Patents Issued in February 1, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180029622
    Abstract: Disclosed here is a customizable caddy assembly system including a platform base with top side and a bottom side; and a plurality of detachable wheels adapted to fit into a plurality of slots on the bottom side of the platform base. The top side of the of the platform base is capable of receiving a storage base that includes a frame, a partition dividing the frame into first and second compartments where each of the first and second compartments includes a cavity formed therein with at least an open top and the partition wall includes an upper portion extending above the level of the frame to form a handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher Stuart, Danielle N. Rodgers, James DeChant, Patrick Foley, Cyril Bennett, Robin Wang
  • Publication number: 20180029623
    Abstract: A pallet sled includes a sled base having wheels. A fork tine assembly extends from the sled base and includes a pair of fork tines. At least one of the pair of fork tines is configured to be secured to a base of a hand cart, such as with a slot or recess. The hand cart can be carried by the fork tine while the fork tines are supporting a pallet loaded with goods thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Dane Gin Mun Kalinowski, Travis James Englert
  • Publication number: 20180029624
    Abstract: Driving wheels and non-driving wheels are installed to a lower portion of a case body. The driving wheels are driven by drive devices, respectively. A control device controls a drive operation of the drive devices. An angle sensing device senses a tilt angle of the case body about a rotational axis of the driving wheels. In a case where the tilt angle of the case body, which is sensed with the angle sensing device, is equal to or larger than a predetermined tilt angle in a state where the driving wheels contact a ground while the non-driving wheels are lifted away from the ground, the control device controls the drive devices in such a manner that the case body is held in a self-standing state with the driving wheels while keeping the non-driving wheel away from the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Takenori MATSUE, Koji KAWASAKI, Michihiro MATSUURA, Masami KUROSAKA, Naoya KATOH
  • Publication number: 20180029625
    Abstract: A basket is detachably mounted on a first mount of a carrier for allowing an infant car seat to be mounted on the carrier. The first mount has a first mounting slot. The basket includes a basket body and a mounting structure. The mounting structure is connected to a side of the basket body. The mounting structure has a body portion, an inserting portion and a mounting portion. The body portion is connected between the mounting portion and the inserting portion. The infant car seat is suspended on a storage space of the basket body when the inserting portion is inserted into the first mounting slot and the infant car seat is mounted on the mounting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Anthony V. Ruggiero, Andrew J. Taylor, Robert E. Haut, Curtis M. Hartenstine
  • Publication number: 20180029626
    Abstract: A device for preventing passive collapse of a steering column comprises a steering column assembly (1). Two sides of a mounting bracket (2) of the steering column assembly (1) are provided with a left side wall plate (2a) of the mounting bracket and a right side wall plate (2b) of the mounting bracket, respectively. One end of the device (A) for preventing passive collapse extends through the two wall plate holes (2c) and is arranged within the mounting bracket (2) of the steering column assembly, and the other end locks a handle metal plate (3a) of an adjusting handle (3) of the steering column. Two collapse prevention grooves (2d) are arranged on the top of the mounting bracket (2). A top protrusion part of the device (A) for preventing passive collapse extends through the two collapse prevention grooves (2d).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Jun JIANG, Ti WAN, Christophe LACAILLE
  • Publication number: 20180029627
    Abstract: A steering device includes a steering column (4a), a support bracket (17a) attachable to a vehicle body to support the steering column, and a tightening mechanism (80). The steering column includes an outer column (11a) and an inner column (10a) partially enclosed by the outer column (11a). The tightening mechanism has a first state in which the steering column is tightened with the support bracket and a second state in which the tightening is released. The outer column includes a first surface (49a) and a second surface (49b) arranged spaced apart from each other in a first direction, which intersects an axial direction, and such that the first surface and the second surface is pressed by the support bracket in the first state, and includes a clamp part (38). The clamp part has a third surface (40) provided independently from the first surface and the second surface and such that the third surface is pressed by the support bracket in the first state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventors: Suguru SUGISHITA, Naoki KABE
  • Publication number: 20180029628
    Abstract: A steering column (4a) is configured such that a rear section of an inner column (10a) disposed on a front side of the steering column and a front section of an outer column (11a) disposed on a rear side of the steering column are displaceably set with respect to each other in an axial direction so that a total length of the steering column can be extended and contracted. A roller (70) is rotatably supported on a lower portion of a front end section of the outer column (11a) by a shoulder bolt (56) disposed in a width direction. An outer circumferential surface of the roller (70) is in contact with a lower surface of the inner column (10a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventor: Suguru SUGISHITA
  • Publication number: 20180029629
    Abstract: Disclosed are vehicle steering column assemblies with viscous dampers, methods for making and for using such assemblies, and motor vehicles with steering column assemblies having viscous dampers. A steering column assembly is disclosed that includes a first shaft member that connects to a steering wheel/handle, and a second shaft member that connects to a vehicle body. These shaft members are telescopingly connected such that one shaft member selectively translates longitudinally with respect to the other shaft member. A viscous damper assembly is interposed between the two shaft members. The viscous damper assembly includes a damper housing with first and second reservoir volumes disposed inside the housing. Multiple constricted flow channels fluidly connect the reservoir volumes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Stebbins, Oliver Eichelhard, Sharath Varadappa
  • Publication number: 20180029630
    Abstract: An adjustable steering column assembly includes a locking assembly having a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member has a first member first surface that defines a first recess and a second recess and has a first member second surface disposed opposite the first member first surface. The second member is disposed opposite the first member. The second member has a second member first surface that faces towards the first member first surface. The second member first surface defines a third recess and a fourth recess and has a second member second surface disposed opposite the second member first surface. The third member is disposed between the first member and the second member. The third member is movable relative to the first member and the second member between a lock position and an unlock position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Ravi Ravindra, Joen C. Bodtker, Michael P. Anspaugh, Donald A. Buzzard, Justin D. Mills
  • Publication number: 20180029631
    Abstract: An intermediate steering shaft for a motor vehicle includes an outer hollow shaft, an inner hollow shaft that is arranged at least partially in the outer hollow shaft, and a profile shaft that is arranged in the outer hollow shaft and connects the outer hollow shaft and the inner hollow shaft to one another. The intermediate steering shaft also includes a plurality of guide arrangements that guide the profile shaft in the outer hollow shaft for displacing the profile shaft and the inner hollow shaft. An elastic element is arranged between a respective guide rail and a receiving section of the profile shaft. The elastic element is configured to provide play compensation for the respective guide arrangement and to transmit a torque that acts from the outer hollow shaft on the guide arrangement to the profile shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Oliver Abonyi
  • Publication number: 20180029632
    Abstract: An electric power steering column assembly includes a steering shaft and a travel stop assembly. The steering shaft has a first end that is configured to attach to a steering wheel. The steering shaft has a second end that extends through a steering actuator. The travel stop assembly engages the second end of the steering shaft. The travel stop assembly is configured to inhibit rotation of the steering shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Joen C. Bodtker, Donald A. Buzzard
  • Publication number: 20180029633
    Abstract: [Problem] An object of the present invention is to provide an electric power steering apparatus that performs a judgment of a manual input during an automatic steering control by an accurate and precise method based on the mechanical equation, and have a steering performance which a driver and a fellow passenger do not feel uncomfortable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventor: Takahiro TSUBAKI
  • Publication number: 20180029634
    Abstract: A torque detection device capable of suppressing intrusion of static electricity thereinto. A magnetism collection unit includes magnetism collection rings, first and second magnetism collection holders that hold the magnetism collection rings, respectively, and a magnetic shield that covers the outer peripheries of the magnetism collection rings. The inner peripheral surface of the first magnetism collection holder is provided wife recessed portions. The outer peripheral surface of the second magnetism collection holder is provided with engagement protrusions to be inserted into the recessed portions. The inner peripheral surface of the second magnetism collection holder is provided with recessed portions. The inner peripheral surface of the first magnetism collection holder is provided with protrusions that project toward the second magnetism collection holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yuichi TOYAMA
  • Publication number: 20180029635
    Abstract: In an electric power steering system, a motor outputs, based on an AC voltage controlled by switching elements using a power-supply voltage from a power source, assist torque for assisting a driver's turning effort of a steering member. A voltage monitor monitors the power-supply voltage, and a determiner determines whether the power-supply voltage is lower than an assistive voltage. The assistive voltage is defined as a voltage that enables the motor to output the assist torque. A temperature detector detects a temperature of each switching element. A motor control unit determines whether the temperature of each switching element is lower than a heat-resistant temperature of the corresponding switching element. The motor control unit controls a motor current when it is determined that the power-supply voltage is lower than the assistive voltage, and the temperature of at least one switching element is lower than the heat-resistant temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Yoshihide KURODA, Haruo SUZUKI
  • Publication number: 20180029636
    Abstract: A steering system for a motor vehicle comprises an electric servomotor, as well as a water ingress detection device, at least one phase line of said servomotor being connected to a detection line for detecting the water level in a water-collecting area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Eugen Sworowski, Alexander Gaedke
  • Publication number: 20180029637
    Abstract: An operation mode of a first actuator engaged with a steering rack is determined. An operation mode of a second actuator engaged with a steering column is determined. The operation mode of one of the first and second actuators is adjusted upon detecting a failure in the other of the first and second actuators. At least one of the steering rack and the steering column is actuated based on the operation mode. In an angle control mode, a predetermined steering angle is provided to the first and second actuators to adjust the steering rack according to the steering angle. In a torque control mode, a steering column torque from a torsion sensor disposed on the steering column is provided to the first and second actuators to adjust the steering rack according to the steering column torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Eric She, Nathaniel Abram Rolfes, William James Bouse
  • Publication number: 20180029638
    Abstract: A torque detection device that further suppresses intrusion of foreign matter into a magnetism collection holder. A first magnetism collection holder has a first ring portion and a substrate housing portion. A second magnetism collection holder has a second ring portion and a substrate housing portion. A pair of flanges are provided on both side surfaces of the substrate housing portion. The substrate housing portion is provided with a partition wall to be fitted between the flanges. A substrate arrangement portion is provided with a partitioning portion and an extended portion. When the substrate housing portion and the substrate housing portion are stacked on each other, the extended portion is fitted with a recessed portion. The substrate arrangement portion is also provided with a partitioning portion. An extended portion to be fitted with the recessed portion is provided at the distal end of the partitioning portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yuichi TOYAMA
  • Publication number: 20180029639
    Abstract: Provided are a lane separation line detection correcting device/method and an automatic driving system for stabilizing the behavior of a vehicle by correcting overestimated curvature information resulting from an erroneous detection of a curvature of a lane separation line. A travel speed detecting circuit detects, for example, a target travel speed as vehicle sensor information. A maximum curvature estimating circuit estimates, based on the target travel speed, a maximum curvature of a road along which an own vehicle is traveling. A curvature correcting circuit corrects a curvature of a lane separation line input thereto based on the maximum curvature. A control unit controls steering of the own vehicle based on the lane separation line having a corrected curvature. As a result, vehicle steering can be automatically controlled so as to prevent the own vehicle while traveling from departing from a driving lane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Takuya TANIGUCHI, Noritaka KOKIDO, Koji IIDA
  • Publication number: 20180029640
    Abstract: Technical solutions are described for facilitating an electric power steering (EPS) system to determine an operating mode of a vehicle that is equipped with the EPS, where the operating mode is indicative of a level of autonomous driving being used by the vehicle. The technical solutions further facilitate detecting a change in the operating mode of the vehicle, and facilitating a transition in computing an assist signal for the EPS system during the transition between the operating modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Otto, Rangarajan Ramanujam, Bhuvanesh Sainath
  • Publication number: 20180029641
    Abstract: A parking assist system for a vehicle includes a camera disposed at a vehicle and having a field of view exterior of the vehicle. An image processor processes image data captured by the camera to determine presence of a wall or object present in the field of view of the camera. A light projecting device is disposed at the vehicle and operable to project a visual pattern toward an area encompassed by the field of view of the camera. During a parking maneuver, and responsive to determination that the vehicle is approaching the wall or object, the parking assist system controls the light projecting device to project the visual pattern toward the determined wall or object. The projected visual pattern is viewable by a driver of the vehicle during the parking maneuver, and the projected visual pattern is indicative of distance between the vehicle and the determined wall or object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Martin Solar
  • Publication number: 20180029642
    Abstract: A method for providing an access option to a vehicle interior of a vehicle parked at a parking position, including receiving an access request for an access to the vehicle interior via a communication network, in response to the received access request, ascertaining unparking data, based on which the vehicle may at least partially leave its parking position, to provide an access option to the vehicle interior by opening a vehicle window and/or a vehicle door, transmitting the ascertained unparking data to the vehicle via the communication network, —receiving a signal via the communication network that the access option is no longer needed, in response to the signal, ascertaining parking data, based on which the vehicle may drive back into its parking position, and transmitting the ascertained parking data to the vehicle via the communication network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Philipp Mayer, Stefan Nordbruch
  • Publication number: 20180029643
    Abstract: A front vehicle-body structure of a vehicle comprises a front frame which extends in a longitudinal direction, an apron reinforcement which is positioned above and on an outward side, in a vehicle width direction, of the front frame and extends in the longitudinal direction, and a suspension housing which is provided to be laid between the front frame and the apron reinforcement and accommodating a suspension therein, wherein the suspension housing includes a narrow-width portion which has the narrowest width in the longitudinal direction in an upper view, and a suspension tower portion where a damper member of the suspension is attached is formed at a portion of the suspension housing which includes the narrow-width portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji MARUYAMA, Kazuki YAMAUCHI, Hidenori MATSUOKA
  • Publication number: 20180029644
    Abstract: A structural reinforcement for a vehicle comprising: a) a carrier having a base wall from which a plurality of projections extend, the plurality of projections including at least one first projection and at least one second projection and the at least one first projection having a height greater than a height of the at least one second projection; b) an activatable material which is heat activatable and affixed to the carrier, configured to secure the carrier in a cavity of the vehicle; wherein in event of an impact, the at least one first projection and second projection are configured to deform toward the base wall and/or in a direction of an impact load in response to the impact load; and the at least one first projection is configured to receive the impact load and deform before the at least one second projection receives the impact load and deforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Liwen Li, Henry E. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20180029645
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a longitudinal beam for a motor vehicle, having a body, of hollow cross section and extending in the longitudinal direction, with a front connection for a cross-member and a rear connection to a motor vehicle body, said longitudinal beam being characterized in that the longitudinal beam is produced from a multi-layer steel having a homogeneous wall thickness as a hot-formed and press-hardened component and has at least one reinforcement patch, wherein the multi-layer steel has a central layer and at least one outer layer made of a ferritic stainless steel alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Henning VON WATZDORF, Georg FROST, Martin SCHROETER
  • Publication number: 20180029646
    Abstract: A vehicle side portion structure including: a rocker that extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction at a vehicle transverse direction outer side of a vehicle body lower portion; a sliding door that slides in the vehicle longitudinal direction, includes a door inner panel, which is connected to the rocker by a door hinge slidable in the vehicle longitudinal direction and which has a mounted-to portion that is lined up in a vehicle transverse direction with the rocker, and includes a door outer panel that is disposed further toward a vehicle transverse direction outer side than the door inner panel; and a load transmitting member that is mounted to the mounted-to portion and transmits a collision load, which is input to the door outer panel from a vehicle side, to a region of the rocker that is different from a region to which the door hinge is connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shunsuke KANAGAI
  • Publication number: 20180029647
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Bernard F. GARCEAU
  • Publication number: 20180029648
    Abstract: A pillar for a motor vehicle bodywork is disclosed having a main element with an upper coupling section for attaching to a roof frame, and a secondary element composed of metallic alloy. The secondary element is connected in a planar fashion at least over certain sections of the main element, and the main element has a middle layer composed of a hardened steel alloy, and at least one outer layer which bounds the middle layer toward the outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Henning VON WATZDORF, Georg FROST, Martin SCHROETER
  • Publication number: 20180029649
    Abstract: A front vehicle-body structure of a vehicle comprises a front frame, an apron reinforcement, and a suspension housing, wherein the front frame includes a frame outer and a frame inner, the frame outer and the frame inner having respective upward projection portions which are joined together to form a flange portion of the front frame, the suspension housing includes an outward-side joint portion which is joined to an outer face of the front frame and an inward-side joint portion which is joined to an outward side face, in the vehicle width direction, of the flange portion, the outward-side joint portion and the inward-side joint portion being aligned in the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kenji MARUYAMA
  • Publication number: 20180029650
    Abstract: Provided is a rear end structure of a vehicle body, with which it is possible to reduce vehicle weight and achieve satisfactory vehicle body rigidity. The rear end structure of a vehicle body is equipped with a floor panel having a low floor part, a high floor part provided rearward of the low floor part, and a floor recess formed in the high floor part and describing a protuberant configuration when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a brace connecting the low floor part and the bottom surface of the floor recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2015
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi TAKAHASHI, Satoru KAWABE, Ken YASUI, Masaaki YAMANE
  • Publication number: 20180029651
    Abstract: A method for performing open-loop or closed-loop control of a driver's cab mount of a motor vehicle, wherein the driver's cab mount has dampers whose damper force can be adjusted, wherein the motor vehicle can be operated a first driving mode in which the motor vehicle automatically carries out vehicle guidance comprising both a longitudinal guidance operation and a transverse guidance operation of the motor vehicle, and in a second driving mode where the motor vehicle can be controlled by the driver, in which driving mode a driver of the motor vehicle is intended to carry out at least part of the vehicle guidance himself, wherein when the motor vehicle is operated in the first driving mode, the adjustable dampers of the driver's cab mount are actuated or adjusted in such a way that pitching or rolling movements are reduced compared to the second driving mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Philipp WAGNER, Jan FLEISCHHACKER, Christian KOHRS
  • Publication number: 20180029652
    Abstract: An arrangement for pivotally coupling a saddle member of a main frame with an equalizer bar of a machine. The saddle member includes one or more bores. The equalizer bar includes a central portion. The arrangement includes a pin and one or more bearings. The pin extends through each of the one or more bores and couples the saddle member with the central portion of the equalizer bar. The one or more bearings positioned inside each of the one or more bores for rotatably supporting the pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Vijay Loganathan, Florentin Tatarus, Kelly Ann Scholz, Gail Francis Westendorf
  • Publication number: 20180029653
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a track link comprises creating a rail portion of a track link from a high alloy steel, creating a main body portion of a track link from a low alloy steel, and friction adhering the rail portion onto the main body portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Eric James Johannsen
  • Publication number: 20180029654
    Abstract: A bulkhead assembly for a track adjust cylinder of an undercarriage system is provided. The bulkhead assembly includes a bulkhead having an opening to receive the track adjust cylinder. A guide element having a hollow cylindrical configuration is attached to the bulkhead and supports the track adjust cylinder. A seal member is axially aligned with respect to the guide element. The seal member has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the guide element. A set of composite bearings is axially aligned with respect to the seal member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: John Bradley Edelin, Dewakar Venkata Jonnakuti, Ronald Jerome Maier
  • Publication number: 20180029655
    Abstract: A stabilizing structure for increasing structural stability of a trailer is provided. The stabilizing structure includes one or more stabilizing units having tension cables and coupling mounts connecting the tension cables to a bottom frame of the trailer. The tension cables are arranged such that a first tension cable overlaps a second tension cable. The tension cables may have threaded ends that are connected to the coupling mounts. A support plate may be provided wherein the support plate is positioned at an intersection of the two tension cables such that a first tension cable is below the support plate and a second tension cable is above the support plate. A single support plate may connect tension cables of adjacent stabilizing units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas H. Fry
  • Publication number: 20180029656
    Abstract: A modular trailer system is disclosed. The system may include variously configured modular rails, tie down systems, fender mounting systems, cable fences, modular ramps, and/or mountable accessories whereby the versatile trailer system may be readily reconfigured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: PJ Trailers, Inc.
    Inventor: Aaron Neil Barnes
  • Publication number: 20180029657
    Abstract: A lifting mechanism includes a load bearing structure, and a carrier. The carrier is configured for supporting a load. The carrier is moveable relative to the load bearing structure in a substantially vertical direction relative to a ground surface, along a vertical axis. A load carrying spring applies a spring force that biases the carrier relative to the load bearing structure in a direction along the vertical axis. A negative stiffness device interconnects the carrier and the load bearing structure. The negative stiffness device applies a device force that biases the carrier relative to the load bearing structure in a direction along the vertical axis. The device force opposes the spring force. The device force includes a magnitude that is substantially equal to the spring force in any of a plurality of different positions of the carrier relative to the load bearing structure along the vertical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Avshalom Suissa, Mario Jodorkovsky
  • Publication number: 20180029658
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes an electronic device mount for a bicycle. The mount includes a pair of arms, wherein each arm is configured to receive a fastener. A cradle receives and retains the arms and each arm can rotate with respect to the cradle. An interface is connected to the cradle and is configured to be detachably connected to an electronic device. The arms are rotatable such that each arm aligns with a bore on a bicycle stem, and each arm is connected to the stem by securing the fasteners in the bores of the bicycle stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Tim John Boundy, Frank Pistorio
  • Publication number: 20180029659
    Abstract: A scooter having a handlebar assembly that includes a vertical portion supporting a handlebar. The vertical portion includes an opening at its top end and the opening is configured to receive an elongate portion of a toy. The assembly also includes a ring portion at the opening of the vertical portion and the ring portion frictionally engages the elongate portion of the toy. The vertical portion and the ring portion are configured to securely support the elongate portion of the toy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Ian Desberg
  • Publication number: 20180029660
    Abstract: In an aspect, a scooter is provided and includes a main body, a steering column, a front wheel unit and a rear wheel unit. The steering unit has a top and a bottom and is connected to the main body at a point intermediate the top and bottom. The front wheel unit is pivotally mounted proximate the bottom and includes first and second front wheels that are laterally spaced from one another. The front wheel unit supports the main body at least partially through the steering column. The steering column has first and second portions. The second portion extends towards the bottom from the first portion at a downward and rearward oblique angle relative to a vertical axis, so as to define a front wheel unit pivot axis. The steering unit is pivotable in a lateral-vertical plane to pivot the front wheel unit so as to steer the scooter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Hubert Petutschnig
  • Publication number: 20180029661
    Abstract: A method for controlling a self-balancing vehicle, includes: acquiring a state of a parameter input from a user through a pedal of the self-balancing vehicle; and when the state of the parameter indicates that a change has occurred in the parameter, controlling operation of the self-balancing vehicle according to the change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Xiaolin HA, Xing Yong, Xiaotong Zhang, Shangquan Lin
  • Publication number: 20180029662
    Abstract: A differential control apparatus for a self-balancing scooter includes platform interfaces, such as clamping mechanisms, configured to be rigidly connected to respective foot platforms of the self-balancing scooter, and a differential drive coupler mechanically joined to the platform interfaces to impart differential rotational motion thereto in response to a mechanical control input. A rider interface control mechanism is connected to the differential drive coupler to supply the mechanical control input in response to user control actions to control movement of the self-balancing scooter in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Edward George Acciardi, David Peter Cordella, Andrew Michael Agbay, Albert J. Agbay, Bruce A. Horwitz
  • Publication number: 20180029663
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
  • Publication number: 20180029664
    Abstract: An article includes a body having at least a holding or resting surface, and a plurality of spaced-apart fine pillars made of a resilient and deformable plastic material and projected from the holding or resting surface of the body. Each of the spaced-apart fine pillars includes a body portion with a bore defining a longitudinal axis, a base end and a free end. The base end of the fine pillar is integrally connected with the holding or resting surface the body. The body portion of the fine pillar extends from the base end along the longitudinal axis to the free end in a predetermined height. The fine pillars can be able to deform elastically when subjected to even a minimum pressure to provide the anti-skidding, shock-absorbing and breathable capacities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Tsai-Yun YU
  • Publication number: 20180029665
    Abstract: An adjustable rear wheel hood system has a movable hood, so to be longitudinally adjusted to accommodate shrinking wheels (due to wear), or other requirements. A longitudinal slot is aligned between the rear wheel hood and the deck, and after adjusting the hood-to-rear wheel separation to a desired amount, the hood is secured to the deck via a shaped protuberance and securing mechanism, preventing lateral movement of the hood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Andrew Broussard
  • Publication number: 20180029666
    Abstract: A bicycle controller controls a motor in accordance with the riding environment of a bicycle. The bicycle controller includes an electronic control unit that is configured to control a motor, which assists pedaling of a bicycle in accordance with a manual driving force. The electronic control unit is further configured to change a response speed of the motor with respect to a change in the manual driving force in accordance with an inclination angle of the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Satoshi SHAHANA, Yasuhiro TSUCHIZAWA, Hiroshi MATSUDA
  • Publication number: 20180029667
    Abstract: The invention is a single motor power unit, suitably for being mounted onto a bicycle frame, which is fitted with a motor (7), related power supply (13), bearings (8), crank shaft pinion gearhead (11), propulsor pinion gearhead (10), planetary gearbox (15), and central processor unit (12). It is characterized in that the propulsor pinion gearhead (10) is connected to a pinion with dynamometric system (19), having an at least approximately identical axis, and to a planetary gearbox (15) therethrough, while the inside of the bearing (8) is in fixed connection with the crank shaft (9) and the outside of the bearing (8) is in fixed connection with the crank shaft pinion gearhead (11). The invention is also the procedure for placing the power unit according to claim suitably into a bicycle frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: William Bond ELLIOTT, Istvan VARJAS
  • Publication number: 20180029668
    Abstract: A method for controlling a motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B) includes the step of feedback controlling the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor. A controller of an electric motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift is configured to carry out a feedback control of the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Applicant: CAMPAGNOLO S.r.l.
    Inventor: Federico MIGLIORANZA
  • Publication number: 20180029669
    Abstract: A snowmobile includes a frame; a suspension assembly; an engine; a drive axle and a drive sprocket and drive track assembly of a tracked vehicle. The drive sprocket includes a wheel mounted on the drive axle, the wheel having a wheel radius; and a plurality of teeth being distributed on a periphery of the wheel, the drive track connected by the suspension assembly, the drive sprocket driving the drive track about the suspension assembly to propel the tracked vehicle. The drive track includes an endless belt having an inner and an outer surface, the belt defining a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction; and external lugs projecting outwards from the outer surface of the belt, each of the external lugs having a height in a direction normal to the outer surface, the wheel radius being smaller than the height of at least some of the external lugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventor: Jean-Sebastien PARD
  • Publication number: 20180029671
    Abstract: A method for handling a cable that is faired by means of a fairing, the cable towed by a ship on board which there is a winch allowing the faired cable to be wound in and paid out through a faired-cable guide device, the method comprises: a first step of monitoring the cable, making it possible to detect whether the fairing is experiencing a double twist around the cable comprising an immersed full twist and an airborne full twist, and, when a double twist is detected, a first step of hauling in the faired cable, during which step the faired cable is hauled in, the first hauling step being carried out in such a way that the immersed full twist at least partially leaves the water and does not enter the guide device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: François WARNAN, Dominique DURAND, Jean-Philippe LONGUET, Marc LAZZARINI, Stéphane AUTRET, Jean-Jacques LOSSEC, Philippe PROST
  • Publication number: 20180029672
    Abstract: A watercraft is provided with a watercraft body and a storage container. The watercraft body includes a hull and a deck. The deck is provided on the hull. The storage container is attached to the watercraft body. The storage container includes an access opening and an annular sidewall. The access opening opens upward relative to the deck. The annular sidewall has an upper end, a lower end and an interior storage space between the upper end and the lower end. The lower end of the annular sidewall defines a bottom opening with a cross sectional area that is larger than a cross sectional area of the upper end of the annular sidewall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Publication date: February 1, 2018
    Inventors: Hideyoshi SATO, Jonathan DEBOW