Patents Issued in March 16, 2017
-
Publication number: 20170072971Abstract: A light apparatus for use with a power source and a control switch, the control switch including an input node, an output node and at least first and second independently selectable current paths between the input and output nodes, the first selectable current path having a resistance value that is greater than the second current path, controlling light intensity as a function of which of the current path is selected, at least one light source, a controller linked to the control switch and determining the selected path and generating a control signal and a light driver linked between the output node and the light source, the driver receiving the control signal and adjusting the current applied to the light source as a function of the control signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Kevin McWithey
-
Publication number: 20170072972Abstract: A system for monitoring operation of a locomotive includes a plurality of cameras, a controller, and at least one graphical user interface (GUI). The cameras are strategically mounted to the locomotive such that each camera is configured to capture a video stream of an environment associated with the locomotive. The controller is remotely disposed from and communicably coupled to each of the cameras over a wireless network. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of video streams from the plurality of cameras. The graphical user interface (GUI) is communicably coupled to the controller. The GUI is configured to display the plurality of video streams received at the controller. In embodiments disclosed herein, the controller is operable for modulating various operating parameters of the locomotive based on the environment associated with the locomotive, as determined from one or more video streams transmitted by the cameras.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc.Inventors: Alexander Shubs, James David Seaton, David Matthew Roenspies
-
Publication number: 20170072973Abstract: Systems and methods using a controller and a graphical user-interface are provided for managing assets in a locomotive consist. Embodiments of the invention also provide asset management instructions embedded on a non-transitory computer readable medium for managing the assets by providing selectable options to a user for accomplishing wireless management of the assets in the locomotive consist.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc.Inventors: Alexander Shubs, David Matthew Roenspies
-
Publication number: 20170072974Abstract: An operating mode determining unit determines an operating mode of each of a plurality of vehicles to be either one of a normal operating mode and an energy saving mode on the basis of a necessary boarding and alighting time which is required to allow passengers to board or alight from the vehicles at each of a plurality of stations. An index value specifying unit specifies an index value on the basis of total energy consumption when the vehicles operate in the operating mode determined by the operating mode determining unit, a difference between the necessary boarding and alighting time and a boarding and alighting time, or the number of changing times of operating modes. An operating plan determining unit determines the operating mode of each of the vehicles to be an operating mode having a smallest index value.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2014Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Katsuaki MORITA, Hiroyuki KONO, Masaya MITAKE, Yasuyuki SUZUKI
-
Publication number: 20170072975Abstract: An apparatus for use with a railway safety system having a circuit for enabling and disabling a safety device when trains are approaching or within a railway crossing. The apparatus may include an override switch, a flag, and a light, and may generate a control signal received by and configured to override the safety device circuit. The flag and the light may indicate to approaching trains that the safety device of the railway safety system has been overridden.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Jared Martin, Steve Stanhope, Ron Peterson
-
Publication number: 20170072976Abstract: A dump cart includes a frame; a pair of wheels rotatably coupled to the frame by at least one axle; a bed frame pivotally coupled to the frame so that the bed frame may be pivoted relative to the frame between a lowered, hauling position and a raised, dumping position; a bed attached to the bed frame for receiving and hauling objects; a removable tow bar having a first end that may be attached to the frame and a second end that may be attached to a towing vehicle so that the towing vehicle may pull the dump cart; and a wheelbarrow attachment accessory that may replace the removable tow bar to convert the dump cart to a wheelbarrow.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: TODD FRANCIS DECHANT
-
Publication number: 20170072977Abstract: A barrow (1) includes a tray (2); one or more wheels (12); one or more removable handles (16), each including a first handle coupling (40); one or more leg units (15), each including a leg (17) having a folded position in which the leg is folded against the tray and an unfolded position in which the leg extends downwards from the tray; and one or more second handle couplings (41) each configured to couple with one of the first handle couplings (40) to attach one of the one or more removable handles (16) to the barrow; wherein attachment of the one or more removable handles (16) to the barrow locks the one or more legs (17) in the unfolded position. The barrow may be convertible between a barrow configuration and a trailer configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: Metal Technics LimitedInventor: Bernard Anton HIESTAND
-
Publication number: 20170072978Abstract: In general, the present invention provides a platform truck. More specifically, the present invention provides a platform truck comprised of a base member, a handle, a pair of swivel caster wheels depending from the bottom surface back end of the base member, a pair of swivel-lock caster wheels depending from the bottom surface front end of the base member, and a user-activated actuator assembly carried on the bottom surface of the base allowing the front swivel-lock casters to be switched between a unidirectional position and swivelable position to more easily negotiate tight turns and doorways is disclosed. Also included is a handle that is stowable within the base portion of the platform truck so that the platform truck may include one or two handles, whereby a handle may be included on one or both ends of the platform truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Robert G. Kopp, Michael G. Thuma, Michael R. Vogler
-
Publication number: 20170072979Abstract: Apparatuses for securing and transporting containers with lids is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a moveable can retaining arm for securing cans and a moveable lid retaining arm for securing the tops of cans. The apparatus further comprises wheels attached to the apparatus to make it mobile. The apparatus further may be extended to increase the number of containers it may carry.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Ed Mellon, Claudia Mellon
-
Publication number: 20170072980Abstract: A foldable infant walker includes a base, a front support, a rear support and a walker chair. Respective bottom ends of the front support and the rear support are disposed relative to the base and rotatably connected to the base. A front end of the walker chair is detachably connected to an upper end of the front support. Because the front support and the rear support can be turned relative to the base and then folded, the folded infant walker whose whole volume is largely reduced can be easy to carry, store and manage. The folding operation is also simple and convenient.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Gengyin Wang
-
Publication number: 20170072981Abstract: The invention relates to a buggy comprising an upper sliding frame and a lower sliding frame to which the front wheels are attached. In the upright driving position of the buggy, viewed in the side view, the upper sliding frame and the lower sliding frame are approximately aligned with one another. There is also a rear frame to which the rear wheels are attached. In the driving position, the buggy, viewed from the side, is oriented at an angle to the sliding frames, and the buggy can be collapsed about joints from the driving position into a transport position. Joint units, to which the respective end of a strut of the upper sliding frame facing the joint units and the respective end of a strut of the rear frame facing the joint units, are attached so as to be pivotable about joint axes, which are parallel to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Matthew Reichardt, Michael Downes, Chris Todter
-
Publication number: 20170072982Abstract: A lightweight collapsible stroller is provided. The stroller includes: a frame including a first portion movable relative to a second portion; a drive mechanism coupled to the frame, which moves the first portion relative to the second portion, thereby transitioning the frame between an open position and a closed position; and a latch mounted to the frame. The latch is positioned to engage at least a portion of the first portion or the second portion when the frame is in its open position to restrict the first portion from moving relative to the second portion. Upon actuation, the drive mechanism causes the latch to release, such that the first portion of the frame moves relative to the second portion of the frame, thereby allowing the frame to transition to the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Henry F. Thorne, Robert D. Daley, Frederick Karl Hopke, Justine Rembisz, John J. Walker, Elijah M. Wiegmann, Mary J. Koes
-
Publication number: 20170072983Abstract: A collapsible pushchair frame or doll's pushchair frame, includes: two lateral frame bars with push bars and front wheel arrangements on the frame bars; two lateral support struts, each of which is pivotably fastened, by a respective joint to a frame bar, at a distance from the lower end of the bar and which have bearings for rear wheels on their lower ends lying towards the rear in relation to the articulation points; and a seat insert or reclining insert. At least one stabilizing rod is designed as a safety rod and divided by a knee joint. An adjusting device includes an actuating element (21) arranged under the insert in the pushchair frame is coupled to at least one part of the at least one stabilizing rod, the actuating element being used to at least raise the corresponding front part of the stabilizing rod comprising the knee joint (18).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: JAN-STEFAN WUERSTL
-
Publication number: 20170072984Abstract: A steering wheel comprising a steering wheel rim (1) provided with an extended extremity (11), an operating part (2) provided on the radial inner side of the steering wheel rim (1), and an actuating rod (4) fixedly connected to the extended extremity (11). A central shaft (3) is extended from the bottom end of the operating part (2). The central shaft (3) runs through the extended extremity (11) and is inserted into a cavity provided by the actuating rod (4). A bearing component (5) is provided between the inner wall of the extended extremity (11) and the outer wall of the central shaft (3). By fitting the central shaft (3) with the bearing component (5), and by fitting the bearing component (5) with the extended extremity (11), separation of the operating part (2) and the steering wheel rim (1) is implemented, and the steering wheel rim (1) is allowed to be rotated around the central shaft (3).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2014Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Shugang GONG
-
Publication number: 20170072985Abstract: A steering wheel includes: a support member inserted into a bag holder of an air bag device; a cylindrical slider; an annular damper holder configured to cover a part of the cylindrical slider; and an elastic member including an annular elastic main body interposed between the cylindrical slider and the annular damper holder, wherein: the air bag device configured to act as a damper mass of a dynamic damper; the annular elastic main body configured to act as a spring of the dynamic damper; an annular gap is formed with the elastic member at a portion shifted in the axial direction from the annular elastic main body; and the elastic member further includes elastic restriction portions configured to fill the annular gap to restrict the elastic deformation of the elastic member at the multiple portions of the annular gap spaced from each other in the peripheral direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Tsutomu ISHII, Toshihito YANAGISAWA
-
Publication number: 20170072986Abstract: At least one of the vehicle body side through holes and the column side through hole is an adjusting long hole which is long in a direction in which a position of the steering wheel can be adjusted. A base end portion of the adjusting lever includes a lever side through hole penetrating through the base end portion in the width direction. The adjusting rod is press-fitted into the lever side through hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2014Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: NSK LTD.Inventors: Takayuki ISHII, Seiichi MORIYAMA, Shin MIHARA
-
Publication number: 20170072987Abstract: A steering column assembly includes a clamp mechanism comprising a clamp pin that passes through an opening in a shroud of the steering column assembly and an opening in a bracket that supports the shroud of the steering column assembly. A first reaction member is secured to one end of the pin and a second reaction member secured to another end of the clamp pin, the reaction members defining a length of clamp pin between them that passes through the opening in the shroud and the opening in the support bracket. A cam mechanism has a fixed part and a moving part, each having an opening through which they are threaded onto the clamp pin between one of the reaction members and the support bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: TRW LIMITEDInventors: Raghavendra DASADI, Slawomir KWASNY
-
Publication number: 20170072988Abstract: A steering shaft for a motor vehicle steering system may be used in connection with a variety of power assistance mechanisms. The steering shaft may comprise a first shaft part and a second shaft part that are rotationally-elastically coupled by way of a torsion bar. In order to transmit torque, the torsion bar may be received in a bore of the first shaft part and coupled to both the first and second shaft parts. In many cases, a first end of the torsion bar is coupled to the first shaft part, and a second end of the torsion bar is coupled to the second shaft part. The torsion bar may be mounted in the bore such that it can be rotated with respect to the first shaft part via a bearing element. In some examples, the bearing element comprises a prestressing element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicants: ThyssenKrupp Presta AG, ThyssenKrupp AGInventor: Joseph Léon STROBEL
-
Publication number: 20170072989Abstract: Disclosed is a foot-operated private vehicle, the vehicle including a chassis that extends heightwise along a vertical axis, the vehicle also including a front set of wheels mounted at the front of this chassis, a rear set of wheels mounted at the rear of this chassis, and a unit for controlling the speed and direction of the vehicle, taking the form of a right-hand pedal and a left-hand pedal, the private vehicle being characterized in that at least one pedal, known as the steering pedal, is mounted in a rotatable manner with respect to the chassis about a pivot axis parallel to the vertical axis of the chassis of the vehicle, a rotation of this steering pedal about its pivot axis being used to control the direction of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Aissam MOUJOUD
-
Publication number: 20170072990Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling the speed and direction of vehicles such as tractors.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Richard Ruebusch, Timothy M. Obrzut, Hans Hauser, Axel Schaedler
-
Publication number: 20170072991Abstract: If abnormalities of the sensor part are detected, the power-source control section temporarily stops the electric power supply from the sensor power source to the sensor part so that the sensor power source voltage Vs which is the voltage between the sensor power source and the sensor part falls. In addition, after electric power supply to the sensor part resumes, and the sensor part is recovered from the abnormalities, then, the power source control section continues the electric power supply from the sensor power source to the sensor part. When the sensor part is not recovered from the abnormalities, the power source control section stops the electric power supply from the sensor power source to the sensor part.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Katsuhiko Hayashi, Takaharu Kozawa, Shuji Kuramitsu, Kouichi Nakamura, Masaya Taki, Toshimitsu Sakai
-
Publication number: 20170072992Abstract: A steering shaft for a motor vehicle steering system may be used with a steering assistance means. The steering shaft may include an output shaft and a carrier that is connected rotationally conjointly to the output shaft. A worm gear toothing may be disposed on the radially outer region of the carrier. The worm gear toothing may comprise plastic and may form a worm gear for connection to the steering assistance means. Further, the carrier may be formed in one piece with the output shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicants: ThyssenKrupp Presta AG, ThyssenKrupp AGInventors: Ulrich Schlegel, Patrick Renggli
-
Publication number: 20170072993Abstract: A bearing for a ball screw drive may include a ball nut that is rotatable about a longitudinal axis and intended to receive a threaded spindle concentrically. The ball nut may be arranged in an inner ring and at least partially in an intermediate ring and an outer ring of the bearing. A belt pulley may be connected to the intermediate ring for rotation therewith, wherein an outer circumferential surface of the inner ring may be convex in some regions and an inner circumferential surface of the intermediate ring may be concave in some regions. The ball nut may be arranged in the bearing so as to be tiltable with respect to the belt pulley. The inner ring may be connected to the ball nut for rotation therewith and may be immovable in an axial direction. The intermediate ring may be connected via spring elements to the inner ring for rotation therewith.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicants: ThyssenKrupp Presta AG, ThyssenKrupp AGInventor: Gergely László
-
Publication number: 20170072994Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling an electric power steering system includes a torque sensor detecting an amount of torque applied by a user and an amount of change in torque based on rotation of a handle; an electronic control unit calculating an assist current value based on the amount of torque and amount of change in torque; and a motor receiving the assist current value to assist in steering of a vehicle, wherein the electronic control unit divides a steering state of the vehicle into a plurality of regions based on the amount of torque and amount of change in torque and applies different assist current values to the motor in accordance with the divided regions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Seongjoo KIM
-
Publication number: 20170072995Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus, without outside attachment circuit, that is capable of simultaneously sampling two phases of which the duties are not saturated and of cheaply detecting the 3-shunt currents by using two A/D converting units in correspondence to the duty saturation phase (the maximum phase) changing when the motor is rotated. The apparatus calculates a current command value due to at least a steering torque, performs a PWM-control of a 3-phase motor through an inverter based on the current command value, and assist-controls a steering system of a vehicle by detecting currents of the 3-phase motor and feed-backing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: NSK LTD.Inventor: Shin KUMAGAI
-
Publication number: 20170072996Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling an electric power steering system includes a failure detection unit detecting whether a torque sensor has failed; a first calculation unit calculating an absolute steering angle based on information detected by a motor position sensor; and a second calculation unit calculating an estimated lateral acceleration of a vehicle based on the absolute steering angle calculated by the first calculation unit and velocity of the vehicle received from a velocity sensor, wherein, if a failure of a torque sensor is detected by the failure detection unit, an assist current value is applied to the motor based on the estimated lateral acceleration of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Seunggyu HONG, Seongjoo KIM
-
Publication number: 20170072997Abstract: A power steering system of a vehicle and a control method are provided. The integrated power steering system reduces the number of components, manufacturing costs, and power loss of a vehicle using components together, such as a hydraulic pump, a controller, and a control valve, used in an emergency steering system and a rear wheel steering system. The system includes a main hydraulic motor that receives engine power and generates a hydraulic pressure and an auxiliary hydraulic motor that generates a hydraulic pressure. A front wheel steering cylinder receives hydraulic pressure and generates power for steering front wheels and auxiliary steering of a driver and a rear wheel steering cylinder receives hydraulic pressure and generates power for steering rear wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Seung Hyun Oh
-
Publication number: 20170072998Abstract: A steering system for a vehicle includes a fluid pump, an actuator in selective fluid communication with the fluid pump, a hydrostatic steering system and an electro-hydraulic steering system. The hydrostatic steering system includes a fluid controller having a first proportional valve in fluid communication with the fluid pump and a fluid meter in fluid communication with the first proportional valve and the actuator. The electro-hydraulic steering system includes a second proportional valve in selective fluid communication with the fluid pump and the actuator. The second proportional valve is disposed in parallel to the first proportional valve. The electro-hydraulic steering circuit further includes a load-reaction switching valve assembly disposed in series with the first proportional valve of the hydrostatic steering system. The load-reaction switching valve allows fluid communication between the actuator and the fluid controller when the first proportional valve is in a neutral position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Aaron Kelly KRAHN
-
Publication number: 20170072999Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling steering of an industrial vehicle includes a wheel angle detector, a travel determining device, and a control calculation device that calculates a wheel angle average and a maximum variation of wheel angle in the specified period and learns a reference steering limit angle. The control calculation device determines that the steerable wheel is in a steering limit state if an actual traveling speed is maintained at the specified speed or higher for the specified period of time or longer, the average wheel angle in the specified period of time is at a specified angle or greater, and the maximum variation of wheel angle in the specified period of time is at a specified value or less. The control calculation device renews the reference steering limit angle if the steerable wheel is determined to be in the steering limit state.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKIInventors: Gouki KAWAGUCHI, Norihiko KATO, Hitoshi FUKUOKA
-
Publication number: 20170073000Abstract: A steering system is provided which more appropriately alleviates driver's discomfort in the wrists. A steering ECU has an estimated grip angle calculating circuit, a deviation calculating circuit, an automatic steering torque command value calculating circuit, and a grip angle command value calculating circuit. The estimated grip angle calculating circuit calculates an estimated grip angle based on a steering angle. The deviation calculating circuit calculates a deviation based on the steering angle, a steering angle deviation, and the estimated grip angle. The grip angle command value calculating circuit calculates a grip angle command value that is a sum of a grip angle and the deviation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATIONInventors: Kazushi NUMAZAKI, Ryouhei HAYAMA, Hideyuki MUKAE
-
Publication number: 20170073001Abstract: A vehicle steering system includes a higher-level ECU and a lower-level ECU. The lower-level ECU includes a steered angle limit setter, and steered angle limiters. The steered angle limit setter sets an allowable upper limit to a target inner and outer wheel steered angle difference responsive to the absolute value of a target outer steered angle. The steered angle limit setter calculates a limit to the absolute value of a target inner steered angle. The steered angle limit setter subsequently sets this limit for one of the steered angle limiters that is fed the target inner steered angle in the present calculation cycle. The limiter, which is fed the target inner steered angle, limits the absolute value of the target inner steered angle so that the absolute value of the target inner steered angle is equal to or below the limit, and outputs the resulting value.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATIONInventor: Toshiaki OYA
-
Publication number: 20170073002Abstract: A method of controlling a steering device including a pair of rack bars capable of steering right and left wheels in one and/or the other of opposite right and left directions, and a coupling mechanism which moves the rack bars in the right direction and/or the left direction by the same distance. The method includes issuing a command to couple or uncouple the coupling mechanism, and driving at least one of an engaging part and a receiving part of the coupling mechanism relative to the other if a coupling state sensor are unable to detect that the coupling mechanism has been coupled or uncoupled when a predetermined time has passed after issuing the command.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: NTN CORPORATIONInventor: Kazuyuki INOKUCHI
-
Publication number: 20170073003Abstract: The present invention is a guidance computing system used by the driver of a vehicle towing a trailer while backing-up that rapidly calculates and predicts the direction in which the tow vehicle and trailer will become generally in-line for a given position of the steering wheel, thereby enabling the use of slower, lower cost microcomputers. This is accomplished by using a predetermined table, based on a baseline trailer of known length, having a measure of turning as one of its axes; such an axis is necessary to facilitate ratiometric scaling to convert table values to correspond to any length trailer. In a specially equipped vehicle incorporating servomechanisms to enable the vehicle to steer itself, the driver indicates the direction desired for the trailer to travel. The present invention also predicts left and right path limits for controlling the direction of the trailer when maneuvering complex paths.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Daniel Robert Shepard, Britta Shepard
-
Publication number: 20170073004Abstract: The present invention relates to display means for systems for guiding a trailer while backing, and in particular to graphical display means to provide information to an operator who is steering, and controlling the accelerator and breaks by suggesting the amount of steering to apply to the towing vehicle to cause the trailer to be directed to where the operator wants the trailer to go.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Daniel Robert Shepard
-
Publication number: 20170073005Abstract: A guidance system for a vehicle reversing a trailer is provided. The system includes a display and a controller configured to generate a steering icon on the display. The steering icon recommends a steering direction and a steering magnitude related to a steering device of the vehicle in order to correct a deviation from an intended backing path.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Maher Ghneim, Yasmin Jawad, Marcus McKinney
-
Publication number: 20170073006Abstract: A vehicle behavior detection device mounted on an own vehicle detects own vehicle's behavior, in particular driver's right or left turn behavior at an intersection on a roadway. The vehicle behavior detection device is a microcomputer system having a CPU capable of providing an intended direction acquiring section, a turn direction acquiring section, a coincidence judgment section and an information output section. The intended direction acquiring section obtains an intended direction toward which the own vehicle is turning. The turn direction acquiring section acquires a direction to which the own vehicle turns. The coincidence judgment section detects whether or not the intended direction coincides with the turn direction of the own vehicle. The information output section provides warning regarding wide right or left turn of the own vehicle when the judgment result indicates that the intended direction does not coincide with the turn direction of the own vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Shota Satomura
-
Publication number: 20170073007Abstract: A cruise-assist image generation device includes: a steering-angle information acquisition unit acquiring steering angle information of a steering wheel; an additional line generation unit generating a cruise assist additional line corresponding to the acquired steering angle information and formed by combination of a given number of segments; and an additional line superimposing unit superimposing the generated cruise assist additional line on a taken image of the vehicle periphery to obtain a composite image.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Eiji Oba
-
Publication number: 20170073008Abstract: The present invention describes an enclosed structure to a 3 wheeler vehicle to provide crash-worthiness (i.e. protection in case of vehicular crash). The structure is further integrated into a crash protection system that absorbs and diverts the crash forces away from it's occupants thus reducing chance of injury and harm to its occupants.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Mandar Padhye
-
Publication number: 20170073009Abstract: A releasable joint configured to attach a cradle to an underbody of a vehicle subjectable to an external force includes a fastener, an attachment portion of the cradle, and a partial sleeve. The fastener attaches the cradle to the underbody. The attachment portion of the cradle encircles the fastener and includes a breakaway portion that fractures when the external force exceeds a threshold force. The partial sleeve is attached to and disposed within the attachment portion of the cradle and partially encircles the fastener so as to form an opening that provides a horizontal pathway for the fastener to move through to exit the cradle when the breakaway portion fractures. The cradle may separate from the underbody at the releasable joint with no vertical motion of the cradle relative to the underbody when the external force exceeds the threshold force.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Balbir S. Sangha, Zohir Molhem, Frederick M. Marquardt, Munho Kim
-
Publication number: 20170073010Abstract: A structural beam component for a vehicle comprises: a beam body that has an I-section for at least part of its length, the beam body having first and second sides opposite each other, wherein the I-section extends at least partially along the first and second sides; a crash rail attachment at one end of the beam body, the crash rail attachment providing a fore-aft backup structure for a crash rail in the vehicle; another attachment at an opposite end of the beam body, the other attachment connecting the structural beam component to a side sill of the vehicle; and first and second ribbing on the first and second sides, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Luis E. ALANIS, Hussein SANAKNAKI
-
Publication number: 20170073011Abstract: A vehicle front section structure including: a front side member that includes an inside sidewall portion; a first wall portion that configures part of a power unit support section, and that is joined to the inside sidewall portion by a first join portion; a second wall portion that configures part of the power unit support section, and that is joined to the inside sidewall portion by a second join portion; and a low rigidity portion of the inside sidewall portion that is disposed at another side in a vehicle front-rear direction, and the vehicle lower side, of the first join portion, that is disposed further toward one side in the vehicle front-rear direction than the second join portion, and that has lower rigidity than a portion of the inside sidewall portion further toward the one side in the vehicle front-rear direction than the first join portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Chitoshi SUGANO
-
Publication number: 20170073012Abstract: A vehicle framework structure includes a tunnel, a pair of rockers, a dash cross-member, a front side member rear and a floor reinforcement. The tunnel is disposed at a vehicle width direction central portion of a floor panel of a vehicle. The rockers are disposed at each vehicle width direction outer sides of the floor panel. The dash cross-member connects front portions of the rockers with the tunnel. A front side member is disposed at the vehicle front-and-rear direction front side of the floor panel. The front side member rear is provided under the floor panel at the vehicle front-and-rear direction rear side of the front side member. A vehicle front-and-rear direction front portion of the floor reinforcement is disposed between the dash cross-member and the floor panel, and the floor reinforcement is joined to the floor panel and to the front side member rear.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Atsumi HYUGA, Kenichiro YOSHIMOTO, Junichi TAKAYANAGI
-
Publication number: 20170073013Abstract: The present disclosure provides a vehicle body front portion structure including: a front side member main body to which a bead is formed at rear portion of an outer-side side wall portion, and is joined to a front side member base portion such that the front side member base portion covers a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the front side member main body located at vehicle body rear side of the bead. Abutting ribs extending in vehicle body front-rear direction are provided at a portion of the front side member base portion. The abutting ribs include a front-side extended portion located at a side portion of the bead and extends towards vehicle body front side beyond a portion that protrudes in vehicle body transverse direction, and include an abutting portion that faces towards vehicle body front side.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Takashi Sasaki
-
Publication number: 20170073014Abstract: A collision energy absorbing assembly for a land vehicle includes first and second frame rails and a powertrain having an engine and a transmission. The powertrain is disposed between the rails such that the powertrain is spaced apart from the rails. The vehicle also includes an energy-transfer element attached to an inner side of the first rail or powertrain to reduce a spacing between the powertrain and first rail thereby increasing a cross-car load transfer during a collision.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Jamil M. ALWAN, Jayanth Kumar BASAVALINGIAH, Matthew B. MAKOWSKI
-
Publication number: 20170073015Abstract: A rear side member mounted to extend from both sides of a latter half portion of a vehicle body toward a rear of the vehicle is provided. In particular, the rear side member includes fuel tank sections formed as a foremost portion that corresponds to a position of the fuel tank, and rear subframe sections that extend toward a rear of the fuel tank sections and that correspond to a position of a rear subframe. Tire well sections extend backward from the rear subframe sections and correspond to a position of a tire well. Further, the thicknesses of members of the fuel tank sections, the rear subframe sections, and the tire well sections are different.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Deok Hwa Hong, Hee Seouk Chung
-
Publication number: 20170073016Abstract: The configuration of a vehicle side structure according to the present invention is characterized by including an upper pillar reinforcing member that forms an upper edge of a front door opening of a vehicle, a pillar hinge reinforcing member that forms a front edge of the front door opening, and a side sill strengthening member that forms a lower edge of the front door opening, wherein the pillar hinge reinforcing member has a hinge bulged portion that is bulged toward the vehicle exterior, along a vertical direction, the hinge bulged portion has at least one ridge line that is curved so as to protrude toward the vehicle front side, and the at least one ridge line links a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the upper pillar reinforcing member and a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the side sill strengthening member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2015Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventor: Takuya HIRATA
-
Publication number: 20170073017Abstract: A B-pillar for a motor vehicle body has an inner panel made of sheet metal material and a multi-component outer panel connected to the inner panel. The outer panel comprises a lower formed part made of sheet metal material and an upper formed part made of fibre reinforced plastic, which two formed parts are arranged along a region of overlap so as to overlap one another and are connected to one another such that the lower formed part projects from the upper formed part beyond the upper formed part beyond the region of overlap in a first direction of longitudinal extension of the B-pillar and that the upper formed part projects from the lower formed part beyond the region of overlap in a second direction of longitudinal extension of the B-pillar.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Inventors: Hubertus Steffens, Bernhard Spielvogel
-
Publication number: 20170073018Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle front section structure including: a side member front that is configured by a high tensile steel sheet, and has a closed cross-section; a side member rear that is configured by a high tensile steel sheet, and has a U-shaped cross-section open toward the upper side; a bracket that is disposed outside the closed cross-section of the side member front and inside the U-shaped cross-section of the side member rear, and has a first bottom wall that bends from a second bottom wall of the side member rear along a third bottom wall of the side member front; a first coupling portion that couples together the third bottom wall of the side member front and the first bottom wall of the bracket; and a second coupling portion that couples together the second bottom wall of the side member rear and the first bottom wall of the bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hyuga ATSUMI, Junichi Takayanagi, Kenichiro Yoshimoto
-
Publication number: 20170073019Abstract: A vehicle body rear structure includes a floor brace extending outward in a vehicle width direction in an inclined manner from a front floor, and a rear brace extending inward in the vehicle width direction in an inclined manner from a rear end portion of the floor brace. A rear end portion of the rear brace is connected with a support bracket. A front end portion of the rear brace and the rear end portion of the floor brace are connected with a left rear frame via a connecting member. The floor brace and the rear brace are arranged in a substantially V-shape in plan view.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2016Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Shohei KABAYAMA
-
Publication number: 20170073020Abstract: In a body structure of an automobile, a floor panel having a sandwich structure in which a core is sandwiched between and joined to an outer skin and an inner skin, which are made of a CFRP, and a first load-dispersing frame extending in the fore-and-aft direction along a side sill is disposed between an energy-absorbing member and the core. A locally concentrated load inputted into the side sill is absorbed by crumpling of the energy-absorbing member of the interior of the floor panel beneath the side sill and then widely dispersed through the floor panel further inside in the vehicle width direction than the side sill by the first load-dispersing frame, and local destruction of the floor panel further inside in the vehicle width direction than the side sill is inhibited. Furthermore, by increasing bending stiffness of the first load-dispersing frame, to reduce the sheet thickness of the CFRP outer and the inner skins, a light weight is achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2014Publication date: March 16, 2017Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shotaro AYUZAWA, Yuta URUSHIYAMA, Takahira KAWATA