Patents Issued in January 29, 2008
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Patent number: 7322586Abstract: A cart for supporting cargo thereon has wheels at one end and a handle at an opposite end to allow the cart to be transported manually on a ground surface. The cart has an upper bracket and a pair of laterally spaced lower brackets on one of its sides for mounting the cart to a three-point hitch mechanism, and/or a pair of fork lift brackets to allow the cart to be lifted from the ground surface and transported over the ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Daniel M. Zettel
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Patent number: 7322587Abstract: A liftable independent suspension system which may also be steerable. In a described embodiment, a liftable suspension system for use on a vehicle includes wheel spindles positioned to extend outwardly at each respective lateral side of the vehicle. The spindles are displaceable independent of each other. An actuator is operable to raise at least one of the spindles, so that a tire rotatably connected to the spindle is liftable out of engagement with a road surface when the actuator raises the spindle.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Watson & Chalin Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Thomas N. Chalin, Cully B. Dodd, Herbert D. Hudson
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Patent number: 7322588Abstract: A mounting assembly for a steering system of a vehicle includes a tubular boss for operative connection to a steering gear of the steering system and a tubular sleeve disposed within the tubular boss for operative connection to a frame of the vehicle. The mounting assembly also includes a conductive bushing disposed between the tubular sleeve and the tubular boss to allow electrical grounding of the steering gear to the frame of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: John J. Vandaele
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Patent number: 7322589Abstract: A stabilizer assembly for a motor vehicle, including a first stabilizer and a second stabilizer, which are rotatable relative to each other, is characterized in that each stabilizer is engaged by one linear actuator each.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbHInventors: Dirk Kesselgruber, Martin Boecker
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Patent number: 7322590Abstract: The lower side of a fuel tank positioned above a torsion beam is downwardly convexly formed, and the torsion beam is also downwardly convexly bent in correspondence to the lower side of the fuel tank, thereby providing a sufficient capacity of the fuel tank and space for allowing the torsion beam to smoothly operate therein.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.Inventor: Gyoung-Tae Kye
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Patent number: 7322591Abstract: In a vehicle suspension system, suspension arms are attached to the right and left sides of a vehicle body frame, a knuckle is attached to the ends of the suspension arms, a front shock absorber is provided between the vehicle body frame and the suspension arm on each side of the frame, and a stabilizer bar is provided extending between the right and left suspension arms. The stabilizer bar extends between rigid right and left shock support members provided on the ends of the suspension arms. The rigid shock support members are coupled to the knuckle, and also support the lower ends of the front shock absorbers. Costs of the suspension system are reduced by providing the rigid support member in combination with the stabilizer bar, since the shape of a suspension arm can be simplified without requiring particular increase in rigidity.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Bunzo Seki
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Patent number: 7322592Abstract: An aerodynamic coasting bicycle and method of use are disclosed. In one form, an aerodynamic cycling apparatus includes a main frame including a rear wheel mount and a front wheel mount. The main frame includes a light-weight material and a front wheel is coupled to the front wheel mount. A front wheel cover substantially covers an interior portion of the front wheel. A gearless rear wheel is coupled to the rear wheel mount and includes a rear wheel cover substantially covering an interior portion of the rear wheel.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventors: Nalan A. Francis, Marilyn S. Francis
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Patent number: 7322593Abstract: A running board for a passenger car or light truck is assembled from an upper molded thermoplastic section or component having a Class A automotive finish and a lower component or section having reinforcing ribs and mounting brackets. The upper section includes three layers: a paint film having a Class A automotive finish, a thin layer of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and a thick layer of polypropylene. The lower section is homogeneous and may be a plastic such as TPO, polypropylene or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), for example, which may contain chopped, randomly oriented glass reinforcing fibers. The two sections are secured to one another about their peripheries by autogenous bonding.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Durakon Industries, Inc.Inventors: Leslie E. Smith, Vincent B. Rocheleau, John C. Montagna, Thomas G. Sierakowski
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Patent number: 7322594Abstract: A draw coupling arrangement (1) for a vehicle including a coupling jaw (2) and a coupler (4) which can be lifted by a lifting device (5). The coupler is intended for coupling together with a towing eye on a towed vehicle, and where the coupling means (4) consists of a coupling bolt with two towing sections (6a, 6b), where the towing sections (6a, 6b) have different diameters.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Benny Liljeblad, Hans Regnell, Jens Gustafsson
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Patent number: 7322595Abstract: A fastening arrangement for an airbag module in motor vehicles wherein the gas generator is fastened by means of at least one stay bolt and nut screwed thereupon. The bolt is designed for the gas generator and penetrating through at least one hole of a retaining member that serves for mounting the airbag module and fastening to a vehicle part. An electrical insulating shell and washer are arranged between the gas generator and the retaining member to prevent spurious voltage signals from communicating with the gas generator, which can lead to inadvertent airbag deployment.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Autoliv Development ABInventors: Rainer Wallentin, Ernst Wittmann
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Patent number: 7322596Abstract: In airbag apparatus mounted on a vehicle, a folded shape of an airbag is held by an airbag-holding member disposed over an outer surface of the airbag, and is housed in a retainer. The airbag-holding member is made of a translucent film sheet, in which a plurality of resin layers is stacked in a thickness direction. The folded shape of the airbag can be visually confirmed.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventor: Wataru Nakazawa
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Patent number: 7322597Abstract: In at least certain embodiments, the vehicle seat assembly comprises a frame, a seat pad, a trim cover extending over the seat pad and including a first and second end portion forming a release seam adjacent the seat pad, and an air bag assembly within the trim cover. In accordance with this embodiment, the air bag assembly includes an inflator and an air bag inflatable to project outwardly from the seat through the air bag release seam of the trim cover. Further in accordance with this embodiment, the vehicle seat assembly further includes an air bag guide including an inner panel and an outer panel, a first connector connected to the first and second end portions of the trim cover, and a second connector connected to outer panels.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Michael L. Tracht
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Patent number: 7322598Abstract: Set of equipment (1) for a motor vehicle includes an inflatable structure (2), a support (4) for the inflatable structure, elements for (6) inflating the structure in a direction of inflation (D) in order to deploy it, a plate (8) for spreading the load when an occupant of the vehicle impacts on the deployed inflatable structure, and elements for guiding the structure as it deploys so that, in the deployed configuration, the structure extends along a median directrix line (L) distinct from its direction of inflation (D). The guide elements include the side wall (12) of the structure which, in the deployed configuration, is substantially taut.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignees: Faurecia Industries, SNPE Materiaux EnergetiquesInventors: Etienne Galmiche, Eric Laspesa, Laurent D'Emmanuelle
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Patent number: 7322599Abstract: A knee bag to be inflated upwardly from below in front of legs of a vehicle occupant includes an upper part constituting a constant width portion having a substantially constant lateral width, and a lower part below the constant width portion having a lateral width decreasing toward a lower end. Tethers extending laterally are provided vertically in the knee bag in multistage, and an upper tether has a longer lateral length. Vent spaces are formed between respective lateral ends of the tethers and lateral edges of the knee bag. The uppermost tether is located in the vicinity of or above a boundary between the constant width portion and a narrow width portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Abe, Masayoshi Kumagai, Yoshiki Murakami
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Patent number: 7322600Abstract: A head-protecting airbag of the present invention includes an airbag body having a gas admissive portion for covering side windows upon deployment, and a belt for pulling a lower part of the airbag body toward exterior of vehicle during deployment. The gas admissive portion includes an initially inflatable portion located along upper edge of the airbag body, and a protective portion located at side of an occupant's head. The protective portion includes a main cell that inflates thickly when a temporary joint joining the inner wall and the outer wall is separated. The airbag body folded together with the belt and housed above the windows is provided, in the initially inflatable portion, with a folded and piled portion folded and piled in vertical direction, and below the folded and piled portion, with a roll-folded portion rolled toward exterior of vehicle from lower edge side.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Michio Inoue, Toshinori Tanase
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Patent number: 7322601Abstract: An apparatus (10) helps to protect an occupant of a vehicle (12) that has a roof (18), a side structure (16), and a trim piece (310) overlying the side structure. The apparatus (10) includes an inflatable curtain (14) inflatable away from the vehicle roof (18) to a position adjacent the side structure (16). The apparatus (10) also includes a deployment ramp (160) having a deployment position in which the deployment ramp directs the inflatable curtain (14) to deploy inboard of the trim piece (310). The deployment ramp (160) is configured and arranged to deflect away from the deployment position in order to absorb forces from occupant impacts with the deployment ramp. Preferably, the deployment ramp (160) is also configured and arranged to return to the deployment position after absorbing forces from occupant impacts with the deployment ramp when the inflatable curtain (14) is not inflated.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.Inventor: Rico Scott Bertossi
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Patent number: 7322602Abstract: A horn switch device includes a retractable body, an unmoving body, first and second biasing members for biasing the retractable body in a restoring direction, and first and second contact members. The contact members are attached to, and move with, the retractable body, and are capable of contacting each other by movement of the retractable body. The first biasing member pushes the first contact member and the second contact member apart. The second biasing member pushes the second contact member toward the first contact member. When a module cover is depressed, the biasing members are compressed to bring the contact members into contact with each other, thereby sounding the horn. Since the biasing members are arranged in series, vehicle vibration can be absorbed, thereby preventing accidental contact of the contact members. The device facilitates positioning of the contact members, thereby simplifying assembly of a steering wheel and an airbag system.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventors: Kei Tsujimoto, Wataru Nakazawa
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Patent number: 7322603Abstract: A seat belt system, in one form, includes a buckle anchored along the side of the seat, a tongue slidably mounted on the seat belt for being latched in the buckle to define the shoulder and lap belt portions, and a retractor for pay in and pay out of the seat belt into and out from the retractor. The airbag is fixed to the tongue and configured for sliding along the seat belt so that with the tongue latched in the buckle the airbag extends along the same position irrespective of the size of the occupant. Alternatively, the airbag is fixed to a guide loop adjacent to the shoulder of the occupant and configured to allow for sliding of the seat belt relative thereto so that with the tongue latched in the buckle the airbag extends from the same position and across the occupant's torso irrespective of the size of the occupant.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata Seat Belts, Inc.Inventors: Mark F. Gray, Ahad M. Zadeh, Chris Hall, Robert F. Rogers
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Patent number: 7322604Abstract: A gas generator is arranged in a vacant space around the seat to achieve effective utilization of a space for the seat. An inflatable seat bag is arranged above a seat pan. A seat cushion is installed above the seat bag. A gas introduction port is provided at a longitudinal end (the side of a side frame) of the seat bag, and a gas supply duct from a manifold at a distal end of an inflator is connected to the gas introduction port. The gas supply duct is disposed along the lower side of an S-spring. The inflator is mounted to a spindle with a bracket. A distal end of a gas introduction duct is connected to an end portion of a lap bag on the side of an anchor. A proximal end of the duct is connected to another gas outlet of the manifold.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventors: Yasuo Itoga, Yoshiki Murakami
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Patent number: 7322605Abstract: A seat track assembly for a seat of a motor vehicle having a floor and an airbag. The seat track assembly includes a stationary rail fixedly secured to the floor. The seat track assembly also includes a movable rail fixedly secured to the seat and slidably engaged with the stationary rail to move the seat therealong. The movable rail extends along a length between a forward position and a rearward position. A shunt defining an elongated body extends along a portion of the length of the movable rail. A sensor is fixedly secured to the stationary rail and disposed adjacent the shunt to produce a position signal indicating a position of the sensor relative to the shunt. The sensor and the shunt are disposed within the stationary and movable rails to be protected thereby.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.Inventors: Kevin John Ventura, Stephen P. Tokarz
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Patent number: 7322606Abstract: An occupant protection apparatus includes a cover sheet adapted to be fed out from a peripheral edge of a window of a vehicle, when a pulling unit is activated, so as to cover the window. The pulling unit includes a pulling string having flexibility and a pulling device to which the pulling string is connected so as to be pulled thereby and which is disposed below the window. When the pulling device is activated, the pulling string is pulled such that a portion thereof which extends from a fixed end to where it is supported by a support member becomes a straight line while a portion thereof which is disposed along a lower edge portion of the peripheral edge of the window is caused to rise.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Yamamura, Michio Inoue
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Patent number: 7322607Abstract: A telescopic shaft for steering of a vehicle is assembled in a steering shaft and includes a male shaft and a female shaft that are so fitted as not to be rotatable but to be slidable. Rolling members are fitted through an elastic body for pre-load between at least a pair of axially-extending grooves formed in an outer peripheral surface of the male shaft and in an inner peripheral surface of the female shaft. A slide member is fitted in between at least another pair of axially-extending grooves formed in the outer peripheral surface of the male shaft and in the inner peripheral surface of the female shaft. When a steering toque is equal to or smaller than a predetermined level, the elastic body for the pre-load exhibits a low rigidity characteristic as the elastic body performs pre-load action. When the steering torque is equal to or larger than the predetermined level, the slide member exhibits a high rigidity characteristic as the slide member engages with the pair of axially extending grooves.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Yasuhisa Yamada, Akihiro Shoda, Atsushi Ozawa, Kinji Yukawa, Takatsugu Yamada
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Patent number: 7322608Abstract: A steering column apparatus comprises a steering shaft having its rear end to which a steering wheel is secured, a steering column supporting rotatably the steering shaft and adjustable of its length in axial directions together the steering shaft, and telescopic position fixing means for fixing the steering column to a desired length. The steering column is constructed of an outer column fixed on a car body side and an inner column slidably fitted in the outer column. The telescopic position fixing means is constructed of a lock housing formed on the outer column, first and second press blocks slidably held by the lock housing and moving forwards and backwards in a way that embraces an outer peripheral surface of the inner column, and presses block driving means for bringing the first and second press-blocks into a press-contact with the inner column.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Kou Yamamoto, Daijiro Yamasaki
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Patent number: 7322609Abstract: An apparatus includes first and second steering column members disposed for movement relative to one another. The apparatus also includes an anvil associated with one of the first and second steering column members. The anvil is spaced from the other of the first and second steering column members. The apparatus also includes a strap having a mounting end fixedly associated with the other of the first and second steering column members. The strap also includes a free end spaced from the mounting end. The strap is drawable over the anvil in response to movement between the first and second steering column members. The strap also includes a slot extending away from the mounting end to the free end. The slot has a length and a variable width along at least a portion of its length.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Steven P. Finkbeiner, Yoshio Mori
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Patent number: 7322610Abstract: In a manufacturing method of a steering column apparatus for a car in which a column-side bracket attached to a steering column is brought into pressure contact with a body-side bracket attached onto the body of the car to be retained, the body-side bracket or the column-side bracket is comprised of a plurality of divided components in advance, and these plurality of divided components are connected to each other by caulking at the time of assembling, so as to assemble the body-side bracket or the column-side bracket.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Ryuuichi Ishida, Toshimichi Takano, Masaki Tomaru
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Patent number: 7322611Abstract: A seat belt-deflecting device which has a simple and cost-effective construction. The deflecting device includes at least one holding body on which a deflecting element is held. The seat belt is deflected about the deflecting axis of the deflecting element. The deflecting device also includes a belt-deflecting edge which is formed by the shaping of the holding body and about which the seat belt of the motor vehicle is additionally deflected in the direction of the vehicle occupant. The deflecting axis of the deflecting element and the deflecting edge forming an acute angle with respect to each other.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata-Petri (Ulm) GmbHInventors: Albert Bahnmaier, Jurgen Mautsch, Markus Lindau, Oliver Glinka
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Patent number: 7322612Abstract: A pole, for use in skiing or other sport, of the type that includes a grip handle at its upper end, the handle including a support extending from its side wall and adapted to cooperate with the thumb of a user, so as to constitute an additional mechanism for the axial transmission of forces, by the thumb, when the hand is closed on the handle of the pole.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Salomon S.A.Inventors: Juha Trinen, Kaarlo Hirvijarvi, Serge Vigny
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Patent number: 7322613Abstract: A multi-part form includes a printable face ply that is die cut to create a detachable wristband, labels and/or cards and is particularly useful in a hospital-patient environment. The face ply includes a first major surface and a second major surface. A pressure sensitive adhesive is located on at least a portion of one of the major surfaces. The multi-part form includes a first portion, second portion and intermediate portion. The multi-part form further includes a liner ply with first and second major surfaces where a release coating is located on at least a portion of one of major surfaces of the liner ply. The liner ply is adhered to the pressure sensitive adhesive on the face ply.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Precision Dynamic, CorporationInventors: Oswaldo Penuela, Ronald M. Fullerton
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Patent number: 7322614Abstract: A device for repairing automobile, and other vehicle, exhaust pipes that have been broken. The device comprises three major components, four sections of angle steel, four U-bolts, and two thread bolts. The angle steel sections form a trough and a cap. In use, the broken exhaust pipe lies inside the trough formed by the first two sections of angle steel and snugly nestles into the angle. The U-Bolts hold the angle steel in place and each angle steel section can move along the thread bolts. The U-Bolt is tightened where the break in the exhaust pipe exists. The U-Bolt may also be loosened to allow the two exhaust pipe pieces to be pulled apart. The device allows for a clean repair of an exhaust pipe without the need for tape, hangers, welding, or other temporary and/or inefficient measures.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Daniel Reeves
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Patent number: 7322615Abstract: An adjustable plumbing fitting is adapted to adjust a length of connection between supply and inlet pipes, and includes a sleeve member, a collar member, and a sealing member. The sleeve member includes an annular section sleeved on and threadedly engaged with the inlet pipe, and a protrusion extending radially from an outer surface of the annular section and abutting against the supply pipe. The collar member includes a tube section sleeved on and threadedly engaged with the supply pipe, and a shoulder formed radially from an inner surface of the tube section and abutting against the protrusion to thereby interpose the protrusion between the shoulder and the supply pipe. The sealing member establishes a watertight seal between the inlet and supply pipes. The sleeve member is selectively displaced on the inlet pipe to vary a depth of insertion of the inlet pipe in the supply pipe.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Chih-Chen Yen
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Patent number: 7322616Abstract: A tubing connecting device for a fluid carrying tube having a flat portion with an aperture therethrough includes a coupling body having a first port and a second port that are in fluid communication, a planar surface on the coupling body, surrounding the first port and configured to engage the flat portion of the tube with the first port in fluid communication with the aperture. A strap is affixed at both ends to the coupling body and is configured to engage the tube and hold the coupling body in place on the flat.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Mueller Gas ProductsInventor: Mark T Lang
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Patent number: 7322617Abstract: The invention provides a coupling endpiece engageable by force in a corrugated end of a corrugated tube having corrugations following one another at a predetermined pitch and possessing a minimum inside diameter and a maximum inside diameter. The endpiece is constituted by a tubular body possessing a first zone provided on the outside with at least two annular barbs of the Christmas-tree type that are spaced apart by a distance corresponding to the pitch of the corrugations of the tube and having a maximum diameter greater than the maximum inside diameter of the tube, the first zone presenting between the barbs a minimum diameter greater than the minimum inside diameter of the tube, and the body has a second zone extending immediately behind the barbs to receive at least one end corrugation of the tube and having an outside diameter less than a diameter of a junction zone between two annular barbs. The invention also provides a corrugated tube fitted with such an endpiece.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Nobel Plastiques, S.A.Inventor: Yvon Paquis
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Patent number: 7322618Abstract: A hose coupling with a clamp which can be clamped around a longitudinal axis, wherein the edges of the clamp are located closer to the longitudinal axis than an area of the clamp located between the edges. The hose coupling further includes a pipe, wherein an end portion of the hose can be pushed onto an end portion of the pipe and can be clamped by means of the clamp. The end portion of the pipe is provided with a circumferential holding rib, wherein the end portion of the hose can be pushed past the holding rib and wherein the clamp can be clamped on the hose above the holding rib so that the hose is secured between the holding rib and the clamp. The clamp includes an elastic, circular circumferential metal clamping band of uniform thickness.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbHInventors: Detlef Henrich, Mathias Krauss, Goran Lebo, Stephan Mann
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Patent number: 7322619Abstract: A low-cost combination tilt-lock-latch mechanism for a sliding window that combines ease of installation and adjustment with simplicity of use. The mechanism includes at least one tilt-latch mechanism adapted for mounting in the window sash. The tilt-latch mechanism includes a housing and a plunger having a latch bolt portion retractable within the housing. A plunger latch member automatically latches the plunger in a retracted position to enable tilting of the sash. Further, the mechanism may include an actuator mechanism and a flexible linking member. The tilt-latch may include a locking member adjustable from outside the housing of the tilt latch, to lock the flexible linking member to the plunger, thereby operably coupling the actuator mechanism with the tilt-latch.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Truth Hardware CorporationInventors: Douglas A. Nolte, Kenneth E. Best, Clark A. Velzke, Edward J. Subliskey, Anthony J. Rotondi, Glen Wolf
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Patent number: 7322620Abstract: A security lock for sash windows includes an elongated cam that revolves in order to engage a keeper. The security lock also includes a tab that urges the cam against a wall of a housing to provide extra security. Once the cam contacts the housing wall it will not rotate to open as occurs in conventional sash locks. A groove and a race within the top inside of the housing direct a guide affixed to the top of the cam a), initially in a circular direction, and b), finally into a lateral direction into engagement with a locking stud on the wall of the housing. A rotating tab affixed to the handle axle causes the final cam movement during the locking process.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Barry G. Lawrence
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Patent number: 7322621Abstract: A magnetic lock is disclosed to include a latch for locking, a holder member supported on a spring and carrying an electromagnetic valve, which has a reciprocating rod fixedly mounted with a stop block for controlling the retraction of the latch, and an adjustment screw for controlling the holder member between a first position where the magnetic lock is locked when electrically connected and a second position where the magnetic lock is unlocked when electrically connected.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Li-Shih Liao
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Patent number: 7322622Abstract: The nano-gripper of the present invention comprises (i) a pair of arms 71 and 71 disposed side by side, each arm 71 having a face at its front end, the front-end faces of the arms 71 and 71 facing each other, (ii) and a protrusion 72 with a tip formed on the front-end face of each arm, the tips of the protrusions 72 and 72 facing each other, the radius of curvature of each tip being 50 nanometers or less. Each protrusion 72 is a triangular-pyramidal silicon crystal with (001), (100), and (111) side faces.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignees: Techno Network Shikoku Co., Ltd., AOI Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Gen Hashiguchi, Yutaka Mihara, Takeo Fukino, Takafumi Hara, Hiroyuki Fujita
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Patent number: 7322623Abstract: A gripping apparatus is disclosed. The gripping apparatus includes a first finger including a plurality of first sawteeth along a first longitudinal end and a receiving area being located between adjacent sawteeth and a second finger including a plurality of complementary sawteeth juxtaposed from the first sawteeth. One of the first and second fingers is movable relative toward the other of the first and second fingers such that an object to be gripped is positioned in the receiving area by one of the plurality of complementary sawteeth. The object is releasably retained against the receiving area by the second finger. A method of gripping an object is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Gregory R. Morton
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Patent number: 7322624Abstract: A bag holder including a main enclosure body for practically enclosing a space shaped and configured to hold bags by their handles, the space being essentially surrounded by the main enclosure body, the main enclosure body having two ends proximate to each other which are separated by a gap and a retractable clip member connected to a first one of the main enclosure body ends and being capable to extend to and engage the second end such that engagement of the clip with the second end completes the enclosure formed by the main enclosure body, wherein the clip member is selectively positioned by the user as to open or close the gap. A method of using the bag is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Sierra Housewares, Inc.Inventor: David J. Murphy
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Patent number: 7322625Abstract: The Detachable Clearance Wands provide a driver of a large vehicle having slideout compartments with a clear dimension for the extension length of the slideout. The wands are attachable to the vehicle's side prior to parking it to provide the extension length without risk of damage to the slideout. The wands are length-adjustable so that they can be configured for any length slideout.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: PCZ Enterprises, LLCInventor: David Hamilton
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Patent number: 7322626Abstract: A vehicle driver security screen and in particular a screen that seeks to minimize access to the driver's area of a vehicle such as a taxi cab or bus from side or rear attempts by passengers to access the driver area in an assault or robbery situation. The security screen is removably attached to the driver's seat in a way that does not restrict the movement of the driver's seat, nor restrict the driver's access or escape from the vehicle. The present invention is useful for drivers of public transport who are regularly exposed to aggressive behavior from passengers. The security screen provides protection to the head and torso regions of the driver while allowing contact with the passengers, such as when money is exchanged. Furthermore, the security screen provides protection to the driver from rear knife attack.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Colin Thomas
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Patent number: 7322627Abstract: A truck is disclosed with a vertically adjustable bed to facilitate cargo loading and unloading. The truck includes a U-shaped frame within which the vertically adjustable bed is located. The vertically adjustable bed is movable between elevated and lowered positions by hydraulic cylinders. When in its fully elevated position, the vertically adjustable bed is secured to the U-shaped frame by bed locking pins. When the vertically adjustable bed is in its fully elevated position, left and right tailgate doors are secured to each other by tailgate door locking screws. The left and right tailgate doors are secured to the vertically adjustable bed by tailgate bed locking pins and a lateral recess in the left and right tailgate doors designed to receive the rear edge of the vertically adjustable bed.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Clinton Jay Nicholson
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Patent number: 7322628Abstract: A clamp type travel lock secures a slide-out section of a vehicle in a retracted position. The travel lock is pivotally disposed in a pocket of the slide-out wall. An actuator of the travel lock is accessible from an interior side opening of the slide-out wall and a lock arm is extendible through an exterior side opening of the slide-out wall. Pivoting the travel lock from a stowed position extends the actuator and the lock arm through the respective interior and exterior side openings of the slide-out wall. The actuator can then be operated from an interior of the slide-out section to move the lock arm to clamp the lock arm against an interior surface of the exterior vehicle wall. When the travel lock is stowed within the slide-out wall the slide-out section can be moved between retracted and extended positions.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Actuant CorporationInventor: James R. Kunz
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Patent number: 7322629Abstract: A locking hinge (10) includes a first hinge panel (12a) and a second hinge panel (12b) pivotably connected by a pivot pin (14) about a pivoting axis (P). A locking rod (16) is slidably received by one of the first or second hinge panels (12a, 12b) along a sliding axis (S). The sliding axis (S) is substantially parallel the pivoting axis (P). A vehicle door structure (50) includes a first panel (102a) pivotably connected relative a second panel (102b) by a first hinge (104a). A third panel (102c) is pivotably connected relative the second panel (102b) by the locking hinge (10). Pivotable movement of the second panel (102b) relative the third panel (102c) is prevented when the locking hinge (10) is in a locked state. The third panel (102c) is pivotably connected to a vehicle floor (106) by a second hinge (104c) to permit unobstructed access to a stowage cavity (125) under the vehicle floor (106) for stowing a collapsible stow-to-floor seat (150).Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.Inventor: Steven D. McClintock
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Patent number: 7322630Abstract: A vehicle tailgate lift assist support structure is disclosed that includes a vehicle rear end structure, a vehicle tailgate and a lift assist device. The vehicle rear end structure includes first and second walls that extend generally perpendicular to one another. A hinge reinforcement bracket has first and second reinforcing parts. The first reinforcing part is fastened on the first wall and the second reinforcing part is fastened on the second wall. A vehicle tailgate is pivotally coupled to the hinge reinforcement bracket and the rear end structure to open and close by rotation about a tailgate pivot axis. A lift assist device is operably connected to the tailgate hinge and the vehicle rear end structure to dampen opening movement and to apply a closing torque to tailgate hinge during closing movement of the vehicle tailgate.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.Inventors: Richard Eschebach, William Bowes, Nandkumar Rangnekar, Rahul Joshi, Robert Gaines
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Patent number: 7322631Abstract: A system designed to provide shade for the driver and the front passenger in an automobile. Shades can be flipped up and either pulled out or power driven out to provide shade. Any suitable shapes and materials may be employed for the shades. In an alternative embodiment a shade is inflated and clipped on.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Jessey Roger
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Patent number: 7322632Abstract: In a vehicle including a cab, having a windshield with opposed upper and lower edges, bounding an interior, a dashboard extending into the interior proximate the lower edge of the windshield, a hood extending forwardly of the cab proximate the lower edge of the windshield, a sitting position in the interior of the vehicle rearward of the dashboard, and a field of view to the hood through the windshield overlying the dashboard from the sitting position, improvements therein consisting of a visor, having a glare suppressing property, mounted in the field of view adjacent to the lower edge of the windshield and the dashboard suppressing glare from the hood in the field of view.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: Jack F. Marszalek
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Patent number: 7322633Abstract: A releasable hinge for attaching tonneau covers to the cargo compartment of pickup trucks. The hinge has a hinge mechanism fastened to the bottom or underside of the tonneau cover. A complementary locking tab is mounted to the cab end of the cargo compartment. The hinge mechanism has a plate with a locking tongue that is received in a locking channel in the locking tab to latch the tonneau cover to the cargo compartment. To remove the tonneau cover from the cargo compartment, the tonneau cover is raised above a predetermined angle which disengages the locking tongue from the locking channel. This allows the hinge to separate from the locking tab. Any gas struts are released from their mounting brackets and the tonneau cover can be removed from the cargo compartment.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Penda CorporationInventors: Jason Zajicek, Kevin Last, Scott Burmeister
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Patent number: 7322634Abstract: A canopy system for a cart, such as a golf cart has a canopy supported by a support member, and a housing having an opening through which at least a portion of the canopy may extend when the canopy is deployed.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: William T. Held
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Patent number: 7322635Abstract: The present invention relates to a cover device for a vehicle top storage compartment of a convertible vehicle. A cover can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position. Two side flaps are arranged on sides of the cover that lie opposite each other transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, which side flaps can be pivoted between a passive position, in which they open lateral passage openings, and an active position, in which they close the passage openings. A particularly inexpensive construction is achieved by the fact that the side flaps are mounted on the cover in each case via a bearing arrangement which makes it possible to lower the particular side flap relative to the cover and to pivot the side flap under the cover. A driving device provided for adjusting the side flaps is designed exclusively for the pivoting adjustment about the flap axis, which is defined by the sleeve and the bolt.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Hans-Peter Kuttner, Bernhard Schenk