Patents Issued in December 16, 2010
  • Publication number: 20100314872
    Abstract: A method for providing an output power to a load is described. The method includes coupling a multi-thread power converter system to an alternating current (AC) generator and to a load and monitoring at least one operating characteristic of the AC generator. The method also includes providing the multi-thread power converter system with one of a first switching pattern and a second switching pattern based at least partially on the at least one monitored operating characteristic. The method also includes configuring the multi-thread power converter system to operate in accordance with the first switching pattern and the second switching pattern and to convert an AC input power provided by the generator to an output power for delivery to the load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Robert Gregory Wagoner, Anthony Klodowski
  • Publication number: 20100314873
    Abstract: An auxiliary drive/brake system for a wind turbine includes an impulse, high torque motor, a gearbox transmission, a drive shaft, and a transfer gearbox that connects to either the wind turbine low-speed shaft or to the wind turbine gearbox. Control of the auxiliary drive/brake system is performed by a programmable computer-based motor drive control system in combination with instrumentation and sensors fitted to the rotating wind turbine components. Torque and horsepower created by the present auxiliary drive/brake system is transferred into the wind turbine low-speed shaft where it combines with the torque and horsepower created by the wind acting on the wind turbine rotor blades, the combined torque and horsepower is transferred from the wind turbine low-speed shaft into the wind turbine gearbox and the wind turbine generator, causing the wind turbine generator to operate and produce electricity which is supplied to the power company.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Stone
  • Publication number: 20100314874
    Abstract: A system and method for operating a wind energy installation or wind farm. The system includes a control unit configured to process control variables and a transfer module. The transfer module has an input interface for receiving control commands and an output interface for transmitting control variables to the control unit. The transfer module has multiple transfer logic elements each configured to convert a control command to a control variable. The transfer module has a switching device for switching between the transfer logic elements. As a result, the wind energy installation or wind farm can be connected to an electrical grid in which the control commands are transmitted in a different format than that of the control variables of the control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: REpower Systems AG
    Inventors: Roman Bluhm, Sebastian Friederich, Jens Altemark
  • Publication number: 20100314875
    Abstract: A system for controlling the RPM of a wind turbine comprising using inverters to draw current from the wind turbine, thereby slowing the rotational speed of the wind turbine blades. In another aspect, a resistor and a switching mechanism attached between the resistor and a phase line is provided to increase the load on the phase line. A yaw motor is also used to yaw the facing direction of the wind turbine out of the wind. Moreover, a normally closed switching mechanism can redirect current from a phase line through a resistor. A normally closed brake is also used to mechanically engage the turbine when the control system fails. A normally open yawing clutch when disengaged allows the nacelle of the wind turbine to rotate freely into the down wind direction. The system also comprises a switch that can create an electrical short between the phase lines of the turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Bernard Grant
  • Publication number: 20100314876
    Abstract: The present invention is a wind turbine solar control system. This system may be applied to various types of wind turbines that use a start-up motor or will be able to be turned efficiently using a sun powered motor. A rechargeable battery is used to hold enough power to start the propeller for a predetermined amount of time. Wind sensors will be included to determine if enough wind is present to turn the propeller on. A control box may be included to designate when to turn the motor on and off. It also controls how much to charge the battery and regulates when to stop charging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: KEVIN E. FRAYNE
  • Publication number: 20100314877
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine includes a main compressor section for compressing air, a main combustor section positioned downstream of the main compressor section, a main turbine section positioned downstream of the main combustor section, and a spool extending from the main compressor section to the main turbine section. A second turbine is fluidically connected to the main compressor section by a bleed passage. An electrical generator is mechanically driven by both the spool and the second turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventor: Adam M. Finney
  • Publication number: 20100314878
    Abstract: A hydrogen/oxygen combustion system of direct steam generation of motive flow, with the capacity to regulate and control temperature and pressure conditions, enabling the use of spontaneously generated motive flow in turbine-driven power generating system applications. Steam is generated directly by the combustion reaction between hydrogen and oxygen gas fuel stocks, temperature-regulated by the injection of water into the body of super-heated steam generated by such a reaction. Motive body temperature is controlled by the absorption of heat inherent in the vaporization of water-injectate; regulation of temperature is a function of the ratio of water to feed-stock gas, injected into the motive body. Motive body pressure is regulated by controlling the total flow of gas fuel stocks and water into the combustion chamber of the steam-generating engine. Exhaust steam is compressed and ported to the next engine, or from a final stage to the condenser for recovery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Monte Douglas DeWitt
  • Publication number: 20100314879
    Abstract: A chimney has a lower portion substantially in the shape of a pyramid and an upper portion forming a cylindrical portion that extends with a predetermined dimension upwardly and is provided in a ceiling portion of a building of a coil yard that is used for temporary storage of the hot-rolled coil which is an intermediate iron and steel product acting as a high-temperature heat radiator that is manufactured using the hot-rolling equipment of an iron and steel mill. A power generating turbine is provided at a predetermined position in the cylindrical portion. An intake duct is provided on a lower end portion of the side walls of the building. Hot-rolled coils that are in a high-temperature condition after manufacture are successively imported into the coil yard and accumulated and stored until transfer to a subsequent processing step. An ascending airflow is generated by sequential heating of air introduced into the building from the intake duct using heat retained in the hot-rolled coils.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Otsuka, Hisakazu Onizuka, Shinsuke Matsuno, Takahisa Nagao, Yoshiyuki Yamane, Atsushi Hirata, Kazuo Miyoshi, Masahiro Nakajima
  • Publication number: 20100314880
    Abstract: An electrical power generating system is connected to a sewer for conveying waste water to a sanitary treatment station. Waste water is propelled through the sewer line by pumping equipment which simultaneously pulverizes most large objects carried by the waste water. The waste water drives one or more water-operated turbines. The turbines are operatively connected to electrical power generators for producing electrical power and dispersing the power through an electrical power transmission system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cripps
  • Publication number: 20100314881
    Abstract: An auxiliary drive/brake system for a wind turbine. The auxiliary drive/brake system includes an impulse, high torque electric motor connected to a motor drive control system which controls the impulse high torque electric motor. The auxiliary drive/brake system further includes a gearbox transmission, a drive shaft, and a transfer gearbox that connects to either the wind turbine low-speed shaft or to the wind turbine gearbox. The drive system provides impulse operation of the wind turbine. Control of the auxiliary drive/brake system is performed by an electronic speed control in combination with either a motor drive control system or an electronic variable speed drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Stone
  • Publication number: 20100314882
    Abstract: Wind power turbine comprising a tower (11), a supporting frame (41) and a drive train including a rotor hub (13), a main shaft (21) supported by a front bearing (43) and a rear bearing (45), a generator (31), located at an opposite side to the rotor hub (13) with respect to the tower (11), with a generator shaft (23) rigidly connected to the main shaft (21), and a coupling element (39) between the generator housing (33) and the supporting frame (41) which is placed in a plane substantially coincident with a perpendicular plane (Y-Z) to the main shaft (21) axis (X) in the center of the rear bearing (43) and it is made so that it allows displacements of the generator housing (33) in the direction of the main shaft (21) axis (X) but blocks turning displacements of the generator housing (33) with respect to the main shaft (21) axis (X).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Mogens Christensen
  • Publication number: 20100314883
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for damping oscillations in a wind turbine comprising a wind turbine tower, a nacelle arranged on top of said wind turbine tower, and a number of rotor blades rotatably connected to the nacelle. The oscillations to be damped originate from forces induced on the nacelle and the wind turbine tower by the rotating rotor blades. The method comprises the steps of providing an internally suspended pendulum mass structure being operationally connected to an upper tower section, providing a platform being fixedly attached to the upper tower section, and providing damping means comprising one or more friction members being displaceably arranged relative to the platform, the one or more friction members being adapted to be displaced relative to the platform in response to relative movements between the suspended pendulum mass structure and the platform in order to dissipate energy from the suspended pendulum mass structure by friction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventor: Borge Ollgaard
  • Publication number: 20100314884
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wind turbine (1) comprising a wind turbine tower (2) having a tower wall (22), a wind turbine nacelle (3) positioned on top of the tower (2) and noise reducing means (8) for reducing noise emission from the tower (2). The noise reducing means (8) comprises a beam (9) formed as an elongated strengthening member and one or more damping means (20), where the damping means (20) are arranged between the tower wall (22) and the beam (9), the damping means (20) being arranged so that relative movement between the tower wall (22) and the beam (9) result in dissipation of energy via the damping means (20) in order to reduce noise emission. The invention further relates to a method for reducing noise emission from a wind turbine tower (2) and use of a wind turbine (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventors: Borge Ollgaard, Erik Billeskov Sloth
  • Publication number: 20100314885
    Abstract: A wind turbine comprises a turbine shroud and optionally an ejector shroud. The wind turbine encloses a permanent magnet ring generator. A static ring of phase windings is located in the turbine shroud, and wind airflow causes a rotor having permanent magnets thereon to rotate, creating an electric current in the static ring. The permanent magnets are arranged to form a Halbach cylinder with the magnetic field being exterior to the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: FLODESIGN WIND TURBINE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Walter M. Presz, JR., Michael J. Werle, Thomas J. Kennedy, III
  • Publication number: 20100314886
    Abstract: An aircraft adapted to house a wind funnel, a wind diffuser, and a wind turbine configured to convert airflow flowing through the wind funnel into electricity is provided. The aircraft may feature a diffuser that increases the airflow through the wind funnel to increase power production. An electrical cable between the aircraft and a ground station transfers the generated electricity from the aircraft to the receiving ground station for distribution. In other embodiments, an aircraft featuring a plurality of buoyant bodies, wind funnels, diffusers, and turbines are coupled to a truss to form a module that generates electricity from airflow. In one embodiment, a plurality of modules may be interconnected to form a module array that is secured to a ground station responsible for receiving the electricity generated. Certain embodiments feature pitch control lines to control the pitch of the aircraft and modules facing the airflow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Lynn Potter
  • Publication number: 20100314887
    Abstract: A system in an electric vehicle converts the mechanical energy resulting from movement of the vehicle chassis to electric energy. The system has one or more energy conversion units including an alternator with a rotatable shaft and a weighted fly wheel fixed to the shaft. A female receptor on an end of the alternator shaft is disposed in spaced, axial alignment with a male driver on the end of a spiral ratcheting shaft that is operatively engaged with a pivoting lever and the chassis of the vehicle, whereupon upward and downward motion of the chassis frame causes the male driver to move between engagement and disengagement with the female receptor. A ratchet mechanism drives rotation of the spiral ratcheting shaft upon engagement of the male driver with the female receptor, thereby rotating the female receptor, flywheel and alternator shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Michel Joseph Khoury, Vasa Jovanov
  • Publication number: 20100314888
    Abstract: A process for the integration of an air separation apparatus and of a steam reheat cycle is presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicants: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'EDtude Et L'Exloitation Des Procedes Georges Claude, Siemens Vai Metals Technologies GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Marie Cognard, Richard Dubettier-Grenier, Jens Juckel, Patrick Le Bot
  • Publication number: 20100314889
    Abstract: A latch assembly includes a body having an accommodating space, two pairs of retaining recesses, a window, and a resilient element; a carrier received in the accommodating space and having one end pivotally connected to the body and an opposite end abutting against the resilient element; a driven member received in the accommodating space and abutting against the carrier, the driven member including a main shaft, a guide post, and a notched portion corresponding in position to the window of the body; and a driving member having a connecting portion to be inserted into the window and coupled with the notched portion of the driven member so as to form a loose fit with the driven member. When the connecting portion is inserted into the window and coupled with the notched portion, the driven member is drawn by the driving member to move and rotate within the retaining recesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: SOLTEAM ELECTRONICS, CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ya-Hsiung Wang, Chi-Meng Phang
  • Publication number: 20100314890
    Abstract: A powered striker mechanism for mounting to a support structure and for engagement with a latch mechanism to close a door. The powered striker mechanism may include a striker and a drive mechanism. The striker may include a front post that is capable of engagement with the latch. The drive mechanism may be secured to a housing, wherein the drive mechanism is engaged with a worm gear to drive a cam. A taumel gear may be driven by the cam, wherein the taumel gear includes an output post. A slide plate may be located adjacent to the housing and a slot may be located in the slide plate, wherein the post may move the striker linearly along the slot to pull the door closed. The drive mechanism may alternatively utilize a rack and pinion configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Todd Hemingway, Walter Pipp, Bill Teller
  • Publication number: 20100314891
    Abstract: An assault grill for attachment to a vehicle is disclosed, the assault grill being configured for impacting doors in such a way that the door is deflected upwards. The grill includes a support member, one or more longitudinal support members, and two or more lateral members. In one embodiment, a first lateral member and a second lateral member are spaced different perpendicular distances from the longitudinal support member. In another embodiment, a line through a center of the first lateral member and a center of the second lateral member forms an angle with a line parallel to the longitudinal support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: OC, LLC
    Inventor: David Acosta
  • Publication number: 20100314892
    Abstract: A kit of tools for carrying and installing a post is disclosed. The kit comprises a pair of carrying tools for lifting a post. Each tool comprises a handle and a gripping portion formed as a loop for surrounding and supporting an object to be lifted and a stabilising formation that engages with an upper surface of an object to be lifted, the tools being used to lift the object from opposite ends. Additionally, the kit includes an installation tool for installing a post in a hole. The installation tool comprises first and second components that can be pivotally interconnected. Each component has a handle portion and a gripping portion. Upon interconnection of the components, the gripping portion forms a continuous loop through which a post can be passed. Movement of the handle portions in a direction upwardly in use causes gripping portions to move towards one another to grip a post placed between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Barry Evans
  • Publication number: 20100314893
    Abstract: The present invention is a foldable device for retrieving golf, tennis, or other balls. The invention comprises an elongated shaft having handles at one end and a pair of elongated arm members hinged to the shaft at an opposite end. When fully deployed, the arm members form a V-shaped collection member adapted to be moved along the surface of a putting green or tennis court to gather scattered balls within a first region of the collection member and then collect the gathered balls within a second region of the collection member for eventual lifting and transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Robert E. Pearson, William R. Gwin
  • Publication number: 20100314894
    Abstract: It is an object to provide a fixing jig which can unmovably suction a chip group produced by segmenting a semiconductor wafer into pieces, and can suction one chip by detaching the chip selectively and reliably from the chip group. A fixing jig 3 is composed of a jig base 30 and an contact layer 31. A concave part 2 is formed on one side of the jig base 30. The concave part 2 is sectioned into small chambers 15 by a partition 12 having a height almost equivalent to that of a sidewall 35. The contact layer 31 is disposed on the upper edge of the sidewall 35 and the partition 12 for covering the concave part 2. A through hole 17 that is communicated with the outside is formed in each small chamber 15.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: LINTEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenichi Watanabe, Takeshi Segawa, Hironobu Fujimoto
  • Publication number: 20100314895
    Abstract: An assembly and method for releasably connecting a gripper finger to a robotic arm needing only manual manipulation to operate. The assembly includes a finger body having a quick-change bar connected to a locking lever. The locking lever can be rotated by hand to engage and disengage the assembly to connect a finger to a gripper connected to a robot. The locking lever provides a sleeve and pin which interact to lock the assembly. The sleeve and pin can have recessed surfaces formed to interact with roll pins or screws to restrict behavior of the quick-change device during engagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: RE2, Inc.
    Inventors: Nabil Michael Rizk, Mark DeLouis
  • Publication number: 20100314896
    Abstract: A console is provided for a vehicle, in particular a central console, with a container and at least one storage space that is arranged inside the container, as well as with at least one cover incorporated in the container to close the at least one storage space. In such a console, the container incorporates a first cover and a second cover. The first cover is mounted in the container so that it can pivot around an axis on its side facing away from the second cover and the first cover exhibits a storage space on its side facing the storage space of the container in relation to its closed position. The console ensures that the vehicle passengers in rows of seats arranged one right behind the other in the vehicle are provided with good access to the storage space of the console, without in the process excessively restricting the space conditions in the rear row of seats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Valter Skibinski, Alikhan Kuljanov, Karim Giordimaina, Min Lee Kyung
  • Publication number: 20100314897
    Abstract: An improved device for attaching a truck top or appliance fitted with an angle on its base, which rests on a profile attached to the top of the side walls of the vehicle bed and standby parts for coupling to accessories to be used, thus making possible the installation and removal thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: MARLON MELO DINIZ
  • Publication number: 20100314898
    Abstract: A multi-purpose container adapted to be carried by a wheeled vehicle, such as a pick-up truck or utility type trailer, or used by itself in a fixed location. In its alternative embodiments the container may be used for fixed storage or transport of goods. The container comprises cooperating structural elements including a floor, side and end walls and a roof, which elements are separately formed from suitable structural material such as foam-core panels or structural-grade sheet plastic and assembled by suitable joining means. An openable door panel completes the structure. Alternatively, the structural elements are formed as an integral unit from blow-molded structural-grade plastic or molded fiberglass, with a cut-in door opening and separately attachable door panel. The container features rain-shielded ventilation openings and reinforced hard points for securing the assembled unit to the bed of a vehicle, and for securing cargo within the container during transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: David Hawkinson
  • Publication number: 20100314899
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multiple hitch holding system for use in a cargo bed comprising: a plurality of holding bins; and a mounting mechanism, where said holding bins are affixed to the mounting mechanism and said mounting mechanism attaches the plurality of holding bins to a cargo bed side wall. In one exemplary embodiment, the mounting mechanism includes a rectangular tube and the plurality of holding bins is aligned in parallel along one side of the rectangular tube. The rectangular tube may include at least one opening at a first end and a second end, where said openings provide a mechanism for insertion of fasteners. The fasteners provide a mechanism secure the hitch holding system to an inside wall of the cargo bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: STEVE SLACKS
  • Publication number: 20100314900
    Abstract: Interfering double images that occur with curved windshields made from laminated glass during night driving in transmission and with head-up displays in reflection can be reduced by a wedge-shaped thermoplastic intermediate film. The wedge-angle profile required for compensation of double images is determined locally as a function of pane shape and installation situation. If the vehicle has a head-up display system, the wedge-angle progression can be determined in the HUD field such that double images are prevented there in reflection. However, outside the HUD field, a wedge-angle progression that compensates double images in transmission is selected. The specifically adapted wedge-angle profile enables better compensation of double images than is possible with a film with a constant wedge angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Saint-Gobain Glass France
    Inventors: Michael Labrot, Volkmar Offermann, Jean-Edouard De Salins
  • Publication number: 20100314901
    Abstract: A vehicle cover includes an inner layer of flexible material configured to removably cover at least a portion of a vehicle. The vehicle cover includes a waterproof outer layer of flexible material operatively coupled to the inner layer to protect the inner layer from external environment elements. At least one solar cell is operatively coupled to at least one of the inner layer and the outer layer. The vehicle cover includes a first plug separated from the solar cell. Wiring is in electrical communication with the solar cell and the first plug and travels between the inner and outer layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Winstun Glasgo
  • Publication number: 20100314902
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly comprising a tailgate box and at least one link designed to be fitted on the box. The box is designed to receive a part that is fastened to the box by adhesive, said box having for this purpose an adhesive track, the box also including at least one lateral upright comprising a section member of open cross-section with the opening therein interrupting the adhesive track. The link comprises an additional segment of adhesive track, and the link and the upright being shaped so that the link can be fitted on the upright in such a manner that it closes the cross-section of the section member and causes the additional segment to span the interruption in the adhesive track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: COMPAGNIE PLASTIC OMNIUM
    Inventors: Franck Leterrier, Bertrand Hache
  • Publication number: 20100314903
    Abstract: A rear hatch assembly of a vehicle includes a hatch frame pivotally connected to a vehicle body at a first pivot axis such that the hatch frame is capable of movement relative to the vehicle body about the first pivot axis. A tailgate is pivotally connected to the hatch frame at a second pivot axis such that the tailgate is capable of movement relative to the hatch frame about the second pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig Paul Voyer
  • Publication number: 20100314904
    Abstract: An example cart includes a body establishing an opening for loading and unloading items from the body and a skirt extending downwardly from a portion of the body. A plurality of support ribs span between the body and the skirt. The support ribs establish a lifter receiving area together with an outwardly facing surface of the body and an inwardly facing surface of the skirt. A feature is disposed on an outwardly facing surface of the skirt. The feature indicates the location of the lifter receiving area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Shawn Kruse, DANIEL BARBALHO
  • Publication number: 20100314905
    Abstract: A bulkhead and a bulkhead are provided in a rocker so that a portion of the rocker, which portion is subject to bending due to buckling, is positioned between the bulkheads. If the portion of the rocker is bent due to buckling, for example, at the time of vehicle collision, a bulkhead is caught between the bulkheads, and absorbs a load applied to the bulkheads. In this way, when the rocker is deformed, the load is absorbed by the bulkhead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Takeo Mori
  • Publication number: 20100314906
    Abstract: Provided is a front structure of a vehicle 1, and the front structure includes a pair of side members 30, a first cross member 10, a bumper 60, upper protruding-plate portions 41, lower protruding-plate portions 42, and a bracket 70. Each of the side members 30 includes an upper plate 31, a lower plate 32, and a vertical plate 33, the upper plate 31 and the lower plate 32 arranged to vertically face each other, the vertical plate 33 connecting the upper and lower plates 31 and 32. The first cross member 10 connects front-end portions 35 respectively of the side members 30. Each of the upper protruding-plate portions 41 extends frontwards integrally from the corresponding upper plate 31. Each of the lower protruding-plate portions 42 extends frontwards integrally from the corresponding lower plate 32 so as to face the corresponding upper protruding-plate portion 41.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
    Inventors: Noriyuki Miura, Tatsuji Ooeda
  • Publication number: 20100314907
    Abstract: A vehicular hood structure, which can generate more properly a load reaction to be inputted to a collision member, even if the collision member collides against the vicinity of an intermediate position between a hood general portion and a portion close to a hood front end edge so that a load acts to deform a hood inner panel of the hood general portion and a hood lock reinforce of a hood front end portion. A rear end portion of the hood lock reinforce is joined, at a leg extending to the hood back side at a portion spaced at a predetermined distance in the hood width direction, to a flat portion of the hood inner panel. In this hood inner panel, a crush bead is formed along the hood width direction at the substantially central portion of a skeleton portion in the hood length direction, and a small bead is formed at the substantially central portion of the flat portion in the hood width direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Iwano, Katsuyoshi Ito
  • Publication number: 20100314908
    Abstract: A ROPS-capable cab frame beltline support member for a vehicle cab frame which includes left and right rear corner posts. The beltline support member extends between the rear corner posts and is spaced apart above the lower ends of the posts. The support member includes first and second parts welded together. The support member includes a central portion, a left end fixed to the left rear corner post and a right end fixed to the right rear corner post. The central portion is offset rearwardly with respect to its left and right ends. The first part includes a midportion, a left flange portion and a right flange portion. The midportion has a C-shaped cross sectional shape. The midportion of the first part has a wider upper side, a back plate and a narrower lower side. The second part includes flanged ends and an elongated member having a first edge which engages an inner surface of the first part, and having a side surface which engages an edge of the first part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Robert Lee Wood, JR., Trace Dustin Landers, Wayne Douglas Mugge, Charles Nicholas Warren
  • Publication number: 20100314909
    Abstract: A joint for an automotive vehicle may be formed by applying an adhesive to at least one of a first member and a first surface of a composite member, placing the first member in contact with the first surface of the composite member, applying an adhesive to at least one of a second member and a second surface of the composite member, positioning a divot portion of the second member within an aperture of the composite member, placing the second member in contact with the second surface of the composite member, attaching the divot portion of the second member with the first member and curing the adhesives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicants: UNITED STATES COUNCIL FOR AUTOMOTIVE RESEARCH, United States Automotive Materials Partnership, LLC
    Inventors: John P. Fuchs, John D. Fickes, Erik Arthur Banks, Elisabeth Jane Berger
  • Publication number: 20100314910
    Abstract: A stamping tool for forming a stamped metal panel used as part of a pillar of a motor vehicle is provided. The stamped metal panel is arcuate and has a u-shaped cross-section, the arcuate panel including a transitional portion so as to avoid a die lock condition. The tool includes an upper die, and a lower die, and transitional portion surfaces. The transitional portion surfaces tapers as the transitional portion surface extends from the ends of respective upper and lower dies to a first point. The transitional portion is substantially tangential with at least the first wall surfaces of the dies to facilitate removal of the panel from between upper and lower dies of a stamping tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime Nicole Moore, Stuart W. Bailey, Nobiaki Kitaura
  • Publication number: 20100314911
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure comprises body side panels each comprising a roof mounting surface, a roof panel having opposing sides, and a brazed joint attaching the roof panel to the body side panels along a line of contact. The roof panel comprises a raised bead portion on each side of a central portion, character lines having sloped surfaces extending downward from each raised bead portion to the central portion, and a side mounting flange at each side of the roof panel that curls under the raised bead portions. Each side mounting flange has a line of contact with a corresponding roof mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Shawn Michael Morgans, John Patrick Joyce
  • Publication number: 20100314912
    Abstract: A canopy for electric vehicles is composed of extruded profiles containing shelves for placement of photovoltaic panels, inside ceiling, integrated gutter and curtain slides, and a special universal rail system which allows the canopy to be mounted on vehicles of different brands with different horizontal distances between the uprights supporting the canopy of this type of vehicles, where the design of the profiles, linking them together, a ceiling with inlaid metal lattice, together with photovoltaic panels and the uprights also offers a more effective protection against the harmful effects of lightning than the known types of canopies, and a special control box is utilized that allows photovoltaic panels to be connected in parallel which reduces the harmful effects of shade on the panels and maximises the energy that may be transferred to different and higher battery voltages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: SOLARDRIVE APS
    Inventors: Borge Christensen, Alastair Murrey Hoegh Persson, Kim Ahrenfeldt Petersen
  • Publication number: 20100314913
    Abstract: An open roof construction for a vehicle is provided, comprises a roof opening defined in a stationary roof part of the vehicle. A roof assembly having a movable panel for opening and closing said roof opening, of which panel the rear end, as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the car, can be moved upward and downward by a moving mechanism comprising at least a tilting lever having a first end slideably and rotatably engaging the stationary roof part and an opposite second end rotatably engaging the panel, wherein the first end of the tilting lever is drivable by drive means for its sliding motion relative to the stationary roof part and wherein the tilting lever for realising its rotational movement comprises a follower positioned between its first and second ends cooperating with a guide curve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.
    Inventors: Eduardus Christianus Henricus Van Boxtel, Peter Christiaan Leonarus Johannes Manders, Marcel Johan Christiaan Nellen, Sander De Bie
  • Publication number: 20100314914
    Abstract: A chair is provided that permits a chair user to configure the chair to accommodate uneven terrain. The chair user manually grasps a strap, additionally grasps the chair at another location, and moves the strap toward the top of the chair. The strap movement releases in a coordinated manner a group of telescoping leg posts from their fixed securement, whereupon the telescoping leg posts individually adjust to respective heights such that a seating portion of the chair is supported at a level disposition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Paul John Mazzola, Fred Heys
  • Publication number: 20100314915
    Abstract: A safety device for children, specifically a cover for use with a variety of surfaces that provides a barrier to protect a child from the heat and/or contamination of a surface. In some embodiments, the device can prevent a child from being burned or uncomfortable by the heat of a swing seat or car seat by minimizing thermal transfer between a child's skin and the swing seat for an adequate amount of time. In some embodiments, the cover can be used in a planar configuration as a changing pad or play mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Ginelle Mills
  • Publication number: 20100314916
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chair (20) comprising a gas-filled ball (8) and a base (1) which encloses the ball (8) at least in a lower region of the ball (8), the base (1) comprising a base plate (4). The base (1) has an internal diameter which is chosen in relation to the diameter of the ball (8) in such a manner as to laterally immobilize the ball (8) in the base (1). The ball (8) is at least partially covered by a fabric or netting (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Sylvia Tepe-Walser
    Inventor: Thomas Walser
  • Publication number: 20100314917
    Abstract: A saddle adjusting device is slidably disposed on a seat tube and comprises a seat body. The seat body is provided on a top end thereof with a saddle and includes a through portion for insertion of the seat tube. The seat body is provided with at least one seat tube clamp for clamping the seat body on the seat tube and further provided in a middle portion of the through portion with a hollow portion laterally penetrating the seat body and plural engaging grooves. The seat tube is fixedly provided with a bolt for cooperating with the engaging assembly. The engaging assembly can move along the bolt in a direction vertical to the axial direction of the seat tube to make protruding portions of the engaging assembly engage into or disengage from the engaging grooves for adjusting the position of the seat body relative to the seat tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Shu-Erh HSIEH
  • Publication number: 20100314918
    Abstract: An active head restraint for supporting the head of an occupant, includes a shell, and an actuator disposed within the shell, wherein the actuator further includes a spring-biased bar linkage system pivotally coupled to the shell, a radial ratcheting sector coupled to the linkage system, a pawl selectively engaging the sector, and a solenoid drivenly coupled to the pawl, and configured, when activated, to cause the pawl to disengage the sector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul W. Alexander, Leigh A. Berger, Michael G. Carpenter, Dale M. Drew, Michael E. Kilpinen, Clayton J. Hayes, James A. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100314919
    Abstract: The invention is of a PORTABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDING, STOOL AND CARRYING CASE. The stool frame is easily folded together and placed into the upholstered seat top, which when zippered together, acts as a carrying case. In this folded and enclosed form the stool becomes easily transportable to any location where seating is desired. The stool framework and seat top consists of the following basic elements: a) A center threaded shaft with a graspable handle surface at mid point. b) An upper and lower threaded locking bolt freely turning on the threaded shaft, above and below the center handle. c) A minimum of three seat support arms, hinge-connected to an upper pinning device, which is securely anchored to the upper end of the center, threaded shaft. d) A minimum of three lower legs, hinge-connected to a lower pinning device, which is securely anchored to the lower end of the center, threaded shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: William Charles Jackson
  • Publication number: 20100314920
    Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a side support capable of supporting a side portion of the torso of an occupant seated in the seat. The seat has a seatback capable of being tilted up or down relative to a seat cushion. A support shaft extending from a lateral surface part of the seatback in a widthwise direction toward an outside of a vehicle is rotatably supported by a bracket. A spring for urging the seatback in a forward-tilting direction is disposed between the support shaft and the bracket. The bracket and the spring are positioned proximately to a rear surface part of the side support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuji Arata, Kazuyuki Kaneko
  • Publication number: 20100314921
    Abstract: There is provided a chair and multimedia player comprising a sound transmission apparatus performing human-body communications. The chair and multimedia player comprise at least one sound transmission apparatus, wherein the sound transmission apparatus is disposed in a surface of the chair and multimedia player to allow a user to hear a sound signal when the user is in contact with or adjacent to the surface, and the sound transmission apparatus generates a composite signal including a sound signal and a demodulation signal restoring only the sound signal from the composite signal and outputs the generated composite signal and demodulation signal into a human body in order to restore the sound signal within the vicinity of the ears of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Sung-Eun KIM, Sung-Weon Kang, Tae-Wook Kang, In-Gi Lim, Hyung-ll Park, Chang-Hee Hyoung, Jung-Hwan Hwang, Jin-Kyung Kim, Jung-Bum Kim, Kyung-Soo Kim, Ki-Hyuk Park, Jae-Hoon Shim