Patents Issued in December 7, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170349217
    Abstract: [Object] There is provided a long structural member made of metal, which has a substantially gutter-shaped cross section and is excellent in load transfer properties when an impact load is applied. [Solution] A structural member made of metal, formed so as to extend long in a predetermined direction, and having a gutter bottom, two ridges continuing to both ends in a width direction of the gutter bottom, and two vertical walls continuing to the two ridges, includes an outward continuous flange continuously formed at least along the gutter bottom, the ridges, and the vertical walls at an end in the predetermined direction, in which a width of the gutter bottom is reduced as a distance from the end having the outward continuous flange becomes larger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: NIPPON STEEL & SUMITOMO METAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenichiro OTSUKA, Yoshiaki NAKAZAWA, Ryuichi NISHIMURA, Yasuhiro ITO
  • Publication number: 20170349218
    Abstract: An instrument panel reinforcement in a tubular shape according to one aspect comprises a large-diameter portion that supports a steering column, a small-diameter portion that has an outer diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the large-diameter portion and has a thickness smaller than a thickness of the large-diameter portion, and an intermediate portion that is arranged between the large-diameter portion and the small-diameter portion. The intermediate portion is formed integrally with the large-diameter portion and has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the large-diameter portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Ryuzo Nishimura, Yusuke Asai, Yoshinori Takeuchi, Kotaro Tsuda
  • Publication number: 20170349219
    Abstract: The present invention has as its object the provision of a T-shaped joint structure sufficiently securing a mounting region for another member and securing rigidity of a joint part. A first member and a second member joined with the first member and extending in a direction vertical to the longitudinal direction of the first member are provided. In a side view of first member in the longitudinal direction, the part of the first member joined with the second member, that is, a first member side joining element, is slanted from the first member toward the second member so that the first member becomes tapered. The part of the second member joined with the first member, that is, a second member side joining element, is slanted from the first member toward the second member in the same direction as the first member side joining element. The first member side joining element and second member side joining element are smoothly joined to form a joined part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: NIPPON STEEL & SUMITOMO METAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takeshi KAWACHI, Yoshiaki NAKAZAWA, Masahito TASAKA
  • Publication number: 20170349220
    Abstract: A different material joining structure has: a first panel made of a first metal material; a second panel made of a second metal material that has a higher conductivity than that of the first panel, is different from the first metal material, and at least a part of which faces the first panel; and a rivet for joining the first panel and the second panel, wherein the rivet is made of the first material, and includes a head portion that is embedded in the second panel in a non-penetrating manner and a bottom portion that abuts on the first panel, and wherein a nugget portion as a joint portion is disposed between the first panel and the bottom portion, the nugget portion being formed by resistance welding the rivet to the first portion with the rivet disposed between the first panel and the second panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2014
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Takayuki YAMADA, Yasumasa HYODO
  • Publication number: 20170349221
    Abstract: The present invention is provided with a roof side rail, a side outer panel that is formed of a dissimilar metal material having a higher electrical conductivity than the roof side rail, and a metal layer that is formed of the same metal material as the roof side rail and is disposed between the roof side rail and the side outer panel. Forming a nugget, which is a joint portion, between the roof side rail and the metal layer by carrying out resistance welding with the metal coating disposed between the roof side rail and the side outer panel makes it possible to accommodate the enhanced strength of an iron member and to render prepared hole processing unnecessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2014
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Takayuki YAMADA, Isao SAITO
  • Publication number: 20170349222
    Abstract: A molded automotive textile nonwoven and its associated method of manufacturing includes flat staple fibers exhibiting a width to thickness ratio of 2 to 10 and a denier in the range of 2 to 30. The molded automotive textile non-woven is a three-dimensional (3D) structure that includes one or a plurality of protrusions or recesses which fits to the metallic vehicle floor pan of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Kenneth Mitchell WHITESELL, JR., Sean Bracken SIMMONS, Ernest Franklin WILSON
  • Publication number: 20170349223
    Abstract: An apparatus for extending a vehicle bed includes a tailgate having first and second retractable members adapted for being recessed within the tailgate and for projecting therefrom in an extended position when the tailgate is lowered. A removable support is provided for connecting with the first and second retractable members in the extended position for extending the vehicle bed. The removable support may comprise a ladder supported by the tailgate. The ladder may assume a lowered position for use in stepping onto the tailgate using the retractable members as handles and a raised position substantially aligned with the retractable members for extending the vehicle bed. The removable support may also comprise a cross bar that connects with the retractable members to form the bed extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Brian Robert Spahn, Pattrick Loew
  • Publication number: 20170349224
    Abstract: A semitrailer underbody screen and wheel-set fairing kit comprises several panels and fairings for retrofitting on conventional semitrailers. A sectioned panel like fish scales covers the dozens of transverse I-beam cross-members positioned underneath conventional enclosed trailer floors, and carries on down the length of the underbody. A v-hull air deflector is set just beneath these panel covers, ahead of the semitrailer's undercarriage, suspension and tandem rear axle wheels. Such v-hull air deflector splits and aerodynamically “flows” the air being pushed ahead outwards to the sides and around the wheels. The tandem rear axle wheels themselves are completely boxed inside full fenders that cowl over the front, sides, top, and rear. Removable access panels are provided on the outsides of the full fender units for wheel and tire maintenance. The result is significantly less wind drag and noise at highway cruising speeds. Less drag means better fuel economy for the tractor operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Nikolai Logounov
  • Publication number: 20170349225
    Abstract: A cart for transport and storage of items, including odd-size or over-size luggage of airline passengers, comprises a chassis comprising a plurality of wheels, and a storage section comprising at least one shelf. A drawer is provided below the storage section, the drawer comprising a compartment, which is inaccessible when the drawer is in a closed state, in which the drawer is overlapped by a bottom portion of the storage section. The compartment is accessible when the drawer is in an open state, in which the drawer is extracted from and extends beyond the bottom portion of the storage section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: BBHS A/S
    Inventor: Lars THØGERSEN
  • Publication number: 20170349226
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a trailer assembly for transporting a plurality of proppant containers along a roadway, and associated methods. The trailer assembly includes a skeletal frame having open areas between structural components to enhance weight reduction of the frame, and first, second, third, and connector sections. Additionally, the frame includes a pair of spaced-apart side rails and three or more wheel and axle assemblies to facilitate movement of the trailer assembly. The trailer assembly includes a first pair of outriggers coupled to and arranged transverse the pair of side rails, and a second pair of outriggers arranged proximate the first pair of outriggers. The outriggers have a coupling element positioned at each distal end to engage and secure a proppant container of the plurality of proppant containers to the trailer assembly. Each distal end is positioned to extend outwardly from an axis of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: John Oren, Joshua Oren
  • Publication number: 20170349227
    Abstract: A recreational off-highway vehicle includes side-by-side passenger and driver seats held within a chassis that is approximately 50 inches wide. The seats sit low in the chassis and are covered by a roll cage. Grab handles are positioned on the sides of the passenger seat. Select large round tubing protects the vehicle, while rectangular tubing frames the portions of the vehicle beneath body panels. The vehicle is powered by an engine rearward of the seats that is connected to a transaxle. The engine and transaxle are isolation mounted together with a portion of the air intake assembly. The vehicle is suited for rough terrain travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Jared Spindler, Mark Esala, Derek Sorenson, Peter Schoenecker, Brian Eck, Andrew Hulstein, Scott Mazour, John Seal, Craig Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20170349228
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for conveying a vehicle component to a vehicle body with a robot device in an assembly station. The assembly station includes a provisioning position in which the vehicle component is provisioned for conveying to the vehicle body. The assembly station further includes a final assembly location at which the vehicle component is final-assembled on the vehicle body. The robot device grips the vehicle component in the provisioning position and conveys the vehicle component to the final assembly location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Sascha HAHN, Uwe HÜTTENMÜLLER, Uwe LEERS, Steve GEINITZ, Manuela PATZ, Dirk KLEE, Steffen LEHMANN, Norbert POSSNER
  • Publication number: 20170349229
    Abstract: A bicycle beverage cup holder and method features spaced flexible concave arms each having a distal end. There is a gap between the distal ends of the arms. A bracket secures the spaced concave arms to a bicycle handlebar. A stretchable band is operatively disposed across the gap to accommodate different size beverage cups and to secure them in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Errol Drew, Natalie Mukhtar
  • Publication number: 20170349230
    Abstract: An electric vehicle may include a board having two deck portions each configured to receive a foot of a rider, and a wheel assembly disposed between the deck portions. A motor assembly may drive the wheel assembly in response to board orientation and rider presence information. A rider detection mechanism may include one or more strain gauges, and may be configured to detect rider presence and rider weight information. A responsiveness of the motor may be automatically adjusted based on the rider weight information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: Future Motion, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Jonathan DOERKSEN, Daniel WOOD
  • Publication number: 20170349231
    Abstract: A self-balancing electric vehicle may include an elongate platform having a first foot placement section and a second foot placement section rigidly coupled to each other, a first and second wheel being respectively coupled to opposite ends of the platform. Rider presence and turning intentions may be determined based on strain induced in the platform by the rider. The strain may be detected by one or more strain gauge systems. One of the strain gauge systems may be configured for use in a steering control circuit, and may include a strain gauge sensor mounted diagonally with respect to a long axis of the platform, such that the strain gauge detects only twist-induced strain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: Focus Designs Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. WOOD
  • Publication number: 20170349232
    Abstract: An engine unit of a motorcycle includes a crankshaft, a piston, and a swing member. The crankshaft is housed in a crankcase in a direction such that a rotational center line is parallel to a vehicle-width direction. The piston is disposed above the crankshaft and reciprocates in an approximately up-down direction. The swing member is disposed forward of the crankshaft and the piston, coupled to the crankshaft by a coupling member, and swings in an approximately front-rear direction synchronized with a rotation of the crankshaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hisashi OZEKI
  • Publication number: 20170349233
    Abstract: A vehicle, such as a straddle-type vehicle, can include an engine, a catalyst and an air cleaner. The catalyst can be disposed in an expansion chamber of the vehicle. At least a part of the air cleaner can be disposed above a swing arm of the vehicle, and at least a part of the expansion chamber can be disposed below the swing arm. The air cleaner can further be disposed to the rear of a shock absorber of the vehicle. Thus, the influence of heat from the catalyst and the engine on the air cleaner can be reduced. Consequently, efficiency of air induction into the engine can be increased, thereby improving engine output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masami MIZUTANI, Toshio IIZUKA
  • Publication number: 20170349234
    Abstract: A bicycle control device includes a housing member disposed at a handlebar of a bicycle and a lever including a first portion pivotally connected to the housing member, a second portion connected to the first portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion. The shortest line between two opposite ends of the first portion forms a first long side, and a projection of the first long side on a first plane is parallel to a first extension direction. The shortest lines between two opposite ends of the second portion and those of the third portion form a second long side and a third long side, respectively; and projections of the second and third long sides on the first plane is parallel to a second extension direction and a third extension direction. An angle between the first extension direction and the second extension direction ranges from 8° to 15°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Alfredo Sala
  • Publication number: 20170349235
    Abstract: A quick-release device of a bicycle is provided for being connected to a first fork arm and a second fork arm of a frame and includes a rod member, an abutting unit and a screwing unit. The rod member is for being disposed through the first and second fork arms. The abutting unit is arranged on one of two ends of the rod member and for optionally tightly abutting against the first fork arm. The screwing unit is arranged on the other of the two ends of the rod member for being adjustable positioned on the second fork arm and has a first threaded section, and a thread pitch of the first threaded section is at least greater than or equal to 2 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Jens Buder
  • Publication number: 20170349236
    Abstract: A control method comprises at least one detection of activation of the pushing aid. When activation is detected, in the subsequent step a velocity of the electric vehicle and/or a constant starting torque are/is generated by actuation of the electric motor. The generated velocity of the pushing aid as a result of the actuation is dependent on the engaged transmission ratio of the gearshift. In order to adapt the velocity, the control method comprises sensing the current motor rotational speed of the electric motor and sensing the current velocity of the electric bicycle. The engaged transmission ratio is determined as a function of the sensed motor rotational speed and the sensed velocity. The adaptation of the velocity of the electric bicycle occurs in the subsequent step as a result of regulation of the electric motor as a function of the transmission ratio and the maximum velocity, which is not exceeded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Daniel Baumgaertner, Rinaldo Greiner
  • Publication number: 20170349237
    Abstract: An automatic transmission[100] system for controlling application of a power source [160] onto a driven-wheel [110] comprises at least two gear-sets [200] mounted on at least one mediating-disk [120], where the mediating-disks [120] are mounted on a dead-axle shaft [210]. The gear-sets [200] has (a) an output-wheel [130] connected to the power source [160] and revolves accordantly; diameter of the output-wheel [130] configured to set transmission-ratio of angular-velocity and torque to be applied to the driven-wheel [110]; the output-wheel [130] is mounted on the dead-axle shaft [210] and set side by side with the mediating-disk [120]; and (b) an Angular-Velocity Engagement Module configured for automatic engagement and disengagement of the output-wheel [130] with the driven-wheel [110]. Each of the output wheels [130] has different diameter, configured for different transmission-ratio of angular-velocity and torque to be applied to the driven-wheel [110].
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicants: POPPER TECHNOLOGIES (1983) LTD.
    Inventors: Ziv Achituv POPPER, Boaz Jachin POPPER
  • Publication number: 20170349238
    Abstract: A bicycle operating device comprises a base member, a first operating structure, a second operating structure, and a prevention member. The first operating structure comprises a first take-up member, a first operating member, and a first actuating member. The second operating structure comprises a second take-up member and a second operating member. The prevention member is configured to move together with the second operating member to prevent the first actuating member from actuating the first take-up member to move in at least one of a first pulling actuation direction and a first releasing actuation direction during a movement of the first operating member from a first rest position toward a first operated position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Kentaro MIYAZAKI, Kazutaka FUKAO
  • Publication number: 20170349239
    Abstract: A skid frame for a snowmobile is disclosed including a generally planar skid surface extending between front and rear idler wheels. The front and rear idler wheel are offset from one another and define a longitudinal direction. A track encircles the skid frame having the skid surface positioned over a center of the track such that a major longitudinally extending portion of the track that is coextensive with the skid surface has first and second unsupported lateral portions on either side of the skid surface. The first and second unsupported lateral portions extend in the horizontal direction at least 25 percent of a width of the track. A suspension arm member may mount the skid rail and include mount portions for mounting to a tunnel and spanning a distance at least twice the width of the longitudinal beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Andrew Beavis
  • Publication number: 20170349240
    Abstract: A system and method for the application and thermal curing of specialized vessel deck coatings is disclosed. A system capable of controlling environmental conditions is assembled on the deck of a vessel and utilized to control conditions within the system during application and curing of deck coatings is disclosed. A method of utilizing a system capable of controlling environmental conditions during the pretreatment, treatment and curing phases of specialized vessel deck coatings is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Christopher William Fertig
  • Publication number: 20170349241
    Abstract: An awning for a boat is operable between retracted and extended positions and includes a frame structure having left and right telescopically extendable and retractable tube assemblies each having a fixed tube, a telescopic mid tube and a telescopic end tube. Cross tubes extend transversely between each of the mid tubes and the end tubes. A canvas roller is mounted transversely between the fixed tubes. A sheet of marine canvas is secured to the roller and the end cross tube and is rolled onto the roller when the awning is retracted. A gear box disengages the canvas roller to allow the telescoping tube assemblies and canvas to be manually extended. To retract the awning, the gear box is engaged with the canvas roller and a removable crank handle is operated to rotate the roller and roll up the canvas as the frame structure is telescopically retracted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: John Cao
  • Publication number: 20170349242
    Abstract: A cantilevered canopy structure includes at least one vertical support having a first and second upper support joint. The structure further includes at least one first and second horizontal support. The first horizontal support is affixed to the vertical supports at the first upper support joint. The second horizontal support is affixed to the vertical supports at the second upper support joint. The structure further includes cantilever supports. The cantilever support is affixed to the first and second horizontal supports. The structure further includes at least one horizontal frame member. The horizontal frame member is affixed to the cantilever supports at a cantilever frame joint. The first upper support joint is located higher than the second upper support joint. The first upper support joint and second upper support joints are distal, in opposing directions, from the vertical support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Kerry Levin
  • Publication number: 20170349243
    Abstract: A mooring tensioning arrangement for a floating structure or vessel (11), comprising an anchor (2), a mooring line (3), a mooring tensioner (4) and a working line (5), said mooring tensioner (4) having a tensioning pulley (20). A tensioning force is imposed on said mooring line (3), which is directed towards said floating structure or vessel (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: SCANA OFFSHORE AS
    Inventor: Torkjell LISLAND
  • Publication number: 20170349244
    Abstract: A privacy enclosure separate from the vessel hold and having at least one entranceway accessible from outside the hold of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Anthony KALIL
  • Publication number: 20170349245
    Abstract: A floating body includes a main body having first and second surfaces opposite to each other and a first side surface connecting the first and second surfaces and first and second joining parts located on the first side surface to be opposite to each other in a first direction parallel to a ridge line defined by the first surface and the first side surface. The first and second joining parts each include a first portion located on the first side surface and a second portion connected to the first portion to face the first side surface. End portions of the first and second joining parts face each other. A minimum distance between the end portions is greater than twice a width of the second portion in the first direction, and is smaller than a minimum distance between the first portions of the first and second joining parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Mitsuo YAMASHITA
  • Publication number: 20170349246
    Abstract: A motorized hydrofoil apparatus may include a sailboard having a top surface and a bottom surface; a first hydrofoil assembly having a first hydrofoil and a first support unit; a second hydrofoil assembly having a second hydrofoil and a second support unit; and a propulsion system. The hydrofoil apparatus may also include one or more sensing units disposed on predetermined locations on the first support unit to operatively communicate to a plurality of actuating units on the first hydrofoil assembly and second hydrofoil assembly to automatically generate corrective responses to various destabilizing hydrodynamic effects to stabilize the hydrofoil apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Yu Tian
  • Publication number: 20170349247
    Abstract: A wake control system aft of the driveshaft, propeller, and rudder of a vessel includes a fin base and at least one fin slidingly engaged with the fin base. The fin(s) are vertically oriented and extend down into the water surface. The fins are transversely adjustable along the fin base to redirect a wake generated by the boat. In other embodiments, the control system comprises a starboard fin tab adjacent to a port fin tab, each of the independent fin tabs hingeably attached to the aft section of the hull, at the transom. Each fin tab includes at least one extending fin. Fin tabs are selectively deployable and retractable into and out of the water surface to redirect a wake generated by the vessel from one side to the other. A novel underwater exhaust system redirects exhaust depending on speed of the vessel and complements the wake control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick Herrington, Adam Shook, Thomas John "TJ" O'Grady, Thomas O'Grady
  • Publication number: 20170349248
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electronic visual distress signal device or emergency beacon. Specifically, the visual distress signal device has a housing containing a power source and an electronic assembly that is operably coupled to the power source The electronic assembly includes a light source so that when the power source and the electronic assembly form a closed circuit, the light source is activated. The light source may be configured to emit an SOS signal. Furthermore, the device may include a lens member that is configured to refract light emitted by the light source in at least two separate patterns including a 360 degree horizontal pattern and a vertical pattern. The visual distress device may include a float member formed of compressible foam to permit the device to float when placed in water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Anthony W. Covelli, Robert B. Simons, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20170349249
    Abstract: A multi-layer wetsuit material comprises: an inner fabric layer adjacent to a wearer's skin, an aluminum-foil layer adhered on the inner fabric layer, a rubber or neoprene foam layer adhered to the aluminum-foil layer, and an outer fabric layer opposite to the inner fabric layer adhered on the rubber foam layer, whereby the aluminum-foil layer will reflect the body heat, as radiated from the wearer's skin, backwards towards the wearer's skin to keep the wearer warm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Jeff Heng-Wen Shiue
  • Publication number: 20170349250
    Abstract: An method for ice fishing using a submersible vehicle assembly and underwater powered observation system using a camera and source of light of a green laser to be directed to the underside of ice so as to locate the vehicle assembly and allow the user to cut a hole in the ice at or near fish. In this manner the vehicle assembly may be utilized for the underwater tasks of locating fish and/or observing fish under the ice. Additional features include identifying water temperature and depth information that may be displayed on the control unit, a hydrophobic coating preventing ice buildup, and a stand adaptable for resting on the bottom during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: New Wave Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Cam HABEGER
  • Publication number: 20170349251
    Abstract: An underwater mobile inspection apparatus capable of inspecting an inspection object on a seafloor while cruising includes a cruising body configured to submerge under-water and cruise along the inspection object so as to not come into contact with the inspection object, a first movable arm provided on the cruising-body, and an inspection tool unit provided on the first movable arm and including at least one of an image-capturing camera for use in visually inspecting the inspection object and a device configured to inspect a wall thickness of the inspection object by using an ultrasonic wave. A controller is configured to, when the cruising-body cruises along the inspection object so as to not come into contact with the inspection object, operate the first movable arm to move the inspection tool unit, such that a positional relationship of the inspection tool unit with the inspection object becomes a predetermined target positional relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Akira KIMURA, Noriyuki OKAYA, Kazuya SUMINO, Minehiko MUKAIDA, Hiroaki KAGAYA, Masanori HAMAMATSU, Akiyoshi SAIKI, Tetsuya KUBOTA, Masayuki ENOMOTO
  • Publication number: 20170349252
    Abstract: An apparatus includes first and second tanks each configured to receive and store a refrigerant under pressure. The apparatus also includes at least one generator configured to receive flows of the refrigerant between the tanks and to generate electrical power based on the flows of the refrigerant. The apparatus further includes first and second hydraulic drives associated with the first and second tanks, respectively. Each hydraulic drive includes a first piston within the associated tank, a channel fluidly coupled to the associated tank and configured to contain hydraulic fluid, and a second piston within the channel and configured to move within the channel in order to vary an amount of the hydraulic fluid within the associated tank and vary a position of the first piston within the associated tank. The channel of each hydraulic drive has a cross-sectional area that is less than a cross-sectional area of the associated tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Gregory W. Heinen
  • Publication number: 20170349253
    Abstract: The present invention relates to two configurations of structure for a compact, pedal-propelled boat, a recumbent configuration and a conventional configuration, and to two possible propulsion systems, one with rigid transmission system and other with flexible transmission system. Both configurations are used with hulls arranged in parallel, catamaran configuration, preferably inflatable, allowing the volume and size of the assembly to be reduced so as to fit in a car trunk, making it easier to transport and store. In the recumbent configuration, the boat driver is in a sitting position, with his back supported by the seat, and actuates the pedals located in the front part of the structure while maneuvers the boat by means of handlebars located on the sides of the structure. In the conventional configuration, the boat driver is in the same position as the rider of a conventional bicycle, and the seat, pedals and handlebar are arranged in the same positions as in a bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: MATEUS FROIS SANTA CATARINA
  • Publication number: 20170349254
    Abstract: A high strength safety tether adapted to restrain motor flipping in the event of an underwater strike between the motor and an underwater object. In one embodiment the tether is sized to generally surround the exhaust housing of the motor. The free ends of the tether are adapted to be bolted to the transom of the boat. In another embodiment a second leash is attached to a first leash so that the first leash surrounds the steering arm assembly and the second leash surrounds the exhaust housing of the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Roy John Grohler
  • Publication number: 20170349255
    Abstract: An outboard motor mount and side-mount accessory adapter to mount an outboard motor and an accessory to the transom of a boat wherein the outboard motor mount includes a transom mounting plate to secure the outboard motor mount to the transom and an adapter mounting plate extending outwardly from the transom mounting plate and wherein the side-mount accessory adapter includes a proximal side-mount adapter mounting plate coupled to the adapter mounting plate and a distal accessory mounting plate to support the accessory thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Brian Drozdowski, Amit Patel
  • Publication number: 20170349256
    Abstract: A vessel propulsion apparatus includes an engine, an electric motor located farther forward than a propeller, a propeller shaft, a first transmission that defines a first transmission path extending from the engine to the propeller shaft to transmit power of the engine to the propeller shaft along the first transmission path, and a second transmission that defines a second transmission path, different from the first transmission path, extending from the electric motor to the propeller shaft to transmit power of the electric motor to the propeller shaft along the second transmission path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: Daisuke NAKAMURA
  • Publication number: 20170349257
    Abstract: For a vessel steering apparatus for performing a movement control to move a vessel to a target position on the basis of a signal of a GPS apparatus, a movement control stop area, a buffer area adjacent to the movement control stop area, and a movement-controlling area adjacent to the buffer area are set on the basis of the distance from the target position, wherein in the movement control stop area, thrust generation by a propulsion apparatus is stopped; in the movement-controlling area, thrust is generated by the propulsion apparatus; and in the buffer area, thrust is generated by the propulsion apparatus of the vessel for movement control only in the case where the vessel moves from the movement-controlling area to the buffer area, then stays in the buffer area, and moves in a direction away from the target position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naohiro HARA, Hiroaki WAKAHARA, Jun WATANABE, Gakuji TAMURA
  • Publication number: 20170349258
    Abstract: A moving body control device includes a moving body direction sensor, a position sensor, and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry estimates a direction of disturbance. The processing circuitry sets a target position and a starting position. The processing circuitry controls a propulsion generator and a movement direction adjuster such that a heading direction sensed by the moving body direction sensor is opposite to the direction of the disturbance estimated by the processing circuitry, and when the moving body has been drifted at least a specific distance from the target position, the moving body returns to the starting position, and the heading direction at the starting position is opposite to the direction of the disturbance. The processing circuitry changes the starting position based on a distance between the target position and a position of the moving body sensed by the position sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2015
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Kazuya KISHIMOTO, Hitoshi MAENO, Masashi IMASAKA
  • Publication number: 20170349259
    Abstract: A marine vessel electronic display system includes a first display station that can include a mode selector for permitting selection of a first mode of operation and a processing system causing displays in the first display station to present information related to the selected first mode of operation. The marine vessel electronic display system may include a second display station that can include a mode selector for permitting a user to select a second mode of operation different from the first mode of operation and a processing system causing a display in the second display station to present information related to the selected second mode of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Darrin W. Kabel, Engelhard B. Sundoro
  • Publication number: 20170349260
    Abstract: The embodiment described herein is a hybrid balloon-multicopter invention. In a similar manner to a multicopter, it incorporates anticlockwise and clockwise rotating rotors to support maneuverability in three dimensional space. However, unlike a multicopter, maneuverability is augmented by the lift force generated by a balloon filled with a lighter than air gas. Furthermore, to support extended day and night operation, one embodiment of the invention includes photovoltaic cells to convert solar energy to electric energy recharging a battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventor: James Richard Lawson
  • Publication number: 20170349261
    Abstract: A decompression panel assembly for use in an aircraft includes a frame including a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the frame defines a grille opening and at least partially defines a flow path opening. The decompression panel assembly also includes a face panel having a first surface retained against the frame second surface such that the face panel at least partially covers the grille opening. A retention mechanism is coupled to the face panel and is configured to retain the face panel against the frame in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Douglas Alan Brown, Adam Robert Weston, Brian Tatsuo Imada
  • Publication number: 20170349262
    Abstract: A decompression panel assembly for use in an aircraft includes a frame including a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the frame defines a grille opening and at least partially defines a flow path opening that are each defined between the first and second surfaces. The decompression panel assembly also includes a first panel and a second panel pivotally coupled together at a central hinge. A retention plate is releasably coupled to the first and second panels and is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. The first and second panels at least partially cover the grille opening in a planar position when the retention plate is in the closed position, and the first and second panels move away from the grille opening to a folded position when the retention plate is in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Douglas Alan Brown, Adam Robert Weston, Brian Tatsuo Imada
  • Publication number: 20170349263
    Abstract: A mono-rail crane system (and a corresponding operation method) for use in an aircraft. The crane system comprises a first longitudinal mono-rail installable on the underside of a rear cargo door of the airplane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rear cargo door; a second longitudinal mono-rail, which is installable on a cargo hold ceiling of the aircraft, and, in the fully opened state of the rear cargo door, in aligned continuity with the first longitudinal mono-rail so that the longitudinal axes of the first and second longitudinal mono-rails coincide to form one common longitudinal axis; a crane mobile equipment configured to be moved along the first and second longitudinal mono-rails in order to hoist and transfer the load; and a linear actuator configured to advance and retreat the second longitudinal monorail towards and away from the first longitudinal monorail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Ana Rubio LOPEZ, Daniel Llanes ARIAS, Oscar MARTINEZ, Ali Lohmann, Ulrich WEISS
  • Publication number: 20170349264
    Abstract: A coupling is disclosed for connecting a propeller to a motor in an aircraft such as a rotary wing aircraft and the like. The coupling comprises a propeller hub having an inner propeller hub bore defining an axial keyway. A rotatable shaft has an internal shaft bore connected for rotation with the motor. A radial key is slidably located in a radial aperture extending through the rotatable shaft. An actuator is slidably mounted within the internal shaft bore of the rotatable shaft. The radial key is received with the axial keyway for securing the propeller hub to the rotatable shaft. A depression of the actuator retracting the radial key relative to an outer surface of the rotatable shaft for permitting the propeller hub bore to be introduced onto the rotatable shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Inventors: Tim Nilson, Daniel Nethery, Austin Holbrook
  • Publication number: 20170349265
    Abstract: A spinner for a gas turbine engine may include a substantially-flat inner surface having frustoconical geometry. A flange having semi-torroidal geometry may extend from the spinner with an inner curved surface of the flange being tangential to the inner surface. A mating portion may extend substantially tangentially from the inner curved surface of the flange and configured for fastening to a fan hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: James J. McPhail, Colin J. Kling
  • Publication number: 20170349266
    Abstract: Systems and methods for operating control surfaces of an aircraft. The method involves receiving, by an aircraft control system from one or more sensors, deflection information related to a shape and motion of an aircraft, and decomposing, by the aircraft control system, the deflection information into a detected modal state including a first known mode having a first mode strength. The method may further involve determining, by the aircraft control system, a first modal compensation based on the first mode strength, and identifying, by the aircraft control system, a desired control corresponding to a second known mode. The method may yet further involve determining a first control response for a control surface having a first modal weight and a second modal weight, based on the first modal compensation and the first modal weight, and determining a second control response for the control surface based on the desired control and the second modal weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 7, 2017
    Applicant: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Krebs, Jonathan Daniel Brandmeyer