Patents Issued in April 3, 2018
  • Patent number: 9932026
    Abstract: A shift control method and apparatus for a vehicle is described. The shift control method for a vehicle having an oil pump includes determining whether the vehicle satisfies an Idle Stop and Go (ISG) learning condition, measuring, when the vehicle satisfies the ISG learning condition, a shift time of a transmission when a driving state of the vehicle is changed from an idling state to a restart state, comparing the measured shift time with a predetermined reference shift time, and adjusting a pressure of oil supplied to a solenoid of the transmission from the oil pump according to the compared result. Thus, it is possible to reduce a variation in shift time required when the ISG vehicle using a mechanical oil pump in place of an electrical oil pump is restarted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Autron, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin-Young Park, Jun-Hyung Kim
  • Patent number: 9932027
    Abstract: A hybrid electric vehicle is capable of direct drive by internal combustion engine, electric motor, or both. In order to provide a consistent overrun response, a torque controller determines an appropriate deceleration characteristic according to, for example, transmission speed ratio, vehicle gradient and vehicle mass, and commands the electric motor and the engine to contribute a negative torque which meets the required deceleration characteristic. A ‘tip’ function modifies the characteristic in the event of a change commanded by the vehicle driver, for example a change of speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Limited
    Inventors: Steve Liggins, Simon Message, Richard Kirkman, Matthew Hancock
  • Patent number: 9932028
    Abstract: A series hydraulic hybrid system for a vehicle and a method of operating the same is described. The series hydraulic hybrid system has a hydraulic circuit, high and low pressure hydraulic accumulators, and a control unit. The hydraulic circuit has first and second hydraulic displacement units in fluid communication. The first hydraulic displacement unit is drivingly engaged with an internal combustion engine. The high pressure hydraulic accumulator and the low pressure hydraulic accumulator are fluidly connected to the hydraulic circuit through at least one accumulator valve. The control unit is adapted to receive an input from an operator, compute a requested torque and a target system pressure based on the input, compare an accumulator pressure to the target system pressure, and control at least one of a speed of the internal combustion engine and a valve state of the accumulator valve based on the outcome of the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Dana Italia SPA
    Inventors: Giulio Ornella, Lorenzo Serrao, Ettore Cosoli, Fabrizio Zendri, Francesco Achille
  • Patent number: 9932029
    Abstract: A system and method for balancing the states of charge between a plurality of energy storage modules in a hybrid vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises determining states of charge of individual energy storage modules in said plurality of energy storage modules operatively connected to a power source in the hybrid electric vehicle. The vehicle is operated using a subset of the plurality of energy storage modules when the states of charge of said subset the plurality of energy storage modules is outside of a tolerances relative to the remaining energy storage modules of said plurality of said energy storage modules. The energy storage modules may be charged or discharged using the method in order to equalize the states of charge of the energy storage modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Allison Transmission, Inc.
    Inventors: Perry Pruitt, Kurt Biehl, Justin Langford, Jonathan Kellerman
  • Patent number: 9932030
    Abstract: A hybrid drive system for a motor vehicle includes an internal combustion engine and at least one electric motor, each driving wheels of the motor vehicle. The internal combustion engine is coupled to the corresponding wheels via a first multispeed transmission. The electric motor is coupled to the corresponding wheels via a second multispeed transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Frank Steuernagel, Peter Khatchikian, Sasha Dreschmann, Boyke Richter, Manfred Hellmann, Rene Schenk
  • Patent number: 9932031
    Abstract: A method for operating a powertrain of a hybrid vehicle is provided. The method includes outputting via a controller an engine speed command that is based on a predicted impeller speed of a torque converter and corresponds to the accelerator tip-in to output a torque from the engine to wheels of the vehicle in response to detection of an accelerator pedal tip-in greater than a predetermined threshold. The method may also include accessing a history of impeller speed outputs of the hybrid vehicle to obtain the predicted impeller speed. The engine speed command may set engine speed substantially equal to or greater than the predicted impeller speed. The predetermined threshold may be based on a driver requested torque output of the wheels in which torque from the torque converter to the wheels results in saturation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Rajit Johri, Francis Thomas Connolly
  • Patent number: 9932032
    Abstract: When there is an abnormality in communication between control units, an engine ECU performs power fixing control for keeping engine power constant, and stops the engine if the engine speed falls outside a predetermined range during execution of the power fixing control. When there is an abnormality in communication between the control units, a hybrid ECU performs rotational speed fixing control for keeping the engine speed within the predetermined range by controlling a first MG. When there is a request for stop of the engine during execution of the rotational speed fixing control, the hybrid ECU brings an inverter into a gate shutoff state, and controls a converter to increase system voltage, so as to reduce the magnitude of counter-electromotive torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Obitsu, Yuka Inoshita
  • Patent number: 9932033
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for analyzing historical accident information to adjust driving actions of an autonomous vehicle over a travel route in order to avoid accidents which have occurred over the travel route. Historical accident information for the travel route can be analyzed to, for example, determine accident types which occurred over the travel route and determine causes and/or probable causes of the accident types. In response to determining accident types and causes/probable causes of the accident types over the travel route, adjustments can be made to the driving actions planned for the autonomous vehicle over the travel route. In addition, in an embodiment, historical accident information can be used to analyze available travel routes and select a route which presents less risk of accident than others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Allstate Insurance Company
    Inventors: Mark V. Slusar, Jason Brian Bogovich, Julie A. Jordan Peters
  • Patent number: 9932034
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system comprising: a first, controller operable to assume one of a plurality of respective states, in a first state the first controller being configured to generate a first controller powertrain signal in order to cause a powertrain to develop drive torque, and a first controller brake signal in order to cause application of a brake to one or more wheels, the first controller being configured to generate the first controller powertrain signal and first controller brake signal to cause a vehicle to operate in accordance with the target speed value, wherein when the first controller is in a predetermined one or more states the first controller is configured automatically to perform a brake wipe operation in which the first controller generates the first controller brake signal in dependence on one or more predetermined conditions while continuing to cause a vehicle to operate in accordance with the target speed value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Limited
    Inventor: Jonathan Woodley
  • Patent number: 9932035
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to speed control in an autonomous vehicle. For example, an autonomous vehicle may include a user interface which allows the driver to input speed preferences. These preferences may include the maximum speed above the speed limit the user would like the autonomous vehicle to drive when other vehicles are present and driving above or below certain speeds. The other vehicles may be in adjacent or the same lane the vehicle, and need not be in front of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Waymo LLC
    Inventors: David I. Ferguson, Dmitri A. Dolgov
  • Patent number: 9932036
    Abstract: There is provided a driving assistance device. When there is a possibility that weather influences a detection performance of a vehicle detection unit configured to detect a preceding vehicle traveling in front of a subject vehicle and to measure an inter-vehicular distance to the preceding vehicle, a speed reduction control assistance unit enables a speed reduction control unit to perform a primary speed reduction control at a predetermined distance ahead of an entry or an exit of a tunnel-shaped road structure. Thereafter, when the vehicle detection unit detects the preceding vehicle and the inter-vehicular distance is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value, the speed reduction control assistance unit enables the speed reduction control unit to perform a secondary speed reduction control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Koji Kurata
  • Patent number: 9932037
    Abstract: A method of maintain an automotive smart cruise control system is provided. The system is capable of maintaining a vehicle in a stopped state without requiring an electronic braking system. The vehicle is stopped by a controller when conditions for stopping the vehicle are satisfied based on the driving situation of the vehicle, and the vehicle is maintained in the stopped state by setting the speed of the driving motor to zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seong Wook Moon, Jae Hoon Cho
  • Patent number: 9932038
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a request to decelerate an ADV from a first location to stop at a second location is received. In response to the request, a first zone and a second zone are determined within a distance between the first location and the second location. The ADV is controlled to decelerate based on a first deceleration rate from a current speed at the first location to a predetermined speed within the first zone. The ADV then decelerates from the predetermined speed based on a second deceleration rate from the predetermined speed to a full stop within the second zone. The first deceleration rate and the second deceleration rate are different. The first deceleration rate is sufficient enough to slow down the vehicle to a degree within the first zone that ensures the vehicle to fully stop at the second location as planned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: BAIDU USA LLC
    Inventors: Fan Zhu, Qi Kong, Guang Yang, Jingao Wang
  • Patent number: 9932039
    Abstract: A control device is configured to: (i) control rotation speed of internal combustion engine such that the rotation speed of the internal combustion engine is increased with an increase in a traveling speed of a vehicle, (ii) execute a pseudo gear shift to control the rotation speed of the internal combustion engine such that the rotation speed of the internal combustion engine is decreased to a first rotation speed, (iii) execute a mechanical gear shift to change a second gear ratio according to a gear shift line determined by the traveling speed and a value according to the acceleration request, and (iv) execute adjustment control to adjust the rotation speed of the internal combustion engine in advance in a period before executing the mechanical gear shift such that the rotation speed of the internal combustion engine matches the pseudo gear shift threshold value when the mechanical gear shift is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Iketomi, Shinichi Sasade, Munehiro Katsumata, Kazuyuki Shiiba, Tooru Matsubara, Takeshi Kitahata, Kenta Kumazaki
  • Patent number: 9932040
    Abstract: A hybrid car includes an engine, a first motor, a second motor, a planetary gear, a disconnecting mechanism, and an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is configured to control the engine and the first motor such that the first motor gives the engine a damping torque of the same phase as a pulsating component of a torque of the engine and the first motor starts the engine by cranking the engine when the engine is started with the shift position being the position for traveling. The electronic control unit is configured to control the engine and the first motor such that the first motor starts the engine by cranking the engine without the first motor giving the engine the damping torque of the same phase when the engine is started with the shift position being the position for non-traveling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masaya Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9932041
    Abstract: The disclosure includes implementations for providing a personalized medical emergency autopilot system based on data from a portable medical device. A method may include receiving, by a communication unit of a vehicle, a wireless message from a wireless network. The wireless message includes sensor data describing one or more current physiological signals of a driver of the vehicle that are recorded by a portable medical device worn by the driver. The method may include analyzing the one or more current physiological signals of the driver to identify a medical emergency for the driver. The method may include overriding, by a personalized medical emergency autopilot system, one or more vehicle control inputs provided by the driver subsequent to identifying the medical emergency so that the driver cannot control the operation of the vehicle during the medical emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventors: BaekGyu Kim, Chung-Wei Lin, Shinichi Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 9932042
    Abstract: In a computer-implemented method, data about potential vehicle operator impairment is retrieved. The data is generated by monitoring a vehicle operator, the environment ahead of the vehicle, and/or force in one or more directions. For each of a plurality of trips, an impairment score is generated by analyzing the data about potential vehicle operator impairment, and determining whether the vehicle operator was impaired during the trip by comparing the impairment score to a threshold value. A specific time period during which the vehicle operator tends to be most impaired is determined based on the determinations of whether the vehicle operator was impaired. Recommendations to reduce operator impairment of the vehicle operator are identified and communicated to the vehicle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: STATE FARM MUTUAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY
    Inventors: Bryan Allen Plummer, Parker Andrew Brown, Jibo He, Brian Mark Fields, Steve Roberson, Steve Cielocha, Jufeng Peng
  • Patent number: 9932043
    Abstract: An operator identification control system and method are disclosed for a work vehicle having a cab, a work tool and a source of propulsion. The operator identification control system includes a source associated with the operator that actively transmits an operator identification to identify the operator. The operator identification control system also includes at least one controller onboard the work vehicle that receives and processes the operator identification to determine whether the operator is associated with the work vehicle, and based on the determination, enables an operation of the work tool and/or a motion of the work vehicle by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Keith N. Chaston, Eric S. Crawford, Joshua D. Hoffman, Mark J. Cherney
  • Patent number: 9932045
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a shuttle platform that is configured to allow a path for one or more passengers to load or unload from a light rail transit vehicle that runs on a shared track. The shuttle platform can move in a linear plane that is parallel to a ground level from a first position to a second position and/or the second position to the first position. The shuttle platform can be associated with a setback platform that provides a first path parallel to a centerline of the shared track and a second path parallel to the centerline of the shared track, wherein the first path is at a first height from the ground level, the second path is at a second height from the ground level, and the first path and the second path are adjacent to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORP.
    Inventors: John D. Geddie, Brian A. Moore, Larry Firlik, Jay Winborn, Christopher Kattola, Robert Kokx, Chris Dowdey, Alex Wittur, Gary Talbot, Kyle Giannaula, Greg Ford, Greg Leitz, Daniel L. Costea
  • Patent number: 9932046
    Abstract: Zip track systems and systems for extending zip track systems are provided. An extension mechanism for a zip track system illustratively comprises a crossover unit, configured to attach to a zip track. The crossover unit illustratively comprises a crossover arch and two crossover support poles, wherein each of the support poles connects to an end portion of the crossover arch such that the support poles are configured to stand perpendicular to the zip track. The extension system further illustratively comprises a connection mechanism configured to connect the crossover arch to the zip track system such that the crossover unit distributes the weight of the track through the crossover arch and the crossover support poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Landscape Structures Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Watermiller, Steven J. Schaust
  • Patent number: 9932047
    Abstract: In a method for producing different rail variants from an assembly set, and system having a vehicle which is movable on a rail part, the assembly set includes a rail profile part and two different reactive components, and the rail profile part includes an interface at which one of the different reactive components is optionally able to be connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: SEW-EURODRIVE GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Josef Schmidt, Ralf Berger, Markus Thome
  • Patent number: 9932048
    Abstract: A power system for a locomotive. The power system has a first power unit, a second power unit, a first inverter configured to power the first power unit or the second power unit, a second inverter configured to power the first power unit or the second power unit. Further the power system has a first controller selectively coupled to one of the first inverter or the second inverter to control the operation of the first inverter or the second inverter and a second controller selectively coupled to one of the first inverter or the second inverter to control the operation of the first inverter or the second inverter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Progress Rail Locomotive Inc.
    Inventor: Madan M Jalla
  • Patent number: 9932049
    Abstract: A railcar bodyshell includes: a plurality of modules into which at least one of a floor portion, side portion, and roof portion of the bodyshell is divided in a car longitudinal direction; and an elongated member extending in the car longitudinal direction, the plurality of modules being attached to the elongated member. The elongated member includes a groove portion for fixing the plurality of modules to the elongated member the groove portion extending in the car longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Eiichi Kato, Chihiro Okayama, Toshiyuki Hirashima, Akihiko Tada
  • Patent number: 9932050
    Abstract: A carbody support device of a railway vehicle, including support mechanisms installed between a front bogie and a carbody and between a rear bogie and the carbody in a traveling direction, and supporting the carbody against the respective bogies. The support mechanisms regulate both the front bogie and the rear bogie inclining in the same vehicle width direction with respect to the carbody when the railway vehicle travels through a curve, while the support mechanisms permit the front bogie and the rear bogie inclining in different vehicle width directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshi Sato, Yukitaka Taga, Shunichi Nakao, Kazuo Isomura, Makoto Tamaki, Junichi Shirakawa, Koichi Murata
  • Patent number: 9932051
    Abstract: A brake apparatus includes a first coupling member coupled to one end part of one of a pair of link arms, a second coupling member coupled to the one end part of the other of the pair of link arms to freely advance and retract with respect to the first coupling member, an actuator configured to advance and retract an output member, a lever rotatably coupled to the output member and configured to be rotated by advancing and retracting movements of the output member and a booster unit configured to advance and retract the second coupling member with respect to the first coupling member by boosting a force transmitted by the rotation of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: KYB Corporation
    Inventor: Tsutomu Suzuki
  • Patent number: 9932052
    Abstract: A locomotive brake controller that has a body configured to interconnect to a desktop location in the cab of a locomotive and a mount that can attach the base of the controller to a vertical stand in the cab of a locomotive. The controller also includes an operator interface adaptor that can be clocked relative to the body and an operator face plate that can be clocked relative to the mount depending on the location of installation to ensure proper tilting of the interface relative to the operator and proper orientation of the operator display. Alternatively, the adaptor may include a fixed face plate that includes a moveable display and an adhesive membrane with operator buttons to properly orient the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: NEW YORK AIR BRAKE, LLC
    Inventor: Erich Leonard
  • Patent number: 9932053
    Abstract: Provided is a hand brake limiting device, comprising a bearing I (10), a spring, a spring holder (12), a guide plate (9), and a guide plate holder (23); the bearing I (10) is disposed on the spring holder (12); the spring is sleeved on the outside of the bearing I (10); the guide plate (9) and the guide plate holder (23) are sequentially disposed at one side of the spring away from the spring holder (12); a stopper post III (7) is secured to one side of the spring holder (12) facing the spring; a stopper post In (8) is secured to one side of the guide plate (9) facing the spring; a stopper post II (26) is secured to one side of the guide plate holder (23) facing the guide plate (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: CRRC QINGDAO SIFANG ROLLING STOCK RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jingquan Bi, Chaoheng Wang, Xiangrui Li, Jigang Zhou, Xin Zhang, Chao Lin
  • Patent number: 9932054
    Abstract: A derailer for use in a railroad system, has an outside switch point that selectively overlays a running surface of a first mainline track and rises above the running surface of the first mainline track and an outside switch rail mechanically fastened to the outside switch point. The derailer also includes an inside switch rail including a second switch point that selectively lies adjacent a head of a second mainline track and terminates between the first and second mainline tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Progress Rail Services Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Weaver, Phillip Merrifield, Russell Hein
  • Patent number: 9932055
    Abstract: A rail vehicle has a tachometer-speed display device and an European train control system speed display device. In order to easily avoid the speed being read incorrectly by the vehicle driver in such a rail vehicle, the glass cover of the tachometer-speed display device is an electro chrome glass pane that contains an electrical connection device. A method also operates a rail vehicle which contains such a tachometer-speed display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Guido Fritzsch, Rupert Litterst
  • Patent number: 9932056
    Abstract: A cleaning cart has a base plate and a working plate arranged at a vertical distance above the base plate, wherein the base plate and the working plate are connected to each other by a linkage arranged in the vertical distance. The linkage is formed by at least two struts extending non-parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Carl Freudenberg KG
    Inventors: Andreas Eisenhut, Christoph Zimmermann, Bruno Meier, Christian Thoma
  • Patent number: 9932057
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for mounting an object to a pallet jack are disclosed. One apparatus includes a base, a hook, and a clamping element. The base is sized to be positioned on a head of the pallet jack. The hook is sized to engage an underside of the pallet jack. The hook is movably coupled to a front of the base such that a distance between the base and the hook is adjustable. The clamping element is coupled to a rear of the base. At least a portion of the clamping element is positioned to extend underneath the head of the pallet jack when the base is positioned on the head of the pallet jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Havis, Inc.
    Inventors: Pete Spera, Keith Davis, Dave Enama
  • Patent number: 9932058
    Abstract: Scaffolding transport carts for transporting scaffolding components from a jobsite delivery location to the location of scaffolding erection. Exemplary scaffolding transport cart embodiments may be moved and guided manually, or moved under the power of a motive device but under user control. A fully remote-controlled embodiment may also be provided. In any case, a scaffolding transport cart embodiment may dimensioned such that the scaffolding transport cart can fit through a standard doorway, even when loaded with scaffolding components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventors: Cathy R. Holloway, James R. Henderson
  • Patent number: 9932059
    Abstract: An accessory plate accommodates a caliper brake disc system in either a retrofit kit or in the original construction of wheelbarrows, hand carts and other wheeled, slow speed vehicles. The accessory plate or extension plate is secured to an axle or hub providing attachment to a caliper system. The accessory plate may be modified to accept other accessories, including but not limited to electric motors, drum brake arms and accessories, lights, battery packs or other accessories pertinent to the vehicle's enhanced operation. A hub system may be optionally used and may help to accommodate the installation of an accessory plate and/or rotor disc and/or drum brake or drum brake actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Richard J Kruppa
  • Patent number: 9932060
    Abstract: A heater unit includes a pair of substrates formed from a polymeric foam and a cord-shaped heater sandwiched between the pair of substrates. The thickness of a region of each of the substrates at which the cord-shaped heater is disposed is thinned relative to other regions of the substrates in such a manner as to be shaped to the cord-shaped heater and thus the heater unit forms a flat shape. In the heater unit, the substrates are bonded together by an adhesive layer that is composed only from a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignees: KURABE INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., TOYODA GOSEI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masatsugu Saito, Yuki Naito, Bunpei Morita, Atsushi Nagata, Norio Umemura
  • Patent number: 9932061
    Abstract: A steering column assembly comprises an adjustable shroud and a locking mechanism that comprises a clamp pin, a locking handle and a cam mechanism fitted to the clamp pin, in which the cam mechanism comprises first and second cam portions which can be moved relative to each other by operation of the locking handle to vary the overall length of the cam mechanism, the unlocked position of the cam mechanism being defined by contact of a first end stop of the first cam portion with a second end stop of the second cam portion. At least one of the end stops comprises a resilient cushioning member which provides cushioning as the at least one end stop engages the other end stop upon the locking mechanism reaching the unlocked position. The resilient cushioning member is free to move so that on a first engagement, a portion of the resilient cushioning member makes contact with the end stop; and on a second engagement, a different portion of the resilient cushioning member makes contact with the end stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: TRW Limited
    Inventor: Stephen Butler
  • Patent number: 9932062
    Abstract: A steering column assembly for a vehicle, the assembly having a steering wheel for steering the vehicle, a brake pedal for operating the vehicle brakes, wherein the steering wheel and a pivot for the brake pedal are carried on a four bar mechanism mounted on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: Bruno Sap
  • Patent number: 9932063
    Abstract: Vehicles and vehicle systems including locking devices are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a vehicle includes a front wheel, a steering rack assembly that includes a rack coupled to the front wheel, where the rack extends in a vehicle lateral direction and is translatable with respect to a unibody of the vehicle in the vehicle lateral direction, and a locking device coupled to the steering rack assembly, where the locking device includes a deactivated configuration that allows translation of the rack and an activated configuration that restricts translation of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Tyler E. Schnug, Gerritt B. Meyers
  • Patent number: 9932064
    Abstract: A power steering system for a motorcycle is provided. The motorcycle includes a front fork having a first vertical bar and a second vertical bar. The power steering system include at least one motor. A first belt portion includes a first end secured to the first vertical bar and a second end operatively connected to the motor. A second belt portion includes a first end secured to the second vertical bar and a second end operatively connected to the motor. A power source is electrically connected to the motor by wiring through a switch. The switch includes a switch knob operable to activate the switch from an off position to a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes the motor pulling the first belt portion and the second mode includes the motor pulling the second belt portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Royce Merrell Dyar
  • Patent number: 9932065
    Abstract: A steering device includes a motor, a first shaft, a transmitter, a second shaft, and an engagement portion. The first shaft of a hollow cylindrical shape is coupled in a torque transmittable manner to a steering member with which a driver performs steering operation. The transmitter is disposed on an outer circumference of the first shaft and configured to transmit torque of the motor to the first shaft. The second shaft is coupled in a torque transmittable manner to a wheel-turning unit configured to turn wheels. The second shaft is inserted in the first shaft. The engagement portion is interposed between an inner surface of the first shaft and an outer surface of the second shaft and configured to make the first shaft and the second shaft engage with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: SHOWA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hirotoshi Uchibori
  • Patent number: 9932066
    Abstract: A worm gearbox having a worm wheel is arranged, in a torsionally resistant manner, on a steering shaft and rotates around a steering axis. A worm shaft is supported to rotate around a rotational axis, with the worm shaft having an end on the engine side and an end away from the engine. Worm toothing engages the teeth of the worm wheel and when the worm shaft rotates around the rotational axis, the worm wheel and the steering shaft rotate around the steering axis. A gearbox housing supports the worm wheel and the worm shaft and allows them to rotate. A compensating element has a middle section, a rear end section connected to the gearbox housing and a front end section retaining the end away from the engine of the worm shaft or a holder accommodating the end away from the engine of the worm shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: IMS GEAR SE & CO. KGAA
    Inventors: Stephan Oberle, Gregor Mauerlechner
  • Patent number: 9932067
    Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus that calculates a current command value based on at least a steering torque, performs a PWM-control of a brushless motor by an inverter based on the current command value, performs a current control by detecting a rotational angle of the brushless motor, and performs an assist-control of a steering system. The apparatus includes three rotational angle detecting systems to detect three rotational angles of the brushless motor; and an angle diagnosing section that compares absolute values of differences on respective angles outputted from the three rotational angle detecting systems with a threshold, and performs a process by diagnosing whether the rotational angle detecting systems are normal or abnormal; wherein the assist control is continuously performed by using output angles outputted from systems diagnosed as being normal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: NSK LTD.
    Inventors: Kyosho Uryu, Shin Kumagai
  • Patent number: 9932068
    Abstract: A power steering system of a vehicle and a control method are provided. The system includes a main hydraulic motor that receives engine power and generates a hydraulic pressure and an auxiliary hydraulic motor that generates a hydraulic pressure. A front wheel steering cylinder receives hydraulic pressure and generates power for steering front wheels and auxiliary steering of a driver. A rear wheel steering cylinder receives hydraulic pressure and generates power for steering rear wheels. An integrated control valve connected to the hydraulic motors and the steering cylinders through hydraulic pressure pipelines, and adjusts the hydraulic pressure of a main hydraulic motor to supply the pressure to the front wheel steering cylinder and adjusts the hydraulic pressure generated of the auxiliary hydraulic motor to supply the pressure to the front or rear wheel steering cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Seung Hyun Oh
  • Patent number: 9932069
    Abstract: When a vehicle is quickly steered while the vehicle is travelling at an extremely low speed, a load on an in-vehicle power supply is reduced without deteriorating a steering feeling by reducing a motor driving current. A steering speed is compared with a threshold. When the steering speed is lower than the threshold, the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, a voltage value of a battery power supply, which is used as a prescribed value, is set as a limit voltage in order to reduce a motor consumption current. When the steering speed is higher than the threshold, a value “V0/n” lower than the prescribed value is set as the limit voltage to reduce a consumption current when the steering wheel is steered without driving. “n” is “delay adjustment parameter”, and is a real number that exceeds 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toyoki Sugiyama, Yasuyuki Yoshii
  • Patent number: 9932070
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a pair of left and right steerable wheels, a pair of left and right drivable wheels, and a boss portion that supports the steerable wheel pivotally about a steering axis via a king pin. The boss portion is closer to a width center of the steerable wheel than a vehicle body inner lateral side end of the steerable wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Robert Walden
  • Patent number: 9932071
    Abstract: An energy absorbing assembly includes a beam that extends in a first direction, a structural member that extends in a second direction transverse to the beam, a load transfer structure that restrains motion of the beam relative to the structural member by transferring lateral loads between the beam and the structural member, and a recess defined in the structural member. The beam is connected to the structural member within the recess and extends out of the recess. The beam is configured to shorten during an impact to define a failed portion of the beam, and the beam is connected to the structural member such that the failed portion of the beam is at least partially receivable in the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Tommaso P. Rivellini, Andrzej T. Baranski, Jean Paul Montant, Erik Mikael Fermer
  • Patent number: 9932072
    Abstract: A vehicle structure includes a battery, a chamber that is arranged on an outer side in a vehicle width direction of the battery and provided on part of an exhaust pipe through which emission gas from a fuel cell system is emitted outside a vehicle, and a side frame that is arranged between the battery and the chamber in the vehicle width direction and extends in a fore-and-aft direction. A slider member inclined inward in the vehicle width direction toward a lower side of the vehicle is arranged between the chamber and the side frame. A lower end portion of the slider member is in a position lower than a position of a lower end portion of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ryota Imura, Masanori Hayashi, Tamaki Mikami
  • Patent number: 9932073
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a frame, a left and right front wheel, and a left and right rear wheel. A left front suspension operatively and a right front suspension operatively respectively operatively connect the left and right front wheels to the frame. A left and right rear suspension, respectively operatively connect the left and right rear wheels to the frame. At least one seat, connected to the frame and having a seat base, is disposed longitudinally rearward of the left and right front suspensions. An engine is operatively connected to at least one of the wheels. An air induction system fluidly, which includes an airbox, and a fuel tank fluidly communicate with the engine. The engine, the airbox and the fuel tank are disposed longitudinally forward of the rear suspensions and longitudinally rearward of the seat base of the at least one seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Frank Dube, Dominic Otis-Aubut
  • Patent number: 9932074
    Abstract: An active vehicle ground effect system having at least one guiding piece coupled to an undercarriage of a vehicle, where the at least one guiding piece has a configuration to guide an airflow between the undercarriage of the vehicle and a ground while the vehicle is moving. The active vehicle ground effect system has an actuator coupled to the at least one guiding piece. The system has a controller configured to activate the at least one guiding piece from a first position to a second position when an activating condition is met. When a deactivating condition is met, the controller deactivates the at least one guiding piece by moving the at least one guiding piece from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: FARADAY & FUTURE INC.
    Inventor: Ara Sarhadiangardabad
  • Patent number: 9932075
    Abstract: A spare wheel assembly includes a spare-wheel cap having a core, and raised fins radially extending from the core toward a perimeter of the cap to form a cross and configured to provide gripping portions for rotating the cap. The spare wheel assembly further includes an ornament-removal tool having a handle and a longitudinal member extending therefrom. Some of the fins define recesses configured to receive and retain the handle and member to removably secure the tool to the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Neal Koenig, Luis Felipe Sanchez Curiel Nyssen, Laura Imelda Luengo Herrero, Brenna Liu, Alexia Cassandra De Anda Martinez
  • Patent number: 9932076
    Abstract: A track cleaning system includes a vehicle that has at least one track. A collection unit is coupled to the at least one track. The collection unit collects debris that collects on the at least one track. The collection unit is electrically coupled to the vehicle. The collection unit is actuated to vibrate. Thus, the collection unit may dislodge the debris from the at least one track thereby inhibiting the debris from impeding performance of the at least one track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Kim Conover