Patents Issued in October 21, 2010
  • Publication number: 20100264650
    Abstract: A drill pipe includes a pin end connector, a box end connector, a first communication connector and a second communication connector. The pin end connector includes a first region to form a threaded connection to join sections of the drill pipe together, and the first region includes at least one thread that begins at one end of the first region and ends at the other end of the first region. The box end connector receives the pin end connector, and the box end connector includes a second region to mate with the first region to form the threaded connection. The first communication connector is attached to the pin end connector and is located in the first region; and the second communication connector is attached to the box end connector and located in the second region to form a communication connection with the first communication connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: INTELLISERV, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Braden, Jean-Charles Rinaldi
  • Publication number: 20100264651
    Abstract: A plug connection, including a plug connector and a socket for an implantable medical device, and further including a sealing element which is sheared along the axis of the plug connector and which seals the lumen formed by the socket and the proximal end of the plug connector against the environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: BIOTRONIK CRM PATENT AG
    Inventors: Erhard Flach, Ronald Rebentisch
  • Publication number: 20100264652
    Abstract: The present invention provides a line connector having a junction part and hose connection piece for attaching and fastening a media hose-line, the hose connection piece having at its free front end a sealing portion with a circumferentially smooth sealing surface, free of molding seams, and, thereafter, a holding portion. The invention further provides a line assembly having at least one line connector and at least one hose-line attached and fastened thereto. The hose-line is clamped radially over its circumference in two axially spaced regions of its attached end, specifically, in a region of a sealing portion and in a region of a holding portion of the hose connection piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Reiner Mitterer, Bernd Steinbach, Ulrich Erb, Ulrich Hiltemann
  • Publication number: 20100264653
    Abstract: An environmental energy-saving power generator includes a power generation module, a control module, a power module, a power generator housing, and an I/O module. A processor unit of the control module controls the power management unit and the power management unit controls the power module to supply driving power required by a drive unit of the power generation module during operation; after the power generation unit of power generation module operates, the surplus power generated by the power generation unit, when generating power, can be re-charged to the power module. The environmental energy-saving power generator effectively manages and allocates the power of power module and that of power generation module to lengthen the time when the environmental energy-saving power generator supplies power to the load for operation. The power generation units of power generation module and the drive unit may generate high-efficiency power of voltage, current, and frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Der-Guey Bu, Kuo-Cheng Chung
  • Publication number: 20100264654
    Abstract: A new improved compact wind power turbine with multiple turbine blades and an isolated arrow point stationary nose is presented. Turbine blades (rotors) are connected to a circular cage, and at the center of the turbine, the isolated arrow point stationary nose points forward. Each turbine blade has a 90 degree right angle fin connected to its tip for capturing the force of the wind that applies to the blade tip, which otherwise spills over, reducing wind force and creating turbulence at the tip. The captured wind at the blade tip increases the rotational force on the turbine blades creating a greater rotational force than on other market-available wind turbines. Preferentially, the turbine is directed into the wind either manually, or by using a tail vane or other means for orientating turbine into a wind. A generator or alternator converts the mechanical power into electricity for use at industrial, commercial or home sites.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Romeo Prasad
  • Publication number: 20100264655
    Abstract: A system comprises a turbine engine having a first spool connected to a compressor portion, a power turbine spool, a first generator connected to the power turbine spool, and a second generator connected to the first spool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Randy Scott Rosson, Kevin Wood Wilkes
  • Publication number: 20100264656
    Abstract: A self-contained orbiting power plant receives and directs solar radiation as an energy source to heat the working fluid of a Rankine-type engine used to power an electrical energy generator and create a pseudo-gravity environment in which the buoyant force exists. Through the use of reflectors and alignment of the power plant with the solar radiation source, the low temperature of outer space is used as a heat sink to condense steam back into the liquid phase. The working fluid (e.g. water) is pressurized and heated to the elevated vaporization point and the expansion of the superheated steam is captured through rotation of the power plant in the microgravity environment. The steam is used to rotate an electrical generator turbine and a counter-rotation hull turbine. The steam is cooled by conductive heat transfer to a cooling fluid (e.g. liquid ammonia) which radiates excess heat to outer space, and to return the working fluid to the liquid phase for recirculation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Kerry A. Flood
  • Publication number: 20100264657
    Abstract: The invention refers to a floating mechanical structure suitable for realizing a mega-plant for generating electrical energy, by exploiting the relative motion of a large number of electromagnets mounted on a floating structure, with respect to a multiple number of permanent magnets incorporated in a pendulum suspended from the top of a trestle acting by magnetic induction on the electromagnets; the swings are provoked by wave action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Vito Antonio Catinella
  • Publication number: 20100264658
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power station on a submerged floating platform consisting of a floating structure (1) submerged at a certain depth, where it is moored by means of guy lines (2) with respect to ballasts or mooring buoys (3) located in the aquatic bed, arranging on said floating structure (1) hydraulic pumping mechanisms (5) which are operated by the weight differential of the water column between the crests and the troughs of the waves when such waves pass over them, in combination with a pneumatic system acting as a spring in said mechanisms (5) for operating an electricity-generating turbine (8) through a hydraulic closed circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Manuel TORRES MARTINEZ
  • Publication number: 20100264659
    Abstract: A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float and a spar for guiding the up and down movement of the float in response to the waves. A power take off (PTO) device coupled between the float and the spar and mounted within one of the float and spar such that the PTO includes apparatus responsive to the mechanical interaction of the float with the portion of the spar in proximity to the float for converting their relative motion into useful energy. In one embodiment the PTO includes a linear rack extending along an external portion of the spar and a linear to rotary converter, mounted within the float, including a double sided toothed belt for engaging the rack and causing rotation of the rotary converter to drive an electric generator. In another embodiment the PTO includes tires mounted within the float which rotate as the float moves up and down. In another embodiment the PTO includes a rack and pinion arrangement with one of them connected to the spar and the other mounted in the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Wei-Ming Chi, Philip R. Hart
  • Publication number: 20100264660
    Abstract: To provide a water flow electric power generator capable of generating electric power for a long period of time, the water flow electric power generator including: an underwater rotating body (32) configured to rotate by a water flow (11); a driving liquid pressure pump (34) configured to hold a front end (52) of the underwater rotating body (32) at a predetermined position under water; a power transmission unit (40) configured to transfer a rotational power of the underwater rotating body (32) held by the driving liquid pressure pump (34) to above a water surface (9); and an electric power generator (39) disposed above the water surface to be driven by the power transferred by the power transmission unit (40), wherein the underwater rotating body (32) includes: a body portion (51) having a streamline shape from a front end thereof to a rear end thereof; a supporting portion (33) located between a front end of the body portion (51) and the driving liquid pressure pump (34) to be able to swing in a direction i
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: NOVA LABORATORY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kiyomi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20100264661
    Abstract: A wind turbine or other rotary device has its outer perimeter constructed with coils that form a rotor (26) of an electrical generator. A stator assembly (52) is positioned at the lower perimeter of the path of the rotor and includes stator halves that are juxtaposed the moving rotor for generating electricity. The stator halves include an air bearing that provides substantially frictionless contact with the rotor, allowing the free rotor to move with a minimum of resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Publication number: 20100264662
    Abstract: The wind turbine 20 has sail wings 92 that catch the wind and rotate the turbine wheel 22. The sail wings may be twisted about their longitudinal axis 94 to form pitch and twist in the said wings. A generator is movably positioned in an arc of movement of the turbine wheel and adjusts to the lateral movement of the turbine wheel. Air and liquid cooling is provided to the coils of the rotor and stator of the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Publication number: 20100264663
    Abstract: A wind turbine 20 has a turbine wheel 22 with a perimeter rim 24 and/or an intermediate rim 117 that are concentric with the axis of rotation of the turbine wheel. Electrical generators 46 and 48 are placed in engagement with the rims, with the generators formed in pairs that engage opposite surfaces of the rims. The electrical generators are mounted so that they may move laterally in response to the axial “wobble” likely to occur in the rims of the turbine wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Publication number: 20100264664
    Abstract: In the generator arrangement according to the invention at least one main bearing is arranged between the generator and the hub wherein the rotor of the generator is supported only on the front end of a rigid carrier in the form of a support disc (30). The support disc is a hollow chamber structure of low weight and high rigidity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Andreas Lauke
  • Publication number: 20100264665
    Abstract: A lightning protection system is provided, typically for use on an outer surface of an aircraft, which includes the use of a lightning protection sheet that includes an electrically conductive film and at least one patterned, electrically non-conductive discriminator layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Larry S. HEBERT
  • Publication number: 20100264666
    Abstract: A wind park, a method of correcting voltage imbalances, and a wind turbine are provided. The wind park includes at least one wind turbine; a transformer coupled between the at least one wind turbine and a power grid. The transformer includes a primary winding arrangement coupled to the power grid, and a secondary winding arrangement coupled to the at least one wind turbine. The power grid includes at least three power lines, each power line conducting a respective phase of a multi-phase current. Each power line of the power grid is coupled to the primary winding arrangement via an individual tap changer. Influences of the detected voltage imbalances on the wind turbines can be compensated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventors: Yin Bo, Heng Deng, Ove Styhm, Kim B. Larsen
  • Publication number: 20100264667
    Abstract: A wind turbine or other rotary device for generating electricity has its outer perimeter constructed with coils that form a rotor (26) of an electrical generator. A stator assembly (52) is positioned at the lower perimeter of the path of the rotor and includes stator halves that are juxtaposed the moving rotor for generating electricity. The stator halves include magnetic bearings that provide substantially no contact between the rotor and the stator, allowing the rotor to move with a minimum of resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Publication number: 20100264668
    Abstract: A device for converting mechanical centrifugal energy into electrical energy. This invention having a weighted gear that spins around a shaft and engages a torque increasing gear train to wind a spring. The force of the wound spring is unleashed by means of a clutch and switch assembly and thus engages a second gear train that increases speed and is connected to the shaft of a DC motor through a series of gears. The DC motor sends the created electrical energy to a first circuit board assembly that increases the electrical energy output and transfers the increased electrical energy to a capacitor where the electrical energy is stored. There is a second circuit board assembly, which takes the overflow of the electrical energy that is stored within the capacitor and transfers the electrical to a rechargeable battery that is encased within the master assembly thus providing a charge to the said battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony Shane Hughes, SR.
  • Publication number: 20100264669
    Abstract: An improved generator frame includes a grappling attachment feature and theft-deterring weight receptacle for adding weight on-site. In one method of using the improved generator frame, concrete or metal components may added to the weight receptacle to increase the overall weight of a generator assembly to deter its theft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Douglas G. Peacock, Charles Derek Hibdon
  • Publication number: 20100264670
    Abstract: In a starter for starting an internal combustion engine with a first output shaft to which a ring gear is coupled, a motor has a second output shaft to which a movable pinion member is coupled and is operative to, when energized, rotate the second output shaft. A solenoid device includes a solenoid actuator linked to the movable pinion member. The solenoid actuator is configured to, when activated, shift the movable pinion member toward the ring gear to be engaged with the ring gear. The solenoid device includes a solenoid switch configure to, when activated, energize the motor. The solenoid actuator and the solenoid switch are integrated with each other to provide the solenoid device. A controller module is configured to individually control an activation of the solenoid actuator and an activation of the solenoid switch. The controller module is mounted on the solenoid device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinji Usami, Yasuyuki Yoshida, Mitsuhiro Murata, Masami Niimi, Hideya Notani, Kazushige Okumoto, Akira Kato, Mikio Saito
  • Publication number: 20100264671
    Abstract: A latching mechanism to connect a cover to a housing includes a catch and a catching portion. The catch is disposed on the cover. The catch includes a latching end and a connecting portion. The catching portion is defined in the housing. The catching portion includes a first hole and a second hole communicating with each other. The first hole is larger than or substantially equal to the diameter of the latching end, the second hole is larger than the connecting portion and smaller than the latching end, and a joint of the first hole and second hole is smaller than the diameter of the connecting portion. The present disclosure further provides an electronic device including the latching mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventor: ZHOU-QUAN ZUO
  • Publication number: 20100264672
    Abstract: A double slide arm spring mechanism for biasing a primary mechanism to home position after operation and retaining the primary mechanism in the home position pending further operation. The double slide arm spring mechanism includes a pair of slideably interlocking arms each having a longitudinal frame member and a spring engaging flange at each end. The frame members are a disposed to engage one another while permitting relative sliding of the arms. The slide arms are interlocked such that one flange of each arm is situated between the two flanges of the other arm. Two compression springs are retained between the flanges of the arms such that sliding of either arm toward the other necessarily compresses both springs. Potential energy stored in the springs returns the slide to its neutral position when the operator is released thereby also returning the operator to its neutral position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Philip C. Ellis
  • Publication number: 20100264673
    Abstract: A latching system for releasably securing a first member to a second member in a closed position. The latching system includes a command latch assembly comprising a hook latch assembly including a handle selectively movable from a first handle position toward a second handle position and a hook member adapted to selectively engage a first keeper when the handle is in the first handle position and to disengage from the first keeper when the handle is moved to the second handle position. The latching system also includes a remotely located slave latch assembly comprising a pin latch assembly adapted to secure a second keeper to the pin latch assembly when the handle of the hook latch assembly is in the first handle position and to disengage the second keeper when the handle of the hook latch assembly is moved to the second handle position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Zeljko Baic
  • Publication number: 20100264674
    Abstract: A gate (106) includes a panel (112) movable relative to a fixed member (110) between an open position and a closed position. A linkage (140) is pivotally mounted to the panel (112) about a latch pivot axis. A catch (130) is pivotally mounted to the linkage (140) about a catch pivot axis spaced from and parallel to the latch pivot axis. The catch (130) is movable between a latched position engaged with the fixed member (110) and an unlatched position disengaged from the fixed member (110). The catch (130) defines a groove for slideable receipt on the fixed member (110). When the catch (130) is in the latched position and the panel (112) is in the closed position, the catch (130) abuts against opposite sides of the fixed member (110) along an extended length such that forces are applied on each side at spaced locations to resist twisting forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Richard B. Stoffels
  • Publication number: 20100264675
    Abstract: A panel lock includes a stationary support base adapted to mount to a frame of an article near a panel mounted on the article. The panel lock also includes a panel-movement blocker mounted to the stationary support base to block selectively movement of the panel from a closed position to an opened position at the option of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim R. Varney, Bryan R. Hotaling, John MacNeill
  • Publication number: 20100264676
    Abstract: A locking assembly partially housed between a forward bulkhead and an aft bulkhead of an aircraft's fan duct for preventing a pivot door of a thrust reverser from inadvertently opening during flight and providing over-stow assistance during opening and closing of the pivot door. The locking assembly may comprise a lock arm configured to mate with a lock arm receiver fixed to the pivot door. The lock arm may have a first portion pivotally attached to a locking assembly housing mounted between the bulkheads, and a second portion extending aftward through an opening in the aft bulkhead. When the lock arm is pivoted away from the pivot door, the second portion may be configured to push inward against the lock arm receiver, urging the pivot door inward while simultaneously moving the lock arm away from the lock arm receiver to allow the pivot door to open outward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Spirit AeroSystems, Inc,
    Inventors: Joe E. Sternberger, Michael Lallement
  • Publication number: 20100264677
    Abstract: An electronic locking system for vending machines or the like is provided for locking and unlocking the machine preferably with a remotely controlled electronic operating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: William D. Denison, Calin Roatis
  • Publication number: 20100264678
    Abstract: A gripper device, having two rotably connected gripper arms substantially longer than the length of the trigger handle structure, is taught. The arms open when the handle is squeezed and close when handle is released. Each arm has a set of grip and hold hooks. Together, the first grip and hold hook on each arm grips and holds a pair of socks for putting on, while the second grip and hold hook grips and holds socks on a wearer's foot for removal. The device grips and holds up to 25 pounds and grips and lifts up to five pounds. A thumb lock can lock the jam plate into a position relative to the plunger rod providing for unrestricted upward and downward movement of the rod, but when in unlocked position the plunger rod has unrestricted downward, but restricted upward motion allowing for the setting of many width openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph E. Rolling, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100264679
    Abstract: A suction hold hand which sucks and holds a hold target without contact by using negative pressure produced at a central portion of turning flow of gas generated in a turning flow generating chamber and gas flowing from the end to the side of the turning flow generating chamber, includes: a suction pad having a suction hold surface to which a suction blowoff hole of the turning flow generating chamber opens; and a gas blowoff device which has a plurality of blowoff holes disposed to oppose to a sucked surface substantially continuous to a surface of the hold target sucked by the suction pad to face the suction hold surface, the blowoff holes being located in such positions as to apply compressed gas to the sucked surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Tomonori MORIYA
  • Publication number: 20100264680
    Abstract: In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure a support structure includes a contact surface configured to deform, a base section configured to receive the contact surface, a first set of ribs extending from the contact surface toward the base section and inclined in a first direction, and a second set of ribs extending from the contact surface toward the base section and inclined in a second direction, in which the first set of ribs and the second set of ribs are disposed such that there is no contact with each other in a relaxed position, and in which the first set of ribs and the second set of ribs are configured to deform and contact each other upon application of a force to the contact surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shinya Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20100264681
    Abstract: A cargo van includes an integral structural bulkhead to separate a passenger compartment from a cargo area. The cargo van is designed such that the bulkhead wall contributes to the structural rigidity of the vehicle for purposes of meeting National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requirements. That is, without the bulkhead, the cargo van would not meet NHTSA requirements. By designing the vehicle in this way, the overall vehicle weight is reduced as compared to vehicles in which bulkheads are optional add-ons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Hadrian A. Rori, David B. Busch, Rollin E. Nothwehr
  • Publication number: 20100264682
    Abstract: A barrier for a vehicle that includes first and second substantially identical sections. The first and second sections are adapted to reside in a vehicle footwell between first and second vehicle seats. Each of the sections includes opposite first and second main panels, opposite first and second side panels extending between the first and second main panels, and opposite first and second end panels extending between the first and second main panels and between the first and second side panels. A thickness of each section is defined by the distance between the first and second main panels and the thickness is substantially equal to the shortest distance between the first and second seats. One of the first and second side panels includes a mating surface having a fastener for coupling the first and second sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: DONNA HELLER
  • Publication number: 20100264683
    Abstract: A center stack is provided for a vehicle that includes, but is not limited to a housing and a panel that includes, but is not limited to operating elements, preferably for an audio system and/or an air conditioning system. The panel is movable to a closed position and to an opened position and the housing comprises a glove box with an opening to a passenger compartment of the vehicle. The opening of the glove box is completely covered by the panel in the closed position of the panel and the opening of the glove box is accessible from the passenger compartment in the opened position of the panel. With the inventive center stack it is possible to provide a center stack for a vehicle which is very functional and increase the safety of a c-driver in case of a crash.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Lasse ARO
  • Publication number: 20100264684
    Abstract: A visor (100) for a vehicle is disclosed. The visor comprises a visor body formed of a vehicle panel material having a rigid core (122) and a cover layer (124) coupled to an outer surface of the rigid core. The visor body has a first body portion (116) and a second body portion (118). The visor further comprises a carrier (104) configured to support at least one accessory associated with the visor. The first body portion and the second body portion at least partially conceal the carrier. A method of manufacturing a visor for a vehicle is also disclosed wherein the visor is formed from a material used to form a vehicle panel such as a vehicle headliner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Christopher Kring, Ben E. Sapak, Albert C. Haak, Dennis J. VanHouten, Eric C. Asselin, William J. Homik
  • Publication number: 20100264685
    Abstract: A motor vehicle with a center drive tonneau cover assembly for covering a convertible top in a stored configuration is provided. The assembly has a tonneau cover with a linkage system that pivotally couples the cover to the vehicle. The linkage system can have a center link that is located generally along a longitudinal center portion of the vehicle body. The linkage system is operable to move the tonneau cover between a closed position and the open position in which the center link occupies free space between the tonneau cover and the convertible top in the stored configuration within the storage compartment. In addition, with the center link provides free space between a side portion of the tonneau cover and an adjacent portion of a side body panel of the vehicle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Neubrand
  • Publication number: 20100264686
    Abstract: A cabriolet top for a cabriolet vehicle for displacement between a closed position covering a vehicle interior and a storage position opening up the vehicle interior is proposed, comprising a pivotably mounted cabriolet-top linkage on which a rigid cabriolet-top element is arranged, said cabriolet-top element extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle, being adjacent, in the closed position of the cabriolet top, to a transverse post bounding a windscreen at the top, and, together with the cabriolet-top linkage, stretches open a foldable cabriolet-top cloth and, in the storage position of the cabriolet top, is arranged on the upper side in a cabriolet-top storage compartment such that the cabriolet-top cloth runs downwardly over a rear border of the cabriolet-top element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: WEBASTO AG
    Inventor: Uwe Fladung
  • Publication number: 20100264687
    Abstract: In an arranging structure of a wire harness for a door, the wire harness is spanned between a door of a motor vehicle and a vehicle body at an indoor side inside of a weather strip. The wire harness is drawn out from a space between a door inner panel and a door trim at the door side and is provided with an excess length portion that follows opening and closing operations of the door. The excess length portion is drawn out from the space when the door is opened. The excess length portion is drawn along an arcuate outer periphery of a speaker disposed in the space to be contained in the space when the door is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventors: Morihiko Toyozumi, Isao Tsuji, Daiki Nagayasu, Tsutomu Sakata, Tetsuya Fujita, Sung-Jin Kim
  • Publication number: 20100264688
    Abstract: A power, split tailgate system is provided that allows each of an upper and a lower tailgate door to be simultaneously or independently driven between open and closed positions. The tailgate system may be operated in a chauffer mode where the lower tailgate door is opened to allow for the storage of luggage and other materials and in a manner that limits exposure of the passenger compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Land Rover
    Inventors: Jonathon Paul Anthony Cheal, Andrew Warburton, Bharat Jina
  • Publication number: 20100264689
    Abstract: A passenger vehicle is provided with a body having an interior with a passenger compartment and a rear cargo region accessed through a rear opening. A liftgate and tailgate are pivotally coupled to the body at an upper and lower periphery of the opening respectively, and engage one another to enclose the opening. The liftgate and tailgate each enclose a portion of the opening in a closed position and provide access to the rear cargo area in an open position. A passenger vehicle is provided with a vehicle body having an interior and a rear opening with a first and second region facing generally upwards and rearwards respectively, both regions providing access to the rear cargo area. A rear closure assembly encloses the opening, provides access to the rear cargo area, and has first and second members pivotally connected to the body to enclose the first and second regions respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel William Lounds
  • Publication number: 20100264690
    Abstract: A side skirt system for reducing drag on a trailer includes a side skirt wall configured to be coupled to one side of the trailer to extend below a side wall of the trailer along a length of the trailer. A mounting bracket assembly of the system is coupled to the side skirt wall and is configured to be coupled to a floor assembly of the trailer. The mounting bracket assembly is configured to tilt laterally outwardly and laterally inwardly with respect to a generally vertical axis parallel to the side wall of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: James Bruce Brown, Leonard William Baker
  • Publication number: 20100264691
    Abstract: A side underride cable system configured to be coupled to a trailer includes a front mounting bracket assembly configured to be coupled to the trailer, a rear mounting bracket assembly configured to be coupled to the trailer at a location spaced-apart from the front mounting racket assembly, and a plurality of cables configured to extend at least partially along a length of each side of the trailer between the front mounting bracket assembly and the rear mounting bracket assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Richard J. Giromini, Leonard William Baker, Rodney P. Ehrlich, Francis S. Smidler
  • Publication number: 20100264692
    Abstract: A system that attaches an edge-supported curved metal plate floor (41) to a load carrying body (28) of a vehicle, such as a truck or rail wagon, is disclosed. The attachment system includes a series of tensile members (43) that are connected directly or indirectly at opposite ends to the plate floor (41) and the body (28) of the vehicle and the tensile members (43) are at least the principal means for transfer of forces from the floor plate (41) to the body (28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Alan William Dickerson
  • Publication number: 20100264693
    Abstract: Methods of prestressing a vehicle structural member include forming a support structure, applying a preformed reinforcing component to the support structure, the preformed reinforcing component having a size changing material that changes in dimension upon application of a stimulus and transforming the preformed reinforcing component from a first configuration to a second configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Umesh N. Gandhi
  • Publication number: 20100264694
    Abstract: A machine (A) includes a frame (16) and a platform (58) on which a boom assembly (B) is mounted. Two arms (332) of a U-shaped pivotal member (330) are pivotably mounted to the frame (16) about a first pivot axis (380) perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the frame (16). A front end (302) of a mounting plate (310) is pivotably connected to an intermediate section (336) of the pivotal member (330) about a second pivot axis (382) perpendicular to and spaced from the pivot axis (380). Two rams (400) are mounted on opposite sides of a rear end (304) of the mounting plate (310). Each ram (400) includes a lower end (404) pivotably connected to the frame (16) and an upper end (402) pivotably connected to one of the sides of the mounting plate (310). The boom assembly (B), the mounting plate (310), and the pivotal member (330) pivot about the first pivot axis (380) and/or the second pivot axis (382) relative to the frame (16) due to relative movement of the rams (400).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Patrick Lee Crawford
  • Publication number: 20100264695
    Abstract: A cab for a vehicle has an inset mesh screens along opposite side walls that define window openings through which an operator can view the surroundings, and the window opening is covered with a window assembly including a sliding window panel. The sliding window panel has a latch member that extends through a slot in the mesh screen, and a spring loaded knob that will seat in detents in the mesh screen at selected positions along the slot. The spring loaded knob is on the interior of the cab and is secured in place. The inset of the mesh screen forms a recessed receptacle for the window assembly so window panels of the window assembly do not project outwardly beyond the side surfaces of the cab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Aaron G. Hill, Joshua F. Maus, Gary J. Homola, Maria C. Homola
  • Publication number: 20100264696
    Abstract: A power machine having a frame, an engine, a cab defining an operator compartment having an access opening, and a door capable of being attached to the cab adjacent the opening is discussed. A hinge includes first and second hinge components attached to the cab and the door, respectively. A hinge securing mechanism for securing the second hinge component to the door is attached to the door. The mechanism includes a shaft with a handle moveable between first and second positions coupled to its first end and a protrusion extending radially proximal to its second end. The shaft extends through a bore in the door so that the handle is proximal to an interior surface and the protrusion is proximal to an exterior surface of the door. The shaft extends through an aperture in the second hinge component when the second hinge component is mounted to the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Lance Tuhy
  • Publication number: 20100264697
    Abstract: A finish panel for a vehicle may include a panel substrate, a skin layer disposed over the panel substrate, and a foam layer. The panel substrate may include a base portion, an upper sealing surface and a lower sealing surface. The upper sealing surface and the lower sealing surface may be oriented in a step configuration. The skin layer may include an upper skin and a lower skin joined together to form a seam. The seam may include an overlap seam and at least a portion of the overlap seam may be positioned on the lower sealing surface such that there are no obtrusions in an A-surface of the skin layer. The foam layer may be disposed between the skin layer and the panel substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan-Michael Francis Stachura, Warren Jing-Po Chou, Jonathan Joseph Quijano
  • Publication number: 20100264698
    Abstract: An interior finish panel for a vehicle may include a panel substrate, at least two pieces of skin disposed over the panel substrate, and a foam layer. The panel substrate may include an inclined portion disposed between a base portion and at least one sealing surface. The at least two pieces of skin may include an upper skin and a lower skin joined together at a seam, wherein the seam may be at least partially disposed over the inclined portion. The seam may be sealed to a vertex of the inclined portion between the inclined portion and the sealing surface. The foam layer may be disposed between the at least two pieces of skin and the panel substrate. The foam layer may taper from the base portion towards the vertex of the inclined portion and terminate along the inclined portion before the vertex of the inclined portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan-Michael Francis Stachura, Warren Jing-Po Chou, Daniel Brian Gidcumb, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100264699
    Abstract: A floorboard assembly for vehicle, comprising a front floorboard (2) and a middle floorboard (6) that are connected in a fixed manner or formed integrally, wherein, the front floorboard (2) is in ridge shape, roughly flat at both sides and raised in the middle, the raised part in the middle defines a cavity which is suitable for accommodating a battery for vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Xiangzheng Wang, Xiaoliang Shang