Patents Issued in January 31, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130026765
    Abstract: A thermal shield for a system for generating electric power may include a sheet of material configured to be operably associated with an engine of the system for generating electric power such that heat from the engine is deflected back toward the engine. The sheet of material may define a generally rectangular shape defining a length dimension and a width dimension, and the length dimension may be configured to generally correspond to a length defined by the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Michael R. Errera, Kenton D. Gills
  • Publication number: 20130026766
    Abstract: The subject disclosure relates to energy harvesting. More particularly, the subject disclosure relates to harvesting energy from the relative motion between a rotary stabilizer and the drill string. In further embodiments, the subject disclosure relates to harvesting energy from vibrations in the drill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: MURAT OCALAN, JAHIR PABON, NATHAN WICKS, HITOSHI TASHIRO
  • Publication number: 20130026767
    Abstract: The invention relates to a starter (100), to a device for starting a starter motor, to a device for detecting an engaged state of a starter pinion, to a method for starting a starter motor, to a method for detecting an engaged state of a pinion (101) in a corresponding gearwheel, to a computer program and to a computer program product, wherein the method for detecting an engaged state of a pinion (101) in a corresponding gearwheel, in particular an engaged state of a starter pinion in a gear rim of a starter (100), comprises applying a current to a starter relay (110) for switching the pinion (101) and detecting at least one current flow parameter of the current flow, wherein the detected current flow parameter is set in relation to potential pinion positions and a pinion position associated with the detected current flow parameter is selected and is thus detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Apostolos Tsakiris, Markus Roessle, Juergen Gross
  • Publication number: 20130026768
    Abstract: According to embodiments of the invention, a device for securing the passive panel of a double door assembly includes a rotatable handle for retracting and extending remote bolts to secure the passive panel to the door frame, and a lock bolt that can be extended and retracted by a separate control to secure the passive panel to the active panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Douglas A. Nolte, Yoshikazu Nakanishi, Manabu Shimoji
  • Publication number: 20130026769
    Abstract: A fastener for a transport container includes two portions to be connected and wherein the fastener includes a fastener flange arranged in a first cup and a displaceable fastener hook tiltably arranged in a second cup, the hook engaging behind the fastener flange in a closed position, it is provided in that at least one spring is disposed such that the fastener hook is pushed toward the bottom of the second cup into a rest position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Martin Drumm
  • Publication number: 20130026770
    Abstract: Anti-panic opening device for doors, comprising a left support and a right support bearing respective main control members and a lock mountable on the left support or on the right support, wherein the lock comprises, a base bearing a linear guide extending along a main rectilinear direction, a latch which engages said linear guide and is movable relative to the base along said main direction between a closed position and an open position, wherein the latch has a groove elongated in said main direction, at least one elastic element arranged between the base and the latch, to push the latch towards said closed position, wherein said main control members are articulated to the respective support about an axis orthogonal to said main direction and wherein the main control member of the support associated with the lock has an arm which cooperates with the latch in relation to the thrust.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Aimone Balbo Di Vinadio
  • Publication number: 20130026771
    Abstract: A security seal using a captured lock wire for sealing a device in a manner revealing tampering with the seal includes a locking insert that fits closely within a central cavity of an outer body and is locked within the outer body against removal without visible damage to the insert or the outer body using locking fingers on the insert that cooperate with locking abutments in the cavity that permit insertion of the locking insert into the central cavity but not removal there from. A lock wire is secured at one end to the locking insert or the outer body in a manner preventing its separation from either of them and a free end of the lock wire is threaded through apertures and grooves in the insert and outer body after being secured to a device to be sealed in a secured manner such that the wire cannot be separated from the security seal without causing visible damage to the seal or wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Ian A. NAZZARI
  • Publication number: 20130026772
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a bumper fascia panel, a fender body panel and a mounting flange attachment arrangement. The fascia panel includes a fascia mounting flange forming a first outboard abutment edge visible from an exterior of the vehicle body structure. The fender body panel includes a fender mounting flange forming a second outboard abutment edge visible from the exterior. The mounting flange attachment arrangement includes first and second fastening members overlying the fascia and fender mounting flanges, respectively, and a fastening element coupling the first and second fastening members together while sandwiching the mounting flanges. The fastening element has a tool engagement portion at a first end on an inboard side of the attachment arrangement and a second end opposite to the first end, with a center fastening axis extending from the second to first end in an upward direction of the vehicle body structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Matthew Huber
  • Publication number: 20130026773
    Abstract: An apparatus for picking up material is disclosed that has a scoop section with a bottom, a leading edge, two spaced apart side walls extending up from opposed sides of the bottom, and a back between the two side walls extending up from the bottom opposite the leading edge. The scoop has a cavity formed within the bottom, the side walls, and the back, and having an open front end and extending rearward therefrom. The scoop has a handle connected to and extending rearward and downward from the back of the scoop section. The handle and back are fixedly or adjustably attached to one another. The scoop cavity has an extended cavity section disposed under the handle that is a contiguous part of the cavity. The scoop is ergonomically designed for reducing stress related fatigue, strain or injury to the upper or lower extremities, or shoulder or neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: LYNN H. ROCKWELL, Janice M.K. Jaferian
  • Publication number: 20130026774
    Abstract: The present invention provides a kind of permanent magnetic lifting device, which has: a housing, at the bottom of which is a clamping surface for clamping objects; fixed magnet(s), set in housing relatively fixed to housing; a turnable magnet, set in housing relatively turnable to fixed magnet. When turnable magnet is in the first position relative to fixed magnet, the magnetic force generated by fixed magnet and turnable magnet to clamping surface is zero magnetic force; when turnable magnet is in the third position relative to fixed magnet, the magnetic force generated by fixed magnet and turnable magnet to clamping surface is the maximum magnetic force. The permanent magnetic lifting device also has a positioning mechanism for second position. When the positioning mechanism for second position positions turnable magnet in the second position relative to fixed magnet, fixed magnet and turnable magnet generate trial clamping magnetic force to clamping surface for clamping objects on trial.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Hong Ding
  • Publication number: 20130026775
    Abstract: A material handling system includes a body including a first member and a second member. The first member and the second member define a hollow cavity within the body, and a gap disposed between the first member and the second member. The body is in flow communication with a first gas source to provide pressurized gas flow through the gap to generate a lifting force on an object placed adjacent to the body. The body has channels disposed within a central region of the body in flow communication with a second gas source. The channels are arranged to controllably disengage the object from the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: J.L. SOUSER & ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher M. Sydorko, Craig Hafner
  • Publication number: 20130026776
    Abstract: There is provided an assist grip for a vehicle capable of gripping a grip main body easily when in use and applying force thereon and facilitating movement of getting off. The assist grip 1 for the vehicle includes the grip main body 2 for supporting getting out movement from the seat 51 of the occupant, which is provided in the lower part of the door opening 10 beside the seat 51, where the grip main body 2 is provided in a manner capable of raising and lowering in an outward direction of the vehicle. Accordingly, since the grip main body 2 falls outward of the vehicle at the time of use of the assist grip 1, a portion to which a hand of the occupant is applied becomes large, and a flexibility of posture change increases, and getting out of the occupant becomes easy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA ACCESS CORP.
    Inventors: Jun Abe, Hideki Oino
  • Publication number: 20130026777
    Abstract: A holding device for fixing a portable driver information unit in the interior of a motor vehicle is provided. The holding device includes a first part and a second part. The first part and the second part are swivelable with respect to one another. The first part or the second part has, or both have, a material section through which the portable driver information unit is fixed between the first part and the second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Alexander HEIL
  • Publication number: 20130026778
    Abstract: A vehicle storage compartment assembly includes a housing and a rigid lid. The housing defines a storage compartment and a lid cavity separated by a partition wall. The lid moves between an open position and a closed position. At least a portion of the lid is positioned within the lid cavity and the storage compartment uncovered in the open position. The lid covers the storage compartment and at least a portion of the lid cavity in the closed position. The lid has an inner surface configured relative to the upper free edge of the partition wall such that a first blocking portion of the inner surface is disposed adjacent a upper free edge of the partition wall and aligns with or overlaps with the upper free edge blocking space above the upper free edge of the partition wall while the lid is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Christopher James Biggs
  • Publication number: 20130026779
    Abstract: A windshield glass support structure includes a windshield glass (1), a lower end support member (3) supporting a lower end portion of the windshield glass, and a dynamic damper (7) provided at a position corresponding to a resonance antinode of the lower end support member. The dynamic damper is an additional vibration system including an additional spring and an additional mass with respect to a main vibration system in which a glass support rigidity of the lower end support member is a main spring and the windshield glass is a main mass. A resonance frequency of the dynamic damper is set in a frequency band in which the additional mass vibrates in an antiphase with respect to a vibration phase in which the lower end portion of the windshield glass vibrates in a resonance node in a front-back direction of the vehicle caused by a vibration input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Yusuke Kuroki, Kanako Takikawa
  • Publication number: 20130026780
    Abstract: The present invention is a roof attachment means for an A-Frame style trailer which has two roofs that fold atop one another when the A-Frame trailer is not in use. The two roofs raise to create a peak for use. There are securing straps attached to the outer front corners of the front roof and along the top outer edged of the rear roof such that as the roofs are being raised by the operator the securing straps maintain the relationship between the front and rear roofs by an elastic component of the securing straps which provides tension and a fixed length component of the securing straps does not allow the roofs to extend beyond the peak of the A-Frame trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Haldor Hanson
  • Publication number: 20130026781
    Abstract: Over the years storms have become more powerful and producing damaging hail there is no protection from this, hail stopper will help an owner protect their vehicle from damage for people who don't have a garage this is the next best thing. Also helps protect your vehicle from freezing rain, no more frozen windshields or doors, no more wasting time scrapping at your windows to get the ice off, just remove the hail stopper and you will be ready to go.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory Lee Hobson, Mitchell Gregory Hobson
  • Publication number: 20130026782
    Abstract: An aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus for use with vehicles having downstream surfaces that are not streamlined. The apparatus includes folding panels that extend rearward for use in a drag reducing configuration and collapse for use in a space saving configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ADAPTIVE AERODYNAMIC, LLC
    Inventor: Adaptive Aerodynamic, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130026783
    Abstract: A front underfloor structure of a vehicle includes front deflectors disposed forward of front tires, respectively. The front deflectors each include a front apex portion disposed at a position closer to the vehicle front than a leading edge surface of each of the front tires when straight, and disposed at a position closer to a vehicle center line than an inner surface of each of the front tires when straight; an outer end portion disposed at a position closer to the vehicle rear than the front apex portion, and disposed at a position outward in the vehicle width direction of the front apex portion; and a second flow redirection surface connecting the front apex portion and the outer end portion, and being configured such that, when struck by air traveling from the vehicle front, the second flow redirection surface redirects a flow of the traveling air outward in the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Takeshi Kakiuchi, Masahiro Ataka, Youhei Ogawa, Kazuaki Nakajima, Yuji Ishihara
  • Publication number: 20130026784
    Abstract: In a saddle-riding type vehicle including a shroud, efficiency is achieved by disposing a vehicle component in a space shielded by the shroud, and the vehicle component is suitably protected from, for example, rainwater, while ventilation for the vehicle component is ensured. A regulator is disposed on a first side of the vehicle, at a position at which the regulator does not overlap a fuel tank as seen in a top plan view. The regulator is covered by a right shroud from above and from outside in the vehicle width direction. The right shroud has an opening formed therein at a portion where the regulator faces upwardly. The opening overlaps with, and is covered by from above by part of the right shroud that is different from the portion of the right shroud at which the opening is formed in a top plan view.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenichi MAEDA, Kumi OKAZAKI, Munehiro SUGIMOTO, Takeshi KAMIYAMA, Osami INOMATA
  • Publication number: 20130026785
    Abstract: A hood bumper assembly for automotive vehicle hoods is provided that can manage impact energy from a collision with a pedestrian. The hood bumper assembly may have a bumper with a cushion that is threaded to a retainer attached to the vehicle frame. The threaded engagement between the bumper and the retainer may have a percentage of thread engagement that is less than industry standards so that the threads skip without substantially deforming when an impact load is applied to the vehicle hood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Maclean-Fogg Component Solutions
    Inventors: David J. Davis, Larry J. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130026786
    Abstract: A battery protection structure for an automobile includes a rocker placed in a side portion of a body, a floor panel whose outer end in a body width direction is secured to the rocker, a reinforcement located more inward in the body width direction than the rocker, and secured to the floor panel, the reinforcement forming a part of a frame of the body, a battery located more inward in the body width direction than the rocker, and placed below the floor panel in the body, and an input member that connects between the rocker and the reinforcement, and configured to input, upon input of a collision load directed inward in the body width direction to the rocker, a part of the collision load to a midsection of the floor panel between the rocker and the reinforcement as a component directed upward of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Koji SAEKI
  • Publication number: 20130026787
    Abstract: A yard tractor incorporating a fluid cylinder pressurized by fluid from a control valve actuated by a switch accessible from the driver's seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen Clark, Robert P. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20130026788
    Abstract: A nut in the form of a mounting element made in a single piece and having a first branch and a second branch connected by a web, the first branch and the second branch each including a proximal portion connected to the web and a distal portion extending the proximal portion. The nut includes a screwing element supported by the distal portion of the first branch, with a bore extending inside the screwing element along a screwing axis and emerging inside the mounting element through the distal portion of the first branch. The second branch includes an opening passing through the distal portion of the second branch opposite the bore. The proximal portion of at least one of the first and second branches is deformable so as to allow the distal portions of the first branch and the second branch to be positioned parallel to one another with different spacings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: FAURECIA INTERIEUR INDUSTRIE
    Inventors: Michel Kuhm, Dominique Duchet, Frédéric Lard
  • Publication number: 20130026789
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a revolving deck element for a construction machine, in particular for a mobile excavator, as well as to a construction machine, in particular to a mobile excavator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Stefan Schott, Gerhard Bolz
  • Publication number: 20130026790
    Abstract: A front underfloor structure of a vehicle (EV) includes a protruding member protruding downward from a front underfloor surface of the vehicle, and redirects a flow of traveling air that flows around a front underfloor while traveling. The protruding member is configured as a protruding member with curved surface (31) disposed at a position closer to the vehicle front than front tires (1L, 1R) and in a central portion of the front underfloor straddling a vehicle center line (CL). The protruding member with curved surface (31) has a circumference of protrusion in a vehicle longitudinal direction that is longest at the position of the vehicle center line (CL), and the circumference of protrusion in the vehicle longitudinal direction becomes gradually shorter with increasing distance from the vehicle center line (CL) on both sides in a vehicle width direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Takeshi KAKIUCHI
  • Publication number: 20130026791
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a bumper fascia panel and a fascia support bracket. The bumper fascia panel includes side and front end fascia sections. The front end and side fascia sections are integrally formed as a one-piece member. The side fascia section includes upper and lower fascia portions defining a fascia cutout such that they at least partially surround a vehicle lamp area. The fascia support bracket includes front end and side fascia supports. The front end fascia support supports an inboard surface of the bumper fascia panel along the front end fascia section. The side fascia support includes upper and lower support portions that support the inboard surface of the bumper fascia panel along the upper and lower fascia portions, respectively. The upper and lower support portions define a support cutout such that they at least partially surround the vehicle lamp area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Huber, Hugo F. Fortin
  • Publication number: 20130026792
    Abstract: A tongue of a finger hook of an openable area is opened outward about a resin hinge by pressing the tongue from the inner side of the inner fender. When the finger hook is pulled by the finger hooked therein, the openable area undergoes elastic deformation and can be opened from the fender panel. When the openable area is opened, a gap ? is formed between the fender panel and the openable area. In order to pull the finger hook, the finger is inserted into the finger hook from the resin hinge side to the slit portion side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD
    Inventors: Hirofumi Tanaka, Satoru Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20130026793
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to various vehicle cross-member assemblies and methods of manufacturing the same. The various vehicle cross-member assemblies have rails composed of dissimilar materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: David Anthony Wagner, Michael M. Azzouz, Ari Garo Caliskan, Sunil K. Kasaragod, Xiaoming Chen, John Edward Huber, Yuksel Gur, Parameswararao Pothuraju, Jeffery Wallace
  • Publication number: 20130026794
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to various vehicle frame assemblies and methods of manufacturing the same. The vehicle frame assemblies have rails composed of dissimilar materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: David Anthony Wagner, Michael M. Azzouz, Ari Garo Caliskan, Sunil K. Kasaragod, Xiaoming Chen, John Edward Huber, Yuksel Gur, Parameswararao Pothuraju, Jeffery Wallace
  • Publication number: 20130026795
    Abstract: Provided is a method for mounting a device on a frame in a construction machine. The method includes forming plate holes in a beam member at respective mount-member-provision positions on the beam member; mounting a plate supporter on a back surface of the beam member at each of the mount-member-provision positions so as to border the plate hole at a lower side thereof; installing the beam member on the frame; putting the mount plate into the plate hole from above so as to make the mount plate be supported by the plate supporter and fixing the plate supporter in the plate hole after adjusting the position of the mount plate horizontally and vertically within the plate hole; and mounting the mount members to the mount plates fixed in the plate holes respectively and mounting the device on the beam member via the mount members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke SHIMOMURA, Takayuki OKUNISHI, Shinji KATSUHARA
  • Publication number: 20130026796
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods of manufacturing vehicle frame assemblies. Some of the disclosed methods include forming a key and receptor arrangement between an interconnecting member, having a first material composition, and a cross-member, having a second material composition; attaching the interconnecting member and cross-member via the key and receptor arrangement at one location; inserting the interconnecting member and cross-member in a side rail; and welding the interconnecting member to the side rail at another location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: David Anthony Wagner, Michael M. Azzouz, Ari Garo Caliskan, Sunil K. Kasaragod, Xiaoming Chen, John Edward Huber, Yuksel Gur, Parameswararao Pothuraju, Jeffery Wallace
  • Publication number: 20130026797
    Abstract: A vehicle underfloor structure includes under covers (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) that cover an underside of a vehicle, and drain members (D) provided in the under covers (3, 4, 5, 6, 7). The drain members (D) each include: a front inclined wall (21) provided with a water drain opening (33, 34, 42, 43, 44, 72, 74); and a rear inclined wall (22). A recess is formed in each under cover in a front-back direction of the vehicle in such a manner that a first interior angle (?1) formed by the front inclined wall is larger than a second interior angle (?2) formed by the rear inclined wall and a length of the front inclined wall is different from a length of the rear inclined wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Takeshi Onodera, Yasutsune Terashima
  • Publication number: 20130026798
    Abstract: A cockpit support structure of a motor vehicle has a cross member (11) with brackets (13, 14, 15, 16, 17) for connecting the cross member (11) to a body structure of the motor vehicle, and having brackets (18, 19, 20) for connecting functional components to the cross member (11). The cross member (11) and the brackets (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) all are produced from a magnesium alloy material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C.F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Steffen Meier
  • Publication number: 20130026799
    Abstract: A chair is provided that is configurable to provide a substantially horizontal seating surface when the chair is disposed on an angled ground surface. The chair comprises a back frame having a pair of telescoping back legs including an upper back leg tube and a lower back leg tube slidingly disposed within the upper back leg tube. The chair additionally includes a pair of locking mechanisms comprising a locking key that includes a locking aperture through which the respective lower back leg tube extends. Each locking mechanism is structured and operable to selectively position the respective locking key in an engaged position that binds the lower back leg tube such that the lower back leg tube cannot slide into the upper back leg tube, and a disengaged position that allows the lower back leg tube to freely slide within the upper back leg tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Greg Miller
  • Publication number: 20130026800
    Abstract: A seating device with an integral seat, upright back and front wall forming a hollow bench which defines an interior space. A misting manifold with misting nozzles is supported above the upright back and is connected to a water pump which when activated supplies water to the manifold and provides a cooling mist to the entire body of a person sitting on the bench. A heater provides forced heated air to the interior space of the bench and through holes in the front wall of the bench to the deck of a foot platform for directing air upwardly through holes in the deck for total body warmth in cold weather use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Franklin B. Floyd, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130026801
    Abstract: An improved bean bag chair is disclosed that not only provides conforming support for a person's body in a variety of positions, but also provides a closable storage compartment for storing a large number of miscellaneous articles of varying size, shape and hardness, all without compromising the chair's effectiveness in providing conforming support. The chair includes an upper flexible bag defining an upper compartment that carries an adaptable filler material, and it further includes a lower flexible bag defining a lower compartment for receiving and storing the miscellaneous articles. A closure, e.g., a zipper, secures the upper and lower flexible bags together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Amber I. Goldman, Andrea Soto-Camacho, Karen G. Stash
  • Publication number: 20130026802
    Abstract: A method for protecting and restraining a passenger on a passenger seat of a vehicle in case of an accident, with the aid of at least one restraint element of a protection and restraint device, an evaluation and control unit for a protection and restraint device for carrying out the method, a protection and restraint device for protecting a passenger having such an evaluation and control unit, as well as a corresponding computer program and computer program product for carrying out the method are described. A positioning applied force is generated as a function of an ascertained current driving situation, the applied force accelerating the passenger away from a vehicle side structure in the direction of the middle of the vehicle if a predefined precrash situation is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Heiko Freienstein, Armin Koehler
  • Publication number: 20130026803
    Abstract: Described are airbag modules for a passenger seat having a seat back, a container coupled to the seat back, wherein the container includes at least one airbag, and a structure positioned aft of the seat back, wherein the structure includes a recess configured to receive the at least one airbag in a deployed state. In certain examples, the container also has a cover with a breakable line, and the structure also has a breakable area positioned aft of the recess, wherein the breakable line is configured to form an opening in the cover and the breakable area is configured to form an opening in the aft surface when a force is applied by the at least one airbag in a deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ZODIAC AEROSPACE
    Inventors: RAKIBUL ISLAM, ROBERT W. TRIMBLE, RAUL DANIEL FLORES AGUIRRE, FREDERIC QUATANENS, JEREMY CAILLETEAU, JEREMY GAUDIN, VIRGILE MARTINEZ, JEAN-MARC OBADIA
  • Publication number: 20130026804
    Abstract: A child safety seat assembly comprises a base, two connector arms assembled with the base, at least one latch assembled with the base and operable to lock the connector arms in position with the base, and at least a release actuator disposed between the connector arms and operatively connected with the latch. The connector arms are provided with locking fasteners operable to engage with an anchorage bracket in a vehicle to lock the base in place, the connector arms being movable relative to the base to adjust a length of extension of the connector arms outside the base. The release actuator is operable to drive an unlocking displacement of the latch to allow adjustment of the connector arms relative to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: WONDERLAND NURSERYGOODS COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventor: Zheng-Wen GUO
  • Publication number: 20130026805
    Abstract: A motion device that provides a soothing motion for a child seated within the device to replicate a parent or caregiver cradling and/or swaying the child. Embodiments include a base frame configured to rest on a support surface, a support frame coupled to and extending upward from the base frame, and a seat assembly which is pivotably coupled to the support frame. The seat assembly moves in an oscillating motion about the pivot axis, which is selectively propelled by a drive mechanism or motor. The drive mechanism or motor is coupled to and/or is integral to the assembly and its speed and motion is controlled electronically. The pivot axis about which the seat assembly rotates is preferably configured to be at least slightly offset from the vertical axis, such that the seat assembly will “self-center” when at rest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Jacob SCLARE, Alex SORIANO, Joseph W. STALEY
  • Publication number: 20130026806
    Abstract: The seat lifter device for a vehicle includes a lock/unlock device which is formed with an engagement/disengagement mechanism to produce a lock condition in which the relative rotation between a first rotation member and a second rotation member is restricted and an unlock condition in which the relative rotation therebetween is allowed by the engagement/disengagement operation of the engagement/disengagement mechanism such that a detent member movably supported on the first rotation member fixed to the base frame side engages with or disengages from the second rotation member fixed to the rear link member. This seat lifter device can firmly hold the seat lifted position even when an exterior force generated upon a vehicle collision is applied to the engagement/disengagement mechanism through the rear link member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yukifumi Yamada, Tateki Kawamura, Naoaki Hoshihara, Naoki Goto
  • Publication number: 20130026807
    Abstract: A furniture assembly supportable on a floor surface comprising first, second, and third structures. In a first configuration, the first, second, and third structures are detached from each other. In a second configuration, the first structure is detachably attached to the second structure and the first structure is detachably attached to the tertiary structure such that the at least three primary support portions, the at least one first secondary support portion, and the at least one first tertiary support portion engage the floor surface to support the primary base portion, the secondary base portion, and the tertiary base portion in a substantially planar arrangement to define a reclining surface. In a third configuration, the first structure is detachably attached to the second structure and the third structure is detachably attached to the second structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Welch
  • Publication number: 20130026808
    Abstract: A pivotal device of a vehicle seat includes ratchet and guide mounted together to be rotatable relative to each other, and pawls supported by the guide in its circumferential direction and having external teeth adapted to mesh with internal teeth of the ratchet when an operating cam pushes the pawls radially outward, so as to inhibit relative rotation of the ratchet and the guide. One of the pawls is divided obliquely into two parts in the circumferential direction, and is pushed radially outward to mesh with the ratchet while increasing its width and eliminating clearances between the pawl and the guide. The rotating cam rides on a protrusion formed on the guide during rotation thereof, so as to largely push the pawls and press the ratchet radially against the guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hideki URAMICHI, Takayuki ENDOU
  • Publication number: 20130026809
    Abstract: The invention relates to a seat adjuster (100) especially for a seat (105) in a motor vehicle, comprising an adjusting element (115), an electric adjusting device (110) and a transmission device (120) for transmitting adjusting forces between the electric adjusting device and the adjusting element, the transmission device comprising a transmission element (320) for transmitting adjusting forces and the transmission element being flexible at a right angle to the direction of the adjusting forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Andrew Pierson, Andreas Stock, Jens Schrader, Gilles Peter
  • Publication number: 20130026810
    Abstract: A cutting tool assembly for use in impinging earth strata includes a holder containing a bore having an axial forward end, and the holder having a forward surface surrounding the bore at the axial forward end of the bore. The assembly also includes a cutting tool being rotatably contained within the bore of the holder, and the cutting tool having a rearwardly facing shoulder. The assembly further includes a protective member positionable between the cutting tool and the holder. The protective member has a first surface adjacent the rearwardly facing shoulder of the cutting tool and a second surface adjacent to the forward surface of the holder, wherein the first surface has a first hardness that is greater than a second hardness of the second surface. In one aspect, the second surface of the protective member is in direct contact with the forward surface of the holder. In another aspect, the first surface of the protective member is in direct contact with the rearwardly facing shoulder of the cutting tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KENNAMETAL INC.
    Inventors: Randall Walter Ojanen, Don C. Rowlett
  • Publication number: 20130026811
    Abstract: A tool insert is provided for increasing the operating life of a tool bit made of both the tool insert and an associated tool body. The tool insert provides at least partial protection from wear during use of the tool bit and includes a tip free of hard edges or creases that increases the operating life of the tip. The tip may include a portion that has a diameter at least equal to or larger than the diameter of the connection end of the tool body. This increases the shielding ability of the tool insert during use and extends the operating life of the tool bit. The tool insert may comprising a cylindrical stem for engagement with the tool body, the cylindrical stem having a free base end opposite a body end; and a tip connected for engaging a worked surface, the tip comprising an outer surface without hard edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: BOUNDARY EQUIPMENT CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Alex Tutschek, Mihai Corabian, Dragan Bogojevic
  • Publication number: 20130026812
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a method and apparatus for the securing a secondary outer wheel surface to a primary skateboard wheel so as to change the performance characteristics of said skateboard. The apparatus is further directed to allowing a user to remove or secure said second wheel without the use of customized tools or devices. The present invention is also directed to securing a secondary wheel surface in a manner that prevents the primary wheel from impeding the motions of the skateboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph Palermo
  • Publication number: 20130026813
    Abstract: A Segmented Tire Apparatus for improving the reliability and performance of irrigation systems. The Segmented Tire Apparatus includes a plurality of arcuate tire segments coupleable end to end to form a circular tire. Each of the arcuate tire segments has a plurality of treads which may be radial, transverse, or semi-transverse. Additionally the apparatus may be filled with a closed cell foam to provide stability and rigidity while inhibiting water from collecting on the inside of the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Hagen Wilka & Archer LLP
    Inventor: Eric R. MacPherson
  • Publication number: 20130026814
    Abstract: A rim assembly includes a rim and multiple spoke units and each spoke unit has at least one fixing frame, a fixing member and at least one spoke. The at least one fixing frame is connected to the inside of the rim and has a passage through which the rod-like fixing member extends. The fixing member has at least one positioning hole so as to be connected to an end of a spoke. The other end of the spoke is connected to the hub. The fixing member is rotatable and swings relative to the at least one fixing frame to adjust the position for being connected with the spoke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: KUNSHAN HENRY METAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: KEE PING THO