Patents Issued in November 20, 2018
  • Patent number: 10131311
    Abstract: A driving seat airbag device includes: a driving seat airbag that is inflated and deployed at a vehicle rear side of a steering wheel on being supplied with gas; and a sliding cloth that is deployed in conjunction with inflation and deployment of the driving seat airbag, that covers an airbag rear face at a vehicle rear side of the driving seat airbag, and that is capable of movement in a vehicle width direction with respect to the airbag rear face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Ohno, Osamu Fukawatase
  • Patent number: 10131312
    Abstract: An airbag module for protecting an occupant of a vehicle seat includes an inflatable cushion and an inflator for providing inflation gas. The module is mounted on an inboard side of a second vehicle seat located adjacent to the vehicle seat containing the occupant. The cushion is configured to inflate into a position between the seats and includes a forward inflatable chamber that is a larger volume than a rearward inflatable chamber. The forward chamber extends vertically from the bottom of the vehicle seat to a position suitable to receive impact from the head of the occupant in the event of a far-side crash event. The rearward inflatable chamber is configured to deploy into a position inboard of the vehicle seats. The forward and rearward inflatable chambers are separated by a cleft that opens toward the occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Joyson Safety Systems Acquisition LLC
    Inventors: Richard Andrew Wiik, Russell Joseph Mihm
  • Patent number: 10131313
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant (28) of a vehicle (12) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) configured to be inflated and deployed between a side structure (16) of the vehicle and the vehicle occupant. A deployment sleeve (50) encircles a portion of the protection device. The deployment sleeve (50) includes a rupturable tear seam (54) that absorbs the initial break-out forces of the protection device (14) during the initial stages of inflation and deployment. The tear seam (54) is adapted to rupture after the deployment sleeve (50) absorbs the break-out forces and release the protection device (14) to inflate and deploy to a fully inflated and deployed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Kim S. Young, Kurt F. Fischer, Rico S. Bertossi
  • Patent number: 10131314
    Abstract: A curtain airbag for a vehicle may include a curtain airbag cushion; a venting chamber that fills a space between an end portion of a frontal airbag on the door window side and an A pillar; and a first vent opening formed in a portion of the venting chamber, the portion being near the door window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Joo Seon Yoo, Jae Ho Choi
  • Patent number: 10131315
    Abstract: Holding elements for attaching an element of an airbag assembly to a holding unit comprising such a holding element and an inflating element, along with related methods. In some embodiments, the holding element may be configured for attaching an element of an airbag assembly via at least one tear seam, and the holding element may comprise a first side wall made of a flexible material and a second side wall made of a flexible material. A peripheral connection may couple the first side wall and the second side wall and may extend from a first end to a second end such that the first side wall, the second side wall, and the peripheral connection define a space therebetween and an opening. The holding element may further comprise an inlay comprising a hole and having at least one layer being located between the first side wall and the second side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Haas, Jr., Thomas Reiter, David Keyser
  • Patent number: 10131316
    Abstract: In an airbag comprising at least one aperture (14) which is provided in an airbag shell (12) and to which a closure element (16) is attached a tether (34) via which the closure element (16) can be maintained in a closed position acts on the closure element (16). The invention moreover relates to a method of operating a vehicle occupant protection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Daniele Aranzulla, Martin Burkhardtsmaler
  • Patent number: 10131317
    Abstract: An easily portable safety harness and head support system for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes clips that attach to the headrest posts of the existing vehicle seat and the brackets on the seat back. A head support portion including a neck cushion and two side cushions is included and front harness straps with a release secure the child or toddler. The vehicle seat belt fits between the doubled strap harnesses that extend from the headrest posts to the bottom of the seat back, preventing the child or toddler from being ejected from the vehicle in the case of a collision or the like. The head support portion with the neck cushion and side supports prevents neck injuries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Kendall Harrington
  • Patent number: 10131318
    Abstract: An alert system to assist in child safety in a vehicle includes a seat belt buckle insert adapted to be inserted between the male and female parts of a standard safety belt found in most automobiles or for a child car safety seat. It may also include a portable receiver device designed to be carried by a vehicle operator. The seat belt buckle insert detects whether the seat belt has been buckled and the temperature is within an acceptable range, as well as the approximate distance between the seat belt buckle insert and portable receiver device. The seat belt buckle transmits information gathered to the portable receiver device and triggers alerts notifying the vehicle operator of a child's safety status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Jason Davis
  • Patent number: 10131319
    Abstract: The present disclosure addresses methods for increasing and varying the range of control of wireless systems used in vehicles. The present invention enables varying ranges which allow a user, for example, to activate lights when an authorized vehicle user is in a close range, and to start the vehicle from a distance before the authorized vehicle user leaves the house. The described systems use variable frequency shift keying, variations in power transmissions, and user defined ranges that can be modified through Bluetooth communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Huf North American Automotive Parts Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Matthew R. Honkanen
  • Patent number: 10131320
    Abstract: Embodiments include a vehicle comprising a plurality of wheels, each wheel including a pressure sensor and a wireless transceiver; a central transceiver configured to obtain tire pressure and signal strength information from each of the wireless transceivers; and a processor communicatively coupled to the central transceiver and configured to detect removal of one of the wheels based on the signal strength information obtained from the wireless transceiver included in the removed wheel. Other embodiments include a method comprising obtaining tire pressure and signal strength information from each of a plurality of wireless transceivers respectively coupled to a plurality of wheels included in a vehicle; and detecting, using one or more processors, removal of one of the wheels from the vehicle based on the signal strength information obtained from the wireless transceiver included in the removed wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John William Schmotzer, Harminder Sandhu
  • Patent number: 10131321
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for a system for keyless entry. An example vehicle includes a valet dongle, a dock configured to connect to the valet dongle; and a valet manager. The valet manager enables the valet dongle to authorize keyless entry and keyless ignition when (a) the valet dongle is removed from the dock while an ignition of the vehicle is on and (b) an authorized passcode is provided via an infotainment head unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Salman Ahsan, Vivekanandh Elangovan, Kevin Thomas Hille, Gregory William Farrey, Thomas Kasper
  • Patent number: 10131322
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for authorizing a user to access an access-controlled environment. The system includes a system server platform that communicates with mobile devices (e.g., smartphones) and on-board vehicle computing devices accessed by users. The embodiments enable a series of operations whereby a user accessing a vehicle is prompted to biometrically authenticate using the user's smartphone or on-board vehicle computer. In addition, the system can further authorize the user and electronically facilitate access to the vehicle as well as perform other authorized operations relating to the use of the vehicle. In addition the vehicle access system integrates with various computing devices and computer-based services accessible to the user. The systems and methods also facilitate active monitoring of the vehicle occupants and environmental conditions using optical sensors and the like so as to enhance security, convenience and safety of the occupants during use of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: VERIDIUM IP LIMITED
    Inventors: Hector Hoyos, Jason Braverman, Geoffrey Xiao, Jonathan Francis Mather, Scott Streit
  • Patent number: 10131323
    Abstract: A notification system for a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises at least one object detection sensor configured to detect an object proximate to the vehicle and communicate a distance signal indicating a distance of the object from the vehicle. The system further comprises a first notification device configured to output a vibrating notification and a controller in communication with the at least one object detection sensor and the first notification device. The controller is configured to identify a first object detection of the approaching object in response to the distance signal indicating that the distance of the object is less than a first predetermined distance. The controller is further configured to activate the first device to output the vibrating notification in response to the first object detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jacob C. Sterling
  • Patent number: 10131324
    Abstract: A spline for use in a windshield wiper assembly including a wiping element is provided. The spline is composed of a pair of elongate strips, and each strip includes a first curved portion having at least one pointed protrusion to penetrate the wiping element, a notched portion having a notch, a second curved portion provided at a side of the elongate strip, and a body portion to seat within the wiping element. An overall shape of the spline is convex or concave with a bottom surface of the spline directed toward a wiping lip of the wiping element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: ALBEREE PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Albert Lee
  • Patent number: 10131325
    Abstract: A wiper assembly for a window of a vehicle and a method of cleaning a window are provided. The wiper assembly includes a wiper blade having a fluid extraction opening, a fluid discharge outlet remote from the wiper blade and a fluid tight conduit connecting the fluid extraction opening to the fluid discharge outlet. The wiper assembly may further include a suction pump configured to draw air and water into the fluid extraction opening and through the fluid tight conduit of the wiper assembly, thereby reducing the amount of water left of the window following wiping and improving visibility for the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: William Gerald Barr
  • Patent number: 10131326
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting and inflating tires is described that is suitable for quickly sealing the beads of a tire to the rim of a wheel. The present invention delivers a high volume of pressurized air to an interior of a tire through a nozzle. The apparatus of the invention is particularly well suited for tire changing machines and tire mounting subsystems. The apparatus includes a tire changing station, an air supply controller, and a nozzle capable of delivering a high volume of pressurized fluid into an interior of a tire through a valve stem hole of the wheel rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Ken Davidson
  • Patent number: 10131327
    Abstract: A disc brake assembly and a method of mounting a disc brake assembly. The disc brake assembly may have a caliper that may receive first and second brake pads, a cover, and a spacer. The cover may have an opening pattern arranged to allow insertion and removal of the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignees: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems (UK) Limited, Scania CB AB
    Inventors: Paul Anthony Thomas, Huw Wills-Wood, Adrian Bull, Mats Lofstrand
  • Patent number: 10131328
    Abstract: A wheel chocking assembly for a vehicle such as a truck where the wheel chocks are supported in respective cradles mounted for rotation on the truck's frame or chassis, and where the cradles are adapted to be moved between a first upwardly-facing inoperative position where each cradle supports its corresponding chock in an inoperative mode, and an operative positon where each cradle is rotated about 180° sufficient to lower its corresponding chock by a tether into chocking position under the influence of gravity. A control system is provided where transition from the aforementioned inoperative position to the operative position is remotely controlled by operation of the vehicle's parking brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Kenneth Breakfield
  • Patent number: 10131329
    Abstract: A brake system of an aircraft may include a first brake control assembly, a second brake control assembly, a first brake control unit electrically coupled to the first brake control assembly, a second brake control unit electrically coupled to the second brake control assembly, and an arbitration control module. The arbitration control module may be configured to determine an operational integrity of the first brake control unit and the second brake control unit. In response to determining that one of the first brake control unit and the second brake control unit does not have sufficient operational integrity, the arbitration control module may enable the other of the first brake control unit and the second brake control unit to control both the first brake control assembly and the second brake control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Goodrich, Corporation
    Inventors: Marc Georgin, Eric Daniel Cahill
  • Patent number: 10131330
    Abstract: Systems, vehicles, and methods for controlling an application of a plurality of trailer brakes are disclosed. A system for controlling an application of a plurality of trailer brakes includes a processor, a memory module communicatively coupled to the processor, a trailer brake output circuit operatively coupled to the plurality of trailer brakes and communicatively coupled to the processor, a cornering attitude input communicatively coupled to the processor, and machine readable instructions stored in the memory module. When executed by the processor, the machine readable instructions cause the system to receive a cornering attitude signal from the cornering attitude input, determine when an understeer cornering attitude exists based on the received cornering attitude signal, and prevent the application of the plurality of trailer brakes by the trailer brake output circuit when the understeer cornering attitude is determined to exist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Stephen L. Robertson
  • Patent number: 10131331
    Abstract: A braking force control device includes an actuator configured to control a braking force generated in vehicle wheels of a vehicle and a control unit configured to output a braking force command value to the actuator. The control unit is configured to perform at least one of the following processes of generating a braking force command value by performing a filter processing on a required braking force based on a braking operation amount using a filter having a smaller damping ratio than a damping ratio of a pitch motion of the vehicle when the required braking force increases, or generating the braking force command value by performing the filter processing on the required braking force based on the braking operation amount using a filter having a greater damping ratio than the damping ratio of the pitch motion of the vehicle when the required braking force decreases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shiro Monzaki, Tamio Kano, Tomoaki Morimoto, Daiji Watanabe
  • Patent number: 10131332
    Abstract: A controller for a brake may comprise a tangible, non-transitory memory configured to communicate with the controller, the tangible, non-transitory memory having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the controller, cause the controller to perform operations comprising receiving, by the controller, a three-phase signal indicating a first duty cycle for a first phase signal, a second duty cycle for a second phase signal, and a third duty cycle for a third phase signal, determining, by the controller, a minimum value based upon the first phase signal, the second phase signal, and the third phase signal, and converting, by the controller, the minimum value to a zero value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Naison E Mastrocola, Scott R Durkee
  • Patent number: 10131333
    Abstract: A brake actuation unit (1) having a master brake cylinder (2) and a pressure-medium reservoir (4); a pressure provision device (5), having a piston (51) actuated by an electric motor (35), wherein the piston delimits a pressure chamber (50); first and second groups of electrically actuatable valves (6a-6d, 7a-7d); and an electronic control unit (12, 12?). The electric motor has at least two independently operable drive units, each having at least one winding, for driving the electric motor. The electronic control unit has a first microcontroller (201) and a second microcontroller (301). The first microcontroller controls (205) one of the drive units and the second microcontroller controls (305) the other of the drive units. The first and second microcontrollers control (207, 307) the second group of valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: CONTINENTAL TEVES AG & CO. OHG
    Inventors: Hans-Jörg Feigel, Josko Kurbasa
  • Patent number: 10131334
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brake fluid container for a master cylinder in a hydraulic brake system. A safety valve is provided to ensure that the neck of the brake fluid container closes when the brake fluid container is detached from the master cylinder, for example in case of an accident. The safety valve is disposed in a cartridge which can be inserted from outside in a tightly sealing manner into the neck of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. OHG
    Inventors: Werner Krebs, Stephan Krebs, Horst Krämer, Harald König, Stephan Schlicht
  • Patent number: 10131336
    Abstract: A valve includes at least one of an electrical port adapted to receive an electronic control signal and a pneumatic control port adapted to receive a pneumatic control signal. The valve also includes a pneumatic delivery port. The pneumatic delivery port is adapted to transmit a pneumatic fluid, based on the at least one of the received electronic control signal and the received pneumatic control signal, from a second independent source to control i) a second associated service brake and ii) delivery of the pneumatic fluid from a first independent source to control a first associated service brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Paul C. Niglas, Michael D. Tober, David W. Howell, Gerhard Wieder, Adnan Mustapha, Friedbert Roether
  • Patent number: 10131337
    Abstract: A relay valve module of a pneumatic brake system for a vehicle includes a relay valve and an actuating unit. A valve body of the relay valve defines therein an air supply chamber in fluid communication with a supply air reservoir, and a delivery chamber in fluid communication with brake cylinders. A valve seat is disposed between the air supply and delivery chambers; and is opened and closed by movement of a valve member that is actuated by a piston slidable relative to the valve body. The actuating unit includes a stem assembly moved by a pressure to press the piston so as to move the valve member, and an actuating assembly electrically connected with an electronic control unit of the vehicle to receive a brake signal therefrom to provide the pressure to the stem assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Automotive Research & Testing Center
    Inventors: Ping-Yan Li, Chien-An Chen, Po-Hsu Lin
  • Patent number: 10131338
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a heat-exchange dryer apparatus are disclosed. In one embodiment, a heat-exchange dryer apparatus includes a desiccant cartridge comprising desiccant material, a purge-air reservoir secured to the desiccant cartridge, and a compressed-air conduit disposed inside the purge-air reservoir. In another embodiment, a vehicle air-brake system includes an air compressor, a desiccant cartridge comprising desiccant material, and a heat exchange dryer apparatus disposed between the compressor and the desiccant. The temperature of the compressed air is decreased while the temperature of the purge air is increased and the desiccant adsorbs a greater amount of contaminants form the compressed air for improved drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: David W. Howell, Fred W. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 10131339
    Abstract: A hydraulic bicycle component includes a first section and a first seal rupturing structure. The first section defines a first fluid path. The first seal rupturing structure is disposed in the vicinity of the first fluid path. The first seal rupturing structure is configured to physically rupture a first seal of a first hydraulic hose when the hydraulic bicycle component is coupled to the first hydraulic hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Osamu Kariyama, Masahiro Nakakura, Takahiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 10131340
    Abstract: For ascertaining at least one variable regarding a state of a brake fluid in a brake system of a vehicle, an evaluation unit is configured to determine the at least one variable by taking into account at least one pair of values of a provided or ascertained volume flow variable regarding a volume flow of at least a portion of the brake fluid through a flow resistance in the brake system and a provided or ascertained associated pressure drop variable regarding a pressure drop at the flow resistance through which the volume flow flows. For the at least one pair of values taken into account, a volume flow variable lies within a first specified limited value range and the pressure drop variable lies within a second specified limited value range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Bertram Foitzik, Dagobert Masur
  • Patent number: 10131341
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel system and method for a power management strategy for series hybrid power systems, such as for vehicles, with limited electrical energy storage capacity that distributes instantaneous power between a source of chemical energy and a small energy storage system (ESS) efficiently. The invention provides for minimizing the energy storage system while simultaneously allowing the chemical to electrical energy converter, e.g., an internal combustion motor/engine paired with an electrical generator and/or a fuel cell power source, to operate in pre-defined efficient regions of the power user's, or vehicle's, fuel efficiency map.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Mississippi State University
    Inventors: Masood Shahverdi, Michael S. Mazzola
  • Patent number: 10131342
    Abstract: A hybrid powertrain includes an engine having a crankshaft and a throttle body, and an electric machine having a rotor selectively coupled to the crankshaft via a disconnect clutch. A transmission of the powertrain includes a torque converter having an impeller fixed to the rotor, a turbine disposed on an input shaft of the transmission, and a bypass clutch configured to selectively transmit torque from the impeller to the turbine. A vehicle controller is programmed to, in response to the bypass clutch being open or slipping and the disconnect clutch being closed, command a throttle position of the throttle body based on an error between measured and estimated speeds of the impeller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Meyer, Rajit Johri
  • Patent number: 10131343
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine, an MG (motor generator) an MG2, a planetary gear device mechanically coupled to the engine and MG1 and MG2, a battery, an inverter configured to perform a power conversion between the battery and MG1 and between the battery and MG2, and a controller. MG1 generates a counter-electromotive torque when rotated by the engine. During an inverter-less running control where the inverter is put into a gate shut-off state and the engine is driven to cause MG1 to generate the counter-electromotive torque, the controller decreases a engine target rotation speed Netag when an integrated value of battery charging current (deterioration evaluation value D) is greater than a predetermined value (threshold value D1) smaller than the engine target rotation speed Netag when the deterioration evaluation value D is equal to or smaller than the threshold value D1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Kishimoto, Masaya Amano, Takashi Ando, Yu Shimizu, Yuki Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 10131344
    Abstract: A hybrid vehicle and method for reducing fuel consumption include upper and lower engine speed limits set based upon whether the state of charge of a battery electrically connected to an electric machine, which may be implemented by an integrated starter-generator is sufficiently high to permit the electric machine to provide a temporary torque boost to an engine of the motor vehicle. If the state of charge of the battery is sufficiently high to permit temporary torque boosting, then the upper and lower engine speed limits are reduced from baseline upper and lower limits to adjusted upper and lower limits to reduce fuel consumption of the engine without adversely affecting NVH.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Anthemios Philemon Petridis, Nicholas Dashwood Crisp, Khizer Tufail
  • Patent number: 10131345
    Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a hybrid vehicle control device capable of shortening the time from an engine start request to the engine start. The hybrid vehicle control device is provided with an integrated controller configured to execute processing for starting an engine by bringing a first clutch into engagement, while slipping a second clutch, and by increasing a torque of a motor generator, when it has been determined that an engine start request is present, and a first clutch engagement control section, which is included in the integrated controller and configured to command a start of engagement of the first clutch once the difference between the torque of the motor generator and a second clutch transmitted torque capacity command value becomes greater than or equal to a preset slip prediction determination threshold value after having been determined that the engine start request is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroki Matsui, Hiroki Shimoyama
  • Patent number: 10131346
    Abstract: A method for diagnosing demagnetization of a motor of a vehicle can accurately diagnose an irreversible demagnetization state of a permanent magnet of a traction motor or a hybrid starter-generator (HSG) without additional hardware, while minimizing influence of irreversible demagnetization of the permanent magnet of the traction motor or the HSG on vehicle performance. The method includes acquiring operating state information of the motor, determining whether a diagnosis entrance condition including a state in which the motor performs an electricity generating operation is satisfied based on the acquired operating state information of the motor, acquiring a direct current (DC) value in diagnosis, and determining whether irreversible demagnetization occurs by comparing the acquired DC value in diagnosis with a pre-stored DC current value in a normal state of the permanent magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seong Min Kim, Jae Sang Lim, Kil Young Youn, Ji Wan Cha, Young Un Kim, Jeong Won Rho
  • Patent number: 10131347
    Abstract: A parking assistance apparatus for a vehicle, and including a camera configured to photograph surroundings of the vehicle; an interface configured to receive sensor information from the vehicle; a display configured to display a graphic image about an automatic parking function of the vehicle; and a processor configured to initiate the automatic parking function by controlling the vehicle to travel to a target parking position, detect a traveling resistance of the vehicle from the sensor information while the vehicle is traveling to the target parking position, determine a factor causing the traveling resistance, continue controlling the vehicle to travel to the target parking position when the detected traveling resistance is less than a predetermined resistance, and change the controlling of the vehicle to travel to the target parking position to offset the factor causing the traveling resistance, when the detected traveling resistance is equal to or greater than the predetermined resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Ilho Kim, Wooseok Yoo
  • Patent number: 10131348
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an information processor includes a memory and processing circuitry. The circuitry receives area information indicating a second area in a first area around a movable body apparatus and third areas in the first area, wherein the movable body apparatus is movable in the second area and an object is present in each of the third areas. The circuitry receives movement information including at least one of a velocity, a movement direction or an acceleration of the apparatus. The circuitry acquires evaluation values each indicative of a damage to be caused when the apparatus collides with each object in the third areas, and determines, based on the evaluation values, a position corresponding to a first object which causes a least damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Kaoru Sugita, Masahiro Sekine, Tomoki Watanabe
  • Patent number: 10131349
    Abstract: A steering assistant includes a lane width setting unit and a determination unit. The lane width setting unit provides setting of a lane width between lane lines on right and left sides of an own vehicle. The determination unit monitors a lane line state to determine how the lane line state has transited, in which the lane line state involves presence or absence of the lane lines on the right and left sides of the own vehicle. The lane width setting unit provides the setting of the lane width, with a virtual lane line assumed on side on which the lane line is missing, when it is determined that the lane line state has transited to a state in which the lane line is provided on either one of the right and left sides of the own vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: SUBARU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Akihiro Watanabe
  • Patent number: 10131350
    Abstract: A velocity control mechanism for a vehicle operable to move in a forward direction and a rearward direction. The velocity control mechanism includes an acceleration control mode operable to accelerate the vehicle in one of the forward direction and the rearward direction, a velocity control mode operable to control a velocity of the vehicle in one of the forward and the rearward direction, and an intermediate control mode positioned between the acceleration control mode and the velocity control mode. An actuator is moveable between the acceleration control mode and the velocity control mode and is biased into the intermediate control mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Bruce C. Newendorp, Julian Baumann, Andreas Ahrens, Michael A. Rehberg, Christian Wetzel, David J. Easton
  • Patent number: 10131351
    Abstract: A control device for a continuously variable transmission includes first, second, and third controllers. The first controller controls, in response to a first speed control request for controlling a traveling speed of a vehicle for a predetermined state, a gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission such that a rotational speed of a drive power source approaches a set rotational speed. The second controller controls, in response to a second speed control request issued while the first controller is controlling the gear ratio, the gear ratio based on the rotational speed and the gear ratio. The third controller changes, when the rotational speed changes as a result of the second controller controlling the gear ratio, torque of the drive power source based on torque and the rotational speed of the drive power source before the gear ratio is changed and a target rotational speed of the drive power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: SUBARU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiromichi Yahagi
  • Patent number: 10131352
    Abstract: A CPU drives an inverter based on a command rotation speed that is inputted from a higher level ECU at a predetermined update interval. The CPU acquires an actual rotation speed of the electric motor, and calculates an accelerated rate and a decelerated rate based on the update interval and a difference between the actual rotation speed and the command rotation speed such that the actual rotation speed changes without reaching the command rotation speed and becoming constant before an end of the update interval. The CPU drives the inverter such that the electric motor rotates at the calculated rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Sumi, Koji Sakai, Yuuji Kamiya, Hideyuki Morita
  • Patent number: 10131353
    Abstract: A vehicle chooses a target vehicle based on a position of a preceding vehicle and information about a visual line of a driver, both of which are acquired by respective detection units provided in the vehicle, and controls a traveling speed of the vehicle of the driver in relation with the target vehicle. The vehicle includes: a preceding-vehicle detection unit to detect other vehicle located in front of the vehicle of a driver to acquire a position of the other vehicle; a driver visual line detection unit to acquire information about a visual line of the driver; and a control unit to choose a target vehicle based on the information of the other vehicle and the information about the visual line of the driver and control a traveling speed of the vehicle which the driver drives such that an inter-vehicle distance from the target vehicle becomes a preset distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Sihyoung Lee
  • Patent number: 10131354
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine. The vehicle includes a controller configured to start a timer having a duration defined by a charge limit of a traction battery and during which the engine braking is maintained and reduce a predetermined rate of change speed limit of the engine is reduced. The starting of the timer is responsive to application of an accelerator pedal during engine braking. The controller is further configured to increase the predetermined rate of change speed limit such that engine braking is predicted based on the limit of the battery, responsive to application of an accelerator pedal during engine braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Carol Louise Okubo, Kent Hancock, Jacob Doan, Bryan Whitney D. Belt
  • Patent number: 10131355
    Abstract: A vehicle traveling control apparatus includes an obtaining unit, a detector, and a controller. The obtaining unit obtains traveling environment information. The traveling environment information includes at least lane line information of a lane along which an own vehicle travels and preceding vehicle information. The detector detects traveling information of the own vehicle. The controller performs a steering control on a basis of the traveling environment information and the traveling information. When the obtaining unit obtains only the lane line information and when the obtaining unit obtains both the lane line information and the preceding vehicle information, the controller performs the steering control on a basis of the lane line information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: SUBARU CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasushi Takaso, Hajime Oyama
  • Patent number: 10131356
    Abstract: A travel control apparatus comprises a first detector configured to detect an obstacle around a subject vehicle traveling in a first lane and a second detector configured to detect a second lane adjacent to the first lane. The apparatus sets a first range at a target position for lane change in the second lane. The first range has a size equal to or larger than a size which the subject vehicle occupies on a road surface. The apparatus detects a range in the second lane as a second range located at a side of the subject vehicle, and the obstacle is absent in the range in the second lane. The apparatus permits the subject vehicle to change lanes when the second range includes the first range. A travel control method performs correction to reduce the first range or increase the second range based on a necessity level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Takae
  • Patent number: 10131357
    Abstract: A vehicle powertrain includes an engine and a transmission, each controlled by controllers that communicate with one another. When the vehicle is coasting in certain gears, a one-way clutch over-runs. When the driver depresses the accelerator pedal (tips in), the transmission controller adjusts a transmission torque demand limit which is communicated to the engine controller. In response, the engine controller adjusts the engine torque, resulting in a smooth re-engagement of the one-way clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kurt Howard Nickerson, Bradley Dean Riedle, Kendrick Morrison, Jianping Zhang, Cory Benson LaRoche
  • Patent number: 10131358
    Abstract: A vehicle control apparatus which includes an engine, an automatic transmission, and drive wheels transmitted with the power of the engine through the automatic transmission, the automatic transmission including a torque converter connected with the engine, a transmission mechanism connected with the torque converter, the torque converter having a pump impeller connected with the engine, and a turbine runner connected with the transmission mechanism, the vehicle control apparatus for a vehicle further including: an input shaft rotational speed sensor that detects the rotational speed Nt of the turbine runner, and a control unit to control the engine to have the rotational speed Ne of the engine raised when a determination condition in which the rotational speed Nt of the turbine runner is not raised even within a standard time T1 lapsed after the engine is started is established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yu Sasaki, Takeshi Ishiwada, Shuji Toyokawa
  • Patent number: 10131359
    Abstract: A communication system for a vehicle, with a processor designed to determine a driving situation of the vehicle, and a communication interface designed to receive V2X communication data of a first additional vehicle, wherein the V2X communication data defines a driving situation of the first additional vehicle, wherein the processor is designed to detect a second additional vehicle which is located between the vehicle and the first additional vehicle on the basis of the determined driving situation of the vehicle and the driving situation of the first additional vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Harald Feifel, Daniel Förster, Attila Jaeger, Richard Scherping
  • Patent number: 10131360
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for determining a road surface friction coefficient and controlling a feature of the vehicle based thereon. In one embodiment, a method includes: receiving signals from an electronic power steering system and an inertial measurement unit; estimating parameters associated with an electronic power steering system model using an iterative optimization method; calculating an electronic power steering system variable using the electronic power steering system model, the estimated parameters and one or more of the received signals; determining whether the calculated electronic power steering system variable satisfies a fitness criterion; and when the calculated electronic power steering system variable does satisfy the fitness criterion, determining a road surface friction coefficient based on at least one of the estimated parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Yadollah Sabri, Simon E. Zimmerman, Yingmei Si, Steven T. Schweitzer, Qingrong Zhao, Qi Zhang, Nikolai K. Moshchuk
  • Patent number: 10131361
    Abstract: A method is presented, which comprises: obtaining or holding available at least one speed profile for at least one selected link of a travel network, wherein said at least one speed profile represents a plurality of speeds for a plurality of subsequent segments of said selected link; smoothing said at least one speed profile for said at least one selected link in a first smoothing step by: determining whether said at least one speed profile represents one or more speeds that are associated with an acceleration above a predetermined acceleration threshold or a deceleration below a predetermined deceleration threshold; for each speed that is determined to be associated with an acceleration above said acceleration threshold or a deceleration below said deceleration threshold, determining a respective adapted speed for replacing said respective speed at least partially based on speeds for one or more adjacent segments of said respective segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: HERE Global B.V.
    Inventors: Dongwook Jang, Joshua Thompson, Gavril Giurgiu, Anton Anastassov