Patents Issued in August 16, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180229772
    Abstract: A vehicle that includes seat cross-members arranged opposite each other on both sides of a center tunnel defining a space, a battery device as an energy accumulator for an electric drive motor of the vehicle, the battery device including a battery housing which at least partially fills the space in the center tunnel, and a load path optimization component arranged in the battery housing at the space of the center tunnel, to transmit forces laterally from one seat cross-member to the other seat cross-member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Manuel ERLACHER, Reinhard HOERMANN, Franz PLANKA, Harald ZACHNEGGER
  • Publication number: 20180229773
    Abstract: A self-supporting underframe for a vehicle, the vehicle, and a production method thereof. The underframe has two elongate monocoques arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other and at least 50% closed on at least four sides, wherein the monocoques each have a single-part, trough-like element having at least one lower base and two side walls extending upwards from the base. At least one cover element closes the trough-like elements over at least 50% of the longitudinal extent of the particular trough-like element. The at least one cover element of each of the two monocoques in each case includes at least one cross-strut cover element, and the cross-strut cover elements of the two monocoques are designed as a common, single-part cross-strut cover element spanning an intermediate space located between the trough-like elements of the monocoques. The cover elements are fixedly connected to the side walls of the monocoques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Carbon Truck & Trailer GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Jürgen LANGE, Ria KAISER, Gerret KALKOFFEN
  • Publication number: 20180229774
    Abstract: A three-wheeled automobile is described herein. The automobile may include a unibody frame, a flexible engine cowling, and a fastener. The unibody frame may include an exposed unibody panel and/or a removable-panel securing fixture disposed adjacent to the exposed unibody panel. The engine cowling may be secured to the securing fixture. The fastener may pass through the engine cowling panel and may be affixed to the securing fixture, thereby securing the engine cowling panel to the unibody frame. The engine cowling panel may pass over the securing fixture and/or behind the unibody panel. The engine cowling panel may be pressed against the unibody panel outwards from the automobile by a bending force in the engine cowling panel such that the exposed unibody panel may prevent bowing of an outside edge of the engine cowling panel directly adjacent to the unibody panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Stephen R. Hall, Christopher Johnson, Jason Simpson, Jedediah Knight
  • Publication number: 20180229775
    Abstract: A system that mounts a motor vehicle hood on a body of the vehicle includes a guide element to slidably guide the hood relative to the body in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle and a locking element to lock the hood to immobilize the hood relative to the body in a closed position, in which it seals off an engine compartment. The locking element assumes an activated state as a result of a sliding movement of the hood relative to the body in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a first direction. The guide element includes a self-centering element to self-center the hood relative to the body in a direction transverse to the vehicle while the hood slides in the first direction, and ensures that the closed position of the hood is a predetermined position in the transverse direction and is constant relative to the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Silvino DO NASCIMENTO, Philippe PERREUX, Patrick PEROT
  • Publication number: 20180229776
    Abstract: An underbody cover assembly includes an upper member for receiving and housing a component that includes a first flange extending around a circumference of the upper member defining a component space. The component is disposable in the component space. The upper member also includes at least one mounting location having a hole for receiving a fastener there through for mounting the upper member to a body member. The underbody cover assembly also includes a lower member connected to the upper member for covering an air outlet that includes a U-shaped second flange extending inwardly around a circumference of the lower member, a screen with a plurality of apertures for blocking debris from entering the air outlet, and a seal disposed on a distal edge of the second flange for providing a seal between the lower member and the body member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Walter Z. CHIN
  • Publication number: 20180229777
    Abstract: A floor pan assembly is disclosed that includes a side sill extending in a longitudinal direction that has a lower portion and a top surface. The floor pan may include a weld flange having a height H1 that is welded to the lower portion along a full length of the floor pan and an extended weld flange having a height H2 that is higher than H1 and welded to the top surface of the side sill along a limited length of the floor pan. The floor pan may also include a corrugated area integrally provided in the floor pan that includes a plurality of furrows and ridges that extend obliquely relative to the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Herbert YANG, Sean Timothy RYAN, John Michael MCGUCKIN, Pratyaksh KAMATH, Praveenmanickam RENGANATHAN
  • Publication number: 20180229778
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a first metallic body panel, second metallic body panel, and spacer. The first metallic body panel is secured to the second metallic body panel. The second metallic body panel is comprised of a dissimilar metal relative to the first metallic body panel. The spacer has a concave peripheral surface. The spacer is disposed between and secured to both the first and second metallic body panels such that the concave peripheral surface is exposed via a gap between the first and second metallic body panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Niamh HOSKING, Kerrie Nikaido HOLGUIN
  • Publication number: 20180229779
    Abstract: A powered hinge assembly includes a first gate hinge feature, a drive unit connected to the first gate hinge feature and a controller configured to displace the first gate hinge feature to an installation position upon connection to a power source. A powered tailgate assembly, incorporating the powered hinge assembly, and a method of installing a tailgate are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Rafic Jergess, Spencer Monroe Dinkins, III, Adrian Nania
  • Publication number: 20180229780
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide airflow apparatus for a vehicle comprising: an airflow duct extending rearwardly from a front region of said vehicle, the airflow duct having an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet; a cooling duct, separate from the airflow duct, the cooling duct having a cooling inlet and a cooling outlet, wherein the airflow outlet is in proximity to the cooling outlet such that, in use, airflow through said airflow outlet influences airflow through said cooling outlet, the cooling outlet and/or the airflow outlet is in a bonnet of the vehicle and, in use, airflow exits the airflow outlet substantially parallel said bonnet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher THOMPSON, Adrian GAYLARD
  • Publication number: 20180229781
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle spoiler including a front spoiler provided on a vehicle lower side of a front bumper, an air bag, which is connected with a bottom part of the front bumper and the front spoiler, causes the front spoiler to be in a deployed state by expanding, and causes the front spoiler to be in a stored state by contracting, and a relief valve that reduces inner pressure of the air bag when inner pressure of the air bag increases due to interference of an obstacle on a road with the front spoiler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Satoshi TAKATO, Tatsuya SHIMIZU
  • Publication number: 20180229782
    Abstract: An aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus is adaptable for use with vehicles having downstream surfaces that are not streamlined. The apparatus consists of a series of nesting shapes and/or frameworks that extend rearward for use in a drag reducing configuration and collapse for use in a space saving configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas Scott Breidenbach
  • Publication number: 20180229783
    Abstract: A track assembly is to be mounted on a drive axle of a vehicle. The track assembly has a frame, at least one leading idler wheel mounted to the front of the frame for rotation about a transverse leading idler wheel axis, at least one trailing idler wheel mounted to the rear of the frame for rotation about a traverse trailing idler wheel axis parallel to the leading idler wheel axis, a single drive wheel assembly, and at least two slide rails. The slide rails have corresponding forward-facing portions, central portions, and rearward-facing portions. The forward-facing portions project from the front ends of the central portions by a projection that is greater than a length of the central portions. A vehicle having the track assembly is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Louis-Frederic MARCHILDON, Patrick L'HERAULT
  • Publication number: 20180229784
    Abstract: A track assembly to be mounted on a vehicle. The track assembly has a frame, a drive wheel, and front and rear idler wheel assemblies rotationally mounted to the frame. A track is mounted around the front and rear idler wheel assemblies, and the drive wheel. The track has traction lugs distributed along an outer surface thereof. The frame has an effective frame length equal to a horizontal distance between a foremost point on the outer surface of the track and the rear idler wheel assembly axis. The effective frame length is between 48 and 60 inches. The frame has an effective frame height equal to a vertical distance between the drive wheel axis and a point on the outer surface of the track, the point being positioned directly below the drive wheel axis. The effective frame height is between 17 and 20 inches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Louis-Frederic MARCHILDON, Patrick L'HERAULT
  • Publication number: 20180229785
    Abstract: A crawler track includes a link and is driven in a direction of travel by a sprocket having a plurality of teeth. The link includes a pad, a first grouser, and a second grouser. The pad defines a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end along the direction of travel. The pad defines at least one opening extending through the pad between the first surface and the second surface, and the opening is operable to receive a sprocket tooth. The first grouser is positioned on the first surface proximate the first end of the pad, while the second grouser is positioned on the first surface proximate the second end of the pad. The first grouser and the second grouser extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel of the track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Michael L. O'Neill
  • Publication number: 20180229786
    Abstract: An electrical harness system for communicatively coupling a first bus node to a bus controller includes a data bus including a first cable segment and a first data line and a second data line, the first and second data lines extending in parallel along a length of the first cable segment and being electrically coupled together at a first end of the data bus, the first bus node being connected to the first data line and not to the second data line, and first and second termination impedances electrically coupled to the first and second data lines at a second end of the data bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Edward Weaver, Adam Bean, Douglas Chambers
  • Publication number: 20180229787
    Abstract: A method for producing a motor vehicle that includes producing and painting a bodyshell having a platform composed of metal and a vehicle body composed of metal which is configured for placement on the platform, producing and painting a main floor composed of metal separately from a remainder of the bodyshell, and attaching the main floor to the previously painted platform and/or the previously painted vehicle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Sabine HARMUSZ, Bernhard HOFER, Wolfgang PASSEGGER
  • Publication number: 20180229788
    Abstract: A method for producing a motor vehicle having a body shell that includes a platform composed of metal and a vehicle body composed of metal which is fitted on the platform. The method includes producing, separately from a remainder of the body shell, a main floor module that includes a main floor of the body shell and at least one drive-specific component, and attaching the main floor module to an already dip-coated platform and/or to an already dip-coated vehicle body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Manuel ERLACHER, Reinhard HOERMANN, Franz PLANKA, Harald ZACHNEGGER
  • Publication number: 20180229789
    Abstract: A stabilization apparatus for a two-wheeled vehicle includes a rotationally mounted gyroscope and a drive unit, as well as a rotational-direction reversal unit disposed between the drive unit and the gyroscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Markus Henzler, Matthias Klews
  • Publication number: 20180229790
    Abstract: A saddle adjustment assembly comprising an adjustable height saddle post, the adjustable height saddle post comprising a first support and a second support, the second support configured to slidably move relative to the first support between at least a raised position and a lowered position, the first support configured to attach to a bicycle frame; a saddle angle adjustment mechanism coupled to the second support, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprising a rotatably coupled saddle support configured to couple to a bicycle saddle; wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to enable rotation of the saddle support relative to the second support as a result of the first support moving relative to the second support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Michael A. McAndrews, Ron Powers, Brandon D. Sloan, Jeffrey Keith Bowers, Ian Thomas McPherson
  • Publication number: 20180229791
    Abstract: In a conveyance seat, a linear member can be adequately hooked on a bottom wall and a state that the linear member is hooked on the bottom wall is adequately maintained. A bottom plate is provided with a protruding part on which a suspension strap is hooked when suspending a skin material, and a position variable part capable of changing a relative position to the protruding part. The position variable part can move between a first position where it contacts or engages the protruding part and a second position where it is disengaged from the protruding part. In a state that the relative position of the position variable part with respect to the protruding part is in the first position, at least a part of the position variable part projects further outward than a side surface of the protruding part in a direction intersecting the protruding direction of the protruding part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Kenji SUGIYAMA, Katsumi KISHIDA
  • Publication number: 20180229792
    Abstract: A fastening locking system for containers on an attachment device having attachment points includes correspond receiving elements arranged on a container and detachably fasten the container to the carrier in a defined position by means of at least one lower guide element attached on the rear side of the container and by means of two upper receiving elements attached to the rear side of container, wherein the two receiving elements attached in the upper region to the rear side of the container are arranged along an arc path and each have a continuous guide groove, following the arc path, and include a projection for receiving a mushroom-shaped attachment means, which is arranged on the luggage carrier, wherein each receiving element is equipped with a spring-loaded tilting lever mounted for rotation about an axis and one end of each tilting lever extends in the direction of the top edge of the bag or container and the other beveled end oriented in one direction extends into the guide groove with the projection
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: ORTLIEB SPORTARTIKEL GMBH
    Inventor: Günter BOAS
  • Publication number: 20180229793
    Abstract: A crank arm comprising a crank arm receiving portion, a sprocket, a sprocket guard comprising a sprocket guard receiving portion, a nut engagable with a bolt fixing the sprocket to the crank arm receiving portion, and a third fastener engaging the sprocket guard receiving portion through the bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Cody, Chris Vasiliotis
  • Publication number: 20180229794
    Abstract: A universal protector for a bicycle element made up of a shell for protecting the element and a fastener for fastening the shell to the element in which the shell includes a size adapting and adjusting structure to accommodate bicycle elements of different sizes thereby protecting the bicycle and vehicles during transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Paul Gerard McGriskin, Ciara Anne McGriskin, Cian Desmond O'Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20180229795
    Abstract: A configurable cycle vehicle (10) has an adjustable frame (12) which is formed from a plurality of relatively configurable frame members (26, 28, 30, 32, 34), and which can be separately arranged in a first, upright riding condition, or alternatively in a second, recumbent riding condition. A method of conversion of a cycle vehicle between first and second riding conditions is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Wendy Thomson
  • Publication number: 20180229796
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a battery powered ride-on toy vehicle. The ride-on vehicle includes a main body, a front wheel assembly, and a steering assembly. The front wheel assembly is angularly offset from the main body so that steering the vehicle into a turn with the steering assembly creates a camber angle in the wheels of the front wheel assembly and tilts the main body into a turn. The ride-on vehicle may also include a rear wheel assembly and a drive assembly configured to drive any wheels included in the front wheel assembly and the rear assembly. The toy vehicle can also drift through turns while tilting into the turn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas Chojecki, Peter Truman vom Scheidt, JR., Kurt J. Huntsberger, William R. Howell, Jon Paul Castiglione
  • Publication number: 20180229797
    Abstract: A motorcycle frame includes a head pipe, a pair of front main frames, and a pair of rear main frames. The pair of front main frames separates in a vehicle width direction from the head pipe, extends toward a power engine that is located on a rear side of the head pipe, and includes power-engine fixing parts that are fixed to the power engine at positions that overlap with the power engine as viewed in the vehicle width direction. The pair of rear main frames extends rearward from the power-engine fixing parts of the pair of front main frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Minoru Makihara, Hideaki Kawai
  • Publication number: 20180229798
    Abstract: Generally, examples described herein may take the form of a bicycle including a front frame, a rear frame operably associated with the front frame and configured for coupling to a rear wheel, and a suspension system operably associated with the front frame and the rear frame. The suspension system includes a first connection structure operably coupling the front frame to the rear frame and a first sliding body pivotally coupled to the rear frame and configured to travel in a first direction along a substantially linear travel path and in a second direction opposite the first direction along the substantially linear travel path as the suspension system is compressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Steven W. Hoogendoorn, Peter Zawistowski
  • Publication number: 20180229799
    Abstract: A pedal includes an axle connected with a crank shaft. An axle seat is rotatably connected to the axle and a pedal unit is connected to the axle seal. At least one torque detection sensor is connected to at least one end of the axle seat by the least one fixing unit. When the pedal unit is applied by a force, the force is transferred to the at least one torque detection sensor via the axle seat. The at least one torque detection sensor generates a signal corresponding to the force and the signal is transferred to at least one signal transmitting module. The signal is used to control the output of the assistance system of the electric bike.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Chiu-Hsiang Lo
  • Publication number: 20180229800
    Abstract: A torque detection device of a rear frame of an electrically assisted bicycle includes two displacement detection units and a processing unit. The displacement detection units are installed at upper and lower fork arms of the rear frame respectively for detecting and converting displacement into force. Through mechanical analysis and mathematical operations, the processing unit processes signals obtained by the displacement detection units to remove any force perpendicular to a road surface and obtain a rider's treading torque while pedaling a pedal crank module. The displacement detection units are mounted onto the upper and lower fork arms without requiring any rotary joint. The displacement detection units are displacement detection devices applying different physical and chemical methods, such as strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, electromagnetic sensors, capacitive sensors, or optical sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Sen-Yung Lee, Cho-Yin Lee
  • Publication number: 20180229801
    Abstract: A bicycle rear sprocket assembly is basically provided that includes a first sprocket assembly and a second sprocket assembly. The first sprocket assembly includes at least one first sprocket and a first torque transmitting profile. The second sprocket assembly includes at least one second sprocket and a second torque transmitting profile. The second torque transmitting profile is configured to engage the first torque transmitting profile to transmit torque between the first sprocket assembly and the second sprocket assembly. A threaded portion is provided to one of the first sprocket assembly and the second sprocket assembly. The threaded portion is configured to threadedly engage a bicycle rear hub assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Naohiro NISHIMOTO
  • Publication number: 20180229802
    Abstract: A toothed wheel assembly that has at least two toothed wheels. Each toothed wheel has a plurality of teeth separated from one another by corresponding troughs and the second toothed wheel has a greater number of teeth than the number of teeth of the first toothed wheel. A plurality of connection bodies connect the first and second toothed wheels axially and space them. Each connection body has a first connection portion that is connected to the second toothed wheel and extends radially from the second toothed wheel towards the first toothed wheel and a second connection portion connected to the first toothed wheel that extends axially from the first toothed wheel. The second connection portion of each connection body has a circumferential bulk the radial projection of which is completely contained in a trough of the first toothed wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventors: Mirco CIVIERO, Filippo BISARELLO
  • Publication number: 20180229803
    Abstract: An apparatus for a bicycle includes an intermediate power connector configured for transmitting power between a bicycle component and a power source positioned remote from the bicycle component. The intermediate power connector has a coupling portion configured for removable attachment to a connecting portion of the bicycle component. The bicycle component can also include a battery having a battery coupling portion configured for removable attachment to the connecting portion of the bicycle component. The battery and the intermediate power connector can be selectively attachable to the bicycle component to provide power thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: SRAM, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Wesling
  • Publication number: 20180229804
    Abstract: A bicycle front derailleur that is movable between shift positions in association with an indexer. The inner mechanical end stop is adjusted at the first indexing position so there is no loosening of the control cable in the last downward gearshifting operation, with the benefit of an immediate and rapid response in the first upward gearshifting operation. The outer end stop is adjusted to interrupt the rotation of the cable-winding bush before it reaches the last indexing position. This pair of mechanical end stops limits the excursion of the derailleur to prevent it being able to shift the chain too much towards the frame or too much away from the frame, which ensures that the chain is not shifted beyond the gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventor: Marco MINTO
  • Publication number: 20180229805
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuation device for actuating the front derailleur of a bicycle, comprising a control pin, configured to be set in rotation by a control lever, rotatable about a rotation axis in a first angular direction between the first and last angular positions and in a second angular direction between the last and the first angular positions. A cable-winding bush rotates between the first and last winding positions. An indexer has a plurality of stop areas corresponding to angular positions between the first and the last angular positions. Elastic members makes the control pin form a unit with the cable-winding bush during rotations of the cable-winding bush between and among the various winding positions and to make the control pin rotatable with respect to the cable-winding bush between the last winding position of the cable-winding bush and the last angular position of the control pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventors: Marco MINTO, Christian MARANGON
  • Publication number: 20180229806
    Abstract: A bicycle gear shifter that has a control pin and a cable-winding bush mounted coaxially and rotatable in opposite angular directions. A ball-carrying bush is mounted coaxially for rotation as a unit with the cable-winding bush and is equipped with at least one slider. An indexing bush is rotatable with respect to the control pin is provided with a plurality of stop positions engageable during a relative rotation between the ball-carrying bush and the indexing bush, each stop position defining a stable angular position for the cable-winding bush. A pointer is switchable between an active position in which it interacts with the indexing bush to limit the angular play thereof with respect to the casing and a passive position in which it does not interact with the indexing bush and does not limit the angular position between the indexing bush and the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventor: Christian MARANGON
  • Publication number: 20180229807
    Abstract: A gear shift lever assembly includes a gear shift lever arm which includes a distal foot-peg end and a bifurcated proximal end and first passageway for facilitating securement of the gear shift lever arm to a gear selector spindle shaft of a motorcycle. The assembly also includes a spindle shaft mount insert sized to fit within the bifurcated ends of the gear shift lever arm. The insert has a splined aperture that matches the splines of the splines of the gear selector spindle shaft, and a second passageway having a longitudinal axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the splined aperture. The gear shift lever assembly is mountable to the gear selector spindle shaft of the motorcycle with the spindle shaft mount insert interposed between the bifurcated proximal end of the gear shift lever arm with a mounting bolt passed through the aligned first and second passageways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Weston Rocco Furia, John Clark
  • Publication number: 20180229808
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatuses are provided for the reduction of hydrodynamic frictional drag. These systems, methods and apparatuses can include a vessel surface having an external layer and a plurality of dimples, wherein the external layer comprises a hydrophilic material, and wherein each of the dimples includes an inner surface having a superhydrophobic coating. The dimples can be configured to maintain an air-water interface as one or more fluids flow over the vessel surface. In some embodiments, a pressure reservoir can be coupled with the dimples, and can include an acoustic speaker to vibrate the air-water interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Cong Wang, David Jeon, Morgane Grivel, Francisco Pereira, Morteza Gharib
  • Publication number: 20180229809
    Abstract: A process for lashing containers with a power tool, a lashing rod (2) connectable to a container and a turnbuckle (1) connectable to a container transport vehicle. The turnbuckle comprises a first connection part (14) connectable to the lashing rod and second connection part (15) connectable to the container transport vehicle, the turnbuckle being rotatable around it's longitudinal axis (L). At least one of the connection parts comprises a tensioning part (144) for tensioning the lashing rod by adapting the overall length of the turnbuckle and lashing rod. The tensioning part is driven by a drive part (145) which is operated by a power tool. For lashing a container the turnbuckle is connected to the container transport vehicle and the lashing rod, which is connected to the container. The turnbuckle is rotated until the drive part is accessible by the power tool. Then, the drive part is driven by the power tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Joeri STEFANOFF, Edwin VAN INGELGHEM, Jurgen DE WACHTER, Raf DE RUYSSCHER
  • Publication number: 20180229810
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is coupled to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Japec Jakopin
  • Publication number: 20180229811
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is slidably attached to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat, thus allowing for essentially vertical displacement of the dive platform with respect to the at least one hull portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: JAPEC JAKOPIN
  • Publication number: 20180229812
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is coupled to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat. The dive platform includes at least one clearance panel configured to allow access to the at least one propeller drive system in the event that the at least one propeller drive system needs to be serviced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: JAPEC JAKOPIN
  • Publication number: 20180229813
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is slidably attached to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat. An actuation system is configured to effectuate essentially vertical displacement of the dive platform with respect to the at least one hull portion. An interface system is configured to couple the actuation system with a rotation system for the at least one propeller drive system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Japec Jakopin
  • Publication number: 20180229814
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is coupled to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat. The dive platform includes at least one clearance panel configured to be displaced in the event that the at least one propeller drive system rotates upward due to running aground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Japec Jakopin
  • Publication number: 20180229815
    Abstract: An aft-mounted dive platform system includes at least one hull portion rigidly affixed to a hull of a boat. A dive platform is coupled to the at least one hull portion and is positioned, at least partially, behind at least one propeller drive system affixed to the stern of the boat. The at least one hull portion includes a first hull portion and a second hull portion. The first hull portion includes: a first inner portion surface positioned proximate a first side of the at least one propeller drive system and a first Outer portion surface positioned proximate a first outer surface of the hull of the boat; wherein the first outer portion surface of the first hull portion is recessed with respect to the first outer surface of the hull of the boat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Japec Jakopin
  • Publication number: 20180229816
    Abstract: Boats can include seating assemblies that can be configured in a variety of different arrangements. In one configuration of the seating assemblies described herein, a forward-facing seat and a rearward-facing seat are arranged back-to-back. In another configuration, the seating assembly can be arranged as an essentially flat surface that can serve as an expansive sun bathing platform. In still another configuration, the seating assembly can be configured in a comfortable lounging arrangement that can be forward-facing or rearward-facing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Michael J. Fafard, Gerren Shea Smith, Dale Norris Exum
  • Publication number: 20180229817
    Abstract: Boats can include seating assemblies that can be configured in a variety of different arrangements. In one configuration of the seating assemblies described herein, a forward-facing seat and a rearward-facing seat are arranged back-to-back above a seat bottom. In another configuration, the seating assembly can be arranged as a forward-facing reclined seat such that a forward rotation of the forward-facing seat to a flat position with the seat bottom causes a rearward rotation of the rearward-facing seat to a reclined position. In still another configuration, the seating assembly can be configured form a reclined seat in a rearward-facing configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Michael J. Fafard, Gerren Shea Smith, Dale Norris Exum
  • Publication number: 20180229818
    Abstract: A method and system for automatically enabling an automated commercial fishing process is provided. The method includes enabling a commercial fishing software application associated with selecting a location for implementing a commercial fishing process. In response user data identifying a user and license data associated with a commercial fishing license belonging to the user are received. A control signal is transmitted to a vehicle. The control signal enables control of the vehicle such that the vehicle initiates motion and navigates in a specified direction towards a specified geographical area. Control hardware of the vehicle verifies a status of the commercial fishing license belonging to the user and it is determined if the commercial fishing license authorizes commercial fishing activities within the specified geographical area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Ahamed Jalaldeen, Chivukula V. Narayana
  • Publication number: 20180229819
    Abstract: An underwater operation platform, including: a main body; two ducted propellers disposed at the tail end of the main body; a living building; pile legs; a tower crane; a submergence module; lifting devices; and a gantry crane. The main body includes a deck and a moonpool. The submergence module includes a support plate, a plurality of truss members, and a base plate. The living building disposed on the front end of the deck. The pile legs are disposed at the four corners of the main body, respectively. The deck includes two parallel pathways which are located at two sides of the moonpool, respectively, for supporting the gantry crane. The lifting devices are disposed on the deck and are close to four corners of the moonpool. The support plate and the base plate are integrated with the plurality of truss members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Yan LIN, Xiaoning JIANG, Tieli LI
  • Publication number: 20180229820
    Abstract: An electronically powered, light emitting fin used with a surfboard or paddleboard, or similar water sports board. The fin is configured to be attached to the water sports board to provide illumination under the board when using the device. The lighted fin may be particularly useful when using the water sports board at night to illuminate water beneath the board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: R. Brandon Bell
  • Publication number: 20180229821
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for automatically managing the ballast water of a dual-hulled ship and, more specifically, to an apparatus for automatically managing the ballast water of a ship, the apparatus dividing the structure of an integrated ballast water tank into ballast water tanks of a multi-layered structure, and filling each ballast water tank with seawater, so as to perform the original function thereof of maintaining the water-line by means of the ballast water, and having a structure and a device so as to utilize the seawater, used as cooling water, residential water, water for miscellaneous use, and the like, as the seawater of the ballast water tanks, thereby integrally managing the usage of the seawater of the ship, and continuously and successively changing the seawater of the ballast water tanks while the ship is sailing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Yong-Kyung KIM