Patents Issued in June 12, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080136102
    Abstract: A poker-type game in which there are a plurality of game play rounds. In each round, players wager on hand values. Optimal hand values may change from round to round, so that players may be playing for a high value hand in one round, and for a lower value hand in a prior or succeeding round. In each round, players may proceed through a series of hand declarations and challenges, wherein two players are able to compare their hand values. The losing party in such a challenge pays an amount to the prevailing party. In embodiment, a player pot may be constituted, consisting of player wagers, with the total amount constituting an exchange rate. The payment amount for a lost challenge in the first round may be equal to the exchange rate, for the second round may be equal to two times the exchange rate, and for the third round may be equal to three times the exchange rate. Play may be continuous over more than one three round game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Dirk C. Hoover
  • Publication number: 20080136103
    Abstract: A method of playing a poker-type bonus to another game that is triggered by an event in the game. After being triggered, a plurality of revealed, two-card starter hands and five unrevealed community cards are displayed. The unrevealed cards are then revealed. Each starter hand is combined with the community cards to form complete hands. The player is paid a predetermined amount if any of the complete hands is found in a pay table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: NEW VISION GAMING & DEVELOPMENT, INC.
    Inventor: John Feola
  • Publication number: 20080136104
    Abstract: Each player receives two hole cards. A first group of community cards and a second group of community cards are dealt. Additional community cards are dealt to each group. Once all cards have been dealt, the highest ranking poker hand from using either of the community card groups is the winning hand. The betting takes place in the customary manner as appropriate for the game format being played.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: MICHAEL IRA MATANKY
  • Publication number: 20080136105
    Abstract: A method of playing a game is provided, which includes the steps of: (a) distributing a plurality of cards to a player; (b) exchanging one or more of the distributed cards selected by the player with different cards; (c) providing a predetermined award to the player when finally distributed cards include a first predetermined combination entitled to a win; and (d) supplying a special game, in which at least one of initially distributed cards is a specified card possessing a plurality of roles, for a subsequent game when the player achieves the win satisfying a predetermined condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Hirobumi Toyoda
  • Publication number: 20080136106
    Abstract: A method includes the steps of: performing a poker game in a first game field using a plurality of kinds of cards depicting numerals and marks; performing a selection game in a second game field when finally distributed cards include a specified combination to result in a win, the selection game allowing a player to select cards of an identical kind from a plurality of kinds of cards prepared separately in the second game field; and performing a special game, in which a plurality of sets of cards are distributed to one of the first game field and the second game field and awards corresponding to combinations of cards achieved in the respective sets are provided, throughout a number of games corresponding to a result of the selection game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Hirobumi Toyoda
  • Publication number: 20080136107
    Abstract: An apparatus for playing card game suitable for casino is played on a table having a substantially horizontal playing surface. The playing surface is of generally semi-circular shape, having a substantially straight edge along the diameter of the semicircle and a curved edge along the circumference of the semicircle. A dealer station is located approximately midway along the straight edge of the playing surface from which a dealer deals cards to each player. A plurality of player stations are located at spaced intervals along the curved edge of the playing surface. Each player station comprises a betting area having a plurality of designated locations arranged in a substantially “V” shape on which betting tokens may be placed, each designated location having a different predetermined value corresponding to one of a plurality of possible total values of cards dealt by the dealer to a player.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Jed James Carter
  • Publication number: 20080136108
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular gaming table comprising: (a) a modular table top comprising a main table surface having a top side and a bottom side; (b) at least one personal player area module receiving area; (c) at least one personal player area module insertably integral with the table top, the personal player area module having a top module side and a bottom module side, the top module side being about approximately flush with the table top surface in the horizontal plane; (d) a subsurface having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the subsurface top side is attachable to the main table surface bottom side; (e) a surface-subsurface attachment means; (f) a trim ring positioned approximately around the outer perimeter of the table top in the horizontal plane; (g) personal player area module attachment means. According to a preferred embodiment, the personal player area module is slidably insertable into the tabletop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew Polay
  • Publication number: 20080136109
    Abstract: A top drive system including, in certain aspects, a motor, a gear system below, and driven by the motor, a space between the top drive motor and the gear system, a seal assembly for inhibiting oil for lubricating parts of the gear system from flowing into the space, the seal assembly having a movable rod piston, a sealing arm projecting from the rod piston, at least one removable seal secured to the sealing arm, a seal member releasably secured to the gear system, and the movable rod piston movable to move the sealing arm to bring the at least one removable seal into sealingly contact with the seal member to inhibit oil from flowing into the space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Neil Edward West, Bastiaan de Jong
  • Publication number: 20080136110
    Abstract: An acoustic seal arrangement is provided for a motor vehicle. The vehicle has a floor pan defining the floor of a passenger compartment. The vehicle also has an energy storage module. The energy storage module has a top wall with an outer perimeter portion and the energy storage module is suspended in spaced relation beneath the floor pan. A ring-shaped seal of compressible material is positioned between the outer perimeter portion of the energy storage module and the floor pan and in compression therebetween to form a sealed space and impede the transmission of noise into the sealed space between the top wall of the energy storage module and the floor pan. Accordingly, that portion of the vehicle floor pan that lies above the sealed space is protected from exposure to road noise, thereby quieting the passenger compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Hua He
  • Publication number: 20080136111
    Abstract: A radial shaft seal has a support body and at least one sealing element that is a part produced separate from the support body and is connected to the support body by an adhesive connection. A static seal part that is a part separate from the sealing element and is arranged on a wall of the support body is provided. Alternatively, the sealing element comprises an integral static seal part and the static seal part is formed by a radially projecting edge of the holding part of the sealing element that projects radially past the wall of the support body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: KACO GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Klaus-Jurgen Uhrner, Roland Bleier
  • Publication number: 20080136112
    Abstract: A brush seal assembly includes a plurality of bristles, a joint securing the bristles, and a retaining assembly. Each of the bristles has a first end and a second end. The joint has a first side and a second side and connects the first ends of the bristles. The retaining assembly sandwiches the joint and includes a side plate, a back plate, and a threaded connection. The side plate engages the first side of the joint and the back plate engages the second side of the joint. The threaded connection holds the side plate and the back plate in engagement with the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Mark E. Addis
  • Publication number: 20080136113
    Abstract: A rotary device comprises a stator and a rotor. The stator has a cam surface. The rotor has a sleeve and a hub. There is a plurality of vanes reciprocatingly mounted on the rotor. There is a plurality of first longitudinal edge seals disposed on the sleeve. The first longitudinal edge seals each seal at least a portion of a first longitudinal edge of one of the vanes against the sleeve. There is a plurality of second longitudinal edge seals disposed on the hub. The second longitudinal edge seals each seal at least a portion of a second longitudinal edge of one of the vanes against the hub. There is a plurality of end edge seals. The end edge seals each seal a respective end edge of one of the vanes against the cam surface. The end edge seals each are in sealing engagement with respective ones of the first and second longitudinal edge seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Robert Grisar, Kim Luckner, Denis Sankovic
  • Publication number: 20080136114
    Abstract: The present invention solves the aforementioned problems by providing a vacuum seal assembly for a high power generator stub shaft which includes a seal stator encircling the stub shaft and a plurality of oil seals disposed on an inner diameter of the seal stator and encircling the stub shaft. Adjacent oil seals form a plurality of seal cavities between the stub shaft and the seal stator, and define gaps between each oil seal and the stub shaft for receiving a lubricant film. At least one seal feed conduit extending through the seal stator into the plurality of seal cavities to provide lubricant to the seal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Murtuza Lokhandwalla, Kirubaharan Sivasubramaniam, Evangelos Trifon Laskaris
  • Publication number: 20080136115
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a turbine against leakage of a working fluid comprising at least one radially displaceable sealing ring, coaxially disposed about a rotating member of the turbine from a stationary member of the turbine, which sealing ring undergoes radial displacements that are coupled to radial displacements of the rotating member, such that a design radial clearance is substantially maintained without damage to the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Jerry Wayne Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080136116
    Abstract: A piston ring for internal combustion engines with a coating of Chromium nitride (CrN) deposited by a physical vapor deposition process on a sliding surface with a typical crystal structure of CrN phase, has a high wear resistance and superior resistance to the generation of micro-cracks and consequent localized loss of pieces of the coating. The coating is a columnar crystalline coating of CrN having a dispersed pore content lower than 10% in volume and ratio of intensities, measured through x-ray diffraction, between the crystal planes (111) and planes (200), parallel to the surface, in the range of 0.40 to 0.70. This crystalline distribution is obtained through an oxygen content impregnated in the CrN coating between 1.0% in weight to 7.0% in weight. The Vickers hardness of the film ranges from 1,500 to 2,200 HV.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Jose Valentim Lima Sarabanda, Robert Richard Banfield, Gisela Ablas Marques
  • Publication number: 20080136117
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that includes a gasket having an annular shape characterized by an outer circumference and an inner circumference. The gasket is characterized by an inner thickness, proximate the inner circumference, tapering to an outer thickness, proximate the outer circumference. The inner thickness of the gasket is substantially greater than the outer thickness. A support member is integrated into the gasket to provide radial support to the gasket. In selected embodiments, one or more indexing features may also be integrated into the gasket to properly align and “clock” cylindrical sections sealed by the gasket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas O. Roe, David Toy
  • Publication number: 20080136118
    Abstract: There is provided a high pressure sealing apparatus including: a top adapter including a packing receiving recess having an inverted V-shaped section; a bottom adapter including a packing supporting wall having an inverted V-shaped section; packing members each having an inverted V-shaped section, and interposed between the top adapter and the bottom adapter; and backup rings each having an inverted V-shaped section, and alternately overlapped with the packing members. The packing members are made of hard synthetic resin. A deformation allowing gap is formed on at least two facing walls of a top wall or a bottom wall of the packing member, and a bottom wall of the top adapter, a top wall and a bottom wall of the backup ring, or a top wall of the bottom adapter to be closed owing to compaction force in an axial direction X.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Shigeo Ando, Masao Ando, Toyoroku Ando
  • Publication number: 20080136119
    Abstract: A metal gasket includes a first metal plate having positioning holes, and a second metal plate laminated under the first metal plate. The second metal plate has positioning projections facing corresponding positioning holes and fitted into the facing corresponding positioning holes. At least one of the positioning holes does not match the other of the positioning holes in case the position holes are overlapped, and at least one of the positioning projections is not fitted into the other of the positioning holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: ISHIKAWA GASKET CO., LTD
    Inventor: Toshihiro Imai
  • Publication number: 20080136120
    Abstract: A fitting for connecting conduit. The fitting includes a plurality of conductors running through the fitting such that the conductors are vertically oriented in addition to a dam that is near a bottom of the fitting such that the dam separates the conductors from each other and sides of the fitting. The fitting further includes a sealing compound that has been expanded within the fitting above the dam to separate the conductors from each other and sides of the fitting. In a further embodiment, a method of filling a fitting having conductors running through the fitting includes creating a dam near a bottom of the fitting and adding a sealing compound to the fitting such that the dam prevents the sealing compound from exiting the fitting. The method further includes allowing the sealing compound to expand in the fitting such that the conductors are separated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Paul S. Babiarz, William Bradley Delans
  • Publication number: 20080136121
    Abstract: In order to easily permit functionally correct mounting of a sealing strip (3) which is intended for use on the frame structure of a vehicle opening, a sealing arrangement is proposed which is composed of an attachment section (4) and a sealing section (5), wherein aids are provided which are intended for carrying out uniquely determined positioning on a section (2) of the aforesaid frame structure. These aids are a groove (7) which is configured to receive a frame part of the frame structure and which extends along the entire length of the sealing strip (3) and whose maximum insertion depth signals the precise positioning of the sealing strip on the aforesaid frame part. These aids can also be a bead (15) which is integrally formed on the attachment section (4) and which performs the function of a spacing element in relation to a stop surface of the aforesaid frame structure and is connected to the attachment section in a releasable, in particular tear-off connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: METEOR GUMMIWERKE K. H. BÄDJE GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Paavo Zelazo
  • Publication number: 20080136122
    Abstract: A preload is applied to a thermoplastic seal to induce deformation of the seal. As the seal undergoes deformation (e.g., cold flow), it completes the seal. Thermoplastics such as PEEK, PEK, PPS, PEKEKK, and PET are examples of materials that may be used in the seal. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Philippe Gambier
  • Publication number: 20080136123
    Abstract: ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A gasket, in particular a valve-cover or cylinder-head cover seal, for sealing a connection between a substantially thin-walled, molded part and an additional molded part. The gasket includes an elastic sealing lip which is disposed between the two molded parts, and the elastic sealing lip is molded onto the outer edge region of a dimensionally stable support frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: MANN & HUMMEL GmbH
    Inventors: Jean-Philippe Angot, Philippe Trotin
  • Publication number: 20080136124
    Abstract: The invention discloses a drill chuck locked through an inclined wedge surface, comprising a drill body, plural jaws, a nut, an outer sleeve, a control sleeve, a poking claw and a wedge block type lock ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SHANDONG WEIDA MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xingda Tan
  • Publication number: 20080136125
    Abstract: An attachment for a power tool has a tool receptacle for receiving a tool bit, a locking unit which is detachably mountable on a housing of a power tool, an output shaft, which is connectable to a drive shaft of the power tool in a manner fixed against relative rotation, and a device for adjusting the torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Daniel Hirt, Juergen Gairing
  • Publication number: 20080136126
    Abstract: Roller shoes in which a roller is installed on a shoe base in a detachable manner comprises a plurality of roller installation grooves formed at the center of the shoe base, a roller axle support inserted into the roller installation grooves, wherein the roller is attached to the roller axle support by a magnetic force, a break mechanism formed at both ends of a middle portion of the front and utmost end of the rear of the shoe base, and a cover mounted in the roller installation grooves. A roller axle support groove formed at both ends of a U shape is inserted in the roller installation groove, and a roller installation part comprising the roller axle is inserted in the roller axle support groove for the roller to be installed in a detachable manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Dong-Suk Yang
  • Publication number: 20080136127
    Abstract: A stroller is connected with a car seat, and includes a frame, a seat portion disposed on the frame, and a supporting member mounted to the seat portion. The supporting member is convertible between a supporting state where the supporting member stands on the seat portion, and a retracted state where the supporting member is disposed under the seat portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Shun-Min CHEN, Jun-Xu JIN
  • Publication number: 20080136128
    Abstract: A detachable mobile seat includes a first part connected to a motor; a second part attached to the seat; and two links, each connected to the first part, the second part, and a wheel. The links transfer movement of the first part to the wheels. The first part includes a shaft connected to the motor, and two nuts disposed around the shaft that have screw threads in opposite directions and move along the shaft in response to operation of the motor. Each link includes a first link connected to the second part and to the nut, and a second link connected to the nut and to the wheel. The end of each second link that is nearest the wheel is rotatably connected to a connecting arm that has a rotating bar that rotates the wheel in response to operation of the links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Yeon Sang Yoo, Ju Young Lee
  • Publication number: 20080136129
    Abstract: A pull-out recliner is disclosed to include a rear recliner frame unit equipped with a front pair of wheel assemblies and a rear pair of wheel assemblies, a front recliner frame unit coupled to the rear recliner frame unit and movable in and out of the rear recliner frame unit between the received position and the extended position, a rear cushion fixedly mounted on the rear recliner frame unit, a front cushion, and a movable rack affixed to the front side of the front cushion and pivoted to the front side of the front recliner frame unit such that the front cushion is kept in flush with the rear cushion when the pull-out recliner is extended out, or stacked on the rear cushion when the front recliner frame unit is received in the rear recliner frame unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SHINN FU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Qing-Yan Wu
  • Publication number: 20080136130
    Abstract: A housekeeping system for holding and transporting supplies, such as cleaning supplies, in a variety of environments includes an interior compartment. By way of example, the housekeeping system may be a portable unit used by a room attendant to clean hotel rooms. The interior may include dividers and a removable caddy system configured to hold room supplies, cleaning supplies, room amenities, products, and other items. Uniquely configured pockets may be located on the system to hold specialized tools or utensils. For example, a pocket may be located on the side of the system for holding a toilet brush and closable to substantially a brush portion of the toilet brush. Preferably, the portable housekeeping system is sized and configured for maneuverability into and out of doorways and around furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Kanethia Washington
  • Publication number: 20080136131
    Abstract: In an undercarriage (1) for transportation of a feeding pump device (3) consisting of a driving motor (4) and a feeding pump (3) intended to feed and/or process fluid media, this feeding pump (3) can be deployed into a supply container (10) and is devised of a supporting frame (11) constructed of hollow profiles (13, 14, 15) which is carrying the feeding device (2), that is equipped with two laterally mounted panels (21 and 22), wherein support or guiding camshafts (23 and 24) mounted opposite from each other are integrated. At least two guiding bolts (31, 32) hook into the support shaft (23, 24). The undercarriage (1) is supported during operations across the horizontal bars over large panels, but still the feeding device (2) will be secured inside the panels (21, 22) of the supporting frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: J. WAGNER GMBH
    Inventors: Viktor Sorg, Christoph Welte, Jurgen Stecher
  • Publication number: 20080136132
    Abstract: A system for the storage and convenient presentation of tools or other items is disclosed. Specifically, the invention disclosed is a multilevel tool tree which consists of a base assembly, a substantially vertical tube assembly and shelf assemblies attached to the substantially vertical tube assembly. The substantially vertical tube assembly can be extended or contracted, thereby raising and lowering the shelf assemblies attached thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Steve Brager
  • Publication number: 20080136133
    Abstract: The stopper for preventing movement of a bag equipped with casters according to the present invention contains: a base mounted on the bottom surface of the bag; a swingable member having one end portion rotatably connected to the base, and having the other end portion capable of being manipulated so as to swing the swingable member between a housing position where the other end portion is positioned close to the base and an engagement position for engaging the other end portion with the ground; a first link having one end portion rotatably connected to the swingable member, and having the other end portion rotatably and slidably connected to the base and slidable along the bottom surface of the base in response to the swinging movement of the swingable member; and a second link having one end portion rotatably connected to the other end portion of the first link, and constructed so as to be slidable with the other end portion of the first link along the bottom surface of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: ACE LUGGAGE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Makoto Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20080136134
    Abstract: A zero turning radius vehicle is disclosed that has a steering and drive control mechanism that includes a steering wheel and an accelerator pedal. The mechanism includes push-pull rods to effect movement of throttle levers on motors that independently drive traction elements such as wheels or traction belts. The position of each push-pull rod can be controlled by both the steering wheel and the accelerator pedal such that both the wheel and accelerator pedal can control the throttle of each motor independently or proportionally to thereby effect a change in vehicle speed and/or direction of travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Trevor Albert McCoid, David Edward White
  • Publication number: 20080136135
    Abstract: A mount for supporting and isolating a first member from a second member. The mount includes a second member outer mount structure housing, the second member outer housing for attachment with the second member. The mount includes a first member inner mount assembly, the first member inner mount assembly including an at least first member inner mount molded first split, the first member inner mount molded first split including an at least first inclined outwardly facing surface and a first insert core with an expander receiving cavity, the first member inner mount assembly including a first member inner mount molded at least second split, the first member inner mount molded at least second split including a second split inclined outwardly facing surface and a second insert core with an expander receiving cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: James A. Maciak
  • Publication number: 20080136136
    Abstract: A control (oscillating) arm, especially a suspension (transverse oscillating) arm, for a motor vehicle suspension has at least two elongated hollow body components and at least one essentially plate-like hollow body component and at least one essentially plate-like connecting (assembling) element fixed to the hollow bodies. The hollow body components (1, 2) have at least one opening (4) extending in the longitudinal axis of the component for receiving one of the end areas (7) of the connecting element. The end areas (7) of the connecting element (3) are pushed into the interior space of the hollow body component (1, 2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Luzian Kobier
  • Publication number: 20080136137
    Abstract: A vehicle frame includes a head tube, a fork, and a rotation limiting mechanism. The fork includes a steerer that extends rotatably through the head tube. The rotation limiting mechanism is operable so as to limit rotation of the steerer relative to the head tube, and includes first and second positioning units, and an engaging unit. The first positioning unit is coupled to the head tube. The second positioning unit is coupled to the steerer. The engaging unit engages releasably the first and second positioning units to thereby limit rotation of the steerer relative to the head tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Toshi Huang
  • Publication number: 20080136138
    Abstract: A remotely releasable brake hose coupler for pressure fluid operated brake systems, such as on a motor truck and semi-trailer unit, and a retrieval mechanism for retrieving flexible hoses connected to the coupler. Pressure air from the truck tractor brake system is conducted through a valve to an actuator for effecting movement of a coupler member to release engagement with a corresponding coupler fitting mounted on a trailer. One or more air brake hoses connected to respective remotely releasable couplers are connected to tensioning mechanisms and to a movable boom mounted on the truck tractor for extending the hoses during a remote release operation and then retracting the hoses and couplers to a stored position when the remotely releasable couplers are disconnected from the trailer fittings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: KALMAR INDUSTRIES USA, LLC
    Inventors: Merlin B. Halverson, Harold E. King, Gregory J. Lehman
  • Publication number: 20080136139
    Abstract: An anti-jackknifing hitch assembly (12) (“assembly”) includes a hitch (18), a tongue (20), two resilient members (22a, 22b), and a routing member (24). The hitch (18) is attached to a tow vehicle (10). The tongue (20) extends from a trailer (16) and is attached to the hitch (18). The tongue (20) pivots about a pivot axis (34) within a predetermined range of articulation (52) defined by the resilient members (22a, 22b). In particular, resilient members (22a, 22b) respectively connect end portions (36a, 36b) of hitch (18) to front corner portions (40a, 40b) of trailer (16) and are sized for preventing over-articulation. Routing member (24) assists resilient members (22a, 22b) in applying a restoring moment about the pivot axis (34). Namely, the routing member (24) extends from the hitch (18) or tongue (20) adjacent to pivoting axis (34). The routing member (24) includes attachment members (48a, 48b) with resilient members (22a, 22b) extending therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David Russell, Chi Yip, Dennis Kessler, Paul Snyder
  • Publication number: 20080136140
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lifting device (1) to be mounted in a motor vehicle and intended, in case the vehicle is involved in an accident, to be activated by putting a lifting element (5) being spring-tensioned in the lifting device in motion, wherein the lifting device comprises a locking device (7) intended to cooperate with the lifting element (5) for locking it in a spring-tensioned position, and a release mechanism (9) intended to release the locked lifting element (5) so it can be put in motion under the influence of the spring tension. The invention is characterised in that the release mechanism (9) comprises a striking element (37) intended to release the locked lifting element (5) by means of striking-pin action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: SAAB AUTOMOBILE AB
    Inventor: Mikael Karlsson
  • Publication number: 20080136141
    Abstract: A guide loop device for a seat belt of a vehicle includes a guide loop having an opening, a mounting stud, and a body. The opening is for receiving the seat belt. The mounting stud is attached to the guide loop and extends therefrom. The body has a substantially solid construction and a portion of the mounting stud is embedded therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: TK Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark F. Gray
  • Publication number: 20080136142
    Abstract: A head restraint assembly of this embodiment includes a bun and a post. The post is adapted to attach the head restraint assembly to a vehicle seat. The head restraint bun includes a head restraint core and a trim cover. The trim cover surrounds at least a portion of the head restraint core. The trim cover includes a close-out section at which the trim cover is closed after the head restraint core is placed within the trim cover. A retainer clip is attached to the head restraint core at an attachment region. The head restraint assembly also includes a close-out retainer bracket which is attached to a close-out section of the trim cover. When the trim cover is in a closed position, the close-out retainer bracket is secured to the retainer clip. A method of assembly head restraints is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas Welch, William Parusziewicz, Larry Hulme
  • Publication number: 20080136143
    Abstract: An inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) includes a main portion (80) defining an inflatable volume (60) and a shield portion (100) defining a shield chamber (102). The inflatable volume (60) and shield chamber (102) are in fluid communication with each other. The shield portion (100) is turned inside-out, positioned in the inflatable volume (60), and configured to receive inflation fluid from an inflation fluid source (24). The shield portion (100) is further configured to rupture and release inflation fluid into the inflatable volume (60) of the main portion (100).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Kevin J. Boxey
  • Publication number: 20080136144
    Abstract: An inflatable restraint system (10) having a deployable trim panel (60) and a method of manufacturing the same is provided. The inflatable restraint system (10) includes a deployable trim panel (60) that is coupled to a support structure (12) and conceals an airbag. Upon the deployment of the airbag, the entire trim panel (60) is configured to move. A separate reaction surface (80) is mounted to the trim panel and is configured to receive the force of the inflating airbag. Use of a separate reaction surface may simplify the design of an instrument panel by allowing the instrument panel to be configured as a single substrate layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Timothy James Spahr, Jeff Stump, Javier Avila, Ronald Hemmeke, Frank Ardigo
  • Publication number: 20080136145
    Abstract: An apparatus for housing an airbag, disposed at a crash pad of a vehicle. A pad deploy part includes a stepped portion, a first hinge, and a tear groove. An airbag door, attached to the pad deploy part, includes a second hinge integral to the first hinge, and a chute part connected to an airbag housing. Deployment of the airbag tears the tear groove such that the pad deploy part and airbag door rotate around the first and second hinges, respectively. The airbag door may be attached to the pad deploy part only between the first hinge and the stepped part. The first hinge may be thicker than the second hinge. The apparatus may further include a mount hole on the chute part, configured to be coupled with a hook on the airbag housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Byung Seok Kong
  • Publication number: 20080136146
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an airbag door that opens during deployment of an airbag, and a crash pad integrally injection-molded with the airbag door. The airbag door may include a tear groove, torn during the deployment of the airbag; a slanted part; and a variable part, a thickness of which varies. The crash pad may include an insertion part which contacts the slanted part of the airbag door to support the airbag door when the airbag door opens. A method includes simultaneously injecting materials of a crash pad and an airbag door with an upper and a lower mold and a slide mold coupled to one another such that the airbag door is integrally injection molded with the crash pad, retreating the molds, and removing the airbag door by moving the slide mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Byung Seok Kong
  • Publication number: 20080136147
    Abstract: A panel includes an air bag insert hole. An air bag housing is mounted in the air bag insert hole. The air bag housing includes a connector. A bracket is attached to the panel and to the connector, to connect the air bag housing to the panel. The panel may further include at least one breakable portion, configured to break upon inflation of an air bag cushion mounted within the air bag housing. The breakable portion may include thinner material than material of a remaining portion of the panel, perforations, or a crack. The bracket may have a higher ductility than the lower panel. The bracket may be bolted to the lower panel. The connector may include a secondary hole. The bracket has a portion that is inserted in the secondary hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Joon Mo Park, Uon Jae Jung
  • Publication number: 20080136148
    Abstract: An inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) includes a main portion (80) defining an inflatable volume (60) and a shield portion (100) defining a shield chamber (102). The inflatable volume (60) and shield chamber (102) are in fluid communication with each other. The shield portion (100) is turned inside-out, positioned in the inflatable volume (60), and configured to receive inflation fluid from an inflation fluid source (24). The shield portion (100) is further configured to rupture and release inflation fluid into the inflatable volume (60) of the main portion (100).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Kevin J. Boxey
  • Publication number: 20080136149
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an airbag unit is provided. The airbag unit comprises an airbag made of fabric. The unit has fastening devices for attaching the airbag to a motor vehicle. A cover section is proximate to the fastening devices and is fastened to the airbag. The cover section is configured to not completely cover the airbag when the airbag is in an unrolled state and forms a wrapping of the airbag when the airbag is rolled-up with the cover section to define rolled-up state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: Autoliv Development AB
    Inventors: Börje Jacobsson, Mats Berntsson, Fredrik Kjell
  • Publication number: 20080136150
    Abstract: An airbag control system for a vehicle includes: a switch, configured to be coupled to a projection on a child safety seat when the child safety seat is mounted to a vehicle seat; a tether anchor on the vehicle seat, including a contact member and a tether anchor bar configured to be coupled to a hook connected to the child safety seat, and to be electrically connected to the contact member when the tether anchor bar is not coupled to the hook; and a controller, electrically connected to the switch and the contact member. If the child safety seat is mounted to the vehicle seat and/or the tether anchor bar is coupled to the hook, the controller receives a signal from the switch and/or the tether anchor bar and instructs an airbag module not to deploy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Dal Soo Shin
  • Publication number: 20080136151
    Abstract: An airbag device includes an airbag control IC constructed with a control signal generating circuit, a high-side switching element and a low-side switching element. Based on a signal for controlling the low-side switching element, on a signal for controlling a safety switching element and on a check mode signal, the control signal generating circuit adjusts the timing of the signal for controlling the high-side switching element so that the high-side switching element is turned on last. Therefore, the high-side switching element is turned on last. This suppresses the occurrence of an overshoot current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: DENSO Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hattori, Toshihiro Nishimura