Patents Issued in May 3, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180118241
    Abstract: A train safety assembly has an onboard apparatus of a first train safety system and a specific transmission device for transmission with a trackside part of a second train safety system. The onboard apparatus is started using a version of a first software and the specific transmission device is started using a version of a second software. The versions of the first and second software are checked for their compatibility. In order to be able to provide the train safety assembly for use on a track section, which is equipped with the trackside part of the second train safety system, and to put same into operation in a faster and more cost-efficient manner, if the started versions of the first and second software are incompatible, the transmission device is automatically restarted with another version of the second software, and the started first and second software are checked for their compatibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: FRANK SIMON
  • Publication number: 20180118242
    Abstract: A hand truck nose extension device and a method of use are disclosed herein. The disclosed device generally comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, and a hand truck nose receiving slot disposed between the top surface and the bottom surface, the hand truck nose receiving slot being arranged and configured for receiving and retaining a load supporting nose of a conventional hand truck. The disclosed hand truck nose extension device may be utilized to support and transport large, bulky and/or heavy loads using a conventional hand truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Pollard, Johnston & Berry, LLC
    Inventors: Gene Pollard, Jason Johnston, Kenneth Darrel Pollard
  • Publication number: 20180118243
    Abstract: A foldable wagon is provided that is configurable in a use configuration and folded configuration. The foldable wagon has a front frame assembly, a rear frame assembly, a first upper pivot bracket and a first lower pivot bracket connecting the front frame assembly to the rear frame assembly. The wagon has a timing member to maintain the front and rear frame assemblies synched during folding and unfolding of the wagon. The wagon also has a footrest with a first end connected to the rear frame assembly and a second end free from connection to the front frame assembly. When the second end of the footrest is raised the rear frame assembly and the front frame assembly pivot from the use configuration to the folded configuration. The wagon also has foldable front and rear seatbacks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Jason Fitzwater, Matthew E. Young
  • Publication number: 20180118244
    Abstract: A pedal driven cart system combining pedals and a cart includes a shopping cart. A pedal unit is provided. The pedal unit is removably coupled to the shopping cart. Thus, the pedal unit is pedaled thereby facilitating the shopping cart to be rolled along a support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Ramzi Salha
  • Publication number: 20180118245
    Abstract: An electrically driven moving vehicle includes a main body on which an article to be transported is loaded, and a handle provided on one side of the main body. A pair of force sensor units are provided in the handle. A force applied by a user is sensed by the pair of force sensor units to control the operation of electric motors. The user can operate the electrically driven moving vehicle while holding a position convenient for the user rather than a specific position of the handle. In addition, the user can conveniently operate the electrically driven moving vehicle with only one hand, without using both hands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Jinwon Chung, Sangok Seok, Inhyeok Kim, Dongil Choi
  • Publication number: 20180118246
    Abstract: A canopy assembly is provided for a ride-on vehicle including a canopy and a canopy frame assembly. The canopy frame assembly has a housing, a release member connected to the housing, a canopy support extending through the housing, and a connector connected to the canopy support. The canopy support has a first stop adjacent a first end of the canopy support and a second stop adjacent a second end of the canopy support. The release member engages the canopy support at the first stop to maintain the canopy support in the first position, wherein the canopy support is retracted, and at the second stop to maintain the canopy support in the second position, wherein the canopy support is in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Jason Fitzwater, Collin Ostergaard
  • Publication number: 20180118247
    Abstract: Each of detection units detects electrostatic capacitance values Cc, Cr, Cl produced between sensors and a passenger H, based on electrical signals Sc, Sr, Sl outputted from the sensors, respectively. A total value calculation unit sums electrostatic capacitance values Cc, Cr, Cl to calculate a total value Ct of the electrostatic capacitance values Cc, Cr, Cl. A comparison determination unit compares the total value Ct with a first threshold value Cth1 to make a contact determination of whether the passenger H is in contact with a steering wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Shotaro Odate
  • Publication number: 20180118248
    Abstract: A temperature control device for temperature control of a steering device, characterized in that the temperature control device has at least one heat-conducting device, at least one thermoelectric device, and at least one fluid transport apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: John David Lofy, Michael Weiß, Denise Philipp, Martin Adldinger
  • Publication number: 20180118249
    Abstract: A cam lock mechanism used for locking an adjustable steering column in a position comprises a fixed cam (52)defining a geometric reference plane (101) for the lock mechanism, a tensioning member (16), the tensioning member being able to move at least translationally with respect to the fixed cam parallel to a locking axis (100) perpendicular to the reference plane, in a tensioning direction; and a mobile cam (54) able to move with respect to the fixed cam along a pathway in a locking direction and interacting with the fixed cam in such a way that movement of the mobile cam along the pathway in the locking direction causes translational movement of the tensioning member (16) parallel to the locking axis in the tensioning direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Eddy Dupont, Alexandre Sarandao
  • Publication number: 20180118250
    Abstract: The disclosure concerns a crumple element for a steering column. In order to provide a reliable, structurally simple steering column, according to the disclosure, it is provided that the crumple element has first and second connecting portions arranged axially at an end to connect adjacent steering column parts, and an interrupted crumple portion arranged in between the first and second connecting portions, and is able to deform by a threshold force acting axially, while the connecting portions are deformation-resistant to the threshold force. The crumple element is made integrally by additive production from metal. An end region of the first connecting portion facing the crumple portion has a first portion that protrudes axially relative to a second portion lying opposite the first portion transversely to the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Bruno ALVES
  • Publication number: 20180118251
    Abstract: A rack-and-pinion type steering apparatus 1 comprises a gear case 3 made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy and having a hollow portion 2; a steering shaft 6 rotatably supported by the gear case 3 through rolling bearings 4 and 5; a pinion 7 which is provided integrally on a shaft end portion of the steering shaft 6 and is rotatably supported in the hollow portion 2 by the gear case 3 through the steering shaft 6; a rack bar 9 on which rack teeth 8 meshing with the pinion 7 are formed; a rack guide 10 which is disposed in the hollow portion 2 of the gear case 3 and supports the rack bar 9 slidably; and a spring 11 constituted by a coil spring for pressing the rack guide 10 toward the rack bar 9.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Takuya MAEDA
  • Publication number: 20180118252
    Abstract: A rack-parallel steering system that prevents entry of abrasion powder into a rolling bearing is provided. A steering system includes a steered shaft, a rolling element screw portion, a rolling element nut, and a ball screw device. The steering system includes: a motor including an output shaft offset from the steered shaft; a drive force transfer mechanism including a toothed drive pulley, a toothed driven pulley, and a toothed belt; and a rolling bearing supporting a ball screw nut to be rotatable relative to a housing. A first seal member that contacts an outer ring and an inner ring is provided on a side surface of the rolling bearing on the driven pulley side. A second seal member that does not contact the inner ring is provided on a side surface of the ball bearing on the side opposite to the side surface on the driven pulley side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshio KONDO, Masashi YAMAGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20180118253
    Abstract: An electric power steering control apparatus that assists a steering operation made by a driver with a motor includes: a target torque calculation unit calculating a target steering torque; an assist torque calculation unit calculating an assist torque which enables an actual steering torque follows close to the target steering torque according to a difference therebetween; a motor drive unit driving a motor acting on a steering system mechanism so that a steering angle of vehicle is changed according to the assist torque; and a followability change unit that detects an abnormality of a torque sensor for detecting the actual steering torque. When abnormality is detected in the torque sensor, a followability of the actual steering torque to the target steering torque controlled by the assist torque is degraded compared with a case where no abnormality is detected in the torque sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Yuuichi Minamiguchi, Motoaki Kataoka
  • Publication number: 20180118254
    Abstract: A steering control device has a steering actuator as an operation target, the steering actuator includes a motor and a steering mechanism mechanically connected to a rotary shaft of the motor. The steering control device includes a controller configured to perform i) a low-temperature process of changing a torque of the motor when an estimated value estimated from a temperature of a lubrication target part of the steering mechanism is equal to or lower than a predetermined value with respect to when the estimated value is higher than the predetermined value and ii) an estimation process of calculating the estimated value which is set be lower than a detected value of a temperature sensor detecting a temperature of a predetermined member attached to the steering mechanism based on a heat emission parameter of the steering actuator associated with a current flow with the detected value as an input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicants: JTEKT CORPORATION, DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takahiro TOKO, Hiromasa TAMAKI, Akira NAMBU, Takahiro KOJO, Nobuyori NAKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20180118255
    Abstract: A self-setting valve assembly for a power steering gear assembly includes a plug, a first plunger, a second plunger, and a biasing member. The plug extends between a first end and a second end. The plug defines a cavity that is disposed between the first end and the second end, a first bore that extends from the first end to the cavity, and a second bore that extends from the second end to the cavity. The first plunger has a first head that is disposed within the cavity and a first stem that extends from the first head through the first bore. The second plunger has a second head that is disposed within the cavity and a second stem that extends from the first head through the second bore. The biasing member is disposed within the bore and extending between the first head and the second head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Albert C. Wong, Thomas C. Rytlewski, Jason A. Dutsky
  • Publication number: 20180118256
    Abstract: A control system for a steering a work machine is disclosed. The control system may include a steering input device configured to steer a lead machine module and an articulation module disposed between the lead machine module and a trailing machine module. The control system may further include a first articulation cylinder and a second articulation cylinder configured to actuate between a first and second cylinder first position and a first and second cylinder second position. Furthermore, an electronic controller in communication with the first and second articulation cylinders and programmed to transmit a control signal such that the first actuation cylinder actuates between the first actuation cylinder first position and the first actuation cylinder second position and the second actuation cylinder actuates between the second actuation cylinder first position and the second actuation cylinder second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Xinyu Ge
  • Publication number: 20180118257
    Abstract: A steering control device that can set and cancel an automatic driving mode includes a steering control unit, a cancellation instruction detection unit, a stop detection unit, and a steering angle reduction unit. The steering control unit controls a steering angle in the automatic driving mode so that a vehicle travels along an intended route. The cancellation instruction detection unit detects a cancellation instruction to cancel the automatic driving mode. The stop detection unit detects a stop of the vehicle. The steering angle reduction unit reduces the steering angle set by the steering control unit, if the cancellation instruction detection unit detects the cancellation instruction and the stop detection unit detects the stop of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Rui Fujino, Hirotaka Tokoro
  • Publication number: 20180118258
    Abstract: When an adjustment information input unit (1) acquires one of information of a feeling value and steering control information, a steering control information calculation unit (2) calculates data of a control characteristic graph visually representing control characteristics of steering using the acquired information. An adjustment information display unit (3) displays, on the same screen, a control characteristic graph in accordance with the data of the control characteristic graph and a feeling value operation section visually showing the feeling value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Reiko SAKATA, Yoshimichi UMEKI, Tsutomu MATSUBARA, Yoshiki ONO, Hiroaki KITANO, Masaya ENDO
  • Publication number: 20180118259
    Abstract: A torsion bar for a steering system includes a main body. Also included is an end region having a cylindrical outer surface extending from an axial end surface. Further included is a serrated portion disposed proximate the end region and axially offset from the axial end surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Daniel J. Diffin, David E. King, Mark A. Wolfer, Christopher L. Walsh
  • Publication number: 20180118260
    Abstract: A guide set unit (3) sets an edit guide for adjusting steering feeling to steering control information. An adjustment information display unit (2) displays, on the same screen, a control characteristic graph visually representing the steering control information and the edit guide. A graph edit unit (4) edits the control characteristic graph using edit information when the edit information input unit (1) acquires the edit information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Reiko SAKATA, Yoshimichi UMEKI, Tsutomu MATSUBARA
  • Publication number: 20180118261
    Abstract: A bulldozer is provided with left and right steering brakes that brake the rotations of left and right drive wheels, and a control unit for hydraulically controlling the braking state of the respective left and right steering brakes. The control unit executes protection processing on the left steering brake or the right steering brake when a state of the degree of engagement of the left steering brake or the right steering brake being within a predetermined range and the vehicle speed being equal to or greater than a predetermined vehicle speed continues for a predetermined time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi SASADA, Hiroaki TAKESHIMA, Osamu TAKATORI
  • Publication number: 20180118262
    Abstract: A steerable drive axle for a tracked work vehicle may generally include an axle body extending lengthwise between first and second ends and an axle support assembly pivotally coupled to one of the first end or the second end of the axle body. The axle support assembly may include an inboard support member configured to extend at least partially along an inboard side of a drive wheel of the tracked work vehicle, an outboard support member configured to extend at least partially along an outboard side of the drive wheel, and a non-rotating planetary carrier extending lengthwise between an inboard end and an outboard end. The inboard end may be coupled to the inboard support member and the outboard end may be coupled to the outboard support member. Additionally, the non-rotating planetary carrier may be configured to support a plurality of planetary gears between the inboard and outboard ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Brian Vik
  • Publication number: 20180118263
    Abstract: A method for distinguishing intentional steering movements of a driver for influencing an intentional driving path of a motor vehicle from corrective steering movements of the driver as a reaction to unexpected deviations of the motor vehicle from the intentional driving path including ascertaining an instantaneous undisturbed motion of the vehicle along the driving path and calculating a reference value for a steering angle (SAR) corresponding to the ascertained, undisturbed motion of the motor vehicle or a reference value for a steering velocity (SVR) corresponding to the ascertained, undisturbed motion of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Schiebahn, Peter W.A. Zegelaar, Helmuth Bosch
  • Publication number: 20180118264
    Abstract: A narrow-passage assistance system is provided for a motor vehicle having at least one electronic control unit, which detects a narrow passage in the form of the presence of two objects that restrict the ego-vehicle on both sides in accordance with signals of various sensors known per se for sensing lateral obstacles and which controls transverse positioning of the ego-vehicle between the two objects by at least one transversely-guiding actuator. The control unit contains a transverse guidance module, which is designed such that the transverse guidance module can distinguish between dynamic and static objects. If a static object is detected on one side of the ego-vehicle and a dynamic object is detected on the other side of the ego-vehicle, transverse positioning of the ego-vehicle closer to the static object is performed if necessary. The transverse guidance module is also designed such that the transverse guidance module distinguishes between soft and hard objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Bartono ADIPRASITO, Helena MUSSNER
  • Publication number: 20180118265
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis includes a core of synthetic foam having an elongate shape with a length, greater than a width, defining a longitudinal direction; an upper plate, its surface substantially matching the surface of the core; and a lower plate, its surface substantially matching the surface of the core. The core is sandwiched between the upper plate and the lower plate while being rigidly connected thereto, and is reinforced by at least one metal tube arranged longitudinally over a portion of the length of the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Jean-Louis GALLIER
  • Publication number: 20180118266
    Abstract: A push arm is coupled to a vehicle frame proximate an intersection of a first side member and a first cross-member. A rear surface of the push arm is located adjacent to a front suspension structure with a gap defined therebetween. The push arm extends forward and laterally outward such that a front surface of the push arm is located outboard of and spaced apart from a front end of the first side member. A energy absorbing structure is positioned within the gap and is attached to the rear surface of the push arm. The energy absorbing structure is spaced apart from the front suspension structure in a non-impacted state. The energy absorbing structure is configured such that in response to an off-center impact event, impact force to the energy absorbing structure pushes the energy absorbing structure into contact with the front suspension structure, such that the energy absorbing structure deforms and absorbs impact energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Takemi NISHIKAWA, Kazunori IIMI, Takao TANI, Hideo AIMOTO, Naoki KAMIZAWA, Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Perry MCCONNELL
  • Publication number: 20180118267
    Abstract: An off-center impact reinforcement structure includes a push arm and a first diagonals structure installed to elements of a frame of a vehicle structure. The push arm is coupled to the frame proximate an intersection of a first side member and a first cross-member and extends in a forward and laterally outboard direction from the intersection. The first diagonal structure extends rearward and laterally inboard from proximate the intersection toward a section of a second side member rearward of the first cross-member. The off-center impact reinforcement structure is configured such that during an off-center impact event in which a stationary barrier impacts against a front surface of the push arm during forward movement of the vehicle frame, impacting forces from the impact event are transferred through the push arm to the vehicle frame at the intersection and from the intersection to the first diagonal structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Kazunori IIMI, Takemi NISHIKAWA, Takao TANI, Hideo AIMOTO, Naoki KAMIZAWA, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Joseph Bruno BURATTO, Perry MCCONNELL, David James WOZNIAK, Michael James MCGORY, Gunnar MASON, Matthew Michael GAPINSKI
  • Publication number: 20180118268
    Abstract: A vehicle structure includes a vehicle frame and a push arm. The vehicle frame includes surfaces that define an intersection of a first side member and a first cross-member. The surfaces extend from the first side member to the first cross-member with an upper surface of a mid-section of the first cross-member being vertically spaced apart from an upper surface of the first side member. The push arm is coupled to the vehicle frame proximate the intersection. A rear surface of the push arm faces and is adjacent to a front area of the intersection. A main body of the push arm extends forward and laterally outboard from the rear surface such that the front surface is located laterally outboard of the first side member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Joseph Bruno BURATTO, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Perry MCCONNELL
  • Publication number: 20180118269
    Abstract: A first structure extends to a forward side of a cross-member of a vehicle frame with a first gap being defined between the first structure and the cross-member. A second structure extends rearward from the cross-member with a second gap defined between the second structure and the cross-member. An attachment bracket fixed to the cross-member retains one of the first and second structures. The attachment bracket is configured to maintain one of the first gap and the second gap in a non-impacted state. In response to an impact event where a stationary barrier impacts forward of the first structure, impacting forces cause movement of the one of the first structure and the second structure relative to the attachment bracket thereby bringing at least the one of the first structure and the second structure into contact with the cross-member closing the corresponding one of the first gap and the second gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Michael James MCGORY
  • Publication number: 20180118270
    Abstract: A front suspension structure has a front portion on a first side member of a vehicle frame and a rear portion on the first side member rearward of the front portion. A front wheel is supported by a wheel support structure that is pivotally mounted to a front suspension structure of the first side member. A stop structure is installed to the first side member at the rear portion of the front suspension structure. The stop structure extends in an outboard of the first side member. The stop structure has a stop surface that defines an angle relative to the vehicle longitudinal direction between 110 and 130 degrees. In response to an impact event to a front area of the front wheel, the front wheel pivots relative to the wheel support structure moving a rear area of the front wheel into contact with the stop surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Takao TANI, Takemi NISHIKAWA, Kazunori IIMI, Hideo AIMOTO, Naoki KAMIZAWA, Joseph Bruno BURATTO, Perry MCCONNELL, Michael James MCGORY
  • Publication number: 20180118271
    Abstract: A front vehicle body reinforcing structure may include a front side member formed to extend along a longitudinal direction of a vehicle and respectively disposed on both sides along a width direction of the vehicle; a side seal member formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and disposed on both sides outside of the front side member along the width direction of the vehicle; and a reinforcing member formed to extend along the width direction of the vehicle and having one end portion and the other end portion, respectively coupled to the front side member and the side seal member to connect the front side member and the side seal member, increasing a structural strength to effectively respond to a front collision accident and a front small overlap collision accident.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Ildo KIM
  • Publication number: 20180118272
    Abstract: A vehicle structure includes a frame and a push arm. The push arm is coupled to a first side member of the frame proximate an intersection of the first side member and a first cross-member. The push arm has a main body, a rear surface, and a front surface. The rear surface faces and is adjacent to the intersection. The main body extends forward and laterally in an outboard direction from the rear surface such that the front surface of the push arm is located laterally outboard of and spaced apart from a front end of the first side member of the frame. The front surface has a first section and a second section both facing forward relative to the frame. The second section is angularly offset from the first section such that the second section and the first section define an obtuse angle therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Takemi NISHIKAWA, Kazunori IIMI, Takao TANI, Hideo AIMOTO, Naoki KAMIZAWA, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Perry Bruno MCCONNELL, David James WOZNIAK, Michael James MCGORY
  • Publication number: 20180118273
    Abstract: A vehicle frame has a first side member, a second side member and a cross-member. The first and second side members extend in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The cross-member extends in a vehicle lateral direction between the first and second side members. The cross-member is fixed to the first side member and the second side member. A mid-portion of the cross-member has a first upright wall and a second upright wall spaced apart from one another defining a hollow area therebetween. A bulkhead is installed within the cross-member between the first upright wall and the second upright wall. The bulkhead has a plurality of surface sections that extend between the first upright wall and the second upright wall and perpendicular to the first upright wall and the second upright wall. The bulkhead is configured to restrict movement of the first upright wall relative to the second upright wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Perry MCCONNELL, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Patrick Dean GRATTAN
  • Publication number: 20180118274
    Abstract: A vehicle structure includes a frame and a diagonal structure. The frame has a first side member, a second side member and a cross-member that extends in a vehicle lateral direction between the first and second side members. The cross-member is perpendicular to the first and second side members. The diagonal structure has a beam with a rear end that extends to an area of the second side member rearward of the cross-member. An angle of between 35 and 60 degrees is defined between the cross-member and the beam of the diagonal structure. The rear end of the beam is supported to the second side member by a rear attachment bracket such that the rear end of the beam is spaced apart from the second side member with a rear gap being defined between the rear end of the beam and the second side member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Perry MCCONNELL, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Joseph Bruno BURATTO, Michael James MCGORY
  • Publication number: 20180118275
    Abstract: A push arm has a rear surface and a front surface. A rear surface of the push arm is located adjacent to and spaced apart from a first cross-member defining a gap therebetween. The push arm extends forward and laterally outward such that the front surface of the push arm is located laterally outboard of and spaced apart from a front end of a first side member of a vehicle frame. A support bracket has a front section releasably attached to the push arm and a rear section releasably attached to a first cross-member of the vehicle frame adjacent to an intersection of the first side member and the first cross-member. The support bracket is configured such that in response to an off-center impact event against the front surface of the push arm, the support bracket guiding movement of the push arm in a rearward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Patrick Dean GRATTAN, Christopher Robert HARTLEY, Gunnar MASON, Matthew Michael GAPINSKI
  • Publication number: 20180118276
    Abstract: A stiffening assembly for a vehicle cowl panel includes a pair of cooperating C-shaped brackets. Each of the pair of cooperating C-shaped brackets comprises cooperating bracket arms adapted for holding opposed ends of the pair of cooperating C-shaped brackets at varying distances from one another. Each of the pair of cooperating C-shaped brackets comprises a pair of parallel bracket arms which align with one another when the stiffening assembly is attached to the cowl panel. Cowl panel and instrument panel assemblies incorporating one or more stiffening assemblies and vehicles incorporating the cowl panel and instrument panel assemblies are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Sreenivas Kuchibhatla
  • Publication number: 20180118277
    Abstract: A vehicle framework structure includes a tunnel disposed in a central part of a floor panel of a vehicle in a vehicle width direction so as to extend in a vehicle front-rear direction, a pair of rockers, a floor lower cross structure, and a floor frame. A front end of the floor frame in the vehicle front-rear direction is connected to a front side structure provided in a vehicle front part so as to be disposed between one of the rockers and the tunnel in the vehicle width direction and to extend along the vehicle front-rear direction, and a rear end of the floor frame is connected to the one of the rockers and the floor lower cross structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Koji Saeki
  • Publication number: 20180118278
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a receiving element for a torsion bar. In order to devise a motor vehicle which has a receiving element for a torsion bar and in which the receiving element has a simple design and reduced weight while avoiding drawbacks in respect of the sealing effect and the available space, the receiving element consists essentially of a monolithic extruded profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2018
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Mihaly GONDA
  • Publication number: 20180118279
    Abstract: Disclosed is an impact-absorbing reinforcement structure for center pillars including a high-strength section, a medium-strength section and a low-strength section, divided from each other and integrally formed. The high-strength section is composed of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) formed by impregnating carbon fiber with a resin and is disposed at the upper region of a vehicle center pillar; the low-strength section is composed of a composite material formed by impregnating carbon fiber and olefin-based fiber with a resin, has lower strength than the high-strength section and is disposed at a lower region of the vehicle center pillar; and the medium-strength section is composed of a composite material formed by impregnating carbon fiber and olefin-based fiber with a resin, has strength between the strength of the high-strength section and the low-strength section and is disposed at a central region of the vehicle center pillar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Moon Seop LEE, Jeong Min CHO, Hoon CHANG
  • Publication number: 20180118280
    Abstract: A pickup truck box assembly includes a truck bed, an inner side panel, and a D-pillar. The truck bed is secured on a rear edge to a rear cross-member. The inner side panel is mounted to the truck bed. The D-pillar includes an inner part secured to the cross-member and inner side panel, and an outer part secured to the inner part and disposed between an outer side panel and the inner part. The D-pillar inner part includes a U-shaped portion and a first flange extending rearward substantially ninety degrees from the U-shaped portion in a plane substantially parallel to the side panel and a second flange extending from the U-shaped portion outboard of the inner side panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Jack Marchlewski, Robert Reiners, Dragan B. Stojkovic, Joshua R. Hemphill
  • Publication number: 20180118281
    Abstract: A removable spoiler wing assembly having a trunk lid portion, a fix portion, a primary spoiler wing structure, and a secondary spoiler wing structure is provided. The trunk lid portion has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The fix portion is disposed on the second end of the trunk lid portion. The primary spoiler wing structure is removable and is disposed on the fix portion. The secondary spoiler wing structure is removable and is disposed on the second end of the trunk lid portion, the fix portion, or the primary spoiler wing structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas Yu LEE
  • Publication number: 20180118282
    Abstract: A wind deflector module for a motor vehicle includes an aerodynamic component which is arranged so as to be movable on the outside of the motor vehicle, a drive unit configured to be movable in a Z direction of the motor vehicle and being mechanically connected to the aerodynamic component in order to move the aerodynamic component, and a mounting bracket mechanically connected to the drive unit in order to mount the drive unit. The mounting bracket is mounted on a support frame of the motor vehicle so as to be adjustable with respect to a Y and/or an X direction of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Tobias Posch, Sebastian Weber, Riccardo Bauer
  • Publication number: 20180118283
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of a spare tire carrier for a vehicle that can be adjustable for moving the spare tire into different positions. The spare tire carrier can be attached to existing components of a vehicle in order to move the spare tire's position, which can be advantageous for avoiding environmental hazards when off-roading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Carlos Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20180118284
    Abstract: A ballast assembly for a work vehicle. The ballast assembly includes a frame, a ballast weight, and a lift. The frame is included in an underside of the work vehicle. The ballast weight has a first portion and a second portion. The lift has an upper end pivotally coupled to the frame and a lower end releasably coupled to the ballast weight. The first and second portions are configured to engage with a ground surface and the frame, respectively, when the ballast weight is loaded onto the work vehicle. The first and second portions are configured to engage with the frame when the ballast weight is loaded onto the work vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: STEVEN A. DUPPONG, DAVID RIX, GARY S. KEYS, II, KENDALL L. GIESMANN, ERIC M. FORBES, NICHOLAS TAYLOR, RAZVAN PLATON, ANDREW W KEENAN
  • Publication number: 20180118285
    Abstract: A track assembly includes an elongated main frame supported for pivotal movement on a transverse axis and having opposite end portions supporting a set of end wheels. An endless flexible belt extends around the end wheels and has an upper run and a lower run for engaging the ground. A plurality of longitudinally spaced bogie wheels are positioned below the main frame and engage the lower run of the belt. The bogie wheels are carried by bogie frames supported for vertical movement and also for tilting movement relative to a plane defined by the axes of the end wheels. The bogie frames are urged or biased downwardly against the lower run of the belt by compression members extending from the main frame and preferably in the form of annular rubber spring members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventor: Sean M. Kahlig
  • Publication number: 20180118286
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to vehicle and machinery in agriculture, construction, forestry, mining and powersport. It further generally relates to track systems and traction assemblies used with such vehicles. The track system comprises a drive wheel and a plurality of idler wheels mounted on a support frame. At least one of the plurality of wheels is operatively mounted on the support frame via a damping system adapted to provide a damping value dynamically varying as a function of the load applied. Track systems do not benefit from the damping provided by the layer of air within the tires. The disclosed damping system has the objective to overcome one this drawback by providing a smooth ride for tracked vehicles. The damping system comprises a cylinder fluidly connected to a reservoir. Damping ratio is varied by varying a flow circulating area between the cylinder and the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Yves SAUVAGEAU, Jonathan PELLERIN
  • Publication number: 20180118287
    Abstract: Endless track system tensioning system comprising: Tensioner having a cylinder and a piston within the cylinder forming a variable volume chamber containing liquid. Reservoir containing liquid and gas fluidly connected to the cylinder chamber. Conduit fluidly connected between the chamber and the reservoir allowing liquid to flow therebetween to move a position of the piston. The gas applying hydrostatic pressure to liquid biasing the piston toward an extended position, biasing an idler wheel assembly against an endless track. Valve disposed along the conduit for controlling liquid flow through the conduit, movable between: Open position in which liquid is allowed to flow, rendering piston movable, allowing for relative movement between a frame and an idler wheel assembly. Closed position in which liquid is prevented from flowing rendering piston effectively immovable within the chamber, effectively preventing relative movement between frame and idler wheel assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Yves SAUVAGEAU, Andre LEGER
  • Publication number: 20180118288
    Abstract: Endless vehicle tracks including a body having an outer surface formed of an elastomeric material displaying a series of ground engaging profiles longitudinally spaced along the outer surface, and an inner surface formed a urethane reinforcement material. The inner surface generally displays a series of longitudinally spaced guide-drive lugs for retaining the track on the vehicle and/or driving the vehicle. In some aspects, the urethane reinforcement defines the inner surface of the body, and the urethane reinforcement may even be a continuous structure forming a base of the inner surface. In some cases, the urethane reinforcement defines wheel path regions of the body, and the urethane reinforcement may even form the guide-drive lugs. In some embodiments, the endless vehicle track further includes a fabric reinforcement layer disposed beneath or upon the outer surface of the upper face of the guide-drive lugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Matthew A. Linn, Robert I. Anderson, JR., James Weir
  • Publication number: 20180118289
    Abstract: A track for traction of a vehicle, such as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), a snowmobile, an agricultural vehicle, etc. The track may have rigidity (i.e., stiffness) characteristics to enhance its traction, floatation, and/or other aspects of its performance. For example, in some embodiments, a lateral bending stiffness of a carcass of the track may be symmetric while a longitudinal bending stiffness of the carcass of the track may be asymmetric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: GUILLAUME LAPLANTE, JULES DANDURAND, ANDY LEVESQUE
  • Publication number: 20180118290
    Abstract: A system for monitoring the track tension for a track assembly of a work vehicle may include a track tensioning assembly having a fluid-driven actuator. The actuator may be configured to adjust the track tension of the track assembly based on a fluid pressure of fluid within the actuator. The system may also include a wireless pressure sensor provided in operative association with the actuator that is configured to detect the fluid pressure within the actuator. Additionally, the system may include controller communicatively coupled to the wireless pressure sensor. The controller may be configured to monitor the fluid pressure within the actuator based on wireless pressure signals received from the wireless pressure sensor, wherein the monitored fluid pressure is indicative of the track tension for the track assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Publication date: May 3, 2018
    Inventors: Brian Vik, Paul E. Wibbels