Patents Issued in March 13, 2018
  • Patent number: 9914442
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system, method, and apparatus for distributing energy amongst at least one forward brake and at least one aft brake for a vehicle. The method involves determining, with at least one processor, an energy for at least one first brake and an energy for at least one second brake. Further, the method involves comparing, with at least one processor, the energy for at least one first brake with the energy for at least one second brake. Also, releasing at least one first brake, when at least one processor determines the energy of at least one first brake is greater than the energy for at least one second brake. Further, releasing at least one second brake, when at least one processor determines the energy of at least one second brake is greater than the energy for at least one first brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Scott Brandon Kanemori, David T. Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9914443
    Abstract: A brake system for a vehicle, including: a master brake cylinder having a first chamber, a rod piston, which, together with at least one first hydraulically active surface area, bounds the first chamber, a second chamber and a floating piston; the rod piston being configured with or couplable to a second hydraulically active surface area; the second hydraulically active surface area bounding an auxiliary chamber of the master brake cylinder or of another brake cylinder, and the auxiliary chamber being attached to an accumulator chamber and/or to the hydraulic reservoir via a first nonreturn valve and a restrictor that is configured in a further fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Dagobert Masur, Matthias Kistner
  • Patent number: 9914444
    Abstract: A method and a control device are provided for operating a road-coupled hybrid vehicle. The hybrid vehicle has an electronic control unit, a primary motor associated with a first axle, and a secondary motor associated with a second axle. By way of the electronic control unit, the primary motor and the secondary motor are basically controlled in a drive-oriented manner such that preferentially only a single-axle drive by the primary motor is provided. Beginning with the secondary motor switched off, when a traction requirement is determined, the secondary motor is switched on, regardless of whether the vehicle is traveling on a curve. Beginning with the secondary motor switched on, when a traction requirement is not present, the secondary motor is not switched off until it is determined that the vehicle is not, or is no longer, traveling on a curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Sailer, Christian Wimmer, Jan Felten, Dirk Odenthal
  • Patent number: 9914445
    Abstract: A control device for a vehicle comprising a moveable element and means for outputting a signal indicative of an angle that a wheel of a vehicle should be rotated through, thereby allowing movement of the vehicle, wherein the indicated angle is based on the degree of movement the moveable element is moved through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: PROTEAN ELECTRIC LIMITED
    Inventor: Angus Rutherford Lyon
  • Patent number: 9914446
    Abstract: Provided is a driving assistance apparatus configured to determine whether or not an own vehicle driving lane is a merging lane based on a result of identifying the merging lane from a lane reduction sign detected in a vehicle front image and a result of identifying a merged lane direction with respect to the own vehicle driving lane from separation lines on both sides of the own vehicle driving lane that are detected in the vehicle front image, and to control driving of an own vehicle in accordance with the determination result and vehicle condition information of the own vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Noritaka Kokido
  • Patent number: 9914447
    Abstract: A control device for a vehicle drive apparatus, the vehicle drive apparatus including an output shaft connected to an engine; an input shaft connected to a wheel; an electric motor that generates rotational torque of the wheel; and a hydraulic clutch that connects the output shaft to the input shaft when placed in an engaged state, and disconnects the output shaft from the input shaft when placed in a released state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: AISIN AW CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takashi Yoshida, Kohei Tsuda
  • Patent number: 9914448
    Abstract: A powertrain assembly has multiple torque actuators. The assembly includes a first controller configured to control a first torque actuator and a second controller configured to control a second torque actuator. The first controller is configured to receive a signal from an input sensor and convert the signal into a torque demand. The second controller is configured to receive the torque demand from the first controller and determine respective optimal torque allocations for the first and second torque actuators based on the torque demand and a plurality of optimization factors. The first controller includes a processor and tangible, non-transitory memory on which is recorded instructions for executing a method of controlling the multiple torque actuators across the at least two controllers via a dynamic look-up table. The dynamic look-up table is populated by a plurality of stored torque production allocation values based on a respective plurality of torque requests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Diaz, Ryan Z. Goode, Kevin J. Storch
  • Patent number: 9914449
    Abstract: Systems and methods for operating a hybrid powertrain that includes an engine and a motor/generator are described. The systems and methods adjust battery charging and discharging as well as engine and motor torque based on whether or not the vehicle is operating in a cruise control mode. In one example, curves that provide a basis for operating an engine and motor based on driver demand torque are compressed during a vehicle cruise control mode to improve powertrain efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Steven Yamazaki, Christopher Alan Lear, Scott James Thompson
  • Patent number: 9914450
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a technology of determining an engine friction torque even when idling of an engine is not performed, by providing a certain engine Revolutions per Minute (RPM) in stop state of the engine using Hybrid Starter & Generator (HSG) connected to an engine pulley. The present disclosure provides a technology of determining an accurate engine friction torque using a torque provided from the outside of an engine instead of a torque generated the engine itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Hyun Mo Ahn, Yun Chan Heo, In Tak Kim, Doo Il Won, Hae Seung Lee, Yeong Jin Nam
  • Patent number: 9914451
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic 4WD system having reinforced ABS cooperative control performance, in which an ABS ACT signal by an ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) controller and a 4WD_OPEN signal by the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) controller are used. When the ABS ACT signal and the 4WD_OPEN signal are recognized, it is determined that it is an ESC vehicle and a 4WD mode is stopped. When only the ABS ACT signal is recognized, it is determined that it is an ABS vehicle and the intention of a user is determined on the basis of whether a brake pedal has been pressed down or an accelerator pedal has been released, and then a 4WD mode is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Sung-Keun Lim
  • Patent number: 9914452
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to detecting and responding to objects in a vehicle's environment. For example, an object may be identified in a vehicle's environment, the object having a heading and location. A set of possible actions for the object may be generated using map information describing the vehicle's environment and the heading and location of the object. A set of possible future trajectories of the object may be generated based on the set of possible actions. A likelihood value of each trajectory of the set of possible future trajectories may be determined based on contextual information including a status of the detected object. A final future trajectory is determined based on the determined likelihood value for each trajectory of the set of possible future trajectories. The vehicle is then maneuvered in order to avoid the final future trajectory and the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Waymo LLC
    Inventors: David Ian Franklin Ferguson, David Harrison Silver, Stéphane Ross, Nathaniel Fairfield, Ioan-Alexandru Sucan
  • Patent number: 9914453
    Abstract: A method for predicting the expected travel path of a moving vehicle by numerical integration of a dynamic vehicle model using at least one rotational travel state and at least one longitudinal travel state is disclosed. To provide a prediction of the expected travel path, which does not depend on map information and provides the maximum possible accuracy even for non-steady-state travel states of a vehicle, time-related function rules for the rotational travel state ?Pre(t) and/or for the longitudinal travel state ?Pre(t) are determined, and values for the travel state concerned ?Pre, ?Pre are predicted at specific points in time by integration using said function rule ?Pre(t), ?Pre(t). In this process, the time-related function rule of the travel state concerned is determined by obtaining respective (rotational or longitudinal) input variables for at least two time-derivatives of the travel state concerned from measured values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: VALEO Schalter und Sensoren GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Kraehling
  • Patent number: 9914454
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vehicle speed control system, configured with off-road performance features, that will allow the driver to travel at a set speed in a smooth, controlled manner on various unmaintained surfaces without requiring the driver to press the brake or accelerator pedal. The vehicle speed control system uses a brake controller to control the wheel brakes, and an engine controller to control the engine/drivetrain torque, separate or in combination, to maintain a target speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignees: Kelsey-Hayes Company, Lucas Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Sean Simmons, Shawn Hawley, Charles Anthony Bartlett, Elmar Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 9914455
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control apparatus of a vehicle. The apparatus calculates a requested acceleration of an own vehicle on the basis of feedback and feedforward requested accelerations and executes a following travel control for causing the own vehicle to travel following a communicating preceding vehicle by controlling an acceleration of the own vehicle such that the acceleration of the own vehicle corresponds to the requested acceleration. The apparatus sets the feedforward requested acceleration to zero when an own vehicle sensor device has not detected the preceding vehicle and the feedforward requested acceleration is larger than zero after starting an execution of the following travel control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yusuke Nemoto
  • Patent number: 9914456
    Abstract: A rotation state of each rotating element of a four-wheel drive vehicle and an operating state of each engagement element of a disconnect mechanism, corresponding to an operating state of the disconnect mechanism, are displayed on or near a vehicle model image on a vehicle display. Thus, it is possible to inform a driver of the operating state of the disconnect mechanism at any time. Thus, the driver is able to recognize the operating state of the disconnect mechanism at any time, so the driver is able to carry out driving based on the operating state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Satoshi Shimizu, Yoshiro Obayashi, Ryota Horie, Norihiro Mizoguchi, Shintarou Mukougawa, Kunihiro Iwatsuki
  • Patent number: 9914457
    Abstract: A method for setting a clutch torque between an engine and a drive of a vehicle during a starting process of the vehicle includes increasing the clutch torque during a first phase, limiting the clutch torque to a first torque value during the first phase, and further increasing the clutch torque in a second phase after an engine rotational speed reaches a rotational speed limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Dimitri Beller, Bjoern Sieland
  • Patent number: 9914458
    Abstract: At the time of automated driving, a plurality of vehicle running paths which show changes along with time of a speed and advancing direction of the vehicle are generated based on the information on the surroundings of the vehicle which is detected by an external sensor. At the time of a manual driving mode, the running paths of the vehicle at the different driving scenes are stored as specific vehicle running paths which show the driving characteristics of the driver. At the time of automated driving, when the driving scene becomes a driving scene for which the specific vehicle running path is stored, a vehicle running path close to the stored specific vehicle running path is selected from among the plurality of generated vehicle running paths, and the vehicle is automatically driven along this selected vehicle running path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuki Sato, Kazuhiro Sugimoto, Junichi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 9914459
    Abstract: A method for controlling a drive of a vehicle with at least one first axle having at least one mounted wheel. A drive torque is specified by a driver of the vehicle, and the first axle is driven by means of a first electric machine dependent on the drive torque. A second electric machine which is coupled to an internal combustion engine provides electrical energy for driving the first axle with the first electric machine. A respective control or target torque assigned to the second electric machine and the internal combustion engine is computed while taking into consideration the drive torque and machine parameters of at least the second electric machine. The second electric machine and the internal combustion engine are each regulated with respect to the assigned control torque or with respect to the assigned target torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventors: Clemens Burow, Florian Then
  • Patent number: 9914460
    Abstract: In an example, there is disclosed a computing apparatus, including: a driver identity detector to detect the identity of a driver; and one or more logic elements providing a driver competency engine, operable to: detect the identity of the driver; evaluate the driver's operation of a vehicle; and build a driver competency profile based at least in part on the evaluating. The driver competency engine may further be operable to detect a context of the operation, such as environmental factors. There is also described a method of providing a driver competency engine, and one or more computer readable mediums having stored thereon executable instructions for providing a driver competency engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: McAfee, LLC
    Inventors: Simon Hunt, Venkata Ramanan Sambandam, Prasanna Venkateswaran
  • Patent number: 9914461
    Abstract: A device that can stably and accurately estimate the roll angle of a vehicle body during various states of movement of the vehicle body. A roll angle estimated value calculation portion calculates an estimated value of the roll angle by integrating a value obtained by correcting an estimated value of roll angle velocity of a vehicle body by use of a correction value, or by correcting a value obtained by integrating an estimated value of roll angle velocity by use of a correction value. The correction value is calculated by use of a detection value of speed of the vehicle body in the traveling direction, detection values of angular velocity and acceleration detected by sensors mounted on the vehicle body, a previous estimated value of the roll angle, and a previous estimated value of the pitch angle of the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Satoru Okoshi, Toru Takenaka, Shinya Shirokura
  • Patent number: 9914462
    Abstract: A method for preconditioning various subsystems of an electrified vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, scheduling preconditioning of a battery pack, an interior cabin, a transmission and an engine of the electrified vehicle prior to a next expected usage time based at least on a weather forecast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Angel Fernando Porras, Timothy Noah Blatchley, Christopher Adam Ochocinski, Ryan J. Skaff
  • Patent number: 9914463
    Abstract: Disclosed is an autonomous driving device in which a threshold value for switching to manual driving which is used for switching the driving state from autonomous driving to manual driving with respect to a value indicative of a degree to which of any of a steering operation is carried out, an acceleration operation, and a braking operation by the driver is calculated by a calculation unit of the autonomous driving device according to the surrounding environment of the host vehicle recognized by an environment recognition unit. Thereby, the ease of switching the driving state from autonomous driving to manual driving conforms to a surrounding environment of the host vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kohei Otsuka
  • Patent number: 9914464
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a railroad hopper car bottom discharge door having two door plates, where at least one is rotatable between open and closed positions for the bottom discharge door. A seal member is fixedly connected to a distal end of each door plate, respectively, and each seal member has a seal lip protruding from the corresponding door plate. One seal lip comprises a first obtuse angle on a lower surface of the seal lip, while the other seal lip comprises a second angle smaller than the first obtuse angle on an upper surface of the seal lip. When the bottom discharge door is closed, the two angles on the two seal lips interlock to form a seal. Methods and systems for a door-actuating assembly that utilizes a pick-up shoe and a rechargeable battery to minimize the occurrence of rail sparks inside dump sites are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Vertex Railcar Corporation
    Inventor: Fred Joseph Taylor
  • Patent number: 9914465
    Abstract: An applicator for applying a friction modifying material to the surface of a rail is provided. The applicator comprises a resilient body for applying a composition to a surface of a rail. The resilient body comprises an outer impervious surface and defines a sealed passageway that extends through the resilient body for the composition to flow through; and an applicator support, wherein the resilient body is secured to the applicator support. A rail applicator assembly and methods for using the applicator are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: L.B. FOSTER RAIL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Glen Appleby, Matthew Redfield, Charles Schnorr, Charles A. Petrie
  • Patent number: 9914466
    Abstract: A reverser handle comprising a key component integrally associated with a light component. In an exemplary embodiment, the light component comprises a cap which houses a light source, such as, e.g., a plurality of light emitting diodes, a light bulb, or a photoluminescent material which allows the cap to glow in the dark. The key component comprises a body having extending therefrom a flange which is configured to actuate a control stand. The light component preferably comprises a blue light emitting light source to comply with a blue flag safety procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Railhead Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph Donnan
  • Patent number: 9914467
    Abstract: A clamp assembly is provided for securing to preexisting studs or support members. The clamp assembly comprises a compression fitting adapted to be secured to a plurality of different sized studs or wall supports, and further to support additional supports including, but not limited, horizontal support members. A support and movement device is further provided that is selectively connectable to clamp and support members of the disclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: OLDCASTLE LIGHT BUILDING PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel M. Nyce
  • Patent number: 9914468
    Abstract: A collapsible cart. The collapsible cart includes a frame with a first end and a second end, and the frame secures to a bracket and a base. The collapsible cart further includes a basket that can hold large and small items, and wheels located on the underside of the base provide for easy movement of the cart. A handle, the bracket, and the base are each affixed to the frame via a pivot and can fold towards the frame forming a collapsed configuration. In this way, the collapsible cart can be easily transported and deployed at various locations typically inaccessible to vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Inventors: Donna Coules, Alex Coules
  • Patent number: 9914469
    Abstract: Infant carriers are stably supported and transported by being positioned on a frame set on wheels. The frame may include an infant carrier holder with a floor with a ramp and sidewalls. The infant carrier holder may be integral with the frame or may be mounted to a mounting device that can be adjusted for mounting angle or height. A handle is provided to the frame at a position that is suitable for a person in a wheelchair to grasp the frame and move the transport. A handle suitable for a standing person to grasp the frame may optionally be provided. The transport permits a person that may have difficulty carrying or transporting an infant carrier to more easily transport the infant carrier in a standing or a seated position, the latter as may be the case with a wheelchair occupant. The transport may be fastened to the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Safe-Strap Company, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Giampavolo, Christopher M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 9914470
    Abstract: A vehicle tracking system includes a wheel assembly containing sensor circuitry capable of sensing one or more types of conditions, such as wheel rotation, wheel vibration caused by skidding, and specific electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals indicative of particular wheel locations. The wheel assembly may also include a brake mechanism. The wheel assemblies may be mounted on shopping carts and used to collect and monitor shopping cart status and location data via a wireless network. In one embodiment, the wheel assembly communicates via a wired or wireless connection with a handlebar mounted display unit of the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Gatekeeper Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen E. Hannah, Scott J. Carter, Jesse M. James
  • Patent number: 9914471
    Abstract: A securing arrangement for a steering gear housing is provided. The securing arrangement includes at least one steering gear securing portion formed on the steering gear housing and at least one bodywork securing portion formed on a bodywork component of a vehicle. Each steering gear securing portion has a steering gear bearing surface and each bodywork securing portion has a bodywork bearing surface configured to support a respective steering gear bearing surface so as to form a respective pair of bearing surfaces when the steering gear housing is arranged on the bodywork component. Each pair of bearing surfaces includes a convex bearing surface and a substantially planar bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Georg Figura, Hubertus von Chappuis
  • Patent number: 9914472
    Abstract: A motor controller includes, in a microcomputer, a voltage fall determiner determining whether a reference voltage falls from a normal value based on an Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion value of a second voltage from an A/D converter, and a corrector (i) calculating a correction coefficient based on the A/D conversion value of the second voltage from the A/D converter and (ii) correcting an A/D conversion value of an input voltage that is output from the A/D converter. A core of the microcomputer generates a control signal based on an input voltage A/D conversion value, when the voltage fall determiner determines that the reference voltage is equal to or higher than a normal reference value. The motor controller keeps its motor control accuracy in such manner, even when a fall of an A/D conversion reference voltage is observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshihisa Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9914473
    Abstract: Provided is an electric power steering system that achieves a more appropriate steering feel. An ECU of the electric power steering system calculates a basic assist component and a target pinion angle based on at least steering torque. The ECU calculates a correction component for the basic assist component through feedback control in which an actual pinion angle is caused to match the target pinion angle. The ECU calculates an assist command value by adding the correction component to the basic assist component. The ECU corrects a hysteresis controlled variable and a viscosity component according to the rate of change (gradient) in a spring component with respect to a change in absolute value of the target pinion angle. Specifically, the ECU multiplies the hysteresis controlled variable and the viscosity component by gains that have a larger value as the rate of change in spring component increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Terutaka Tamaizumi, Hirozumi Eki, Masayuki Kita
  • Patent number: 9914474
    Abstract: A vehicular control apparatus that functions more reliably is provided. A quasi-abnormality control circuit brings one of a clock signal, an internal watchdog signal, and an answer signal into a quasi-abnormal state when an ignition is switched on. A clock determining circuit, an internal watchdog signal determining circuit, and a Q&A watchdog circuit output determination signals, respectively. One of the determination signals corresponds to a monitoring target signal brought into the quasi-abnormal state and indicates an abnormality. A reset signal determining circuit receives the determination signals, and generates a reset signal in accordance with determination results in the determination signals. A quasi-abnormality control circuit switches the monitoring target signal to be brought into the quasi-abnormal state each time the ignition is switched on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kenichi Kozuka
  • Patent number: 9914475
    Abstract: A humanized steering system for an automated vehicle includes one or more steering-wheels operable to steer a vehicle, an angle-sensor configured to determine a steering-angle of the steering-wheels, a hand-wheel used by an operator of the vehicle to influence the steering-angle and thereby manually steer the vehicle, a steering-actuator operable to influence the steering-angle thereby steer the vehicle when the operator does not manually steer the vehicle, a position-sensor operable to indicate a relative-position an object proximate to the vehicle, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive the steering-angle and the relative-position, determine, using deep-learning techniques, a steering-model based on the steering-angle and the relative-position, and operate the steering-actuator when the operator does not manually steer the vehicle to steer the vehicle in accordance with the steering-model, whereby the vehicle is steered in a manner similar to how the operator manually steers the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Ludong Sun, Michael H. Laur, Jonathan L. Wieskamp, Miao Yan
  • Patent number: 9914476
    Abstract: A vehicle steering system includes a higher-level ECU and a lower-level ECU. The lower-level ECU includes a steered angle limit setter, and steered angle limiters. The steered angle limit setter sets an allowable upper limit to a target inner and outer wheel steered angle difference responsive to the absolute value of a target outer steered angle. The steered angle limit setter calculates a limit to the absolute value of a target inner steered angle. The steered angle limit setter subsequently sets this limit for one of the steered angle limiters that is fed the target inner steered angle in the present calculation cycle. The limiter, which is fed the target inner steered angle, limits the absolute value of the target inner steered angle so that the absolute value of the target inner steered angle is equal to or below the limit, and outputs the resulting value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshiaki Oya
  • Patent number: 9914477
    Abstract: A torque sensor for a steering mechanism having an input shaft joined to an output shaft by a torsion bar. A first coupler is connected to the input shaft while a second coupler is connected to the output shaft. A first and second receiving coils, each having a plurality of oppositely wound loops, are arranged adjacent the first and second coils, respectively, while a circuit determines the angular offset between the couplers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: KSR IP Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Lingmin Shao, Jun Yang, Ryan W. Elliott
  • Patent number: 9914478
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: MONTAG INVESTMENTS, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 9914480
    Abstract: A vehicle front structure includes a cross member installed across right and left front side frames. The left front side frame has a frame bending section provided above a left suspension arm. The frame bending section is formed so as to be bendable when subjected to a frontal impact load. A left reinforcing member is disposed below the frame bending section and is mounted across the cross member and the dash cross member. The left reinforcing member is fastened to a rear fastening portion. The left reinforcing member has a bending section that is bendable downward when subjected to an impact load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yuki Taguchi
  • Patent number: 9914481
    Abstract: A reinforcement member disposed at a front portion of a floor panel is disposed angled toward a vehicle width direction inside on progression from a position (input portion on a vehicle width direction outside and vehicle front-rear direction front side of the floor panel toward the vehicle front-rear direction rear side. An outer end portion of the reinforcement member is joined to a rocker, and an inner end portion of the reinforcement member is joined to a floor tunnel portion. When the vehicle is involved in a frontal collision, collision load is input in an oblique direction to the position on the vehicle width direction outside and the vehicle front-rear direction front side of the floor panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Koushi Kumagai
  • Patent number: 9914482
    Abstract: The configuration of a vehicle side structure according to the present invention is characterized by including an upper pillar reinforcing member that forms an upper edge of a front door opening of a vehicle, a pillar hinge reinforcing member that forms a front edge of the front door opening, and a side sill strengthening member that forms a lower edge of the front door opening, wherein the pillar hinge reinforcing member has a hinge bulged portion that is bulged toward the vehicle exterior, along a vertical direction, the hinge bulged portion has at least one ridge line that is curved so as to protrude toward the vehicle front side, and the at least one ridge line links a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the upper pillar reinforcing member and a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the side sill strengthening member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takuya Hirata
  • Patent number: 9914483
    Abstract: A header beam couples between A-pillars of a vehicle frame. The header beam is formed from a generally straight beam segment that is extruded to have a hollow body portion with supportive legs extending within the hollow interior along the length of the beam segment, defining uninterrupted forward and rearward box sections for supporting continuous load paths on the header beam. The end portions of the beam segment are clamped and the beam segment is stretch bent to form a curvature between the end portions that remain generally straight. A front flange extends forward along the body portion and is struck proximate the end portions to form an edge that is parallel to the curvature formed between the end portions. The end portions are attached to the A-pillars and the edge of the front flange is attached to a windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: John Joyce, Jack Lashbrook, Duncan Whipps, Christopher John May, Darrin Neil Wagner
  • Patent number: 9914484
    Abstract: There is provided a vehicle body front structure including left and right mounting brackets provided at the rear ends of left and right bumper beam extensions of a front bumper beam, and left and right frame side mounting members connecting the rear ends of the left and right mounting brackets. The left and right frame side mounting members are provided at the front ends of left and right front side frames. The left and right mounting brackets are formed into an almost L shape by horizontal plate-like left and right joint plate portions and vertical plate-like left and right flanges, and each of the left and right mounting brackets is located on at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface of each of the left and right bumper beam extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke Kawabe, Tomohide Sekiguchi, Yuki Matsushima, Takumi Tsuyuzaki, Kazuhito Onoda, Mikihito Kojima, Shinya Kobayashi, Kazuhiko Iwaizako, Yasuhiro Kajio
  • Patent number: 9914485
    Abstract: A vehicle hood assembly includes an outer hood panel and an inner hood panel coupled to and positioned below the outer hood panel in a vehicle vertical direction. A hood reinforcement strap is coupled to at least one of the outer hood panel and the inner hood panel. The hood reinforcement strap includes a strap base and lobe structures spaced-apart along a length of the strap base that extend outward from the strap base in the vehicle vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremiah T. Hammer, Aaron R. Steinhilb
  • Patent number: 9914486
    Abstract: A motor vehicle hood assembly includes a hood shell and a fluid reservoir having a body including a stringer section and a plurality of finger sections that are connected to and extend from the stringer section. The fluid reservoir may be provided packaged between the hood shell and an insulation layer of the hood assembly. A filling port is provided to assure the fluid is replenished by gravity once it's emptied from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Enrique Remes
  • Patent number: 9914487
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes: a vehicle body frame; a prime mover part that is supported by the vehicle body frame; a bonnet that is configured to vertically swing between a closed position at which the prime mover part is covered, and an open position at which the prime mover part is open; and a support frame that supports a free end side of the bonnet located at the closed position. At least left and right guide-target parts of the bonnet or left and right guiding parts of the support frame have left and right inclined surfaces that serve as centering effective surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Koichiro Matsumoto, Nobuyuki Yamashita, Hiroshi Kawabata, Tomohisa Yamamoto, Masayuki Akita, Tasuku Teraoka, Yoshihisa Tonoya
  • Patent number: 9914488
    Abstract: A passenger compartment module block assembly is provided. The passenger compartment module block assembly includes a center block which is made of composite material and disposed within a central portion of a crash pad and provided with assembly components formed on opposite sides of the center block, a driver block which is made of composite material and coupled to a first-side assembly component of the center block and disposed adjacent to a driver seat. A passenger block which is made of composite material and is coupled to a second-side assembly component of the center block and disposed adjacent to a passenger seat. The center block, the driver block and the passenger block are assembled integrally with each other and are disposed between a dash panel and a crush pad of a vehicle and to improve torsion and bending stiffness of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Jae Hyun An
  • Patent number: 9914489
    Abstract: An underbody stiffening and covering module is provided, which has a flat, non-load-bearing covering component made from a plastic material. At least one reinforcing strut is connected firmly to the covering component, the reinforcing strut extends along a predetermined load path and has a respective connection device on its end sections, with which, together with the covering component, is able to be connected to a predetermined underbody section at force application points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Robert Bjekovic, Asmir Salkic
  • Patent number: 9914490
    Abstract: A frame structure for a motor vehicle body includes at least two profile components and a connecting node, which connects the profile components with each other. At least one of the profile components has at least one console which is made of fiber reinforced plastic and on which other components can be fastened or supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventors: Oliver Schauerte, Florian Eidmann, Karl Durst
  • Patent number: 9914491
    Abstract: A method for producing a motor vehicle component, is disclosed having the steps of—providing a blank composed of a 5000 grade naturally hard aluminum alloy with an initial yield strength, completely heating the blank to a forming temperature between 150° C. and 350° C., preferably between 200° C. and 300° C. in less than 20 s, preferably less than 10 s and in particular in 2 to 5 s, and performing forming in a forming tool in less than 20 s, preferably less than 10 s and in particular between 2 and 5 s, the temperature being held between 150° C. and 350° C. in at least one first region of the blank, and cooling to a temperature lower than 250° C., in particular lower than 200° C., being performed in a second region during or after the deformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Friedrich Bohner, Jochen Doerr, Jochem Grewe, Christian Hielscher, Joern Toelle, Boris Rauscher
  • Patent number: 9914492
    Abstract: System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to a low-profile vehicle. In one embodiment, the low-profile vehicle includes a vehicle body having a profile that is substantially continuous around an outer perimeter of the vehicle. The profile is comprised of a fin extending outward from a lower edge of the vehicle body and meeting a ramp of the vehicle body at a concave curve. The ramp continues from the concave curve into a convex curve where the ramp transitions into a top surface of the vehicle body. The profile has an exaggerated s-shape. The low-profile vehicle includes a hatch disposed within the top surface. The vehicle includes a passenger compartment disposed within the vehicle body and accessible through the hatch. The passenger compartment is shaped to provide for a passenger to occupy the vehicle in a substantially lying down position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventor: Jens Strabo Hummelshøj