Patents Issued in August 7, 2014
  • Publication number: 20140217724
    Abstract: Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Kirk P. Guidry, Dennis P. Nguyen, Joseph R. Wilhelmi, Terry L. Shinn
  • Publication number: 20140217725
    Abstract: A metal-to-metal sealing system connecting first and second tubular members includes a first seal configuration on the first tubular member and a second seal configuration on the second tubular member. The first seal configuration includes a first annular groove and a first annular tooth, and the second seal configuration includes a second annular groove and a second annular tooth. The second annular tooth is positioned within the first annular groove with the second annular tooth face engaging the first annular shoulder face to define a first shoulder. The first annular tooth is positioned within the second annular groove with the first annular tooth face engaging the second annular shoulder face to define a second shoulder. Locations of primary sealing contact of surfaces of the members are spaced axially away from the first and second shoulders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Alejandro Juarez
  • Publication number: 20140217726
    Abstract: A coupler assembly (10) and method of manufacture (10) for use with pipe comprising a unitary annular body (20) forming first and second cylindrical openings for surrounding a pipe or piping sections to facilitate forming a fluid-tight seal therein. The unitary annular body (20) comprises a medial portion (64) formed from a first material having a first durometer and first and second lateral portions (56, 58) integrally connected to opposite ends of the medial portion (64). The first and second lateral portions (56, 58) are made from a second material having a second durometer relatively higher than the first durometer of the first material. The coupler assembly (10) further comprises at least one clamping assembly (26) surrounding the unitary annular body member (20) adapted for compressing the coupler assembly (10) into a fluid-tight seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: SpringSeal, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Knapp
  • Publication number: 20140217727
    Abstract: A connector member according to this disclosure includes: a hollow pipe-shaped portion molded by injection molding of a synthetic resin; two ring-shaped seal grooves disposed at an outer peripheral surface of the pipe-shaped portion; and a ring-shaped gate mark formed at a region close to a pipe end with respect to the seal groove, the ring-shaped gate mark being formed at an inner peripheral surface side of the pipe-shaped portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: TIGERS POLYMER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nobukatsu Miyajima, Kiyofumi Hiroi
  • Publication number: 20140217728
    Abstract: Profile clamp and method of connecting two flanged pipes or lines. The profile clamp includes a clamping band having two flanks; and a pre-positioner having at least one attachment section and being connected to the clamping band. The at least one attachment section runs axially beyond one of the flanks and radially inside the two flanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: NORMA GERMANY GMBH
    Inventors: Fabio GHIRARDI, Erkan KAYACIK, Mathias KRAUSS
  • Publication number: 20140217729
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally relate to using remote sensing equipment such as a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device to detect wind characteristics for use by wind turbines of a wind park. A wind park controller may received raw wind data from the remote sensing device and determine one or more turbines that can use the raw wind data. The raw wind data may be converted to customized data for each of the one or more wind turbines. Upon being provided the customized wind data, the one or more wind turbines may adjust one or more operational characteristics to improve power production or avoid damage to turbine components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: VESTAS WINS SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventors: Ali Zaib, Robert Bowyer
  • Publication number: 20140217730
    Abstract: A power dissipating arrangement for dissipating power from a generator in a wind turbine is provided. The generator comprises a plurality of output terminals corresponding to a multi-phase output. The power dissipating arrangement comprises a plurality of dissipating units, a plurality of semiconductor switches, a trigger circuit for switching the semiconductor switches and a control unit for controlling the operation of the trigger circuit, thereby controlling the switching of the semiconductor switches. Each dissipating unit includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal of each dissipating unit is coupled to each output terminal of the generator. Each semiconductor switch includes a first terminal anode, a second terminal and a gate terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventors: Ove Styhm, Anshuman Tripathi, Amit Kumar Gupta
  • Publication number: 20140217731
    Abstract: A rotor having a plurality of wind turbine blades, a generator to be driven by rotation of the rotor, a pitch angle controller for controlling a pitch angle of the wind turbine blades according to a speed of a generator, and a comparing and selecting section are provided. When the voltage of the utility grid is a predetermined value or less, the pitch angle controller controls the pitch angle so that the wind turbine blades do not move to a fine side. Further, the comparing and selecting section compares a temporary pitch angle command value determined based on the speed of the generator with a previous value of a pitch angle command value, and when the temporary pitch angle command value is a command for controlling the wind turbine blades closer to the fine side than the previous value, outputs the previous value as a current pitch angle command value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Shinji Arinaga, Akira Yasugi, Takatoshi Matsushita
  • Publication number: 20140217732
    Abstract: Turbine assemblies including small turbines coupled to generators are sequentially located in a fast-flowing treatment channel of a water reclamation facility. Each turbine assembly may include a vertical turbine shaft mounted on a brace suspended above water level, with the turbine blades submerged in the flow. The distal end of the vertical turbine shaft may be free (unattached) to the bottom or to any other part of the channel, and may be supported by two or more bearings mounted to the brace. The brace may be generally horizontal and may span the channel and be anchored to opposing walls thereof. An encased generator may be located in an air space between the water level and a removable cover. Power may be collected from the generators via insulated wiring incorporated into a main power cable for distribution to an energy consumption source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Seymour R. Levin
  • Publication number: 20140217733
    Abstract: This is a system of kinetic power generating stations including a plurality of opposing units needed to generate electrical power from the constant motion of waves. Utilizing mixed gas inside the flexible membrane component of the piston to maximize the effects of the changing weight of the passing waves is being employed to assure continuity and uninterrupted movement of the piston assemblies. These “lollipop” pistons are required for electricity generation from waves. The entire system is designed with limited maintenance requirements and allowing for ease of accessibility, either while submerged or while being surfaced for review and repair. Connected as a field of generators offshore from a shore side inter-connect these units will be virtually out-of-site, out-of-mind, preserving the visual environment of a pristine beachside location. The units can be programmed to provide an underwater light show while serving as a beacon to passing vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Stephan Vincent Kroecker
  • Publication number: 20140217734
    Abstract: A wave-making and power-generating system uses a motor reducer to move a wave-making drum up and down in a water reservoir via a rocker arm, causing a float to rotate a power generator for generating electricity by a transmission mechanism via an inertial wheel set. A small amount of electricity can move the wave-making drum to drive the power generator to generate electricity. Multiple floats can be used with a respective transmission mechanism and a respective inertial wheel set to drive one power generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Sheng-Po Peng
  • Publication number: 20140217735
    Abstract: An ocean wave generator device, comprising: a first buoy, a first flared opening, a second flared opening, and a generator component, wherein said first flared opening and second flared opening are respectively disposed on two sides of said generator component and are, along with said generator component, fixed to said first buoy; ocean wave water passes via one flared opening to said generator component, and then flows via said generator component to the other flared opening. The present invention also provides an ocean wave generator system comprising the ocean wave generator device and a position fixing device. The ocean wave generator system fully utilizes the lateral kinetic and potential energy as well as the undulating vertical kinetic and potential energy of ocean waves. By using the diffraction principles of waves, the present invention allows for the large-scale harnessing of the ocean waves that rush inward along the coastline, and allows for greatly reduced implementation costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: He Chen
  • Publication number: 20140217736
    Abstract: A wave-driven power generation system that uses a motor reducer to turn a rocker bar in moving wave-making barrels alternatively up and down, causing creation of water waves in water reservoirs so that float boards in the water reservoirs are moved by created water waves to rotate a transmission gearbox that is coupled to a power generating unit through an inertia wheel set, and thus, the power generating unit is driven to generate electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Sheng-Po Peng
  • Publication number: 20140217737
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave-power system for generating electricity, in which a pendular buoy captures the wave energy and transfers the movement unidirectionally to a flywheel inside a pressurised box. The shaft of the flywheel transmits the energy to a hydraulic pump and the hydraulic flow travels through flexible tubes into a Pelton turbine. The shaft of the turbine moves a variable-weight flywheel which transmits its movement to a transmission shaft to which multiple reduction gearboxes are connected in series. A high-pressure air compressor is connected for each gearbox, the compressors being placed in parallel and joined to a steel matrix that is in turn connected to a large-volume hyperbaric tank for storing pneumatic energy. A throttling control the speed and power thereof, and the mechanical force of the pneumatic motor is transferred to the electric generators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Eduardo Javier Egaña Castillo
  • Publication number: 20140217738
    Abstract: A hydroelectric machine and system is disclosed comprising an electric generator and water turbine configured for direct immersion into a naturally flowing body of water such as the ocean, stream, or a tidal basin. In one embodiment, the water turbine includes a rotor having plurality of pivotably moveable blades which sequentially open and close to capture fluid or kinetic energy when exposed to the water current from any direction. In one embodiment, the blades are arranged in overlapping relationship to maximize the number of blades and active blade surface area for capturing fluid energy and reducing flow turbulence around the water turbine. Various embodiments include arcuately curved blades and reverse curved trailing edges for early capture of fluid and initiation of the blade extension outwards from the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Harold Lipman
  • Publication number: 20140217739
    Abstract: There is disclosed a device and method for the generation of zero emission electricity that can be used to provide load balancing and emergency support to a electricity distribution network or back up electricity to a critical consumer such as a hospital or data centre. The system uses a cryogenic fluid and a source of low grade waste heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: HIGHVIEW ENTERPRISES LIMITED
    Inventors: Robert Morgan, Stephen Gareth Brett
  • Publication number: 20140217740
    Abstract: A variable wing venturi generator and a housing for the same are presented. The invention allows for improved efficiency in wind generation. The device accelerates wind speed between a pair of adjustable venturi wings and is especially suited for low wind conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ned McMahon
  • Publication number: 20140217741
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wind turbine having a wind turbine tower and a nacelle provided on top of the tower to which a rotor hub with one or more wind turbine blades is rotatably mounted. A cable twisting system is arranged inside the tower and suspended from the bottom of the nacelle. The cable twisting system comprises cable spacing plates coupled to a suspension element. Guiding means guide the electrical cables from the nacelle to the bottom of the tower. The suspension element is a torsion element having a first end capable of twisting relative to a second end when torque is applied to the first end therefore allowing individual cable spacing plates to be rotated in a more uniform manner when the nacelle is yawing. This also allows upwards movement of the cable spacing plates caused by the applied torque to start at the uppermost cable spacing plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: ENVISION ENERGY (DENMARK) APS
    Inventor: Mogens CHRISTENSEN
  • Publication number: 20140217742
    Abstract: Systems for increasing the power productivity of two bladed teetering hinge, yaw controlled wind turbines by varying rotor shaft restraining torque and yaw angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: CONDOR WIND ENERGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Silvestro Caruso, Martin Jakubowski, Luciano Caioli
  • Publication number: 20140217743
    Abstract: A power transmission device includes: a high speed magnet rotor which includes a magnet array which is magnetized in a radial direction; a low speed magnet rotor which includes a magnet array which is magnetized in a circumferential direction; and an inductor rotor which allows magnetic fluxes from the magnet array of the high speed magnet rotor to pass, and the high speed magnet rotor, the low speed magnet rotor and the inductor rotor are concentrically arranged and the magnet array of the low speed magnet rotor is formed such that homopolar surfaces of neighboring magnets face each other in the circumferential direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: SANYO DENKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Satoshi Sugita, Yuqi Tang, Yasushi Misawa, Shigenori Miyairi
  • Publication number: 20140217744
    Abstract: A wind turbine axial flux generator for converting wind into electricity comprises: a generator rotor which is rotatable about an axis; and a stator; wherein one of said generator rotor and said stator is provided with magnets and the other is provided with electrical windings in which electricity is induced by relative movement between the generator rotor and the stator; and wherein said generator further comprises: an up-wind air gap on the up-wind side of said electrical windings, between said electrical windings and at least some of said magnets on the up-wind side of said electrical windings; a down-wind air gap on the down-wind side of said electrical windings, between said electrical windings and at least some of said magnets on the down-wind side of said electrical windings; and at least one wind guide for directing said wind so that said wind flows through both said up-wind air gap and said down-wind air gap in order to cool said electrical windings from both said up-wind and down-wind sides of said
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: SWAY TURBINE AS
    Inventor: Eystein Borgen
  • Publication number: 20140217745
    Abstract: Control system for multivariable regulation of a fossil fuel power station comprising: —a boiler (103) and auxiliaries assembly (102), with a fuel supply (GC), which is the heat source of a circuit for fluid in steam phase over part of said circuit, said steam supplying —a turbine (114) at a pressure (P) and a temperature (T), which is connected to an alternator producing electrical power (W), the supply of steam being determined by the opening (SR) of regulating valves upstream of said turbine (114), the system comprising: —a loop for regulating the steam pressure (P), —a loop for regulating the electrical power (W), with at least one loop based on a power station internal model command, one considering a pure delay ? in a parameter of the internal model, one variable in each loop acting as a disturbing influence in the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Eve Dufosse
  • Publication number: 20140217746
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for regulating the injection of fuel into a combustion engine of an electric generator set including an alternator driven by the electric motor, the electric generator set including at least one sensor sensing the speed of the combustion engine and using a control loop having at least at input a signal coming from the sensor, the method involving the following steps: detecting an increase in load on the output side of the alternator from at least one electrical quantity on the output side of the alternator and, when an increase in load is detected, substituting at least one predefined value for at least one value delivered by the speed sensor at input to the control loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: MOTEURS LEROY-SOMER
    Inventors: Samuel Moser, Jean-Marie Andrejak, Patrice Betge
  • Publication number: 20140217747
    Abstract: An anti-icing system, for reducing the icing of a vehicle on tracks, comprises a spray nozzle arrangement (16) for spraying an anti-icing liquid onto the vehicle (12); means for determining the location, relative to the spray nozzle arrangement (16), of a portion to be sprayed of said vehicle (12); and a controller configured to, based on the location of the vehicle portion to be sprayed, initiate an increase or a decrease of a primary flow of anti-icing liquid through at least a portion of said spray nozzle arrangement (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: NORDIC GROUND SUPPORT EQUIPMENT IP AB
    Inventor: Anders Larsson
  • Publication number: 20140217748
    Abstract: The subject matter of the present invention is an actuator unit for motor vehicle applications, in particular motor vehicle door locks (1). This actuator unit has in its basic design a housing (8a, 8b), in addition a drive (2) which is arranged in the housing (8a, 8b), an actuator element (3, 4) which can be acted on by the drive (2), and at least one rubber bearing (10) for the drive (2). According to the invention, the housing (8a, 8b) is equipped with mounting projections (15) which are arranged distributed on the circumference of the rubber bearing (10), in the region of a rubber bearing mount (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: KIEKERT AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Frank Blumenthal, Winfried Schlabs, Claus Töpfer
  • Publication number: 20140217749
    Abstract: A magnetic gate latch comprises magnetic materials and a latching mechanism attracted into a keeper when the gate latch is closed by a first magnetic force and retained in a unlatched position by a second magnetic force. For example, the latching mechanism comprises a pin without a spring or other biasing mechanism biasing the spring in a direction opposite of a magnet in the keeper assembly. In one example, the pin comprises a magnet on an end of the pin opposite from the keeper assembly, which is attracted toward a ferromagnetic material when the pin is retracted into the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: WELDON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Joel Chartier, Christopher Paradies
  • Publication number: 20140217750
    Abstract: A latch combination includes an automatic latch device having a latch bolt engaged in a housing and having a free end extendible out of a door panel, an actuating member pivotally engaged with the housing and engaged with the latch bolt, a deadbolt engaged in a casing and engaged with the actuating member and having a tongue extendible out of the casing, and a spring biasing member biasing the free end of the latch bolt into the door panel and pivoting the actuating member to move the tongue of the deadbolt out of the housing, a manual latch device includes a spring biasing member biasing the free end of the latch bolt out of the door panel to normally latch the door panel to a door frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Thase Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching Tien LIN
  • Publication number: 20140217751
    Abstract: A latch is provided including a fork bolt configured to rotate between an unlatched position and a latched position. A detent is configured to cooperate with the fork bolt. At least one of the fork bolt and the detent includes a resilient absorption mechanism. The resilient absorption mechanism is configured to deform upon impact and decelerate the rotation of either the fork bolt of the detent respectively. The latch also includes a housing and a stop tab protruding from the housing. The stop tab is configured to engage a complementary portion of the fork bolt with in a latched position to limit further rotation thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Francisco Javier Lujan, Fernando Chacon Ramos, Donald Michael Perkins, Kurt E. Nurmi
  • Publication number: 20140217752
    Abstract: A latch is provided including a fork bolt configured to rotate between an unlatch position and a latched position. A detent is configured to cooperate with the forkbolt. A bumper includes an upper contact portion and an elongated lower portion. The bumper is configured to receive a striker when the fork bolt is in the latched position. A guide member includes a generally curved flexible portion. The flexible portion is configured to deflect about a first end to guide the striker towards the upper contact portion of the bumper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Francisco Javier Lujan, Fernando Chacon Ramos, Donald Michael Perkins, Kurt E. Nurmi
  • Publication number: 20140217753
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lock for a flap or a door, with a lock housing, a locking mechanism consisting of a rotary latch (4) and at least one pawl (6), and at least one spring (23) which is capable of pivoting a pivotable component of the lock from a starting position in the direction of an end position by means of spring force, characterized in that the spring (23) is held by a bearing stud (22) which is connected integrally to the lock housing (25) of the lock, and wherein the bearing stud has a stop (24) for the spring, and/or wherein the bearing stud (22) is connected integrally to the stop (24), wherein the stop (24) has the effect that the pivotable component is not spring-loaded in the end position thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Thorsten Bendel, Serkan Gülkan, Karsten Barth, Dusan Petrus
  • Publication number: 20140217754
    Abstract: A device for restricting movement of a door includes a door member, a floor member, and a connecting member. The door member is fixedly mounted to a door and includes a first opening having a first predetermined shape. The floor member is fixedly mounted to a floor and includes a second opening having a second predetermined shape. The connecting member includes a first leg and a second leg. The first leg extends in a first direction and has a first end removeably engaging the first opening. The second leg extends in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction and has a second end removeably engaging the second opening simultaneously when the first end removeably engages the first opening thereby preventing rotation of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Joseph Curtis TAYLOR, Jack Roy TAYLOR
  • Publication number: 20140217755
    Abstract: An interchangeable door handle system includes a mounting plate having an orifice, a collar surrounding the orifice, an aperture in the collar, wherein the aperture provides access to a lumen of the collar, a clip for insertion into the aperture, a movable ring surrounding the collar, wherein in a first position the ring rests against the clip such that the clip extends through the aperture and into the lumen of the collar and wherein in a second position the ring does not rest against the clip such that the clip does not extend into the lumen of the collar, and a door handle having a cylindrical stem including a gutter, wherein when the ring is in the first position the door handle is secured to the collar, and wherein when the ring is in the second position the door handle is not secured to the door handle and may be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Danielle Kom
  • Publication number: 20140217756
    Abstract: A vehicle door handle device, which is mounted on a side of a vehicle door facing a passenger compartment, includes: a door lock knob provided on a base member such that the door lock knob is pivotable between a locking position for placing the door in a locked state and an unlocking position for placing the door in an unlocked position; and a stopper provided on the base member between the locking position and the unlocking position for limiting pivoting movement of the door lock knob. The stopper has an elastic section, and the door lock knob has a locking surface section for abutting against the elastic section of the stopper when the door lock knob is in the locking position and an unlocking surface section for abutting against the elastic section of the stopper when the door lock knob is in the unlocking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicants: ALPHA Corporation, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Tanoguchi, Daichi Okamoto, Katsuya Ashizawa, Yutaka Saito
  • Publication number: 20140217757
    Abstract: An impact beam (40) comprises a polymer matrix and a reinforcing structure, the structure comprises a number of metal reinforcing cords (22) and non-metal elongated binding elements (26) or non-metal coated elongated binding elements arranged between the cords for holding the metal reinforcing cords together. Each of the metal cords has a metallic cross-sectional area Ametal, and the ratio of the metallic area Ametal to the area of the circumscribed circle (TTdcord2/4) is at least 0.60. The metal cords further have a non chemically binding with the matrix, and non-metal elongated binding elements or non-metal coated elongated binding elements have a chemical bond with said polymer matrix. By not having a mechanical interlocking and a non chemically binding with the matrix, the whole metal cord is stressed and not a local point while in the latter case the metal cord would locally break due to the very high impact forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Erwin Lokere, Jeroen Gallens, Veerle Van Wassenhove, Hendrik Rommel
  • Publication number: 20140217758
    Abstract: A front end for a motor vehicle is disclosed which includes a bumper covering and a support extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle between the bumper covering and a supporting body component. The support has a buckling load which is less than the loading capacity of a connection of the support with the supporting body component and is able to elastically buckle in a collision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Marco Nickel, Matthias Erzgraeber, Theobald Hock
  • Publication number: 20140217759
    Abstract: The present invention describes a snow related removal device adapted for dual functionality. The device is designed to combine two distinct cold weather related tools into a single functioning snow shovel that can be easily converted from a tool that functions to remove snow from a surface to a tool that can chop and/or scrape ice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Uffner, Michael Vogler
  • Publication number: 20140217760
    Abstract: Described is a multi-handled tool that is ergonomically designed to maximize the efficiency of the tool by the use of a handle, optionally rotating, affixed to the shaft of the tool. The rotating handle may be rotated and locked into any desired position so the user can adjust the tool to create maximum efficiency. In addition, a footstep is optionally provided above the tool that allows for a greater digging force. A combination of the first, top handle with the ergonomically spaced handle placement that is completely adjustable combined with the footstep above the head of the tool provides for a tool that is much more efficient than the standard tools used today.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Bosse Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Walden, Ronald Johnson, Steven Escobar
  • Publication number: 20140217761
    Abstract: A restraint system for use in securing temporary flow lines that include multiple pipe sections, each pair of pipe sections connected together with a fitting or coupling such as a hammer joint coupling. The system includes multiple pluralities of endless loop slings connected end to end with a cow hitch or girth hitch knot. Disconnectable fittings (e.g., shackles) are placed every three or more slings so that easy disassembly is afforded in case of leakage or other failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: GULFSTREAM SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Robert Bond, JR., Michael Mire
  • Publication number: 20140217762
    Abstract: A robotic system includes a tendon-driven end effector, a linear actuator, a flexible tendon, and a plate assembly. The linear actuator assembly has a servo motor and a drive mechanism, the latter of which translates linearly with respect to a drive axis of the servo motor in response to output torque from the servo motor. The tendon connects to the end effector and drive mechanism. The plate assembly is disposed between the linear actuator assembly and the tendon-driven end effector and includes first and second plates. The first plate has a first side that defines a boss with a center opening. The second plate defines an arcuate through-slot having tendon guide channels. The first plate defines a through passage for the tendon between the center opening and a second side of the first plate. A looped end of the flexible tendon is received within the tendon guide channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicants: The U.S.A. As Represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Chris A. Ihrke, Myron A. Diftler, Lyndon Bridgwater, Vienny Nguyen, Alexander Millerman
  • Publication number: 20140217763
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for assembling a trim part (10) to a sup-porting part (12) of a vehicle, wherein the trim part (10) has an outer surface (16) and an inner surface (18) and is fixable to the supporting part (12) by fixing means (14) provided on the inner surface (18), a fixing connection being established by engaging the fixing means (14) with counter means (20) provided on the supporting part (12), the method comprising following steps of aligning the trim part (10) and the supporting part (12) such that the fixing means (14) and the counter means (20) can be engaged to each other, engaging the fixing means (14) with the counter means (20) by applying force to the outer surface (16) of trim part (10), and fastening an indicator (30) on the outer surface (16) for indicating the position of the fixing means (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ovgu Sayan, Didem Colakel, Aycin Polat
  • Publication number: 20140217764
    Abstract: A locking retractor is disclosed, as are stretchers and cots using the retractor to secure a patient. The retractor includes structure for locking the retractor spool to prevent rotation in both directions. However, a cam is coupled to the shaft and is arranged relative to the locking structure to prevent the spool from locking during an initial portion of the spool's rotation, until a first locking point is reached. Once the first locking point has been reached, a clutch prevents the locking structure from engaging while the spool is still rotating, but the locking structure will engage to lock the spool in both directions once active rotation stops. A user-actuatable lever is provided externally that disengages the locking structure when actuated to allow the spool to extend and retract freely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Scott Bradley, Jeff Fields, Chase Parish, Tyler Butel
  • Publication number: 20140217765
    Abstract: A mobile showroom and method of using a showroom to transport and display merchandise in an environment that nearly replicates that of the environment in which the merchandise will be used, and also allow the merchandise to be placed in the environment in which the merchandise will be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Jamey Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140217766
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening device for a child seat in a motor vehicle, comprising a one-piece bracket part (4) in the form of a top-tether bracket to be affixed to a support (13) on the backrest (3) of a rear seat. According to the invention, the one-piece bracket part (4) consists of a U-shaped bracket element (6) and of a fitting element (9) connected to the U-legs (7, 8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Witali Effenberger
  • Publication number: 20140217767
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a seat that comprises a seat bottom, a seat back, a first biasing member, and a second biasing member. The seat back is pivotable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The first biasing member is coupled to each of the seat back and the bed frame. The second biasing member is coupled to each of the seat back and the bed frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicants: TS Tech Americas, Inc., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Casey Heit, Hiroshi Okazaki, Darin D. King, Tsuyoshi Kumasaka, Takayuki Inoue, Jacob Zachary Sorrell
  • Publication number: 20140217768
    Abstract: An actuation assembly for a cover extendable over an open-topped container body from a stowed position to a deployed position includes two actuator mechanisms on each side of the body, each including at least one torsion spring having a base portion and at least one reaction end and at least one reaction post in contact with a corresponding reaction end of the at least one spring. In a first exterior actuator mechanism, the reaction post is connectable to the bail arm, while in the second interior actuator mechanism the reaction post is mountable to the container body. A common shaft extends between the base portions of the spring(s) of each actuator mechanism to transmit torque from the interior spring(s) to the exterior spring(s), serving as a rotating anchor for the exterior actuator mechanism. In one embodiment, only the exterior actuator mechanism is situated outside the side extent of the container body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Aero Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Barley
  • Publication number: 20140217769
    Abstract: A soft top for motor vehicles having an apparatus for the replaceable introduction of a pane, and to a soft top of this type having a pane. The soft top has an apparatus for the replaceable introduction of a pane, comprising a flexible roof element and having a pane receiving gap. The roof element is folded over toward the pane receiving gap in an end region which faces the pane receiving gap. An insert element is provided in a pocket which is formed by the folded-over roof element, and a holding element is provided which extends on a first side of the pane receiving gap between a side of the insert element, which side faces away from the pane receptacle, and the roof element and on a second side of the pane receiving gap, which second side lies opposite the first side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Mirko Blau, Maximilian Klein
  • Publication number: 20140217770
    Abstract: A door handle assembly for a vehicle includes a mount structure, a door handle, and a latch assembly. The door handle includes an interface portion and a mounting portion. The interface portion includes inner and outer surfaces. The mounting portion is pivotally coupled with the mount structure such that the door handle is pivotable about a first axis between first and second positions. The latch assembly includes a latch body and an actuator arm pivotally coupled with the latch body. The latch body is attached to the mount structure. The actuator arm is pivotable between released and actuated positions. The door handle is configured to contact the actuator arm during at least a portion of the pivotal movement of the door handle from the first position to the second position, forcing the actuator arm to pivot from the released position to the actuated position. Vehicles are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masayuki Hirukawa
  • Publication number: 20140217771
    Abstract: The frontal crash load is transmitted from a front pillar to a center pillar in a reliable manner so that a bending moment caused by the frontal crash load is favorably supported, and the deformation of the door is avoided. A beam member attached to an inner panel includes a S shaped cross section member. An upper channel section of the S shaped cross section member extends along the lower edge of a window opening, and a lower channel section extends adjacent to and in parallel to the lower edge of a window opening in a rear part of the door and is offset toward a lower part of the vehicle body in a rear part of the door, with a front end being located at a same elevation as an upper door hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigeto Yasuhara, Shingo Segawa
  • Publication number: 20140217772
    Abstract: A door frame structure of a vehicle door includes an upright pillar sash and an upper sash that are joined together at a corner portion. An opening is formed in a tubular enclosed frame body portion of one of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash, at the corner portion, into which a tubular enclosed frame body portion of the other of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash is inserted. A longitudinal-end surface of the other of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash is brought against an inner surface of the frame body portion of the one of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash. An insertion part of the other of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash is fixed and welded to the one of the upright pillar sash and the upper sash.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: SHIROKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Makoto YAMADA, Jun MAKITA
  • Publication number: 20140217773
    Abstract: [PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED] To provide a vehicle door, in which the arrangement of the reinforcing bracket is not limited, and the strength of the joined portion between the door frame and the door panel can be improved. The vehicle door has a portion of a door frame that forms a window opening inserted into the inside of a door panel. The door frame is provided with a stepped portion which separates a surface area on the frame forming portion side and a surface area on the insertion portion side from each other; the surface area on the insertion portion side that is continuous with the stepped portion is formed as an inner-panel facing surface facing the inner panel; the inner-panel facing surface is shifted in a direction away from the inner panel by the stepped portion; and the reinforcing bracket is made to overlap the shifted inner-panel facing surface therealong.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: SHIROKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji Shimizu, Hiroaki Yamazaki, Shigenobu Ohsawa