Patents Issued in October 18, 2018
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Publication number: 20180297466Abstract: An electric propulsion system and methods are described that include an internal combustion engine coupled to a generator to provide power to one or more electric motors. Configurations are shown that include excitation control of power from the generator. Configurations are shown that include a hydraulic braking system. Configurations are shown that include an active suspension system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Terry Anderson, Robert S. Cornelius
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Publication number: 20180297467Abstract: A housing for a fuel filler opening or charge port of a vehicle is disclosed herein. The housing includes an attachment member integrated into a wall of the housing. The attachment member includes a flexible tab having at least one interface member and at least one overmold attachment surface. An overmold is positioned adjacent to the attachment member and at least partially covers the at least one overmold attachment surface. The overmold provides a closeout around the attachment member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Matthew M. Stack, Omair Mustafa
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Publication number: 20180297468Abstract: A support structure of a vehicle drive system unit includes a unit case having a plurality of case members provided with abutting portions at axial opening ends, the abutting portions axially abutted against and bolt-fastened to each other to integrally couple the plurality of case members, one of the plurality of case members as a fixing case member being fixed via a supporting member to a body-side supporting portion. In the support structure, a reinforcing stiffener is disposed on the outside of the unit case so as to couple at least one of the abutting portion of the fixing case member and the abutting portion of another case member abutted against and bolt-fastened to the abutting portion of the fixing case member, and the supporting member or the body-side supporting portion to which the supporting member is fixed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Noritaka Nakajima, Hiroshi Kawanishi
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Publication number: 20180297469Abstract: The present disclosure discloses an agitator truck, and the agitator truck includes a frame; a first axle assembly; a second axle assembly, where the second axle assembly and the first axle assembly are disposed along a front-rear direction in a spaced manner, the second axle assembly includes two vehicle axle assemblies that are disposed along the front-rear direction in a spaced manner, each of the vehicle axle assemblies includes an axle case assembly, the axle case assembly includes an axle case component and two half axles, and the two half axles are located inside the axle case component; at least one of the two vehicle axle assemblies is an electric drive axle assembly, the electric drive axle assembly further includes an electric power assembly, the electric power assembly includes a power motor, a transmission, and a differential, the transmission has a transmission case, the power motor is fixed to the transmission case, the differential is supported on the transmission case, the differential is locType: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: HUIYUE LIU, CHUPENG QUAN, JIAN HE
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Publication number: 20180297470Abstract: A lamp for a vehicle includes a lamp module configured to project an image to a road surface, at least one controller, and a computer-readable medium coupled to the at least one controller having stored thereon instructions which, when executed by the at least one controller, cause the at least one controller to perform operations. The operations include receiving vehicle driving information, and controlling the lamp module to project at least one of a state indicator or an operation indicator based on the vehicle driving information. The state indicator includes a projection image corresponding to first information that conveys a state related to the vehicle to an occupant of the vehicle, and the operation indicator includes a projection image corresponding to a user action to be performed by the occupant of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Ana KIM
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Publication number: 20180297471Abstract: The disclosure related to a system to support handling of an object located within a passenger interior of a motor vehicle and not connected to the motor vehicle. The system has a sensor unit to detect a distance of the object to a storage area available within the passenger interior. An evaluation unit receives and processes sensor signals generated by the sensor unit. A signaling unit that can be controlled using the evaluation unit to emit optic, acoustic and/or haptic signals within the passenger interior to determine if a hand of the driver moves towards the storage area and activate the signaling unit if the hand moves towards the storage area and if the hand is located, for a predetermined period of time, within the storage area of a predetermined size.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Frederic STEFAN, Uwe GUSSEN, Christoph ARNDT
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Publication number: 20180297472Abstract: A Hybrid-Lite system for use with a vehicle includes a prime mover, an electric power system, and auxiliaries. The prime mover comprises an internal combustion engine. The electric power system is configured to be driven by the combustion engine to produce electric energy for powering the auxiliaries.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Adel Gergis
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Publication number: 20180297473Abstract: Safety module for a charging station for electric vehicles having at least one processor, a sensor input, and a switching output. In order to be able to ensure the safety of a charging station independently of a charging process, the processor monitors at least one measured sensor value at the at least one sensor input independently of a charging process, and when the measured sensor value at the sensor input exceeds a triggering criterion, the processor outputs a switch-off signal at the switching output.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: innogy SEInventors: Stefan Helnerus, Daniel Heßelmann, Sven Jundel, Jürgen Waffner
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SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MAINTAINING HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY CHARGING WITH DETECTED AUXILIARY BATTERY FAULT
Publication number: 20180297474Abstract: A system using a computer to be configured to perform particular actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination installed. One aspect includes a system, programmed to receive a fault signal from an auxiliary battery sensor. The system also determines if a low voltage set point is greater than the main battery voltage, and sends an open switch signal to a battery isolation switch if the low voltage set point is greater than the main battery voltage value. The system will send an auxiliary set point signal to an auxiliary battery charger to maintain a low voltage. The system will receive a current signal from an auxiliary battery sensor to indicate an auxiliary battery current value. The system also determines if the auxiliary battery current is above a maximum current value, and send a disable auxiliary battery maintenance signal to the auxiliary battery charger.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Josephine S. Lee, Cathleen Tistle, Jeff Raymond Mohr, James Brian Keyse, Jeremy L. Russell -
Publication number: 20180297475Abstract: An autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle is provided that is capable of braking itself without a driver depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle has a powertrain that includes an engine, a transmission, and a motor with a connected battery to provide regenerative braking capabilities. Friction brakes are provided to apply when necessary, such as when the battery has a high state of charge and further regenerative braking would overcharge the battery. The braking may be activated in response to a sensor detecting a distance to an object in front of the vehicle. A vehicle controller is programmed to automatically control amounts of regenerative braking and friction braking during a braking event based on a comparison between a regenerative torque limit of the powertrain and a desired brake torque over the brake event to safely brake the vehicle during the brake event.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Yanan ZHAO, Ming Lang KUANG, Zheng LIU
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Publication number: 20180297476Abstract: A voltage quality module (VQM) function and a solar power generation function are integrated by sharing a single voltage converter (VC) within the electrical system of an automotive vehicle with an electric-start internal combustion engine. The cost of adding solar power generating capabilities to vehicles, the packaging complexities of the systems, and the number of added components are all decreased. The VC can be a DC-DC converter in a boost mode or a buck mode. A switching circuit selectably couples the VC between a main battery and an accessory bus or to between a solar panel and an auxiliary battery. A VC controller regulating a VC output using the main battery to stabilize an accessory bus voltage when in an engine crank mode and otherwise regulating the VC output to match an auxiliary battery voltage using the solar panel output.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Hadi Malek, Daniel Boston, Jacob Mathews, James A. Lathrop
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Publication number: 20180297477Abstract: An electric vehicle (EV) charging station for fast charging (e.g. 5 to 15 minutes) an electric vehicle (EV). The EV charging station can be configured to charge multiple EVs and multiple conventional vehicles at the same time. The EV charging station can include a power source, an electric reservoir receiving power from the power source, an AC to DC power converter for receiving AC power from the power source and converting the AC power to DC power for supplying DC power to the electric reservoir, an EV charger receiving DC power from the electric reservoir; and a first DC to DC converter receiving DC power from the electrical reservoir and converting the DC power to DC power suitable for charging the electrical vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: THE NOCO COMPANYInventor: James Richard STANFIELD
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Publication number: 20180297478Abstract: The present application relates to an electric car and an active discharging module, a driving apparatus, and an electric drive system thereof. said active discharging module comprises a discharging subcircuit, which is connected in parallel with the DC-link capacitor of the electric car, and a first switch, which is connected to an actuating apparatus of the electric car and the discharging subcircuit respectively. The discharging subcircuit comprises a discharging resistor and a power switching transistor which are connected in series, wherein the first switch may turn off the power switching transistor after the actuating apparatus is turned on, and turn on the power switching transistor after the actuating apparatus is turned off. Said driving apparatus comprises any one of the above active discharging modules. Said electric drive system comprises any one of the above driving apparatuses. Said electric car comprises any one of the above electric drive system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Yinshan WANG, Wencheng HONG, Zhaohui ZHUANG, Liwen XU
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Publication number: 20180297479Abstract: A charging device and a method for charging an electrical energy storage device of a vehicle, with a DC converter for converting an input DC voltage into an output DC voltage. A winding of an electrical machine is part of the DC converter. The winding has at least two coils. A control unit is designed for the purpose of switching the at least two coils electrically in series for the charging of the electrical energy storage device. The at least two coils form an inductance of the DC converter.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: AUDI AGInventors: Nico SCHOBESS, Matthias HARTMANN, Mohamed HAMMAM
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Publication number: 20180297480Abstract: An electric control system for an electric vehicle operable in a plurality of modes. The control system includes an electric motor having a plurality of motor coils, an energy storage device providing energy to the electric control system, transistor modules selectively coupling the electric motor to the energy storage device, a connector selectively coupling to an AC power source, a controllable switching device configured to selectively couple the connector to the electric motor; and a microcontroller controlling the switching device to couple the connector to at least one of the motor coils during a detected charging mode, and control one or more of the plurality of transistor modules to couple the motor coil to the energy storage device during the detected charging mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Jorge Guillermo GEBHART
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Publication number: 20180297481Abstract: A method for charging a traction energy storage device of an at least partially electrically driven vehicle includes detecting an interruption of a charging process, and determining a parameter which represents a reason for the interruption of the charging process. The method also includes performing at least one of the following measures as a function of the determined parameter: continuing the charging process in an unchanged or changed fashion, and performing a specific signaling process.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Alexander AUGST
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Publication number: 20180297482Abstract: A system for controlling a charging process of a vehicle. A control device that is designed for the purpose of verifying, based on theft information, whether the vehicle has been reported as stolen and to control a charging process of the vehicle in dependence on this verification. The vehicle itself includes the control device. Furthermore, a vehicle having such a control device as well as a method for controlling a charging process of a vehicle is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: AUDI AGInventors: Michael SPÄHN, Jens SCHULZ, Andreas SCHLAUDRAFF
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Publication number: 20180297483Abstract: A method of controlling an electric vehicle operating on a route includes receiving at a first time, at a control unit of the electric vehicle, data indicative of a condition of a stretch of the route that the electric vehicle will traverse at a second time later than the first time. The method further includes varying a cooling of a battery system of the electric vehicle, using the control unit, based on the received data.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Proterra Inc.Inventors: Brian J. PEVEAR, Robert CLIPPARD, David LAI, Dustin GRACE, John GERBER
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Publication number: 20180297484Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a control apparatus for an electric vehicle that can achieve an effect of eliminating or reducing a vibration regardless of a rotational direction of a wheel. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first vibration damping control torque calculated by a first calculation method based on a signal of a wheel speed sensor when an electric vehicle moves forward, or a second vibration damping control torque calculated by a second calculation method different from the first calculation method when the electric vehicle moves backward is selectively output.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Keisuke SUZUKI, Satoshi KANEKO
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Publication number: 20180297485Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having an infinitely variable transmission (IVT) having a ball planetary variator (CVP), providing a smooth and controlled operation. In some embodiments, the control system implements a rollback prevention sub-module. The rollback prevention sub-module is adapted to receive a number of signals, for example, a signal indicative of a transmission output shaft speed and a signal indicative of a commanded CVP shift actuator position. In some embodiments, the rollback prevention sub-module determines a correction value to be applied to the commanded CVP shift actuator position. The correction value is based at least in part on the transmission output shaft speed signal. In some embodiments, the rollback prevention sub-module is adapted to monitor and determine the deactivation of a CVP shift actuator.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: DANA LIMITEDInventors: JEFFREY M. DAVID, CHARLES B. LOHR, III
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Publication number: 20180297486Abstract: A roller coaster with a vehicle rolling under gravity along a track defining a ride path. The vehicle includes a chassis coupled to the track to roll on one or more surfaces of the track, and the vehicle includes a passenger compartment mounted on the chassis. The coaster also includes a compartment positioning mechanism that operates to move, such as with yaw, the passenger compartment between a first position in a passenger load/unload section of the ride path and one or more differing positions in the gravity-based ride section of the ride path. The coaster includes a power supply assembly with a charging element mounted on the track. The power supply assembly includes an onboard energy storage mounted on the vehicle that is charged by the charging element. The onboard energy storage powers the compartment positioning mechanism to move the passenger compartment between the first and second positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: DEREK LEE HOWARD, PEYTON B. BUHLER
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Publication number: 20180297487Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure provides a seatback fastening structure for fastening a seatback to a body of a vehicle. A body bracket includes a main body portion covered by a seat bracket. The main body portion includes a receiving surface, an upper surface extending from a vertical upper end of the receiving surface, and a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface extending from both ends of the receiving surface in a width direction. The seat bracket includes a base portion covering the receiving surface, a retaining portion retaining the upper surface from vertically above, a first side wall and a second side wall respectively abutting on the first lateral surface and the second lateral surface. The main body portion and the base portion are fastened with a bolt.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Yuji GOTO
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Publication number: 20180297488Abstract: A method for adjusting a seat of a vehicle is disclosed. The method includes the step of capturing loading data of the seat, evaluating the loading data to determine a control dataset for periodically adjusting the seat based on the control dataset.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Jeroen Lem, Philipp Wolf, Nikica Hennes
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Publication number: 20180297489Abstract: A vehicle includes a front seating assembly and a rear seating assembly. An occupant sensor senses occupancy of the front seating assembly. A proximity sensor senses an object in a footwell behind the front seating assembly. A rear door sensor senses the opening of a rear door. A controller activates an actuator to move the front seating assembly forward based on the sensed occupancy, a sensed object, and sensed door opening. A method of controlling a vehicle seating assembly includes the steps of: sensing the front seating assembly is unoccupied with the occupant sensor; detecting in the footwell behind the front seating assembly with the proximity sensor; sensing a rear door position with the door sensor; and moving the front seating assembly forward when the front seating assembly is unoccupied, an object is in the footwell, and the rear door is in an open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Hubert Szawarski, Arlindo Rocha, Mark A. Cuddihy, Jialiang Le
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Publication number: 20180297490Abstract: A method for manufacturing a seat cushion material, the seat cushion material including a front layer part and a back layer part having a back side surface, the method including: preparing for molding the seat cushion by attaching the back layer part to an upper die having an upper cavity surface; molding the seat cushion material by adding foamed resin raw material forming on a lower cavity surface of a lower die and then by closing the upper die to which the back layer part is attached, the lower cavity surface being provided with a plurality of protrusions which is configured to be brought into contact with a seating surface side of the back layer part and press the back layer part against the upper cavity surface when the upper die to which the back layer part is attached is closed; and demolding the molded seat cushion material.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yoshiyuki MURATA, Tomohiro SAKASHITA, Kensuke INUZUKA
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Publication number: 20180297491Abstract: A seat slide adjuster suited to weight-saving has a structure in which two rows of engaged portions are provided at a predetermined interval in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of a locking plate that constitutes a locking mechanism, and the engaged portions engage with locking tooth parts on both sides of a lower rail during locking. Force that works between the locking plate and the lower rail acts on the locking tooth parts on both sides in a well-balanced manner and is not biased to either side. As a result, the durability of the components thereof can be improved. In addition, because two rows of hole portions in the locking plate engage, rattling of the locking plate is not likely to occur.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: DELTA KOGYO CO., LTDInventors: Jun FUKUDA, Katsuhoro INOUE
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ADJUSTMENT ARRANGEMENT FOR AN ADJUSTING DEVICE OF A VEHICLE SEAT AND A METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SAME
Publication number: 20180297492Abstract: An adjustment arrangement for an adjustment device of a vehicle seat comprises a transverse tube and at least one connecting part connected fixedly in terms of rotation to the transverse tube. The transverse tube is inserted into a bore in the connecting part.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Hosen SULAIMAN, Jörg VÖLLMECKE, Markus SCHENKE, Michael SCHAPER, Jens WITT -
Publication number: 20180297493Abstract: A height adjustment device of a motor vehicle seat and a method for the production thereof includes a transverse pipe and a pair of links. The transverse pipe has two end-side bearing regions which merge in a central region having a larger diameter and each link rests on a bearing region of the transverse pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Hosen SULAIMAN, Jörg VÖLLMECKE, Markus SCHENKE, Michael SCHAPER, Jens WITT
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Publication number: 20180297494Abstract: A damper is arranged between the seat backrest and the seat base. This damper applies a resistance to seat backrest movement, especially movement from the vertical position to the folded position. The damper includes a pin and profile mounted on the seat backrest and seat base respectively, or vice versa. The pin and profile slide against each other during movement of the seat backrest relative to the seat base. The shape, size, material, and/or the surface characteristics of the pin and profile determine the resistance to movement of the seat backrest. These parameters of the pin and profile can be varied, especially along different portions of the profile to apply the desired resistance at different angular positions of the seat backrest with respect to the seat base.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Kannan STANZ, Keith ZIEGLER, Ornela ZEKAVICA, Vasile BOZINTAN
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Publication number: 20180297495Abstract: The present invention is directed to child safety seats, and more particularly to a harness or belt tensioning indicator for a child safety seat harness system. The tension indicator includes a body portion for receiving a belt, harness or webbing. The tension indicator also includes a sliding indicator that is capable of moving from a first, unactuated position to a second, actuated position when the belt, harness or webbing that is received in the body portion is tensioned from a first tension to a second, correct tension.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Chad Glerum
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Publication number: 20180297496Abstract: A restraint system includes a seatback having a top end portion; a retainer attached to the top end portion; a tether attachment bracket movable between a first position retained by the retainer and a second position below the first position along the seatback; and a spring coupled to the seatback and the tether attachment bracket and biasing the tether attachment bracket to the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Kevin Michael Pline
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Publication number: 20180297497Abstract: A device for allowing a user to ride in a vehicle is provided. The device may include: a seat unit having one or more portions of foam materials; one or more accessory units to support the functionality of the seat unit; and one or more seat configurations to attach the seat unit to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Rob VanPay
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Publication number: 20180297498Abstract: An electrical heating assembly (1), in particular for use in a heatable seat device, comprises a plurality of heating wires (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) and a support structure (8) adapted to fix the heating wires (11, 12, 13, 14, 15). The heating wires (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) are arranged to form a plurality of hot points (10), a respective hot point (10) being defined by a circular area of 6 mm in diameter in which there are present at least three sections of heating wire (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) which are not interconnected to each other within the area of the hot point (10).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2015Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Kongsberg Automotive ABInventors: Mattias Persson, Daniel Josefsson
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Publication number: 20180297499Abstract: A headrest comprising a mounting frame on a backrest of a seat, a mounting structure for a loudspeaker, the structure being associated in the upper portion of the frame, the loudspeaker associated with the structure, a block of elastically compressible padding material covering the structure, the block being provided with a conduit configured to allow the sound emitted by the loudspeaker to propagate, a covering cover fitted over the block, the cover being provided with an orifice positioned facing the conduit, a grating for covering the orifice, the grating comprising a peripheral overhang covering a peripheral strip of the cover extending at the periphery of the orifice, a thickness of the padding material extending in alignment with the strip, the headrest further comprising a washer configured to stiffen the strip, the washer having an internal periphery of geometry analogous to that of the orifice, the overhang extending facing the washer.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Franck Bieven, David Ganier
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Publication number: 20180297500Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for a console assembly for a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a console structure and a movable structure that is supported for movement in and out from the console structure. Additionally, the console assembly includes a cup holder structure that is supported by the movable structure. The cup holder structure includes a cup holder that is supported for movement by the movable structure between a retracted position and an extended position. The cup holder is configured to remain substantially in the retracted position as the movable structure moves between a first position and a second position. The cup holder is configured to move between the retracted position and the extended position as the movable structure moves between the second position and a third position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: GURNEK SINGH, THOMAS HALLMAN, SCOTT J. FAST
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Publication number: 20180297501Abstract: A trailer for raising and lowering a load including a lifting frame and a base frame configured to secure the load, where a rearward portion of the base frame is rotatably connected at a rear hinge point to the lifting frame. The base frame and the load are raised and lowered based on the tension of a cable attached at one end to the base frame. The tension of the cable is adjusted by a winch attached to the lifting frame. The trailer is configured to allow for an individual operator to raise and lower the load without requiring the assistance of other personnel or facilities.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Kirk Studer
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Publication number: 20180297502Abstract: A carrier system and method for assisting in handling cargo of a vehicle. A carrier container includes an interior storage space surrounded by a front side facing the rear of the vehicle, rear, left, right, and bottom sides, and an open top that allows access to the interior storage space with a lid that closes and opens the top. A carrier support structure mounted to the carrier container is inserted into the hitch of the vehicle and holds the top surface of the container flush with the cargo bed of the vehicle. The lid is opened to deploy a ramp stored inside which is anchored to the container so that it is flush with the top surface of the container and reaches the ground. The lid is closed and a bridge plate commonly hinged with the lid is deployed over any gap between the cargo bed and the container top, providing a continuous surface between the cargo bed and the ground for use by pets for ingress and egress of the vehicle and for handling cargo.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Theodore J. Keck
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Publication number: 20180297503Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a method and system for blending multi-component granular compositions such as proppant used in hydraulic fracturing in well drilling. The system includes the control and management of an on-site storage system for each of the components, regulating the delivery of specified quantities of each component to a well site, and coordinating the flow of materials into and out of the blender.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: Solaris Oilfield Site Services Operating LLCInventors: Tamara Hughes, Terry McIver, John Cunningham, William Vaughn Managan, II, Joe Daniel Matkowski
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Publication number: 20180297504Abstract: Utilities (e.g., apparatuses, systems, methods, etc.) for use in loading power equipment such as log splitting apparatuses onto cargo trailers or the like in manners that increase the number of assembled log splitting apparatuses that can be loaded onto the cargo trailers (or otherwise result in more efficient loading of assembled log splitting apparatuses onto the cargo trailers) while facilitating assembled presentation of the log splitting apparatuses after unloading from the cargo trailer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Daniel Banjo, Benjamin Zywicki
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Publication number: 20180297505Abstract: The exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to methods for operating a transport system, which have a large number of transport mechanism and means. The invention further relates to a corresponding transport system.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: AUDI AGInventors: Vladimir IDELEVITCH, Christina FENDT, Sebastian SCHINDLER, Maximilian ERTL, Stephan BEUTLER, Daniel BUDNIK, Frank HEHNE, Simon REUSCHENBACH, Arne BRAMFELD
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Publication number: 20180297506Abstract: A driving assistance system for a vehicle has a longer-distance sensor device for determining longer-distance information between a vehicle and an obstacle, and a shorter-distance sensor device for determining shorter-distance information between the vehicle and the obstacle. A dual-mode light emitting diode (LED module) can selectively emit both visible light and infrared light, and is part of the vehicle's driving-lights system, such as a headlight and/or a reversing light. The LED module emits infrared light when operating as part of the shorter-distance sensor device and an infrared receiver detects the reflected infrared light for distance determination. The longer-distance sensor device uses ultrasonic waves to determine distance information, and when it indicates that the distance has fallen below a threshold distance (below which the longer-distance sensing device is not reliable), a controller activates the shorter-distance sensing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Frederic STEFAN, Christoph ARNDT, Uwe GUSSEN
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Publication number: 20180297507Abstract: A retrofit bracket configured to couple a replacement projector to a headlamp housing, and a method for manufacturing the retrofit bracket are provided. The retrofit bracket has housing mounting points for coupling to the headlamp housing and projector mounting points for coupling to the replacement projector. Manufacturing the retrofit bracket includes storing in computer readable memory a model of an original bracket, using data from the model of the original bracket to develop a model of a retrofit bracket, and using data from the model of the retrofit bracket to manufacture the retrofit bracket. A three-dimensional scanner can be utilized to capture information used in the model of the original bracket and the model of the retrofit bracket and a three-dimensional printer, machining, and molding can be utilized to manufacture the retrofit bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventor: Evan Hoburg Patak
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Publication number: 20180297508Abstract: A device and a method for controlling at least one headlight for a motor vehicle involve a control apparatus, at least one sensor configured to detect information about objects in a surrounding area of the motor vehicle and to supply the detected information to the control apparatus. The headlight can be adjusted by the control apparatus depending on at least one detected object. A range between at least one light source and at least one lens of the headlight can be adjusted by the control apparatus in order to adapt a projection of the light source to the at least one detected object.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Marcus FIEGE, Joerg MOISEL, Axel MUELLER
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Publication number: 20180297509Abstract: A bank angle of a vehicle can be accurately calculated using yaw axis data and roll axis data, and based on the calculated bank angle, vehicle illumination optics can be controlled to maintain a pattern of distributed light from the illumination optics to be generally horizontal. The calculated bank angle may be zeroed when the yaw axis data equals zero. The improved pattern of distributed light from the illumination optics illuminates a more natural field of view for the vehicle driver during a bank.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Kevin Jay McWithey, Bradley William Kay, Dragolsav Popovic
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Publication number: 20180297510Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a method for operating an illumination apparatus is provided. The method has at least two light-emitting devices, which are arranged next to one another separated by a gap and each have a multiplicity of light-emitting elements, by individually driving all light-emitting elements of each light-emitting device, measuring a gap width of the gap and/or a luminance in the gap, and controlling or regulating in each case a luminance of one or more of the light-emitting elements which are arranged directly at the gap in dependence on the gap width and/or on the luminance in the gap.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicant: OSRAM GmbHInventors: Roland Fiederling, Ronny Kürschner, Thomas Feil
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Publication number: 20180297511Abstract: A lamp for a vehicle includes: a lamp module configured to project a light having a beam pattern onto a road surface; at least one processor; and a computer-readable medium coupled to the at least one processor having stored thereon instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to perform operations comprising: obtaining vehicle driving information associated with driving of the vehicle; determining, based on vehicle driving information, a light adjustment region; and based on the determination of the light adjustment region, performing a gradual control of light projected to the light adjustment region, the gradual control of light configured to progressively change a brightness of light in the light adjustment region.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Seongho PARK, Ana KIM
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Publication number: 20180297512Abstract: In a vehicle lamp device, light emitted by a LED enters a concentration element of a lens and is irradiated from an irradiating face of the concentration element. The reflecting face of the concentration element surrounds a central axis of the concentration element. Light that enters the concentration element is reflected by the reflecting face toward a central axis side of the concentration element, and light reflected by the reflecting face is irradiated from the irradiating face. The concentration element is thus able to efficiently concentrate light emitted by the LED.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2018Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Yuto NAKAYAMA, Kazuyuki YOKOYAMA
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Publication number: 20180297513Abstract: A capacitive sensor and switch assembly is provided. The assembly includes a first electrode forming a decorative conductive component on a vehicle, and a second electrode dielectrically isolated from the first electrode and electrically coupled therewith to generate an activation field. The assembly also includes a dielectric layer disposed between the first and second electrodes, and a controller for processing a signal generated from the activation field and sensing an object, wherein the controller determines activation of a switch based on the signal generated from the activation field.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2017Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Pietro Buttolo, Wei Xu, Satyanarayana Raju Vemulapati
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Publication number: 20180297514Abstract: A steering column for a motor vehicle may include a steering shaft that is rotatably supported in a cover unit, an interface for fitting a steering column switch fixed relative to the cover unit, and a transmission element connected to the steering shaft so as to conduct torque by way of a securing means. The transmission element may include actuation means that is movable into operational engagement with the steering column switch fitted to the interface. The transmission element may be constructed in one piece together with at least one securing means for a rotationally secure connection to the steering shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Applicants: THYSSENKRUPP PRESTA AG, thyssenkrupp AGInventors: Marcus MASSONNAUD, Thomas GEISELBERGER, Martin FLEISCHER
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Publication number: 20180297515Abstract: A vehicle, in particular road vehicle, luminous glazing unit includes a laminated glazing unit and a first light source at the periphery of the glazing unit, a luminous woven textile including warp yarns, weft yarns and optical fibers, the optical fibers being capable of emitting light sideways, the optical fibers protruding from a first edge face of the laminated glazing unit, and the light source is connected to the first free ends of the optical fibers. The woven textile has openings between the warp yarns, the weft yarns and the optical fibers, lets a fraction of the solar radiation through via the openings and has a clarity C of at least 75%. The luminous woven textile is in optical contact with the faces F2 and F3 of the glass panes of the laminated glazing unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2016Publication date: October 18, 2018Inventors: Jean-Yves LALUET, Pascal BAUERLE, Emmanuelle ARTZNER, Cédric BROCHIER, Delphine CHEVALIER