Patents Issued in March 16, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170073971
    Abstract: A truss support system is disclosed. The system is comprised of a plurality of tubular truss sections configured for attachment to each other. Each of the sections has a plurality of polygonal shaped access slots surrounded by a plurality of bolt holes along each of its peripheral sides and on end-plates at each end of the truss sections. The end-plates of the system have additional bolt holes around the access slot compared to the number of bolts surrounding the access slots on the peripheral sides to provide for increased hold between end-to-end connections of truss sections. The truss sections of the system may be hinged together to compensate for uneven ground or for increased load supported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Carl Peltier
  • Publication number: 20170073972
    Abstract: A composite assembly includes a series of elongated layers joined lengthwise thereof. At least two of the elongated layers each have an upper elongated portion and a lower elongated portion secured together in an end-to-end relationship at a joint therebetween by a connector arrangement. The upper elongated portion is constructed of a wood material, and the lower elongated portion is constructed of a non-wood material. The lower elongated portion may have a reinforcing rod therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Jack Walters & Sons, Corp.
    Inventors: Fredrick R. Gilbert, Daniel Pederson, Andrew Pritzl, Caynen Klessig
  • Publication number: 20170073973
    Abstract: A roofing shingle has a shingle body with at least a top layer having a buttlap portion with a butt edge and a headlap portion. An exposure zone extends from the butt edge toward the headlap portion is configured to be exposed to the environment when the roofing shingle is installed on a roof. A shadow formation may be located in the exposure zone of the top layer. The shadow formation and the exposure zone differ from each other in at least one aspect, such as color. The top layer may be substantially rectangular and have no tabs formed along the butt edge. A thickness of the exposure zone and a thickness of the shadow formation may be substantially identical. The shadow formation may be a simulated cut out, slit or slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Robert L. Jenkins, Michael D. Shreve
  • Publication number: 20170073974
    Abstract: A retention apparatus, system and method for attaching a cross member with an anchor assembly to a latch assembly of a top block and clamp assembly secured to a wall, roof or other structure. The retention system is useful to prevent snow, ice and other objects from sliding off a roof. According to an exemplary embodiment, the retention apparatus and system may be secured to a standing seam on a metal roof to use an ice flag for retaining snow and ice between standing seams. The retention apparatus, system and method comprising a fastener securing a top block with a latch assembly to a clamp assembly attached to the standing seam of the metal roof. An cross member configured with an anchor assembly for operably connecting to the latch assembly of the top block by a ninety degree 90° straight-in approach to the latch assembly formed in the top block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: PMC Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Tamas KOVACS
  • Publication number: 20170073975
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an awning roller assembly are provided. The structure provides awning hardware (28) having a powered groove (52) extending through one or more hardware components. The powered groove includes at least one track (70, 72) having electrical conductors (84, 85) therein. An accessory base (54) is provided for connection with a plurality of powered accessories (32, 34, 36, 37), including but not limited to, lights, fans or audio-video equipment. The accessory base provides electrical connection between the powered groove and the accessory to provide improved function in the outdoor living space beneath and around the awning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Brent Alan Taylor, Clayton Hendry Meyers, Kent A. Becker
  • Publication number: 20170073976
    Abstract: A panel for a surface covering system of a plurality of like panels, the panel comprising: a base layer; a first joint extrusion attached along a first edge of the base layer; a second joint extrusion attached along a second edge of the base layer, opposite the first edge; a covering layer covering at least part of the first joint extrusion and at least part of the second joint extrusion; wherein the first extrusion is configured to join to a second extrusion of an adjacent like panel, and the covering layer substantially conceals the first extrusion and the second extrusion when installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Cameron David NELSON
  • Publication number: 20170073977
    Abstract: Aspects relate to improved floor boards. Certain embodiments may be laid and fixed without the need for fixing with adhesive or nails. Example floor boards are convenient for use and simple in structure, and after a decorative strip is adopted, it further has the advantage of good decorative effects. In one embodiment, a floor board includes a four-sided surface board connected to a four-sided base board. In one embodiment, positions of board-shaped hooking tongues on two edges of the base board body and positions of board-shaping hooking tongues on two other edges of the base board body are arranged in a staggered manner, and the positions of buckles on two edges of the base board body and the positions of buckles on two other edges of the base board body are arranged in a staggered manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: HONG KONG MEI LI SHENG FLOORING CO., LIMITED
    Inventor: Huanwen HUANG
  • Publication number: 20170073978
    Abstract: A processing facility for manufacturing integrated circuits on semiconductor wafers is provided with at least one radiation generator that generates an EUV (extreme ultraviolet) radiation that is supplied to at least one lithography machine, housed in a factory building, for exposure of the semiconductor wafers. The radiation generator is housed in a building or a building section separate from the factory building. At least one beam guide extends from the building or the building section to the factory building, wherein the EUV radiation is supplied from the building or the building section through the at least one beam guide to the factory building. At least one supply line branches off at an obtuse angle from the at least one beam guide inside the factory building, wherein at least a portion of the EUV radiation is supplied through the at least one supply line to the lithography machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Hartmut Schneider, Freyja Eberle, Steffen Köhler, Peter Csatary, Herbert Blaschitz
  • Publication number: 20170073979
    Abstract: A floor panel for forming a floor covering may substantially consists of synthetic material. The floor panel may have a decorative upper side that is formed at least by a decorative layer. The decorative layer may be in the form of a digital print.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: UNILIN, BVBA
    Inventor: Benjamin CLEMENT
  • Publication number: 20170073980
    Abstract: A foot mounted work accessory used in the installation of a flooring underlayer and associated electrical heating wire includes a substantially rigid base member including an upper surface and a lower surface with sidewalls extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. The base member further includes a first end having a forward edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces and a second end having a rear edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, first and second lateral edges extend between the upper surface and the lower surface along the left and right sides of the base member. An alignment channel is formed at a forward tip of the foot mounted work accessory. A foot strap is secured to the upper surface of the base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Tamas Szonok
  • Publication number: 20170073981
    Abstract: A machine for distributing loosefill insulation material is provided. The machine includes a chute having an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end is configured to receive compressed loosefill insulation material. A lower unit has a shredding chamber configured to receive the compressed loosefill insulation material from the outlet end of the chute. The shredding chamber includes a plurality of shredders configured to shred, pick apart and condition the loosefill insulation material. The shredders include a shredder shaft and a plurality of vane assemblies. The vane assemblies are oriented such that adjacent vane assemblies are offset from each other by an angle in a range of from about 45° to about 75°. A discharge mechanism is mounted to receive conditioned loosefill insulation material exiting the shredding chamber. The discharge mechanism is configured to distribute the conditioned loosefill insulation material into an airstream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: David M. Cook, Christopher M. Relyea, Brandon Robinson
  • Publication number: 20170073982
    Abstract: A machine for distributing loosefill insulation material. The machine includes a chute having an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end is configured to receive loosefill insulation material. The chute has a first portion in fluid communication with a second portion and forms an angle with the second portion. A shredding chamber includes a plurality of shredders configured to shred, pick apart and condition the loosefill insulation material. A discharge mechanism is mounted to receive the loosefill insulation material exiting the shredding chamber. The discharge mechanism is configured to distribute the loosefill insulation material into an airstream. A blower is configured to provide the airstream flowing through the discharge mechanism. The angle between the first portion of the chute and the second portion of the chute is configured to control the descent of the loosefill insulation material into the shredding chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: David M. Cook, Christopher M. Relyea, Brandon Robinson
  • Publication number: 20170073983
    Abstract: A device (1) for smoothing filling or plaster compounds and/or for spreading them by rubbing, comprising a smoothing plate (2) with a smoothing side (3) and a fastening side (4), a handle (5) and a holding element (6) which connects the handle (5) and the smoothing plate (2) on the fastening side (4), wherein the holding element (6) has a fastening flange (7) for fastening the smoothing plate (2), and a handle-fastening section (8), is intended to be improved in such a way that the handle is connected to the smoothing plate in a particularly stable manner without the weight of the device and the manufacturing costs being substantially increased. This is achieved in that the fastening flange (7) has a multiplicity of holes (9) into each of which there protrude fastening bolts (10) which project on the smoothing plate (2), said fastening bolts being fixedly connected to the smoothing plate (2) on the one hand and being connected to the fastening flange (7) by means of a pressed connection on the other hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: NELA GMBH
    Inventors: FRANK FREUDENREICH, DIRK NEDDERMANN
  • Publication number: 20170073984
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a container for parts of a shoring or scaffold system, the container comprising at least one mounting point for at least a part of the scaffold system, wherein in use, when the part is in its in use position, at least a portion of the part is engageable with the mount, and when the part is not in use, the container is adapted to carry the part. In use, the container is multipurpose, in that it is adapted to carry scaffold parts, or serve as a platform for the scaffold parts, or serve as a platform for the scaffold. When not in use, the container is adapted to be or be stored within the footprint of the scaffold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Emilio ROSATI
  • Publication number: 20170073985
    Abstract: A device for removing form ties from concrete. The form tie removing device includes a housing having an open first end and a second end, wherein the housing defines an interior volume that can receive a form tie. One or more apertures are positioned along the housing, wherein the apertures allow a user to view the position of the form tie within the interior volume of the housing. A tool bit extends from the second end of the housing, wherein a distal end of the tool bit can be inserted into a power tool, such as a rotary drill or impact driver. In use, a form tie is positioned within the housing and the tool bit is inserted into the power tool. Upon activation of the power tool, the housing rotates and releases the form tie from the surrounding area, such as concrete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Juette Deas
  • Publication number: 20170073986
    Abstract: Featured are devices and methods for positioning an anchoring device (e.g., bolt, stud) when cast in place in concrete so as to leave the anchoring device plumb. Such methods include securing one end of an anchor plumbing tool having a leveling mechanism to the anchoring device and manipulating another portion of the plumbing tool until the leveling mechanism indicates that the anchoring mechanism is plumb. Such methods further include positioning the anchoring device in cast in place concrete while the concrete is in its fluid state before set up occurs so as to leave the anchoring device in a vertical or perpendicular line relative to gravity. Such a plumbing tool includes a distal end portion that removably couples to an end of the anchoring device, the leveling mechanism and an upper portion that is usable to manipulate the anchoring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Gerald A. LaLiberte, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170073987
    Abstract: A production and sales environment is provided with production and sales separated on different levels, such that sales and delivery are contained on a main level and production is completed on a secondary level. Products are moved between the two levels via a mechanical delivery system, for example a dumbwaiter. Further, the production level is visible to the sales level allowing customers to view the production of their products. For example, the production and sales environment comprises a pharmacy, restaurant, coffee shop, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Donald W. Grove, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170073988
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement of cinemas in multiplex cinemas, comprising: at least one first row (1) of contiguous cinemas (1a) provided with a projection screen (P) and with stadium-type seating (G) arranged on an inclined surface (15). The cinemas (1a) of the first row have a trapezoidal layout with: a larger end (11) where the projection screen (p) is arranged, a smaller end (12), and two oblique sides (13, 14). The present invention also relates to an arrangement for a cinema room for a multi-screen cinema, in which each of the cinema rooms has a film projector (1), a screen (2) and tiers of seats (3) with multiple rows of seats (3a, 3b, . . . , 3n) arranged to different heights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Pere Maria Sallent Puigcercos
  • Publication number: 20170073989
    Abstract: The invention relates to an underwater cleaner (1), especially for a swimming pool, comprising a housing (2) in which an especially battery-powered pump having an electric motor (4) and an impeller (3) is arranged, wherein the housing (2) comprises an inlet opening (23) and an outlet opening (22) for a flow path, said flow path forming a first channel section (13) originating from the first inlet opening (23) and a second channel section (14) accommodating the impeller (3), wherein the second channel section (14) is arranged in an inclined manner in relation to the first channel section (13), and wherein the impeller axis (18) is arranged in an inclined manner in relation to a normal (24) to the opening cross-section of the inlet opening (23). The ratio A/B of a first cross-sectional surface A to a second cross-sectional surface B is less than 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Andrés Fränkel
  • Publication number: 20170073990
    Abstract: Power supplies for pool and spa equipment are disclosed. In one embodiment, the power supply includes a buoyant housing, a peripheral float, at least one solar cell positioned on the buoyant housing for collecting sunlight and converting same to electrical energy, and a power cable for interconnecting the power supply and pool/spa equipment. In other embodiments, first and second inductive power couplings are provided for powering pool and spa equipment. The power couplings can also be installed using existing plumbing features of the pool or spa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Potucek, Dennis Willis, Jeffrey Sumonthee, Benoit J. Renaud, Douglas H. Philhower, Patrick J. Forsythe, William M. Normyle
  • Publication number: 20170073991
    Abstract: Power supplies for pool and spa equipment are disclosed. In one embodiment, the power supply includes a buoyant housing, a peripheral float, at least one solar cell positioned on the buoyant housing for collecting sunlight and converting same to electrical energy, and a power cable for interconnecting the power supply and pool/spa equipment. In other embodiments, first and second inductive power couplings are provided for powering pool and spa equipment. The power couplings can also be installed using existing plumbing features of the pool or spa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Potucek, Dennis Willis, Jeffrey Sumonthee, Benoit J. Renaud, Douglas H. Philhower, Patrick J. Forsythe, William M. Normyle
  • Publication number: 20170073992
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an adapter for increasing exterior dimensions of a post mount support block includes a base having two sides that meet to form an angle of approximately ninety degrees, two legs, wherein each of the two legs extends from an outside edge of a different one of the two sides of the base, and two flanges, wherein each of the two flanges extends from an inside edge of a different one of the two sides of the base, such that each of the two flanges is positioned in a substantially parallel orientation relative to one of the two legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Steven J. Leary, Benjamin Yin, Zhang Qi
  • Publication number: 20170073993
    Abstract: A mount for a shade structure, in particular a collapsible pavilion. The mount has a base and a cover. The base has a space formed therein configured to receive a ground support of a shade structure. The cover has a top surface and a bottom surface to be secured to the base. A groove is formed in the mount and is configured to pivotably receive a rib. The groove is disposed between opposed walls of the mount. A pin retention recess is disposed on each side of the opposed walls in one of the cover and the base. A plurality of projections are provided that each have a first end fixed to one of the cover and the base in which the pin retention recess is not formed and a second end disposed away from the fixed end. One of the projections is configured to enclose a portion of the retention recess when the cover and the base are secured together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Oliver Joen-an Ma
  • Publication number: 20170073994
    Abstract: Various implementations include a fully collapsible and portable tent. For example, in various implementations, the tent includes a frame assembly that includes two or more frame members and two hubs spaced apart from each other. Ends of the frame members are coupled to the hubs. At least one of the frame members is pivotably coupled to the hubs via pivotable brackets. The pivotably coupled frame member pivot about a first axis extending through each end of the pivotably coupled frame member and the respective pivotable bracket, and the pivotable brackets pivot about a second axis extending through the pivotable bracket and the respective hub, wherein the first axis is spaced apart from the first axis. The pivotable brackets allow the tent to be moved between the collapsed and expanded positions quickly and with minimal effort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Jeff Allen, Thomas Patrick Powell, Jared Porteous, Jared Cassity, Christian Parris
  • Publication number: 20170073995
    Abstract: A sheeting clamp for a temporary structure includes a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate. The first clamping plate has a first channel parallel and a second channel. The second channel has a plurality of openings therein. The first plate also includes a first plurality of apertures proximal to the first channel and a second plurality of apertures proximal to the second channel. The second clamping plate has a first channel corresponding to the first channel of the first clamping plate, and a first plurality of apertures corresponding to the first plurality of apertures of the first clamping plate. At least one securing structure secures the first clamping plate and second clamping plate around a tubular structure around which a sheet is wrapped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Mathieu Grumberg, Frederick Warren Meade, Roy Scrafford
  • Publication number: 20170073996
    Abstract: A vinyl fence system for replacing an existing wood fence configured to be installed utilizing posts of the existing wood fence. The fence system includes vinyl post sleeves that are slipped over and cover the existing wood posts. The fence system also includes vinyl fence panels made of individual vinyl pickets connected along their lengths by connectors. The panels are configured to be locked together and surface mounted to the wood posts by fasteners, such as screws, passed through the vinyl fence panels and the vinyl sleeves and into the wood post. The fence panels configured to lock together using stiffeners positioned in horizontal rails located on the fence panels, with fasteners, such as screws, extending through the stiffeners, the rails, and into the boards of the panels. Decorative covers are utilized to cover joints and fasteners, and a top rail is located over the ends of the boards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Daniel Russo, Douglas Grant Wright
  • Publication number: 20170073997
    Abstract: A tool or extractor which is lightweight and portable. The tool includes a plate which is mountable to a mini-skid steer loader. The tool includes a first jaw member which is fixed. The first jaw member is preferably welded or otherwise attached to or engaged with the plate. The tool also includes a second jaw member. The second jaw member is moveable, such as via a hydraulic cylinder, and is pivotably connected the plate. The hydraulic cylinder is also preferably pivotably connected to the plate, and is controlled in order to affect a grip on a thing to be extracted. The mini-skid steer loader is then operable to pull up on the thing, and extract the thing from the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Bruce L. Masters
  • Publication number: 20170073998
    Abstract: A barrier latch assembly having a housing including a first locking element, a second locking element, a trigger and a swing plate. The swing plate is coupled to the trigger and to the first and second locking elements. When the trigger is depressed, the swing plate pivots from an unlock position to a lock position over a rear side of the first and second locking element thereby blocking and preventing the first and second locking elements from being depressed inward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Ruth Hsin-Ju FANG, Thomas Birkert, Stephen Kong, Stephen Chan
  • Publication number: 20170073999
    Abstract: A dual locking system including a combination mechanism and a key mechanism is provided, including a control plate to control access to the key mechanism. When the control plate is positioned in a blocking position, the control plate blocks access to the key hole of the key mechanism. The control plate can be released from the blocking position by turning the dials of the combination mechanism to the correct combination. The released control plate can be moved to an exposure position, which allows access to the key hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Karl LAI
  • Publication number: 20170074000
    Abstract: Example vehicle unlocking systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a method detects a vehicle access device within a predetermined distance of a vehicle and determines a geographic location of the vehicle. The method also detects a time of day and determines previous door unlocking behavior associated with the vehicle access device. A vehicle access point is selected for unlocking based on the geographic location, time of day, and previous door unlocking behavior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Harpreetsingh Banvait
  • Publication number: 20170074001
    Abstract: A cover is fitted to an aperture in an enclosure. A biasing mechanism is connected to the cover to mechanically bias the cover in an open position. An adhesive member is disposed around the aperture to retain the cover in a closed position against the bias of the biasing mechanism. A release mechanism effects release of the cover from the adhesive member by diminishing adhesion thereof in response to an open command signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Mark Alan HAGER
  • Publication number: 20170074002
    Abstract: A luggage tracking device (100), method and system. The luggage tracking device (100) includes a tracking device for capturing information, including location information received from a network and state information from at least one or more locks of an item of luggage. The luggage tracking device (100) may be configured for integration within the item of luggage. There is also provided a locking apparatus (300) for securing an item of luggage. The locking apparatus (300) has a locking element (304) which is movable between a first locked state and a second unlocked state. The apparatus includes a first locking means operable to control movement of the locking element. The apparatus also includes a first sensor (111) associated with the first locking means for detecting operation of the first locking means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Aaron Cooper
  • Publication number: 20170074003
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle lock arrangement for a vehicle door, comprising a vehicle lock with a lock element such as a pawl, at least one actuation lever to deflect the lock element and thereby to open the vehicle lock, at least one elongate force transmission element, which couples the at least one actuation lever to a respective door handle. At least one crash detection element in the form of an elongate force transmission element for the transmission of pulling forces is provided, which in the installed state extends through a part of the motor vehicle door and is coupled to a control mechanism, which control mechanism may be switched to a disabling state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: David Rosales, Stepan Hanke, Nathalie Westhoff
  • Publication number: 20170074004
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lock for a motor vehicle, comprising an external actuating lever (2), an inertial element (3), and a detent lever (4) which is preloaded by a spring element (6) and rotatably mounted on the inertial element (3), wherein said detent lever (4) is able to cooperate with a blocking contour arranged on a housing of the lock, wherein the external actuating lever (2) acts directly on the detent lever (4) and wherein a movement of the external actuating lever (2) can be blocked by an inertia of the inertial element (3) and the external actuating lever (2) cooperates with the detent lever (4) by way of a control contour (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Kiekert Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stephan Mittelbach
  • Publication number: 20170074005
    Abstract: An inertia locking mechanism for a bin having a bin lid and subjectable to an applied force resulting in an acceleration includes a housing attachable to the bin, a bracket attachable to the bin lid and having a locking feature, a locking pin, a biasing member, and a trigger. The locking pin is linearly moveable in the housing. The trigger has a triggering mass and is connected to the housing via a trigger pivot. The triggering mass is offset from the trigger pivot such that the triggering mass applies a torque to the trigger when the acceleration occurs in each of the front, rear, left, and right directions. The trigger is configured to release the locking pin when the acceleration exceeds a threshold acceleration such that the biasing member urges the locking pin into the locking feature of the bracket to lock the bin lid in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Douglas J. Amick, John T. Goscicki, Timothy A. Kiester, Kenton L. West
  • Publication number: 20170074006
    Abstract: A powered door latch may be actuated by a capacitive sensor or by movement of a mechanical release device. A controller may be utilized to prevent unlatching of the powered latch unless the vehicle is in Park and/or certain operating conditions are present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Rajesh K. Patel, Kosta Papanikolaou
  • Publication number: 20170074007
    Abstract: A closing and latching mechanism for a closure in which further rotation of an input shaft in a latching direction results in engagement of a release cam with a release cam follower and movement of a release slider which moves a pawl into a position in which a claw is free to move from a latched position to an unlatched position and the claw then moves towards the unlatched position under the action of a biasing spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: John Phillip Chevalier
  • Publication number: 20170074008
    Abstract: An e-latch assembly for a closure member and a method of operating the e-latch assembly coupled to a closure member are provided. The e-latch assembly includes an actuation group operable to selectively secure the closure member. An electronic control circuit is coupled to the actuation group and includes a control unit configured to manage a plurality of handle activation signals. The control unit is also configured to receive a plurality of signals indicative of the state of a vehicle. Additionally, the control unit is configured to control the actuation group to selectively allow the closure member to be opened in response to receiving the plurality of signals indicative of the state of the vehicle and based on the plurality of handle activation signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Marco Marlia, Marco Bartalucci, Claudio Cambini
  • Publication number: 20170074009
    Abstract: A touchless vehicle control apparatus includes an array of infrared light-emitting LEDs; an array of infrared light sensors for receiving reflected light from an object in accordance with a time sequence in which one or more of the infrared light-emitting LEDs is activated and outputting a plurality of reflected signals; and a processing unit for receiving the reflected signals, identifying a signal function of time by comparing a predetermined threshold with signal levels of the reflected signals, determining motion of the object by referring to the signal function of time, and directing the execution of one or more pre-defined vehicle commands when the determined motion of the object corresponds to a pre-defined motion associated with a vehicle command.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Charles Bruce Banter, Robert Bingle
  • Publication number: 20170074010
    Abstract: A helical gear actuator for use with a passage set or deadbolt set is provided. The helical gear actuator comprises a shaft including an at least one helical groove, a plunger and a receiver including two tracks, the receiver shaped to rotatably accept the shaft, the groove shaped to slidably accept the two tracks, such that in use, urging the shaft into the receiver effects rotation of the receiver relative to the shaft. Also provided are the passage set and the deadbolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: James OLSON
  • Publication number: 20170074011
    Abstract: A humanized convenient door lock includes a lock housing, a latch, a security hook, an outside handle operation mechanism, an inside handle operation mechanism, a cylinder driving mechanism, and an inside deadlocking rotary knob driving mechanism. The inside handle operation mechanism drives and controls the latch, the security hook, and the inside deadlocking rotary knob driving mechanism. To open the door, it only needs a one-time operation by pressing down a handle, thereby providing ease and convenience. The design is a humanized one, making it particularly suit for the needs of the disabled and the elderly and for urgent door opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Tung-Ming Chang
  • Publication number: 20170074012
    Abstract: A latch that is waterproof or water-resistant so as to resist the entry of water through the latch. The latch can be a slam latch having a pawl with a shaft. A sealing element, for example, a collar and/or an O-ring, can be placed around the shaft of the pawl to resist water from entering through the latch. The pawl can also enclose the cavity in which the latch handle is maintained so water cannot enter through the cavity. Other measures, such as a gasket and selective welding, can also be implemented to improve the water-resistance of the latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: GEM PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Stewart Onorato, Jason Sarnowski
  • Publication number: 20170074013
    Abstract: A door chain assembly comprising a chain and an anchor plate. The anchor plate comprises a back plate and a chain-receiving plate and the chain-receiving plate extends from the back plate. The chain-receiving plate is provided with an aperture and/or a chain-holding slot. The chain comprises a plurality of links with adjacent links being rotationally offset with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: Patrick J. Doherty
  • Publication number: 20170074014
    Abstract: A hinge assembly is disclosed that may include one or more leaves that can be connected to a panel. The hinge assembly may further include a barrel having a passage through which a pivot pin passes. A spacer is positioned in an opening between a first barrel section and a second barrel section. Bushings are disposed within the first and second barrel sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: James McInnis
  • Publication number: 20170074015
    Abstract: A breakaway gate assembly includes a hinge subassembly rotatably mounted to a vertical hinge post, and a gate subassembly removably mounted to the hinge subassembly. The gate subassembly includes a gate body and a plurality of standoff features coupled thereto. The hinge subassembly comprises a vertical mounting plate forming a plurality of apertures configured to receive and secure a respective plurality of standoff features. Each of the plurality of apertures comprises a wide portion for receiving a head portion of one of the standoff features, and a narrow portion below the wide portion for receiving a stem portion of a respective standoff feature to position a portion of the vertical mounting plate between the vertical mounting surface and the respective bearing surface. The hinge subassembly also comprises a plurality of hinge rings coupled to the first plate surface, the plurality of hinge rings rotatably disposed around the vertical hinge post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Robert Dean Batchelor, Benjamin Weston Seegars
  • Publication number: 20170074016
    Abstract: A constant force window balance assembly for a side-load, hung window is disclosed. A side rail of a window sash disposed in a jamb channel has a first opening. The balance assembly is installed in the jamb channel and engages the sash at the first opening to support the sash with a counterbalance force. A carrier of the balance assembly includes a body having a sash engaging seat located at an upper end that directly engages the first opening in the side wall of the side rail of the window sash. The carrier can also include a lip located at an inner side of the carrier and extending upwardly from the sash engaging seat. The carrier can also include a projection at an upper end of the body to engage a retaining aperture in an uncurled end portion of a curl spring in a pre-installed configuration of the window balance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Richard S. deNormand, Jay Sofianek
  • Publication number: 20170074017
    Abstract: According to the embodiments provided herein, a multi-axis hinge can include a fixed axis body and an articulating body. The fixed axis body and the articulating body can be in rotational engagement and can be configured to rotate with respect to one another around a hinge rotational axis. The fixed axis body can include a first pillar and a second pillar that extends away from the hinge rotational axis. The first pillar and the second pillar can each include a panel engagement member. The articulating body can include a first articulating pillar and a second articulating pillar that extends away from the hinge rotational axis. The first articulating pillar and the second articulating pillar can each include a door engagement member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Applicant: Buckhorn, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul J. Ficker
  • Publication number: 20170074018
    Abstract: An abutment element (B1, B2) is described adapted to be arranged on a profile (10) mounted on a furniture item, on the profile being able to slide a shock-absorber that is integral with a door and which is mounted to meet the abutment element to activate. The element has a portion (32, 52) slidably couplable to the profile so that the abutment element can slide on the profile without detaching; and a modifiable structure for creating a constraint to the sliding of the abutment element so as to make it integral with the profile. Thereby easy assembly and lack of screw-hole are assured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Guido BORTOLUZZI, Bruno SPONGA, Adriano GIROTTO, Lucio MOLINER
  • Publication number: 20170074019
    Abstract: A bi-fold door is opened with a lift assembly having a plurality of straps attached to power driven lift drums. A latch assembly retains the closed bi-fold door secure to side columns of a building. The latch assembly has a latch strap attached to a latch drum that accommodates the latch strap to hold the closed bi-fold door in contact with the side columns of the building. A floor anchor assembly anchors the bottom of the closed bi-fold door to the floor below the closed bi-fold door to stabilize and inhibit bending and deformation of the bi-fold door frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2016
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventor: MICHAEL L. SCHWEISS
  • Publication number: 20170074020
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for a vehicle side door motor includes an upper hinge element configured for receiving a side door motor drive shaft and a motor mounting bracket configured to receive the side door motor drive shaft and to allow a radial adjustment of the drive shaft for alignment of an axis of the motor with a side door hinge axis. The upper hinge element may define a clevis including a lower clevis portion having a motor drive shaft mounting aperture dimensioned to allow the radial adjustment feature. The motor mounting bracket includes one or more mounting apertures dimensioned to allow a vehicle fore/aft adjustment and in/out adjustment of the side door motor element. The motor mounting assembly is further configured to allow a vehicle up/down adjustment of the side door motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Publication date: March 16, 2017
    Inventors: Michael M. Azzouz, Larry Dean Elie, John Wayne Jaranson, Jeffrey A. Wallace, Timothy J. Potter, Gerald J. Heath