Patents Issued in September 13, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180257643
    Abstract: A self-driving vehicle can operate by analyzing a live sensor view to autonomously operate acceleration, braking, and steering systems of the SDV along a current route. Based on a detected anomaly associated with the live sensor view, the SDV can transmit a teleassistance inquiry to a backend transport system in accordance with a data prioritization scheme. The SDV can receive a resolution response from the backend transport system based on the teleassistance inquiry, and proceed in accordance with the resolution response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Benjamin Kroop, William Ross, Andrew Heine
  • Publication number: 20180257644
    Abstract: Disclosed is a collision avoidance assisting apparatus which can execute an automatic braking process and an automatic steering process for avoiding collision with an obstacle. When the magnitude of a steering angle exceeds a predetermined threshold, the collision avoidance assisting apparatus determines that a driver has an intention of avoiding the collision by a steering operation and stops the automatic braking process and the automatic steering process. However, in such a case, the automatic braking process and the automatic steering process may be stopped when the steering angle exceeds the threshold as a result of execution of the automatic steering process. In view of this, when both the automatic braking process and the automatic steering process are being executed, the collision avoidance assisting apparatus continues the automatic braking process and the automatic steering process even when the magnitude of the steering angle is greater than the predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kohei MOROTOMI, Noriyuki TSURUOKA
  • Publication number: 20180257645
    Abstract: A device for a vehicle for providing information about an expected driving intention, a device for a vehicle for determining a driving recommendation, a method for a vehicle for providing information about an expected driving intention, a method for a vehicle for determining a driving recommendation, and a computer program. The device includes a driving analysis module to determine information about an expected trajectory of the vehicle, a control module to determine information about an expected driving intention of the vehicle based on the information about the expected trajectory of the vehicle, and an interface to make available the information about the expected driving intention for one or more vehicle-external entities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Teodor BUBURUZAN, Sandra KLEINAU, Bernd RECH, Monique ENGEL, Bernd LEHMANN, Stefan GLÄSER, Hendrik-Jörn GÜNTHER
  • Publication number: 20180257646
    Abstract: Rear lateral detection (RLL) ECU 10 determines whether or not a lane change assist control (LCA) is being performed. The RLDECU 10 sets a performing condition for performing a rear-end pre-crash safety control (rear PCS control) to a moderate performing condition when the LCA is being performed, and sets the performing condition of the rear PCS control to a normal performing condition when the LCA, is not being performed. The moderate performing condition is set such that the rear PCS control is performed more easily compared with the normal performing condition. For example, in the moderate performing condition, a detection area of a target vehicle which is a vehicle subject to the rear PCS control is expanded compared with the detection area in the normal performing condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Koji Takeuchi
  • Publication number: 20180257647
    Abstract: A method and device for determining an anomalous driving pattern of a neighboring vehicle using a vehicle camera and/or other sensor is described. Image data is received and if suitable lane markings are detected, a reference trajectory is derived from the detected lane markers. Otherwise, a reference trajectory is derived from a motion of the present vehicle. A trajectory of the neighboring vehicle is determined, characteristic parameters of the detected trajectory are derived, and the characteristic parameters are compared with predetermined trajectory data. Based on the comparison it is determined if the trajectory of the neighboring vehicle is an anomalous trajectory and in one case an alert signal is generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
    Inventors: Razvan-Calin Jurca, Nicolae Pahontu, Steen Kristensen, Bernd Hartmann
  • Publication number: 20180257648
    Abstract: Provided is a feature such that the opportunity to cancel travel control can be reduced by seamlessly switching between travel modes in combination with a plurality of functions. This travel control device 201 has: a first mode which causes a vehicle to travel according to the control target set on the basis of an object outside the vehicle; and a second mode which causes the vehicle to travel according to the control target set irrespective of an object outside the vehicle. If it is impossible to set the control target on the basis of the object outside the vehicle during traveling in the first mode, the travel mode is shifted to the second mode. If it is impossible to set the control target on the basis of the object outside the vehicle during traveling in the second mode, the travel mode is shifted to the first mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shunsuke KATOH, Kiyoshi YOROZUYA, Shigenori HAYASE
  • Publication number: 20180257649
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vehicle speed control system, configured with off-road performance features, that will allow the driver to travel at a set speed in a smooth, controlled manner on various unmaintained surfaces without requiring the driver to press the brake or accelerator pedal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicants: Kelsey-Hayes Company, Lucas Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Sean Simmons, Shawn Hawley, Charles Anthony Bartlett, Elmar Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20180257650
    Abstract: A driver assistance device for a motor vehicle with a drive assembly, which can be connected to a drivetrain via a clutch that can be activated by an actuator. The clutch being a component of an electronically controlled clutch system, in which a clutch pedal sensor detects an actuation of a clutch pedal on the driver's side and in which an analysis unit determines, in a first control mode on the basis of the detected clutch pedal actuation, a clutch torque and actuates the clutch with a corresponding clutch signal. For an adjustment of the clutch response on the driver's side, the analysis unit is associated with an input unit, for the actuation of which, on the driver's side, it is possible to shift between the first control mode and at least one second control mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Herbert MEYER, Andreas SCHIERGL, Clemens BUROW
  • Publication number: 20180257651
    Abstract: A monitor unit of a vehicle acquires an object left-right difference parameter corresponding to a command left-right difference parameter or corresponding to a measurement left-right difference parameter. The monitor unit compares the object left-right difference parameter and a first left-right difference threshold. If the object left-right difference parameter exceeds a first left-right difference threshold, the monitor unit limits the motive power of a first rotary electric machine and a second rotary electric machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Tetsuo Kitagawa
  • Publication number: 20180257652
    Abstract: A vehicle dynamics control system in a motor vehicle includes an electronic vehicle dynamics control unit which is connected to at least one drive control unit and is configured so as to: determine at least one setpoint slip or a setpoint slip corridor and an actual vehicle speed as a reference speed, and transmit the at least one setpoint slip or the setpoint slip corridor together with the reference speed to the at least one drive control unit. The drive control unit, in accordance with the transmitted values and by way of a function module, determines setpoint rotational speed values at a motor level and carries out a rotational speed control process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Torsten MUELLER, Thomas EBERL, Adreas BAIER, Marc ESPENHAIN
  • Publication number: 20180257653
    Abstract: In some examples, a controller detects a compromised condition of a component of a cargo transportation unit (CTU), determines a time of performing a next maintenance of the CTU, and controls adjustment of the component in response to detecting the compromised condition and based on the time of performing the next maintenance of the CTU.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Conrad Delbert Seaman, Stephen West, Prabhul Dev
  • Publication number: 20180257654
    Abstract: An engine is driven at an operating point with high engine efficiency to improve fuel economy. A vehicle control device according to the present invention controls a transmission ratio before increasing the engine rotation speed, and thereafter, engages the clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Naoyuki TASHIRO, Takashi OKADA
  • Publication number: 20180257655
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for predicting the braking or acceleration of a vehicle. The pedal change prediction system includes a braking sensor for providing braking data or an acceleration sensor pedal for providing acceleration data. The pedal change prediction system includes an electronic control unit that is configured to determine a rate of depression of the brake pedal or the acceleration pedal that is associated with a first braking force or a first acceleration force. The electronic control unit is configured to predict a triggering event that is either a braking event or an acceleration event. The electronic control unit predicts the triggering event based on the rate of depression of the brake pedal or the acceleration pedal and causes the vehicle to apply a second braking force or a second acceleration force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Nathan C. Westover
  • Publication number: 20180257656
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for operating a driveline of a hybrid vehicle that includes an internal combustion engine, an electric machine, and a transmission are described. In one example, regenerative torque and torque of an electronically controlled differential clutch are adjusted to increase utilization of a vehicle's kinetic energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Yanan Zhao, Joseph Jay Torres, Ming Lang Kuang, Lucian Lippok, Hai Yu
  • Publication number: 20180257657
    Abstract: Mobile machine characteristics and position are sensed to obtain an indication of the compactive effect of a mobile machine on a worksite. A soil compaction stress map is generated and control signals are generated, for controlling controlled systems, based upon the soil compaction stress map.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Sebastian Blank, Kristen A. Blank
  • Publication number: 20180257658
    Abstract: Electronic device using intelligent analysis for identifying characteristics of users located within a specific space. The electronic device includes a controller configured to identify each of a plurality of users located within a specific space, and generate a control command for controlling operation of at least one device associated with the specific space based on characteristic information related to each of the identified plurality of users.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Sungil CHO, Youngjun KIM, Yujune JANG
  • Publication number: 20180257659
    Abstract: A system for detecting abnormal driver behavior includes an input interface and a processor. The input interface is for receiving a sensor data of a vehicle. The processor is for determining a driving behavior based at least in part on the sensor data of the vehicle; determining whether the driving behavior is abnormal; and, in the event that the driving behavior is abnormal, indicating an abnormal driver behavior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Vincent Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20180257660
    Abstract: Self-driving and autonomous vehicles are very popular these days for scientific, technological, social, and economical reasons. In one aspect of this technology, path prediction and target classifications are main pillars and enablers for safety and mobility applications. Accurate Estimation of the lane assignment of the remote vehicle with respect to the host vehicle lane results in the accurate threat assessment. V2X and C-V2X are emerging technology for safety applications, and they cover relatively long range. Long range means more room for error in path prediction/target classification. Therefore, here, we offer an efficient path prediction and target classification algorithm to enable these technologies performing safety and mobility applications. The method fuses target vehicles data and host vehicle data in an efficient algorithm to perform this task. Other variations are also presented here.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Faroog Ibrahim, CHAUHAN TANUJ SHASHIKANTBHAI, Veeranna Ashokappa Halannanavar
  • Publication number: 20180257661
    Abstract: A self-driving vehicle (SDV) can analyze a live sensor view to autonomously operate acceleration, braking, and steering systems of the SDV along a current route. The SDV can identify an indeterminate object in the live sensor view, and encoding sensor data identifying the indeterminate object for transmission to a backend transport system over one or more networks. The SDV may then receive a resolution response from the backend transport system to resolve the indeterminate object, and cause the SDV to proceed in accordance with the resolution response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Benjamin Kroop, William Ross, Andrew Heine
  • Publication number: 20180257662
    Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a vehicle control technique that enables the safety of function substitution to be increased. This vehicle control device determines whether a substitution was successful by monitoring the operations which follow initiation of the substitution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tasuku ISHIGOOKA, Satoshi OTSUKA, Kohei SAKURAI
  • Publication number: 20180257663
    Abstract: A method for monitoring a controller for a vehicle includes determining configuration information associated with the vehicle and determining vehicle operating states associated with a plurality of conditions. A statistical analysis is executed to correlate a plurality of faults with the vehicle operating states and the configuration information associated with the vehicle. The plurality of faults in the controller can be isolated to one of a hardware fault or a software fault based upon the statistical analysis and the configuration information associated with the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Shengbing Jiang, Sandeep U. Menon, James K. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20180257664
    Abstract: A distributed system for monitoring and control of a vehicle includes a supervisory controller with a first computer readable storage media for monitoring and storing a plurality of operational parameters regarding a physical system of the vehicle. The supervisory controller communicates with a server via two different communications networks. Method steps are provided for characterizing and predicting functional details of a system state of the physical system using the model parameters and at least one operational parameter of the physical system, and for using values obtained by the server regarding a plurality of different vehicles in order to improve the monitoring and control of the vehicle. A method is also provided to determine and report any operational parameters miss a corresponding performance target. A method is also provided for changing the storage or transmission of operational parameters based on their relative importance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Donald James Remboski, Jacqueline A. Dedo, Dani Shafriri, Asi Biton, Arik Greenberger
  • Publication number: 20180257665
    Abstract: An automatic parking device includes a vehicle control unit configured to control a speed, steering of the vehicle, and a shift range of a transmission of the vehicle in order to park the vehicle, a reception unit configured to receive a driving operation by a driver of the vehicle during the automatic parking by the vehicle control unit, and a determination unit configured to determine whether or not the driving operation received by the reception unit satisfies a predetermined. override condition. The vehicle control unit stops the vehicle and sets the shift range of the transmission of the vehicle to a non-drive range in a case where it is determined by the determination unit that the driving operation satisfies the override condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shinya SANNODO
  • Publication number: 20180257666
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a controller that prompts a user to confirm a willingness to accept a reduced maximum acceleration or speed responsive to user confirmation of a desire to increase an electric drive range by a user selected amount. The controller further operates a propulsion system with the reduced maximum acceleration or speed to increase the electric drive range responsive to user confirmation of the willingness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Seth Anthony BRYAN, Bryan Michael BOLGER, Robert David HANCASKY, Angel Fernando PORRAS
  • Publication number: 20180257667
    Abstract: A self-driving vehicle includes a plurality of operation members for the driver to operate and a controller. The plurality of operation members includes a steering operation member, a brake operation member, and an accelerating operation member. The controller has, as control modes thereof, an automatic operation mode and a manual operation mode. The operation member that is predefined as a trigger for the shift from the automatic operation mode to the manual operation mode differs depending on states of the vehicle in the automatic operation mode. The self-driving vehicle enables the driver to shift the control mode from the automatic operation mode to the manual operation mode with a simple operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Yoshinori YOSHII, Takahiro NAKAMURA, Akihisa TOMINAGA, Nobuya ISHIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20180257668
    Abstract: A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on a user device that includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the processor such that the device is programmed to: send a trigger configuration file to a vehicle computer in a vehicle; receive an indication of a trigger from the vehicle computer; receive an input from a wearable device; and execute a task, based on the input and the trigger. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Basavaraj Tonshal, Yifan Chen, Kwaku O. Prakah-Asante, Padma Aiswarya Kolisetty, Hsin-hsiang Yang
  • Publication number: 20180257669
    Abstract: A vehicle computer is communicatively coupled to a portable computing device and is programmed to detect, in a vehicle sensor, a sound outside of the vehicle and to actuate, in the portable computing device, a haptic output based at least in part on the detected sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Omar Makke, Haysam M. Kadry
  • Publication number: 20180257670
    Abstract: A railway facility with high throughput loop track includes a series of adjacent parallel staging tracks connected to a main line to receive and depart trains, arranged in a path so that trains transverse around the railway facility. A balloon loop track, which includes a loading or unloading facility, is connected to the staging tracks loops and reverses the direction of the train so that upon completion of loading or unloading a train can depart or be re-staged without requiring repositioning or turning of locomotives. Staging tracks are included for staging both arriving and departing trains. In alternative embodiments transload tracks and at-grade access roads allow storage and retrieval of cargo to interior space within the staging tracks, and an escape track allows expedited exit of trains from the balloon loop track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: HDR, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Weber, Kurt W. Reichelt
  • Publication number: 20180257671
    Abstract: An aerial rope tramway or slope hoist system suitable for use in an open pit mine or similar application. According to an embodiment, the aerial slope hoist system comprises an upper station and a lower station. The upper station is configured in proximity to a surface section of the open pit and the lower station is configured at a lower section of the open pit mine. According to an embodiment, the upper station comprises first and second towers and the lower station comprises first and second towers. The towers are configured to support respective ends of first and second suspension cable assemblies. Each of the suspension cable assemblies is configured to support and carry a trolley or skip. The system comprises a hoist configured to move the respective trolleys in opposite directions. The towers for the lower station are configured to be moveable and provide the capability to break down the system and/or lengthen or reduce the span of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: TIMBERLAND EQUIPMENT LMITED
    Inventors: BENJAMIN MATTHEW FONG, CLIFFORD JORDAN TRACHSEL
  • Publication number: 20180257672
    Abstract: An impact detection device for a system for locking the kingpin of a semitrailer on a railway unit includes a rigid connecting piece connected to a kingpin receiving structure and a connecting shaft connecting the rigid connecting piece to the railway unit, mounted on the railway unit, received with the ability to pivot in an oblong provided in the rigid connecting piece and capable of moving in the oblong. The device also includes a shear pin that prevents the connecting shaft from moving in the oblong and which breaks in the event of an impact so as to allow the connecting shaft to move in the oblong, a bypass pipe mounted as a bypass on the general pipe of the railway unit, and a cutoff tool secured to the railway unit, which cuts off the bypass pipe when the shear pin is broken and a connecting shaft is moving in the oblong.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Andre, Nicolas Kretz, Jacques Ober
  • Publication number: 20180257673
    Abstract: A movable side wall and opening/closing mechanism for railroad boxcars, comprising a side wall assembly (1), an end-portion opening/closing mechanism (2), a hinged rod assembly (3), a lateral door central clamping device (4), a upper transmission shaft assembly (5), a lower transmission shaft assembly (6), a upper track assembly (7) and a lower track assembly (8); upon loading/unloading cargo, the movable side wall can be opened further, so as to allow multiple forklifts of any tonnage on the ground to load/unload cargo to/from any positions of a carriage; the hinged rod assembly (3) and the central clamping device (4) are provided to keep the movable side wall reliably closed in order to ensure security and self-locking during transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: CSR YANGZE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Donghua XU, Qiangjun JIANG, Haitao LIU, Fengwei LIU, Wenliang LIU, Chuanfeng JING, Baolei WANG, Jinfa ZHANG, Xunqi ZHANG, Huanyun LIU
  • Publication number: 20180257674
    Abstract: The door device is provided with an opening frame defining an opening and a door for operating between a first door position and a second door position, the door making contact with the opening frame when at the first door position, the door being separated from the opening frame when at the second door position. A movable receiving portion constituted by at least part of the opening frame operates so that the opening is larger when the door is at the second door position than when the door is at the first door position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Genta SAKAKI, Hitoshi AKIYAMA
  • Publication number: 20180257675
    Abstract: A friction shoe for a railway car truck is provided. The railway truck comprises two parallel side frames, a suspension spring assembly supported by the side frames, and a bolster transversely mounted between the side frames and supported by the suspension spring assembly. Each side frame has at least one vertical support face, and the bolster has at least one sloped support face. The friction shoe comprises a bottom base engaging and supported by a support spring, and a sloped wall engaging the sloped support face of the bolster. The present invention includes geometric improvements in friction shoe design which prevent bolster side wall wear and helps eliminate the possibility of the friction shoe's wear on the bolster side wall from interfering with its normal movement over its service life.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: John Coseglia
  • Publication number: 20180257676
    Abstract: A friction shoe for a railway car truck is provided. The railway truck comprises two parallel side frames, a suspension spring assembly supported by the side frames, and a bolster transversely mounted between the side frames and supported by the suspension spring assembly. Each side frame has at least one vertical support face, and the bolster has at least one sloped support face. The friction shoe comprises a bottom base engaging and supported by a pair of support springs, and a sloped wall engaging the sloped support face of the bolster. The bottom base includes a cylindrical spring lug that has a center opening that extends through the spring lug. The bottom surface of the spring lug is flat and smooth and is designed to engage with and provides the ability to use an additional concentrically nested support spring. The additional spring increases the force between the vertical support face of the wedge and the vertical wear plate of the side frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: John Coseglia
  • Publication number: 20180257677
    Abstract: A friction shoe for a railway car truck is provided. The railway truck comprises two parallel side frames, a suspension spring assembly supported by the side frames, and a bolster transversely mounted between the side frames and supported by the suspension spring assembly. Each side frame has at least one vertical support face, and the bolster has at least one sloped support face. The friction shoe comprises a sloped wall engaging the sloped support face of the bolster, a vertical wall engaging the side frame vertical support face, and a bottom base engaging and supported by a suspension control spring group which comprises three concentrically nested coil springs which provide a normal force on the column wear plate of between 3000 and 5000 pounds in the static empty railway car truck condition and between 7,500 and 12,000 pounds force under the static loaded railway car truck condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Amsted Rail Company, Inc.
    Inventors: John Coseglia, Aleynikov Igor Arkadyevich, Ralph H. Schorr, PE
  • Publication number: 20180257678
    Abstract: A secondary suspension system for a railcar comprises a chassis, a primary spring, a levelling actuator, a first hydraulic circuit and a secondary spring. The levelling actuator is adapted to be connected to the carbody. A piston shoulder, located at the lower portion of the piston and below an opening in the chassis, reaches farther than the opening so as to be capable of catching the chassis. The secondary spring is at least partially positioned underneath the piston shoulder. The piston is operative to adopt a high position inside the body under a pressure of a hydraulic fluid injected in a lower chamber below a piston head. This makes the piston shoulder abut against the chassis, thereby compressing the primary spring between the body and the chassis without compressing the secondary suspension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Mario MONETTE, Louis DUMOULIN, Benoit LUSSIER
  • Publication number: 20180257679
    Abstract: A bolster system and method of balancing a locomotive on a bolster system is provided. The bolster system is configured such that weld seams interconnect the locomotive to the bolster, and the weld seams are oriented such that when the truck or locomotive impacts another device on the rail track, the weld seams experience a shearing force along the lengths of the weld seams. In addition, prior to welding, scales such as hydraulic jacks with gauges may be used to center and balance a locomotive on a bolster. In one embodiment, four hydraulic jacks elevate the truck, bolster, and locomotive, and the locomotive is repositioned on the bolster until the hydraulic jacks have substantially similar measures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Frank Wegner Donnelly
  • Publication number: 20180257680
    Abstract: A method of producing an electrode-equipped plate spring of a railcar bogie includes: a resin removing step of partially irradiating a surface of fiber-reinforced resin, prepared by including electrically conductive fibers in resin, of a plate spring with a laser beam to partially remove the resin and partially expose the electrically conductive fibers; and an electrode forming step of attaching an electrode to an exposed region formed by partially exposing the electrically conductive fibers of the fiber-reinforced resin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takehiro NISHIMURA, Yousuke TSUMURA, Masayuki MITSUE, Teruhisa NAKAOKA, Fumihide INAMURA, Katsuyuki KAWASHIMA, Akira TODOROKI, Yusuke NISHIO
  • Publication number: 20180257681
    Abstract: The traditional three piece railway freight truck prevents the wheel sets from achieving radial alignment to curves by the rigid side frames restraining the wheelsets. The side frames also constrain the wheelset from radial aligning to curves by the limited gap between the wheelset bearing and the side frame pedestal jaws. The present invention opens the side frame pedestal jaws to allow the wheel sets to yaw and align radially to curves. The side frame is supported on wheel sets by elastomeric pads and bearing adapters. The present invention utilizes the elastomeric pad stiffness to compress in pitch motion that allow the wheel set to move in an arc forward or backward in the open jaws of the side frame. The elastomeric pad stiffness also allows the wheelset to twist the pads allowing the wheelset to radially align to the curve. The pads elastic stiffness is sufficient to return when the wheelset is align to straight track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Steven Wike
  • Publication number: 20180257682
    Abstract: A vehicle system having processors configured to determine permissible regions of a trip where the vehicle system is permitted for automatic control. The permissible regions of the trip are determined based on one or more of parameters of a route, a trend of operating parameters of the vehicle system, or a trip plan that designates one or more operational settings of the vehicle system at different locations, different times, or different distances along a route. The processors also are configured to control transition of the vehicle system between manual control and the automatic control in the permissible regions by alerting an operator of the vehicle system, automatically switching between the manual control and the automatic control, or modifying conditions on which the transition occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: James D. Brooks, Harry Mathews, JR.
  • Publication number: 20180257683
    Abstract: A system includes one or more processors configured to obtain operating parameters of a subsystem of a vehicle that is configured to travel along a route during a trip. The one or more processors are configured to generate a digital twin of the subsystem based on the operating parameters, and to receive simulated performance data generated by execution of the digital twin with a designated model of the subsystem. The one or more processors are further configured to obtain field performance data of the subsystem monitored by sensors onboard the vehicle during the trip, and to determine a performance composite index of the subsystem of the vehicle based on a variance between the simulated performance data and the field performance data. The one or more processors are also configured to control the vehicle during the trip or a subsequent trip based on the performance composite index.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Suresh Govindappa, Manibabu Pippalla
  • Publication number: 20180257684
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rail vehicle including an image generation system for capturing a space outside the rail vehicle. The image generation system includes four image generation devices each of which, during operation of the image generation system, generates two-dimensional images of the space. A first a second of the four image generation devices are disposed at a first distance from one another on the rail vehicle and form a first stereo pair, which captures a first shared portion of the space from different viewing angles. A third and a fourth of the four image generation devices are disposed at a second distance from one another on the rail vehicle and form a second stereo pair, which detects a second shared portion of the space from different viewing angles. The first shared portion the space and the second shared portion of the space have a shared spatial region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Fischer, Gerald Newesely
  • Publication number: 20180257685
    Abstract: A railroad track circuit determines occupancy status of a portion of a railroad track, and includes: a track including first and second rails; a transmitter including first and second connection terminals to generate a voltage between connection terminals; and first and second receiver units, each including first and second measurement terminals, the first and second receiver units measuring voltage between first and second measurement terminals. The output connection terminals of the transmitter connect to the respective rails at a first connection location, using first and second cables. The first measurement terminal of the first receiver unit is connected to the first rail at a second connection location, using a third cable and the first measurement terminal of the second receiver unit is connected to the first rail at a third location, using a fourth cable, the second and third locations forming respectively first and second boundaries of the track circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas NAGRODSKY, Jeffrey FRIES
  • Publication number: 20180257686
    Abstract: A wheelbarrow (10) including a receptacle (12) comprising a tub for carrying a load of material; a wheel assembly facilitating movement of the wheelbarrow; a handle for controlling operation of the wheelbarrow; and a plurality of removable compartments (18, 19) located within the receptacle (12), each for containing a portion of the load of material. The receptacle (12) and each removable compartment (18, 19) are configured to interact with each other so as to, in use, hinder movement of each comportment (18, 19) relative to the receptacle (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Michael PAINO, Paul Edward DAVIES
  • Publication number: 20180257687
    Abstract: A transport means (N) includes at least one lower support (1) on which at least two cylinders, in which a material which can be a compressed gas is stored, are placed by being stacked on the top of one another; at least one body (3) having one end connected to said lower support (1); at least one first steering element (2a) disposed on the body (3) for steering the cylinders during transport, at least two motion elements (4) connected to said body (3) for providing the movement of the transport means (N), the transport means (N) including at least one thrust mechanism which allows the topmost cylinder to move closer toward the lower support (1) such that the cylinders stacked on the top of one another do not come apart during transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: AYGAZ ANONIM SIRKETI
    Inventors: Emrah BIRSEN, Can TIKIROGLU, Ali Kemal EKER, Atakan GURLEYEN
  • Publication number: 20180257688
    Abstract: Examples of systems and methods for locating movable objects such as carts (e.g., shopping carts) are disclosed. Such systems and methods can use dead reckoning techniques to estimate the current position of the movable object. Various techniques for improving accuracy of position estimates are disclosed, including compensation for various error sources involving the use of magnetometer and accelerometer, and using vibration analysis to derive wheel rotation rates. Various techniques utilize characteristics of the operating environment in conjunction with or in lieu of dead reckoning techniques, including characteristic of environment such as ground texture, availability of signals from radio frequency (RF) transmitters including precision fix sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Scott J. Carter, Stephen E. Hannah, Jesse M. James, Narayanan V. Ramanathan, Robert M. Harling, Jack Johnson
  • Publication number: 20180257689
    Abstract: A method for people interaction, the method comprising setting positions in a space; materializing a path along the positions; and guiding a mobile platform along the path. A combination, comprising a cart, a controller, and a guiding unit is provided wherein the guiding unit comprises sensors configured to detect a path laid in a space along a succession of positions; and wherein the controller sets a direction of the cart by acting on the guiding unit in response to signals from the sensors as the cart moves along the path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventor: GUY LEFEBVRE
  • Publication number: 20180257690
    Abstract: A front fork assembly of a snow bike is disclosed having left and right legs, each having an upper leg portion and a lower leg portion. The left leg upper and lower leg portions are linearly movable relative to each other. A right leg has an upper leg portion and a lower leg portion, the right leg upper and lower leg portions are linearly movable relative to each other. A ski mount has a lower end for coupling to a ski and an upper end for coupling to the left and right leg. A linear force element is coupled to the left and right legs with a first end adjacent the first ends of the forks and seconds ends coupled to the ski, the linear force element has a different linear force characteristic than the left and right legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Applicant: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Allen M. Mangum, Cody L. Telford
  • Publication number: 20180257691
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a fixed member. The fixed member includes a grip portion located adjacent to (in the vicinity of) the steering wheel. The grip portion extends from the lower side to the upper side of the steering wheel when the steering wheel is viewed in the direction along the rotation shaft of the steering wheel. Also, the steering wheel is rotatable independently of the fixed member. According to this vehicle, the driver can react instantly to the shift to the manual operation mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Yoshinori YOSHII, Haruhito TAKAHASHI
  • Publication number: 20180257692
    Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a steering column that includes a steering member articulated in rotation to a support base intended to be fixed with respect to the chassis of a vehicle, a clamp so as to be able to lock the steering member on the support base, first blocking shapes borne by a mobile clamping element, and second blocking shapes borne by a sheet-metal plate blocked against the support base. The first blocking shapes are able, during locking, to come and engage between the second blocking shapes so as to block the rotation of the steering member with respect to the support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: September 13, 2018
    Inventors: Mickael SAUQUET, William CHARVET, Nicolas GENET