Patents Issued in February 9, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170036683
    Abstract: A method of casting a core includes the steps of preparing a first half of a corebox, preparing a second half of a corebox such that the parting line of a core formed from the first and second coreboxes runs along the vertical axis of the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: F. Andrew Nibouar, Jerry R. Smerecky, Kelly S. Day, Vaughn Makary, Nick Salamasick
  • Publication number: 20170036684
    Abstract: A cabin monitoring system is disclosed for use with a machine having an operator cabin. The cabin monitoring system may have a scanner oriented inward to capture images inside the operator cabin, and a controller in communication with the scanner. The controller may be configured to determine a change in conditions inside the operator cabin, and to selectively affect operation of the scanner based on the change in conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: PROGRESS RAIL SERVICES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephen Harold HUMPHREY, Marc David MILLER
  • Publication number: 20170036685
    Abstract: A cart is provided for hauling sport fence panels for setting up a temporary outfield boundary for softball and baseball fields. The cart has laterally extending fence panel supports sized to haul enough fence panels to set up an entire field in one trip with the cart. The cart is manufactured in a modular form such that it can be readily and easily disassembled to make it shippable to a customer in a small, compact package. The assembled cart can be moved about a ball field using a lawn tractor, ATV, UTV or other vehicle as is found in grounds-keeping. The cart is light enough, even when loaded with panels, to be hand towed about a field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Edward Spence
  • Publication number: 20170036686
    Abstract: A shopping cart in one embodiment comprises a uniframe, a mat basket, and a slim-fit cart frame and basket combination, as well as in multiple embodiments, providing individual structural differences and advantages over pre-existing forms of shopping carts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Bobby D. Peters, Wesley Mc Murtrey, Gregory A. Cox
  • Publication number: 20170036687
    Abstract: This steering wheel structure has: a steering wheel main unit; a horn block; a support block; horn contacts; and a horn spring, wherein the support block has: a lock member; and an elastic body, wherein a load bypass member is provided that transmits an operation load in a push-in direction, which has been applied to the horn block, to the lock member while circumventing the elastic body, and wherein the load bypass member is configured so as to be in a non-contact state between itself and at least either of the horn block side and the lock member side when the horn block is in a vicinity of a default position, and so as to be brought into contact with the horn block side and the lock member side in a manner capable of transmitting a load when the horn block is pushed in by a predetermined amount or greater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuya Obayashi, Eisuke Kurata, Takashi Kondo
  • Publication number: 20170036688
    Abstract: The present invention provides a steering wheel and a heater unit used for the steering wheel that does not give discomfort to a user when operating the steering wheel. A heater unit 31 is comprised of a substrate 10 made of a polymeric foam; and a cord-shaped heater 1 arranged on the substrate 10, wherein a thickness of the substrate 10 is thinner at a portion on which the cord-shaped heater 1 is arranged than other area so that the portion is formed along a shape of the cord-shaped heater 1 and the heater unit 31 is flat. A steering wheel, comprised of the above described heater unit; a wheel core material; and a covering material, wherein the heater unit is arranged between the wheel core material and the covering material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Akifumi WADA, Masatsugu SAITO, Yuki NAITO
  • Publication number: 20170036689
    Abstract: A steering column assembly includes a steering column pivotably coupled to a rake bracket at a first pivot point, a rake locking mechanism including a rotatable rake bolt, and a multi-link assembly including a first member, a second member and a third member. The first member includes a first end fixedly coupled to the rotatable rake bolt and the second end rotatably coupled to a first end of the second member. The second member includes a second end rotatably coupled to a first end of a link portion of the third member. The third member includes a link coupled to a lever. A first end of the lever is coupled to a second end of the link. The lever includes a thumb pad. Rotation of the thumb pad around a second pivot point effects rotation of the rotatable rake bolt to lock or unlock the rake locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Dan W. Figlioli, Michael P. Phillips, Jessica P. Tran
  • Publication number: 20170036690
    Abstract: A steering shaft for a motor vehicle may comprise a first shaft part and a second shaft part that is telescopable with respect to the first shaft part. The first shaft part may comprise at least one spline region with at least one guide element that is in a form-fit engagement with the second shaft part for guiding the first shaft part relative to the second shaft part during the telescoping and with at least one transmission element that is in engagement with the second shaft part via a loose form-fit for transmitting a torque. The spline region may be at least partially overmolded with a plastic, and the guide element may be formed by the overmolding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicants: ThyssenKrupp Presta AG, ThyssenKrupp AG
    Inventors: Bernhard Jäger, Janick Durot, Marius Breuer
  • Publication number: 20170036691
    Abstract: A shaft coupling structure includes a rotating shaft, a worm shaft, a first member, a second member, and an intermediate member that is an elastic member. The intermediate member is interposed between the first member and the second member. Coupling protrusions of the first member that extend in an axial direction are each inserted between second radial protrusions of the intermediate member and between a plurality of first radial protrusions of the second member. Protruding portions of the first radial protrusions engage with the corresponding recessed portions of the second radial protrusions in the axial direction. When a relative rotation angle between the first member and the second member is smaller than a predetermined angle, ends of each of the second radial protrusions in a circumferential direction each projects in the circumferential direction with respect to a corresponding end of the corresponding first radial protrusion in the circumferential direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Arata KIKUCHI, Naofumi KAWAMURA, Naoji KAWASOKO
  • Publication number: 20170036692
    Abstract: A travel control device for vehicle (10) includes a steering transmission ratio variable device (14), a steering transmission ratio control device (16) configured to carry out such control that an actual relative rotational angle (?re) of the steering transmission ratio variable device reaches a target value (?ret), a power steering device (18), a steering assist torque control device (20) configured to control the power steering device, and a driving support device (22) configured to correct a target steering assist torque so that an actual steering angle of steered wheels (19FL, 19FR) reaches a target steering angle for driving support. When the driving support device is in operation (Step 140), the magnitude of a change in a relative rotational angle generated by the control of the steering transmission ratio variable device is decreased (Step 150 to 200) compared to a case in which the driving support device is not in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Takahiro KOJO
  • Publication number: 20170036693
    Abstract: A kingpin unit bearing steerable drive axle for a powered wheel of a vehicle may include a steering knuckle having a first side and a second side, and a unit bearing configured to support a wheel and operatively connected to the first side of the steering knuckle. An axle housing is operatively connected to the second side of the steering knuckle, and the axle housing has an upper arm and a lower arm. A first kingpin connects the upper arm of the axle housing to the steering knuckle; and a second kingpin connects the lower arm of the axle housing to the steering knuckle. The steering knuckle and the axle housing are configured to receive a powered axle shaft to drive the unit bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Dennis REID
  • Publication number: 20170036694
    Abstract: A lane keeping assist apparatus has a vehicle speed responsive adjustment section which receives a target steering angle and a vehicle speed, sets a vehicle speed adjustment coefficient on the basis of the vehicle speed, multiplies an FF target steering torque by the vehicle speed adjustment coefficient, and outputs the resultant value as an adjusted FF target steering torque. The vehicle speed adjustment coefficient is set to 0 when the vehicle speed is lower than a first set vehicle speed and to 1 when the vehicle speed is higher than a second set vehicle speed. An adding section adds the adjusted FF target steering torque and an FB target steering torque together and outputs the resultant value as a final target steering torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yuji OKUDA, Hidenobu KINUGASA
  • Publication number: 20170036695
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments disclose a parking assistance apparatus and a method of controlling the same, including, displaying an around view monitoring (AVM) image for a predetermined range from a vehicle on a touchscreen, sensing a touch input for a region in which the AVM image is displayed, and setting a target parking region of the vehicle based on a type and a pattern of the touch input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Seong soo LEE, Sang kook KIM
  • Publication number: 20170036696
    Abstract: A vehicle body framework structure includes: a framework member that is formed in an elongated tube shape; and a reinforcement member that is disposed inside the framework member. The reinforcement member includes a main portion that contacts both of a pair of opposing inner faces of the framework member, and a leading end portion having a shape that gradually separates away from both of the pair of inner faces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shigenori Hashida, Shintaro Kitakata
  • Publication number: 20170036697
    Abstract: A shock mount assembly for attachment to a vehicle frame and a vehicle rear axle, including a mounting beam attachable to the vehicle frame and having shock mounts that are attachable to shock first ends. Shock mount gusset plates provide an attachment point for shocks that extend to the vehicle rear axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Jared A. Hare
  • Publication number: 20170036698
    Abstract: A sub-frame structure includes right and left side members extending in a vehicle front-rear direction, and a rear cross member extending in a vehicle width direction. The sub-frame structure is configured to support a vehicle power plant such as an engine through antivibration devices, and to be supported by a vehicle body frame. The right and left side members are rigidly fixed to a vehicle body frame through bolts. A first antivibration device is mounted on a front cross beam. First bushes and second bushes are provided in order to support the front cross beam in a floating manner relative to the right and left side members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2014
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Masataka HIRANO, Tetsuya MIYAHARA
  • Publication number: 20170036699
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle frame structure including: a pair of right and left side rails; a cross member that bridges the side rails in the vehicle width direction; a bumper reinforcement that is placed on the front side of the side rails; load bearing portions that are disposed at vehicle width direction outer side surfaces of the side rails; curved portions that are disposed in the bumper reinforcement, curve toward the vehicle rear side heading outward in the vehicle width direction in sections of the bumper reinforcement at the vehicle width direction outer sides of the side rails; and projecting portions that are secured to rear surfaces of the curved portions of the bumper reinforcement, that project toward the vehicle rear side, that are placed with gaps between them and the load bearing portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Tetsuya ASAI
  • Publication number: 20170036700
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a floor panel, a door frame, a cross-member, and a load transmittal bracket. The door frame and the cross-member are fixed relative to the floor panel. The door frame defines a door opening. The load transmittal bracket is disposed between the door opening and the cross-member. The load transmittal bracket includes a second segment welded to a first segment and to the floor panel. During a side impact of the vehicle, the load transmittal bracket transfers impact force from the door frame to the cross-member to dissipate the impact force and reduce deformation of the floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Deepak Patel, Robert Schwalm, Stephen W. Siu, Greg B. Zinn, Djamal Eddine Midoun
  • Publication number: 20170036701
    Abstract: A vehicle side section structure including: a center pillar including an outer panel, an inner panel that forms a closed cross-section with the outer panel, and a reinforcement member that is provided inside the closed cross-section, that reinforces the outer panel, and that includes a main body section including a front wall, a side wall, and a rear wall and open toward the vehicle width direction inside, and a recessed portion formed between a front side ridgeline formed by the front wall and the side wall and a rear side ridgeline formed by the side wall and the rear wall and open toward the vehicle width direction outside; and filler material filled between the recessed portion and a facing face that faces the recessed portion, excluding at the periphery of the front side ridgeline and at the periphery of the rear side ridgeline of the main body section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicants: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, IIDA INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kenjiro YAMADA, Kenji TAKADA
  • Publication number: 20170036702
    Abstract: A system for adjusting a size of an access into a vehicle is provided. The system may include a pillar, which may be substantially vertical, and a track allowing the pillar to be moved. A latch may be attached to the pillar securing the pillar along the track. The pillar may be secured at one or multiple locations along the track. Multiple rolling mechanisms may be part of the pillar. These mechanisms may allow the pillar to glide back and forth enlarging or reducing the entrance into the vehicle from the front or rear entrances. The track may be interior to a front and rear door of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Shinji Maeshiro, James Hsin Yao Lee
  • Publication number: 20170036703
    Abstract: There is provided a vehicle body framework structure, the vehicle body framework structure including (1) a framework main body that is provided with a closed cross-sectional structure which is formed by joining together a first panel, and a second panel having less strength than the first panel, and (2) a cylindrical reinforcing member that is provided inside the framework main body and extends along the framework main body, a portion of the cylindrical reinforcing member that is located on the second panel side being formed thicker overall than a portion of the cylindrical reinforcing member that is located on the first panel side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hirokazu MAEDA, Yasuhide Matsuo
  • Publication number: 20170036704
    Abstract: A body structure includes: a bumper beam extending in the vehicle width direction; a pair of front side frames separated from each other in the vehicle width direction; and a pair of bumper beam extensions provided between respective front ends of the pair of front side frames and the bumper beam. The bumper beam is connected to the pair of bumper beam extensions at positions lower than respective upper walls of the pair of front side frames; and each of front portions of the pair of bumper beam extensions includes a connection portion to which a rear wall of the bumper beam is connected, and an extension portion provided above the connection portion and extending toward the vehicle front above the bumper beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Fumitoshi Kase, Yoichiro Hamano, Yasuyuki Shibata, Makoto Kihara, Misato Mineshima
  • Publication number: 20170036705
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a pair of side sills, a front floor panel provided between the pair of side sills, a floor tunnel and a cross member extending in a vehicle width direction at a rear end of the floor tunnel. The cross member includes a vertical wall. The vertical wall extends continuously in the vehicle width direction between the pair of side sills, is joined to the rear end of the floor tunnel, and closes an opening of the rear end. A partition portion partitioning an inside of the floor tunnel in the vehicle longitudinal direction and a connecting portion connecting a lower portion of the partition portion and a lower portion of the vertical wall are disposed in the floor tunnel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Yuki MURAMATSU, Hideaki YAMAGISHI
  • Publication number: 20170036706
    Abstract: A vehicle assembly is provided. The vehicle assembly includes a roof panel, a bodyside panel and a bolt. The roof panel and bodyside panel collectively form a roof ditch. The bolt includes a stud that has first and second distal portions. The first and second distal portions include first and second threaded portions, respectively. The first distal portion extends outwardly from one of the roof and bodyside panels and the second distal portion extending outwardly from the other of the roof and bodyside panels and into the roof ditch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Edgar Edward DONABEDIAN, Darrin Neil WAGNER, Azaz KHATRI
  • Publication number: 20170036707
    Abstract: Disclosed is a work vehicle in which a cabin is supported via an anti-vibration member to a bracket that extends to a vehicle body outer side from a vehicle body frame. The bracket mounts a weight member. The weight member is attached to a position in the bracket which position is on more outer vehicle body side than the anti-vibration member, with the weight member protruding to the vehicle body outer side from the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Makoto Shinohara, Yasunori Kobayashi, Yoshihisa Tahara, Ryuichi Inoue
  • Publication number: 20170036708
    Abstract: A motor vehicle (1) has a wheel arch (3), in which a wheel (4) is arranged, and has an air guiding apparatus (20) for guiding an air flow (8) that flows onto the wheel arch (3) during operation of the motor vehicle. The air guiding apparatus (20) is configured and arranged in such a way that a first part air flow (11) is guided past an inner side of the wheel (4) and a second part air flow (12) is guided past an outer side of the wheel (4). The two part air flows (11, 12) then are combined again behind the wheel arch (3) in a vehicle longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Kai Leibrandt, Emiel Burki, Jan Koerner, Gabor Herczeg, Michael Behr, Mitja Borkert
  • Publication number: 20170036709
    Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a vehicle aerodynamics control system for use with a vehicle. The vehicle can have a top side, a bottom side, a right side, and a left side. The control system can include at least one flow control actuator along at least one of the top side, the bottom side, the right side and the left side of the vehicle. The control system can also include a tuned surface configured to modify airflow in conjunction with the at least one flow control actuator. The tuned surface can be disposed along at least one of the top side, the bottom side, the right side, and the left side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Matthew L. METKA, James MCKILLEN, James W. GREGORY
  • Publication number: 20170036710
    Abstract: A diffuser arrangement (1, 101, 201) for a motor vehicle has an air inlet region (3, 103, 203) and a diffuser channel (2, 102, 202, 303, 403). A first adjustable control element (4, 104, 204, 301, 401) and a second adjustable control element (5, 105, 205, 302, 402) are arranged in the diffuser channel (2, 102, 202, 303, 403). The first adjustable control element (4, 104, 204, 301, 401) controls the air flow through the diffuser channel (2, 102, 202, 303, 403). The second adjustable control element (5, 105, 205, 302, 402) selectively blocks the air inlet region (3, 103, 203) of the diffuser channel (2, 102, 202, 303, 403).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas Weiss
  • Publication number: 20170036711
    Abstract: A motorcycle with a power unit for reducing the running resistance of a flow of air by effectively straightening the flow of air while ensuring the visibility of a tail light unit. The tail light unit emits light toward the rear of the vehicle and is arranged in a rear cowl which covers a rear part of the body frame at least behind an operator's seat. A straightening plate covers a rear part of a body frame F from below while allowing air flowing from a power unit to the rear to be straightened and discharged to the rear of the vehicle. The straightening plate is fixedly arranged below a rear cowl, which covers the rear part of the body frame from the side and above, behind an operator's seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takashi SHIGIHARA, Hirotsugu UENO, Toshiaki KISHI
  • Publication number: 20170036712
    Abstract: Improvements in a telescoping boom for towing with a 5th wheel for the telescoping boom to allow a single person to connect and transport two vehicles. The individual can drive the 5th wheel to the truck, connect the truck with the 5th wheel towing vehicle and drive both vehicles to another location over streets and highways. The telescoping boom mounts within the bed of the truck. The boom is adjustable with hydraulics that can change the angle of the boom relative to the bed of the truck. The boom provides the able to lift rear wheels of the truck that will be towed. The ability to lift the rear wheels allows the truck to be easily towed while the front wheels can freely turn to allow the truck to corner around turns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel Deardorff
  • Publication number: 20170036713
    Abstract: A frame assembly for a machine is disclosed. The frame assembly includes a first frame member having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a third surface defining a first through-hole extending between the first surface and the second surface. The frame assembly further includes a second frame member spaced apart from the first frame member, the second frame member having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a third surface defining a second through-hole extending between the first surface and second surface. The frame assembly further includes a first sleeve member inserted through the first through-hole of the first frame member. The frame assembly further includes a second sleeve member inserted through the second through-hole of the second frame member. The frame assembly further includes a roller unit disposed between the first frame member and the second frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: Caterpillar Global Mining LLC
    Inventor: Heidi R. Balestrieri
  • Publication number: 20170036714
    Abstract: A track system for an agricultural vehicle is configured to better perform when the vehicle is roading, including to reduce or minimize deteriorative effects on a track of the track system as the vehicle travels against a road's hard surface, especially at higher speeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Martin LUNKENBEIN
  • Publication number: 20170036715
    Abstract: A method of coupling a track shoe with a track link of a track assembly is disclosed. The track shoe defines a plurality of first openings. The method includes disposing the track shoe on the track link. The method includes disposing a plate member on the track shoe such that each of a plurality of second openings of the plate member is aligned with a corresponding first opening of the plurality of first openings of the track shoe. The plate member includes a retaining portion disposed adjacent to each of the plurality of second openings. The method includes inserting a fastening member through each of the plurality of second openings and the corresponding first opening. The method includes coupling, via the fastening member, the track shoe with the track link. The method further includes bending the retaining portion such that the retaining portion is disposed adjacent to the fastening member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventor: Eric J. Johannsen
  • Publication number: 20170036716
    Abstract: A lifting jack assembly for use on a walking machine to raise it off the ground and preselect a steering direction before the walking machine is lowered onto the ground for travel therealong includes a hydraulic power-driven lift cylinder for actuating an extendable/retractable rod, wherein the lift cylinder is rotatable about its vertical axis. A roller assembly is provided with rollers mounted to the rod. A foot plate mounted below the roller assembly engages the rollers, and a power-driven shifter mechanism mounted on the foot plate and connected to the roller assembly shifts the roller assembly along the foot plate. A linkage assembly interconnects the lift cylinder to the foot plate. A steering mechanism rotates the lift cylinder about its vertical axis to impart rotation to the foot plate and the roller assembly to orient and fix the direction of travel of the walking machine in a preselected direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: Columbia Trailer Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Ken Van Raden
  • Publication number: 20170036717
    Abstract: A work vehicle provided with a boarding section and an engine is disclosed. The boarding section is provided with a seat that allows an occupant to be seated thereon. The engine is located below the seat. A separator is provided to separate a foot space for an occupant and the engine from each other. The foot space is formed forward of the engine. The separator is provided with a radiator part formed therein. The radiator part is configured to radiate heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Wakabayashi, Kodai Tateishi, Yoshimi Hirooka, Kohta Nakao, Tatsuya Nagatomi
  • Publication number: 20170036718
    Abstract: A modular trailer with a fold-down configuration designed to be coupled to motor vehicles. It incorporates a main frame module, including a tow-bar assembly, two support brackets with retractable wheels and a self-supporting chassis to which supplementary modules can be attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: LITTLE WAY TEAM, S.L.
    Inventor: Jesús MarÍa SÁNCHEZ CABEZA
  • Publication number: 20170036719
    Abstract: A mirror mount that mounts a mirror to a vehicle fender. The mount can include a base that faces a vehicle fender exterior without extending upwardly and under a hood of the vehicle. A support arm extends from the base and includes a distal end that joins with a mirror. One or more pillars extend away from the base. The pillars can be sized and shaped to extend through holes in the fender to a frame member of the vehicle disposed inwardly relative to the fender. The pillars are associated with a fastener to join with the frame member so that weight of the mirror, the base, the support arm and/or the pillars are substantially born by the frame member. This can reduce transmission of vibration inherent in the fender to the mirror, and/or can rigidly and structurally connect the mirror to the frame member, rather than the fender.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher M. Dutton, Daniel L. Cook
  • Publication number: 20170036720
    Abstract: A vehicle body positioning and locking devices for use in assembling a vehicle body positioned on a movable vehicle support positioned at a vehicle build station. The locking device includes a remote vehicle locking device for selectively securing and locking a vehicle body to a support pallet. The support pallet is accurately and precisely positioned at a build station through alignment and inserting engagement of locating pads in at least one four-way and at least one two way receiver mounted to a build station foundation. A compliant body clamp design is included to provide a desired clamping force between the pallet and a vehicle body across a range of motion of the body clamp to accommodate vehicle build variances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Velibor Kilibarda, Michael R. Dugas
  • Publication number: 20170036721
    Abstract: A bicycle rack including a first opening which is dimensioned to receive a pedal axle of a bicycle and which first opening is elongated in shape and arranged to be at least substantially on a vertical plane, and a first end of the first opening is arranged to open sideways on the plane and its second end is arranged to open upward of the first end; a mating surface that is arranged at a first distance from the first opening and at least partly at the first opening, the first distance being dimensioned to receive a top part of the pedal crank of the bicycle; a boss space that is arranged below the mating surface to open in the same direction as the first end of the first opening, the boss space being dimensioned to receive a bottom part of the pedal crank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: PEDALSLOT OY
    Inventor: Juha RINNE
  • Publication number: 20170036722
    Abstract: An object management system and locking mechanism and method, such as may be used in a bicycle rental station. The system comprises a plurality of docking stations and a terminal connected to the docking stations by a network. At least one of the docking stations includes the locking mechanism for locking a connecting member secured to a bicycle or other object. The locking mechanism comprises a locking receptacle configured to receive the connecting member; a movable member positioned in the locking receptacle, the movable member having a lockable position and an unlockable position; and a locking member having a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking member is configured to secure the movable member, the movable member is configured to secure the connecting member, and the locking member is configured to rotate to switch between the locked position and unlocked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: 8D Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Raphaël Assénat, Jean-Sébastien Bettez
  • Publication number: 20170036723
    Abstract: A holding device for controlling a position of a shaft is disclosed. More particularly, embodiments of the holding device are incorporated in bicycles and bicycle components to control a height of a bicycle seatpost. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Barton
  • Publication number: 20170036724
    Abstract: A main body of a bicycle saddle includes an elastomer provided on a top surface thereof with a recess, a cover layer covering the top surface and having a concave area corresponding to the recess, and an auxiliary functional piece embedded in the concave area. The main body is manufactured by attaching a contacting surface of the cover layer to a mold cavity of a forming mold by vacuum suction to make a protrusion of the inner wall or a piece material glued to the contacting surface and including the auxiliary functional piece prop up the cover layer to form the concave area, forming the elastomer in the mold cavity, and embedding the auxiliary functional piece in the concave area or exposing the auxiliary functional piece on the contacting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Tsai-Yun YU
  • Publication number: 20170036725
    Abstract: The Motorcycle Operator Endurance Seat—Off Road (MOESOF) is a layered mesh like structure of straps that when installed over an existing off road motorcycle style seat provides additional width to better support a seated rider. The straps are spaced apart and attached together only at the points the straps cross each other. The middle layer of straps is sewn into loops that capture and hold two structural foam seating components, one each on the left and right. These cylinders are suspended alongside the sides of an existing motorcycle seat, the top of the cylinders roughly parallel to the top of the existing seat. When a load is applied by a seated rider the straps firm up under tension caused by the foam wanting to deform under compression. When not under load the structure articulates in place, deflecting out of the way from horizontal rider contact, returning when contact ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Mark Allen Campfield
  • Publication number: 20170036726
    Abstract: A smartwatch holder for accommodating a smartwatch at a bicycle, in particular at a handlebar or a stem, includes a fastening arrangement and a fixing arrangement. The fastening arrangement serves for fastening to a handlebar. The fixing arrangement includes holding elements which cooperate with wristband accommodation portions provided at a housing of the smartwatch for fixing purposes. An energy store, such as an accumulator, may be provided in a base element of the fixing arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Sebastian Fitz, Sebastian Wegerle
  • Publication number: 20170036727
    Abstract: A motorcycle with a reduced number of parts for a step structure to achieve a compact and simple structure. The motorcycle includes an engine main body of an engine, which exerts power for driving a rear wheel. The engine is mounted on a body frame with a main step on which a rider's foot is placed being supported on the body frame. An exhaust muffler, to which exhaust gas from the engine main body is introduced, is supported by a muffler stay attached to the body frame. A muffler stay, which is attached to attachment portions provided in a body frame above a main step, extends downwardly toward the rear from the attachment portions and functions as a heel guard for a rider placing his/her foot on the main step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takashi SHIGIHARA
  • Publication number: 20170036728
    Abstract: A wheel-securing axle secures a wheel to a bicycle body. The axle has a shaft and a one-way clutch mechanism. The axle includes a shaft that has a threaded section and a rotational center axis. The one-way clutch mechanism includes a lock member for contacting the bicycle body. The one-way clutch mechanism permits relative rotation between the lock member and the shaft in a first direction about the rotational center axis and limits relative rotation between the lock member and the shaft in a second direction. The lock member limits relative rotation between the shaft and the bicycle body in the first direction when the lock member contacts the bicycle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Jun NAKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20170036729
    Abstract: A bicycle wheel securing structure is basically provided with an axle member, a head member, a lever member and an adjusting member. The axle member is at least partially hollow, and includes a first end portion, a second end portion and a vehicle body engagement portion. The vehicle body engagement portion is provided to the second end portion for engaging a bicycle frame. The head member is disposed on the first end portion. The lever member is configured to turn the head member around an axis between a first position and a second position. The lever member presses the head member from the first end portion to the second end portion by being turned from the second position to the first position. The adjusting member is provided inside the axle member for adjusting an axial position of the head member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventor: Jun NAKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20170036730
    Abstract: This rear wheel suspension device of a motorcycle is disposed so as to be displaced to one lateral side relative to a center portion in the vehicle widthwise direction of the motorcycle. A main frame which forms the front half of a motorcycle frame structure has a single backbone frame extending from a head pipe rearward and obliquely downward in the center portion in the vehicle widthwise direction. A vehicle-body-side support member which extends in the vehicle widthwise direction is supported by a rear portion of the backbone frame. A one end portion of the rear wheel suspension device is rotatably supported by a right end portion of the vehicle-body-side support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Ryuji Kajio, Takeshi Kashihara, Krissana Niamsang, Sukda Sompun, Koichi Umehara
  • Publication number: 20170036731
    Abstract: This rear wheel suspension device of a motorcycle is disposed so as to be displaced to the right lateral side relative to a center portion in the vehicle widthwise direction of the motorcycle. A swingarm-side support member which extends in the vehicle widthwise direction is provided to a swingarm. An upper end portion of the rear wheel suspension device is rotatably supported by a main frame, and a lower end portion of the rear wheel suspension device is rotatably supported at a right end portion of the swingarm-side support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Inventors: Ryuji Kajio, Takeshi Kashihara, Krissana Niamsang, Sukda Sompun, Koichi Umehara
  • Publication number: 20170036732
    Abstract: A bicycle rim brake comprises a first shaft, a second shaft, a first brake arm, a second brake arm, and a reinforcing member. The first shaft includes a first fixed end part fixedly provided with respect to a bicycle body. The second shaft includes a second fixed end part fixedly provided with respect to the bicycle body. The first brake arm is pivotally provided on the first shaft around a first pivot axis. The first brake arm has an opposite surface opposite to the first fixed end part. The second brake arm is pivotally provided on the second shaft around a second pivot axis. The reinforcing member couples the first shaft to the second shaft. The reinforcing member is provided such that the first brake arm is at least partially arranged farther from the first fixed end part than the reinforcing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2015
    Publication date: February 9, 2017
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Tetsuya KAKIMOTO, Tatsuya MATSUSHITA, Masahiro NAKAKURA, Shinya HIROTOMI