Patents Issued in May 25, 2017
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Publication number: 20170144690Abstract: A vibration suppressor can include a mass element that can be mounted to a steering wheel of a vehicle, with the steering wheel defining a rotational axis about which the steering wheel is rotated when installed in the vehicle. The vibration suppressor can include a spring system that mounts the mass element to the steering wheel. The spring system can include multiple spring elements, each of which can have a compliance in the third dimension that is greater than a compliance in either a first or a second dimension (which are orthogonal to the third dimension) to permit the mass element to rotate back and forth about the rotational axis of the steering wheel to absorb rotational vibrations of the steering wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Toshiaki Ebana, Christopher D. Morgan, David R. Palm, JR.
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Publication number: 20170144691Abstract: A steering column assembly for a vehicle includes a housing defining a bore that extends along an axis. The steering column assembly includes a first shaft disposed in the bore and a second shaft telescopically engaged with the first shaft. The second shaft is movable along the axis relative to the housing. A wedge is fixed to the second shaft and is spaced from the housing. During frontal impact of the vehicle, an occupant may impact the steering column assembly. Relative telescopic retraction of the first shaft and the second shaft provides a first stage of energy absorption. As the first shaft and the second shaft telescopically retract, the wedge contacts the housing and deforms the housing in a second stage of energy absorption.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Saeed David Barbat, Michael James Whitens, Mohamed Ridha Baccouche
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Publication number: 20170144692Abstract: Arrangements (e.g., method; vehicle; non-transitory, tangible, machine-readable media embodying a program) for controlling nominal vehicle steering characteristics in a vehicle steering system are disclosed. A method of controlling nominal vehicle steering characteristics includes determining an actual position of an adjustable steering component of the vehicle, comparing the actual position to a reference position of the component, and based at least in part on the comparison, adjusting at least one of the steering ratio and a steering torque feedback in the vehicle steering system. In one embodiment, based at least in part on the comparison, a percentage of change in a steering ratio for a range of steering wheel angles is calculated and, based on the percentage of change, at least one of the steering ratio and a steering torque feedback in the vehicle steering system is adjusted to a nominal value associated with the nominal vehicle steering characteristics.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLGIES, LLCInventors: David Michael RUSSELL, Lodewijk WIJFFELS, Robert J. GARBY
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Publication number: 20170144693Abstract: An electric power steering system 1 uses a brushless motor 3 as a drive source. The brushless motor 3 includes a stator 13 in which stator coils 17 are wound in a distributed manner and a rotor 14 rotatably disposed inside the stator 13. In the rotor 14, four sets of slit groups 31 each having circular-arc shaped slits 31a to 31c are formed. Rotor magnets 32 which are bonded magnets are filled in the slits 31a to 31c. The rotor magnets 32 are polar anisotropically magnetized. The rotor 14 is rotated by a magnet torque generated by the rotor magnets 32 and a reluctance torque based on a difference in inductance between magnetic paths so as to supply a steering assist force.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Masayuki OKUBO
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Publication number: 20170144694Abstract: A steering system of a two-track vehicle has a control rod which is displaceable transverse to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and track rods coupled at the two ends of the control rod, which act on steerable wheels of the vehicle such that the wheels are pivoted around the steering axis of rotation by a displacement of the control rod. The control rod is configured divided into two control rod parts each assigned to a wheel and connected to each other via a coupling member which braces the two control rod parts against each other at least temporarily, and at least temporarily enables a relative movement of the two control rod parts in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The coupling member is connected to each of the control rod parts via screw threads. The screw axis of rotation of the screw threads is the longitudinal axis of the control rod. The control rod parts and/or the coupling member are rotatable around the longitudinal axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Matthias STANGL
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Publication number: 20170144695Abstract: A slide member (26) is externally fitted to an outer peripheral surface of an outer ring (20) configuring a tip side bearing (9a) for supporting a tip portion of a worm shaft (6a) so as to be displaceable in an axial direction. A first inclined cylindrical face portion (32) which is an inclined surface disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the slide member (26), and a second inclined cylindrical face portion (30) which is an inclined surface disposed on an inner peripheral surface of a guide member (28) internally fitted and fixed to a holding hole (10a) of a housing (3a) are fitted to each other so as to be slidable in an inclined direction of the respective inclined cylindrical face portions (32, 30). An elastic ring (29) which biases a bearing holding member (26) against to one side in the axial direction is disposed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: NSK LTD.Inventor: Toru SEGAWA
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Publication number: 20170144696Abstract: A steering control apparatus controls steering characteristics by controlling a motor to output assist torque, which is generated corresponding to a steering torque applied to a steering shaft. The steering control apparatus includes a torque deviation generator generating a torque deviation between the steering torque applied to the steering shaft and a target steering torque and a command value generator generating an assist torque command value for controlling the motor based on a basic command value. The basic command value controls the torque deviation to become zero. The command value generator includes an integrator integrating and outputting the torque deviation and an output limiter setting an output limit to an immediately previous basic command value obtained immediately before the basic command value. The output limiter generates the assist torque command value using the immediately previous basic command value to which the output limit is set.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Yosuke Hirate, Motoaki Kataoka
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Publication number: 20170144697Abstract: Enclosed are an apparatus and a method for controlling steering return of a motor driven power steering system. More particularly, various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus and method for controlling steering return of a motor driven power steering system, which enables an overshoot-free center stop to be made as well as enables a quick return to be made, when returning after steering by a large steering angle in the motor driven power steering system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.Inventors: Kyoung Soo LIM, Lyoung Tae KIM
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Publication number: 20170144698Abstract: A method for estimating the ageing of a steering mechanism during which the ageing of the steering mechanism is assessed by calculating a value called <<ageing value>> according to an ageing function (old, old2, ene) which corresponds to the integral, over time, of an expression which is weighted by a stress indicator (Tm(u), Ts(u)) the value of which at each considered instant (u) is representative of the intensity of a stress force (Tm, Ts), such as the operating force exerted by the assist motor, which is undergone by the steering mechanism at the considered instant.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: JTEKT EUROPEInventors: Sébastien BOURDREZ, Pascal MOULAIRE, Romaric PREGNIARD, Christophe RAVIER
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Publication number: 20170144699Abstract: An embodiment of a system of a vehicle includes a power steering system that operates as commanded by control commands, and a control module configured to receive a first control command. The control module is also configured to generate a range signal indicative of a range of command values based on a plurality of input signals, generate a second control command based on a subset of the plurality of input signals, determine whether the first control command is out of the range for longer than a predetermined duration of time, and send the second control command to the power steering system in response to determining the first control command is out of the range for longer than the predetermined duration of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Scott A. Millsap, Ashok Chandy, Kevin L. Derry, Caroline Dannöhl, Hans-Peter Hank, Jens Schotte, Kristian Vetter
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Publication number: 20170144700Abstract: A hydraulically assisted steering system comprises a steering gear operatively connected to a steering wheel and to a set of steerable wheels to effect turning of the steerable wheels in response to rotation of the steering wheel. A hydraulic motor is operatively connected to the set of steerable wheels to assist in turning of the steerable wheels. A pump is fluidly connected to the hydraulic motor to deliver a flow of fluid to the hydraulic motor via a flow path from the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic motor. The flow path from the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic motor is free of any rotary steering control valve. Pressure control apparatus monitors and adjusts hydraulic fluid pressure in the hydraulic motor. The pressure control apparatus adjusts hydraulic fluid pressure in the hydraulic motor by controlling one of pump speed and pump displacement. Direction control apparatus controls direction of hydraulic fluid flow to the hydraulic motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Amine Nhila
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Publication number: 20170144701Abstract: A guidance system identifies a path on a field and then calculates a position and heading of a trailer relative to the path. The guidance system steers a vehicle connected to the trailer based on the calculated trailer position and heading to minimize the trailer positional error and more quickly and accurately align the trailer with the path. The guidance system may align the trailer with the path while steering the vehicle in a reverse direction and may steer the vehicle based on a predicted trailer position and heading.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: AGJUNCTION LLCInventors: Eran D.B. MEDAGODA, Timothy J. SULLIVAN, Brendan M. JOINER, Andreas F. RAMM, Tri M. DANG
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Publication number: 20170144702Abstract: A guidance system may derive a K-turn path when a vehicle reaches an end of a first way line in a field. The guidance system may send the K-turn path to a steering controller to turn the vehicle around in a headland area to the beginning of a second way-line in the field. A first segment of the K-turn path may turn the vehicle along a first path in a forward direction and a second segment of the K-turn path may turn the vehicle along a second path in a reverse direction. A third segment of the K-turn path may turn the vehicle along a third path in the forward direction to a starting location of the second way-line. The K-turn path uses less area than other types of turns reducing the amount of headland used for turning around the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: AGJUNCTION LLCInventors: Tri M. DANG, Timothy J. SULLIVAN
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Publication number: 20170144703Abstract: An electric power assisted steering system comprising an input shaft and an output shaft, an electric motor connected to the output shaft, at least two sensors including one or more of: a position sensor, a torque sensor, and a motor position, and a motor controller that causes the motor to apply an assistance torque as a function of the torque measured by the torque sensor, in which each of the sensors produces at least one output signal represented by a stream of digital samples captured at discrete times, and in which the apparatus further comprises: processing means arranged to process together the output signals from both processing units to produce at least one further signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: TRW LimitedInventor: James Owen Patrick Farrelly
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Publication number: 20170144704Abstract: As an off-road vehicle traverses a curved path driven by an operator, a data processor determines an error estimate between the points on the curved path and a generally circular perimeter about an estimated center point consistent with alignment of the curved path to the generally circular perimeter in accordance with a least squares algorithm or a modified least squares algorithm. The data processor or user interface provides an indicator to an operator of the vehicle that an arc length or angular displacement of the curved path with respect to the estimated center point is sufficient to estimate accurately the estimated center point and the radius of the generally circular perimeter if the determined error estimate is less than a threshold error.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: William D. Robinson, Tyler D. Schleicher
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Publication number: 20170144705Abstract: The present embodiments relate to a system and a method for controlling autonomous steering according to a required torque from a driver assistance system, in which when outputting a driving current by the required torque, a compensation current is output by applying gains according to a car speed, steering angle, steering angle speed, and required torque to a variation in torque by the rotation of a steering wheel, thereby achieving autonomous steering with the smooth rotation of the steering wheel without intermittent interruptions even in high friction between the car and the road depending on road conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Sung Gun LEE
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Publication number: 20170144706Abstract: A vehicle frame structure includes an elongated side sill having an internal space defined by an upper wall, a lower wall, an outer lateral side wall, and an inner lateral side wall. The internal space is partitioned by a vertical rib and a horizontal rib, the perpendicularly crossed vertical and horizontal ribs connecting inside faces of the upper, lower, outer and inner walls. The vertical rib separates the side sill into an outer lateral portion and an inner lateral portion. The outer lateral portion is defined by an outer lateral section of each of the upper and lower wall and the outer side wall. The inner lateral portion is defined by an inner lateral section of each of the upper and lower wall and the inner side wall. The outer lateral portion of the side sill is thicker than the inner lateral portion of the side sill.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Edward W. Bach
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Publication number: 20170144707Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body that includes a rocker fixed to an underbody. The rocker and the under body at least in part define a front wheel well of the vehicle. A rim engagement member is cantilevered from the underbody and extends into the wheel well. The rim engagement member snags a rim of a front wheel of the vehicle and directs movement of a front wheel of the vehicle away from intrusion into a floor and/or dash of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ryan Craig, Akshay Kulkarni, Chris Stephen O'Connor
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Publication number: 20170144708Abstract: A roof arrangement for a motor vehicle, and which includes a roof module and a bodywork structure for receiving the roof module. The roof module has a roof outer skin and at least one load-bearing roof bow. The roof bow, on at least one lateral end thereof, includes a tongue extending vertically downward in an installed position. The bodywork structure includes an upwardly open channel in the installed position, the tongue being received in the channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Bernhard HOFER, Franz PLANKA
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Publication number: 20170144709Abstract: A cowl structure for a vehicle that drains water drops. A cowl outer panel is provided opposing a front end portion side of an instrument panel. A downflow portion is provided at each of two end portions in the vehicle width direction of a floor wall portion of the cowl outer panel. A drainage member is provided at the lower side of each downflow portion. Hence, water drops that have flowed down the glass inner face of the front glass pass along the floor wall portion of the cowl outer panel, flow down through the downflow portion, and are guided to the drainage member. An outflow port is formed at drainage member. The outflow port is in fluid communication with a drainage port formed at a front pillar inner. Therefore, water in the drainage member may be drained out of the vehicle from the outflow port via the drainage port.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Mikio NAKASHIMA
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Publication number: 20170144710Abstract: An active grille shutter (AGS) system for a vehicle can include a housing defining first, second, and third openings, the third opening being located between the first and second openings and being configured to receive an object detection device that is configured to detect objects in front of the vehicle, a first set of louvers arranged in the first opening, a second set of louvers arranged in the second opening, and a linkage connecting the first and second sets of louvers, wherein a set of actuators are configured to selectively open/close the first and second sets of louvers by driving the linkage or at least one of the first and second sets of louvers. The AGS system can be configured to be fully-integrated, semi-integrated, or standalone with respect to a grille assembly of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: SRG Global Inc.Inventors: Rob Frayer, Kurt Meier, James DeLaHoussaye
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Publication number: 20170144711Abstract: A vehicle lower portion structure has a floor panel, rockers, a floor tunnel, and beads. The floor panel forms a floor portion of the vehicle. The pair of rockers are disposed respectively on both outer sides in the vehicle transverse direction of the floor panel, and extend in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The floor tunnel is disposed in a central portion in the vehicle transverse direction of the floor panel, and extends in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The beads are formed protruding towards the vehicle upward side on the floor panel between the rockers and the floor tunnel such that ridgelines thereof extend in the vehicle longitudinal direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Koichi DAIGAKU
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Publication number: 20170144712Abstract: A load-bearing structure of a motor vehicle, having hollow profiles and junction elements to connect the hollow profiles. The hollow profiles may be fastened in receptacles of the junction elements, and the junction elements may have a plurality of areal webs in a vehicle vertical direction, at least some of the areal webs forming a framework structure which assists the load path in the respective junction element.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Philipp EHRLICH, Manuel ERLACHER, Bernhard HOFER, Reinhard HOERMANN, Stefan MAIER, Franz PLANKA, Michael RUCKER, Stefan RUD, Anton SPARY, Harald ZACHNEGGER
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Publication number: 20170144713Abstract: The present invention provides a truck, including a driver cab and a cargo body, which are separated from each other. The driver cab includes: a supporting plate arranged at the top of the driver cab; and a movable top cover having a front edge and a rear edge, which is arranged above the supporting plate and can move between a retracted position and an expanded position, wherein a rest space for a passenger to lie flat is formed between the movable top cover and the supporting plate. A living area may be arranged in the driver cab of the present invention, living facilities installed in the living area may provide diet and sanitation services for the driver in a travelling truck, so as to reduce the parking times of the truck, and meanwhile improve the living quality of the driver.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Shufu LI
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Publication number: 20170144714Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch adjustment arrangement for adjusting a position of a fifth wheel hitch plate along a length of a vehicle frame, the fifth wheel hitch adjustment arrangement including a fifth wheel hitch plate, a support arrangement coupled to the fifth wheel hitch plate such that the fifth wheel hitch plate can be moved between a first position along a length of a vehicle frame and a second position along the length of the vehicle frame that is different than the first position, and a drive assembly adapted to couple to a vehicle frame and coupled to the support arrangement, the drive assembly including a rack-and-pinion arrangement, the rack-and-pinion arrangement including a rack member engaging at least one pinion member, the at least one pinion member engaging the rack member of the support arrangement to move the fifth wheel hitch plate between the first and second positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.Inventors: Steven Dupay, Ahmad Nizam Mohamad Jembari
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Publication number: 20170144715Abstract: A method of hardening an article of manufacture that includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis made of a material that is capable of being hardened and that is intended for a particular use is provided. The method may comprise locally heating the material at a first location found on the article along the axis to a first predetermined depth in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis and locally heating the material at a second location found on the article along the axis to a second predetermined depth in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis, wherein the first predetermined depth is different than the second predetermined depth.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Eric James Johannsen, Mircea Dumitru, Chee Keong Ng
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Publication number: 20170144716Abstract: Join two automobiles safely, securely and strongly with weatherproof joint, temporarily on need basis to become one automobile, in such a manner that the interior space of joined automobiles becomes contiguous and weather protected to allow the occupants to move within the bigger contiguous, enclosed weather protected space without having to step outside any of the joined automobiles. Such joined automobiles shall combine their propulsion power, increase their driving range and allow bigger or heavier payload to be carried that cannot be carried by any of the unjoined automobile alone.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Madurai Bharani
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Publication number: 20170144717Abstract: A method for constructing an integrated end structure for a vehicle includes placing a center module for an integrated end structure for a vehicle in a fixture separate from the vehicle, attaching a side bracket to the center module in the fixture to form an assembly, the side bracket configured for holding a light unit of the vehicle, mounting the assembly onto at least a bracket in the vehicle that provides adjustability of the assembly in at least a z-direction, and, after mounting the assembly, mounting a storage compartment module onto the center module and the side bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: Tesla Motors, Inc.Inventors: James Bellis, P Thomas Vikstrom
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Publication number: 20170144718Abstract: A stability attachment for a personal transportation vehicle includes a frame, a clamp mechanism and a pair of training wheels. The frame includes a first support arm and a second support arm. The first and second support arms are interconnected by the clamp mechanism. Each of the training wheels is situated on opposite sides of the frame and vertically adjustable thereon. The frame is selectively mounted to the main body of the personal transportation vehicle on which the operator stands by the clamp mechanism. The clamp mechanism is adjustable so that the stability attachment can be mounted to personal transportation vehicles of various sizes. Each of the support arms includes at least two telescoping members so that the overall length of the support arm can be adjusted.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Prapan Paul Tinaphong
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Publication number: 20170144719Abstract: A load transmission includes a left foot placement surface on which a left foot of a driver riding the vehicle is to be placed and a right foot placement surface on which a right foot of the driver is to be placed. The load transmission transmits a load to a left portion of a linkage by way of the left foot placement surface, and transmits a load to a right portion of the linkage by way of the right foot placement surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Keisuke TERADA, Takayuki SANO
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Publication number: 20170144720Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved control system of the trim of motorcycles with more than two wheels. More in particular, it relates to motorcycles which have at least three wheels and can lean sideways by virtue of the presence of a so-called wheel tilting system. The present invention improves the HTS hydro-pneumatic system developed by the same Applicant, which is the object of Patent EP 2 046 589, so as to improve the vehicle trim, above all while cornering with the leaned vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2014Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Riccardo MARABESE, Marco MORONI
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Publication number: 20170144721Abstract: The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: JON P. MOLDESTAD
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Publication number: 20170144722Abstract: A steering apparatus with forward extended fork legs includes left and right fork legs that extend from a wheel axle all the way up to a handlebar. Top fork portions support a handlebar in a more forward location. A mid-fork portion of each fork leg is positioned in front of the steering column to provide more clearance room for the rider's knees. e top ends of the fork legs are positioned a forward distance in front of the vertical axis defined by the steering column. Each fork leg may be tilted forward with respect to the steering column and may also include a forward bend to direct portions of each fork leg towards the front.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: SHINJI MARUI
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Publication number: 20170144723Abstract: An assembly of a bicycle stem and one or more clamping organs, include a stem body with a clamping opening and at least one clamping organ for clamping a steerer tube inside the clamping opening. The clamping opening has symmetric opposing end sections. Those opposing end sections as well as inner and outer clamping faces of one or more insert parts of a clamping organ are shaped complementary to outer circumferential parts of an upper end of the steerer tube, such that the at least one insert part of the clamping organ is positionable in two different rotational positions on either side of the steerer tube inside the clamping opening for adjusting a distance between the steerer tube and the handlebar.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Gerard Louis Jean Paul Amaury Vroomen
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Publication number: 20170144724Abstract: A system for, and method of, providing e-assist on a route. A determination may be made of whether terrain data for the route is available. A rider effort level may be determined. The terrain data may be read when available. Whether a change in slope has occurred, or is anticipated to occur, corresponding to a need for an additional input to the rider effort level may be determined. The e-assist level may be adjusted to provide a level that offsets the need for the additional input, or the rider may be informed to provide an increased effort level.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: PRAKASH MURUGESAN, MARK A. MANICKARAJ, MICHAEL J. CHAPPELL, ANDREW M. ZETTEL
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Publication number: 20170144725Abstract: A method for activating a motor of an electric two-wheeler, including the following steps: determining a position of a driver of the electric two-wheeler as a function of a first GPS signal, the first GPS signal having a temporal dependence on a starting position; determining a position of a virtual training partner as a function of a second GPS signal, the second GPS signal having a temporal dependence on the starting position; determining a distance between the position of the driver of the electric two-wheeler and the position of the virtual training partner; determining a slipstream effect as a function of a total front face which is formed by the electric two-wheeler and the driver and of the determined distance; and generating a motor torque as a function of the slipstream effect and/or of the determined distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Gregor DASBACH, Philipp KOHLRAUSCH
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Publication number: 20170144726Abstract: A bicycle control device controls a motor to assist driving of a wheel of a bicycle. The bicycle control device includes a controller configured to control the motor and an operation unit configured to be operated to switch operation modes of the motor. The controller includes at least a walk mode as the operation modes. In a case that a rotation speed of a wheel becomes lower than or equal to a predetermined value while the motor is driven in the walk mode, the controller is configured to control the motor so as to gradually decrease output of the motor and then stop driving the motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Hiroyuki MIYOSHI, Jun GAO, Makoto USUI, Yasuhiro TSUCHIZAWA
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Publication number: 20170144727Abstract: A bicycle control device controls a motor to assist driving of a wheel of a bicycle. The bicycle control device includes an input unit and a controller that switches, when the input unit is operated, between a ride mode that controls the motor in correspondence with manual driving force and a walk mode that drives the motor in correspondence with the operation of the input unit. After switching to the walk mode, the controller drives the motor in correspondence with the operation of the input unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Hiroyuki MIYOSHI, Jun GAO, Makoto USUI, Yasuhiro TSUCHIZAWA
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Publication number: 20170144728Abstract: A bicycle comprising a front wheel and a rear wheel supporting a frame. A bottom bracket of the frame defines a first axis, a second axis and a third axis. A pedal crank assembly is supported for rotation about the first axis and includes a first driven gear and a first drive gear. A second gear is supported for rotation about the second axis. A third driven gear and a third drive gear are supported for rotation about the third axis. An electric motor drives the first driven gear and the first drive gear rotates in response to rotation of the first driven gear. The first drive gear engages and rotates the second gear, which drives the third driven gear. The third drive gear rotates in response to rotation of the third driven gear. The third drive gear is rotationally coupled to the rear wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Gary Silva
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Publication number: 20170144729Abstract: A bicycle including a frame that has a head tube, and a frame member that is elongated along a longitudinal axis. The bicycle also includes a receiver that is disposed in the frame member, and a battery pack that is coupled to the frame member and detachably connected to the receiver. The receiver has a tapered socket and a power connector encircled by the tapered socket. The battery pack has a tapered end cap that is insertable into the tapered socket along the longitudinal axis. The tapered end cap includes a battery connector disposed on an end of the battery pack. The tapered end cap is at least partially nested within the tapered socket along the longitudinal axis upon connection between the receiver and the battery pack, and the battery connector is electrically connected to the power connector upon nesting the tapered end cap in the tapered socket.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Jan Talavasek, Amber R. Lucas, Ian Hamilton, Robert F. Meyer, Markus Spenninger
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Publication number: 20170144730Abstract: A cleat having an adjustable anchoring system configured to suspend a bumper. The cleat has a first horn located opposite a second horn. A support structure is connected to the cleat. A recess of the support structure has a ridge protruding from a wall surface of the recess. The ridge is configured to deform a portion of rope. A bore of the support structure is configured to receive a fastener. A base has a bore configured to receive the fastener. The bore of the support structure is oriented to align with the bore of the base. The base has two ramps that protrude from a wall surface of a recess of the base. The two ramps form a pocket that can have a protrusion configured to bind a portion of the rope when the fastener is tightened.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Steven Miller, Timo Pascal Kommerling
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Publication number: 20170144731Abstract: The present invention is related to a gravitation anchor for offshore anchoring of ships and platforms, comprising a main body (10) with a longitudinal axis of revolution (11), comprising a means of stabilization (14), whereby the means of stabilization (14) comprises a means of automatic activation (140). Optionally, the means of stabilization comprises at least one stabilizer (14), whereby each stabilizer (14) comprises an end pivotally attached (141) to the gravitation anchor (1), and a free end, whereby when the stabilizer (14) is in a retracted position, the free end is positioned closer to the main body (10) of the gravitation anchor (1), and whereby when the stabilizer (14) is in an extended position, the free end is positioned away from the main body (10) of the gravitation anchor (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicants: PETROLEO BRASILEIRO S.A. - PETROBRAS, UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO RIO DE JANEIROInventors: Daniel Fonseca DE CARVALHO E SILVA, Marcos Donato Auler DA SILVA FERREIRA, Antonio Carlos FERNANDES
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Publication number: 20170144732Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a system and method for installing a tubular element, such as a suction pile, in a bottom of a body of water. The system comprises a tubular element and a deintensifier in fluid communication with the tubular element. The deintensifier is configured to be exposed to an ambient pressure external to the tubular element and reduce pressure within the tubular element. The method comprises lowering the tubular element to the bottom of the body of water, filling the tubular element with water at ambient pressure, and exposing the water within the tubular element to a deintensified external ambient pressure so as to withdraw the water out of the tubular element.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicants: Shell Oil Company, Cameron International CorporationInventors: Johannes van Wijk, Melvin F. Whitby
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Publication number: 20170144733Abstract: The present invention relates to: a liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tank, which has insulating wall securing devices for the LNG storage tank installed at the optimum position, thus is stable with respect to thermal contraction, and may require a minimum number of insulating wall securing devices; and an insulating wall securing device for an LNG storage tank. One embodiment of the present invention provides a storage tank for storing LNG therein, comprising: a first sealing wall coming into contact with the LNG stored in the storage tank, for liquid-tight sealing the LNG; a first insulating wall; a second insulating wall disposed in the inner wall of the storage tank; a plurality of first insulating wall securing devices for securing the first insulating wall and the second insulating wall, wherein the plurality of first insulating wall securing devices are provided at the vertex of the first insulating wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicant: DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING & MARINE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.Inventors: Haeng Sung HEO, Joong Kyoo KANG
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Publication number: 20170144734Abstract: A ride height adjustable oil damped air shock boat seat pedestal with selectively lockable swivel capability is shown, which includes a locking pin extending below the seat and moving up and down with the seat as permitted and controlled by the air shock. The locking pin being received by a structure, which limits rotation of the seat.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Lee Falck, Kyle Ridlon
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Publication number: 20170144735Abstract: A foldable recreational board that can be formed into a ridable board for riding and then folded when finished for easy transportation or storage. The foldable recreational board has foam sections covered by a flexible skin. The flexible skin includes a closing and opening mechanism. When the closing and opening mechanism is closed the skin is held very tight around the foam sections so that the foam sections are squeezed together tightly to form a ridable board. When the closing and opening mechanism is opened, pressure is released from the foam sections and the recreational board can be folded. In a preferred embodiment there are three foam sections and the opening and closing mechanism is two zippers attached to a ½ inch thick flexible neoprene skin.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2017Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Joe Sciarra
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Publication number: 20170144736Abstract: A swimming wearable device comprises an upper body wearable device (100) and a lower limb wearable device (2). The upper body wearable device (100) comprises an electronic airbag (11) and the lower limb wearable device (2) comprises a muscle condition monitoring device (21). The muscle condition monitoring device (21) is connected by signal with the upper body wearable device (100) or with the electronic airbag (11) of the upper body wearable device (100). When detecting a muscle spasm in lower limb, the muscle condition monitoring device (21) sends a signal to the upper body wearable device (100) or the electronic airbag (11) of the upper body wearable device (100), so as to make the upper body wearable device (100) activate the electronic airbag (11) to open or to activate the electronic airbag (11) to open. The swimming wearable device can provide certain buoyancy for the swimmer at the occurrence of muscle cramp, thereby reducing drowning accidents and improve safety of swimming exercise.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2015Publication date: May 25, 2017Applicants: BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd., BOE Optical Science and Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Feng ZHOU, Chunlei CAO
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Publication number: 20170144737Abstract: An underwater positioning system for scuba divers includes a base station having an underwater transmitter and receiver for sending and receiving underwater signals. The system also includes at least one diver unit having a scuba-style mask with a plurality of receivers for detecting the transmitted base signal. A diver display is positioned within the inside facing portion of the mask for indicating the direction of the base station. The diver unit also includes a transmitter for sending an emergency SOS signal to the base station and other diver units.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Ekaterina Erikson
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Publication number: 20170144738Abstract: A snorkel, including at least one tube, for allowing a user to flow air between a top opening disposed above the water level, and a bottom opening ending with a breathing piece disposed below the water level, a float fixed to the at least one tube, for maintaining the top opening above the water level, while being attached to the user and as well while being separated therefrom, and a valve assembly, disposed adjacent to the breathing piece and communicating therewith, for not allowing water to enter the breathing piece, thereby allowing the user to separate himself from the snorkel, and further to safely attach himself thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventor: Cheinan POLAK
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Publication number: 20170144739Abstract: A retractable thruster for a swimming vessel is provided, wherein the retractable thruster includes a propeller and a lifting and lowering arrangement which is configured to vertically move the propeller between a retracted position and an ejected position. In the retracted position the propeller is substantially inside a bottom well of the swimming vessel and in the ejected position the propeller is substantially outside the bottom well. The retractable thruster includes a water-permeable protective element configured to be located inside the bottom well above the propeller and configured to vertically move with the propeller. In the ejected position the water-permeable protective element is configured to substantially prevent loose ice from drifting inside the bottom well through the water-permeable protective element and when the propeller is moved from the retracted position to the ejected position, the water-permeable protective element is configured to push ice out of the bottom well.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2016Publication date: May 25, 2017Inventors: Karl Emil Arvid Ramstedt, Ilkka Erik Wihlman