Patents Issued in April 13, 2017
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Publication number: 20170100966Abstract: A pneumatic tire includes a tread having a tread surface, circumferential main grooves on the tread, and land portions formed between the circumferential main grooves. Each of the circumferential main grooves has, in a lateral cross-sectional view, a groove bottom surface, an outside groove wall surface, an inside groove wall surface, an outside curved portion connecting the groove bottom surface with the outside groove wall surface, and an inside curved portion connecting the groove bottom surface with the inside groove wall surface. In the lateral cross-sectional view, (a minimum curvature radius of the outside curved portion)>(a minimum curvature radius of the inside curved portion) is satisfied. (the groove wall angle ? [between a tread normal line and the outside groove wall surface])<(the groove wall angle ? [between a tread normal line and the inside groove wall surface]) is satisfied.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATIONInventors: Ietomo MATSUNAGA, Tadashi WAKIYAMA
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Publication number: 20170100967Abstract: A winter tire includes a tread portion with a ground contact surface. The ground contact surface of the tread portion is provided with a recess. The recess is provided with a hole for fixing a stud pin and at least one projection extending radially outwardly and arranged at a location apart from the hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Shotaro ABE
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Publication number: 20170100968Abstract: This technical solution relates to Racing Tires of the type “Slick” with a Wear Indicator coated onto a tire providing visual determination of its wear rate. The technical solution is presented as a racing slick type tire with a colored pigment coated on its surface which is a wear indicator in the shape of lines (any geometrical shapes). The wear indicator is coated with several layers; each layer varies in color depending on the tire wear depth. The claimed tires provided with a wear indicator are designed for car racing including race open wheel cars (karting and Formula car racing); the indicator can be monitored by a driver which allows estimation of the tire wear rate while a car is moving.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Dmitrij Aleksandrovich Lebedev
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Publication number: 20170100969Abstract: A run-flat radial tire having a tire cross-section height of 115 mm or greater including: a carcass spanning between a pair of bead portions; a vehicle mounting direction outer side side-reinforcing rubber layer that is provided to a tire side portion at a vehicle mounting direction outer side and that extends in a tire radial direction along an inner face of the carcass; and a vehicle mounting direction inner side side-reinforcing rubber layer that is provided to a tire side portion at a vehicle mounting direction inner side and that extends in the tire radial direction along an inner face of the carcass, a tire radial direction outer side end portion of the vehicle mounting direction inner side side-reinforcing rubber layer being closer to a tire equatorial plane than a tire radial direction outer side end portion of the vehicle mounting direction outer side side-reinforcing rubber layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATIONInventor: Masafumi YOKOYAMA
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Publication number: 20170100970Abstract: A writer for a tire pressure sensor is disclosed, which is adapted to hold the tire pressure sensor to write a program to the tire pressure sensor. The tire pressure sensor has a first connection port. The writer includes a housing, a positioning member, and an ejection device. A surface of the housing forms a receiving recess, and a second connection port is provided in the receiving recess. When the tire pressure sensor is received in the receiving recess, the first connection port thereof is connected to the second connection port. The positioning member connected to the housing has a block section abutting against the tire pressure sensor to keep the first connection port being connected to the second connection port. The ejection device is adapted to exert a pushing force on the tire pressure sensor to eject it for separating the second connection port from the first connection port.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Ming-Hung HSU, Chia-Chang WU
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Publication number: 20170100971Abstract: Machine for unseating a tire bead from a wheel, comprising a stand designed to rest on the ground, a bearing plate for the wheel, and a bead unseating tool which is connected to a tool bearing structure mobilely mounted to the stand. The machine comprises a pneumatic actuator for setting the tool bearing structure in motion in order to operate the tool, and a shock absorber connecting the tool bearing structure to the stand in order to damp the movement of the tool bearing structure, particularly at the moment at which the tire bead unseats from the rim of the wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Bertrand du Quesne, Francis du Quesne
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Publication number: 20170100972Abstract: A kingpin adapter is provided having an upper wall and a lower wall that are affixed to each other through side walls. The upper and lower walls have a kingpin aperture and a hitch ball aperture that is spaced from and parallel to the kingpin aperture. The kingpin aperture receives a kingpin and the adapter is affixed to the kingpin using pins that extend through the side walls and extend through a portion of the undercut in the kingpin. The upper wall has jack screws that extend through to contact a skid plate that is affixed to the kingpin. The jack screws affix optional adjustable fences that rotationally constrain the skid plate by contacting lateral edges of it.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Pulliam Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Randall A Pulliam, James M. Karasch
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Publication number: 20170100973Abstract: A universal trailer lock including an upper housing, a lower housing, a lock barrel set and a latch. A limit separator is further included, wherein the limit separator is provided to embed into a limiting groove of the upper housing. By the composition of above structure, the universal trailer lock may applied to trailer couplers with different specifications for effectively prevent trailers from being stolen.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Chin-Hui TSAI
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Publication number: 20170100974Abstract: In one embodiment, a hitch system, comprising: an upper support structure comprising a first pivot mount at one end of the upper support structure and a second pivot mount at the other end of the upper support structure; a lower structural assembly comprising a base having a third pivot mount at one end of the base and a fourth pivot mount at the other end of the base, the lower structural assembly further comprising first and second lift arms pivotably connected respectively to the third and fourth pivot mounts; and first and second actuators each comprising a retractable member and independently operable, the first actuator pivotably connected at one end of the first actuator to the first pivot mount and pivotably connected at the other end of the first actuator to the first lift arm, the second actuator pivotably connected at one end of the second actuator to the second pivot mount and pivotably connected at the other end of the second actuator to the second lift arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Evan Thomas Smith
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Publication number: 20170100975Abstract: A vehicle includes a magnetic switch and a controller. The magnetic switch is coupled with a trailer connection receptacle housing and aligned with a magnet in a cap of the housing while closed. The controller is configured to, in response to detecting an open position of the cap based on a state of the magnetic switch, periodically supply a voltage pulse less than an operating voltage across contacts of the housing to detect continuity therebetween. The controller is further configured to, in response to detecting a closed position of the cap, inhibit the voltage pulse. The magnetic switch may be a reed switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: J. Elias Ruiz
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Publication number: 20170100976Abstract: An axle/suspension system tower mount for a heavy-duty vehicle which mounts a force reacting suspension component attached to the vehicle frame members to the axle of the axle/suspension system. The tower mount includes an axle wrap system which attaches the tower mount to the axle of the axle/suspension system at a location inboard of the axle/suspension system suspension assemblies. The axle/suspension system tower mount provides mounting support for components of an air brake system, including cam shaft assemblies, brake air chambers, and mounting brackets thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Damon Elwood Dilworth, Michael Paul Bloink, Matthew Edward Michael DiCianni, Jay D. White
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Publication number: 20170100977Abstract: A fastening shackle for fastening a leaf spring to a vehicle body of a vehicle includes: a first bearing end which can be fastened to the vehicle body, a second bearing end, and a shackle body connecting the first bearing end and the second bearing end. The first bearing end has an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve and a sleeve-shaped plastic plain bearing, the sleeve-shaped plastic plain bearing being arranged in the outer sleeve and being slidably mounted in the outer sleeve, and the inner sleeve being affixed to the sleeve-shaped plastic plain bearing. The leaf spring is mountable at the second bearing end.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Rodscha Drabon, Torsten Howe, Dirk Rochell
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Publication number: 20170100978Abstract: A vehicle suspension damper includes: a cylinder and a piston assembly, wherein the piston assembly includes a piston; a working fluid within the cylinder; a bypass cylinder surrounding the cylinder and defining a cylindrical bypass channel; an adjustable bypass port fluidly coupling an interior of the cylinder and the cylindrical bypass channel; and a remotely operable bypass valve slidably disposed within the cylindrical bypass channel, the remotely operable bypass valve configured for, upon actuation of an actuator coupled with the remotely operable bypass valve, adjusting a flow of the working fluid through the adjustable bypass port.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Fox Factory, Inc.Inventor: John MARKING
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Publication number: 20170100979Abstract: A method for operating a rotation damper for a motor vehicle which has an electric generator with a stator and a rotor includes detecting with a direction of rotation detection module a change of a direction of rotation of the rotor relative to the stator between a first direction of rotation and a second direction of rotation which is opposite to the first direction of rotation; generating with the direction of rotation detection module a signal indicative of an actual direction of rotation of the rotor relative to the stator; and as a function of the signal conducting an electrical current converted by the electric generator to a first electrical load having a first resistance value when the rotor rotates in the first direction of rotation, or to a second load having a second resistance value when the rotor rotates in the second direction of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: AUDI AGInventors: WOLFGANG BRANDSTÄTTER, MARCO WILLEMS, VLADIMIR IDELEVITCH, WOLFGANG MERKES, HANS-JÜRGEN LANGHOFF, JOHANNES WITTMANN
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Publication number: 20170100980Abstract: A suspension control device includes an actuator configured to change an up/down stroke of a suspension, a front sensor, and a control device configured to estimate a displacement in a vertical direction of a road surface based on a detection result of the front sensor, thereby controlling the actuator. When the control device determines that a step portion in which a wheel comes into contact with two points of the road surface viewed in a direction along a rotational axis of the wheel exists ahead of a vehicle, the control device controls a force generated by the actuator so that, when the wheel comes into contact with the two points, the wheel rolls about the point without substantially pressing the point toward the travel direction of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Taishi TSUDA
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Publication number: 20170100981Abstract: A system for controlling a stability of a milling machine is disclosed. The system includes a frame having a first slope and a leg coupled to the frame. The leg extends and retracts along a length thereof with respect to the frame. The system includes a controller to determine the first slope and to actuate the leg if the first slope is greater than a first predetermined slope.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.Inventors: Jason W. Muir, Timothy M. O'Donnell, Dario Sansone
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Publication number: 20170100982Abstract: A work vehicle with the cylinder cushioning arrangement includes two frame members coupled together with two hydraulic cylinders that are cross-coupled to each other. Each of the two hydraulic cylinders includes a flow-restricted port (at either its rod end or the cylinder end) that throttles hydraulic fluid flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: William P. Curnyn, Henry C. Olsen, Michael D. Somers, Francois F. Stander
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Publication number: 20170100983Abstract: A system controls a drivability mode of a hybrid motor vehicle provided with a heat engine and with an electric engine. The system includes a first measurer for measuring running conditions of the vehicle, a second measurer for measuring a level of charge of a battery of the vehicle, a first controller for controlling the heat engine, a second controller for controlling the electric engine, a computer capable of emitting a first activation signal for the heat engine, and a second activation signal for the electric engine, as a function of the running conditions and of the level of charge, and a third measurer for measuring at least one characteristic relating to an operation of a heating system of the vehicle. The first activation signal and the second activation signal are generated on the basis of the characteristic relating to the operation of the heating system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: RENAULT s.a.sInventors: Jean-Marie L'HUILLIER, Alain ALEXANDRE
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Publication number: 20170100984Abstract: An electric compressor includes a housing accommodating a compression mechanism unit and an electric motor; an inverter; an inverter cover defining, in conjunction with the housing, an internal space accommodating the inverter; and a sealing member sealing the internal space. The inverter cover includes an outer cover portion formed of resin and having an outer surface exposed to an external space, an inner cover portion formed of resin and forming a resin interface where the inner cover portion is in close contact with the outer cover portion, and a metal plate interposed between the outer cover portion and the inner cover portion. The resin interface includes a first edge portion and a second edge portion and is arranged in such a manner that the first edge portion is located on the metal plate and that the second edge portion leads to the internal space.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKIInventors: Yusuke KINOSHITA, Ken SUITOU, Tatsuya KOIDE, Junya YANO
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Publication number: 20170100985Abstract: A refrigeration efficiency monitoring system detects degradation of a refrigeration system by monitoring a deviation from a normal operating status of the refrigeration system at an early stage of such degradation. The monitoring system detects and calculates a plurality of system parameters associated with the refrigeration system. The monitoring system then determines a decrease in efficiency of the refrigeration system based on comparison between the system parameters and reference values representative of the normal operating status, and generate a service recommendation based on the determination.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: KARL JOHNSON, JAHN STOPPERAN
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Publication number: 20170100986Abstract: An air conditioning system for a vehicle may include a cooling module including a cooling duct, a cooling-side inlet formed in a first end of the cooling duct, a cooling-side indoor outlet and a cooling-side outdoor outlet formed in a second end of the cooling duct, and an evaporator core provided in the cooling duct, a heating module including a heating duct, a heating-side inlet formed in a first end of the heating duct, a heating-side indoor outlet and a heating-side outdoor outlet formed in a second end of the heating duct, and a plurality of condensers provided in the heating duct, and a cooling blower and a heating blower respectively provided in the cooling duct and the heating duct, in which the plurality of condensers provided in the heating duct and the evaporator core provided in the cooling duct are coupled on a single refrigerant circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Gee Young SHIN, June Kyu PARK, Keon Soo JIN, Dae Ig JUNG, Kwang Woon CHO
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Publication number: 20170100987Abstract: A method for operating a refrigeration system for a mobile unit includes steps of: 1) providing a refrigeration unit having a compressor, an evaporator, and at least one fan operable to move air towards the evaporator, a generator dedicated to the refrigeration unit, and a battery; 2) determining at least one environmental parameter in one or both of the mobile unit and the refrigeration unit; and 3) selectively operating the refrigeration unit in one of a plurality of modes based on the environmental parameter. The plurality of modes includes a first mode wherein at least the fan is powered by the battery, and a second mode wherein the compressor and the fan are powered by the generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Robert A. Chopko, John R. Reason, Mark J. Perkovich
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Publication number: 20170100988Abstract: The present invention relates to an air nozzle device (10) for a vehicle (1) comprising a housing (11) defining an interior volume and having an air inlet (12) at one side, an air discharge opening (14) at a second side and an air flow channel (18) through the housing (11) for transporting a flow of air between the air inlet and the air discharge opening, the device (10) further comprising a user-actuated manual mechanism (32), a moveable first linkage assembly (34), a moveable second linkage assembly (36), a shutoff mechanism (40) configured to regulate the air flow, a first air flow adjustment arrangement (22) and a second air flow adjustment arrangement (24), each being pivotably connected to said housing and configured to adjust the direction of the air flow, wherein said user-actuated manual mechanism (32) is configured to permit manual operation of the first air flow adjustment arrangement (22), the second air flow adjustment (24) and the shutoff mechanism (40) from the outside of the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Lionel BELZONS, Richard STARK, Christian CYRULEWSKI, Iain CLAYDON
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Publication number: 20170100989Abstract: Methods and systems for reducing microbial contamination and growth in an automotive HVAC system by irradiating one or more air contacting surfaces of the HVAC system with antimicrobial UV-C light.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Thomas J. Chapaton, Michael J. Llerandi, Keith V. Huguley, Mark A. Gordon
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Publication number: 20170100990Abstract: An aspect of the present disclosure is a thermal barrier that includes a core layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a first edge, and a first outer layer that includes a third surface and a second edge, where the third surface substantially contacts the first surface, the core layer is configured to minimize conductive heat transfer through the barrier, and the first outer layer is configured to maximize reflection of light away from the barrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Cory J. KREUTZER, Jason A. LUSTBADER
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Publication number: 20170100991Abstract: A vehicle sunroof comprising an electro-optic device is disclosed. The electro-optic device forms a variable transmission window comprising a first layer, a second layer, and an electro-optic medium disposed between the first layer and the second layer. At least one of the first layer and the second layer correspond to a polymeric film. The sunroof further comprises a frame configured to connect the electro-optic device to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: David J. Cammenga, David L. Poll, William L. Tonar
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Publication number: 20170100992Abstract: An adjustable sun visor comprising a rotational mounting having an adjustable rod extending downwardly therefrom; a primary support rod perpendicularly connected end-to-end with the adjustable rod via an angular joint; a visor mounted to the primary support rod, the visor comprising a visor body including an upper longitudinal edge, a secondary support rod, and a and a primary support rod sleeve with an opening leading axially thereto; wherein the secondary support rod resides towards the end of the upper longitudinal edge of the visor opposite the opening of the primary support rod sleeve; wherein the primary support rod sleeve is aligned axially with the secondary support rod and the primary support rod traverses into the primary support rod sleeve through the opening wherein it is hidden in the interior of the visor.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Armenio Ruybal
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Publication number: 20170100993Abstract: An automobile including a photochromic windshield is provided. The automobile includes a frame and at least one drive motor supported by the frame. A plurality of wheels supports the frame and is driven by the at least one drive motor. A windshield is secured to the frame. The windshield includes a transparent material and a photochromic substance.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Dewayne Leroy Casey
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Publication number: 20170100994Abstract: A vehicle tailgate assembly for retaining a tailgate at a plurality of angles relative to the vehicle. A mounting plate is provided to the side a tailgate and provided with a stud to retain a tailgate retention cable to prevent the tailgate from fully opening relative to the vehicle. The stud may be moved to different securement holes within the mounting plate to allow the assembly to secure the cable and maintain the tailgate at a plurality of positions between locked and fully opened for the securement and transport of oversized loads.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Chris McAninch
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Publication number: 20170100995Abstract: A deflector apparatus for a vehicle includes a deflector, a support member and a torsion spring. The deflector includes arm portions provided as a pair, and each of the arm portions includes a shaft portion and a cam protruding portion. The support member includes a support recessed portion in which the shaft portion is inserted, a cam recessed portion in which the cam protruding portion is inserted and a support protruding portion. The torsion spring includes a turning portion attached to the support protruding portion, and a first leg portion and a second leg portion each extended in the vehicle front and rear direction from the turning portion. The first leg portion includes a distal end portion which can be in slide contact with the arm portion and the second leg portion includes a distal end portion which can be in slide contact with the support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHISIKI KAISHAInventors: Katsumi KONISHI, Kazuki SAWADA
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Publication number: 20170100996Abstract: The subject invention includes a fixed window assembly for a vehicle comprising a fixed glass, a trim portion having a polymeric base and a decorative member bonded to the polymeric base. An encapsulation is coupled to the fixed glass and the polymeric base to mount the trim portion in a spaced and adjacent position relative to the fixed glass. A method of manufacturing is also provided using first and second molding apparatuses. Polymeric material is injected into a first mold cavity of the first molding apparatus to form the polymeric base bonded to the decorative member. Polymeric material is injected into a second mold cavity of the second molding apparatus to form the encapsulation coupled to the fixed glass and simultaneously coupled to the polymeric base to mount the trim portion in an adjacent position to the fixed glass.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: Henniges Automotive Sealing Systems North America, Inc.Inventors: Petr Husek, Daniel Slavik, Achim Grüter
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Publication number: 20170100997Abstract: A mounting structure for an engine mount (9) for an internal combustion engine. A fitting (19), such as a spigot, having an axis is provided for fitment to the engine mount. A bracket (11) is provided for fitment to the internal combustion engine. The bracket is arranged to receive the fitting in a direction parallel to its axis. The bracket includes an arrangement, such as a clamp, which is operable to cause the bracket to retain or release the fitting and the arrangement is accessible along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the fitting is received into the bracket. This enables the engine mount to be released from the bracket by accessing the bracket from alongside rather than above.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Keith HILL
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Publication number: 20170100998Abstract: A vehicle drive device that includes a rotating electrical machine that together with an internal combustion engine serves as a driving force source for wheels, a speed change device disposed next to the rotating electrical machine in an axial direction, or a direction in which a rotation axis of the rotating electrical machine extends, a drive device case formed by joining a first case accommodating the rotating electrical machine and a second case accommodating the speed change device, and a rotating electrical machine control device that controls the rotating electrical machine and that is fixed to outside of one of the first case and the second case.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: AISIN AW CO., LTD.Inventors: Tomoyuki SUZUKI, Tatsuyuki UECHI
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Publication number: 20170100999Abstract: A drive arrangement and a vehicle; having a damper device having a damper primary side and a damper secondary side. The damper primary side forms a first drive interface for the coupling of a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine, having a freewheel device with a freewheel input and a freewheel output. The damper secondary side is coupled rotationally conjointly to the freewheel input, having a gearbox section operatively connected to the freewheel output, having an output interface for the coupling of a drive output section of the vehicle, wherein the output interface is operatively connected to the gearbox section, and having a second drive interface for the coupling of the electric motor and operatively connected to the gearbox section by a control device. The drive arrangement can, by the control device, be switched into different operating states such that a drive torque can be transmitted to the output interface by the first drive interface or by the second drive interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Thomas Mehlis, Andreas Kinigadner, Robert Hayes, Alexander Reimchen, Hartmut Mende
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Publication number: 20170101000Abstract: A powertrain includes an axle end assembly rotatable about a wheel axis. A wheel bearing housing rotatably supports an outer axle end of the axle end assembly. A wheel hub is rotatably supported by the wheel bearing housing for rotation about the wheel axis. A hub actuating system is coupled to the wheel bearing housing, and is selectively controllable between an engaged state for rotatably coupling the wheel hub and the outer axle end together, and a disengaged state for de-coupling the wheel hub and the outer axle end. At least one axle bearing interconnects and rotatably supports the outer axle end relative to the actuator housing so that the outer axle end and the wheel hub are axially stacked relative to each other along the wheel axis, and the wheel hub and the outer axle end do not radially overlap each other relative to the wheel axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Shawn H. Swales, Goro Tamai
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Publication number: 20170101001Abstract: An airflow sealing system for a body-on-frame vehicle includes at least one flexible interface configured to control airflow between a vehicle body-mounted cooling pack assembly and a vehicle chassis-mounted air intake assembly. The chassis-mounted air intake assembly may be a lower air scoop/deflector. The at least one flexible interface includes a first end attached to a portion of the chassis-mounted air intake assembly and a second end slidably contacting a portion of the body-mounted cooling pack assembly. The second end may be slidably biased against a sealing plenum associated with the body-mounted cooling pack assembly. The at least one flexible interface may define a wiper seal between the body-mounted cooling pack assembly and the chassis-mounted air intake assembly. Chassis-mounted air intake assemblies and body-on-frame vehicles including the airflow sealing system are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: David Brian Glickman
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Publication number: 20170101002Abstract: A fuel system comprises a fuel tank including at least a top wall, a bottom wall, and one or more stanchions positioned within the fuel tank, each stanchion coupled to the top wall and the bottom wall. A strain gauge is positioned on the outside of the fuel tank, opposite an intersection of a stanchion and the top wall, such that degradation of the stanchion results in results in pressure-dependent deformation of the fuel tank that is registered by the strain gauge. In this way, degradation of deformable fuel tanks, such as polymeric fuel tanks, may be diagnosed and indicated.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Aed M. Dudar, Scott A. Bohr, Kevin Lucka, Wolfgang Krings
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Publication number: 20170101003Abstract: Some of the present apparatuses include a frame defining first and second supports and at least a portion of a rigid tank mount laterally offset from the first and second supports, where the first support is configured to be pivotally coupled to a vehicle such that the frame is movable relative to the vehicle between a first position in which the second support is spaced apart from the vehicle and second position in which the second support is coupled to the vehicle. Some apparatuses include a frame mount having a flange defining a bounded opening configured to receive a fastener and a post extending from the flange and away from the opening, where the first support is configured to be pivotally coupled to the flange via the fastener and the second support is configured to be coupled to the post when the frame is in the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Michael Zimmerman, Christopher Culberson
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Publication number: 20170101004Abstract: A transmission includes an input shaft, and a primary drive gear fixed to the input shaft. The primary gear has a first set of gear teeth. An idler gear is disposed in the transmission and has a second set of gear teeth in meshing engagement with the first set of gear teeth. The transmission also includes a transmission-pump drive gear having a third set of gear teeth in meshing engagement with the second set of gear teeth. The transmission-pump drive gear is configured to transmit power from the input shaft to a transmission pump. A power take-off unit is mounted to a case of the transmission and includes a first unit drive gear having a fourth set of gear teeth in meshing engagement with the second set of teeth. The a first unit drive gear is configured to transmit power from the idler gear to the power take-off.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Steven Anatole Frait, Laurence Andrew Deutsch, Gregory Daniel Goleski, Jeffrey Edward Maurer
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Publication number: 20170101005Abstract: A drive unit, in particular for an industrial transport vehicle, is at least comprised of a gearbox with at least one gear stage, a drive motor and a running wheel. To minimize the costs when there are substantially greater loads on the running wheel, there are provisions in accordance with the invention for the running wheel to be directly connected to a bevel gear on the output side, which is supported by a first bearing element for accommodating the load and by a second bearing element that serves to provide stabilization and that is supported in the gearbox . The first bearing element bears all of the loads here, whereas the second bearing element with substantially smaller dimensions merely has to cushion tilting forces that arise.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Josef Raue
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Publication number: 20170101006Abstract: A vehicle immobilization system includes a detection element operable to detect a level of an intoxicant in a user's breath. A control module is operable to receive a signal from the detection element indicating the level of intoxicant in the user's breath, and to selectively restrict operation of a vehicle based on the level of intoxicant in the user's breath exceeding a threshold by selectively sending a signal via a connection between the control module and the vehicle using a data link connection such as an Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) port of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Douglas Edward DeVries, Kerry L. Keller, Timothy J. McGrath
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Publication number: 20170101007Abstract: A vehicle immobilization system includes a detection element operable to detect a level of an intoxicant in a user's breath. A control module is operable to receive a signal from the detection element indicating the level of intoxicant in the user's breath, and to selectively restrict operation of a vehicle based on the level of intoxicant in the user's breath exceeding a threshold. A wireless relay is operable to replace a standard relay in the vehicle, and to wirelessly communicate with the control module such that the control module is operable to control the wireless relay to selectively restrict operation of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Douglas Edward DeVries, Timothy J. McGrath
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Publication number: 20170101008Abstract: A wheelie determining device comprises a wheelie preceding state determiner section which makes a comparison between a vehicle body speed with respect to a ground surface and a circumferential speed of a front wheel to determine whether or not a vehicle is in a wheelie preceding state; and a wheelie amount determiner section which calculates as a wheelie amount which is a lift-off amount of the front wheel with respect to the ground surface, an angular change amount of the vehicle body in a rotational direction in which the front wheel is away from the ground surface, from a time point when the wheelie preceding state determiner section has determined that the vehicle has been in the wheelie preceding state.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Tatsuya Hirokami, Shohei Terai, Seiji Azuma, Kengo Ueda
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Publication number: 20170101009Abstract: A wheelie suppressing device comprises a wheelie determiner section which detects a wheelie state; and a wheelie suppressing section which performs a wheelie suppressing control for suppressing an engine output when the wheelie determiner section has detected the wheelie state, wherein the wheelie suppressing control includes a first suppressing control for suppressing the engine output while performing fuel feeding and an ignition operation, and a second suppressing control for suppressing the engine output by performing the fuel feeding or the ignition operation at a reduced rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Tatsuya Hirokami, Shohei Terai, Seiji Azuma, Kengo Ueda
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Publication number: 20170101010Abstract: A speed control system for an agricultural system having an agricultural vehicle includes a control system, wherein at least during steady-state operation of the agricultural vehicle. The control system instructs an engine to maintain a constant speed, determine a first estimated speed of the agricultural vehicle associated with increasing a gear index of a step ratio transmission, determine a second estimated speed of the agricultural vehicle associated with decreasing the gear index of the step ratio transmission, instruct the step ratio transmission to increase the gear index if the first estimated speed is closer to a target speed than the second estimated speed and a current speed of the agricultural vehicle, and instruct the step ratio transmission to decrease the gear index if the second estimated speed is closer to the target speed than the first estimated speed and the current speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Ashraf Omran, Brian Allen Hartman, Alberto Berselli, Romolo Ciardullo
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Publication number: 20170101011Abstract: Disclosed are a method for controlling the operation of in-vehicle infotainment and device thereof, the method includes: detecting whether a passenger sits on the non-driver's seat, if the passenger sits on the non-driver's seat, running the corresponding in-vehicle infotainment to provide service; and detecting whether the passenger sitting on the non-driver's seat shifts, if the passenger sitting on the non-driver's seat shifts, closing the corresponding in-vehicle infotainment to stop providing service.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Mingsong HONG
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Publication number: 20170101012Abstract: A method of calibrating and controlling a gauge, to which a stepper motor is applied in a cluster of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), includes: receiving information corresponding to an operation state of an electric motor from a certain controller; and controlling a gauge angle indicated by a needle of the gauge to correspond to a target gauge angle indicated by the received information. The step of controlling includes: setting a dropping flag when the target gauge angle is lower than a previous gauge angle; and calibrating the target gauge angle to drop by a reference angle when the target gauge angle corresponds to an angle value that is different from a lowest point of the gauge while setting the dropping flag.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Kang Ho LEE
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Publication number: 20170101013Abstract: A display device for a vehicle and an automobile including the same are disclosed. In one aspect, the display device includes a display unit that includes a first surface and a second surface located on an opposite side of the first surface. The first surface includes an active area having opposing sides and configured to generate an image and a plurality of inactive areas located on the opposing sides of the active area and bent with respect to the active area. The display device also includes a heat radiation member adjacent to the second surface of the display unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventors: Cheolyun Jeong, Kinyeng Kang
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Publication number: 20170101014Abstract: One of the major problems with the modern electric vehicle is the limited driving range. Part of that problem is due to the fact they utilize heavy batteries that require stationary charging. The Power Extender Setup technology corrects for some of these major shortcomings to improve the driving range.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2016Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Cameron Mealad Shokri
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Publication number: 20170101015Abstract: A charging device for electric vehicles includes two power sources interacting with a primary inductive device. The charging device also includes an input circuit having a first input connectable to a first power source, a second input and at least one output connectable to a charger, a secondary inductive device capable of being coupled to the primary inductive device for energy transfer between the primary inductive device and the secondary inductive device, thereby generating an induced electric signal at the output of the secondary inductive device, and a converter from the induced electric signal to an electric signal towards the second power supply input of the input circuit, the converter being configured such that the electric signal is similar to the electric signal of the first power source.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2015Publication date: April 13, 2017Inventor: Jean-Yves GASPARD