Patents Issued in July 10, 2018
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Patent number: 10017050Abstract: A valve device includes a float and a case storing the float. The valve device forms a part of a ventilation passage of a fuel tank. The case includes a partition wall which divides inside the case into an upper chamber and a storage chamber to house the float. The partition wall includes a rising portion opened and closed by the float, and a rising portion which surrounds the opening in the upper chamber. A dividing portion is formed in the rising portion to guide liquid to flow downward, and an upper surface of the partition wall outside the rising portion is formed with a gradient such that a side of the dividing part is a low part of an inclined portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: NIFCO INC.Inventor: Kensuke Ogose
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Patent number: 10017051Abstract: A tank filler neck for a motor vehicle, and a motor vehicle having such a tank filler neck. The tank filler neck includes a plastic tube, a filler head composed of metal to enclose the plastic tube at an end thereof, and a first seal composed of an elastomer arranged on the circumference between the plastic tube and the filler head; a first seal composed of an elastomer, and which is arranged circumferentially between the first tube and the filler head; and a first supporting ring arranged opposite to the first seal in relation to the first tube, wherein the first supporting ring has a wall thickness that is greater than a wall thickness of the filler head.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: MAGNA STEYR Fuel Systems GesmbHInventors: René Hendler, Bernd Kahler
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Patent number: 10017052Abstract: A fuel inlet 10 includes a fuel inlet body 11 that is formed of resin including a reception pipe portion 20, a filler pipe connection pipe portion 30, a breather pipe connection pipe portion 40, and a fluid introduction portion 60. The reception pipe portion 60 receives a fuel nozzle 3. The filler pipe connection pipe portion 30 is located on a lower side of the reception pipe portion 20 and is connected to a filler pipe 31. The breather pipe connection pipe portion 40 is located on an upper side of the reception pipe portion 20 and is connected to a breather pipe 41. The fluid introduction portion 20 causes foamed fluid to flow along an inner wall surface of the reception pipe portion 20 while liquefying the foamed fluid, the foamed fluid flowing from the breather pipe connection pipe portion 40 to the reception pipe portion 20.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazunari Nakaya, Naoki Tabuchi, Hironori Koyama
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Patent number: 10017053Abstract: A fluid turbine system is provided for harnessing light radiant energy, thermal energy and/or kinetic energy of a vehicle. At least one fluid tube is coupled with a body portion of the vehicle. At least a portion of the at least one fluid tube is positioned proximal to the vehicle's roof, the trunk and/or hood. The at least one fluid tube contains a fluid configured to expand in response to receiving light radiant energy or thermal energy. At least one fluid turbine is coupled with the at least one fluid tube and has blades configured to be rotated by the fluid. A generator converts kinetic energy from the rotation of the blades of the at least one fluid turbine to electrical energy stored in the battery. Valves and/or pumps may control the fluid flow for enhancing generation of electrical energy using light radiant energy, thermal energy and/or kinetic energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventor: Geoffrey Gaither
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Patent number: 10017054Abstract: An electric wheel, a remote controller, a vehicle using the electric wheel, and a method for driving a vehicle are disclosed. The electric wheel include a fixed wheel hub, a rotary wheel hub, a tire, a driving motor, and a battery and control unit. The fixed wheel hub may be connected with a vehicle shaft. The rotary wheel hub is mounted on the fixed wheel hub, with an accommodating cavity defined therebetween. The tire is attached around the rotary wheel hub. The driving motor is received in the accommodating cavity and configured to drive the rotary wheel hub. The battery and control unit is received in the accommodating cavity and configured to supply power to the driving motor and control operation of the driving motor. The battery and control unit comprising an embedded power supply to supply the power to the driving motor.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Shenzhen Geniusmart Technologies Co. LtdInventor: Jun Wu
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Patent number: 10017055Abstract: A method of controlling an air conditioner includes determining whether or not a signal for operating the air conditioner is input to a controller. When it is determined that the signal for operating the air conditioner is input to the controller, determining whether or not conditions for variably controlling the air conditioner are satisfied. When it is determined that the conditions are satisfied, an energy flow mode is checked on the basis of an energy flow between a battery, a motor, an engine, and electric components. The air conditioner is controlled in a mode corresponding to the checked energy flow mode.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Won Young Jeong
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Patent number: 10017056Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for electric vehicles with removable homopolar generators for increased driving distances. In one embodiment, an example electric vehicle may include at least one drive motor configured to impart motion to one or more wheels of the electric vehicle, a plurality of rechargeable batteries configured to power the at least one drive motor, and a homopolar generator positioned within the electric vehicle and electrically coupled to the plurality of rechargeable batteries. The homopolar generator may be configured to generate current to charge the plurality of rechargeable batteries. The electric vehicle may include one or more solid state relays electrically coupled between the plurality of rechargeable batteries, and a controller configured to manage charging of the plurality of rechargeable batteries.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: PREMERGY, INC.Inventor: Richard Edward Botts
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Patent number: 10017057Abstract: A dual battery charging and discharging system controls the configuration of multiple batteries arranged in multiple battery banks. The batteries within each bank are connected in series when powering an electrical load, such as a service motor, and are connected in parallel when charging. A microprocessor monitors the voltage levels of the batteries in each bank and controls relays to switch the electrical load over to a charged battery bank when the voltage level of the discharging battery bank drops below a minimum run threshold. The microprocessor also monitors the voltage levels of the charging battery bank and controls relays to cease charging when the voltage level rises above a minimum charge threshold. The batteries are charged by an alternator driven by a drive motor through a gear reduction system.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Larry Nelson
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Patent number: 10017058Abstract: When ignition-on operation is made in first electric power supply processing during external charging, and a post-operation electric energy is not larger than a predetermined electric energy that is an electric energy consumption of a low-voltage device after the ignition-on operation, an automobile continues the first electric power supply processing. In the first electric power supply processing, from between a first DC/DC converter and a second DC/DC converter, only the second DC/DC converter is selected to run to supply electric power to a low-voltage-system electric power line. When the post-operation electric energy exceeds the predetermined electric energy, the automobile makes a switch to second electric power supply processing in which only the first DC/DC converter is selected to run from between the first DC/DC converter and the second DC/DC converter to supply electric power to the low-voltage-system electric power line.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshihiro Nomura
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Patent number: 10017059Abstract: A vehicle includes a motor, a high voltage battery, a charger; an accessory; a first DC/DC converter, a second DC/DC converter, and an electronic control unit configured to: end the external charging, when a power storage ratio of the high voltage battery reaches a target ratio or when charged electric power of the high voltage battery becomes equal to or less than predetermined electric power before the power storage ratio of the high voltage battery reaches the target ratio, while external charging for charging the high voltage battery with the charger using electric power from the external power supply is being performed; and limit a drive of the accessory compared to when the electric power from the external power supply is greater than the predetermined electric power, when the electric power from the external power supply is equal to or less than predetermined electric power.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Fumiyoshi Kuribara, Shigetaka Asano
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Patent number: 10017060Abstract: An apparatus includes a shell having multiple ducts that define multiple flow passages through the shell. The apparatus also includes a core disposed within the shell and including one or more rechargeable power supplies. The apparatus further includes multiple drivers configured to cause water to flow through the ducts in order to maneuver the apparatus toward a host device. In addition, the apparatus includes at least one interface on the shell, where the at least one interface is configured to receive power from the one or more rechargeable power supplies and provide the power to the host device. The apparatus may be configured to dock with the host device and to be transported by and supply the power to the host device as the host device travels through a body of water.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Gregory W. Heinen, Marcos M. Sastre Cördova
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Patent number: 10017061Abstract: An exemplary electrified vehicle assembly includes a charging system having a luminescent portion. The charging system is configured to electrically couple together a charging station and an electrified vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Juan Lopez, Sriram Jala, John Paul Gibeau, Kevin Layden, Susan Curry
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Patent number: 10017062Abstract: The invention relates to an electric charging device, to a charging system, to a method for charging a battery of a vehicle, and to an electric connection device of a vehicle for charging a battery of the vehicle. The electric charging device comprises the following: a lifting device (11) to which a charging head (12) is coupled, wherein the charging head (12) has a first plurality of first electric contacts (14) on a first surface (13) of the charging head (12), at least some of said contacts being connectable to an energy source in order to charge the battery; and an actuator (16) by means of which the lifting device (11) can be actuated such that the charging head (12) can be at least partly moved in a first direction (R1) that is substantially perpendicular to the first surface (13).Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Annika Carolin Kufner, Ahmet Kilic, Falco Sengebusch
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Patent number: 10017063Abstract: An electrical distributor arrangement, in particular for electrically driven motor vehicles, having a housing which has two electrical terminals which are connectable in each case to an external electrical energy source, a multiplicity of through lines which are connected at their ends in each case to one of the terminals, and a multiplicity of electrical attachment lines which are led into the housing for the purposes of electrically contacting a multiplicity of electrical consumers with the through lines, wherein the through lines are in the form of rigid current rails, and wherein the attachment lines are fixedly connected in each case to one of the current rails.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Sascha Martens, Timo Wetzel
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Patent number: 10017064Abstract: An electrical circuit for electric vehicle supply equipment including a pilot control signal unit structured to generate a pilot control signal having a state including one of a high state and a low state, a pilot control signal isolation unit structured to generate an isolated pilot control signal that is isolated from the power lines of the electric vehicle supply equipment and is based on the state of the pilot control signal, and an amplification unit structured to generate a pilot signal based on the state of the pilot control signal. The amplification unit is structured to receive the isolated pilot control signal and the isolated voltage and to use the isolated pilot control signal and the isolated voltage to generate the pilot signal, and the pilot signal is isolated from the power lines of the electric vehicle supply equipment.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LIMITEDInventors: Andrew Yang, Tom Xiong, Kevin Zhong, Alex Zhuang, Martin Chen
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Patent number: 10017065Abstract: A power reception coil of a power reception unit is configured to receive, in a contactless manner, the electric power output from a power transmission coil of a power transmission unit. A rectifying circuit includes a rectifier and a capacitor provided on an output side of the rectifier, and rectifies the electric power received by the power reception coil. A voltage sensor is provided on an output side of the rectifying circuit. A vehicle ECU detects rising of a voltage detected by the voltage sensor, and detects a distance between the coils based on a movement distance of a vehicle from a reference distance indicative of the distance between the coils at which the rising of voltage occurs, the reference distance is prepared in advance.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Satoshi Taniguchi
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Patent number: 10017066Abstract: The invention relates to a method for connecting/disconnecting an electric vehicle to/from a charging terminal, which includes at least one sensor arranged to detect the state of at least one element of said charging terminal, said method including at least one iteration of the following steps: measuring at least one value of at least one parameter by said sensor; comparing the value of said parameter with at least one predetermined value; and transmitting at least one datum, referred to as a notification datum, relating to said connection/disconnection. The invention also relates to a system for connecting/disconnecting an electric vehicle to/from a charging terminal, as well as to a charging terminal implemented in such a method and in such a system.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2012Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: BluecarsharingInventors: Clément Lambrinos, Augustin Aymeric, Raphaël Barrois, Julien Rouyer, Sandrine Ressayre, Ruben Rodrigues
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Patent number: 10017067Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for ensuring functional reliability of components (5), which participate in a charging operation, of the electromobility technology of an actuator (4) which is formed in particular as an electric vehicle or electric charging station, in connection with the charging operation or during a test, wherein at least one of the participating components (5) comprises a module (6) for the implementation of security functions in which a first assigned certificate of a technical test station (3) concerning a means for carrying out a self-diagnosis of the component (5) and a second assigned certificate (11) of a manufacturer (2) are stored, characterized by the following steps to be carried out in the participating components (5): (1a) activating a self-diagnosis, (1b) providing a result of the self-diagnosis of the component (5) with a signature by means of the second assigned certificate (11) of the manufacturer (2), (1c) transmitting to the technical test station (3) the resultType: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAT DORTMUNDInventors: Sven Gröning, Jens Schmutzler, Christian Wietfeld
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Patent number: 10017068Abstract: A method for controlling the charging of multiple electric vehicles operating in a geographic area may include inputting a tariff schedule into a control system. The tariff schedule may identify the cost of energy at different times in the geographic area. The method may also include receiving data from the multiple electric vehicles. The data may include at least the state of charge of the vehicle. The method may further include sending instructions to at least one vehicle of the multiple electric vehicles. The instructions may include directives on charging based at least on the tariff schedule and the received data.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Proterra Inc.Inventors: Seamus McGrath, Reuben Sarkar
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Patent number: 10017069Abstract: A method for controlling an output of a battery includes measuring a state of charge (SOC) or a resistance of the battery of a vehicle, comparing a deterioration level of the battery with a set deterioration level, and controlling a temperature of the battery, an average output of the battery, and a load mode of the battery when the deterioration level of the battery is larger than the set deterioration level.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Do Kyoung Lim, Jae Hoon Choi
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Patent number: 10017070Abstract: A method for automatically detecting a replacement of a control unit in a battery management system including a battery control unit includes allocating a one-way function to each control unit. The one-way function uses x and y to output z. The input y is a sensor_ID that uniquely identifies the control unit concerned. The method further includes providing a random number generated by the battery control unit to the first control unit at every system start-up as input x. The result z from the first control unit is used as the input x for the subsequent one-way function of the subsequent, second control unit until the nth control unit. The result z of the nth control unit is transmitted to the battery control unit. The method further includes generating a final ID and comparing the final ID with the result z of the nth control unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignees: Robert Bosch GmbH, Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventor: Christoph Brochhaus
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Patent number: 10017071Abstract: An electrical system includes a voltage bus, battery pack, power inverter module (PIM), electric machine, first contactor, and controller. The PIM is connected to the battery pack and has a capacitor, voltage sensor, and semiconductor switches. The electric machine having phase legs with a corresponding phase winding and resistive path. The first contactor connects the PIM to a positive rail of the bus. The controller opens the first contactor in response to a power-off event, commands a discharge of the capacitor through the resistive paths, diagnoses a state of health (SOH) of the first contactor using a first threshold decay rate of the capacitor output voltage upon opening the first contactor, and executes a control action with respect to the electrical system using the diagnosed SOH. The three possible SOH are unhealthy/hard-welded contactor, unhealthy/soft-welded contactor, and healthy/normally-functioning contactor condition. A vehicle and method are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Andrew J. Namou, Syed M. Kadry, Ahmad Albanna, Mohammad N. Anwar, David J. Mifsud
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Patent number: 10017072Abstract: An electrical contact assembly includes a first electrical contact having a first mating element, and a second electrical contact having a second mating element. The first and second electrical contacts are configured to mate together at the first and second mating elements such that the first and second mating elements engage each other at a contact interface. A distribution of contact pressure across the contact interface at least partially coincides with a distribution of electrical current flow across the contact interface.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignees: Roberts Bosch GmbH, Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventor: Gergely Galamb
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Patent number: 10017073Abstract: A vehicle power module assembly is provided. The assembly may include a first frame, a second frame, and power stages. The first frame may define a first pair of coolant cavities. The second frame may define a second pair of coolant cavities in communication with the first pair of cavities to define a serial coolant path. Each of the frames may house one of the power stages disposed between the respective pairs of cavities such that coolant flowing through the cavities is in thermal communication with the power stages. The assembly may further include a pair of endplates, one of which defines a channel to divert coolant from a last of the pair of coolant cavities to the outlet cutouts in substantial registration with one another. Each of the first frame and second frame may further define a pass-through fluidly connecting the pair of coolant cavities.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Guangyin Lei, Michael W. Degner, Edward Chan-Jiun Jih
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Patent number: 10017074Abstract: The system (1) for piloting an electric motor in electric motorcycles or the like is operatively connectable to a control inverter (I) of an electric motor (E) of an electric motorcycle (M) and to a control device (C) of the acceleration of the electric motorcycle (M) and comprises dynamic generation means (10) of a piloting signal (TOUT) of the inverter (I) according to a control signal (G) coming from the control device (C) and to at least a maximum deliverable/absorbable current value (IMAX, RIMAX) by an electric battery (B) of the electric motorcycle (M).Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Energica Motor Company S.p.A.Inventors: Giovanni Gherardi, Giampiero Testoni, Simone Martinelli, Eleonora Montanari
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Patent number: 10017075Abstract: A control device for an electric vehicle improving the responsiveness of a motor and leading to improvement in occupant's riding comfort during power running and regenerative control of the motor. A motor control module includes: a current PI control section to perform PI feedback control to eliminate a deviation relative to a command current value generated in an inverter, in response to a torque command from an ECU; PI control gain adjustment tables, for power running and regenerative control, in which a PI control gain used when the current PI control section performs the PI feedback control is set in accordance with a running state; and a control gain adjustment section to adjust the PI control gain according to the PI control gain adjustment table such that a PI control gain corresponding to the running state is used.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: NTN CORPORATIONInventor: Guodong Li
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Patent number: 10017076Abstract: A motor control apparatus for a vehicle includes a data detector detecting driving data and a vehicle controller controlling a drive motor according to the driving data. The vehicle controller includes an acceleration generator determining a request torque and a request speed using the driving data and generating a request acceleration using the request torque and the request speed; a driving point determinator selecting an inductance control current map or a motor efficiency control current map according to the request acceleration and determining a current driving point according to the request torque and the request speed using the selected current map; and a motor controller controlling the drive motor using the current driving point.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANYInventors: SangHwa Do, Sangjin Park, Young Jin Seo, Kyoungbum Kim
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Patent number: 10017077Abstract: This support (36), as a profile in an electrically insulating material, comprises a substantially planar upper surface (50), provided with a longitudinal flute (60) intended for receiving a track segment, and a longitudinal groove (70) intended for receiving a low voltage electric power supply cable; and a lower surface (52) intended to bear upon a base for maintaining the support in the roadway. It is characterized in that the lower surface (52) is curved, preferably V-shaped, so that the support is concave so as to be at least transversely maintained in a recess with a mating shape, made in the base.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: ALSTOM TRANSPORT TECHNOLOGIESInventor: Patrick Duprat
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Patent number: 10017078Abstract: The specification and drawings present a new apparatus and method for providing an accurate and convenient weighing of a vehicle occupant using a relocatable/replaceable multi-purpose on-board vehicle occupant weighing (REMBOW) methodology including a REMBOW pad mounted on a REMBOW seat frame in a vehicle to improve safe engagement of an air bag as well as raising and monitoring possible health related issues of the vehicle occupant(s). The occupant weighing can be performed, using, as a non-limiting example, a kemoder elimination of a separate occupant's feet weighing (KEF) technology, where kemoder is a key element for moderating of an accuracy and convenience of an occupant weighing (i.e., a weighing moderator) and for starting a measuring process.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Yefim G Kriger
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Patent number: 10017079Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a body, a drive motor, at least one seat with a retaining structure, a first connecting element, a second connecting element, and at least one fastening device with which the seat is attached to the body. The first connecting element is used to attach the fastening device to the retaining structure in a positive and/or non-positive connecting manner. The second connecting element is used to attach the fastening device to the body in a positive and/or non-positive manner.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Andrzej Pleskot
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Patent number: 10017080Abstract: A vehicle seating assembly includes a seat having first and second retainers. A seatback includes a lower cross-member extending between the first and second retainers. An aperture is located in the lower cross-member. A single torsion bar extends between the first and second retainers and is operably coupled therewith. The torsion bar includes an intermediate portion having first and second engagement portions, which are insertably engaged with the aperture. First and second linear portions extend between the first retainer and the first engagement portion and the second retainer and the second engagement portion, respectively. First and second distal ends are configured to engage the first and second retainers, respectively, which induces a torsional resistance in the torsion bar when the seatback is displaced from a zero torsion position. The torsion bar is at the zero torsion position when the seatback is displaced rotationally forward from a design position.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Alan George Dry
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Patent number: 10017081Abstract: Vehicle vibration device for a vehicle seat or a vehicle cabin comprising a lower part and an upper part mounted resiliently with respect to the lower part by means of a damping device, the upper part being mounted suspended on the lower part by means of at least one pivot mounting, the at least one first pivot mounting comprising at least one first lever, the first end of which is attached to the lower part by means of a first pivot axis and the second end of which is attached to the upper part by means of a second pivot axis, the second end being positioned below the first end in a vertical direction, at least one dimension of the upper part and/or at least one dimension of the lower part being variable by means of an adjustment device so as to vary the position of the first lever.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GRAMMER AGInventors: Erwin Haller, Jens Kolb
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Patent number: 10017082Abstract: Described herein is a shock mitigation apparatus. The shock mitigation apparatus may be utilized in a marine environment, able to absorb shocks transmitted to a seat system from a structure to which the seat is affixed. The shock mitigation apparatus includes at least one leaf spring wherein the leaf spring is cantilevered at one end and pivoted at a distal end thereof, and wherein the pivoted end is free to articulate upon flexure of the leaf spring.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Francis Paul Zwaan
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Patent number: 10017083Abstract: An article of vehicle furniture includes one or more adaptive support elements. Each of the adaptive support elements includes a carbon fiber layer operable between support and configurable conditions and a heating element in thermal communication with the carbon fiber layer. The heating element is configured to heat the carbon fiber layer from the support condition to the configurable condition. Each of the adaptive support elements further includes a thermal barrier layer, wherein the heating element is disposed between the thermal barrier layer and the carbon fiber layer.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Eunhee Jo, Sam James, Marcus Hoggarth
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Patent number: 10017084Abstract: A headrest arrangement on a motor vehicle the head rest assembly includes a headrest, a back rest, and at least a guide rod. The guide rod connects the back rest with the headrest. The headrest is adjustable between a first locking position and at least a second lock position. The headrest arrangement can occupy an adjustment and a lock mode while in lock mode the head rest in a lock position is locked and the headrest from the first to the at least second locking position is adjustable in the adjustment mode. The backrest includes a locking facility with a lock body to lock the headrest in the lock position.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Matthias Maass, Daniel Assefa
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Patent number: 10017085Abstract: An adjustment unit, for a vehicle seat, is provided for adjusting a position and/or inclination of a component of the vehicle seat. The adjustment unit has a handling element, which is provided in a first direction for applying a first adjustment movement of the component, and in a second direction for applying a second adjustment movement of the component. The adjustment unit is embodied in such a way that the first adjustment movement permits more rapid adjustment of the component than the second adjustment movement.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2013Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: JOHNSON CONTROLS GMBHInventor: Ingo Kienke
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Patent number: 10017086Abstract: The present invention is a removable storage system for use in a vehicle which allows a storage cart to be rolled into and out of the vehicle and secured within the vehicle. The storage system includes a support assembly adapted to be mounted within a vehicle. The support system has at least one horizontal member extending along the longitudinal side of the vehicle. The movable cart has at least one surface for supporting items, and a locking mechanism for locking the cart to the support system. The horizontal member includes at least one retention member to resist movement of the moveable cart in the longitudinal direction. The locking mechanism engages the horizontal member to lock the cart to the horizontal member to resist movement of the moveable cart in the lateral direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ranger DesignInventor: Ilko Paunov
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Patent number: 10017087Abstract: A vehicle seating assembly includes a vehicle desk operably coupled to a rear portion of a seatback. The vehicle desk is movable between at least a stowed position and a use position. A hinge assembly includes a finger-grip rotator knob assembly and a moveable element, such as a working surface or desk. The moveable element is operably coupled to, and rotatable with, the finger-grip rotator knob assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Alan George Dry, Marcos Silva Kondrad
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Patent number: 10017088Abstract: The present disclosure provides a footrest including: a bracket that has a plurality of wings and that is coupled to a back of a seat, the plurality of wings spaced apart at a predetermined distance from each other and extending rearward; an actuating unit to rotate a rotary shaft hingedly coupled to the plurality of wings; and a panel that is coupled to the rotary shaft and is folded or unfolded toward or away from a seatback when the rotary shaft is rotated.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: HYUNDAI DYMOS INCORPORATEDInventors: Sung Chol An, Jin Ho Seo, Jun Kyu Kim, Chan Uk Park, Myeong Sub Kim, Yun Ho Kim, Doug Hwan Kim
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Patent number: 10017089Abstract: Device for holding and securing Electronic Cigarettes within a motor vehicle comprising a box-like structure having side panels, a rear panel, and a bottom panel, accessible from the top and the front. The device contains a plurality of upper and lower flexible constructs within the interior of the device acting as securing means to secure either cylindrical or box-type Electronic Cigarettes of varying dimensions. The device holds and secures, alternately, cylindrical or box-type Electronic Cigarettes, in the same space within the holder, as opposed to having separate compartments for each type of Electronic Cigarette. The invention also introduces a multi-bracket vehicle door panel mounting system where different size brackets are employed to conform to vehicle door panels of varying depths.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: Michael W Wallace, Young Ward
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Patent number: 10017090Abstract: A utility vehicle includes a plurality of ground-engaging members, a frame, a powertrain assembly, a front suspension assembly, and a rear suspension assembly. A cargo bed may be supported by the frame at the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle also includes an operator seat and at least one passenger seat positioned within an operator area. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes doors to enclose the operator area.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: Steven R. Franker, Aaron J. Nysse
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Patent number: 10017091Abstract: A self-propelled trailer is provided and includes a frame, an extension device, and a storage bin. The extension device includes a first extension section with a trailing end rotatably connected to the frame and an extendable second extension section rotatably connected to a leading end of the first extension section. The storage bin is secured to the extension device.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: New Heights LLCInventor: Aaron Jay Beiler
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Patent number: 10017092Abstract: Disclosed is an adjustable-length, variable-tracked ramp loading system attachable to the bed of a pickup truck, utility truck, or a stationary loading dock. The ramp loading system serves to assist with the loading of assorted types of cargo, including wheeled vehicles, construction equipment, supplies, materials, and other objects of dimensions compatible with the size of the truck bed or dock. The system is constructed and operates with a minimum of two extendable ramps. Each ramp is horizontally stowed or nestled within an individual bridge, which bridge is further housed inside a bedrunner. Each bedrunner is attached to the bed/floor of the truck or loading dock. The ramps may be extended and angularly lowered at varying distances from the rear of the truck bed or dock.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: Robert M Chastain, Jr., Robert M Chastain, Sr.
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Patent number: 10017093Abstract: A cargo lift for receipt by a receiver hitch according to one embodiment of the invention comprises a frame, a platform, a scissor lift mechanism, an actuator, a pair of pivot mechanisms, a pair of sliding guide members, a probe connector, and a cross bar. The scissor lift mechanism is positioned between the frame and the platform and is provided with the actuator. The pair of pivot mechanisms raises and lower the frame between ground level and receiver hitch level while maintaining the platform in a horizontal position. The pair of sliding guide members extends alongside the frame and attaches the frame to the pivot mechanisms. The probe connector is for a receiver hitch for carrying the cargo lift by a vehicle. The cross-bar is for attaching the pair of pivot mechanisms to the probe connector.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: Michael Murphy, Eric LeBlanc, Linda Jacoby Murphy
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Patent number: 10017094Abstract: A self-propelled flat-bed trolley is provided which includes a motor for locomotion and including a load-bearing platform and an articulated crane with a telescopic arm adapted to load and unload articles to and from the platform. The crane is maneuverable to locate the center-of-mass of the articles within a base of support for the trolley, with the trolley further including a controller for controlling the motor and articulated crane.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: HOOK-UP SOLUTIONS LIMITEDInventor: Tim Blanchard
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Patent number: 10017095Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile spool support system for transporting spools of a flexible elongate load such as cable or tubing on a transport vehicle. In some forms the system includes one or more lift arms for raising and lowering a spool rod. These arms are pivotally attached to a lift base that is utilized for supporting loads placed on the support system. A spool rod is utilized for supporting a spool containing the flexible elongate load on the spool and is seated on the lift arms. A mount interface is utilized for securing the system to the front or rear end of a transport vehicle. Deployable jacks are available in some forms to support the system against the ground.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: Jason Charles Keast, James Charles DeStefano, Jr.
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Patent number: 10017096Abstract: A boat hauler system which provides a folding boat cradling structure capable of being installed within a pickup truck bed. The boat hauler system may be used to transport, launch, and retrieve a small boat from a body of water without employing a boat trailer. The boat hauler system also includes an electric winch and support legs.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: Bruce W. Helmick, Karen F. Helmick
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Patent number: 10017097Abstract: A flowable-material transfer station includes a mobile frame and a conveyor coupled thereto. A hopper mounted on the mobile frame has a side wall with an opening. A chute's loading end is rigidly coupled to the hopper at the side wall opening thereof wherein the chute is in fluid communication with the hopper via the opening. The hopper is hingedly coupled to the mobile frame and the chute's dispensing end is positioned over a first end of the conveyor. A lift mechanism is provided to move the hopper between a lowered position and a raised position. The chute's dispensing end is above the chute's loading end when the hopper is in its lowered position, and is below the chute's loading end when the hopper is in its raised position.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: OZINGA READY MIX CONCRETE, INC.Inventor: Justin A. Ozinga
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Patent number: 10017098Abstract: A recreational vehicle (RV) includes a slide-out compartment that increases a size of an interior living space. The slide-out compartment extends from and retracts into a rear side of the RV. The slide-out compartment includes a plurality of panels coupled to a rear double door structure. The plurality of panels configured to extend from the RV in an open state and recede into the RV in a closed state. The double door structure is configured to recess into a rear door jamb of the RV and form a weather seal with the rear door jamb when the slide-out compartment is in a closed state and detach from the door jamb when the when the slide-out compartment is not in a closed state.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Delphini, LLCInventor: David Ronsen
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Patent number: 10017099Abstract: A tonneau cover is provided. That tonneau cover includes a panel, a first set of folding legs carried on the panel and a second set of folding legs carried on the panel. The first set of folding legs have a first length L1 while the second set of folding legs have a second length L2 where L1>L2. Depending upon which set of folding legs is deployed, the panel may be converted into a table or a bench as desired.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Benjamin Yilma, Pattrick Loew