Abstract: A reinforced frame having a roof member and a pillar includes a brace interconnected to the frame. The brace is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The deployed position is defined by the brace extending diagonally between the pillar and the roof member.

Abstract: A steering wheel retracting device includes a steering wheel of a vehicle, and a moving device for moving the steering wheel relative to the vehicle to selectively move the steering wheel away from a vehicle driver when a car accident is happened. A cylinder housing may be attached to the vehicle, and a shaft is engaged through the cylinder housing for coupling the steering wheel to the front wheels of the vehicle. A piston rod is slidably engaged onto the shaft and has a piston slidably engaged in the cylinder housing, and an actuator is coupled to the cylinder housing for selectively moving the piston relative to the cylinder housing to retract the steering wheel away from the vehicle driver.

Abstract: A height adjuster (100) adapted for use with a seat belt system, the height adjuster including: a lock bar (110) having a lock side (116) with optional teeth (116a) and an opposing side (118); a lock lever (120) having an opening (122) therethrough, the lock bar receivable through the opening, a portion of the lock lever proximate the opening (122) configured as a lock edge (128) engagable with the lock side of the lock bar (110), the lock lever (120) movable between a disengaged position in which the lock edge is disengaged from the lock side and an engaged position in which the lock edge is engaged with the lock side of the lock bar; a clutch and actuator assembly (200) movably mounted to the lock bar and configured to move the lock lever between the disengaged position and the engaged position upon relative movement between the assembly (200) and the lock lever (120), the assembly (200) including a clutch portion (210) and an actuator portion (202).

Abstract: A belt tensioner for a safety belt system has a drive unit and a power transmission element, which engages on a drive element when the drive unit is activated. The power transmission element is a non-rigid medium.

Abstract: An inexpensive automatic bookmark is provided, wherein the bookmark is made out of a unitary piece of material that is folded and coupled to itself to form the bookmark. The automatic bookmark has a body, a pair of attachment points for attaching to the covers of a book, and a placeholding arm that inserts and removes itself into the marked place in a book when the book is closed and opened, respectively. The bookmark is automatic in that once it is attached to the covers of a book, the bookmark functions to mark and unmark the location in the book by the mere closing and opening of the book.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a label (20) for a blister pack. In particular, it relates to a label which makes it more difficult for a child to release a medicament from the blister pack without making it unduly difficult for the elderly or infirm to remove the medicament. We describe a medicament blister pack label comprising a first sheet having first and second faces and a second sheet (22) having first and second faces, wherein the first face of the second sheet and the second face of the first sheet are opposed and bonded together; wherein at least portions of the first face of the first sheet are provided with a permanent adhesive (24); and wherein the sheet includes lines of weakness (30) defining medicament release zones.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a security element for securing valuable articles, having an optically variable layer (20) that imparts different color impressions at different viewing angles. According to the present invention, in a covering area (32), a semi-transparent ink layer (34) is disposed on top of the optically variable layer (20), the color impression of the optically variable layer (20) being coordinated with the color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer (34) in the covering area (32) when viewed under predefined viewing conditions.

Abstract: A security image embedded in an original printed document survives a conversion process into an image replacement document in binary image form having a commercial equivalency with the original printed document. The security image is embedded in a background at an approximately common visual density with the background so that the security image is at least partially indistinguishable from the background to the naked eye. Print elements of the security image are arranged differently than the print elements of the background and both are further arranged so that that upon conversion into the image replacement document in binary image form, the security image survives and the background drops out.

Abstract: A coupling a hose end, including a hose barb defining a sanitary passage between an inner end securable to the hose and an outer end securable to a sanitary line, at least two malleable hose grips each defining a partially cylindrical segment having an outer diameter tapered from one end to the other, and an outer sleeve defining a central truncated conical passage which is tapered from one end to the other end to match the outer diameter taper of the hose grips. One end of each of the hose grips extends beyond the inner end of the hose barb to also surround a portion of the hose which is not over the hose barb inner end. A method of assembling the coupling uses a retaining sleeve which works in conjunction with the outer sleeve to hold and bias the hose grip against the hose as well as to release the hose grips during disassembly.

Abstract: A pipe fitting is made of plastic, such as polysulphone PSU or polyphenylsul-phone PPSU. At least one end of the pipe fitting (1) comprises an external thread (2) for connecting the pipe fitting (1) to a mounting element, such as a pipe or a mounting piece, e.g. a tap. The thread (2) comprises a ridge (3). Between the ridges (3) there is a continuous helical groove (4). On the bottom of the groove (4) between the ridges (3) of the thread (2) there are protrusions (5).

Abstract: A joint part including a welding portion having excellent weldability with a rim of an opening of a fuel resin tank as well as a high barrier property on its interface. The joint part has a multi-layer structure including a barrier layer and at least one of an inner layer and an outer layer coaxially laminated on an inner periphery and/or an outer periphery of the barrier layer, respectively, wherein the barrier layer is formed by a compound material composed of one or more of fuel permeation-resistant resin, such as EVOH, PA, polyester or LCP, and polyethylene, while the inner layer and the outer layer are composed of HDPE or modified HDPE.

Abstract: A pipe system includes first and second pipes having first and second ends welded together forming a girth-weld and a corrosion coating covering the girth-weld. In addition, a flexible sheet is provided to cover the girth-weld. The flexible sheet comprises a first structured layer that mechanically couples to the corrosion coating, where the corrosion coating permeates a substantial portion of the first structured layer. The flexible sheet also includes a second layer comprising a polymer layer adhered to the first layer, the second layer protecting the corrosion coating from mechanical or environmental damage. Alternatively, the protective cover comprises a polymer material and includes a port formed therethrough adapted to receive a delivery mechanism that delivers a corrosion coating to the girth-weld.

Abstract: The invention relates to a joining arrangement for connecting a pipe to a system, especially a hydraulic clutch disengagement system. The joining arrangement comprises a joining member which can be fixed to a final section of the pipe and is to be connected to an opposite piece that is fastened to the system. The joining member positively embraces at least one radially prominent protrusion of the pipe for fastening purposes.

Abstract: A fluid connector body having a throughbore carries an insert forming first and second flow paths through the body to fluidically couple first and second coaxial flow paths in a first endform to third and fourth coaxial flow paths in a second endform when both of the endforms are coupled to the body. A retainer latches the first endform to body. The sealed coupling of the first flow path in the first endform to the insert is concentrically within the second flow path through the body such that any liquid or vapor escaping from the sealed coupling is contained within the second flow path.

Abstract: A pipe joint restraint (16) includes a pocket (74) having a fulcrum (92) a fixed distance from the centerline (26) of an annular retaining gland (22) and about which a gripping element (76) pivots to move a gripping edge (75) toward the centerline (26) so as to grip a pipe (14) engaged by the gripping element (76) in response to thrust forces on the pipe (14). The length of gripping edge (75) is selected for the material of pipe (14). Adjustable element (78) operatively connects to the gripping element (76) and fulcrum (92) to pivot with the gripping element (76). Adjustable element (78) and may be torqued to a common, predetermined torque whether the pipe (14) is metal or polymeric.

Abstract: A fluid coupling having an outer housing with an internal bore, an O-ring fitted within the bore, a spacer bushing fitted against the O-ring, a gripper ring fitted against the axially outer side of the spacer ring, the gripper ring having axially and radially inwardly protruding circumferentially spaced gripping teeth, and an end bushing holding the gripper ring, spacer bushing, and O-ring within the outer housing. A second gripper ring and a second spacer ring are used in some embodiments.

Abstract: A universal nipple for securement of a wall-mountable structure to a mounting surface is provided. The nipple includes a shank having an elongate body of predefined length that terminates in opposed proximate and distal ends. The proximate end has an enlarged head portion through which an opening is defined, and the distal end has engagement means defined thereat for engagement with the mounting surface. The body has a generally circumferential outer surface and an inner surface defining a tapering lumen that is coextensive with the proximate and distal ends. The engagement means comprises at least one, and preferably plural, series of threads defined along the outer circumferential surface with grooves distributed intermittently therebetween. The body is easily truncated along a selective groove so as to accommodate mounting surfaces of varying thicknesses and establish fluid communication between a wall-mountable fluid delivery device and plumbing structure provided at or adjacent the mounting surface.

Abstract: SP-A/C-GS is unique in its self-powering capability, while providing an A/C power supply from a D/C power source.

Abstract: A voltage adjusting circuit prevents damage to an electrical component having no over-voltage protecting circuit when a battery is removed. An LED tail light is connected to an over-voltage protecting circuit of a CDI unit. Electric power is supplied from a power supply control section to the CDI unit and is also supplied to the LED tail light through the over-voltage protecting circuit. Thereby, the over-voltage protecting circuit of the CDI unit protects the LED tail light from an over-voltage condition.

Abstract: A submersible turbine apparatus including first and second buoyant turbine units that are connected to each other side by side, and laterally apart from each other. Each turbine unit can include turbine blades that are rotatably mounted about an elongate stationary axle. A lower elongate sealed chamber can be centrally connected to the first and second turbine units below the stationary axles in a manner to provide a center of gravity centrally positioned below the laterally spaced buoyant first and second turbine units to stabilize the turbine apparatus when submersed.

Abstract: A fluid flow energy capture device for power generation has a rotor with a substantially vertical axis and a plurality of vanes. A mount for the rotor allows the rotor to rotate in response to fluid flow such as wind contacting the plurality of vanes, and the mount puts the rotor in rotationally driving communication with a generator. The rotor has an open center which allows fluid communication from spaces between the vanes to above the rotor. A plurality of guide surfaces define channels that bias fluid flow to be tangential to the rotor.

Abstract: A door lock for an oven includes a lock housing, a geared motor, an actuating shaft to be driven by the geared motor, a retaining plate and a locking element formed as a lever to be operated by the actuating shaft. The lever is mounted on the retaining plate and has a lever axle for reversibly changing location relative to the lock housing. A spring exerts a force being overcome in an emergency-unlocking function permitting adjustment of the retaining plate to allow opening of the lever having been previously brought into a locking position by the actuating shaft, without further operation of the actuating shaft. The actuating shaft is adjustable along its axis by the lever having been unlocked in an emergency.

Abstract: A vehicle door checker is provided that includes a housing attachable to a vehicle door, an arm having a first portion attachable to the vehicle, and wherein a second portion of the arm moves through the housing when the door is moved. The door checker also includes at least one slider held within the housing that is in sliding contact with the second portion of the arm inside of the housing. At least one biasing member is held within the housing, the biasing member biasing the slider against the second portion of the arm. A water management dam provides a barrier in the housing such that water is prevented from accumulating within the housing and freezing, wherein such freezing would cause damage to the housing and/or prevent the biasing member and slider from moving.

Abstract: A latch and latch striker interface including a latch striker which has a contoured bridge configured for insertion into and engagement with the fishmouth of a latch body, at least one wall in the fishmouth being at least partially flexible and flexed or deformed by contact with a contoured or protruding profile of the latch striker bridge for an anti-vibration and anti-chucking interface between the latch striker and latch. A fitted plug attached to the latch striker is configured for partial insertion into the fishmouth of the latch body when the latch striker is engaged with the latch.

Abstract: A spindle liner including an axial sleeve having an axial length and an inner bore for receiving a stock piece is provided. The spindle liner further includes fins extending radially outward from the axial sleeve for supporting the axial sleeve within a spindle. Each fin extends along the axial length of the spindle liner. The spindle liner may be extruded from a high density material such as high density polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or nylon and molybdenum disulfide. The spindle liner may further include an retaining flange attached to a distal end of the spindle liner.

Abstract: An article for protecting an automobile body is stored within the automobile body by electric power when the automobile body does not need to be protected. A device stores the article within the automobile body by electric power. The article for protecting the automobile body is mounted to a second article formed of the same material as the automobile body. The device operates the article into a state in which it protects the automobile body primarily when the automobile is parked. The device stores the article for protecting the automobile body when the automobile is running.

Abstract: A power operated pick-up tool comprises a hollow handle and a battery operated motor received in the handle for imparting a rotary motion driving force through an output gear, a gear reduction assembly reducing the speed of the rotation of the output gear before transmitting the rotational force to a nut and screw assembly which converts the rotational motion into a linear motion of the nut, an elongate hollow stalk having a distal end and a proximal end attached to the handle, and a clamping assembly attached to the distal end of the stalk and the nut of the nut and screw assembly such that the clamping assembly can be operated to grasp an object or release a grasped object upon actuation of the motor.

Abstract: A carrying device for bottle has a pair of hinged arms, one of which has a collar formed on it for receiving a beverage bottle neck, and the other of which has a pinch cam which engages the neck of the bottle, locking it within the collar, when the arms are squeezed together.

Abstract: A vacuum tube lift device includes a lifting tube (1), the lifting tube (1) having a first end (2) for attachment of the lifting tube (1) and a second end (5) for connection to a means (6) for coupling the lifting tube (1) to a load (7). The lifting tube (1) is adapted for connection to a vacuum source (3) and is extendable and retractable in order to achieve an extending or retracting movement of the lifting tube (1) for movement of a load (7) by means of regulating the pressure inside the lifting tube (1).

Abstract: Method and apparatus for elevated storage of articles including application of a spring clutch winch to provide the required lifting and holding forces. In preferred embodiments, the apparatus includes a spring clutch winch, one or more elongate elements payed out from and, alternatively, wound onto the winch, at least one rotational support supporting each elongate element and a hanger secured to an elongate element end. The article to be stored can be raised by winding each elongate element onto the spring clutch winch and can be lowered by unwinding the line from the spring clutch winch. Use of a spring clutch winch for this storage application provides a highly effective yet simple and cost effective manner of raising and lowering the article and securely holding the article in an elevated position.

Abstract: A gripper assembly has an extended position and a retracted position. The gripper assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw that are each coupled for movement of a range of motion. The range of motion of each of the first jaw and the second jaw is independently adjustable from the range of motion of the other of the first jaw and the second jaw.

Abstract: This invention relates to a pneumatically controlled finger gripper that comprises a supporting body (111) forming a chamber a fixed axial rod (119) secured to a proximal part of the body, extending in said chamber and emerging from a distal part of said body, a compression disk (113) connected to the fixed rod. A pneumatic control piston (112) is guided along the axial rod and moves in said chamber (115) with respect to the compression disk (113) between an inactive position, at a distance from the compression disk, and a forward active position, near the compression disk, A flexible gripper element (114) is mounted between the compression disk (113) and control piston (112) and moving between a contracted and expanded positions in response to the movements of the control piston between the inactive and active positions of the compression disk.

Abstract: A file carrying device includes a carrying assembly having a plurality of connecting boxes connected with each other, and a plurality of files mounted on a respective one of the connecting boxes of the carrying assembly. Thus, each of the files is locked on and detached from the respective connecting box of the carrying assembly, so that each of the files is arranged easily and conveniently, thereby facilitating a user arranging each of the files. In addition, each of the files contains documents therein so that the each of the files can protect the documents to prevent the documents from being missed.

Abstract: A swing-out tool chest provides a multi-drawer tool storage chest for organization of tools. The multi-drawer tool storage chest is pivotally mounted in the rear corner of the pickup bed or near the rear doors of a utility van. When not in use, the swing-out tool chest nestles against the side of the vehicle between the tailgate (or rear doors of a utility van) and the wheel well. To gain access to the tools, the operator opens the tailgate and swings the swing-out tool chest toward the rear of the bed. The tools are easily accessible and, in the case of a pickup, the tail gate provides a convenient work area. The present invention further includes a method of converting a commercially available locking tool storage chest to a swing-out tool chest mounted in a pickup bed, van, utility truck, or other vehicle.

Abstract: The specification discloses a debris deflector for occupying a gap disposed between, and having a shape and a width at least partially defined by, an automobile seat and an adjacent console. The deflector consists essentially of a resiliently deformable material and has a width greater than the width of the gap. The deflector is capable of reversible compressible conformation to the shape of the gap so as to obstruct the passage of objects into the gap. The specification further discloses a method for using such a debris deflector.

Abstract: An umbrella holder for a vehicle is provided, comprising a tube for receiving a collapsed umbrella, wherein the tube may be integrated into an end portion of an instrument panel. The tube may be angled downward and vented for drainage to the outside at a lower end. The upper end of the tube may cooperate with a depression in the adjacent door panel to allow the handle of the umbrella to protrude from the end of the instrument panel for relatively easy access when the vehicle door is opened.

Abstract: In a seat and a maneuvering cabin for telescopic lifts, the seat comprises means for translating, predisposed to translate the seat forwards and backwards along a determined translation direction, and means for rotating, predisposed to rotate the seat about a rotation axis. The maneuvering cabin comprises: a frame for containing and supporting the cabin; at least a transparent front surface which is solidly constrained to the frame, through which an operator can observe outside the cabin in a frontal direction; a roof comprising a transparent portion, which transparent portion is contiguous to the front surface, through which an operator can observe outside the maneuvering cabin in an upwards direction through a predetermined angle of vision, and a non-transparent reinforced portion which is contiguous to the transparent portion; a maneuvering seat located internally of the frame and positioned below the reinforced portion of the roof facing the front surface.

Abstract: An improved door and drawer assembly for use with a seat on a passenger vehicle. The door and drawer assembly are installed in the passenger vehicle independent of the seat and thus not physically connected to the seat frame. Any load that is applied to the seat frame during movement of the vehicle or caused by passenger movement or support is not imposed on the door and drawer assembly. Accordingly, the operation of the door and drawer assembly is not adversely affected by the loads imposed on the seat frame. Alternatively, the drawer assembly can be excluded so that the door assembly can provide access to an area under the seat in which emergency equipment, such as a life raft bag assembly and life vests, can be stored.

Abstract: An opening and closing device includes an electrically conductive fixed body, a movable body, a drive motor, a speed control device, a detection assembly, and a determining device. The electrically conductive fixed body defines an opening portion therein. The movable body is displaceable between a full closed position and a full open position. The drive motor drives the movable body to open and close the opening portion of the fixed body. The detection assembly includes a sensor electrode. The determining device computes, as a detection value, a change amount of the capacitance at the sensor electrode per a predetermined constant measuring time based on the change of the capacitance detected by the sensor electrode. The determining device compares the detection value with a constant threshold value, and determines whether the object exists between the movable body and the periphery of the opening portion based on the comparison result.

Abstract: A weather panel apparatus for attachment to a vehicle, which apparatus includes a panel retraction frame having a typically spring-loaded roller rotatably mounted by means of roller pins in the frame and a flexible panel having one end attached to the roller and the opposite end of the panel fitted with one or more suction cups. The flexible panel is typically capable of flexure both in the lateral and longitudinal directions and may be extended from the panel retraction frame against spring tension and retracted in the panel retraction frame by spring action. The panel retraction frame is secured above the door frame inside a vehicle, typically by a loop-pile fastener, such that the flexible panel can be extended from the panel retraction frame and attached to the door window of the vehicle by means of the suction cup or cups.

Abstract: A vehicle frame component, such as a siderail or a cross member, is formed with a generally C-shaped cross section in which the vertical web member has a greatly reduced mass, as compared to a comparable C-channel section of uniform construction. The reduced mass web member has a corresponding reduced effective cross section to substantially reduce the component weight without adversely affecting its vertical stiffness.

Abstract: A reinforcement piece (10?) for a motor vehicle bodywork element made of plastics material, including an empty space (20) for receiving electrical equipment (22), and means (16) for securing a metal plate (21), preferably by snap-fastening, said means being arranged on the reinforcement piece in such a manner as to hold said plate beneath the empty space.

Abstract: A furniture item includes a support member and a rotatably pinned mechanism operable in rocking and reclining motions. The mechanism includes first and second side plates; a first pair of forward link members each rotatably connected to one of the side plates; a pantograph linkage set connected to the first pair of forward link members to extend and retract a footrest assembly in the reclining motion; and a drive rod rotatable between the side plates. Rotating the drive rod extends or retracts the pantograph linkage set. An escutcheon connected to the drive rod has a snap-engaged handle to manually rotate the drive rod. At least one U-shaped spring connected between the support member and the mechanism allows rocking motion. A seat pan has flat body springs extending over a seat pan aperture to support an occupant. A detent at one end of each flat spring engages the seat pan.

Abstract: A furniture system includes a desk having an upper surface and a pair of opposed depending ground-engaging side walls, at least one of the side walls defining means for storing books or the like. An overlay overlying the desk top provides a surface for erasable writing thereon. At least one bench is stowable beneath the desk top. The bench provides a storage area and a non-tiltable seat for at least one child by providing an area in which a child's feet can be emplaced and confined. When not used as a seat, the seating member can be rotated from a horizontal to a vertical position to expose a further stowage chamber. Optimally, a second seat can be secured to the exterior of the bench.

Abstract: A table and seating arrangement includes a tabletop defining a longitudinal direction and having an edge. A frame mounts to an underside of the tabletop and includes risers and laterally extending portions. Casters or wheels mount to the frame and provide for easy rolling transport of the table and seating arrangement. Seating assemblies having two stools mount to the framework on linkages that provide for moving the seats from a use position with the seats extended beyond the edge of the tabletops and engaging the ground to a storage position wherein the seats are raised and retracted to be inward from the edges of the tabletop.

Abstract: A conduit for a climate controlled seat assembly. A first port is at a first end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage. A second port is at a second end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage, An attachment device comprising a base that is coupled to the body and a strap that is configured to be wrapped around a wire bundle and be secured to the base.

Abstract: A headrest for a vehicle seat includes a stationary support part, and an impact element which can be moved relative to the latter. The impact element is mounted on the support part via a lever system which can be at least partially decoupled, so that it permits different sequences of movement between impact element and the support part.

Abstract: An anti-whiplash device attaches to existing vehicle head restraints and provides an elastic pocket or cavity in which impact absorbing pads are placed. The pads may be pre-sized so that the thickness of the additional impact absorbing material can be easily determined. The use of the impact absorbing pads reduces the distance from the head of a vehicle driver or passenger to the head restraint while in a normal driving or riding position so that the driver's or passenger's head does not travel a significant distance before being cushioned by the head restraint in the event of an accident.

Abstract: A haptic seat and system for use in imparting sensations to an occupant thereof. The haptic seat may be used to alert passengers of various operating conditions with some sort of tactile sensation, such as a vibration, pulse, shake, or other inducement that involves the occupant's sense of touch.

Abstract: A child travel restraint system having a child safety seat adapted to be removably connected to a vehicle seat and a supplemental child restraint adapted to be stowed with the child safety seat, with the supplemental child restraint further adapted to be separated from the child safety seat and removably fastened to a vehicle passenger seat, and a method of providing a child restraint when traveling by land vehicle and by aircraft within a given trip.