Patents Issued in November 20, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080284187
    Abstract: Apparatus and processes are disclosed that provide a microfabricated microtool having a mechanically actuated manipulating mechanism. The microtool comprises a tweezer having flexible arms, and an actuating mechanism. A biological, electrical, or mechanical component is grasped, cut, sensed, or measured by the flexible arms. The actuating mechanism requires no electric power and is achieved by the reciprocating motion of a smooth, rigid microstructure applied against the flexible arms of the microtool. In certain implementations, actuator motion is controlled distally by a tethered cable. A process is also disclosed for producing a microtool, and in particular, by micropatterning. Photolithography may be used to form micro-molds that pattern the microtool or components of the microtool. In certain implementations, the tweezer and actuating mechanism are produced fully assembled. In other implementations, the tweezer and actuating mechanism are produced separately and assembled together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: GEORGIA TECH RESEARCH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoonsu Choi, Mark G. Allen, James Ross, Stephen P. DeWeerth
  • Publication number: 20080284188
    Abstract: A system for mounting adjustable shelves (206) in mobile truck body-applications. The system includes integrated attachment means adapted to receive a cross-member (202) for affixing thereto. The integrated attachment means are integrated into the panels forming the compartments (102,112,114,116) of the body side pack. The system further includes one or more shelves (206), which include at least two slots, disposed along the periphery surface of the shelf (206) so as to receive a corresponding fastener (208). The cross-member (202) includes at least two slots, corresponding to the slots in the shelf (206), such that a fastener (208) extends through the slots to secure the shelf to the panel of the compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Randal L. Redman, Karl J. Bauer
  • Publication number: 20080284189
    Abstract: The invention relates to a loading space arrangement for a motor vehicle comprising a loading space (1) having a loading area, a loading space gate (3), which can pivot about an essentially horizontal axis and which has a holding surface, the loading area and the holding surface, when in a loading position, being located in a plane or in planes oriented approximately parallel to one another. The loading space arrangement has an essentially box-shaped transport device (5) that, in the loading position, can be detachably mounted on the holding surface of the loading space gate (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Alain Leroy, Heinz Pschorn, Robert Braun, Dirk Legler, Michael Koelbl, Oliver Vogt, Thomas Rudolph, Thomas Jakimenczuk
  • Publication number: 20080284190
    Abstract: An improved truck bed extender particularly adapted for ease of installation and removal. When not being used to extend the truck bed, the extender is advantageously adapted to quickly and easily create a secondary storage area. In one embodiment, the extender includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount. The connecting wall extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, and cooperates with the first side wall and second side wall to form a frame. The first mount is secured to the first side wall and includes a first interlocking member. The second mount is secured to the second side wall and comprises a second interlocking member. The first interlocking member and a first mounting station on the vehicle and the second interlocking member and a second mounting station on the vehicle cooperate to secure the truck bed extender to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: AMERICAN MOTO PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Horst Leitner, Jonathan Weisel
  • Publication number: 20080284191
    Abstract: A slide-out arcs between extended and retracted positions, with an outer end that is lifted so as to tip the slide-out inwardly when approaching retraction of the slide-out and that is lowered so as to tip the slide-out outwardly when approaching extension of the slide-out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Timothy D. Schultz, Craig J. Reske
  • Publication number: 20080284192
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides a slidable, retractable, and foldable cargo floor organizer with a rotatable and extensible retention net frame and associated cargo retention net for the rear cargo floor area of a vehicle. The system additionally provides an interior cargo tray having multiple partitions. The system includes a cargo retention net frame disposed about the interior cargo tray, wherein the cargo retention net frame is extensible, and a cargo retention net, the cargo retention net being disposed about the retention net frame, and wherein the cargo retention net is extensible and extends as the cargo retention net frame extends. The system provides for the secure containment of cargo in the rear cargo floor area of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Stephen T. Lim, Brett Ladetto, Aaron Schnepp, Louis A. Rhodes, Paresh Rana
  • Publication number: 20080284193
    Abstract: A tailgate damper for damping the lowering of a tailgate that is rotatably coupled along a tailgate shaft to a truck is provided. The tailgate damper can include a housing that has an inner cavity with a viscous fluid within the inner cavity. In addition, a seal can be located at a base of the inner cavity and be operable to keep the viscous fluid therewithin. A damping insert having a damping portion and a tailgate portion extending from the tailgate portion is provided, with the tailgate portion being able to attach coaxially to the tailgate shaft. The damping portion is located at least partially within the inner cavity of the housing and is in contact with the viscous fluid such that rotation of the damping portion is resisted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Z F Group North American Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: John Gleason, William P. Ryan, III, Daniel Dearing
  • Publication number: 20080284194
    Abstract: This invention is a tailgate for a pickup truck having a unibody frame that is pivotally secured at its lower end proximal the rear end of the truck bed. The frame includes a pair of linear risers that fit into the rear vertical recesses of the sidewalls of the truck when the tailgate is in a closed position. The risers support a plurality of bowed lateral beams that extend outwardly from the rear of the truck to extend the length of its cargo bay when the tailgate is in its closed. The bowed beams support a set of flat angled ramps that are aligned with the truck bed. The tailgate is swung to an open position so that the ramps extend down from the truck bed and are joined by a detachable ramp to form one or more low incline ramps for loading and unloading items into the cargo bay.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Steven N. Bower, Paul R. Haskins
  • Publication number: 20080284195
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a seat assembly and a floor. The seat assembly includes a lower seat member operatively connected to the floor, a seatback member operatively connected to the lower seat member, and a head restraint operatively connected to the seatback member. The seat assembly is characterized by an occupiable configuration and a stowed configuration. The seat assembly is configured such that movement of the seat assembly from its occupiable configuration to its stowed configuration causes the head restraint to rotate in a first direction and then a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Jennifer P. Lawall, Diane K. McQueen, Steven E. Morris
  • Publication number: 20080284196
    Abstract: A seat stowage system for a vehicle having a spare tire tub comprises a seat assembly including a seatback cushion having an occupiable surface and an opposing cargo load surface and a base cushion having an occupiable surface and an underside surface. A translational joint assembly operatively connects the seatback cushion and the base cushion. The translational joint assembly allows the seat assembly to transition between an occupiable and a stowed position while utilizing the foot well and not interfering with or obstructing the spare tire tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: James L. Luttinen, Anthony A. Bane
  • Publication number: 20080284197
    Abstract: A vehicle seat having a seat cushion may include a pair of slide devices disposed on a vehicle floor, a pair of lock devices respectively provided to the slide devices, and an operation mechanism of the lock devices. The slide devices are arranged and constructed to slide the vehicle seat on the vehicle floor. The lock devices are capable of releasably locking the vehicle seat at a desired position on the vehicle floor. The operation mechanism includes a synchronization member having an operation member. The synchronization member is disposed above the slide devices and is linked to the lock devices via a linking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicants: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA, AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tomokazu FUKUDA, Masahiro FUJIEDA, Yasuhiro KOJIMA
  • Publication number: 20080284198
    Abstract: A dashboard having a receiving structure for a portable terminal is disclosed, which comprises a space part which has an opening at its one side and where a portable terminal is mounted; and a support part which is provided in the interior of the space part and supports the terminal for preventing the movements of the terminal. And a dashboard having a receiving structure for a portable terminal is disclosed, which further comprises a cover which opens and closes the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Hee-Suk Ryu
  • Publication number: 20080284199
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for opening and closing a roof of a container for simply opening and closing a roof of a container using a sliding method without separating constitutional elements, and for opening and closing the roof by a small force. The apparatus comprises a pair of guide rails installed on top ends of both side walls of the container, respectively; cover supporting members disposed on the guide rails for supporting the cover, both ends of the cover supporting member being installed to be slid on the guide rails, respectively; sliding means for sliding the cover supporting member; and brace bars foldably connected to the cover supporting member for connecting the adjacent cover supporting members. The cover supporting member is slid along the guide rail to open and close the cover thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Byung-jin Chun
  • Publication number: 20080284200
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle employs a convertible roof system. The convertible roof system can include a roof cover and a top stack mechanism operable between raised and stowed positions. At least one roof bow can move between first and second positions relative to a forwardmost roof rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Dilluvio, Bradley R. Garska
  • Publication number: 20080284201
    Abstract: A sunshade apparatus for use with an automobile of the type having a roof is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of panels, the panels, in use, having respective retracted positions wherein they are disposed on top of one another in stacked relation on or in said roof, and each being movable from its retracted position to a respective extended position projecting beyond said roof. The panels are substantially coextensive with one another when viewed in overhead plan in their respective retracted positions. In their respective extended positions, the panels define a substantially contiguous sunshade extending beyond the roof both lengthwise and sideways with respect to the automobile. The apparatus also comprises a panel guide mechanism for constraining each panel for movement along a respective substantially linear path between its extended and retracted positions. An exemplary version of the apparatus can shade both the roof and the windows of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Zafar Aqeel
  • Publication number: 20080284202
    Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention provides a passive water management system for vehicle doors. One or more water management troughs are formed into the inner door panel of the vehicle door at least partially encircling one or more holes or opening through the inner door panel. Strips of adhesive material are provided proximate to and extending along each side of the water management trough. A water deflector sheet of water shedding material is secured to the inner door panel by the adhesive strips, such that the strips, water management trough and deflector sheet form a conduit for routing water to drain holes draining into the door cavity thereby preventing water incursion through the inner door panel openings from reaching the vehicle interior. A method of managing water seeping into a vehicle door is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Larry A. Filipczak, Brian R. Rusch, Luigi R. Magnanti
  • Publication number: 20080284203
    Abstract: 1. Drawing-out profile for a window blind of a vehicle. 2.1. The invention relates to a drawing-out profile (30) for a window blind of a vehicle, with two profile sections (40, 50) which extend in a main direction of extent (2) and can be connected to each other enclosing a preferably flexible sheetlike structure (20) of the window blind, wherein contact surfaces (40a, 50a) of the two profile sections (40, 50) bound an accommodating space for accommodating an end section of the flexible sheetlike structure (20). 2.2. According to the invention, the profile sections (40, 50) can be joined together in a form-fitting or frictional manner via associated connecting means (42, 46, 49, 52, 54, 59). 2.3. Use as a drawing-out profile which can easily be fitted. 3. FIG. 2a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Melf Hansen, Abdoul Coulibaly, Werner Schlecht
  • Publication number: 20080284204
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides a molded trim assembly located externally at the top of a liftgate structure to provide an aerodynamic and stylish overhang above the liftgate glass. Furthermore, the technology also provides a liftgate exterior module including a plug-in module containing a motorized window wiper arm assembly, a central high mounted stop light, and a washer fluid spray nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Frank A. Wojcik, Costantino Ranucci, Robert J. Faubert, Richard Manning, Kenneth J. Ladzinski, Raja Hazime, William G. Yadon
  • Publication number: 20080284205
    Abstract: A lightweight motor vehicle structural component is provided. The component has at least one fully-boxed section extending in a longitudinal direction, the fully-boxed section made from a single piece of sheet metal. In addition, the fully-boxed section has a generally U-shaped first portion which has an open side that is oppositely disposed from and in alignment with a second portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Z F GROUP NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Trevor J. Rossi
  • Publication number: 20080284206
    Abstract: Roll support structure padding for use in a motor vehicle having a roll support structure formed of interconnected rigid members. The padding is formed of a two component flexible integrated skin molded polyurethane. The padding is formed in generally elongate body having a recess for partially encasing the support structure members. The body has a thickness of approximately 2.5 centimeters and is compressible to gradually decelerate a vehicle occupant coming into contact with the padding. Sections of the padding are installed on the support structure to partially encase the support structure members in padding and provide protection from impact, for the operator of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: John Potocki
  • Publication number: 20080284207
    Abstract: A front frame structure for receiving a pivotally mounted truck driver's cab is provided. The structure includes a mounting bracket for the connection of the pivotable driver's cab, which mounting bracket is fastened to the frame structure at connecting points, and with at least two longitudinal frame members which extend essentially along the longitudinal axis of the truck in the upper region of the frame structure. The longitudinal frame members themselves are designed with at least one deformation region for absorbing frontal collision energy, and the mounting bracket is arranged and designed to pass on collision energy from the driver's cab to the level of the longitudinal frame members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Daimlerchrysler AG
    Inventors: Walter Bollinger, Alexander Hummel, Gerd Martin
  • Publication number: 20080284208
    Abstract: A vehicle cowl structure includes a cowl box including a closed cross-section, an inclined holding surface configured to hold a lower end portion of a windshield, an upper wall extending toward an interior of a vehicle cabin from an upper end of the holding surface, a vertical wall extending downward from an inside end of the upper wall, a bottom wall extending toward a front portion of the vehicle from a lower end of the vertical wall, and a recessed portion formed on the upper wall extending in a direction of the width of the vehicle, wherein the recessed portion is depressed toward an inside of the cowl box and is smoothly curved from the windshield holding surface to the vertical wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoko Kannan, Hiroyuki Iwanami, Tatsuzo Tomita
  • Publication number: 20080284209
    Abstract: An H-bridge drive circuit for reducing switching noises while preventing shoot-through current from flowing in the H-bridge circuit. The H-bridge drive circuit includes an H-bridge circuit for driving a load with a first power supply and a lower voltage second power supply. The H-bridge circuit includes first to fourth transistors. The first and third transistors are connected to the first power supply. The second transistor is connected between the first transistor and the second power supply, and the fourth transistor is connected between the third transistor and the second power supply. The load is connected to a node between the first and the second transistors and a node between the third and the fourth transistors. A control circuit switches the activation and inactivation of the first to fourth transistors so as to maintain at least either one of the second and fourth transistor in an activated state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Hidetaka FUKAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20080284210
    Abstract: An automobile hood bumper comprising, a sleeve-like seat (10) fitted with an axial passage (20) and an external thread (22) that can be screwed into a hole of a sheet-like support, an upper segment (12) having a rest head (26) and a shank (24), where a connection member (34) that joins the shank (24) to the seat (10) to release said shank when an axial force acting on the upper segment (12) exceeds a predetermined magnitude, whereby the shank (24) moves into the axial passage (20) until the rest head comes to rest at the associated end of said seat, a deceleration element configured at the outside of the shank (24) and/or in the axial passage (20) to generate a decelerating force by friction and/or by elastic/plastic deformation and to decelerate the penetration of the shank into the axial passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: ITW AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Christian Willrich Bauer
  • Publication number: 20080284211
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wind deflector (1) for motor vehicles, comprising a base element (2) that can be attached to part of the vehicle, an extension element (3), which is mounted so that it can pivot in relation to the base element, a displacement device (7) for pivoting the extension element (3) between a stored position and an extended position and at least one screening device (5, 6), which is provided at least in sections between the base element (2) and the extension element (3) and consists of a pliable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Philipp Oerke, Rainer Mathias
  • Publication number: 20080284212
    Abstract: The present invention provides an actuating device for a wind deflector device in a vehicle, with a roof opening and a roof closure element, wherein the actuating device has at least one actuating cable which can be coupled to a sun-shielding device, wherein the actuating cable can actuate the sun-shielding device when it is coupled to the sun-shielding device, wherein the actuating cable can be moved in a first direction in which the sun-shielding device uncovers the roof opening, wherein the actuating cable can be decoupled from the sun-shielding device in a predetermined position, and wherein, in the state in which it is decoupled from the sun-shielding device, the actuating cable can be moved further in the first direction and, in the process, can adjust the wind deflector device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Bernhard Wingen, Thomas Pongratz
  • Publication number: 20080284213
    Abstract: An arrangement and process for conversion of a single panel sunroof into a two panel sunroof uses corner adaptor pieces with planar sides that form an outside corner and a concave inner contour extending between ends of the planar sides, the contour being matched to a rounded corner curvature of a cover panel of a single panel sunroof, such that two such cover panels having corner adaptor pieces thereon can seal relative to the roof opening and relative to each other within the roof opening. A roller blind assembly enables a roller blind to be added by the provision of track inserts for guiding of the roller blind during opening and closing thereof, each of the track inserts being attachable at an inner side of a respective guide track on the sunroof frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: WEBASTO ROOF SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Lisa Marie POMEROY, Thomas MURRAY, Steven H. KLOTZ, Jean-Guy COCAIGN, Anthony Joseph SAMP, Norman Russell TAYLOR, Julius Joseph BEREGSZASZY, III, Michael Brett HEALY, Gregory L. BROWN
  • Publication number: 20080284214
    Abstract: A seat storage assembly is provided for an automotive vehicle having a floor, a roof, and a rear liftgate extending between the floor and the roof. A pair of spaced apart and parallel tracks is disposed along the floor and extends between fore and aft ends. A recess is formed in the floor rearward of the aft ends of the tracks. A second row seat is slidably engaged and pivotally coupled to the tracks for moving between forward and rearward seating positions, and a stowed position within the recess. A third row swing seat is pivotally coupled to the roof for moving between a seating position and a raised stowed position. Moving the third row swing seat into the raised stowed position enables the second row seat to move between the forward and rearward seating positions, and the stowed position within the recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Colin G. Neale
  • Publication number: 20080284215
    Abstract: A chair according to the invention is provided. The chair preferably includes a substantially square seat. The seat includes four walls. Each of the walls preferably projects substantially perpendicularly downward from one side of the outer perimeter of the upper surface. Each of the walls preferably includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. Each of the walls preferably includes a stability tab mounted on the interior surface. The stability tab is adapted to engage at least a portion of a chair that is stacked immediately beneath the folding chair. The chair also preferably includes a first rigid portion that is pivotably attached to the seat at a first set of two contact points. The first rigid portion includes a backrest. The second rigid portion is pivotably attached to the seat at a second set of two contact points. Finally, the chair may include a pair of connectors. Each of the pair may be pivotably attached to the first rigid portion and pivotably attached to the second rigid portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: NATIONAL PUBLIC SEATING CORP.
    Inventor: Barry Stauber
  • Publication number: 20080284216
    Abstract: A folding chair utilizes a gear train to control a folding motion and to achieve a compact closed form. While holding a handle integrated into a backrest, the weight of the chair allows it to open and unfold automatically into an open position. The folding chair locks in place in the open position. To refold the chair, a button is depressed to release the lock and the seat is pulled toward the backrest. The gear train refolds the front and rear legs. In the compact folded position, the lightweight chair can be carried with one hand in a relaxed position, similar to an attache case. The handle is contoured so that it is possible for an adult to carry two chairs back to back in each hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Robert P. Mayercheck
  • Publication number: 20080284217
    Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for covering a piece of furniture generally includes a base, a spool rotatably supported by the base, and a cover coupled to the spool. The apparatus may also include an attachment device for removably attaching a portion of the cover to the furniture piece for helping retain the cover's position relative to the furniture piece. The spool may be rotatable in a first rotational direction relative to the spool mount for winding the cover onto the spool. The spool may also be rotatable in a second rotational direction opposite that of the first rotational direction for unwinding the cover from the spool, to thereby allow the unwound cover to be placed generally over the furniture piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Noonan
  • Publication number: 20080284218
    Abstract: The invention provides a gas spring adapted for automatically re-adjusting to a predetermined position, the gas spring incorporating a delay mechanism so that the automatic re-adjustment is delayed by a predetermined amount of time. In one embodiment, the delay mechanism comprises a delay valve that. The invention further provides articles incorporating such a delay gas spring, such as a height adjustable chair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Robert King, Thomas Latone
  • Publication number: 20080284219
    Abstract: A vehicle headrest cover for covering a vehicle headrest having a display mounted therein includes a material designed to correspond with the shape and dimensions of the vehicle headrest and fit over the vehicle headrest for covering the vehicle headrest. The material has a cut-out in a face thereof which corresponds to the position of the display and also includes a zipper mechanism located on the material of the headrest cover which allows the material of the vehicle headrest cover to be zipped up to cover the vehicle headrest with the vehicle headrest cover or unzipped for removing the headrest cover from the vehicle headrest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: THEODORE W. KOONTZ, II, Michael J. Paladino
  • Publication number: 20080284220
    Abstract: The invention relates to an anti-whiplash vehicle seat for a motor vehicle, with a rear backrest covering, wherein the rear backrest covering includes a fixed side part and a central part, wherein the central part is mechanically fastened to the vehicle seat by a resilient element, and wherein the resilient element is fastened to the vehicle seat by a hook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: FAURECIA AUTOSITZE GMBH
    Inventor: Dieter Kraft
  • Publication number: 20080284221
    Abstract: Disclosed is an automotive seat the seat cushion level of which can be adjustable up-and-down, in which the safety is improved when a shock is applied to a vehicle. The automotive seat according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a level adjusting mechanism for adjusting the seat cushion level, and comprises a base frame, a seat cushion, a seat cushion frame, a space from which to the base frame being adjustable, a stopper which supports the sinking seat cushion frame at a rear end collision of an automobile. The stopper moves to narrow the space between the seat cushion frame and the stopper and supports the seat cushion frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Motohiro Fushikida, Atsushi Miyake
  • Publication number: 20080284222
    Abstract: A seat shell includes a plurality of adjustable cushioning elements each having first and second pads and configured to be non-positively attached to an essentially vertical frame section of a frame using an affixing device, wherein the first and second pads each have at least two openings configured as longitudinal slots for receiving each affixing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Detlef Draeger, Wilfried Oehlert
  • Publication number: 20080284223
    Abstract: A seat apparatus for a vehicle includes a seat cushion frame for supporting a seat cushion and operated to move between a first position and a second position relative to a vehicle floor, a link member including first and second ends respectively pivotably connected to the vehicle floor and to a first end portion of the seat cushion frame, a guiding member provided at the vehicle floor for supporting a second end portion of the seat cushion frame to the vehicle floor and including a guiding groove, and a sliding member provided at the second end portion of the seat cushion frame and slidably engaged into the guiding groove. The guiding groove extends along a connection line connecting the sliding member and a connection point between the seat cushion frame and the link member so as to move the seat cushion frame between the first position and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yukifumi YAMADA
  • Publication number: 20080284224
    Abstract: A vehicle seat for coupling to the floor of a vehicle comprising a seat back, a seat cushion, a first bracket, and a second bracket. The seat back is pivotable between at least a first position and a design position. The seat cushion is configured to be coupled to the vehicle floor. The first bracket is configured to be coupled to the vehicle floor and includes one of a keyed passage and a keyed pin configured to be received within the keyed passage. The second bracket is coupled to the seat back and includes the other one of the keyed passage and the keyed pin configured to be received within the keyed passage. The keyed passage is configured to receive the keyed pin only when the seat back is in a position the seat back will be prevented from assuming after the vehicle seat has been installed in the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Michael P. Hartmann, Timothy Butt, Steven Boye, Metodija Milevski, Chih-cheng Liao, Christopher James Cowan, Richard Hong
  • Publication number: 20080284225
    Abstract: A foldable head restraint has two head restraint supports set within a bracket. A latch is made integral with at least one of the head restraint supports. The latch rests against a stop to prohibit rotation of the head restraint support in a first direction. The latch rests against a rotational cam to prohibit movement of the head restraint support in a second direction. By rotating the cam, the head restraint support may be folded. The head restraint support is comprised of a metal substrate with over-molded plastic geometry to accept a mating part configured within the head restraint bun. The geometry of the metal substrate and over-molded plastic geometry allow for a reduction, or even elimination, of the slots that are normally required for such a folding head restraint. This ability to fold can yield greater rearward visibility and aid in the kinematic motion of the seat. An articulating head restraint could also include an armature with a cam. The cam has a lock acumination and a stop acumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Jeremy J. Gauthier, Rober R. Sutter, JR., Craig A. Ulman
  • Publication number: 20080284226
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly for supporting an occupant having a seat bottom, a seat back connected to the seat bottom and a reclining mechanism configured to adjustably position the seat back relative to the seat bottom. A head restraint assembly adjustably connected to the seat back includes a headrest and one or more guides connected to and cooperating with the seat back to position the head restraint adjacent an occupant's head. A headrest adjustment mechanism for adjustably positioning the headrest relative to the seat bottom includes a locking member that releasably engages the one or more guides and a cable that cooperates with the release mechanism and the locking member to adjustably position the head restraint when the release mechanism is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stefan Brunner, Markus Koidl, Tobias Bokelmann
  • Publication number: 20080284227
    Abstract: The invention relates to an armrest structure of the back-seat of the heavy-duty motorcycle; wherein, the structure is composed of a linking-sleeve and a handle set at both sides of the fix-base. One rectangular-and-hollow adjusting trough is respectively set at each side of the arc-shaped fix-base to facilitate bolts to be fixed around the cover of the oil box after penetrating; a penetrating-hole is respectively set at the outmost end of both sides to be slipped through by bolt for bolt's integrating with the bottom of linking-sleeve after slipping through; an open-cutting trough and a bolting-hole being reserved around the on-slipping hole, after the upper end of the linking-sleeve contacting with the on-slipping hole set at one end of the handle, the linking-sleeve and the handle will be integrated as one unit via the bolt's bolting force and the fortifying contact force of the open-cutting trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Yu-Chuan Yen
  • Publication number: 20080284228
    Abstract: A modular furniture system comprises a frame adapted to define a plurality of engagement sites and a plurality of components removably engagable to the frame at the plurality of engagement sites to define a piece of furniture. Each component is engagable to the frame at different positions thereon to facilitate a change in shape of the piece of furniture by rearrangement of the plurality of components relative to one another. The plurality of components are shaped and sized to be groupable together into a storage configuration when not engaged to the frame. In the storage configuration, the components are enclosable in a rectangular volume of lesser size than when engaged to the frame. Each component comprises a core body and a removable cover that shrouds the core with the plurality of components engaged to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Craig Alun Smith
  • Publication number: 20080284229
    Abstract: A stretching structure of a stretching material in a chair in which the ratio of the rear frame of a backrest to the outline of the chair is small, design is smart, weight is reduced, the number of parts is reduced, and assemblability is improved and the backrest of the chair. In the chair having the backrest formed by stretching the stretching material on the front surface of the rear frame, the rear frame comprises a front frame to which the peripheral edge part of the stretching material is fixed and an upper reinforcement frame rod. The laterally facing upper reinforcement frame rod is connected at its both ends to both ends of the laterally facing upper frame rod at the top of the front frame with the center part of the upper reinforcement frame rod separated backward from the upper frame rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Hiroshi Masunaga, Tetsuya Narita, Ryo Igarashi, Akira Kiyoku, Ken Nakayama
  • Publication number: 20080284230
    Abstract: In order to secure a shape retaining property of a support face of a backrest 1 of a chair, the backrest 1 for chairs comprises frame elements 21 and 22 arranged in pairs at right and left sides, a flexible support member 3 that bridges the frame elements 21 and 22 to support a load of a body of a seated person and an adjust mechanism that can change a bent degree of the support member 3 in multiple states and that can maintain the state against the load of the seated person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Kokuyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yojiro Kinoshita, Kenji Teshima
  • Publication number: 20080284231
    Abstract: [Problem] To provide a seat having a three-dimensional complex undulated cushion body securing hardness in a stress direction and excelling in dispersibility of the stress and durability, and a method of manufacturing the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicants: TS TECH CO., LTD., TEIJIN FIBERS LIMITED
    Inventors: Yasuchika Takei, Atsushi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20080284232
    Abstract: A coupling unit (1) for adjustably mounting a support structure (6, 7) in a seat frame is provided, comprising first connecting means (2, 3) for connecting the support structure (6, 7) with the coupling unit (1) and second connecting means (4, 5) for connecting the coupling unit (1) with a pressure-transmitting element (8, 9) like a Bowden cable, wherein said second connecting means comprise a pressure area for receiving pressure from the pressure-transmitting element. Furthermore, an adjusting mechanism comprising the coupling unit with which a support structure may be adjusted in a seat frame is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: L&P SWISS HOLDING COMPANY
    Inventor: Maxime Samain
  • Publication number: 20080284233
    Abstract: In the case of a vehicle seat, in particular a shell-type seat, having a backrest (4) over which a safety belt (G) can be guided in order to secure a seat occupant (F, M), the safety belt (G) can be placed in contact with a belt catch hook (10) that is attached to the backrest (4) and that laterally guides and/or holds a safety belt (G) engaged therein and allows a safety belt (G) disengaged therefrom to freely move laterally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: RECARO GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Stiegler, Frank Stunckel
  • Publication number: 20080284234
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a pick adapted to degrade man-made or natural formations has a steel body comprising a shank adapted for attachment to a driving mechanism. The pick also has a leading edge opposite the shank which has an inside edge. A bore is disposed in the steel body proximate the inside edge. A cemented metal carbide core is press fit into the bore. A reentrant is formed at least partially in the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Ronald Crockett, Jeff Jepson
  • Publication number: 20080284235
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, an apparatus for degrading natural and man-made formations includes a pick with an axially spring loaded pick comprising a central axis and being attached to a holder secured to a driving mechanism. The pick comprising a steel body with an axial shank disposed within a bore of the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Ronald Crockett, Francis Leany
  • Publication number: 20080284236
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a roller assembly has an axle that supports opposing faces of a cylindrical body that has a plurality of pointed inserts disposed along an outer diameter of the cylindrical body. At least one of the inserts has a tip with a polycrystalline diamond bonded to a cemented metal carbide segment. The diamond has a substantially conical geometry with a 0.50 to 0.200 inch radius apex and comprises a thickness greater than 0.100 inches at the apex. The roller assembly has an internal lubrication mechanism adapted to apply lubrication between the axle and the cylindrical body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Ronald Crockett, Sigmar Tobias