Patents Issued in May 9, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130113240
    Abstract: A foldable infant seat includes a support frame including two generally U-shaped support members, each U-shaped support member pivotally connecting with the other at a central location of the U-shaped support member such that the support frame is foldable between a first configuration in which corresponding ends of the U-shaped support members are separated from each other and a second configuration in which the corresponding ends of the U-shaped support members are disposed in close proximity to each other. A flexible seat member is securable to the support frame. In one embodiment, a canopy is pivotally secured to the support frame. The canopy can include at least one pocket configured to store one or more items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: MATTEL, INC.
    Inventors: Kurt J. Huntsberger, Maarten Van Huystee, Gregory S. Young
  • Publication number: 20130113241
    Abstract: On a rear side of seat back, a trim cover assembly of the seat back includes an openable first cover portion disposed centrally thereof and a pair of second cover portions disposed on opposite sides of the first cover portion. A pair of female fastener assemblies are provided to two lateral ends of the first cover portion, respectively, and each comprises: an anchor element; a female fastener element; and a connecting element connected between the anchor and female fastener elements. The anchor element is securely engaged with a seat back frame, thereby neatly securing the two lateral ends of the first cover to the rear side of seat back. The male fastener element is securely engaged with the female fastener element, thereby neatly securing the two second cover portions to the rear side of seat back in alignment with the two lateral ends of the first cover portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Fumiaki Tsuchiya, Michael Dwayne Welch, Joseph Anthony Niemiec
  • Publication number: 20130113242
    Abstract: A bicycle seat clamp assembly is disclosed herein which comprises upper and lower members to provide a vertical clamping force to the rails of a seat to attach a seat to the seat post. The upper and lower members are actuated by a horizontal fastening device which can be tightened or loosened with one hand. The bicycle seat clamp assembly provides for fine tuning of a front to back angular tilt as preferred by the user. Moreover, the seat post can be rotated to the forward direction or the rearward direction to increase a front to back adjustment range of the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Brendan Connors
  • Publication number: 20130113243
    Abstract: A vehicle seat comprises: left and right base frames (side portions 52, 53 of a pipe frame 5) which constitute left and right portions of a seat back frame (2); a force-receiving member (bracket 7) disposed adjacent to a left or right outer side of one base frame (side portion 53), and configured to receive a load from outside in a lateral direction; and a load transmission part (a lower frame 6 and a lower portion 51 of the pipe frame 5) configured to transmit the load from the force-receiving member to a side laterally opposite to that on which the force-receiving member is provided. The force-receiving member has a shape with a closed cross section, and has an input-side end portion (7a) and an output-side end portion (7b), such that the input-side end portion stretches out in at least one of upward, downward, frontward and rearward directions wider than the output-side end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kaku, Jogen Yamaki, Hisato Oku
  • Publication number: 20130113244
    Abstract: A vehicle seat comprises: left and right base frames (side portions 52, 53 of pipe frame 5) which extend in an upward-and-downward direction and constitute left and right portions of a seat back frame (2); a pressure-receiving member (10) disposed between the left and right base frames, and configured to move rearward upon receipt of a rearward load of a predetermined magnitude or greater from an occupant; a force-receiving member (bracket 7) disposed adjacent to a left or right outer side of one base frame (side portion 53), and configured to receive a load from outside in a lateral direction; and a load transmission part (lower portion 51 of pipe frame 5) disposed under the pressure-receiving member (10), connected to a lower end of the one base frame, and configured to transmit the load from the force-receiving member to a side laterally opposite to that on which the force-receiving member is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kaku, Jogen Yamaki, Hisato Oku
  • Publication number: 20130113245
    Abstract: A vehicle seat comprises: a base frame (side frames 4, pipe frame 5) which constitutes left and right lower portions of a seat back frame; a force-receiving member (bracket 7) disposed adjacent to a left or right outer side of the base frame, and configured to receive a load from outside in a lateral direction; and a load transmission part (lower portion 51 and lower frame) configured to transmit the load from the force-receiving member to a side laterally opposite to that on which the force-receiving member is provided. The force-receiving member has a shape with a closed cross section, and a portion of at least one of the front wall and the rear wall (front wall 81) separate from upper and lower ends thereof provides an uneven shape (recessed portions 81a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kaku, Jogen Yamaki, Hisato Oku
  • Publication number: 20130113246
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle seat having a sufficient strength against an impact load due to collision in a peripheral structure of a side frame and having a reduced size of the peripheral structure of the side frame. The vehicle seat includes a seat back frame having a side portion located on a lateral side, a load input member arranged on the lateral side of the seat back frame so that a load from another member is input thereto, a pressure receiving member coupled to the seat back frame via a joint member and supporting an occupant, and an impact reduction member arranged on at least one side of the side portion, engaging with the joint member, and moving the pressure receiving member rearward by an impact load applied to the pressure receiving member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: TS TECH CO., LTD
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Kaku
  • Publication number: 20130113247
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adjustment device for motor vehicle seats, in particular a height adjustment device, comprising a length-adjustable control unit which is suitable for adjusting and supporting a seat structure with respect to a seat base assembly and which can be articulated at one end to the seat structure and at the other end to the seat base assembly. In order to provide an adjustment device and a motor vehicle seat comprising an adjustment device, in which a bending direction of the adjustment device is predetermined in the event of a crash, the control unit is designed at least one of at one end and at both ends to be a pivotable and, in the event of a crash, slidable mounting with respect to at least one of the seat structure and the seat base assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Nils Magnus, Markus Gumbrich
  • Publication number: 20130113248
    Abstract: A foldable chair, operable between a seating configuration and a rolling transport configuration, the foldable chair comprising a plurality of legs with a roller secured to the distal end of each leg and the proximal end of each leg secured to a column base. Extending from the column base is a column with a first and second end, the column first end secured to the column base and the second end of the column secured to a first platform or seat cushion. A second platform extends downwardly from the first platform for attaching a carrying case. Also included is a backrest rotatably secured to the first platform such that when the backrest is perpendicular to the first platform two roller elements are fully shrouded. When the backrest is rotated 90 degrees and disposed substantially parallel to the seat cushion the roller elements are exposed for rolling contact with the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Brenda D. Rahm
  • Publication number: 20130113249
    Abstract: A chair with a control mechanism with a base structure, a seat bottom structure supported by the base structure, a seat back structure supported by the base structure, a control mechanism supported by the base structure, a power source and means for electrically coupling the power source to the control mechanism and an electrical port, wireless transmitter, or other electrical communicator for producing electrical communication relative to the control mechanism. The power source can be a portable power source that plugs into the connector of the control mechanism. One or more electrical sensors can be retained relative to the seat bottom or seat back structures and memory can be provided for retaining data from the electrical sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Sava Cvek
  • Publication number: 20130113250
    Abstract: An electromechanical actuation system for an aircraft passenger suite for allowing passenger-initiated adjustment of a passenger seat and related passenger accoutrements including a suite control unit configured to receive command signals from a user interface, and a first line replacement unit comprising a first integral electronic control unit and a second line replacement unit coupled to the first line replacement, wherein the first electronic control unit controls operation of the first line replacement unit and the second line replacement unit in response to command signals received from the suite control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130113251
    Abstract: The invention provides a home office chair cover which can be coordinated with desk and office sets and accessories in the same patterns. The Home Office Chair Cover includes a product line of decorative form fitting seat covers, backrest covers and armrest covers designed for standard office chairs. These covers consist of form fitting, snugly tailored, elastic bordered and sturdy fabric slipcovers for chair seats, backrests and armrests. The seat covers are produced in a variety of solid colors and print patterns while the seatback and armrest covers are produced in a variety of colors and print patterns designed to complement the seat covers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Marylee First
  • Publication number: 20130113252
    Abstract: A seat device for supporting a sitting person includes: a first movably supported partial seat for supporting the person and a second partial seat for supporting the person, which is movably supported independently of the first partial seat and which can be combined with the first partial seat to form a whole seat. In order to enable better sitting, for each partial seat a pivot bearing spring device is provided, said pivot bearing spring device having a first pivot axis extending in a longitudinal direction, about which the respective partial seat can be pivoted while sprung with a first spring constant, and a second pivot axis extending in a transverse direction, about which the respective partial seat can be pivoted while sprung with a second spring constant, wherein each partial seat is associated with the respective pivot bearing spring device by means of a lever arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: INNO-MOTION AG
    Inventor: Patrik Kuenzler
  • Publication number: 20130113253
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tilting device (5) for a chair, comprising a lower plate (6) and an upper plate (7). An elastic body (8) is located therebetween. The lower plate (6) has a bulge (9) in the vertical direction, by means of which the tilting device (5) is placed onto the upper end of a gas spring (2). The seat plate (3) of the chair is fastened to the upper plate (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: TOPSTAR GMBH
    Inventors: Stefan Meyer, Peter Wagner
  • Publication number: 20130113254
    Abstract: A chair and method of use is for a chair disposed upon a surface that is designed for a female anatomy; the chair includes a seat having proximate and distal end portions forming a first convex surface with a chord plane intersecting, the having a length shorter than its width. The chair includes a back having first and second end portions that form a second convex surface, wherein, a second lateral measure on the second end is less than a first lateral measure on the first end. The seat plane and an extension axis that is perpendicular to the surface are relatively positioned to one another to form an acute angle to one another, such that a user's femur bone lengthwise angles downward from hip to knee toward the surface while the user's shoulders arch rearward thus aligning the user's hip joint and shoulder joint vertically for better posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Betty A. Augustat
  • Publication number: 20130113255
    Abstract: A seat assembly includes a track mount configured to shift along a track and a platform configured to selectively latch to, unlatch from, and pivot relative to the track mount. The assembly also includes a seat-back and a seat-cushion, each connected to the platform and configured to selectively latch to, unlatch from, and pivot relative to the platform. The assembly additionally includes a first mechanism configured to selectively operate the seat assembly in a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes unlatching and pivoting the seat-back and unlatching and pivoting the platform such that the seat assembly tumbles relative to the track. The second mode includes unlatching and pivoting the seat-cushion and unlatching and pivoting the seat-back such that the seat-back comes to rest substantially parallel to the track mount. A vehicle having the seat assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: LEAR CORPORATION, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Rainer A. Glaser, Krzysztof Wroblewski, Stanislaw A. Wieclawski
  • Publication number: 20130113256
    Abstract: A seat leveling device is disclosed for stabilizing the seat of a vehicle when moving over uneven terrain. The seat leveling device comprises a vehicle and a seat secured to the vehicle. The vehicle is typically a hillside lift used to carry passengers and goods back and forth between a hilltop and a bottom of the hill. The seat leveling device further comprises a detection component and a drive component, wherein the detection component is in communication with the drive component. Specifically, the detection component detects a position of the seat and transmits a signal to the drive component when the seat becomes unleveled. In one embodiment, the detection component is a pendulum and the drive component is a hydraulic pump and cylinder. The pendulum is secured to the seat, and swings when the seat becomes unleveled, which activates the hydraulic pump and cylinder to level the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Alvin Allen
  • Publication number: 20130113257
    Abstract: A vehicle including a seat base having a first slide assembly disposed on each of first and second sides of the seat base. A first support column is disposed below the seat base and is positioned between the first and second sides of the seat base. A second support column is disposed below the second side of the seat base. A brace connects the second support column to a transmission hump of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Johnathan Andrew Line, Kendrick Alden Harper, John W. Jaranson, Harry Zhong, Daniel Ferretti, Khaled Ayyash, Robert J. Sack
  • Publication number: 20130113258
    Abstract: An articulated seating system supports a user seat using a mounting assembly, a fore-aft slide assembly, a swivel assembly and an extension assembly driven by a drive packet having one or more motors or the like. The seat is moved from a secured drive position (e.g., a standard interior vehicle seat position) to an extension position (wherein the seat faces out of a vehicle doorway) and finally to an access position outside the vehicle, facilitating access for a user having limited mobility, strength, etc. Extendible supporting arms engage and enclose guide rollers to allow stable and precise control of lateral and vertical seat movement. Moving between the drive and extension positions, the seat can move through a narrow transition corridor in the motor vehicle. The motors can operate manually to allow securing the seat in the drive position despite power or other failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130113259
    Abstract: An adjustment mechanism (20) for an article of furniture includes a support structure (22) securable to a seat base of the article of furniture. A carrier (24) is displaceably arranged relative to the support structure (22), the carrier (24) being configured to mount a component (12) of the article of furniture. A link assembly (26) interconnects the support structure (22) and the carrier (24). The link assembly (26) comprises at least one linkage mechanism (52) which causes initial, substantially linear motion of the carrier (24) relative to the support structure (22) to become substantially rotary motion as the carrier (24) moves from a first position to a second position relative to the seat base of the article of furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Charles Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130113260
    Abstract: A locking mechanism of a seat for a vehicle, the seat including a seat back and a seat base, the locking mechanism including a recliner that reclines the seat back and locks the seat back in a position, the recliner and a memory ring being located on the axis, and when the memory ring is held relative to the recliner the seat back returns to an original position when the seat back travels in a forward direction from the original position past an upright position and then moves in a rearward direction back to the original position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Yasuhiro KOJIMA
  • Publication number: 20130113261
    Abstract: A reclining apparatus achieves enhanced ease of coming off of a pole from a ratchet plate and hence a better operational feeling. Of a plurality of external teeth of a pole, at least one external tooth from an end is formed in such a manner that a tooth thickness is lessened more toward a tooth tip in comparison with a tooth thickness of other external teeth. The external tooth having a lessened tooth thickness is cut in one of two tooth planes located on a side of the end. The cut tooth plane has an inclined surface parallel to a flat surface containing all tangential lines to a pitch circle of one of two tooth planes of an external tooth having a large tooth thickness and situated adjacent to the external tooth having a lessened tooth thickness located on a side of the external tooth having a lessened tooth thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: SHIROKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: SHIROKI CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130113262
    Abstract: Provided is a headrest structure. The headrest structure includes an ergonomically shaped hole in the shape of a back of a human head formed in a soft-textured material of latex foam or memory foam, and an auxiliary tray and frame that can be assembled with the back of a chair to relieve a neck and a head from discomfort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Hae-hyun Nam
  • Publication number: 20130113263
    Abstract: A seat adjustment apparatus for a vehicle includes a first bracket, a second bracket defining an accommodating void with the first bracket, a pawl, and a pawl reverse spring, The pawl includes a ratchet portion, a pawl side reverse wall portion, and a pawl side return wall portion, the ratchet portion allowing a relative rotation of the first and second brackets in a first direction and prohibiting a relative rotation of the first and second brackets in a second direction in a case where the pawl is biased to rotate in a normal direction, the pawl side reverse wall portion allowing the relative rotation in the second direction so that the pawl is reversed by being biased to rotate in a reverse direction, the pawl side return wall portion bringing the pawl to be returned by being biased to rotate in the normal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
  • Publication number: 20130113264
    Abstract: A chair comprises a seat and a seat back made of non-resilient materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Loan Kim Thi Pham
  • Publication number: 20130113265
    Abstract: There is provided a vehicle seat including a seat structure member, and a fan device installed on the seat structure member. The seat structure member includes a cushion material which configures an outer shape of the seat and supports an occupant, an air flow passage which communicates a seating side of the seat structure member with a surface of the cushion material at a side different from the seating side of the seat structure member, and a cover member which is configured to cover the air flow passage to allow a fan device to feed air to an occupant via the air flow passage. At least one of the cushion material and the cover member is formed with a recess portion which is positioned around the air flow passage, and the cover member is fixed to the surface of the cushion material with an adhesive in the recess portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
  • Publication number: 20130113266
    Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a chair with at least one leg that rests on a floor surface. The apparatus includes a body with a receiver. The receiver is configured to snugly receive the at least one chair leg. The apparatus also includes a base that is resiliently secured with respect to the body. The base is configured to engage the floor surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Carrie CALLAHAN
  • Publication number: 20130113267
    Abstract: A head and neck restraint system includes a vertical support and a head and neck restraint assembly coupled to the vertical support. The head and neck restraint assembly includes a pair of spaced members coupled to the vertical support. The pair of spaced members have a spring memory that permits movement of one of said members toward and away from the other member or movement of both of said members toward and away from each other. One or more spring biased wedges avoid the spring memory from returning one or both of the spaced members to a starting position after movement of one of the members toward the other member or movement of both of the members towards each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: George Davis
  • Publication number: 20130113268
    Abstract: A rim flange trim ring adapted to be attached to a rim flange adapted to support a tire, the rim including a cylindrical body portion including a first end and a second end, the first and second ends each terminating in a radially outward extending rim. The rim flange trim ring includes a generally annular body having a U-shaped cross-section, and the rim flange trim ring is adapted to be placed on and to receive the rim flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Zvonko Dimovski
  • Publication number: 20130113269
    Abstract: A wheel for use with a bicycle is provided, the wheel comprising a hub about which the wheel is mountable to a bicycle, a rim about which a tire is mountable, and a plurality of spokes that extend between the hub and the rim. The rim and/or one or more of the spokes have a leading and/or trailing edge, at least part of which has an undulating configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Dimitrios Katsanis
  • Publication number: 20130113270
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided to reduce a hard brake pedal feel. A brake control variable is adjusted in anticipation of a hard pedal condition to increase hydraulic brake line pressure and maintain a normal pedal feel. A pedal force is inferred from brake line pressure relative to brake booster vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Ross Dykstra Pursifull, Moses Alexander Fridman, Ralph Wayne Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20130113271
    Abstract: Disclosed is a brake actuating unit for actuating a motor vehicle brake system of the ‘brake-by-wire’ type. The system includes a brake booster which is operable in response to the driver's wish both by a brake pedal and by an electronic control unit. A device is provided to decouple a force-transmitting connection between the brake pedal and the brake booster in the ‘brake-by-wire’ operating mode. A master brake cylinder connected downstream of the brake booster, a device to detect a deceleration request of the driver, and a pedal travel simulator which interacts with the brake pedal and due to which a resetting force acting on the brake pedal can be simulated in the ‘brake-by-wire’ operating mode independently of an actuation of the brake booster, and which can be enabled in the ‘brake-by-wire’ operating mode when the force-transmitting connection between the brake pedal and the brake booster is decoupled and can be disabled outside the ‘brake-by-wire’ operating mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Holger von Hayn, Jürgen Schonlau, Manfred Rüffer, Wolfgang Ritter, Holger Kranlich, Jose Gonzalez, Thomas Sellinger, Milan Klimes, Torsten Queisser, Michael Haber
  • Publication number: 20130113272
    Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
  • Publication number: 20130113273
    Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
  • Publication number: 20130113274
    Abstract: The invention relates to track systems 14, 14? that may be used to convert steerable, all-wheel drive construction equipment to steerable, multi-track construction vehicles 10. A preferred embodiment of the track system 14, 14? includes a frame 60, 182 having a reinforcing enclosure 150, 230, a plurality of track engaging rollers 82-86, 202-206, a sprocket 102, 214, and an endless track 76, 198 operatively connected to the frame 60, 182. Tension on the endless track 76, 198 is maintained with two tensioning members 170, 244 operatively connected to the forwardmost roller 82, 202. The track system 14, 14? preferably includes a limiting apparatus 300 that is configured to restrict the rotational movement “r” of the frame 60, 182 relative to a vehicle axle 16 to which it is attached. The limiting apparatus 300 has a first component 40, which is associated with the vehicle axle 16, is configured and arranged to interact with a second component 262, which is associated with the frame of the track system 14, 14?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Vermeer Manufacturing Company
  • Publication number: 20130113275
    Abstract: Technique for providing power to a powered device (PD) over a cable having first and second sets of twisted pairs, such as signal pairs and spare pairs. Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) circuitry is coupled via a first switch to the second set, e.g. to the spare pairs. A switch control circuit turns the first switch off to enable the PSE circuitry to perform a prescribed operation in connection with the PD over only the first set, e.g. over the signal pairs, and turns the first switch on to enable the PSE circuitry to perform the prescribed operation in connection with the PD over the first and second sets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130113276
    Abstract: Various exemplary embodiments relate a system for supplying power. The system may include a power source outputting a source voltage, a regulator connected to the power source, and an extension module connected to the power source. The regulator may output a first voltage when the source voltage is above a minimum threshold, and the extension module may output a second voltage when the source voltage falls below the minimum threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Clemens Gerhardus Johannes DE HAAS
  • Publication number: 20130113277
    Abstract: Disclosed is a battery management system. More specifically, the battery management system includes an alternator that supplies a battery and electronic equipment of a vehicle with electricity that is generated by a driving torque of the vehicle, a battery that supplies the electronic equipment with power that is charged by the alternator, a battery observer that observes a condition of the battery, a vehicle information collection portion that collects vehicle condition information according to driving of the vehicle, and a control portion that performs charging recovery of the battery by activating a battery refresh operation when at least one condition of a current accumulation value of the battery, a low SCO entry frequency, and a vehicle starting frequency satisfies a predetermined battery refresh condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Sung Tae Kim, Seungpyo Lee, Jung Ho Yoon
  • Publication number: 20130113278
    Abstract: A transport system or means of transport includes vehicles detachably connected to one another and a data transmission apparatus for wired data transmission between the vehicles and within the vehicles. In each vehicle the data transmission apparatus includes data coupling units for the data transmission between the respective vehicle and vehicles connected to it as well as two separate data connections connecting its two data coupling units. Each data coupling unit has four data ports as well as one or more switch units which can be used to produce different electrical connection states for the data ports. A method for data transmission in such a transport system or means of transport is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Harald Karl, Karl-Heinz Kern
  • Publication number: 20130113279
    Abstract: An electric vehicle propulsion control device having a power storage device includes: a first switch configured to perform opening and closing of a circuit between an overhead wire and a power converting unit; a second switch configured to perform opening and closing of a circuit between the power converting unit and a motor; a switching unit configured to select a terminal on a side of the power converting unit to which the first switch is connected or a terminal on a side of the power converting unit to which the second switch is connected and connect the terminal to the power storage device; and a control unit configured to control the power converting unit, the first switch, the second switch, and the switching unit to switch a connection destination of the power converting unit and cause the power converting unit to operate as an inverter or a DC/DC converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Keita Hatanaka
  • Publication number: 20130113280
    Abstract: An energy storage system which balances cell voltages and a method of balancing cell voltages are disclosed. The system and method use a temperature of balancing resistors to determine a time for the balancing resistors to be selectively connected across battery cells so as to balance the battery cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jong-Woon Yang, Eui-Jeong Hwang
  • Publication number: 20130113281
    Abstract: A photovoltaic array (11) for generating DC power by receiving sunlight is installed in a balcony (1) of the individual unit, the DC per is converted by an inverter (13) into AC power, and the AC power output from the inverter (13) is supplied to the plurality of electrical loads in a distributed manner by a distribution board (38) of the individual unit. On the other hand, a magnitude of DC power generated by the photovoltaic array or a lithium-ion battery and a magnitude of electrical power consumed by the electrical loads are compared by an electrical power comparator. Depending on the comparison result, an electrical power switch may supply the DC power via the inverter to the electrical loads or a low-voltage system, or may supply electrical power from the low-voltage system to the electrical loads or the lithium-ion battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Koji TOGASHI
  • Publication number: 20130113282
    Abstract: Systems and methods for operation of an AC power supply distribution circuit that has a limited supply capacity rely on dynamically measured available load capacity to regulate operation of the AC power supply circuit, and existing and potential loads, to avoid fault or damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130113283
    Abstract: A system configured for charging and distribution control is provided. The system includes a switching regulator, a control circuit and a first converter. The switching regulator is configured to be selectively operable in one of a first operative state and a second operative state based on a control signal. The first operative state and the second operative state are associated with a maximum level of an alternator output power corresponding to at least one alternator operational feature, at least one alternator operational feature being associated with the alternator output voltage and an alternator speed. The control circuit is configured to generate the control signal based at least on the at least one alternator operational feature. The first converter is configured to generate a first converter output voltage based on the regulated DC output voltage. The first converter output voltage is lower than the regulated DC output voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Latif Ameer Babu Shiek
  • Publication number: 20130113284
    Abstract: A load control system for a building having a lighting load, a window, and a heating and cooling system comprises a lighting control device, a daylight control device, and a temperature control device operable to be controlled so as to decrease a total power consumption of the load control system in an energy-savings mode. The energy-savings mode can be manually overridden in response to actuation of the actuator of an input control device, such that the load control system enters a manual mode for manually adjusting the loads controlled by the lighting control device, the daylight control device, and the temperature control device. The load control system is operable to automatically return to the energy-savings mode at a time after the load control system entered the manual mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: LUTRON ELECTRONICS CO., INC.
    Inventor: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130113285
    Abstract: A smart circuit breaker for an AC power supply circuit that has a limited capacity for supplying power to one or more electrical loads. Smart circuit breaker includes a sensing circuit to dynamically determine the available load capacity of the AC power supply circuit. A reporting circuit reports the dynamically available load capacity to a controller, an existing electrical load, and/or a potential electrical load on the AC power supply circuit. The AC power supply circuit, the existing electrical load, and/or the potential electrical load can adjust operations based on the reported availability of load capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130113286
    Abstract: A floating power converter includes direct current to direct current (DC-DC) converter circuitry having at least one converter control terminal for receiving at least one control signal, a high side (H-S) converter input terminal, a low side (L-S) converter input terminal, and a converter output terminal. The floating power converter also has an H-S source selector configured to selectively couple either a first H-S voltage source or a second H-S voltage source to the H-S converter input terminal in response to a selector control signal. Moreover, an L-S source selector is configured to selectively couple either a first L-S voltage source or a second L-S voltage source to the L-S converter input terminal in response to the selector control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: RF MICRO DEVICES, INC.
    Inventor: RF Micro Devices, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130113287
    Abstract: An online method and apparatus for determining state of charge (SoC) and state of health (SoH) of energy storage components in a microgrid environment is disclosed. The apparatus and methods may estimate SoC and SoH of an energy storage device in a real-time fashion. The SoC may be used to preserve/extend the life of the energy storage components, while the SoH may be used for trend analysis and energy storage component prognostics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: HARMOHAN N. SINGH, CRISTIAN ANGHEL
  • Publication number: 20130113288
    Abstract: A backup power control system includes a main power supply unit, a first negative feedback circuit unit, a standby power supply unit, a second negative feedback circuit unit, and a control unit. The main power supply unit is suitable for outputting a main power. The standby power supply unit is suitable for outputting a standby power. The control unit switches the first negative feedback circuit unit and the second negative feedback circuit unit to be turned on or not to be turned on in response to whether a normal power supply signal of the main power is received. When the normal power supply signal is received, the control unit enables the first negative feedback circuit unit to be turned on and enables the second negative feedback circuit unit not to be turned on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: PEGATRON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Pegatron Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130113289
    Abstract: A pre-wired auxiliary power circuit (45, 47) is built into a transport refrigeration system for supplying electrical power to an optional auxiliary system when installed in connection with the transport refrigeration unit. A low cost safety interlock (70) is provided in association with the auxiliary power circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: RongAi Ma, Kenneth Cresswell, David Whyte