Patents Issued in August 11, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160229394
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle control apparatus capable of determining an oscillating motion with no or less delay. The vehicle control apparatus includes a vehicle behavior detection sensor configured to detect a behavior acting on a vehicle, a vehicle behavior reference value calculation unit configured to calculate a reference value of the behavior of the vehicle, based on an output value of another sensor than the vehicle behavior detection sensor, and an oscillating detection unit configured to compare the output value of the sensor and the reference value and detect that a trailer towed by a towing vehicle has an oscillating motion, based on a magnitude of an amplitude of the output value relative to an amplitude of the reference value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventors: Yusuke FUJII, Junichi SHIBAYAMA
  • Publication number: 20160229395
    Abstract: A method and a system for communicating a an ego-vehicle's determined behavior to a target object is for use in a driver assistance system of a vehicle. The method includes steps of acquiring data of a traffic scene preferably by sensor means configured to sense an environment of the vehicle, calculating a prediction result including a target object's behaviour based on the acquired sensor data, determining an action of the host vehicle based on the prediction result and generating an actuation signal for performing the determined action, and determining a communication information indicating the determined action. The communication information is output to a communication means for communication to the target object via at least one of a lighting means of the vehicle and a car-to-x communication means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Jens SCHMÜDDERICH
  • Publication number: 20160229396
    Abstract: A vehicle collision avoidance system that utilizes signal emitters and receivers positioned around the periphery of vehicles to detect nearby vehicles. Upon detection of a nearby vehicle, the system may execute any of a variety of predefined responses based on the distance from the local vehicle to the detected nearby vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: AI Incorporated
    Inventor: Ali Ebrahimi Afrouzi
  • Publication number: 20160229397
    Abstract: Autonomous short distance manoeuvring with optimal acceleration for avoiding or mitigating inevitable side and read end collision is a highly time sensitive design and technique that actively monitors, instantaneously senses inevitable or imminent side impact and rear end collision, alert or warns the driver and if the driver not available or doesn't react or if the drivers sensing and reaction time is not sufficient the present system according to scenarios acts in the right time to takes control of the vehicle's with autonomous optimal acceleration and steering followed by deceleration or restoring the control back to driver based on scenarios thereby mobilising the vehicle to short distance according to critical situations thus efficiently utilising the space around the vehicle to manoeuvre, locate or position the vehicle ultimately to avoid or mitigate the side impact and read end collision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: PRASAD MUTHUKUMAR
  • Publication number: 20160229398
    Abstract: With a method for at least partially automatically controlling, in particular automatically parking a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, provision is made according to the invention for the movement of the vehicle to be predicted, for the position of a body outside the vehicle to be detected, for a possible spatial and/or time-related contact area between the vehicle and the body on the outer shell of the vehicle to be predicted, for a structure-borne sound measurement to be taken in the predicted spatial and/or time-related contact area and for a warning signal to be issued to the control unit if a previously specified criterion is met by the measured structure-borne sound signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Klaas Hauke BAUMGAERTEL, Thomas NIEMANN
  • Publication number: 20160229399
    Abstract: In a vehicle travel support system or a vehicle travel support method, a control apparatus estimates a travel path of a vehicle on the basis of the present position of the vehicle and map information, acquires from a map information storage apparatus a curve radius that is of a curve included in the travel path and that is contained in the map information, performs a vehicle turning support or a deceleration support prior to entry to the curve on the basis of a start point of the curve which is detected on the basis of front images, and performs the vehicle turning support for the curve by using the curve radius contained in the map information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takuji Wada, Hiroyuki Koibuchi
  • Publication number: 20160229400
    Abstract: A method is provided for adapting the starting gear of an automated manual transmission in a heavy vehicle, where a pre-selected starting gear is selected by a transmission control unit depending on vehicle parameters of the heavy vehicle, where the starting gear is lowered from the pre-selected starting gear depending on a movement behaviour of a vehicle in front of the heavy vehicle. The pre-selected starting gear can be adapted to the traffic in front of the vehicle, which makes it possible to avoid unnecessary gear changes and which allows for a smooth starting cycle of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Johan BJERNETUN, Anders ERIKSSON
  • Publication number: 20160229401
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle running control apparatus capable of controlling a vehicle comfortably while inhibiting an uncomfortable feeling of a driver in consideration of dimensions of longitudinal acceleration requirements for the vehicle. This vehicle running control apparatus includes: a first control command value calculation unit configured to calculate a first control command value that controls vehicle longitudinal acceleration; a second control command value calculation unit configured to calculate a second control command value that controls longitudinal acceleration according to a lateral jerk that acts on the vehicle; a correction determination processing unit configured to determine whether to make correction based on the first control command value and the second control command value; and a correction processing unit configured, when the correction determination processing unit determines that correction is needed, to correct the first control command value based on the second control command value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Keiichiro NAGATSUKA, Makoto YAMAKADO, Mitsuhide SASAKI, Mikio UEYAMA
  • Publication number: 20160229402
    Abstract: A travel control device 10 includes: an intersection stopped vehicle determining unit 12 that determines whether or not a forward vehicle is a stopped vehicle that is stopped at an intersection, based on distance information from the own vehicle to each forward vehicle acquired by a forward vehicle detection device 1, and distance information to the intersection existing ahead of the own vehicle acquired by a forward intersection distance acquisition device 2; and a vehicle stop position prediction unit 13 that predicts a stop position of the own vehicle at the intersection based on distance information of the stopped vehicle, when the forward vehicle is determined as the stopped vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeki MORITA, Hisashi SUGAWARA
  • Publication number: 20160229403
    Abstract: An auto stop-start equipped vehicle power management system includes a primary power source supplying energy to an electrical starter to crank a vehicle engine and a secondary power source coupled in parallel to the primary power source. The secondary power source supplies energy to electric loads during an engine auto stop-start operation. The electrical loads maintain vehicle subsystem functionality during the engine auto stop-start operation. The energy supplied to the electrical loads is current limited during the engine auto stop-start operation. A controllable switch decouples the secondary power source from the primary power source and starter motor during the engine auto stop-start operation. Operating parameters of the electrical loads are monitored during the engine auto stop-start operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: HAFIZ S. KHAFAGY, KIRK PEBLEY, WILLIAM J. BOUSE, ZELJKO DELJEVIC
  • Publication number: 20160229404
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to a method for controlling a vehicle based on crowdsourcing data. According to the method, the vehicle transmits a route request to a server, receive navigation information in response to the route request, controls an operation of the vehicle based on the transmitted navigation information, collects vehicle driving data, during driving according to the transmitted navigation information, transmits the collected data to the server, receives generated crowdsourcing data, updates the transmitted navigation information based on the received crowdsourcing data, and controls the operation of the vehicle based on the updated navigation information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Jung H. BYUN
  • Publication number: 20160229405
    Abstract: A rotation state of each rotating element of a four-wheel drive vehicle and an operating state of each engagement element of a disconnect mechanism, corresponding to an operating state of the disconnect mechanism, are displayed on or near a vehicle model image on a vehicle display. Thus, it is possible to inform a driver of the operating state of the disconnect mechanism at any time. Thus, the driver is able to recognize the operating state of the disconnect mechanism at any time, so the driver is able to carry out driving based on the operating state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Satoshi SHIMIZU, Yoshiro OBAYASHI, Ryota HORIE, Norihiro MIZOGUCHI, Shintarou MUKOUGAWA, Kunihiro IWATSUKI
  • Publication number: 20160229406
    Abstract: A control device for a vehicle including an engine, a transmission, a connector/disconnector, and control means, wherein the transmission is configured to change a speed of rotation by chive force of the engine and output the rotation. The connector/disconnector is configured to connect/disconnect transmission of the chive force from the engine to the transmission. The control means controls the engine, the transmission, and the connector/disconnector. In the vehicle control device, in a case where the control means performs idle neutral control by controlling the connector/disconnector to a release side after making the engine return from an idle stop state, the control means makes a determination as to performance of the idle neutral control when it is determined that a rotational speed of the engine is stabilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Atsushi Okabe, Ukyo Ogata, Keiichi Nishiyama
  • Publication number: 20160229407
    Abstract: A method is provided for preselecting a gear in a multi-clutch transmission of a vehicle upon exiting free-wheeling state, wherein the multi-clutch transmission being operated in a free-wheeling state having a gear of a first set of gears preselected and a first friction clutch being disengaged; the method including the steps of: A) upon determining that at least one predetermined condition for exiting free-wheeling state is met; increasing the rotational speed of the prime mover towards a rotational synchronization speed of the preselected gear; the second friction clutch being in a closed state such that the rotational speed of the input shaft of the second friction clutch increases with the increasing rotational speed of the prime mover; B) disengaging the second friction clutch; C) engaging, at a suitable time point, at least one tooth clutch of the second subset of the tooth clutches corresponding to a gear of the second set of gears such that the gear of the second set of gears becomes preselected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATION
    Inventor: Fredrik KARPENMAN
  • Publication number: 20160229408
    Abstract: A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle system employs an improved integrated propulsion device, a drive system and battery management system that is operable to be used in the commercial vehicle business. The vehicle system is operable to provide optimal performance for particular fleet applications by taking into consideration driving patterns and load demands. The vehicle system also provides a drive for auxiliary equipment for work vehicles and driver selectable driving modes for when a vehicle encounters different driving demands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: David J. Stenson
  • Publication number: 20160229409
    Abstract: A means of transport, an apparatus and a method for accelerating a vehicle in the case of a line start at a traffic light system including determining a likelihood of a predefined vehicle being able to pass through the traffic light system during a current or imminent green phase, accelerating the vehicle in accordance with a signal from an electronic towbar system if the likelihood is higher than a predefined threshold value, and accelerating the vehicle to a lesser extent if the likelihood is lower than the predefined threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Patrick PASCHEKA, Sandra KLEINAU
  • Publication number: 20160229410
    Abstract: Systems and methods use cameras to provide autonomous navigation features. In one implementation, a method for navigating a user vehicle may include acquiring, using at least one image capture device, a plurality of images of an area in a vicinity of the user vehicle; determining from the plurality of images a first lane constraint on a first side of the user vehicle and a second lane constraint on a second side of the user vehicle opposite to the first side of the user vehicle; enabling the user vehicle to pass a target vehicle if the target vehicle is determined to be in a lane different from the lane in which the user vehicle is traveling; and causing the user vehicle to abort the pass before completion of the pass, if the target vehicle is determined to be entering the lane in which the user vehicle is traveling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: MOBILEYE VISION TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Anna Clarke, Eyal Bagon
  • Publication number: 20160229411
    Abstract: The invention provides a power storage system of a hybrid vehicle in which a battery can be charged with electric power supplied from an external power supply. The power storage system includes an engine heater and a battery heater, a DC/DC converter that converts a voltage of input power and outputs the power to the engine heater and the battery heater, respectively, a charger connected to the external power supply and operable to outputs power supplied from the external power battery to the battery and the DC/DC converter, and a controller that performs external charge control for charging the battery with power supplied from the external power supply, and temperature regulation control for raising the temperatures of the engine and the battery, by supplying power from the external power supply to the engine heater and the battery heater via the DC/DC converter, until the external charge control ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Takashi MURATA
  • Publication number: 20160229412
    Abstract: A cognitive mirror apparatus includes an imaging device configured to capture a plurality of images, a controller configured to determine a cognitive state of a user; and a cognitive mirror configured to display a virtual reflection comprising one or more of the plurality of images, wherein the virtual reflection of the cognitive mirror is determined using the cognitive state of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: MICHAEL S. GORDON, JAMES R. KOZLOSKI, PETER K. MALKIN, CLIFFORD A. PICKOVER
  • Publication number: 20160229413
    Abstract: A device has a measuring device, in particular an alcohol-measuring device (3), for measuring the state of intoxication of a test subject and for generating a corresponding measured value. A camera (5) is provided for recording an image with the face of the test subject. A control unit (4) is configured to store the measured value together with the image in a memory unit (10). An analyzer (12) is configured such that the analyzer can identify a face and/or a defined, fixed pattern in the image. A follow-up action is triggered by the analyzer (12) when a face and/or pattern could not be identified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Stefan MORLEY, Peter MICHELS, Martin ZIMMERMANN
  • Publication number: 20160229414
    Abstract: A method and device for estimating the operating time of a motor vehicle in autonomous mode for at least one route between a departure point and an arrival point. The estimating device is connected to an identifying element and to an element for characterizing portions of roads approved for the operation of the vehicle in autonomous mode, along the at least one route. The estimating device includes a unit for calculating the time during which the vehicle is eligible to operate in autonomous mode depending on the characterization of approved portions of road.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: RENAULT S.A.S.
    Inventors: Francois DESNOYER, Sabine LANGLOIS, Jean-Francois FORZY
  • Publication number: 20160229415
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle assistant system (10) of a vehicle comprising at feast a first camera (20) and a second camera (30), wherein the first camera (20) is arranged such that the area in front of the vehicle can at least partially be captured, and wherein the second camera (30) is arranged such that the interior of the vehicle can at least partially be captured, and wherein the vehicle assistant system (10) comprises one common image data analysis unit (40) which is configured to process image data received from the first camera (20) and the second camera (30). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a vehicle comprising at least one vehicle assistant system (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Frank Laakmann, Swen Schaub, Christian Mücke, Christian Ammon, Thomas Herpich
  • Publication number: 20160229416
    Abstract: A high-speed transportation system includes at least one transportation structure having at least one track, at least one capsule configured for travel through the at least one structure between a plurality of stations, a propulsion system adapted to propel the at least one capsule through the structure, and a levitation system adapted to levitate the capsule within the structure. At least one track is positioned to provide balancing force vectors to achieve stability for the capsule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20160229417
    Abstract: A high-speed transportation system, includes at least one transportation tube having at least one track, at least one capsule configured for travel through the at least one tube between stations, a propulsion system adapted to propel the at least one capsule through the tube, a levitation system adapted to levitate the capsule within the tube. The at least one transportation tube is structured and arranged as a net-tension tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicants: HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20160229418
    Abstract: A high-speed transportation system, the system including at least one transportation tube having at least one track, at least one capsule configured for travel through the at least one tube between stations, a propulsion system for the at least one capsule; and a levitation system for levitating the capsule in the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20160229419
    Abstract: A high-speed transportation system including at least one transportation tube having at least one track, at least one capsule configured for travel through the at least one tube along a travel path between stations, a propulsion system adapted to propel the at least one capsule through the tube, and a levitation system adapted to levitate the capsule within the tube. At least a portion of the travel path is arranged over or in a body of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20160229420
    Abstract: A high-speed transportation system, the system having at least one enclosed volume that is configured to be maintained as a low-pressure environment, at least one track along a transportation path within the at least enclosed volume; and a plurality of capsules configured for travel through the at least one enclosed volume between stations. The at least one enclosed volume is at least partially defined by at least one flexible material structured and arranged to withstand a tensile load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Hyperloop Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James T. COUTRE, Casey HANDMER, Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL, Filip FINODEYEV
  • Publication number: 20160229421
    Abstract: A protection system of a railway vehicle traction system includes an electric motor and an electrical power supply circuit. The system further includes: a mechanical coupler between first and second components of a transmission line, the first component being connected to an output shaft of the electric motor and the second component being connected to an input shaft of an axle of the railway vehicle, the coupler being able to be in an engaged or disengaged state; and a controller able to apply a disengagement signal to the coupling signal, to switch from the engaged state to the disengaged state if a failure of the power supply circuit and/or the electric motor is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Periot
  • Publication number: 20160229422
    Abstract: A communication system and method receive, at an energy management system disposed onboard a vehicle system formed from a lead vehicle and one or more remote vehicles, trip data that represents one or more characteristics of an upcoming trip of the vehicle system along a route. A selected portion of the trip data is communicated from the energy management system to a distributed power system also disposed onboard the vehicle system. The selected portion includes identifying information and one or more orientations of the one or more remote vehicles. Using the distributed power system, communication links between the lead vehicle and the one or more remote vehicles are established using the identifying information and the one or more orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Scott Alan Schoenly, Steven Andrew Kellner, Robert James Foy, David Michael Peltz, Eugene Smith, James Glen Corry, Joseph Mario Nazareth, Brian William Schroeck
  • Publication number: 20160229423
    Abstract: The invention relates to a passenger cabin of a vehicle, in particular a saloon coach of a rail vehicle, wherein the passenger cabin (1) comprises a room divider (10), wherein the room divider (10) is attached to a cabin frame, wherein the room divider (10) comprises at least one backrest surface (11, 12), wherein at least a section of the backrest surface (11, 12) extends along a longitudinal axis (3) of the passenger cabin (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Paul Griggs, Richard Butterfield
  • Publication number: 20160229424
    Abstract: A door suspension device includes a driving-side member, a hanger, an elastic member, pressed door rollers, and linking mechanisms. The driving-side member is displaceable in an opening/closing direction X when a drive force is imparted from an opening/closing drive mechanism. The hanger is displaced in conjunction with a displacement of the driving-side member and supports a door. The elastic member allows relative displacements of the driving-side member and the hanger by elastically deforming in accordance with a load that acts between the driving-side member and the hanger. The linking mechanisms convert a relative displacement operation of the driving-side member and the hanger into an operation in which the pressed door rollers are pressed against an upper rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Yuki TAKAYAMA
  • Publication number: 20160229425
    Abstract: A cable transportation system bogie extends along a longitudinal axis and has a main frame defining a supporting surface; a platform configured to support at least one car; and an articulated mechanism connected to the main frame and the platform, and configured to transmit pulling force between the main frame and the platform, and to permit movement of the platform with respect to the main frame in any direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Federico Bavaresco, Franco Coco, Alain Mollet, Giuseppe Conte
  • Publication number: 20160229426
    Abstract: There is provided a three-axle truck for a railcar having three wheelsets in a truck frame of the one truck, in which in each of the wheelsets, axle boxes are supported by the truck frame through axle springs, the truck frame has a structure for supporting a carbody whose weight is variable, and making variations in axle loads on the respective wheelsets be maintained at a preset value or less in spite of change of the carbody weight, and in this structure, spring constants of the both-end axle springs in the respective wheelsets located at both ends of three axles are set to be larger than a spring constant of the middle axle spring of the wheelset located in the middle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshi SATO, Masahiro HAMADA, Junichi SAKAMOTO, Koichi MURATA
  • Publication number: 20160229427
    Abstract: A transport vehicle for traveling in a low-pressure environment structure is provided. The transport vehicle may include a deployable decelerator provided on the transport vehicle and configured to deploy from the transport vehicle to decrease a distance between the transport vehicle and the low-pressure environment structure. When the decelerator is deployed the decelerator is configured to increase drag forces opposing a direction of motion of the transport vehicle and decelerate the transport vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: HYPERLOOP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Tadeh AVETIAN, Helen DURDEN, Ryan OKERSON, Brogan BAMBROGAN, Joshua GIEGEL
  • Publication number: 20160229428
    Abstract: Braking systems for railway cars are provided. A braking system defines a longitudinal axis, and includes a first brake assembly, a second brake assembly, and an actuator operable to generate a linear force, the actuator disposed proximate the second brake assembly. The braking system further includes a movable rod and a fixed rod extending between the first brake assembly and the second brake assembly. In some embodiments, the braking system further includes a lever and a slack adjuster disposed proximate the first brake assembly, the slack adjuster connected to the first brake assembly and the lever and operable to adjust a distance along the longitudinal axis between a reference point of the first brake assembly and a pivot point of the lever. In some embodiments, the braking system includes a strut connected to the second brake assembly, the actuator, fixed rod and movable rod connected to the strut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Jonathan Sunde
  • Publication number: 20160229429
    Abstract: Braking systems for railway cars are provided. A braking system defines a longitudinal axis, and includes a first brake assembly, a second brake assembly, and an actuator operable to generate a linear force, the actuator disposed proximate the second brake assembly. The braking system further includes a movable rod and a fixed rod extending between the first brake assembly and the second brake assembly. In some embodiments, the braking system further includes a lever and a slack adjuster disposed proximate the first brake assembly, the slack adjuster connected to the first brake assembly and the lever and operable to adjust a distance along the longitudinal axis between a reference point of the first brake assembly and a pivot point of the lever. In some embodiments, the braking system includes a strut connected to the second brake assembly, the actuator, fixed rod and movable rod connected to the strut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Jonathan Sunde
  • Publication number: 20160229430
    Abstract: A vented cap for a main spring housing of a slack adjuster including an inner portion having an inner seal surface configured for cooperating with an elongated rod member and an outer seal surface configured for cooperating with a sidewall located at an end portion of the main spring housing. The vented end cap includes at least one opening configured to allow fluid and/or contaminants trapped within the slack adjuster and/or the end cap to drain therethrough. Various seals and/or drainage openings can also be provided along the slack adjuster to prevent the entrance of and/or allow for drainage of fluid/contaminants from the slack adjuster. A method for preventing the accumulation of fluid and/or contaminants within a slack adjuster and for protecting a critical operating area of the slack adjuster is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Shaun T. Whalen, Peter Paul Gregar, Scott Lee Natschke
  • Publication number: 20160229431
    Abstract: A chain and hydraulic motor-driven low dog railcar indexer is disclosed which is operable along a curved track section. The system includes left and right track side indexing railcar-moving arrangements, each of which includes an indexer track and a chain-return trough. The indexer tracks and chain return troughs are segmented to accommodate the curved railroad track section and wear pads are provided to enable chain operation in the curved section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Calvin J. Brandt
  • Publication number: 20160229432
    Abstract: In a communication system and method, a vehicle identifier is determined for a first remote vehicle that is included in a vehicle consist formed from a lead vehicle and at least the first remote vehicle. The system and method communicate a wireless linking message addressed to the vehicle identifier from the lead vehicle to the first remote vehicle, and establish a communication link between the lead vehicle and the first remote vehicle responsive to receipt of the wireless linking message at the first remote vehicle. The communication link is established such that movement of the first remote vehicle is remotely controlled from the lead vehicle via the communication link. The communication link is established without an operator entering the first remote vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Steven Andrew Kellner, Robert James Foy, David Michael Peltz, Eugene Smith, James Glen Corry, Joseph Mario Nazareth, Brian William Schroeck
  • Publication number: 20160229433
    Abstract: A method for detecting a locked wheel on a locomotive is disclosed. The locomotive may have a plurality of wheels, a traction system configured to drive the plurality of wheels, and a controller in communication with the traction system. The fraction system may have a fraction motor coupled to each of the plurality of wheels, a speed sensor associated with each traction motor, an inverter connected to each traction motor, and at least one current sensor associated with each inverter. The method may include the controller detecting an initial locked wheel condition based on signals received from the speed sensors, and the controller determining if the initial locked wheel condition is true based on signals received from the current sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc.
    Inventors: Isaac Suwa Traylor, Gregory Raymond Kupiec, Dennis Melas
  • Publication number: 20160229434
    Abstract: According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of devices, systems, and methods related to tracking location of operator control units for locomotives. In an exemplary embodiment, an operator control unit includes a user interface configured to receive one or more commands from an operator for controlling a locomotive. The operator control unit also includes a global positioning system (GPS) receiver configured to receive location information of the operator control unit, and a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device is configured to transmit command data corresponding to the one or more commands and location data corresponding to the location information to a machine control unit on the locomotive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: André Brousseau, Jeremy Jovenall
  • Publication number: 20160229435
    Abstract: System and method for a virtual crossing alert system that provides a notification, an alert, or a command to an alert receiving system depending on the spatial relationships of actors within a specified area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Michael C. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20160229436
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus, such as may be used with gas cylinders such as welding has cylinders, comprising a frame (1) and a carriage (3), the carriage being mounted on the frame through a mounting (9), the mounting (9) allowing the carriage (3) to rotate relative to the frame (1) and to slide linearly relative to the frame (1) constrained to a path, the carriage (3) being provided with a loading surface (2, 12, 24) for a load (101). The mounting may comprise a bar (19) typically on the carriage (3) held captive in a track (25) typically on the frame (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: John JONES
  • Publication number: 20160229437
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure which may include an outer housing, an inner lining, an insulation space in between, a top, an inner platform, a charging station, a wireless charging panel, power-assist wheels with intelligent torque control for transport, a storage compartment, a removable innner liner, and a handle. The structure may comprise a portable container, such as an insulated cooler for storing cooled food and beverages for social and leisure activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Dane Jackman
  • Publication number: 20160229438
    Abstract: Self-adjusting balanced multipurpose transport carriers and methods of using the same are provided. Aspects include a transport carrier for carrying a balanced load comprising a harness belt for attaching to a user, a mono-wheel, a platform, a stop plate, and a frame comprising first and second side rails and a pair of crisscross shoulder straps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Kendall A. MORSE
  • Publication number: 20160229439
    Abstract: A stroller frame includes a bottom pipe, a rear foot, a handle, a carrier device, and a linking component. The rear foot is pivoted to the bottom pipe and the handle. A rear end of the carrier device is detachably connected to the rear foot. The linking component is pivotally bendable. Two opposite ends of the linking component are pivoted to the handle and the bottom pipe respectively. A middle portion of the linking component is pivoted to the rear foot. A front end of the carrier device is pivoted to the linking component in an engageable manner, and the linking component drives the carrier device to be folded when the stroller frame is folded. Therefore, the stroller frame can be folded into a smaller size easily, which is convenience for storage and transportation. Furthermore, depending on different situations, the carrier device can be detached from the stroller frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Zhi-Ren Zhong
  • Publication number: 20160229440
    Abstract: A stroller system including a rear suspension system comprising two springs is discussed. The stroller system is configured to withstand a variety of operating conditions including various terrain, speed and weight requirements. An embodiment of a stroller with a dual elastic suspension system is also discussed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Patrick William Laffan, Leslie Stiba
  • Publication number: 20160229441
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a stroller with a secondary attachment mechanism to facilitate the attachment of various structures to the stroller. In one embodiment, the secondary attachment mechanism may comprise an infant car seat adapter. In another embodiment, the secondary attachment may comprise a basket. The present disclosure also relates to a basket for use in an expandable stroller system. The expandable stroller system comprises an expandable base. The basket attaches to the expandable stroller system and expands with the expandable base of the stroller system advantageously providing additional storage space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: Patrick William Laffan, Leslie Stiba
  • Publication number: 20160229442
    Abstract: A skiing apparatus including an upper frame member, a lower seat member, a handle member, a lower frame, a ski attachment member, an upper shock absorbing connector member, and a lower shock absorbing connector member. The lower seat member has a medial portion connected to the upper frame member. The handle member is connected to the upper frame member in fixed relation to the lower seat member. The lower frame member is connected to the lower seat member. The ski attachment member is connected to the lower frame member and adapted to be detachably connected to a ski. The upper shock absorbing connector member is connected to the lower seat member. The lower shock absorbing connector member is connected to the lower frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventor: Jeff Rapp
  • Publication number: 20160229443
    Abstract: A rack and pinion mechanism includes: a pinion shaft at which pinion teeth are formed; a rack shaft at which rack teeth to be engaged with the pinion teeth are formed; a pressing portion arranged at a side of the rack shaft opposite to a side of the rack shaft at which the rack teeth are formed and pressing the rack shaft toward the pinion shaft; a first elastic body biasing the pressing portion in a direction approaching the pinion shaft by an elastic restoring force; and a second elastic body biasing the pressing portion in a direction away from the pinion shaft by an elastic restoring force, and a first biasing force with which the first elastic body biases the pressing portion is larger than a second biasing force with which the second elastic body biases the pressing portion in an initial state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Applicant: SHOWA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Ryosuke TAKEI