Patents Issued in September 25, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080231069
    Abstract: The invention relates to a side lifting/closing tarpaulin system for a flatbed trailer, the trailer having an elongated platform having front and rear ends, sides, a pair of bulkheads of similar construction extending upwardly from the platform at its front and rear ends, and a plurality of tarpaulin supporting beams extending laterally across the platform, and longitudinally along the platform. The system comprises a pair of pivoting arms, each arm supported by a corresponding bulkhead. The arms are pivotable, in corresponding fashion, with respect to a side of the platform, between an upper, open orientation and a lower, closed orientation. Each arm is provided with an elongated slot along a longitudinal axis of the arm. Each arm is mounted relative to the bulkhead such that the pivot sits within the slot in a manner that permits longitudinal movement of the arm relative to the pivot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: AERO-KIT INDUSTRIES INC.
    Inventor: Brian W. PETELKA
  • Publication number: 20080231070
    Abstract: The present invention provides a movable closeout device or closeout panel for a convertible roof that attaches to the rear bow of the roof and moves up and down with the rear bow as the convertible roof retracts or extends. The closeout device may be a substantially rigid panel such as a parcel shelf, or may be a flexible or elastic panel. The movable closeout device attenuates noise entering the vehicle interior from the trunk and improves vehicle appearance by substantially closing out the area between the rear seat and the roof stowage area of the trunk when the convertible roof is in the up position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Sansome
  • Publication number: 20080231071
    Abstract: A durable soft-top cover used to cover the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The durable soft-top cover includes a rigid member that prevents the annoying and turbulent flapping of the soft-top at high rates of speed when the vehicle velocity and wind speed is increased. The durable soft-top cover is reinforced with rigid members that support the canvas-like material of the soft-top. The rigid members are disposed adjacent to and/or within a material making up the durable soft-top. The durable soft-top may be portably rolled and/or folded and compactly stored. The rigid construction may be composed of at least one or more rigid member to provide the rigidity to the durable soft-top.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Edward Causey
  • Publication number: 20080231072
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle roof of a convertible having a front roof part (2) and a rear roof part (3) that contains the rear window (14) and is hingedly connected to the vehicle body. Front and rear roof part are connected to one another in an articulated manner and can be displaced between a closed position over the vehicle interior and a rear put-away position. The rear window (14) which is pivotably mounted to the rear roof part (3) is connected at the front edge thereof to the front roof part by means of a control rod (22) of a control cinematics, which is pivotably mounted to the front roof part, while in the put-away position the rear window has a position which is elevated in relation to the rear roof part (3). According to the invention, a pivotable bearing part (20) of the control cinematics, which is mounted on the front side of the rear window (14), can be accommodated at the guide (21) of the control rod (22) so as to be displaceable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Massimo Franco, Pasquale Marrocco
  • Publication number: 20080231073
    Abstract: A clamping arrangement for removably securing an elongated header for a vehicle soft top to the windshield frame of a sport utility or other vehicle. The arrangement includes first and second clamp sections. The first section is fixedly attached to the header and the second section is pivotally mounted or otherwise movable relative to the first. The first clamp section includes a downwardly open hook portion that is positionable over a catch member of a footman loop mounted to the main body of the windshield frame. In operation of the preferred embodiment, the second clamp section engages the main body of the windshield wherein the first section and attached header are then rotated forwardly about the axis of the catch member. This forces or drives the header downwardly against the sealing cap on the top of the windshield frame where it is then secured in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: BESTOP, INC.
    Inventors: Richard C. Essig, Christopher R. Schumacher
  • Publication number: 20080231074
    Abstract: A door opening and closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a first hinge base adapted to be mounted to a vehicle body, a second hinge base adapted to be mounted to a vehicle door, a four-link hinge including a first hinge arm and a second hinge arm for connecting the first hinge base with the second hinge base, the four-link hinge supporting the vehicle door between a fully open position and a fully closed position, a fully open position locking mechanism adapted to be mounted on the vehicle door for locking the vehicle door relative to the vehicle body at the fully open position, and an unlocking mechanism adapted to be mounted on the fully open position locking mechanism for releasing a locked condition of the vehicle door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shigeyuki SUZUKI, Yukio ISOMURA
  • Publication number: 20080231075
    Abstract: A multi-purpose vehicle cargo bed accessory includes a central body portion, a first lateral body portion and a mounting structure. The first lateral body portion is rigidly connected along a first lateral edge of the central body portion to form a generally T-shaped transverse cross section with the central body portion along a majority of a length of the first lateral edge. The first lateral body portion has a first longitudinal part extending outwardly from a first side of central body portion and a second longitudinal part extending outwardly from a second side of central body portion. At least one of the central body portion and the first lateral body portion includes the mounting structure configured and arranged to securely fasten the vehicle cargo bed accessory to a vehicle cargo area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Nissan Design America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard PLAVETICH
  • Publication number: 20080231076
    Abstract: A vehicle side panel step structure includes a step, a mounting structure and a sub-side body panel. The mounting structure movably couples the step to the structural support for movement of the step between a retracted step position and an extended step position relative to a structural support of the vehicle. In the extended step position the step is approximately horizontally oriented relative to a main side body panel of the vehicle. A sub-side body panel is coupled to the mounting structure to move between a fascia mating position when the step is in the retracted step position and a non-fascia mating position when the step is in the extended step position. The sub-side body panel includes a contoured edge configured such that in the retracted step position the contoured edge of the sub-side body panel and a contoured edge of the main side body panel at least partially define the wheel well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Nissan Design America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Plavetich
  • Publication number: 20080231077
    Abstract: A wireless-equipped vehicle includes a vehicle body made of a metal and including a ceiling, a main body and a pillar connecting the ceiling and the main body, the pillar having a side face, an interior wireless device located in the vehicle body to receive radio waves from outside the vehicle body, and a magnetic loss material disposed on the side face of the pillar to limit AC current conduction between the ceiling and the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: PACIFIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yasuhisa Tsujita
  • Publication number: 20080231078
    Abstract: A vehicle body side structure, which includes: a pillar having a closed cross section formed by jointing a pillar inner panel and an outer panel; a vehicle interior side face, on which an opening is disposed, of the pillar; a seat belt retractor to be arranged inside the pillar by being inserted through the opening; a boxy member, in which the seat belt retractor is housed to be arranged in the opening, having a flange portion and a bottom back face; and a structural foaming member for jointing at least one of the flange portion and the bottom back face to an inner surface of the pillar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Kosaku Tomozawa
  • Publication number: 20080231079
    Abstract: The invention is a chassis skirt for a motor vehicle's chassis. The chassis skirt has a panel assembly that releasably engages a frame assembly. The frame assembly mounts to a chassis, such as to a chassis mounted bracket like a battery box. The frame assembly has spaced apart bracket assemblies that can have a pin extending from a bracket to engage receivers in the panel assembly. Isolators in the frame assembly also engage the panel assembly. A spring is used to assist in moving the panel assembly away from the chassis to access the chassis mounted bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin L. Grady, Matthew D. Friede, Michael C. DePoy, Brad D. Singer, Harry A. Manges, Arden L. King
  • Publication number: 20080231080
    Abstract: A partition panel extends in a first direction to partition a passenger room from a trunk room in the rear portion of the car body and is provided with an opening. A floor panel extends in a second direction which is different from the first direction. Upper attaching portions respectively arranged in a pair of right and left upper end portions of an X-shaped reinforcing bar are fixed to upper attached portions formed on the partition panel. Lower attaching portions respectively arranged in a pair of right and left lower end portions of the reinforcing bar are fixed to lower attached portions formed on the floor panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kaoru SANGU
  • Publication number: 20080231081
    Abstract: In the case of a front structure of a motor vehicle two cross members are connected to one another by means of a longitudinal beam. One of the attachments of the longitudinal beam is displaceable by an amount X in the direction of travel and has an adapter made from plastic. During driving operation a transfer of vibrations between the cross members is prevented by means of the attachment. In the event of a crash, the cross member oriented in the direction of travel is supported by the longitudinal beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Ralf-Dieter Bechtold, Stephan Blasser, Sascha Hoffeller
  • Publication number: 20080231082
    Abstract: A vehicle (20) includes a wheel housing (22) defining a wheel well (24). A liner (32) is disposed in the wheel well (24) and extends in an arcuate path about and spaced radially from a wheel (26). The liner (32) is of a polymer and includes a rubber dispersed therein for absorbing sound generated by the vehicle (20) and for absorbing vibrations generated by the vehicle (20). The liner (32) includes a rib (42) disposed adjacent to a fender (28) and extending longitudinally along the liner (32) in an arcuate path about the wheel (26) for deflecting debris propelled by the wheel (26) away from the fender (28) and the vehicle (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Boney A. Mathew
  • Publication number: 20080231083
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a door system having at least one door leaf wherein the door leaf has a first side and a second side; a displacement system for the door leaf. According to the invention there are two suspension points, wherein the door leaf is connected to an organ that is moveable between the two suspension points, wherein the first suspension point is situated at a greater distance from the plane of the entrance opening than the second suspension point; a rotation axis is provided situated at a distance from the second side, the door leaf being rotatable around said rotation axis; a track system is provided, for moving the door leaf in two phases, wherein the track system in the first phase, by rotating around the rotation axis, moves in particular the second side outward, and in the second phase determines a displacement of the door leaf by a displacement of the organ from the first suspension point in the direction of the second suspension point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: DE NOOIJER BEHEER B.V.
    Inventor: Pieter Smink
  • Publication number: 20080231084
    Abstract: A vehicle front end structure is provided with a vehicle body frame forming a frontward portion of a vehicle, a longitudinal acceleration sensor, a frontward vehicle component, a rearward extending part and a bracket. The frontward vehicle component is disposed to protrude farther forward than the vehicle body frame. The rearward extending part is connected to the frontward vehicle component and extends to a rearward position of the vehicle body frame. The bracket fixes the rearward extending part to the vehicle body frame at a connection area such that the rearward extending part is located farther rearward than the connection area of the vehicle body frame, with the bracket being constructed such that the rearward extending part releases from the vehicle body frame when a force acts to move the frontward vehicle component and the rearward extending part rearward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Naoki MISHIMA
  • Publication number: 20080231085
    Abstract: A motor vehicle, especially a cabriolet vehicle, with a motor vehicle chassis is provided to whose underbody area at least two reinforcing struts are allocated, each of which trends from a chassis attachment with a component in the direction of a vertical longitudinal mid-plane. A connection support is provided free under the underbody and with a distance to it, at which support two of these struts are held in close distance to each other with respect to the vehicle transverse direction, as well as two further struts, which from there extend away, in each case, with a component in the direction of the vertical longitudinal mid-plane, wherein the connection support is angled about at least one axis extending transverse to the vehicle between the mountings for the two struts and the mountings for the two further struts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: WILHELM KARMANN GMBH
    Inventors: Franz Westing, Andreas Bente, Vinzenz Partmann
  • Publication number: 20080231086
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a motor vehicle body with a roof-carrying frame (13), upon which an adapter carrier (7) is placed and secured for holding roof windows, sliding roofs, roof opening systems and/or roof module variants, and an adapter carrier (7) suitable for installation in a motor vehicle body according to the invention. The invention further indicates a corresponding manufacturing method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Bernhard Mathes, Bernd Mildeberger, Richard Stahlhut, Tobias Stever
  • Publication number: 20080231087
    Abstract: A power retracting assembly includes an actuator, an output shaft operatively coupled to the actuator, and an outer plate rotatably coupled to the output shaft about an upper axis. A rigid link fixed to the output shaft pivots about a primary lower axis. Rotation of the outer plate by the output shaft in a first direction causes pivotal movement of the link about the primary lower axis in a second direction, thereby rotating the outer plate and the output shaft about the primary lower axis in the second direction. A bracket pivots about a secondary lower axis. A fastener extends from the outer plate through the bracket. As the outer plate rotates about the primary lower axis, the fastener also rotates, pulling the bracket about the secondary lower axis. A stop extending from the bracket travels along an anchor between a seating end and a stowed end for defining movement of the link and the seat assembly between the seating and stowed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: INTIER AUTOMOTIVE INC.
    Inventor: Carl J. Holdampf
  • Publication number: 20080231088
    Abstract: A collapsible chair (100) with quad configuration includes a spacer element (160) that increases the distance between the cross bars (152, 154) of a cross brace (150). While contemplated spacer elements reduce collapsibility of the chair, they will in most cases prevent injury to the fingers of a person that collapses the chair by holding on, or applying force to one or more cross bars (152, 154).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Edward Zheng
  • Publication number: 20080231089
    Abstract: A furniture member frame includes a plurality of commercial grade plywood frame members connected to create a frame sub-assembly. A plurality of interlocking joints are defined by male extending members of first ones of the frame members and receiving apertures of second ones of the frame members. The interlocking joints operate when the male extending members of selected ones of the first ones of the frame members are received in the receiving apertures of the second frame members to temporarily connect the frame members. An adhesive applied to at least the interlocking joints fixedly connects the frame members of the first frame sub-assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Larry P. LaPointe, Mark D. McClung
  • Publication number: 20080231090
    Abstract: A driving position adjusting device comprises a seat-position adjusting mechanism to adjust height and seat-face angle of a seat cushion in accordance with longitudinal movement of a driver's seat, and a floor adjusting mechanism to adjust a height of a floor board in accordance with the operation of the longitudinal adjustment of the driver's seat, wherein the seat-position adjusting mechanism is configured so that an inclination angle of the seat cushion becomes smaller as the driver's seat is moved forward from a middle position, and the floor adjusting mechanism is configured so that the height of the floor board becomes higher as the driver's seat is moved forward from the middle position. Accordingly, the sitting position of the driver and the operational function of the operational pedal can be provided properly regardless of the body size of the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yusaku TAKEDA, Tomonori OHTSUBO, Hiroki UEMURA, Naoki YAMADA
  • Publication number: 20080231091
    Abstract: A mount for a table that is both decorative and functional. A clamp-on base attaches around the gas spring lift of any office or executive type chair. This attachment point allows such table to rotate independently around the center support post of said chair and easily move to either side or front while not interfering with said chair's own swivel movement. Said table height can also adjust to accommodate the height adjustment of said chair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick Allen Goranson
  • Publication number: 20080231092
    Abstract: My invention is a new forward or moveable seat and a new aft or fixed seat designed to absorb FAA required horizontal and vertical crash loads without depending on the fuselage crumpling to absorb the energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Richard F. Silva
  • Publication number: 20080231093
    Abstract: A highchair assembly includes a seat supported by a plurality of legs with an upstanding back wall and opposite first and second side walls. An access device is mounted to one of the side walls. The access device has an upper end located generally at the one side wall and the lower end for placement on a support surface. A child can enter and exit the highchair through use of the access device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: RAPHAEL JOHN KOLENKO
  • Publication number: 20080231094
    Abstract: An occupant-detecting apparatus includes a plurality of load sensors (3a to 3d) configured to detect a load imparted on a vehicle seat (4), and an occupant-sitting determination device (2) configured to determine whether or not an occupant is seated on the vehicle seat (4), based on detected result of the load sensors (3a to 3d). The load sensors (3a to 3d) are configured to detect loads at different positions on the vehicle seat (4), and the occupant-sitting determination device (2) is configured not to perform occupant-sitting determination if an absolute value (? W) of a variable amount in a sum of detected result of the load sensors (3a to 3d) is lesser than a predetermined threshold value (TH/L).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Noriyuki Okawa
  • Publication number: 20080231095
    Abstract: The chair has a sub frame (1) set on the floor, a mechanism (2) set on the sub frame, a seat (3) set on the mechanism (2) and a backrest (7) attached to the mechanism (2). The backrest (7) exhibits a backrest frame (5), which supports an elastically deformable backrest part (6) with a back panel (62). The back panel (62) has a back part (60), to which a head restraint (61) is attached. The backrest (7) is capable of pivoting about a first pivot shaft (D1) from an essentially upright, neutral position to a reclined position displaced towards the rear. The movements of the seat (3) and the backrest (7) are synchronized with one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Egon Brauning
  • Publication number: 20080231096
    Abstract: A protective article or cover comprises a first layer and a second layer, means for coupling the first layer and the second layer, the first layer comprising an absorbent material, and the second layer comprising a moisture impermeable material. The protective article may further comprise an additional layer, wherein the first layer is disposed between the additional layer and the second layer, and wherein the additional layer comprises a light weight material. The protective article provides protection to an underlying surface, such as the fabric of furniture, and may further provide cushion to provide physical comfort to the user while the article is used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Arnel Edwin Doria Romero
  • Publication number: 20080231097
    Abstract: An insert for protecting the breathing airway of an infant conforms to the incline angle of an infant seat, such as a car seat, high chair, stroller, or jogger. Preferably the insert is hinged so it can be used in an infant seat or laid flat for use on a changing table or other flat surface. In use, two side rolls contact the infant to prevent it from moving sideways. A bottom roll prevents slouching in the seat and supports the infant's legs when laid flat. Preferably, the bottom roll is removable so the insert may be used with larger infants who do not need the provided support. An adjustable shoulder roll extends between the side rolls and can be moved up or down for proper placement behind the infant's shoulders. The shoulder roll compensates for the infant's rearward-elongated head, keeping it in a natural position to avoid compromising the airway. The rolls are preferably made of memory foam and covered by machine-washable fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Beth G. Rumack
  • Publication number: 20080231098
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for transporting a child comprising a lower enclosure supporting and protecting the legs and lower part of the child and an upper enclosure supporting and protecting the head and shoulders of the child, whereby said lower and upper enclosures each have a bottom and the device further comprises a first hinge for connecting the bottoms of lower enclosure and the upper enclosure and positioning means for positioning the enclosures relative to each other in a sitting position whereby the bottoms make an obtuse angle and in a lying position whereby the bottoms are approximately in one plane. In accordance with the invention each of the enclosures has fixed to its bottom opposite each other two side walls, and the positioning means comprise a brace supporting the side walls and at least one of the bottoms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Herman Van der Vegt
  • Publication number: 20080231099
    Abstract: A seat with an adjustable thigh support assembly includes a seat bottom with a rearward portion and a forward edge. The rearward portion is positioned to receive the buttocks of a person with the thighs extending beyond the forward edge. A thigh support has a rear edge and a forward edge with the forward edge extending generally horizontally beyond the forward edge of the seat bottom. The assembly further includes adjustable apparatus affixing the thigh support to the seat bottom for movement between a retracted position in which the rear edge of the thigh support extends below the forward edge of the seat bottom and an extended position in which the rear edge of the thigh support is in substantial juxtaposition with the forward edge of the seat bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Michael Przemyslaw Szczepkowski, David Joel Spykerman
  • Publication number: 20080231100
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a chassis for a reclining chair comprising at least two contiguous deformable quadrilateral segments, pivot points and at least two force-developing elements. Each quadrilateral segment has four rigid side members and four vertices. Each quadrilateral segment shares one of its side members with at least one other contiguous quadrilateral segment. The pivot points are located at each vertex of each quadrilateral segment. All pivot points have their pivot axis parallel to the pivot axis of the other pivot points. Each force-developing element independently provides a force to a corresponding one of the at least two quadrilateral segments. The invention also relates to a frame for a reclining chair made of two parallel chassis. A reclining chair made of this chassis and a kit for such a reclining chair are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: PBRD INNOVATIONS
    Inventor: Pierre Bellefleur
  • Publication number: 20080231101
    Abstract: A simple, compact and easy-to-assemble slide rail unit is provided. The slide rail unit reliably restrains right and left rails from sliding even when the right and left rails are installed onto the vehicle floor at an inclination angle different from each other in a longitudinal direction thereof. The slide rail unit includes a slide rail member having an upper rail member and an upper rail member slidably engaged with each other and a lock lever rotatably pivoted to the upper rail member so as to engage with/disengage from an engagement portion formed on the lower rail member. The slide rail unit also includes an operation lever connected to the lock lever within the slide rail member. Between the lock lever and the operation lever, a leaf spring member is disposed for connecting the lock lever and the operation lever therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Sakakibara, Mitsunao Koumura
  • Publication number: 20080231102
    Abstract: An assembly for mounting a seat on a track in a vehicle, the track including inboard and outboard parallel spaced apart track portions with each track portion including a lower track affixed to the vehicle and an upper track at least partially enclosing the lower track and reciprocally movable therealong. The assembly includes a pair of seat mounting plates associated with each inboard and outboard track portion with each pair including parallel spaced apart plates affixed to the seat and formed to partially enclose the associated track portion. A set of load pins is associated with each pair of seat mounting plates and extends between the associated seat mounting plates with one load pin of the set positioned below the lower track and another load pin of the set positioned above the upper track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Paul A. Elio, Hari Sankara Iyer, Robert E. Glaspie
  • Publication number: 20080231103
    Abstract: Hinge mechanism comprising first and second frames connected together by an adjustment device comprising a first set of gear teeth integral with the first frame and a first mobile toothed element engaging with the first set of gear teeth A second toothed element, mounted mobile on the second frame, engages with an additional set of gear teeth integral with the first frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Faurecia Sieges d'Automobile
    Inventor: Rene Rohee
  • Publication number: 20080231104
    Abstract: An outdoor vehicle seat is formed by placing a cushioning material on a bottom plate, and covering them with a surface skin, and fixing a surface skin end portion onto the bottom plate. Further, a highly water absorbing, highly moisture absorbing, and highly expanding member is arranged between the surface skin end portion and the bottom plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Yuichi Honma
  • Publication number: 20080231105
    Abstract: The spoked wheel comprises a rim, a hub and a plurality of spokes which connect the rim to the hub and are connected to the rim by means of nipples inserted in a corresponding plurality of drilled seats in the rim. The rim defines a concave outer cylindrical surface having a channel-like configuration with a bottom and a pair of flanks which extend from the opposing sides of the bottom of the rim. According to the invention, the rim includes a first rim part and a second rim part which are separate from one another, wherein the first rim part comprises a radially outer cylindrical portion forming the whole bottom of the rim and the second rim part comprises a radially inner cylindrical portion having the drilled seats. Preferably, the first and second rim parts are detachably joined together by threaded connection members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GIANETTI RUOTE S.P.A.
    Inventors: Giuseppe Ulisse Gittani, Gabrielle Perris Magnetto
  • Publication number: 20080231106
    Abstract: A bicycle wheel rim includes an annular rim body having a rim axis, and including left and right annular side walls, a pair of annular oblique walls, an annular base wall, left and right annular connecting walls, and a pair of annular tire-retaining ribs. Each of the left and right annular side walls has a radial outer edge. Each of the oblique walls extends obliquely from a respective one of the side walls toward the other one of the side walls. The base wall interconnects the oblique walls and has a radial outer side. Each of the left and right annular connecting walls extends from the base wall to connect to a respective one of the side walls. A radial distance between the radial outer side of the base wall and the radial outer edges,of the side walls ranges from 8.5 millimeters to 12.5 millimeters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: ALEX GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Chao-Ying Chen
  • Publication number: 20080231107
    Abstract: There is described a vehicle wheel for use in the recovery of vehicles, the wheel having a central opening and one or more apertures disposed around the central opening for attachment of the wheel to a vehicle axle, wherein the apertures take the form of slots, the slots having a length and being oriented to extend radially from the wheel axis. There is also described a kit comprising a plurality of such wheels, a method of recovering a vehicle using such wheels and a process of manufacturing such a wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen Michael Ascough
  • Publication number: 20080231108
    Abstract: A method of determining an initial pressure which prevails between a master brake cylinder and an inlet valve of a wheel brake cylinder of a motor vehicle brake system. It determines the initial pressure taking into consideration the variation of a follow-up voltage of a clock-operated motor of a pump, which is used for the return delivery of brake fluid from a low-pressure accumulator into the master brake cylinder. Several characteristic quantities of the voltage variation are measured and in each case taken into account to determine an initial pressure value, and the quality and/or reliability of the measured characteristic quantities is evaluated. The characteristic quantities and/or the initial pressure values determined therefrom are filtered and/or conditioned in the event of lack in quality and/or reliability of the measured characteristic quanitites.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Faouzi Attallah, Rudiger Mahlo, Guntjor Magel, Lukas Kroh, Frank Sikorski, Andreas Kohl, Jochen Muller
  • Publication number: 20080231109
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a brake apparatus in which a hydraulic pressure in a master cylinder is prevented from being increasingly varied while an anti-lock brake system is in operation, and therefore a pedal feeling can be improved. The brake apparatus comprises an electric booster including an input member which moves forward or backward in response to an operation of a brake pedal, an assist member which moves forward or backward by being driven by an electric actuator using an electric motor as its driving source. The electric booster generates a boosted brake hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder under an input thrust provided to the input member through the brake pedal and an assist thrust provided to the assist member by the electric actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Yukihiko Yamada, Tohma Yamaguchi, Takuya Obata, Hirotaka Oikawa
  • Publication number: 20080231110
    Abstract: An endless track chain device, comprises first and second links and a track chain joint. The track chain joint comprises a radial seal unit that inhibits ingress of debris between a bushing of the joint and the second link into a region between a pin of the joint and the bushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Patrick John Mulligan, Matthew Banowetz
  • Publication number: 20080231111
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for upgrading an existing service outlet (e.g. LAN, telephone, power or CATV outlet) in a house by adding functionality thereto. The functionality is added by an add-on module, connected electrically and secured mechanically to the existing outlet. Several attachment devices are exampled, including surface attachment, side clamping, snap locking, strap securing and fastening screws. The add-on module may include a service connector for retaining the basic existing outlet function. The module may be attached in a permanent way or by using a detachable solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Serconet Ltd.
    Inventors: Ami Hazani, Shlomo Butbul, Rafael Gil Koby, Yehuda BINDER
  • Publication number: 20080231112
    Abstract: On an aircraft, primary power distribution control and secondary power distribution control may be performed with a single line replaceable module (LRM) having an integrated architecture. The LRM may be provided with trip engines that are based on digital signal processors (DSP's). The DSP's may be programmed to allow the trip engines to perform either ELCU functions or SSPC functions. Use of the single LRM precludes a need for complex circuitry that might otherwise be required to coordinate prior-art independent ELCU and SSPC controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Randy J. Fuller, Zhenning Z. Liu, Milind Ghanekar, Ted J. Gayowsky
  • Publication number: 20080231113
    Abstract: An improved method of charging multiple batteries and battery powered devices of different types at one time. Utilizing multiple methods of supplying DC power to external batteries, a user can charge a variety of devices at the same time. The power is routed in three distinct ways: directly to the output ports, through resistors, and through a switch converter. Then, using methods established and known to one in the art, external electronic devices may be attached to the output ports. Thus, the external battery will be charged through whichever route delivers the proper voltage. This design utilizes the logic contained within the external device for charging purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Darren Guccione, Craig Lurey
  • Publication number: 20080231114
    Abstract: When a fault occurs in an energy distribution network, adaptive islanding is initiated to supply energy to customers who are disconnected from the primary source of energy on the network. The customers are selectively connected to secondary energy resources that are distributed within the network. The selected customers are chosen in accordance with a profile that takes into account the amount of energy available from the distributed resources, the expected length of time to repair the fault, the recent energy demands of the customers, and levels of priority that are assigned to respective customers. These factors are monitored, and the selected customers who are connected to the distributed resources are dynamically adjusted during the time that the fault exists.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: BPL GLOBAL, LTD.
    Inventors: Jeff Tolnar, Heidi Caroline, Larry Hymer, Michael Bauer
  • Publication number: 20080231115
    Abstract: The invention relates to a DC/DC converter design. The converter requires only one single inductor to draw energy from one input source and distribute it to more than one outputs, employing Flexible-Order Power-Distributive Control (FOPDC). It include a single inductor, a number of power switches, comparators, only one error amplifier, a detecting circuit and a control block to regulate outputs. This converter can correctly regulate multiple outputs with fast transient response, low cross regulation, and effective switching frequency for each output. It can work in both discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) and continuous conduction mode (CCM). Moreover, with FOPDC, future output extension is simple, making a shorter time-to-market process for next versions of the converter. The design can be applied to different types of DC-DC converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Gyuha Cho, Hanh Phuc Le
  • Publication number: 20080231116
    Abstract: A technique for operating a device at multiple different power levels dependent upon the amount of power received involves sensing the amount of power received and turning on circuit components or system functionality if power is adequate. A device constructed according to the technique should have the ability to detect at least two different, non-zero, power levels and turn on circuits or system functionality to the extent that sufficient power is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Michael R. Keenly, Zubin Sarkary, Marko Radojicic, Sudheer Poorna Chandra Matta, Philip Riley
  • Publication number: 20080231117
    Abstract: A power supply topology according to one embodiment includes a first path coupled to a controllable DC power source, a second path coupled to a rechargeable battery, and a third path coupled to a system load, the three paths coupled to a common node. The topology may further include a unidirectional switch coupled to the first path and a selectively unidirectional switch coupled to the second path. The topology may further include a power management control circuit including a wake up circuit having a comparison circuit and an output decision circuit. Of course, many alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible without departing from this embodiment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: O2MICRO INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Constantin Bucur, Vlad Popescu-Stanesti, Marian Niculae, Daryl Nees
  • Publication number: 20080231118
    Abstract: An uninterruptible power supply (“UPS”) is provided with a backup power supply that has an adjustable reserve power level that is based on a user's input. The UPS provides reserve power that can later be utilized to reactivate the UPS after a shutdown or deactivation state has occurred, when a user demand for reserve power is received. The UPS utilizes a rechargeable battery that can supply stored AC power when the AC power line input voltage level falls below a threshold level and a shutdown has occurred. The user can adjust the reserve level in proportion to her input and the user can later reactivate the UPS to supply stored AC power for a period of time. In one embodiment, the user can execute computer code on her computer that can remotely adjust the reserve power level, based on a measurement of the backup power available from the UPS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Jon Roepke