Patents Issued in February 18, 2014
-
Patent number: 8651952Abstract: Operation data acquisition means acquires operation data at least including motion data, which is data representing a motion of a predetermined input device, from the input device. Amount-of-change calculation means calculates an amount of change of the input device in a predetermined period of time, based on the motion data. Position orientation calculation means calculates a position and an orientation of a player object in a virtual game space. Degree-of-contact calculation means calculates a degree of contact, which represents a degree of the player object and a field object contacting each other in the virtual game space. Orientation change means changes the orientation of the player object, based on the amount of change and the degree of contact.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takuhiro Dohta, Takayuki Shimamura
-
Patent number: 8651953Abstract: An electronic question and answer game device in accordance with the present invention comprises a housing that has several side walls or surfaces. A display screen is disposed on one of the sides. The display screen is configured to present a question to the user of the electronic device. The electronic game device includes several mechanisms that vary the methods in which a user can play the game.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Janice E. Ritter, Brian M. Yu, Tadd L. Callies, E. Ernst Ginkel, Darin Marshal Barri, Robert John Grzesek, Jorge Castro Sanchez
-
Patent number: 8651954Abstract: A gaming terminal according to the present invention comprises: a first memory capable of storing game history data for a player; a network interface for communicating with a server which stores a plurality of types of game software; a second memory which stores game software downloaded from the server through the network interface; and a controller, the controller storing, in the first memory, the game history data acquired according to an input from outside, downloading game software corresponding to the game history data stored in the first memory from the server through the network interface, when the game software corresponding to the game history data stored in the first memory is different from the game software stored in the second memory, storing the downloaded game software in the second memory, and executing a game based on the game software stored in the second memory.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Aruze Gaming America, Inc.Inventor: Kazuo Okada
-
Patent number: 8651955Abstract: A game device includes a packet processing section that processes a packet that is transferred between the game device and another game device via a network, a game calculation section that performs a game calculation process based on data transferred using a packet, and an image generation section that generates an image based on a result of the game calculation process. The game calculation section performs a game sequence process as the game calculation process in each game sequence interval. A packet that is transferred between the game device and the other game device includes a packet ID that specifies the type of data transferred using the packet, and an interval ID that specifies the game sequence interval that utilizes data transferred using the packet. The packet processing section compares the interval ID included in a received packet with the interval ID of a current game sequence interval.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Namco Bandai Games Inc.Inventors: Tsuyoshi Takahashi, Ken Matsumoto, Kunihiko Mori
-
Patent number: 8651956Abstract: Disclosed are methods, apparatus, and systems, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for a method for providing a game on demand over a data network, in a gaming machine. The gaming machine sends a request message for a game application over the data network. In a network mode, the gaming machine receives outputted results from an executed game application over a streaming channel of the data network for network-based game play. During the network-based game play, the game application is downloaded over a download channel of the data network. In a local mode, the gaming machine executes the downloaded game application independent of the network-based game play. The gaming machine switches instantaneously from the network mode to the local mode for machine-based game play, including maintaining a status of the network-based game play.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: IGTInventors: Binh T. Nguyen, Joseph R. Hedrick, Bryan Wolf
-
Patent number: 8651957Abstract: A method and system for providing an interactive gaming system is disclosed. At least one interactive social gaming community allows a plurality of users to engage in a wagering contest against a single entity. An initial amount of gaming units associated with an initial user investment is allocated to each user. A payout table is dynamically generated and includes at least one threshold amount of gaming units associated with rewards available to the user. A bet request signal received from a user is automatically reconciled with an outcome of at least one type of contest occurring during an active gaming period. A user account is updated by modifying an amount of gaming units in a user account based on a result of the at least one type of contest and determines if user has earned the reward associated with the at least one threshold.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Paddy Power PLCInventors: Justin Edward Goldman, Robert Daniel Shedd, Alan David deLevie, Jonathan Beatty, Simon Keating, Daire Manning, Catherine O'Mahony
-
Patent number: 8651958Abstract: A method for a tournament-type on-line game by batch processing includes generating an independent game turn determining both participants in each match of the game, to every participant; providing match information, which includes the game turn information, victory criterion information determined in association with the game turn information and allowing the participant to win in each match until stage K, and an input circumstance for inputting variable information, to a client of the participant; receiving variable information from the client through the provided match information; and operating all of the received variable information by batch processing to determine winners until stage K, wherein an operation result of the variable information received from both clients of each match is compared with the victory criterion information so that the participant having the victory criterion information identical to the operation result is determined as a winner of each match.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Young-June Kim
-
Patent number: 8651959Abstract: Described are one or more embodiments that include a browser application (“browser”) with multiple parts. A first part of the browser (e.g., a toolbar, a dropdown, a pop-up, a widget, etc.) presents first content associated with one or more wagering games. Concurrently a second part of the browser (e.g., a main content display area) presents second content independently from presentation of the first content in the first part of the browser. In some embodiments, the first content and second content are from separate content providers with a marketing relationship. In some embodiments, in response to concurrent presentation of the first and second content, the browser application detects the marketing relationship between the content providers and presents one or more indicators. The one or more indicators indicate the marketing relationship. For example, the indicators can indicate cross-marketing, available coupons, and/or awards available via the first or second content.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: WMS Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Peter R. Anderson, Brian J. Barclay, Allon G. Englman, Andrew C. Guinn, Daniel P. Louie, Brian D. Manning, Larry J. Pacey, Richard T. Schwartz, Alfred Thomas
-
Patent number: 8651960Abstract: A system, method and computer program enable an interactive game. A game server, in response to a user request, provides a unique identifier associated with an instance of the interactive game. The game server forwards one or more invitations to join the interactive game in accordance with the user request. Thereafter, the game server registers one or more wireless communication devices to be used as data controllers for use by participants that join the game.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventor: Dale Malik
-
Patent number: 8651961Abstract: A method and system tracks, analyzes or sorts behaviors of user or players across a network to draw correlations from, or characterizations of, those user or players and identifies similarly characterized or mutually complementary user or players. For example, the method automatically obtains player data regarding interactions by each of multiple players with a multiplayer electronic game via each player's corresponding data processing device connected via the network. The method can then sort, classify or suggest additional activities, games, groups, or other different activities or actions for the players.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Solocron Entertainment LLCInventor: Marcus S. Muller
-
Patent number: 8651962Abstract: A game machine (2) receives via a server apparatus (3) and displays on a game image (110), a comment transmitted from a terminal apparatus (7) of a user. When a user of the game machine (2) indicates a reply to the comment, the game machine (2) requests the server apparatus (2) to transmit as a reply comment, a comment for reply which is specified in advance by the user, to a user who is a transmitter of the comment to be replied. By following the request, the server apparatus (3) transmits the comment for reply to the terminal apparatus (7) of the user who is a destination of reply.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuyuki Nagatomo, Kenichi Yamamoto, Yoshihiko Aramaki, Takuto Kaji
-
Patent number: 8651963Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to an interface utilized to enhance production of the electronic gaming device. The systems and methods may allow for easier installation of the cabinet and pedestal via utilization of the interface.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Cadillac Jack, Inc.Inventor: Mark Thompson
-
Patent number: 8651964Abstract: A video control system has an accelerometer sensor connected to a microcontroller for imparting motion and orientation information to the microcontroller. An encoder/transmitter is connected to the microcontroller and converts a plurality of parallel signals from the microcontroller into a serial data stream which is wirelessly transmitted to a receiver/decoder which converts the serial data back to the original parallel signals. The receiver/decoder is connected to a keyboard encoder that is connected to the keyboard port of personal computer. The accelerometer sensor, microcontroller and encoder transmitter are adapted to be worn on a video player's person. The system allows for a realistic experience in a video environment in which movement of the video player is replicated and appreciated on a video screen.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Todd A. Brick
-
Patent number: 8651965Abstract: A vibration damping device capable of reducing a change in an order frequency of a reciprocating motion of a pendulum resulting from eccentricity of rotational members therein. The vibration damping device comprises a pendulum damping mechanism having a mass to dampen the torsional vibrations by an oscillating motion thereof resulting from the torsional vibrations. An inertial body is arranged in the prime mover side of the rotary shaft, an elastic damping mechanism is connected with a transmission side of the inertial body in a power transmittable manner, a pendulum damping mechanism is connected with the transmission side of the elastic damping mechanism in a power transmittable manner, and a torque limiter mechanism is connected with the transmission side of the pendulum damping mechanism in a power transmittable manner.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroyuki Amano, Yu Miyahara, Shinichiro Suenaga, Shingo Aijima
-
Patent number: 8651966Abstract: A coupling apparatus for transmitting torque from a drive shaft to an output shaft includes two couplings with a respective primary part and secondary part. The primary and secondary parts are twistable to a certain extent relative to one another against the force of springs. Several carriers for carrying spring plates and support plates are arranged in a distributed manner over the circumference of the coupling. There is a locating pin between two screws for positioning a carrier, the locating pin being axially parallel to the screws. One coupling is in a drive connection with the drive shaft, and the other coupling is in a drive connection with the output shaft. Every carrier which can be inserted into a respective recess in the primary part or secondary part of the respective coupling forms a premounted spring unit together with the spring plates carried by the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Voith Patent GmbHInventor: Walter Mistlbauer
-
Patent number: 8651967Abstract: A torque transmission device connects two rotary shafts having shaft ends opposing each other, such that torque is transmitted through a torque transmission mechanism provided to a shaft end surface of each of the two rotary shafts. A first rotary shaft of the two rotary shafts has a double-supported structure where both end portions of the first rotary shaft are supported by bearings, respectively. A second rotary shaft of the two rotary shafts has a cantilever structure where only one end portion of the second rotary shaft opposite to the torque transmission mechanism is supported by a bearing, and the second rotary shaft is spaced from one bearing of the bearings supporting the first rotary shaft, the one bearing being provided at a side of the torque transmission mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignees: Advics Co., Ltd., Denso CorporationInventors: Kunihito Ando, Daishi Kato, Yuki Nakamura, Takahiro Naganuma, Tomoaki Kawabata
-
Patent number: 8651968Abstract: An amusement apparatus includes an elongate member having an upper extremity and a lower extremity with a pivot point. A self-contained child-supporting assembly is mounted to the elongate member between the upper and lower extremities for rotation and includes a seat to receive a child in a sitting position, handles to be taken up by hand by a child seated on the seat, and footrests to provide foot support for a child seated on the seat. A leveraging arm extends from the upper extremity of the elongate member to an outer end having an upright handle. The leveraging arm has a transverse handle between the upper extremity of the elongate member and the upright handle. The transverse and upright handles are available to be taken up by hand to reciprocally pivot the elongate member at the pivot point to impart rotation to the child-supporting assembly about the elongate member.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Richard T. Morgan Family TrustInventor: Richard T. Morgan
-
Patent number: 8651969Abstract: Mask display systems, sales and display systems, and related methods are shown and described. In one example, a mask display system comprises a head portion, a pair of hands attached to the head portion, and a suspension system, serving as a novelty simulation of a peeping tom.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: James Morgan Dowtin, III
-
Patent number: 8651970Abstract: A playground slide has a pair of side rails, including a left side rail and a right side rail, and the pair of side rails is parallel to each other. A slide sheet has a slide sheet top surface, and the slide sheet top surface has a slide sheet left edge. The slide sheet top surface has a slide sheet right edge, and the slight sheet left edge is mounted to a bottom surface of the left side rail. The slide sheet right edge is mounted to a bottom surface of the right side rail. A pair of support rails, namely a left support rail and a right support rail, supports the slight sheet. The pair of support rails is parallel to each other, and the pair of support rails is mounted to a bottom surface of the slide sheet between the pair of side rails.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Samuel Chen
-
Patent number: 8651971Abstract: A swing tag game has: a first swing support supporting a first seat for a first player; a middle module comprising a middle module emitter and a middle module receiver; first player inputs including a first player middle module first control corresponding to an attack; a second swing support supporting a second seat for a second player; second player inputs including a second player middle module first control corresponding to an attack; an attack defense resolution; and an indication output such as lights, sound or vibration. The middle module can be formed as a glove gun. The middle module can be formed as a sleeve and the middle module can be for indicating a successful hit.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Samuel Chen
-
Patent number: 8651972Abstract: A lightweight, portable artificial sport log having physical properties that mimic a selected natural log is disclosed that has a hollow cylindrical shell of a suitable polymeric material defining a volume having the desired dimensions of length and diameter of a selected natural log of interest, an internal baffle support shape of a rigid polymeric foam material is fixed to said internal surface of said cylindrical shell, end closure members at ends of said hollow cylindrical shell provided with sealable fill/discharge openings for adding and draining water from the artificial log. The internal baffle volume and shape are determined such that the buoyancy of the artificial log generally equals the buoyancy of the natural log of interest and the mass moment of inertia resembles that of the natural log of interest when the artificial log is filled with water.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventors: Judith L. Hoeschler, Jay F. Hoeschler, Abigael A. Hoeschler
-
Patent number: 8651973Abstract: Golf club, golf club shaft and golf club head structures are presented. The golf club may include a shaft having a core and an airfoil shaped skin substantially surrounding the core and in contact with the core. The golf club may further include a golf club head having a plurality of apertures formed in a front face of the golf club head and extending through an interior of the golf club head to a rear portion of the golf club head. The apertures may narrow or widen as they extend from the front face to the rear portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Nike, Inc.Inventor: Alex W. Okot
-
Patent number: 8651974Abstract: A “Aerodynamic Golf Club Assembly” is designed for a minimal amount of air resistance to the face of the club head when it's in a forward swing mode. This allows the golfer to swing the club head at a higher speed, which will cause the ball to travel a longer distance. This is done by means of one or more fore and aft straight round holes that protrude from the face of the head through the hill of the head. The hill of the head has a concave surface, so a stronger vacuum is created during a forward swing mode of the head.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Charles Placido Guerriero
-
Patent number: 8651975Abstract: A golf club head with sound tuning composite members forming at least a portion of the surface of the golf club head is disclosed herein. The composite members being a composite layer made out of a sandwiched core layer that is interposed inside the midsection of the composite member to provide vibration damping and sound tuning characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Cobra Golf IncorporatedInventor: Peter L. Soracco
-
Patent number: 8651976Abstract: A golf ball comprising a core comprising an inner core center and an outer core layer disposed over the inner core center. The inner core center has a deflection of greater than 0.210 inch under a load of 100 kilograms, and the entire the core has a deflection ranging from 0.130 inch to 0.105 inch under a load of 100 kilograms. A mantle layer is disposed over the core and a cover is disposed over the mantle.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventors: Steven S. Ogg, David M. Bartels
-
Patent number: 8651977Abstract: Golf ball 2 has spherical main body 4, mark layer 6 and paint layer 8. The main body 4 has spherical core 10, and cover 12 provided to cover this core 10. The cover 12 does not include titanium oxide. The cover 12 includes a fluorescent colorant. The main body 4 has a chroma saturation of equal to or greater than 25. The paint layer 8 is constituted with a resin composition. This resin composition includes composite particles. The composite particle has a nucleus, and a coat layer provided to coat this nucleus. The nucleus is constituted with mica, while the coat layer is constituted with titanium oxide. The amount of the composite particles is 2 parts by weight or greater and 30 parts by weight or less per 100 parts by weight of the base resin of the paint layer 8.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SRI Sports LimitedInventors: Kazuhiko Isogawa, Tsutomu Hirau
-
Patent number: 8651978Abstract: The golf ball 2 has a northern hemisphere N and a southern hemisphere S. The northern hemisphere N is adjacent to the southern hemisphere S across an equatorial line Eq. Each of the northern hemisphere N and the southern hemisphere S has a pole vicinity region 14 and an equator vicinity region 16. Each of the pole vicinity region 14 and the equator vicinity region 16 has a large number of dimples. The dimple pattern of the pole vicinity region 14 includes three units that are rotationally symmetrical to each other about a pole Po. The dimple pattern of the equator vicinity region 16 includes six units that are rotationally symmetrical to each other about the pole Po. The sum (Ps+Pp) of a peak value Ps and a peak value Pp of the golf ball 2 is equal to or greater than 600 mm.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SRI Sports LimitedInventors: Takahiro Sajima, Hirotaka Nakamura, Hyoungchol Kim
-
Patent number: 8651979Abstract: A sports training device includes a base and at least one net frame assembly. The net frame assembly includes a frame mounted detachably to the base, and a net attached to and surrounded by the frame. The net includes a non-elastic mesh area, and an elastic mesh area connecting the non-elastic mesh area to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: King Chou Marine Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chia-Jen Chen
-
Patent number: 8651980Abstract: A training device for ball sports includes a frame member which supports both an elastic surface for rebounding a ball, along with an inelastic surface which absorbs the kinetic energy of the ball and allows it to drop to the ground, which is designed as a combination apparatus that includes both a ball rebounding surface and a ball stopping surface, in order to provide a variety of training activities and which may be transported easily by a coach or an individual using it for practice.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Darvin Jackson
-
Patent number: 8651981Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a support structure having an arcuate support element which defines the boundary of the pitching screen and about which a ball can be pitched toward a pitching target.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Morrow Sports, LLCInventor: William David Morrow
-
Patent number: 8651982Abstract: A baseball batting skill improvement system for providing a user-batter with instant feedback on the correctness of muscle alignment and form during a batter swing motion in response to a pitched baseball. Baseball batting skill improvement system comprises a ball catcher bat with a ball catcher assembly. The ball catcher assembly comprises a round mounting plate with an elongated U-hoop rigidly attached and having a flexible cord-net attached to net rings spaced on and about the U-hoop. The flexible cord net is a catch bag that will allow a pitched baseball to enter if the form of the user-batter is correct.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Scott Carnahan
-
Patent number: 8651983Abstract: A swing ball game has a top support frame member. A swing hangs from the top support frame member. The swing has a swing seat configured to swing in a front and rear direction. At least one vertical support frame member is connected to the top support frame member and supports the top support frame member. A rocker support frame member has a rocker bottom profile. The vertical support frame member is connected to the rocker support frame member. The rocker support frame member is oriented sideways so that the top support frame member can rock in a left and right direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Samuel Chen
-
Patent number: 8651984Abstract: A first lacrosse head constructed from a first material having first properties or a second lacrosse head constructed from a second material having second properties is selectively used in lacrosse activities, based on environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity and/or solar activity, to provide generally consistent head performance as perceived by a lacrosse player across a range of environmental conditions. The first and second heads can be identical in structure, but constructed from different materials. For example, the first head can include a polyamide, optionally, Nylon 6,6 polyamide, and the second head can include a high performance polyamide resin, optionally a polypthalamide. An environmental indicator that provides visual and/or audible output with regard to environmental conditions can be included with at least one of the first head, the second head and a shaft to which the heads can be joined. Related methods of use are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.Inventors: Dale W. Kohler, Joshua G. Schmidt
-
Patent number: 8651985Abstract: A racket frame 2 includes a head 4, a shaft 8, and a pair of throats 6 extending from the head 4 to the shaft 8. A flexural rigidity G15 of the throats 6 in a low load range (from 5 kgf to 15 kgf) is equal to or greater than 600 kgf/mm but equal to or less than 900 kgf/mm. A flexural rigidity G55 of the throats 6 in a high load range (from 45 kgf to 55 kgf) is equal to or greater than 900 kgf/mm but equal to or less than 1200 kgf/mm. A rigidity ratio (G15/G55) of the flexural rigidity G15 and the flexural rigidity G55 is equal to or greater than 0.70 but equal to or less than 0.85.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Dunlop Sports Co. Ltd.Inventor: Yosuke Yamamoto
-
Patent number: 8651986Abstract: A drive clutch for a continuously variable transmission that includes an input shaft designed to engage with an engine. A sheave assembly is mounted about the input shaft. A bearing assembly separates the sheave assembly from the input shaft such that the input shaft can rotate independently from the sheave assembly. At least one sheave clutch assembly is positioned about the input shaft. The sheave clutch assembly is configured to provide engagement between the sheave assembly and the input shaft when the rotation of the input shaft increases above a certain threshold value. An axial control mechanism is mounted on the input shaft adjacent to the second sheave. The axial control mechanism controls the movement of the second sheave toward and away from the first sheave as a function of the speed of the input shaft. A continuously variable transmission including the drive clutch and a driven clutch is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: The Hilliard CorporationInventors: David C. Ochab, Matthew J. Cowen, Scott C. Schneider, Steven M. Averill, Kenneth W. Moyer, II, William J. Coon
-
Patent number: 8651987Abstract: A system and a method for orientation of a ring by rotation, including a cable engaging the ring which rotates about a ring axis, a motor assembly providing a first rotation reduction, and a stretcher for stretching the cable. The system has at least one proximal pulley and at least one distal pulley rotating about a pulley axis each pulley having grooves configured for receiving the cable therein. The ring is rotated by the motor assembly and the pulley assembly is configured to provide a second reduction of rotation to the ring relative to motor rotation, whereby the ring is driven via at least a double reduction of rotation relative to rotation of the motor, and the cable, the plurality of pulleys, and the ring provide a one-way mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Dotan Ltd.Inventor: David Chiel
-
Patent number: 8651988Abstract: A tensioning device for a traction element, such as a belt, band or chain, is provided having a tensioning arm (1) arranged on a machine part on which an idler pulley or deflection pulley for the traction element is rotatably mounted via a roller bearing (2), and includes a protective cap (15) which is in a frictionally locking or positively locking manner on the idler pulley and covers the bearing region of the idler pulley. The idler pulley is a sheet-metal sheave (16) and includes, for securing the protective cap (15), a snap-in groove (17) which is formed in an end region of the sheet-metal sheave (16) which has an outwardly conical shape, with the end region having a thickness (A) which is less than a thickness (E) of the sheet metal of the sheet-metal sheave (16).Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KGInventors: Benoit Kapfer, Jacky Herrmann, Constant Einsetler
-
Patent number: 8651989Abstract: Multi-mode operation is provided for an electrically variable transmission for a motor vehicle. The multi-mode electrically variable transmission provides for multiple gear ratios and power flow configurations including fixed gear operation. An improved input-split planetary gear set configuration is provided for the multi-mode electrically variable transmission. The multi-mode electrically variable transmission may be operated in its desired efficiency and/or performance range more frequently. Further, the transmission reduces clutch torques and provides improved functionality in range-extended electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles. The multi-mode electrically variable transmission is provided with a fixed gear operating capability for improved highway cruising and incorporates a reverse gear for reverse operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventors: Dumitru Puiu, Goro Tamai, Scott A Miller
-
Patent number: 8651990Abstract: A hydraulic control system for actuating at least one torque transmitting device in a transmission includes a sump, a pump in communication with the sump, and an accumulator. A first control device and a second control device control the communication of hydraulic fluid between the pump, the accumulator, and the torque transmitting device.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Steven P. Moorman, Peter Donald Bock
-
Patent number: 8651991Abstract: A drive module that includes a housing, first and second axle shafts, a differential assembly, a propulsion motor, a brake element fixed to the housing, a torque-vectoring transmission and a mode gear. The differential assembly is mounted in the housing for rotation about a rotational axis and has a differential case and a pair of output members. A first one of the output members is coupled to the first axle shaft for common rotation. The torque-vectoring transmission cooperates with the differential assembly to transmit rotary power to the second axle shaft. The mode gear is movable between a first position and a second position. Positioning of the mode gear in the first position permits transmission of rotary power between the propulsion motor and the differential assembly. Positioning of the mode gear in the second position couples the differential assembly to the housing to inhibit rotation of the first axle shaft.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: e-AAM Driveline Systems ABInventors: Erik J. Sten, Mikael P. Larsson
-
Patent number: 8651992Abstract: Through holes are formed in a revolving gear which revolves while being engaged with a ring gear, and penetration pins are inserted in the through holes. An elastic member having a circular ring shape, which is formed so that an inner diameter thereof can move with respect to an outer diameter thereof, is mounted to either an inner circumferential surface of the through hole or an outer circumferential surface of the penetration pin. Thus, the through hole and the penetration pin do not interfere with each other, and thus, it is possible to set a small clearance between the through hole and the penetration pin to such a degree, while preventing a speed reducer from being in a locked state due to interference. As a result, it is possible to suppress a backlash between the through hole and the penetration pin.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Yuya Kataoka
-
Patent number: 8651993Abstract: A bicycle drive unit is provided that includes a motor, a crank axle, a power transmission axle and an output part. The motor includes a crank axle receiving hole. The crank axle is rotatably disposed in the crank axle receiving hole of the motor. The power transmission axle is separate from the crank axle and arranged to transmit rotation of the crank axle. The output part is operatively coupled to the motor and the power transmission axle to combine a rotational output of the motor and a rotational output of the transmission mechanism together.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Etsuyoshi Watarai
-
Patent number: 8651994Abstract: A drive axle assembly that may include an input shaft, an intermediate shaft, an output shaft, and an actuator unit. The actuator unit may move the intermediate shaft between a first position in which the intermediate shaft transmits torque to the output shaft and a second position in which the intermediate shaft does not transmit torque to the output shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Marco Bassi, Arnaldo Freitas Camarão, Egidio Miguel Gomes Correia, Juscelino dos Reis, José Renan da Silva, Todd R. Ekonen
-
Patent number: 8651995Abstract: A powertrain of an automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set having first, second, and third operating members, a second planetary gear set having fourth, fifth, and sixth operating members, and third planetary gear set having seventh, eighth, and ninth operating members, the fourth and seventh operating members being fixedly interconnected, the fifth and ninth operating members being fixedly interconnected, the third and eighth operating members being selectively interconnected, the second and seventh operating members being selectively interconnected, the second and sixth operating members being selectively interconnected, wherein a transmission case is fixedly connected to the first operating member and selectively connected to the seventh and eighth operating members, an input shaft is fixedly connected to the third operating member and selectively connected to the seventh operating member, and an output shaft is fixedly connected to the ninth operating member.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Wookjin Jang, Kun Soo Jung
-
Patent number: 8651996Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include four clutches and three brakes actuatable in combinations of two to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and one reverse gear ratio.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Edward W. Mellet, James M. Hart
-
Patent number: 8651997Abstract: In a planetary gear device, a first side plate as carrier is formed to a disc plate shape and secures thereto pins to protrude the pins from one end surface in an axial direction. The outside diameter of the first side plate is formed to be a small diameter on one side in the axial direction and a large diameter on the other side in the axial direction. The first side plate is provided with press-fitting hole portions with the pins press-fitted thereinto and small-diameter side concavities that are formed on the press-fitting hole portions on one side in the axial direction, that open to one end surface in the axial direction of the first side plate and that have internal surfaces being out of contact with the pins at at least parts thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: JTEKT CorporationInventors: Yoshinobu Katoh, Hiromichi Ota
-
Patent number: 8651998Abstract: A method is for controlling a hybrid drive of a vehicle, which includes at least one internal combustion engine and at least one electric machine, having a first clutch situated between the electric machine and the drive train of the vehicle and a second clutch situated between the electric machine and the internal combustion engine. In the method, a predefinable clutch torque is applied to the second clutch for a start of the internal combustion engine by the operating electric machine, the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine is monitored, and the clutch torque is incremented to a higher value if the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine is less than a predefinable threshold value within a predefinable time interval.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Rene Schenk, Oliver Kaefer, Thorsten Juenemann
-
Patent number: 8651999Abstract: A drive device has an internal combustion engine, a first electrical machine, and a second electrical machine. The first electrical machine is at least indirectly connectable to the internal combustion engine. In addition, the drive device has an output which is at least indirectly connected to an output shaft. According to the invention, a switching device is provided, using which, in a first state, the internal combustion or the first electrical machine is connectable to the output shaft or, in a second state, the second electrical machine is connectable to the output shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Voith Patent GmbHInventor: Bernhard Wust
-
Patent number: 8652000Abstract: A clutch type driving mechanism used in a hybrid powered vehicle is disclosed to include a motor, a speed reducing mechanism, a hollow shaft, an output shaft and first and second one-way clutches. The motor provides a rotational kinetic energy through the hollow axle to the speed reducing mechanism. The speed reducing mechanism and the output shaft transfer a unidirectional rotary motion to the hollow shaft through the first one-way clutch and the second one-way clutch respectively. Thus, when the output shaft works as a drive shaft, it does not transfer the rotary motion to the speed reducing mechanism, avoiding power loss and allowing transfer of the rotational kinetic energy rapidly and efficiently without bearing much load.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Lorom Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ching-Feng Wang
-
Patent number: 8652001Abstract: In a vehicle driving apparatus including a rotating electrical machine having a rotor and a case housing a power transmission device, a second projecting portion formed on a front cover member of the power transmission device is supported rotatably relative to a first projecting portion formed on a support wall of the case via a support bearing, a positioning fitting portion is provided to position a rotor support member for supporting the rotor relative to the front cover member in the radial direction, a torque transmitting coupling portion is provided on a radial direction outer side of the positioning fitting portion to couple the rotor support member and the front cover member so as to be capable of transmitting torque, and the positioning fitting portion and the torque transmitting coupling portion are respectively disposed to overlap a rotary support portion in an axial direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignees: Aisin Aw Co., Ltd., Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Mikio Iwase, Tomohide Suzuki, Tatsuya Okishima, Toshihiko Kamiya