a tray member, whereby the tray member is pivotably supported by the support member and moveable relative thereto between a use position and a stowed position. The folding tray assembly further includes a locking mechanism operable to selectively lock the tray member to the support member in one of either the use position or the stowed position. The locking mechanism is housed within the tray member such that the mechanism is not visible or accessible by an occupant, but rather remotely actuated by a handle or lever. In addition, the tray assembly eliminates external supports by providing support within the tray member, thereby providing an open space below the tray member and giving the tray assembly a generally L-shape in the use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: E & E Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L Cutshall, Joseph L Parker, Lawrence A Scott, John E Carlson
  • Patent number: 7267401
    Abstract: A seat for a two-wheeled vehicle comprising a relatively soft saddle support for a rider where the saddle support has a longitudinal direction axis and a cross direction axis as well as a supporting structure connecting the saddle support to a seat-carrying upright of the vehicle. A longitudinal oscillatable pin is provided between the upright and the supporting structure, where the oscillatable pin has a longitudinally extends substantially along a full extension of the longitudinal axis of the saddle support to allow the saddle support to oscillate about said longitudinal axis of said saddle support. A means is provided for preventing the oscillatable pin from oscillating and thereby preventing the oscillation of the saddle support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Pietro Bertelloni
  • Patent number: 7267402
    Abstract: A monitor adapted for mounting in an automobile headrest is provided. A screen structure of the monitor is pivotable about an upper edge thereof, such that the monitor occupies little volume within the headrest. A viewing angle of the screen structure is independently adjustable by a viewer, such that the viewer can continuously select the optimum viewing angle with changing conditions inside the automobile. The screen structure automatically retracts into a housing when struck. Thus, the monitor poses little risk of injury to passengers. The housing of the monitor is attachable to the headrest with screws, which provides a very sturdy connection and reduces the chances of the housing becoming detached from the headrest during a vehicle collision. The hinged connection between the screen structure and the housing is preferably constructed of interconnected components made from sturdy materials, such as metals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Safety, Inc.
    Inventor: Chung L. Chang