Abstract: An airbag assembly can include a housing and an airbag cushion within the housing in a packaged state. The airbag cushion can include a rolled region and an accordion fold. The rolled region and the accordion fold can be positioned within the housing so as to provide a desired trajectory when the airbag cushion is inflated.

Abstract: Airbag covers include a covering portion adapted to at least substantially cover a portion of an airbag housing, and a plurality of tabs positioned to extend at least substantially transverse from the covering portion. The plurality of tabs are adapted to be coupled with a portion of an airbag housing. Each tab comprises an opening therein, and at least one tab of the plurality of tabs comprises at least one tear seam. Airbag modules including such covers further comprise a housing including an inflatable cushion and an inflator disposed at least partially therein. The housing comprises a plurality of cover retention components, each including a portion thereof disposed within an opening of a respective tab of the airbag cover. In forming an airbag cover, a covering portion with a plurality of tabs transversely extending therefrom are formed, and at least one tear seam is formed in at least one tab.

Abstract: An inflatable curtain airbag includes a luminescent visual marking indicating a proper installation of a compacted airbag bundle. Luminescent materials, when exposed to electromagnetic radiation of one frequency range, emit electromagnetic radiation in a different frequency range. This emitted radiation can be automatically detected by an optical detection device. The simplest marking consists of a line extending along the length of the airbag bundle. To facilitate recognition of the marking in an automated quality control, the marking may consist of a number of parallel lines, a portion of which may be broken lines, or a row of dots lined up along the length of the bundle. When the curtain airbag is compacted to a bundle, the marking may be located anywhere on the surface of the bundle in an area facing the interior of the vehicle.

Abstract: A side airbag for installation into a motor vehicle, a vehicle seat with such a side airbag and a motor vehicle with such a vehicle seat are described. The side airbag comprises at least one mounting device for mounting the side airbag on the backrest of the vehicle seat, an outer skin with a first side wall extending forwards, when viewed in the vehicle direction, and a second side wall connected to the first side wall. In order to be able, at as low a cost as possible, to protect the passengers to be protected better against a movement towards the middle of the vehicle, the second side wall extends essentially cross-ways to the vehicle direction when the outer skin is fully deployed and free from external forces, so that at least a third side wall connecting the first two side walls is present.

Abstract: A belt strap for a safety belt of a vehicle includes a belt interior located between two belt strap layers, to which belt interior a gas can be applied. A gas passage connecting at least two sections of the belt interior is provided between the at least two belt strap layers. The gas passage is secured at a first end in the region of an end fitting of the safety belt. The gas passage, which is designed as a flexible tube, is secured within the belt interior with at least a second end, which is located opposite the secured first end.

Abstract: There is disclosed a safety device for a motor vehicle. The device comprises an inflatable (6) element formed from two opposing layers of fabric (10, 11) and the two layers of fabric are interconnected by a plurality of tether yarns (18) extending between said layers. Each said tether yarn (18) is a composite yarn comprising an outer thread (21) and a core thread (20), with the outer thread (21) being overfed on the core thread (20) and having a higher breaking strength than the core thread (23). The device is preferably configured such that the core threads (20) of the tether yarns (18) break (23) upon inflation of said inflatable element (6), thereby permitting the outer thread (21) to unravel and extend the effective length of the tether yarns (18) between said layers.

Abstract: An airbag module having an airbag and an inflation device, wherein at least one rebound strap for controlling the inflation of the airbag is disposed in the airbag and attached to portions of the airbag that move away from each other when the airbag is inflated. A first, shorter rebound strip segment breaks after a first inflation stage and subsequently the airbag regions separate from each other until the second, longer segment of the rebound strap is tensioned and the inflation stage of the airbag is predefined by the second, longer segment of the rebound strap. The rebound strap thereof is formed from a uniform textile segment, the first, shorter segment of the rebound strap is formed as a tab cut out of the second, longer segment the tab being narrower and shorter than the second, longer segment of the rebound strap.

Abstract: A transaxle assembly (32) for mounting a drive axle assembly (38) to a vehicle backbone frame (36) includes a suspension body (18) having a receiving cavity (19) for receiving the backbone frame, and a plurality of frame members (4, 5, 9, 10) disposed generally transversely to the suspension body. The plurality of frame members (4, 5, 9, 10) are pivotally attached to the suspension body (18) at an upper end (44) of the frame members. The transaxle assembly (32) also includes a receiving structure (12) that receives the plurality of frame members at a lower end (45) of the frame members (4, 5, 9, 10). The receiving structure (12) has a receiving hole (13) that is generally parallel with the backbone frame for receiving the drive axle assembly (38). A cylinder (6, 7) extends between the suspension body (18) and the receiving structure (12).

Abstract: A media sock including at least one display surface carrying indicia to be displayed and a mounting assembly to mount the media sock relative to a mounting portion, wherein the at least one display surface is at least partially transparent to the non-visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum but visually opaque.

Abstract: A double postcard check mailer and a method of use therefore are described. The mailer is comprised of a check component and a payee data correction component detachably coupled to the check component. The mailer, when folded, has the dimensions of a double postcard. The mailer is sent to the payee of the check. The payee detaches the check component from the payee data correction component and cashes the check component. The payee further fills out the payee data correction component with updated information, such as a corrected address, and deposits the completed payee data correction component in the mail with postcard shipping postage. The original sender of the mailer receives the payee data correction component and updates the payee's information based on the data received in the completed payee data correction component.

Abstract: Improvements in security devices are provided that are used for authenticating or security applications. The security device includes a first color-shifting layer and a second color-shifting layer, which exhibits different reflective characteristics to the first color-shifting layer. A partial first light absorbing layer is between first surfaces of the first and second color-shifting layers and a second light absorbing layer applied to a second surface of the second color-shifting layer. The color of the partial first absorbing layer is selected to substantially match the color of light reflected at a normal angle of incidence by the combination of the second color-shifting layer and the second absorbing layer.

Abstract: Into a plastic card (1) of polycarbonate layers (10; 11; 12) there is laminated a security thread (3) by applying pressure and temperature, the security thread itself having a carrier foil (5) of polycarbonate and a coating (6) that is borne by the carrier foil and conveys holographic information. The connection of the polycarbonate carrier foil (5) of the security thread with the polycarbonate layer (10; 11; 12) of the data carrier adjoining said carrier foil takes place without using an adhesive or primer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection arrangement (500) for mechanically and fluidly connection a fuel filter to a fluid meter in a fuel dispenser and a method for assembly the connection arrangement. The connection arrangement comprises: a first part (100), a second part (200) and a filter holding part (300), all parts being connected along a common centre axis. Said first part comprises: an outlet (11) for fluid communication with an inlet of said fluid meter, a first connection interface (120) for mechanical connection to said fluid meter, an inlet (130) for fluid communication with the filter hold part, and a second connection interface (140) for mechanical connection to said second part. Said second part comprises: a third connection interface (210) for mechanical connection to said second connection interface (140), and a fourth connection interface (220) for mechanical connection to said filter holding pat (300).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit of parts (1), comprising plurality of hose connection parts (2,3) selectable from, first hose connection parts (2) comprising one fluid inlet (5) and one fluid outlet (8), second hose connection parts (3) comprising two fluid inlets (7,8) and one fluid outlet (9), and third hose connection parts comprising three fluid inlets and one fluid outlet, which kit of parts (1) is suitable for assembly a hose connection (61,82,83,64) having at least a first and second fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, according to any one of three configurations. The invention also relates to a fuel dispensing unit (85) for refueling vehicles and a method for assembly a hose connection.

Abstract: A roof flashing that can be installed around a pipe, instead of over the pipe, is provided. The roof flashing can include a collar, a base, a foot, and a longitudinal opening. The collar can have a conical shape, and the base can have a top edge and a bottom edge such that the top edge of the base is coupled to a bottom edge of the collar. The foot can be coupled to the bottom edge of the base and extend outwardly from the bottom edge of the base. The longitudinal opening can extend from an apex of the collar to an edge of the foot and can include first, second, and third sections. A width of the longitudinal opening can increase when first and second edges of the opening are pulled away from each other.

Abstract: A coupling member assembly for a flexible hose, the flexible hose automatically expands longitudinally and laterally upon the application of a fluid pressure. Upon release of the fluid pressure within the hose, the hose will automatically contract to a contracted condition. The hose includes an inner tube made from an elastic material and an outer tube made from a non-elastic material that secured together by the coupling member. The inner tube is positioned concentrically within the outer tube in both a contracted condition and an expanded condition. The outer tube is secured to the inner tube only at a first end of the inner and outer tubes by use of a male coupler member and at a second end of the inner and outer tubes by use of a female coupler member. The outer tube moves laterally and longitudinally with respect to the inner tube when the tubes are transitioning between a contracted condition and an expanded condition.

Abstract: A utility service apparatus having at least one utility segment with a conduit system having an elongated body. A coupling structure is positioned at both ends. The coupling structure at one end is attachable to the coupling structure at the other end. A plurality of utility service components extend through the elongated body. Coupling a first end of a first utility segment with the second end of another utility segment assembly operably connects each of the plurality of utility service components to another utility segment assembly. Some of the segment assemblies include a unit head positioned along the elongated body. The unit head has a plurality of utility service ports coupled to the utility service components. Service implements can be attached thereto.

Abstract: A misalignment ball joint fitting includes first and second body portion coupled together and having spherical inner surfaces. A ball secured inside the body portions has a passage therein. The passage has a funnel shaped portion in a first end portion of the ball. The ball is allowed to at least partially rotate when secured inside the first and second body portions. A guide sleeve is coupled to the first body portion. The guide sleeve is coaxial with the ball passage. A recess is in an inner surface of the ball near a center of the ball. An end of the guide sleeve extends into at least a portion of the recess when the ball is in a neutral position with walls of the passage in the ball parallel to walls of the guide sleeve.

Abstract: A sealing and restraint mechanism operable to couple pipes having a restraint mechanism with a cavity formed in an interior region, and a gripping insert operable to be received within the cavity. The cavity of the restraint mechanism is at least partially defined by a stop and a shoulder. The gripping insert is operable to slide along the cavity and between the stop and the shoulder of the restraint mechanism such that, when the gripping insert slides toward the stop, the gripping insert is biased toward one of the pipes by the restraint mechanism.

Abstract: A liquid-tight fitting comprising a ground element including a ferrule and a tube that extends from the ferrule to receive a conduit, wherein the tube includes one or more protruding elements that each protrudes from the tube and provides grounding to the conduit, and wherein the ferrule includes a lip portion; a threading element including a first shaft having a circumference sufficient to receive the ferrule portion, wherein the first shaft includes threads; a sealing ring including an opening defined by a tapered portion to seat against the lip portion; and a nut including threads to be received by the first shaft, wherein as the nut is threaded with the first shaft, the sealing ring is compressed onto an outer surface of the wall of the conduit based on a pulling of the nut against the sealing ring toward the lip portion of the ferrule.

Abstract: This invention relates to a shrink sleeve (300) for joining the casing of two insulated pipes lying end-to-end, where the shrink sleeve (300) has a tubular shape comprising a first polymer-based material (320) susceptible to irradiation. The tubular shape of the shrink sleeve (300) consists of the first polymer-based material (320) and a second polymer-based material (322), where the second polymer-based material (322) is resistant to the irradiation. Further, the second polymer-based material (322) can be weldable.

Abstract: An ocean wave energy converter uses one or more buoyant elongated float(s) self orienting toward oncoming wave fronts and movably affixed to a motion stabilized controlled buoyancy frame by down sloping tracks constraining the wave induced motion of the float(s) to an upward and rearward motion as oncoming wave crests impact and lift the barrier(s) and downward and forward as subsequent wave troughs return it. Motion between the barrier(s) and the frame is resisted and energy captured by a programmable electric or hydraulic power take off system. Capture efficiency is further enhanced by adjusting float mass and buoyancy by controlling water entering or exiting cavities in the float(s), use of wave shoaling and focusing means, and adjusting the submerged depth and slope angle of the device with adjustable frame air-water ballast tanks which also allow total float submergence during severe sea states.

Abstract: This invention is intended to provide a wind power generator system or method for controlling a wind power generator system, designed to implement switching-initiated smooth energy changeover without leading to a complex system configuration. The method of controlling a wind power generator system according to an aspect of the invention, wherein the generator system includes a wind turbine that uses wind to generate electric power and a control device that controls the wind turbine, is a control method designed so that when the wind turbine is generating power, the turbine drives the control device by use of the turbine-generated power, irrespective of an electric power system state.

Abstract: A technique facilitates powering of devices at a subsea location without requiring routing of hydraulic pressure and/or electric signals through an umbilical from a surface location. A fluid flow, such as an injection chemical fluid flow, is at least partially routed through a flow converter disposed at a subsea location. The flow converter converts energy from the fluid flow to energy used to operate a power generation device. The power generation device may be designed to generate electrical, hydraulic, or other suitable power which is utilized at the subsea location.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting wave energy into electrical energy comprising a first floating hull (201) interconnected to a second floating hull (202). A winch mechanism for use in raising a weight suspended on a cable (14). The winch mechanism is operated in response to movement of the first hull (201) relative to the second hull (202), and a generator driven by the downward movement of the weight. Moreover, a method for converting wave energy into electrical energy.

Abstract: A fluid actuated energy generator comprises; an output shaft (44) rotatably mounted in a housing (54), a first linkage (36) arranged to rotate with the output shaft (44) and extending in an axis orthogonal to the axis of the output shaft (44), a second linkage (22) rotatably mounted in relation to the first linkage at the radially most distal end thereof, the first and second linkages (36, 22) arranged for rotation in parallel planes, an actuating arm (4) rotatably mounted in relation to the second linkage (22) at the radially most distal end thereof and arranged for rotation in a parallel plane with the first and second linkages (36,22) and at least one blade (2) rotatably mounted in relation to the arm (4) at the radially most distal end thereof and arranged for rotation in a parallel plane with the arm (4), first and second linkages (36, 22), the longitudinal axis of the blade (2) extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the arm (4).

Abstract: Energy used to create a fluid flow through a passageway, e.g., a municipal water system, is partially recovered downstream, e.g., at a residential location. An example energy system includes a primary passageway receiving a first fluid from an external source. The primary passageway includes a first region having a first cross sectional area and a second region having a second cross sectional area. The second cross sectional area is different than the first cross sectional area. The first fluid moves from the first region to the second region. A secondary passageway extends from the second region. A turbine is disposed in the secondary passageway. The movement of the first fluid through the primary passageway causes a movement of a second fluid in the secondary passageway, and the movement of the second fluid in the secondary passageway drives the turbine to generate energy.

Abstract: A guiding apparatus for guiding a flow of a fluid for use with a rotor, the rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly surrounding a central space which is enclosed save via the vane assembly and being arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, the guiding apparatus comprising a screening for guiding the fluid to circulate substantially about the vertical axis within the central space in the same direction as the rotor during use.

Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an engine driven generator that includes a first electrical fan and a second electrical fan. The engine driven generator further includes a power source and a circuit connecting the power source to the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan. The circuit is configured to selectively connect the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan in series or in parallel. The circuit may operate the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan at full speed when the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan are electrically connected in parallel. The circuit may operate the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan at less than full speed when the first electrical fan and the second electrical fan are electrically connected in series.

Abstract: Some embodiments relate to a generator that includes an alternator and an engine. The engine includes an output shaft that is coupled to a rotor of the alternator. The generator further includes a first fan that initially directs air in a first direction which is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the output shaft. A second fan that directs air in a second direction that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft. The generator further includes an enclosure such that the alternator, the engine, the first fan and the second fan are within the enclosure. In some embodiments, the generator may further include a third fan that directs air in the direction that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft and a fourth fan that directs air in a direction that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft.

Abstract: Fluid-driven power generation apparatus and system for generating electricity and method of assembling the fluid-driven power generation apparatus. The fluid-driven power generation apparatus and system comprises a container for containing a fluid, such as water. An electrically operable pump pumps the fluid from the container to a nozzle disposed near a turbine wheel. The pump is powered by batteries, so that the pump operates pollution-free without combustion of fossil fuels. Fluid from the nozzle jets onto the turbine wheel to rotate the turbine wheel. The nozzle and turbine wheel are configured so that optimal rotation of the turbine wheel is achieved for efficient electricity generation. An electrical generator coupled to the turbine wheel generates electricity as the turbine wheel rotates. The electricity generated is supplied to an end user and any excess electricity is provided to an electrical transmission grid.

Abstract: A thermodynamic cycle is disclosed and has a working fluid circuit that converts thermal energy into mechanical energy on hot days. A pump circulates a working fluid to a heat exchanger that heats the working fluid. The heated working fluid is then expanded in a power turbine. The expanded working fluid is then cooled and condensed using one or more compressors interposing at least two intercooling components. The intercooling components cool and condense the working fluid with a cooling medium derived at ambient temperature, where the ambient temperature is above the critical temperature of the working fluid.

Abstract: An electromagnetic device is provided and includes a stator defining a bore, a rotor rotatable within the stator bore and having permanent magnetic elements disposed about an outer surface thereof to define a series of magnetic poles, power coils configured to generate a power current as a first portion of the magnetic poles pass each of the power coils due to rotor rotation and sense coils configured to generate a sense current as a second portion of the magnetic poles pass each of the sense coils due to the rotor rotation.

Abstract: A child-proof safety locking system may include an elastomeric loop. The loop may have at least one locking ball attached at a bottom end of the loop so that when the loop is wrapped around an object, a top end of the loop surrounds the locking ball and the top end of the loop is held in position overlying the bottom end of the loop.

Abstract: A bumper reinforcement includes end portions and an intermediate portion, wherein the bumper reinforcement is made of a light alloy extruded material including a hollow cross-section and is configured to be arranged at a vehicle, the bumper reinforcement is configured to be assembled on and supported by a supporting member at each of the end portions bent toward a vehicle body side, the hollow cross-section includes a closed cross-section at the intermediate portion and includes an open cross-section provided with an opening at each of the end portions, each of the end portions is formed in a manner that a thickness of the hollow cross-section thereof in a vehicle front-rear direction is gradually reduced toward an end, and each of the openings is configured to be at least partially closed with a connecting portion of the supporting member and is restricted from being expanded.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a support device is provided for at least one covering element, in particular of a bumper device of a motor vehicle having at least one support body, on which at least one covering element can be arranged or is arranged, and having at least one support unit, which can be fixed or is fixed to the support body and to a vehicle structure or an impact device, which supports the support body when a load acting on the support body is less than a defined load and which releases the support body for a movement when the load acting on the support body exceeds the defined load.

Abstract: In an embodiment, multi-stage energy absorbing system can comprise: a thermoplastic flanged frame and a crush lobe having a proximal base aligned with the flanged frame and a distal end protruding from the flanged frame. The crush lobe comprises a central slab and slab pairs such that the crush lobe comprises a total of 2i+1 slabs, wherein i is the number of slab pairs and is greater than or equal to 1. The slabs are disposed in a stepped arrangement and configured to absorb impact energy by collapsing in a telescopic manner with increasing energy level.

Abstract: A gripper mechanism for a downhole tool is disclosed that includes a linkage mechanism. In operation, an axial force generated by a power section of the gripper expands the linkage mechanism, which applies a radial force to the interior surface of a wellbore or passage. For certain expansion diameters, the expansion force can be primarily transmitted from a roller-ramp interface expanding the linkage. For other expansion diameters, the expansion force can be primarily provided by expansion of the linkage, in which during a first stage the expansion force is primarily provided by a first link and during a second stage the expansion force is primarily provided by a second link. Thus, the gripper can provide a desired expansion force over a large range of expansion diameters.

Abstract: A panel gripping and lifting device (100) having a clamping assembly (105) having a handle assembly (162) rotatably interrelated with a spaced apart opposing jaw assembly (107) by a cam assembly (149). Jaws of the opposing jaw assembly (107) have a planar jaw inner surface (116); when the spacing between the jaws is increased, the planar jaws are fitted on either side of a panel; when the spacing between the jaws is lessened the planar jaws contact surfaces of the panel exerting a gripping force against the panel. When gripping forces are exerted against the panel the handle assembly (162) enables the lifting and moving of the panel such as seated multipane window (220) window frame (200) having an outwardly extending nail fin (210) or a sheet metal panel. An alternative embodiment has opposing jaws rotating in the same plane and separated by jaw spacing.

Abstract: A protective case is for use on a tablet mobile device. The tablet mobile device has a front face, rear face and four side faces connecting the front face. The protective case comprises a frame body comprising a bottom portion for supporting the rear face and a holding portion extending from the bottom portion and at least partially bent for lying on the front face; a sealing member comprising an assistant holding portion for surrounding and holding, in cooperation with the frame body, the tablet mobile device; and a handle member mounted on the frame body and/or the sealing member. The protective case has the advantages of having a simple structure for convenient installation and protecting the exterior of the computer without hiding its display screen. Additionally, the handle member adapts an ergonomic design by using user's arm as support for the computer.

Abstract: A trim panel for an interior upper surface of a roof of a vehicle includes a plurality of hanging features disposed thereon. Each of the hanging features includes a slot defined by the trim panel, and a hanging portion extending across the slot. The hanging portion is configured to support a clothes hanger thereon. The trim panel may extend laterally across a width of the vehicle, transverse to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and may be disposed adjacent a rear closure assembly, such as a hatchback of an SUV or other similar vehicle.

Abstract: An overhead console of the vehicle may include a housing provided on a front portion of an indoor ceiling of the vehicle and having a downwardly open accommodation portion formed therein, a glass case accommodated in the accommodation portion and rotatably coupled to the housing around a rotating shaft that may be formed on a front side surface of the housing in a traverse direction of the vehicle, and a conversation mirror rotatably coupled with the housing in the accommodation portion and selectively engaged with a rear portion of the glass case.

Abstract: The vehicle security partition has a barrier that separates the interior compartment of an automotive vehicle into front and rear seating areas in order to inhibit contact between front seating area occupants and rear seating area occupants. A bi-directional recessed housing is part of the barrier which is supported by a frame and provides leg-room for the rear seating area occupant while allowing for full rearward adjustment of the driver's seat. The bi-directional recessed housing also includes a recessed area for storing articles in the front seating area.

Abstract: A seat apparatus for a vehicle, in which a seat back may be foldable toward a seat cushion of a seat, may include a storage space provided at the bottom of a floor and storing the seat to provide a luggage space in the vehicle, a link member pivotally connected between a cushion link of the seat cushion and the storage space such that the seat may be foldable to be stored in the storage space, a locking device provided on the seat back to maintain an unfolded or folded state of the seat back, and an elastic member provided on the link member to pop up the cushion link and the seat back out of the storage space when the seat back may be unfolded.

Abstract: An Automatic Window Cover of the invention allows a vehicle user to activate motorized window shades that may include a reflective surface to reflect light that may otherwise cause the vehicle to heat up.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing the drag of a trailer is provided. The apparatus can further include a pair of fairings configured to be positioned on opposite sides of a trailer in front of wheels on the bottom of a trailer, a pair of fairings configured to be positioned on opposite sides of a trailer behind the wheels on the bottom of a trailer, with both pairs of fairings placed and shaped to direct the air smoothly around the wheels and tires and through the center of the trailer. The apparatus can also include a ramp in front of the suspension components, aerodynamically shaped wings on the axles, and a rear diffuser, such components configured to direct air smoothly between the trailer suspension and the ground. The directed high energy air from the apparatus results in a reduced trailer base drag.

Abstract: A vehicle cowl component configured to extend between a hood's rear edge and a vehicle front windshield comprises a cowl and a seal, the seal including a U-shaped cross section attached to the under-hood edge and having upwardly extending front and rear curved walls, each of the curved walls having an unconnected free end. In one embodiment, the seal is two-shot molded onto the cowl, which eliminates secondary attachment operations. A method includes steps of first-shot molding a cowl, and then second-shot molding a U-shaped seal onto the cowl along an under-hood front edge. A modified cowl includes a seal with a downwardly extending wiper for sealing engagement with a body support structure under the cowl and seal.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a vehicle structural pillar, includes: forming an inner panel with a first flange; forming an outer panel with a second flange; and clinching the second flange over the first flange so as to secure the inner panel and outer panel together by the first and second flanges.

Abstract: A longitudinal frame for the chassis structure of a motor vehicle is provided. The frame includes at least two longitudinal sections, which are joined together to form a shared longitudinal structure by having the longitudinal sections at least partially overlap each other in an overlap region. One of the longitudinal sections of the frame has a side panel, which in the overlap region exhibits a connecting section for attachment to a floor panel, and the other longitudinal section exhibits a counter-panel in the overlap region that at least partially abuts against the side panel. The abutment of the counter-panel against the side panel remains outside of the connecting section. The frame includes at least one longitudinal structure, and the longitudinal structure and at least one of the longitudinal sections together extend over a longitudinal section of the longitudinal frame.

Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a seat main body, a heating portion provided in the seat main body, a degree-of-contact measuring portion that measures a degree of contact between the seat main body and an occupant seated on the seat main body, and a control portion that controls an amount of heat output from the heating portion such that the amount of heat increases according to an increase in the degree of contact between the seat main body and the occupant, and decreases according to a decrease in the degree of contact between the seat main body and the occupant.