Patents Issued in September 13, 2018
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Publication number: 20180257443Abstract: The present patent provides a method for improving the construction process of a wide-base radial truck tire, and the improvement of the tire construction process is realized by the design of carcass ply, the tire belt drum and the tire semi-finished components. The patent solves the problem of carcass bending, and provides theoretical guidance and technical support for improving the performance of wide-angle radial tires. The design method of the belt drum of the tire molding machine effectively controls the cords elongation of the belt. In addition, the problem of uneven force in the cords of the belt is eliminated, which dispels the abnormal flow of the wide-base tire shoulder rubber to the center of the crown during the shaping process, thus improving the durability and operability of the tire.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Haichao ZHOU, Chen LIANG, Jian YANG, Huihui ZHAI, Guolin WANG, Wei ZHOU
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Publication number: 20180257444Abstract: A chain holder includes a first portion, a second portion, a third portion connecting the first portion with the third portion, a first hook portion extending from the first portion, and a second hook portion extending from the second portion. The first portion and the second portion may be disposed substantially in parallel with each other. The third portion may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the first portion and the second portion. A chain holder may include a first projection and a second projection. The first projection may extend inward from the first portion and the second projection may extend inward from the second portion. The first projection and the second projection may be substantially aligned with each other. A distance from the first projection to the third portion corresponds to a height of a trailer assembly component.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Gregory D. Hack
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Publication number: 20180257445Abstract: A tow hook assembly includes a bracket and a tow loop carried on the bracket. The bracket includes a guide track. The tow loop is displaceable along the guide track between a retracted position and a deployed position. A method of deploying a tow loop is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Jay Robert Degenkolb
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Publication number: 20180257446Abstract: A dolly, a dolly towing system and a method of operating a dolly towing system. The dolly includes a wheeled platform with a coupled electric generator and an automated safety interlock assembly. The interlock assembly includes one or more sensors configured to wirelessly detect whether the dolly and tow motor are safely joined to one another. A controller can be powered by a battery or related onboard source of electric current while the dolly or system are stationary, as well as by the generator when the dolly or system are moving. Signals indicative of the joining that are acquired from the sensors can be received and processed by the controller such that suitable circuitry can convey the processed signal in such a way that the signal provides an audible or visual notice of an operational status of the dolly or system to an operator.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Adam M. Epperson
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Publication number: 20180257447Abstract: A dual-mode vehicle, wheels for the vehicle, and a method of transitioning the vehicle from a land mode to a flight mode. In the land mode, the method includes rotating a pair of spaced wheel arms about a central pivot to lower a body of the dual-mode vehicle to a ground surface. Each wheel arm extends from the central pivot to a wheel. The method also includes rotating the central pivot about a longitudinal vehicle axis to raise the wheel arms and the wheels above the ground surface. After raising the wheel arms and wheels above the ground surface, the method includes rotating the wheel arms about the central pivot to position the wheels for use as rotors in the flight mode. In the flight mode, the method includes rotating the wheels in order to extract rotor blades positioned within the wheels to extend beyond the wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Taewoo Nam, Yasuo Uehara
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Publication number: 20180257448Abstract: A modular air land vehicle comprising an air vehicle module and a roadworthy land vehicle module, which may interconnect by the air vehicle module landing directly on a stationary or moving land vehicle module as appropriate for the air vehicle lifting design. The air vehicle module has the capability/utility of separating from the land vehicle module and taking off in a flight mode; thereby enabling the air and land modules to be operated separately and independently without the need to take heavy roadworthy structure into flight. This invention provides the combined benefits of air vehicle travel and land vehicle travel allowing the land vehicle systems or structure to be tailored and optimized for land and road travel without unduly increasing the air vehicle weight or aerodynamic drag.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Raymond Joseph Schreiner
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Publication number: 20180257449Abstract: A damping convoluted air spring for use in vehicle axle/suspension systems includes a top plate, a bottom plate, and a bellows. The bellows includes a first lobe, a second lobe, and a third lobe operatively connected to one another. The first lobe being in fluid communication with the second lobe. The second lobe being in fluid communication with said third lobe. The first lobe operatively mounted on the top plate. The third lobe operatively mounted on the bottom plate. The second lobe includes a fixed volume under pressure to provide damping to the air spring during operation of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Damon Delorenzis, Michael J. Gottschalk, Matthew J. Van Meter
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Publication number: 20180257450Abstract: In a motor vehicle chassis, all four wheel suspensions each have associated therewith a hydraulic height adjustment device having a cylinder-piston arrangement which acts on a base point of the relevant spring and is supplied by a decentral hydraulic aggregate. The hydraulic height adjustment devices each comprise a complex, integrated electrohydraulic adjustment assembly comprising the allocated hydraulic aggregate and the associated cylinder-piston arrangement and having a specific adapter into which the allocated cylinder-piston arrangement is integrated in such a way that there are no exposed hydraulic lines between the allocated hydraulic pump and the associated cylinder-piston arrangement. The front wheel height adjustment devices and the rear wheel height adjustment devices differ in terms of the adapter.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Klaus STOLLE
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Publication number: 20180257451Abstract: In a motor vehicle chassis, at least one wheel suspension, which comprises a spring in the form of a coil spring, has associated therewith a hydraulic height adjustment device having a cylinder-piston arrangement which acts on a base point of the coil spring. The cylinder-piston arrangement can be supplied by a decentral hydraulic aggregate which is associated with the relevant wheel and comprises a storage container for hydraulic fluid and a hydraulic pump driven by an electric motor. At least the electric motor of the hydraulic aggregate is situated within the coil spring.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Klaus STOLLE, Gerhard HUBER, Gisela SCHLEICH, Jürgen OSTERRIED, Peter MÜLLER
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Publication number: 20180257452Abstract: A linkage includes a lower cross member supported by a link support and provided with a rear element turnable about a turning axis behind the link support. The body frame includes an upper frame, a lower frame and a coupling frame. The upper frame and the lower frame extend rearward from the link support to intersect areas respectively located directly above and below a turning range of the rear element. A longitudinal direction of the coupling frame extends in an up-down direction of the body frame. The coupling frame couples the upper and lower frames at a location behind the rear element. A majority of a front edge of the coupling frame extends along the longitudinal direction as viewed from a left-right direction of the body frame when the leaning vehicle is in an upright condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Ryuta MITSUOKA, Nobuhiko HIRAKAWA
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Publication number: 20180257453Abstract: An air-conditioning system, in particular for a motor vehicle, having a refrigerant circuit, which has an evaporator and a condenser, and a coolant circuit, wherein the refrigerant circuit and the coolant circuit are thermally coupled to each other, in particular in the region of the evaporator and in the region of the condenser, wherein the coolant circuit has a line system having junctions, wherein a heating body, a cooling body, an outside heat exchanger, an additional heat source, a first bypass line, and a second bypass line are integrated into the line system, wherein the first bypass line bypasses the additional heat source from the cooling body to the outside heat exchanger, and/or the second bypass line bypasses the additional heat source from the heating body to the outside heat exchanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: MAHLE International GmbHInventor: Joachim Michael HAUG
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Publication number: 20180257454Abstract: Agricultural machines such as sprayers can be improved by providing a control system configured to adjust an engine cooling package fan with variable speeds, to thereby minimize parasitic losses, based on progress of the HVAC system for attaining a desired temperature in the operator cab. In one aspect, as a gap between actual and desired temperatures (temperature differential) in the cab minimizes, the cooling package fan can be variably adjusted to increase or decrease in speed, depending on heating or cooling occurring in the cab, respectively. However, if a temperature of an area in the engine compartment reaches a predetermined threshold, such variable speed control can cease, and the cooling package fan can instead be controlled to cool the area.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Nathan Brooks
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Publication number: 20180257455Abstract: Agricultural machines such as sprayers can be improved by providing pressure sensors inside and outside of the operator cab, a cab sensor for sensing an open or closed state of the operator cab, and a controller configured to activate/deactivate an airflow system according to the pressure sensors and the cab sensor. Accordingly, the controller can activate the airflow system to provide a positive pressure differential in the operator cab (higher pressure in the operator cab/lower pressure external to the operator cab), and deactivate the airflow system when the operator cab is in the open state to maximize the life of the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Nathan Brooks
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Publication number: 20180257456Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle radiation heater being configured to perform heating by directly emitting radiant heat toward a passenger at an early stage of starting of a vehicle in winter. The vehicle radiation heater according to the present invention can be simple in structure, thereby being easy to manufacture, can quickly emit high-temperature radiant heat over the entire area of the heater, thereby enhancing rapid and comforting heating effects, and can maintain a constant temperature, thereby preventing a risk of overheating.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Dong Hoon OH, Kil Sang JANG, Soo Doo PARK, Tae Yong PARK, Yun Sub CHUNG, Man Ju OH, Jae Woong KIM, So La CHUNG
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Publication number: 20180257457Abstract: A vehicle includes a heating system to selectively heat a vehicle device structured for contact by a vehicle occupant or for the occupant to view surroundings outside the vehicle from inside it. In one form, the vehicle device is a steering wheel, and the heating system encompasses a vehicle power supply electrically coupled to a rechargeable energy source to energize a heating element that together increase device temperature more rapidly than with just one of them alone. The heating system detects depletion of the rechargeable energy source and recharges it with the vehicle power supply, while increasing the temperature more slowly because the heating element is only being energized by the vehicle power supply. If the temperature is greater than or equal to a target level, energization of the heating element includes some form of time-varying modulation to approximately maintain the temperature target level.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Matthew William Michael Olson, Sean Bayle West, James Robert Chascsa, II, Karl Derek Kiefer, Kenneth Michael Landis
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Publication number: 20180257458Abstract: An air conditioning system for use with a vehicle is configured to provide conditioned air. The air conditioning system includes a controller configured to vary a flow of the conditioned air and the controller is arranged to be cooled by the conditioned air.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Adel Gergis, Igor Galaev, Eric Weiss
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Publication number: 20180257459Abstract: Provided are a filter cover including: a body; a pair of fastening parts protruding from both end of the body in a length direction thereof and coupled to coupling parts formed in an air conditioning case; a first reinforcement rib having one side fixed to a front surface of the body in a width direction thereof and the other side fixed to the fastening parts; and a support rib protruding from one side of the first reinforcement rib in a height direction and fixed to the body, and an air conditioning system for a vehicle including an air conditioning case having coupling parts formed around a filter insertion hole into which a filter is inserted, and the filter cover coupled to the air conditioning case.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Dong Gyun KIM, Si Hyung KIM, Ki Chan PARK, Dae Keun PARK, Eun Suk BAE, Nam Joon LEE, Ho LEE
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Publication number: 20180257460Abstract: A side window visor designed to attach to a vehicle window channel. The side window visor can be arranged and configured to extend over a portion of a window area for preventing inclement weather from entering the passenger cabin with the window slightly opened. A full length tab is reduced to form a plurality of tabs along the tab area of a side window visor. The plurality of tabs located on the side window visor allows the auto-up window feature to be used without causing large resistance and retraction of the window.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Luis H. Serentill, John A. Wargo
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Publication number: 20180257461Abstract: A vehicle door includes a window frame delimiting a window aperture and a window pane that is adjustably positioned in the window aperture. The window frame includes a first leg having a first surface which is situated opposite a first edge of the window pane extending in the adjusting direction. The window frame also includes a second leg having a second surface which is located opposite a second edge of the window pane extending in the adjusting direction. At least the first surface of the first leg delimits a clearance of the window pane transversely to the adjusting direction. In a closed position, the first edge and the first surface touch one another at the height of an upper region of the first leg. At a height of a lower region of the first leg the first edge and the first surface run spaced from one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Michael Horneck
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Publication number: 20180257462Abstract: A vehicle includes a first roller having a first roller magnet and a second roller having a second roller magnet. A shade includes a first shade magnet and a second shade magnet. At least one of the first and second shade magnets are coupled to at least one of the first and second roller magnets.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Michael Serebrennikov
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Publication number: 20180257463Abstract: A device for preventing intrusion of collected water into a vehicle is provided, defined by a water diverter configured and dimensioned to divert water from at least a vehicle-rearward edge of a roof panel aperture provided for a vehicle sun roof/moon roof assembly. The water diverter further includes end portions configured and dimensioned to divert water from at least a portion of opposed vehicle-outboard edges of the roof panel aperture.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Joshua Robert Hemphill, George Michalopoulos, Spencer Monroe Dinkins, III, Gregory James Grudzinski, Ronald M. Lovasz
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Publication number: 20180257464Abstract: An arrangement for a movable roof element (101) for a motor vehicle (100) has: a carriage (103) which is designed to be guided in a rail (104) and to be moved relative to the rail (104) and which has a first component (105) and a second component (106), and a drive cable (107), wherein the second component (106) at least partially surrounds the first component (105) and the drive cable (107) in order to form a coupling (108) between the drive cable (107) and the carriage (103), wherein the coupling (108) has: a roughening (109) of the first component (105) in order to form a non-positive and/or integrally bonded connection between the first (105) and the second (106) component.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Dominik HÖLZEL
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Publication number: 20180257465Abstract: The present invention provides a sunroof device having a good appearance which can enlarge ventilation area on the roof and decrease the wind noise when travelling. The sunroof device comprises: a movable panel; a guide rail; a panel supporter; a drive slider; a rear link; and a shield plate comprising a shield plate body and a shield plate arm located at rear of the shield plate body in the front-rear direction of the vehicle; wherein the drive slider and the rear link are provided at rear of the shield plate arm in the front-rear direction of the vehicle; and the front end portion of the panel supporter is pivotally supported on the guide rail by a support shaft, so as to be freely movable in the front-rear direction of the vehicle, and is provided inside of the shield plate arm in the width direction of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: AISIN WUXI BODY PARTS CO., LTD.Inventors: Iwashita KATSUYOSHI, Kazuki Sawada
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Publication number: 20180257466Abstract: A vented tonneau cover for a cargo bed of a pickup truck. The cargo bed of the pickup truck is defined by a pair of side walls having tops, respectively, and a tailgate to access the cargo bed of the pickup truck. The top of each side wall of the cargo bed of the pickup truck has a pair of ends. Each end of the top of each side wall of the cargo bed of the pickup truck has a through bore therein. The vented tonneau covering includes netting that covers the cargo bed of the pickup truck, and an apparatus that holds down the netting over the cargo bed of the pickup truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Richard Flocco
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Publication number: 20180257467Abstract: A hard top structure for a vehicle having a roll-bar cage is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the hard top structure may include a frame adapted to overlay on and attach to the roll-bar cage. The frame may include an upper frame member that defines one or more upper frame openings. Further, the upper frame member may have a channel member that extends around at least a portion of each upper frame opening. The hard top structure may also include one or more upper frame panels with each corresponding to one of the upper frame openings. Each upper frame panel may have an insert member that extends around at least a portion of a perimeter of that panel. Also, each upper frame panel may be positioned in one of the upper frame openings so that the corresponding insert and channel members form a seal joint.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Eddie Rodriguez
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Publication number: 20180257468Abstract: A retractable canopy for a vehicle, the retractable canopy moving independently of a vehicle roll bar being retracted or raised. Canopies for weather protection both from excessive exposure to the sun and from precipitation are commonly used on many types of vehicles, which in many cases may be motorized. For safety reasons, and often also legal requirements, these vehicles may be equipped with a roll bar or similar structure to protect the operator of the vehicle from injury in the event that the vehicle rolls over. When the vehicle encounters a low-lying obstruction, the canopy may be quickly lowered to enable the vehicle to travel underneath and past the obstruction, after which the canopy may be quickly raised again. Raising or lowering of the canopy is independent of whether the roll bar is raised or lowered, and raising or lowering of the roll bar is independent of the canopy position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: The Perry CompanyInventor: Jerrod Chance Cook
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Publication number: 20180257469Abstract: A foldable roof assembly having a soft panel top assembly for a vehicle in sealing engagement with a hard top portion of a roof. The soft panel top assembly has a fixed portion attached to the vehicle and a lightweight pivotal portion that folds back to provide the occupant a quick and easy open air effect. Two door rails of the soft panel top assembly are connected to the vehicle. Two side bows are attached to a first bow member, which is secured to a windshield frame when in a closed position, and are connected at a pivot point created with a bracket attached to the door rails to allow the pivotal portion to pivot to an open position. The soft panel top assembly includes a rear header that is a wireframe and engages with seals in the hard top roof portion to provide a weatherproof seal.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: William H. Haberkamp, George C. Stickles, Duane C. Junkin
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Publication number: 20180257470Abstract: Disclosed are the design and utilitarian characteristics of a support device for supporting a cover wherein such cover is typically used to cover a vehicle such as a boat or automobile. The invention includes a dome shaped support device with a depending base configured for extending through a cover. The depending base defines an interface for being associated with a support structure such as a pole and such interface may be a swivel interface. Additionally, the support device may define a suspension interface so that a tether may be used to apply a support force from above the support device. The support device may also define a swivel device configured for being associated with a support surface such as a floor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2013Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: William E. Gridley
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Publication number: 20180257471Abstract: A protrusion (54) acting as an engagement portion is provided to a root (52) of a spindle (5) to an engine. An extending portion (45) extending above the root (52) of the spindle (5) is provided to a stopper (4). An opening (46) acting as a coupler is provided to the extending portion (45). The protrusion (54) and the opening (46) engage with each other, thereby reducing the risk of the spindle (5) coming off and regulating relative displacement of an upper rigid member (2) supporting the spindle (5) inserted into the upper rigid member (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: KURASHIKI KAKO CO., LTD.Inventor: Prabhakar SOMA
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Publication number: 20180257472Abstract: A motor vehicle includes an engine assembly housed in a bay, a subframe adjacent a bottom of the bay, a bulkhead adjacent a rear of the bay, and a catch structure extending laterally across the bay above the subframe and adjacent an upper end of the bulkhead. A lower catch hook is coupled to the engine assembly and configured to engage the subframe and transfer load from the engine assembly to the subframe when the engine assembly moves toward the bulkhead during a collision. An upper catch hook is coupled to the engine assembly and configured to engage the catch structure and transfer load from the engine assembly to the catch structure when the engine assembly moves toward the bulkhead during the collision. The catch structure may be a cable connected to left and right suspension towers.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventor: Michael SPURLING
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Publication number: 20180257473Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein provide for receiving internal hybrid vehicle information, external static information, and external dynamic information; determining a propulsion power for the hybrid vehicle at a particular location at a particular time based on at least one of the internal hybrid vehicle information, the external static information, and the external dynamic information; determining a current state of charge of a battery, wherein the battery is operatively coupled to an electric motor in the hybrid vehicle; and managing a state of charge of the battery at the particular location at the particular time based on the current state of charge and the determined propulsion power.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Kenneth M. Follen, Arun Prakash Thunga Gopal, Vivek A. Sujan, Pinak Jayant Tulpule, Mugdha S. Sane
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Publication number: 20180257474Abstract: A transmission system (100) for vehicles comprising at least one set of plurality of input shafts (110 & 116) disposed concentrically and having an exposed portion; clutch means (108 & 114) at one end of the input shafts for connecting the input shafts to power sources; an output shaft (118) in communication with the input shafts for conveying the power to set of wheels; input gears (102 & 104) arranged in spaced parallel disposition on the exposed portion of the input shafts; dog clutch means (124 & 126) disposed between the input gears for locking the input shafts to respective input gears; and plurality of drive gears (120) arranged in spaced parallel disposition on the output shaft (118) for engaging in drive relation with the input gears, where the drive gears are configured to transmit power to the output shaft from the input shafts by means of the input gears.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Atul RANADE
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Publication number: 20180257475Abstract: A hybrid drive module, comprising a cover of a torque converter. The hybrid drive module further includes a carrier hub connected to a rotor of an electric motor and the cover, the hub including a first surface and a protrusion extending outward from the first surface. The hybrid drive module also includes an end ring disposed between the protrusion and the rotor and in contact with the first surface, wherein the end ring is engaged with the protrusion and the rotor, and the protrusion restrains the end ring and rotor utilizing an interference fit between the carrier hub and the end ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Ayyalraju SATYASEELAN, Justin PERSINGER
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Publication number: 20180257476Abstract: A support structure for rotating shafts of a vehicle, including: a drive shaft operatively connected to a power transmitting shaft to which a drive force of an engine is transmitted; and a rotor shaft of an electric motor spline-coupled to the drive shaft, each of the rotor shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft is being supported by at least one bearing, in the support structure, one of the rotor shaft and the drive shaft is constituted by a first rotary shaft and a second rotary shaft which are operatively connected to each other, and an elastic member is interposed between the first rotary shaft and the second rotary shaft such that the first and second rotary shafts are operatively spline-connected to each other through the elastic member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2015Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yoshimitsu YOKOUCHI, Hiroki KUWAMOTO, Haruo ISOMURA, Akitaka ICHIKAWA, Hiroatsu ENDO
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Publication number: 20180257477Abstract: A vehicle includes a first axle system operatively connected to a first set of wheels, a second axle system operatively connected to a second set of wheels, a first drive system operatively connected to the first set of wheels, a second drive system operatively connected to the second set of wheels independent of the first set of wheels, and a traction management control module electrically coupled to at least one of the first and second drive systems. The traction management control module calculates a torque capability of the corresponding one of the first and second axle systems and selectively transmits an axle torque command to the corresponding one of the first and second axle systems based on the torque capability.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Eric E. KRUEGER, Xiaofeng MAO, Kevin A. O'DEA
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Publication number: 20180257478Abstract: Regular torque split planetary gear trains for automotive hybrid powertrains are limited by the fixed ratio of the planetary gear train. A powertrain incorporating a continuously variable transmission using a torque split with variable ratios enables the powertrain to use the ideal operating lines (IOL) of the engine, electric motor and generator along with the high voltage battery charge/discharge paths, depending upon the mode of operation (charge sustain or charge deplete modes) of the hybrid powertrain. A powertrain further equipped with a hybrid supervisory controller that chooses the torque split and path of highest efficiency from engine to wheel, can operate at the best potential overall efficiency point in any mode and also provide torque variability, thereby leading to the best combination of powertrain performance and fuel efficiency. Embodiments of powertrain configurations that can improve the efficiency of hybrid vehicles are discussed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: DANA LIMITEDInventors: RAYMOND J. HAKA, KRISHNA KUMAR, ROBERT A. SMITHSON, STEVEN J. WESOLOWSKI, JAMES F. ZIECH
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Publication number: 20180257479Abstract: The electric vehicle including one or more in-wheel motors, a battery electrically coupled to one or more in-wheel motors, a power electronics including a DC-AC inverter, a AC-DC inverter, and a boost converter that receives DC power from the battery and supplies AC power to the one or more in-wheel motors, and a generator electrically coupled to the battery via the power electronics. Further, it includes a Rankine cycle system including a pump, a first valve having an input, a first output, and a second output connected to the pump, the generator, and the one or more in-wheel motors, respectively. A second valve having a first input connects to the generator, a second input connects the one or more in-wheel motors and an output delivers the working fluid to the power electronics. An expander receives the working fluid from at least one of the power electronics.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Feng ZHOU, Ercan Mehmet DEDE
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Publication number: 20180257480Abstract: A hybrid vehicle including one or more in-wheel motors, a power electronics supplying power to the one or more in-wheel motors, and a Rankine cycle system is described. The Rankine cycle system includes a pump driving a working fluid, a first three-way valve having an input, a first output, and a second output. The Rankine cycle system also includes, a second three-way valve having a first input, a second input, and an output, an evaporator receiving the working fluid from the output of the second three-way valve and heating the working fluid utilizing heat from an exhaust gas from an engine, an expander receiving the working fluid from the evaporator, and a radiator cooling the working fluid received from the expander.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Feng ZHOU, Ercan Mehmet DEDE
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Publication number: 20180257481Abstract: A hybrid vehicle including one or more in-wheel motors, a power electronics supplying power to the one or more in-wheel motors, and a Rankine cycle system is described. The Rankine cycle system includes a pump driving a working fluid through the Rankine cycle system, a heat exchanger receiving the working fluid from to the pump and connected to the power electronics to cool the power electronics, an evaporator heating the working fluid received from the heat exchanger utilizing heat from an exhaust gas from an engine, an expander receiving the working fluid from the evaporator, and a radiator cooling the working fluid received from the expander.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Feng ZHOU, Ercan Mehmet DEDE
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Publication number: 20180257482Abstract: An air intake duct is fixed to the lower surface of the rear floor panel of a vehicle. An oil cooler, which is an object to be cooled, is fixed to the lower surface of the air intake duct. An exhaust duct, which discharges air supplied to the oil cooler to the outside of the vehicle, is fixed to the lower surface of the oil cooler. The exhaust duct includes an exhaust port, which is open to the outside of the vehicle and is open downward from the vehicle. The intake duct includes an intake port, which is open to the outside of the vehicle and is opened at a position posterior to the rear tires of the vehicle, in other words, is opened in the rear wall portion of the rear bumper.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Shingo KONDO, Masaya TADATSU, Akihito HOSOI, Kouichi YONEMURA, Kiwamu INUI
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Publication number: 20180257483Abstract: An exhaust after-treatment mounting arrangement is provided that is mounted outside of an engine compartment and has a perforated enclosure allowing air to permeate the enclosure and establish an airflow through the enclosure to maintain part integrity of components of an exhaust after-treatment system with maximum temperature thresholds. Components of the exhaust after-treatment system may be mounted to permit movement of such components relative to upstream and downstream components in the exhaust system. The enclosure is configured to prevent contact of the hot components by operators and/or flammable materials with small venting holes through top surfaces of the enclosure and large vent holes in bottom areas of the box that allow large volumes of air to easily flow into the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Frederic George Kuhn, Karl M. Luebke
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Publication number: 20180257484Abstract: A first gear train couples one shaft with the left axle or the right axle. The one shaft is one of two shafts which are not coupled to the reduction gear. The other one of the two shafts is coupled with one element which are not coupled to the first gear train among three elements of the differential case, the left axle and the right axle. The planetary gear mechanism, first gear train and second gear train have a gear ratio by which rotation of a motor stops when the differential apparatus does not perform differential operation and total torque of the left axle and the right axle when torque of the motor is applied does not change. The motor is disposed at one side in a vehicle widthwise direction with reference to the differential apparatus, and a planetary gear mechanism is disposed at the other side.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Takuya YAMAMURA
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Publication number: 20180257485Abstract: A powertrain for a motor vehicle includes at least one electrical machine having a stator and a rotor that is rotatable relative to the stator and at least one driveshaft, via which at least one wheel of the motor vehicle can be driven by the electrical machine. At least one longitudinal region of the driveshaft, which has at least one joint, is arranged in the rotor and surrounded by the rotor at least in the circumferential direction of the driveshaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventor: Florian Vincon
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Publication number: 20180257486Abstract: An auxiliary propulsion system for a skateboard, watercraft or other small vehicle has a wheel or propeller powered by a motor at one end and a handle at the other end. A person riding a vehicle adjusts the position and orientation of the device to apply a propulsion force in a desired direction. The amount of torque applied to the propeller or wheel can be adjusted in real time. Because the propulsion system is not a fixed to the craft or person it is propelling, it may be exchanged between people in mid-transit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: AMPSTICK, INC.Inventors: Eduardo Alejandro Noble Nava, Zhe Kevin Wang
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Publication number: 20180257487Abstract: A vehicle transfer structure includes a main-drive-wheel output shaft that receives torque from a drive source and outputs it to main drive wheels, a part-time-drive-wheel output shaft provided parallel to the main-drive-wheel output shaft, a coupling provided on the main-drive-wheel output shaft and which partially extracts the torque to the part-time-drive-wheel output shaft via a transmission mechanism, and a damper disposed on the main-drive-wheel output shaft. The coupling is provided with an input-side coupling part coupled to an inner circumferential part of the damper. The input-side coupling part is coupled, via a spline-fitted section, to an output-side coupling part of a drive force transmission member which is coupled to an outer circumferential part of the damper and transmits a drive force to a driving-side transmission member of the transmission mechanism. The spline-fitted section allows a relative rotation between the input- and output-side coupling parts within a given angle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Yuzo Ohkawa, Eiji Mito
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Publication number: 20180257488Abstract: A rotary shifter with 360° rotation in each of clockwise and counter clockwise rotating directions. The shifter includes a package housing with a bezel cover. A cylindrical shaped plunger housing is secured to a rotary knob supported atop the housing and which is selectively rotatable in the clockwise direction from a Park gear position, in succession, to each of a Reverse gear position, a Neutral gear position and at least one Drive gear position, with further clockwise rotation preventing movement beyond a final one of the Drive gear positions. The knob is further selectively rotatable in a counter clockwise direction to return to the Park gear position, with additional permitted counter-clockwise rotation retaining the shifter in the Park gear position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Brian Mayville, Yong Qiang Wang, Christopher Soave, Christopher Curtis, Scott Hengy
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Publication number: 20180257489Abstract: A vehicular display device, in execution of following cruise control with a preceding vehicle ahead of a host vehicle, causes a fixed indication to light up and displays a following mark in a superimposed manner with a following-target preceding vehicle. The fixed indication indicates that the following-target preceding vehicle has been detected. The vehicular display device includes a preceding vehicle detector that detects the following-target preceding vehicle, a display setter that sets the fixed indication to light up and sets the following mark to be displayed in a superimposed manner with the following-target preceding vehicle when the following-target preceding vehicle has been detected by the preceding vehicle detector, and a head-up display that displays images of the fixed indication and the following mark set by the display setter in a display region provided to be superimposed on a position of a windshield of the host vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2015Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiroshi Watanabe, Masayuki Shishido, Norio Kosaka, Kenji Maruyama
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Publication number: 20180257490Abstract: The fuel cell unit includes: a fuel cell stack; a cell monitor configured to detect voltage or current of the fuel cell stack; wire harness configured to connect the fuel cell stack and the cell monitor to each other; a power conversion unit configured to include a switching element and to perform conversion of output power of the fuel cell stack or conversion of supplied power to auxiliary machines used for operation of the fuel cell stack by using the switching element; and a bulkhead part that is made of metal and is configured to partition the wire harness and the power conversion unit from each other, the bulkhead part being grounded, wherein the wire harness and the power conversion unit are placed next to each other with the bulkhead part interposed therebetween. Thus, it becomes implementable to downsize the fuel cell unit while satisfying both the prevention of physical contact between the wire harness and the power conversion unit and the suppression of influences of switching noise on analog data.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2018Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Masahiro lMANISHI
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Publication number: 20180257491Abstract: Provided is a regenerative coordination brake control device that reduces the frequency of switching regenerative braking between a restricted state, in which regenerative braking is prohibited or suppressed, and a restriction removed state, in which the restriction on regenerative braking is removed. A regenerative coordination brake control device 91 includes a regeneration restriction condition determiner 92, which outputs a regeneration restriction signal S1 when determining that a restriction condition for prohibiting or suppressing regenerative braking is met, an acceleration operation detector 93, which outputs a regeneration restriction removal signal S2 when detecting an acceleration of the vehicle, and a regeneration restriction removal determiner 94, which determines whether a restriction on regenerative braking of the vehicle that is in the restricted state is to be continuously imposed or removed using the regeneration restriction removal signal S2 and the regeneration restriction signal S1.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2016Publication date: September 13, 2018Applicant: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yoshinori TOMITA, Ryo SHIMIZU, Norihiko IKOMA
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Publication number: 20180257492Abstract: A technique controls charge on a lithium battery of a utility vehicle. The technique involves operating electronic circuitry of the utility vehicle in a normal operating mode in which the electronic circuitry charges the lithium battery to a normal charge level. The technique further involves, after operating the electronic circuity in the normal operating mode, transitioning the electronic circuitry from the normal operating mode to a storage mode in which the electronic circuitry is configured to set an amount of charge on the lithium battery to within a predefined storage range (or level) which is lower than the normal charge level. The technique further involves, in response to transitioning the electronic circuitry, adjusting the amount of charge on the lithium battery from an initial charge level which is outside the predefined storage range to an adjusted charge level which is within the predefined storage range.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2017Publication date: September 13, 2018Inventors: Luke Anthony O'Hara, Arthur James Harvey, John Ledden, Russell William King