Patents Issued in September 20, 2011
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Patent number: 8020880Abstract: A children's vehicle includes a body and a cross member attached to the body. A tongue assembly features a leading portion, a central portion and a trailing portion, with the central portion pivotably connected to the cross member. A handle is pivotally attached to the leading portion of the tongue assembly. A tie rod is pivotally attached to the trailing portion of the tongue assembly. A pair of axle spindles are pivotally attached one each to opposite ends of the cross member. A pair of wheels are rotatably mounted one each on the pair of axle spindles. A pair of generally S-shaped torque arms are connected one each to the axle spindles and pivotally connected one each to opposite ends of the tie rod.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Radio Flyer, Inc.Inventor: Shenwei Zhu
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Patent number: 8020881Abstract: A mobility assistance apparatus having an elongated frame. The elongated frame includes a pair of disparate sized wheels coupled to each end of an elongated frame. A pivoting joint is provided longitudinally in the elongated frame which allows the second wheel to track the first wheel in a lateral arc about the along a longitudinal centerline of the first wheel.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventors: Earl Stump, Frank Penner
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Patent number: 8020882Abstract: A trailing arm for a rear independent suspension of a motor vehicle. The arm (10) includes a beam-like mounting structure (32) and a plurality of components including a first component (38, 40) for the mounting of a first bush (20) for articulated connection of the trailing arm (10) to the vehicle structure, a second component (42) for support of a wheel-carrying spindle; a third component (50, 56) for the mounting of a second bush (22) for articulated connection of the trailing arm (10) to a first rod (12), a fourth component (58) for the mounting of a third bush (24) for articulated connection of the trailing arm (10) to a second rod (12), a fifth component (28) for support of a spring, a sixth component (64) for connection of the trailing arm (10) to a shock absorber (16), and a seventh component (66) for connection of the trailing arm (10) to a torsion bar (18).Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Sistemi Sospensioni S.p.A.Inventors: Armando D'Aponte, Michele Spina
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Patent number: 8020883Abstract: A logical third axle gear train for a bicycle, comprising a power gear operatively connected to at least one sprocket and adapted to be rotatably mounted on a bicycle frame. A drive gear is operatively connected to a hub assembly on which a drive wheel is mounted. A conversion gear adapted to be rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame is disposed between the power gear and drive gear to transmit torque from the power gear to drive gear. The drive wheel is removable from the bicycle frame without manipulation of a chain for driving the sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Jensen and Brusca Consulting GroupInventor: Victor G. Brusca
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Patent number: 8020884Abstract: A bicycle including a main frame, a front fork rotationally coupled to the main frame, a rear wheel rotationally coupled to the main frame, a front wheel rotationally coupled to the front fork, a handlebar, and a stem assembly coupling the handlebar to the front fork. The stem assembly includes a stem base coupled to the front fork, a face plate coupled to the stem base with the handlebar sandwiched between the face plate and the stem base, and an auxiliary retention system that holds the face plate engaged with the stem base.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventors: Aaron J. Foley, Dennis John Wrobleski
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Patent number: 8020885Abstract: An assembly for restricting access to a coupler includes a body having a coupler engagement portion for engagement with a first surface of a coupler, a coupler engagement member laterally movable within a laterally extending slot in the body, with the coupler engagement member extending perpendicularly from the slot for engagement with a second surface of the coupler opposite the first surface. The assembly further includes a securing mechanism for selectively securing the coupler engagement member relative to the body against lateral movement away from the coupler engagement portion. When at least a portion of the coupler is received between the coupler engagement portion and the coupler engagement member and the coupler engagement member is secured in a coupler lockout position, at least one of the coupler engagement portion and the coupler engagement member prevents withdrawal of the coupler from the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Master Lock Company LLCInventors: Maja A. Cuellar, D. Scott Kalous
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Patent number: 8020886Abstract: A window for installation in a sandwich composite beam, notably a ski, that consisting of a window body installed in the composite beam and a tab which forms a structural connection between the window body and the composite beam. The window body protects the composite beam core from moisture and maintains the structural integrity of the beam across the opening of the window. The structural window also provides a platform for an imaging system for measuring speed and displacement.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2005Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Richard Albert Kirby
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Patent number: 8020887Abstract: The invention describes a ski (2) or a snowboard in the form of a board-type gliding device (1). By reference to the width (13) of the gliding board body, at least one slot (14) is provided in its middle portion extending in the depth direction—arrow (15)—from the top face (7) of the gliding board body in the direction towards the running surface facing (10) and in its longitudinal direction essentially parallel with the longitudinal direction of the gliding board body. This at least one slot (14) is provided with a view to causing a cross-sectional weakening and reducing the stiffness of the gliding board body transversely to its longitudinal direction. Also provided is at least one geometry-influencing means (19), by means of which the cross-sectional shape or contour of the gliding board body is variable as a function of load and/or can be manually varied.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: ATOMIC Austria GmbHInventors: Bernhard Riepler, Rupert Huber, Helmut Holzer
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Patent number: 8020888Abstract: A post-deployment, position-stabilized curtain airbag has a top edge from which an inflatable safety cushion is supported by a vehicle for deployment into a vehicle passenger compartment between occupant and occupant enclosure. A fill chamber is secured to the top edge of the safety cushion. An inflatable structural member is mechanically connected to the safety cushion. The fill chamber directs pressurized gas into the safety cushion and the structural member. The structural member deploys into the passenger compartment between the safety cushion and occupant enclosure limiting outboard displacement of the safety cushion. The structural member fully deploys after the safety cushion. Another structural member deploys along the top edge of the safety cushion limiting pivoting of the safety cushion there relative to the fill chamber. Pressurized gas enters each structural member through auxiliary passageways having oppositely directed entrances and outlets.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Blake L. Cheal, Joshua Clayton Allred
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Patent number: 8020889Abstract: An occupant protection apparatus comprises an inflatable airbag with a panel, the panel including a first vent opening that permits inflation fluid to escape out of the airbag; and a valve sheet including a second vent opening movable relative to the first vent opening, the valve sheet having opposite ends that are each fixed to a surface of the airbag. One end of the valve sheet moves with the panel during inflation of the airbag to move the second vent opening relative to the first vent opening. The apparatus also includes a valve guide to guide movement of the valve sheet relative to the panel, the valve sheet is capable of sliding between the valve guide and the panel. Both ends of the valve sheet remain fixed to the panel during and after inflation of the airbag.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: TK Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Barney J. Bauer, Moe M. Boumarafi, Jerome Bosch, Jonathan L. Clarke, Nate Dennis, James P. Karlow, Amy L. Klinkenberger, Vivekananadhan Maripudi, Michael J. Scavnicky, Jamie F. Perez Aguilar, Stephanie M. McFadden, Paul A. Baker, Paul G. Maertens, John Paul Ruterbusch, Ray John Roberts, Joseph M. Ehrke
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Patent number: 8020890Abstract: A control device for modifying the deployment characteristics of an inflatable cushion of an airbag module is disclosed herein, the control device having a releasable retention device releasably secured to an inner surface of the inflatable cushion at a first location and an actuator at a second location, the releasable retention device being configured to limit deployment of the inflatable cushion in a first direction when the releasable retention device is secured to the first location of the inflatable cushion and the actuator; and a venting system disposed within and comprising a portion of the inflatable cushion, the venting system providing at least one vent opening in the inflatable cushion when the releasable retention device is secured to the first location of the inflatable cushion and the actuator and the inflatable cushion is inflated by an inflation gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Autoliv Development ABInventor: James L. Webber
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Patent number: 8020891Abstract: A vehicular airbag device includes an airbag and an opening degree change portion. The airbag is folded and accommodated in an accommodation portion provided in front of a vehicle seat. The airbag is deployed toward an occupant seated in the vehicular seat by being supplied with a gas when a head-on collision occurs, and has a vent hole that allows the gas to be discharged in restraining the occupant. The opening degree change portion changes an opening area of the vent hole in accordance with a direction of impact of an upper body of the occupant with the airbag during deployment of the airbag.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Osamu Fukawatase, Tomotaka Kuroda, Muneo Akashio
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Patent number: 8020892Abstract: The invention provides a cushion structure of a side airbag that includes: an inflator generating inflation gas in response to an inflation signal that is inputted in a collision; and a cushion inflated by the inflation gas supplied from the inflator. The cushion is divided into an upper cushion and a lower cushion by an intermediate diaphragm. The upper cushion and the lower cushion are fluidly communicated with each other through the intermediate diaphragm having at least a communication hole, and receive the inflation gas from the inflator. The upper cushion inflates in larger width than the lower cushion.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignees: Kia Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Jaeho Choi
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Patent number: 8020893Abstract: A machine includes a steering column assembly and a mechanical strut pivotably attached to the steering column assembly. The mechanical strut, free of pressurized gas, is positioned to tilt at least a portion of the steering column assembly about an axis. A tilt adjustment mechanism is movable to release a friction lock mechanism within the mechanical strut. The mechanical strut is telescopically movable through a continuous range of positions when the friction lock mechanism is released.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Dave Lucas, James D. Morris, Jr., Tyler Henderson
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Patent number: 8020894Abstract: A vehicle occupant restraint system includes a seat belt webbing connected to a latch plate, wherein the latch plate is configured to be releasably connected to a buckle assembly in order to secure the webbing in a position capable of restraining the occupant. The buckle assembly includes a release button, a blocking component, a solenoid coupled to a connecting member positioned to engage the blocking component, and a solenoid actuator electrically connected to the solenoid. The blocking component is configured to engage the latch plate in order to connect the latch plate to the buckle assembly, and is configured to disengage from the latch plate in order to facilitate the release of the latch plate when the release button is depressed. When the solenoid actuator actuates the solenoid, the connecting member is configured to move to thereby change the position of the blocking component in order disengage the blocking component from the latch plate.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: TK Holdings Inc.Inventor: Brandon Scott Marriott
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Patent number: 8020895Abstract: The device serves to fasten the outflow bend (9) to a fastening body (4), for example to a mounting frame (2). The pipe clamp (11) has a holder (12), which on an inner side (20) possesses grooves (21), which, for the axial fixing of the socket (10), cooperate with ribs (22, 23, 24) on an outer side of the socket (10). The holder (12) has a collar (19), which, for the axial fixing of the socket (10), can be mounted into a groove (25, 26) of the socket (10) or onto a rib (22, 23, 24) of the socket (10), according to choice.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Geberit Technik AGInventor: Peter Reichmuth
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Patent number: 8020896Abstract: A hose connector (19, 59) for the assembly in a housing opening (13) of a tank of a portable handheld work apparatus is formed as one piece and has a base plate (20). A sealing rim (21) for mounting in the housing opening (13) is provided on the base plate (20) at a first side (57). The hose connector (19, 59) has at least one connecting channel (31, 32) which projects through the base plate (20) and which, at least at one end, has at least one connecting stub (24, 24?, 25, 26, 26?) for connecting to a hose line. A first connecting stub (26, 26?) is fixed within the sealing rim (21) on the base plate (20) and has a pull-off protector (54). The pull-off protector (54) is at a distance (e) to the base plate (20) perpendicularly to the plane of the base plate (20) which is greater than the distance (f) of the lower edge (51) of the sealing rim (21) to the base plate (20). The lower edge (51) faces away from the base plate (20).Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KGInventor: Andreas Ehrmann
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Patent number: 8020897Abstract: A joint structure of a steel pipe and a metal pipe includes a socket; and a thermosetting resin, the steel pipe including a first joining end having a flat portion of the outer surface of the first joining end adjacent to the base, and an uneven portion of the outer surface of the first joining end adjacent to the front end, the socket covering the first joining end, the metal pipe including a second joining end, the second joining end being interposed between the socket and the first joining end, the first joining end being joined to the second joining end by crimping while the thermosetting resin is present in the gap between the inner surface of the socket and the outer surface of the second joining end and between the outer surface of the first joining end and the inner surface of the second joining end.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Nichirin Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshiyuki Katayama, Yoshio Nakano, Takashi Yagi, Masamichi Matsui
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Patent number: 8020898Abstract: A band clamp that connects overlapping pipe ends includes a band, a tightening mechanism, and a gasket. The band has a radially protruding rib, a first lateral section that extends from a side of the rib, and a second lateral section that extends from another side of the rib. The tightening mechanism connects to the band and is operable to tighten the band, and the gasket is received in the rib. In one example, an axial width of the lateral sections are within a range relative to an axial width of the rib, and in another example, the lateral sections are angled inwardly with relative to an axis of the band.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Norma U.S. Holding LLCInventor: Brian T. Ignaczak
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Patent number: 8020899Abstract: A threaded coupling for connecting a threaded first connecting drop pipe to a second connecting drop pipe. The coupling has a first female end having an enlarged exterior diameter and an interior diameter defining a lead in section which provides strength to resist lateral forces exerted on the threaded drop pipe connection. Adjacent the lead in section, internal threads are located in the first female end of the coupling. A second female end having an interior diameter substantially the same size as the lead in section of the first female end is located adjacent the internal threads, opposite the first female end. A male connecting end of a first connecting drop pipe having external threads is inserted into the lead in section and screwed into the coupling. A male connecting end of a second connecting drop pipe is coated with an adhesive and inserted into the second female end.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Johnson Screens, Inc.Inventors: Thom M. Hanna, James E. Valliere, Thomas L. Hennemann
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Patent number: 8020900Abstract: An exemplary latching mechanism (10) includes a detachable member (12), an elastic member (18), a positioning member (20), a rotatable member (22), and a base (24). The detachable member has a pair of clasping portions (124) and a pair of actuators (126). The elastic member is disposed between the positioning member and the detachable member for providing elastic force. The rotatable member is disposed on the base. The rotatable member includes a plurality of pedals (226) for engaging with the actuators of the detachable member and a plurality of latching portions (224) for abutting the clasping portions of the detachable member. The positioning member engages with the rotatable member. When the detachable member is pressed, the detachable member can be latched on or detached from the base.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jian-Jun Li, Te-Sheng Jan, Yu-Tao Chen, Chun-Che Yen
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Patent number: 8020901Abstract: A housing including a first member, a second member, a first locking mechanism, and a second locking mechanism. The first member is configured to engage with second member. The first locking mechanism locks the first member to the second member, and unlocks in accordance with pressure provided from external of the housing. And the second locking mechanism locks the first member to the second member, and unlocks by rotating either of the first member or the second member at the second locking mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventor: Hayato Watanabe
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Patent number: 8020902Abstract: An integrated snap and handling apparatus is provided. The apparatus may be capable of being assembled with and disassembled from a mating component without damage. The apparatus may include a pair of features that provide an intuitive and easy user interface for removal, handling and installation. The pair of features may allow a user to use a pinching motion to engage and disengage the apparatus from the mating component without the use of a tool. The integrated snap and handling apparatus may provide for low removal forces when the user interface is properly actuated while resisting high separation forces when the user interface is not properly actuated. The integrated snap and handling apparatus may be incorporated into a wide variety of assemblies and devices. For example, the integrated snap and handling apparatus may be incorporated into a cooling duct for the control of airflow around an electronic component.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Flextronics AP, LLCInventor: Hsu Li
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Patent number: 8020903Abstract: A vehicle door latch with a locking mechanism including at least: a catch having a first axis of rotation; a pawl; at least one sensor for detecting the position of the catch; and an intermediate element having a second axis of rotation; wherein the intermediate element transfers movement of the catch around the first axis of rotation onto the sensor; the intermediate element directly contacts the catch and the sensor; and the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation are not parallel in space with respect to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Kiekert AGInventor: Ludger Graute
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Patent number: 8020904Abstract: An integrated sash lock and tilt latch assembly is mounted in a sash window having a top rail, a base, and two stiles connected together at their extremities. The integrated assembly contains a sash lock mechanism, a tilt latch mechanism, and a connector. The sash lock mechanism includes an actuator movable to adjust the assembly among a locked position, an unlocked position, and a tiltable position, and a rotor coupled to the actuator. The tilt latch mechanism includes a tilt latch housing supported by the top rail and a latch bolt slidably supported by the tilt latch housing and moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. At least a portion of the tilt latch housing has a generally circular cross-section. The connector has a first end of operably coupled to the latch bolt and a second end operably coupled to the sash lock mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Newell Operating CompanyInventors: Edward C. Flory, Jason L. Annes, Dean Pettit
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Patent number: 8020905Abstract: A bumper is provided with to-be-engaged projections, a radiator grille is provided with engaging projections. The radiator grille is allowed to move and approach bumper rearward of a vehicle. According to this configuration, the engaging projections engage the to-be-engaged projections and they are engaged with and fixed to each other. At this time, a bumper-side seizing unit of the bumper is fitted into a grille-side seizing unit of the radiator grille, thereby limiting the vertical direction. In an engaged state between the engaging projections and the to-be-engaged projections, an inclining surface of one of the engaging projections comes into contact with a rearward inclining surface of the one of the to-be-engaged projections, and an inclining surface of the other engaging projection is separated from a rearward inclining surface of the other to-be-engaged projection.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tadayoshi Nakayama
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Patent number: 8020906Abstract: A crash apparatus, in particular a crash box in a motor vehicle, has a deformation body for absorbing energy in the event of a crash, which body is assembled from two half shells having beads running transversely to the main deformation direction. The two half shells each have outwardly projecting flanges with beads also running transversely to the main deformation direction. The two half shells exclusively press against one another via the contact surfaces lying between the beads of the flanges and are connected to one another in these areas.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Dr. Ing h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ralf Schmid, Martin Sedlar
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Patent number: 8020907Abstract: A bumper for a motor vehicle includes a cross member which is disposed transversely to a side rail of a motor vehicle frame. A crash box is incorporated between the cross member and the side rail, with set bolts being provided to join the crash box to the cross member in the absence of prepunching.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Benteler AutomobiltechnikInventors: Michael Wibbeke, Christian Handing, Jochen Dörr, Ulrich Lütke-Bexten, Michael Roll
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Patent number: 8020908Abstract: An apparatus for handling layers of palletised goods, including a vertically displaceable lift head (2) with a mainly horizontal suction face which is substantially adjusted in size for a pallet, and which comprises downwardly open suction chambers (8) which via individual ball valves and an air distribution chamber are connected to a centrifugal blower (4), which is the vacuum source of the apparatus. The suction face moves downwards against the upper side of an upper layer of goods on a pallet. The ball valves are light, thin-walled spherical valve bodies (10) which are closed if the associated suction chamber (8) is not blocked downwardly by contacting the upper side of the goods on the uppermost pallet layer. The lift head (2) comprises a vertically adjustable skirt with inflatable squeezing pads for exerting an inwardly directed pressure on the outer sides of the goods of the upper pallet layer.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Univeyor A/SInventors: Torben Christensen, Henrik Kjeldgaard Hansen
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Patent number: 8020909Abstract: A pincer (e.g., a tweezer) has tips which are at least substantially transparent, such that a user can at least partially view an object being grasped through the tips, and/or such that the tips collect and channel incident light onto the grasped item. The tips preferably have an exterior which is convex in one or more dimensions, and are configured and/or coated such that light falling on the tip exteriors is focused onto a spot or band on the item. Since the tips can enhance illumination of an item being grasped, they can particularly enhance the viewing of translucent materials such as gemstones or selected biological materials.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Barry J. LaVaque
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Patent number: 8020910Abstract: An handle for carrying grocery bags and the like comprising a rod round cross section with a central portion adapted to be gripped by a human hand. On either side of the gripping portion are knobs with deep annular slots adapted to receive the handles of a grocery bag. Each bag loop handle is secured by one of the slots. The handle is attached to the bag transversely to the bag opening. The handle supports the bag in a balanced configuration without a tendency to rotate in the hand. Alternatively, one or more bags may be mounted in each slot and carried by the handle between them.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Jerry Startzell
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Patent number: 8020911Abstract: A sliding cargo carrier for use in motor vehicles has a slideable frame assembly and deck for supporting cargo. The deck is supported on an upper frame which is slideably mounted on a base frame attached to the vehicle. The deck is extendable and retractable within the vehicle to allow easy access to cargo stored thereon. The slideable frame assembly can be readily removed and reinstalled in the vehicle. Additional storage assemblies selectively positioned on the slideable frame assembly increase the storage potential of the sliding cargo carrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Richard L. McKelvey
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Patent number: 8020912Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Daniel William Lounds
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Patent number: 8020913Abstract: A vehicle interior structural assembly includes an instrument panel that is dimensioned to extend laterally between opposing interior side walls of a passenger compartment of a vehicle. A structural member extends between first and second ends of the instrument panel such that the structural member is substantially concealed by the instrument panel. A stay bracket is connected to the structural member and extends downward from the structural member. The stay bracket is located forward of a rearmost extent of the instrument panel. A reinforcement member is connected to the stay bracket at a first point and a second point that are vertically spaced from one another. The reinforcement member includes a support portion cantilevered from and extending rearward of the rearmost extent of the instrument panel such that forces applied to the reinforcement member are directed to the stay bracket and the structural member.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.Inventor: Chad Kwolek
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Patent number: 8020914Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a visor support and a method of supporting a visor. In one embodiment, the support comprises a body and a flange with the visor is attached to the body such that the visor moves with respect to the body. A fastener attaches the body to the flange such that the body moves with respect to the flange. A first detent is disposed on the flange. A first ball is disposed on the body. The first ball is engageable with the first detent to control vertical movement of the visor. A second detent is disposed on the visor. A second ball is disposed on the body. The second ball is engageable with the second detent to control horizontal movement of the visor.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventor: Stephen F. Burns
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Patent number: 8020915Abstract: The openable roof system (R) comprises: a covering element or roof (3) which in the vicinity of its rear end (3b) is mounted rotatably about a horizontal axis (4) between two parallel side uprights (5) of the bodywork of the motor car (1), close to the rear of the passenger compartment (2), and; an essentially vertical stowage compartment (6) open towards the top, formed in the motor car (1) between and below said uprights (5). The arrangement is such that the covering element or roof (3) can be pivoted about the axis (4) between a closed position, where it is arranged so as to lie at least approximately horizontally, and a midway open position, where it is arranged so as to lie substantially vertically. The covering element or roof (3) is then displaceable downwards from said midway open position into a final concealed position where it is contained so as to lie substantially vertically inside the stowage compartment (6).Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Fioravanti SRLInventor: Leonardo Fioravanti
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Patent number: 8020916Abstract: The invention relates to a convertible vehicle with at least two roof sections; that, when the roof is closed, are situated one behind the other with regard to the direction of travel (F), of which, when roof section that is situated behind the other section when the roof is closed, at least one separately openable part of the or a roof section, which is situated in front of roof section, can be displaced with a component pointing toward the rear, and the convertible vehicle is ready to be driven when the roof sections are in this position.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbHInventors: Winfried Bunsmann, Klaus Russke
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Patent number: 8020917Abstract: The ice screen includes a plurality of brackets that attach said screen to a top surface of a tractor-trailer for securing ice formed atop said trailer. The brackets attach to the top surface of the trailer or box truck via attaching means comprising bolts, rivets, or screws. The ice screen is suspended above the top surface of the trailer or box truck via tubing, which forms channels of ice thereon. The ice screen enables ice to form between the ice screen and the top surface, but will prevent ice from accumulating above said ice screen in affect bonding the ice screen above the screen to the ice screen. The ice screen may be installed upon a utility trailer, flat top truck, tractor-trailer, or box truck.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: David Senter
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Patent number: 8020918Abstract: An assembly to pivotally connect an external vehicle closure panel to a vehicle body includes a first hinge member that is constructed to be mounted to one of the external vehicle closure panel and the vehicle body, a second hinge member that is constructed to be mounted to the other of the external vehicle closure panel and the vehicle body, a shaft that is constructed to pivotally connect the first hinge member to the second hinge member, and a viscous rotary damper. The damper includes a cover, a rotor, and a viscous material. The shaft connects to the rotor such that rotation of the external vehicle closure panel between a closing position and an opening position causes relative motion between the rotor and the cover of the viscous damper to provide a resistance for controlling the velocity of the external vehicle closure member.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Ventra Group, Inc.Inventors: Brad F. Patzer, Michael D. J. Smith, Stanislav Magovski, David W. Shaw, Joaquin Hung
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Patent number: 8020919Abstract: A door module assembly for a motor vehicle door has a plate-like carrier holding a plurality of door hardware components in a pre-configured orientation, including one or more window regulator rails. The carrier seals the motor vehicle door and includes a flap that provides at least partial access to the window regulator rails. A first trim panel is pre-fixed to the carrier. A second trim panel articulates with respect to the first trim panel between an initial position generally parallel to the first trim panel and an installed position generally in-line with the first trim panel. With the carrier storing substantially all of the hardware required for the door and the trim panels covering substantially the entire surface area of the door, handling and assembly operations are minimized.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2005Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Intier Automotive Closures Inc.Inventors: Jih Cheng Lin, Dennis John Buening, Radoslav Bokun, Manfred Fritsch, David James Krysiak, Daniel E. Wenglinski, Juliusz Kirejczyk, Luc R. Regnier, David Legault, Douglas G. Broadhead
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Patent number: 8020920Abstract: A wire harness for a door is spanned between a door inner panel of a motor vehicle and a vehicle body and is arranged near an indoor side over a weather strip. An outer protective assembly includes a flange outward fitting portion that is mounted on an outer surface of a flange projecting from a door facing surface of the vehicle body and that defines a wire harness threading space for passing the wire harness. The wire harness that passes through the wire harness threading space in the flange outward fitting portion can be arranged in a vehicle body inner panel. The outer protective assembly includes an inner cover and an outer cover. The inner and outer covers are coupled to each other to define a flat space for juxtaposing electrical wires of the wire harness. The inner and outer covers are bent in a U-shaped configuration around the flange to define the flange outward fitting portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems Ltd.Inventors: Morihiko Toyozumi, Isao Tsuji, Daiki Nagayasu, Tsutomu Sakata, Tetsuya Fujita, Sung-Jin Kim
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Patent number: 8020921Abstract: A door assembly for an automotive vehicle is provided. The door assembly includes a support structure having an upper section and a lower section. A pair of apertures are formed on the upper section of the support structure. A trim panel has an interior surface facing the passenger compartment of the automotive vehicle, an outer surface facing the support structure, top end and a lower end. A pair of pivot members are located adjacent the top end of the trim panel to engage the pair of apertures on the support structure. The pivot members allow the trim panel to be pivoted between a first position and a second position where the lower section of the support structure is spaced apart from the lower end of the trim panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Joshua Lewis Moberg
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Patent number: 8020922Abstract: An interior trim component includes a body portion defining an inboard-surface, and an outboard-surface, wherein the body portion is further defined by a groove formed in the inboard-surface, and a passage extending through the body portion from the inboard-surface to the outboard-surface; and a bolster portion including a first end portion, and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion is disposed in the groove formed in the inboard-surface, wherein the second end portion is disposed in the passage. A method is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Magna International Inc.Inventors: John C. Pianowski, Vaughn D. Vanderpool
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Patent number: 8020923Abstract: A motor vehicle is provided with a sliding door on which an armrest is provided that protrudes into the vehicle interior. The sliding door can be slid from a closing position, in which an entrance opening in a neighboring vehicle wall is closed, via an intermediate position, in which the sliding door is displaced to the outside relative to the vehicle wall into an opening position, in which the sliding door is arranged in front of an outer side of the vehicle wall and the entrance opening is opened. The armrest is connected with the sliding door in such a manner that the armrest through the sliding of the sliding door from the intermediate position into the opening position is slid in front of an inner side of the vehicle wall.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Ralf Gaudig
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Patent number: 8020924Abstract: Some embodiments comprise an integrated reinforcing crossmember having a carrier with an expansible material adhered to at least a portion of the exterior surface of the carrier. The carrier is comprised of a center section and two end sections, each section comprised of external lateral walls and internal ribs joined by cross walls and horizontal connecting walls. The crossmember is inserted into a cavity of a corresponding structural member, and the expansible material is activated and expands, securing the crossmember in place within the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Sika Technology AGInventors: Michael C. Niezur, Taylor S. Robertson
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Patent number: 8020925Abstract: A front structure of a cab-over type vehicle 1 includes a side member 10, a cab mount bracket 3, and a stiffener inner reinforcement 4. The cab mount bracket 3 is fixed to the side member 10, and includes a bracket base 31 mounted on a front end portion 15 of the side member 10 and a shaft supporting portion 30 supporting a cab 5. The stiffener inner reinforcement 4 is fixed to the side member 10, and includes a vertical wall portion 44. The vertical wall portion 44 is disposed in a direction that crosses a front-rear direction, between an upper plate 11 and a lower plate 12 of the side member 10 and below a rear end edge 36 of the bracket base 31. When a load F toward the rear is applied to the cab mount bracket 3, the vertical wall portion 44 suppresses upward bending deformation of the front end portion 15 of the side member 10.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Isuzu Motors LimitedInventors: Noriyuki Miura, Tatsuji Ooeda
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Patent number: 8020926Abstract: A structural vehicular frame assembly includes an inner panel of interconnected flange members forming a first common plate of material and an outer panel of interconnected flange member forming a second common plate of material. Each of the flange members of the outer panel is joined to a respective one of the flange members of the inner panel in alignment therewith by one or more web members coupled between the inner panel and the outer panel such that the inner panel and the outer panel are spaced apart from one another and generally span alongside one another in a common direction of the frame assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2010Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: John L. Enns
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Patent number: 8020927Abstract: The reinforcement member of a body structure is composed of two member elements which are of u-shaped profile in cross section and which are arranged nested one inside the other. Turned-up limb portions of the outer member element have edge-side retaining lugs between which are arranged edge-side cutouts. The retaining lugs can be connected to turned-up limb portions of the inner member element, and connecting points to the bodywork outer shell are arranged in the interposed cutouts. The outer member element is composed of a high-strength steel material, with the inner member element being composed of a relatively low-strength steel material, and the terminating bodywork outer shell is formed from an aluminium material.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Tim Schmidt, Klaus Heinle
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Patent number: 8020928Abstract: A seal attachment assembly for a vehicle sunroof comprises a seal including one of an outward extending protrusion and hook and a deflector body including the other of the protrusion and the hook. A cooperative relationship between the protrusion and the hook resists a movement of the seal away from the vehicle body. A double-sided adhesive tape secures a planar base portion of the seal to the vehicle body. A resilient lip extends outward from the seal in a direction away from the sunroof opening along an outer edge of the planar base portion. This resilient lip maintains an elastic engagement with the vehicle body to shelter the double-sided tape from exposure to elements. The protrusion extends outward from the seal along an inner edge of the planar portion in a direction toward the sunroof opening. A terminal end of the protrusion includes a rounded bulb section. An outer leg of the deflector body extends beyond the planar base portion of the seal.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akihiko Kuribayashi, Brent Nathaniel Gaertner
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Patent number: 8020929Abstract: A vehicle seat (1), especially motor vehicle seat, is provided with a base (3) and a main carrier (7), which is collapsible in relation to the base (3), and can be converted from a forward position into a backward position by collapsing the main carrier (7). The vehicle seat (1) has two cushioned carriers (11, 12) with upholstery, which are displaceable in relation to the main carrier (7). The moved first cushioned carrier (11) with its upholstery serves as the seat part and the extended second cushioned carrier (12) with its upholstery serves as the backrest in the forward position. The extended first cushioned carrier (11) with its upholstery serves as the backrest and the moved-in second cushioned carrier (12) with its upholstery serves as the seat part in the backward position.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Keiper GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Dieter Harth, Mathias Gischke