Patents Issued in January 29, 2019
  • Patent number: 10189487
    Abstract: A railway truck to railway car body interface is provided. The railway truck is comprised of a bolster supported between two sideframes. The truck bolster includes a center bowl, and the car body includes a body bolster opening. A center plate is placed between the truck bolster center bowl and the car body bolster opening. A wear liner, usually comprised of an elastomeric material, is provided between the sides of the center bowl and the center plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: AMSTED RAIL COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Warren, Paul Wike
  • Patent number: 10189488
    Abstract: A draft gear assembly for use with railcars having coupler members is provided. The draft gear assembly has front and back ends and comprises a yoke, a coupler follower, a front resilient member, an intermediate stop member, and a back resilient member. The yoke has a back wall, a top wall extending from the back wall toward the front end of the draft gear assembly, and a bottom wall extending from the back wall toward the front end of the draft gear assembly. The coupler follower is positioned between the butt end of the coupler shank and the front end of the draft gear assembly. The front resilient member is positioned between the coupler follower and the intermediate stop member. The back resilient member is positioned between the intermediate stop member and the yoke back wall. The front and back resilient members are compressible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: AMSTED RAIL COMPANY, INC.
    Inventor: Marlin E. Clark
  • Patent number: 10189489
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an offline variable monitoring system and method for MPUs of an EMU train, comprising a serial port unit, an Ethernet interface, a TF card interface and a status indicator, which are all electrically connected to a main control unit; the main control unit is connected to a PC and TF expansion card via the Ethernet interface and the TF card interface separately, and records monitored offline variable values into the TF expansion card. The monitoring method comprised three operating modes: a configuration mode, a working mode and a download mode, which realize the monitoring of offline variables by using a multithread operating system including a TCP/IP communication thread, a main control thread and a serial port data monitoring thread. The way of recording the monitored data may be configured flexibly; and the monitoring of four central control units MPUs of the EMU train may be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: CRRC QINGDAO SIFANG ROLLING STOCK RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kai Wang, Hengliang Zheng, Junqiang Tian, Huixing Fan, Huiyong Gao, Shaoli Wang
  • Patent number: 10189490
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Garrett Jacob Ferrell
  • Patent number: 10189491
    Abstract: A slab cart comprising: a frame that includes wheels mounted to an underside of the frame; a primary upright member emanating upward from each end of the frame; two or more secondary upright members emanating upward from each end of the frame; a pivoting member engaged to the primary upright member and the secondary upright members; a platform frame engaged to the pivoting member and the primary and secondary upright members wherein the platform frame may pivot from a substantially vertical orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation, a support member secured to the platform frame which is used to aid in the retention of slabs; and a lift mechanism operationally associated with the frame, the upright members and the platform frame wherein the lift mechanism may raise or lower the platform frame relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Inventor: Augusto P. Septimio
  • Patent number: 10189492
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a running gear having a carrier plate and a first roller, a second roller and a third roller, which are arranged on the carrier plate. Simplified handling and/or increased stability of the running gear is produced if the first roller can rotate about a first rolling axis running parallel to a plane of extent of the carrier plate and the second roller can rotate about a second rolling axis running parallel to the plane of extent and the third roller can rotate about a third rolling axis running parallel to the plane of extent. The invention further relates to an arrangement having at least two such running gears, wherein at least two such running gears are connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Jung Hebe- und Transporttechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Birol Gündogan
  • Patent number: 10189493
    Abstract: Carrying arrangement for carrying apparatuses, in particular medical apparatuses, having a base carrier on which at least three roller elements are arranged in order to move the carrying arrangement with respect to a floor surface. The roller elements are each rotatable about first axes of rotation (D). At least one of these roller elements is pivotable about a pivot axis (S) with respect to the base carrier. The axes of rotation (D) and the pivot axis (S) extend in different directions. At least one supporting element is arranged at least indirectly on the base carrier. The supporting element does not contact the floor in a first position of the carrying arrangement with respect to the floor surface and the supporting element contacts the floor in a second position of the carrying arrangement with respect to the floor, the second position being pivoted with respect to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Guenther Grubauer, Dominik Litsch, Josef Schlosser
  • Patent number: 10189494
    Abstract: A system for monitoring shopping carts or other human-propelled carts includes wireless access points that communicate on a wireless network with wheel assemblies of the carts. The system is capable of monitoring a path followed by a cart in a store or building, and using the path (optionally together with other criteria) to determine whether to authorize the cart to exit. For example, if a shopping cart fails to pass through a checkout lane of a store, the system may perform an action that blocks or inhibits the shipping cart from exiting the store. The wheel assemblies may include LEDs or other visual indicators that alert store personnel when a wheel assembly is in a particular state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Gatekeeper Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen E. Hannah, Scott J. Carter, Jesse M. James
  • Patent number: 10189495
    Abstract: A baby stroller for transporting an infant at speeds faster than normal walking is disclosed. This baby stroller can be folded to make it easier to stow and transport. The folding mechanism, a unique feature of the design is directed toward compactness, ease of use, reliability, and reduction in manufacturing costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Baby Jogger, LLC
    Inventors: Martin E. Valdez, James Blubaugh
  • Patent number: 10189496
    Abstract: A steering column assembly includes an upper jacket assembly, a lower jacket assembly, a telescope drive assembly, and a telescope drive lock assembly. The upper jacket assembly is at least partially received within the lower jacket assembly. The telescope drive assembly includes a telescope actuator and an extension member. The telescope drive lock assembly is operatively connected to the extension member. The telescope drive lock assembly is configured to facilitate movement of the upper jacket assembly away from the retracted position while an advanced driver assist system is active and the upper jacket assembly is in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: STEERING SOLUTIONS IP HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Todd M. King, Thomas M. Finney, Edward A. Cana
  • Patent number: 10189497
    Abstract: An adjustable steering column assembly comprises a steering column shroud, a support bracket, and a clamp mechanism. The support bracket comprises two arms having a portion of the column shroud located therebetween. The clamp mechanism comprises a pin that passes through slots in the arms and carries a fixed cam portion and moving cam portion, relative rotation of the fixed cam portion and moving cam portion causing the clamp mechanism to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The fixed cam portion has an anti-rotation feature that sits at least partially within one of the slots in one of the arms and which co-operates with the side walls of the slot to substantially prevent unwanted rotation of the fixed portion of the cam mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: TRW Limited
    Inventors: Stephen Butler, Niclas Davies, Prasanna Chaturacharimath
  • Patent number: 10189498
    Abstract: A power steering tank baffle includes a filter member, a hood member and a rib member. The filter member includes an inflow portion and an outflow portion, the inflow portion including a first plurality of openings and a second plurality of openings. The hood member is disposed over the inflow portion. The rib member connects the filter member and the hood member, the rib member being disposed on the inflow portion so as to separate the first plurality of openings and the second plurality of openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Travis James Parak, Tok Lau
  • Patent number: 10189499
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a steering control apparatus comprising: a sensing unit configured to sense at least one among a vehicle speed, a steering angle, first lateral acceleration, and a steering angle speed; an estimation unit configured to estimate second lateral acceleration on the basis of the vehicle speed and the steering angle; and a controller configured to control a steering device so that a steering torque increases, on the basis of a slip gradient which indicates a difference between the first lateral acceleration and the second lateral acceleration, wherein the controlling of the steering device is released when the steering angle speed is inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Sung Gun Lee
  • Patent number: 10189500
    Abstract: A parking assistance apparatus includes: an occupant information processing unit configured to process information on an occupant of a vehicle to generate occupant information; a peripheral information processing unit configured to process information on a periphery of the vehicle to generate peripheral information including information on an object in the periphery of the vehicle; and a parking setting unit configured to detect a parkable area which is an area in which the vehicle is parkable based on the peripheral information, and set a parking target position that is a target of parking of the vehicle in the parkable area based on the occupant information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yasuhito Nakayama
  • Patent number: 10189501
    Abstract: A parking assist apparatus includes a parking range identification unit that identifies a current parking range using vehicle speed information and steering angle information acquired from a vehicle along with movement of the vehicle, a display control unit that causes an image indicating the identified current parking range to be displayed in such a manner as to be superimposed on a vehicle-surroundings image, an estimated movement range calculation unit that, when no vehicle speed information can be acquired in a process of a gradual reduction in vehicle speed, calculates an estimated movement range of the vehicle using deceleration of the vehicle based on vehicle speed information acquired before a time when no vehicle speed information can be acquired, and the steering angle information, and an estimated movement range display unit that displays, around the image indicating the current parking range, an image indicating the calculated estimated movement range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Alpine Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryohei Suda, Kosuke Munakata
  • Patent number: 10189502
    Abstract: The present application discloses a wheel beam type axleless vehicle frame that comprises five sections in sequence from front to back, including a front hanging rack, a front wheel carrier, an intermediate coupling rack, a rear wheel carrier, and a rear hanging rack. Every two adjacent sections amongst the five sections are manufactured and connected in a unified and standardized integrated mode; a modular combination structure is used; and the five sections, which are independent respectively, may be assembled and adjusted according to requirements, and have sufficient strength and stiffness as well as completely independent interchangeability. The vehicle frame has the advantages that match with the needs of an electric vehicle, and thus may be used as the optimum configuration frame for the electric vehicle; and the vehicle frame may be improved according to requirements to be applicable to various fuel and hybrid electric passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: SHANGHAI LUNLIANG MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL SCIENCE-TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yu Shi, Yanqi Xing, Jiatao Tian, Hui Liu, Taifeng Liu, Bingwen Yan, Tongchao Han, Guoxiang Shi
  • Patent number: 10189503
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a front side member, a body attachment structure and an off-center impact structure. The front side member defines a hollow interior, an outboard wall and an inboard wall. The body attachment structure is attached to the outboard wall of the front side member. The off-center impact structure has a first end portion, a second end portion and a main section extending from the first end portion to the second end portion. The first end portion extends through an outboard forward opening and into the hollow interior of the front side member and is rigidly connected to the front side member forward of the body attachment structure. The second end portion is attached to the front side member at a location rearward of the body attachment structure with the main section extending outboard of the body attachment structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Grattan
  • Patent number: 10189504
    Abstract: A vehicle pillar structure includes a pillar upper portion that extends along a vehicle height direction on a vehicle width direction outer side and is made of a transparent resin, and a pillar lower portion that is disposed on a the vehicle height direction lower side of the pillar upper portion, is made of metal, and is joined to the pillar upper portion at a joint portion. The joint portion between the pillar upper portion and the pillar lower portion includes an outer joint portion positioned on the vehicle width direction outer side, and an inner joint portion positioned on a vehicle width direction inner side. A height of the outer joint portion and a height of the inner joint portion are different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shin Terada, Atsushi Mikuni
  • Patent number: 10189505
    Abstract: A side body structure of a vehicle is provided, which includes a hinge pillar having a hinge pillar member forming, in a side part of the vehicle, a closed section space extending continuously in vertical directions of the vehicle, a side sill having a side sill member forming, on a rear side of the hinge pillar in the side part of the vehicle, a closed section space extending continuously in longitudinal directions of the vehicle, and a closed section space component forming, in a connecting part between a lower end part of the hinge pillar and a front end part of the side sill, a closed section space extending continuously in the longitudinal directions and connecting to the closed section space of the side sill on the rear side, the closed section space of the closed section space component having a vertical dimension that increases toward a front side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Narahara, Morihide Yamada, Takahiro Aonuma, Masaya Nishimoto, Nobuhiko Yokoyama, Atsushi Kawamoto
  • Patent number: 10189506
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a roof assembly including a roof outer panel having an outer facing surface and a sensor housing recess that extends below the outer facing surface. The sensor housing recess extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction between a front windshield and a rear windshield. A roof sensor housing assembly is mounted to the roof outer panel and extends along a length of the sensor housing recess. The roof sensor housing assembly includes a sensor housing structure that is mounted to the roof outer panel forming a sensor housing volume therebetween. The sensor housing structure extends at least partially above the outer facing surface of the outer roof panel. The sensor housing structure includes a transmission region that has increased transmittance therethrough compared to surrounding regions of the sensor housing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime N. Moore, Crystal J. Mink
  • Patent number: 10189507
    Abstract: A vehicle body front structure includes a front bulkhead. The front bulkhead includes a right side stay made of a resin and connected to a right front side frame, a right upper side beam made of a metal and extending from the right side stay to a right upper member, an upper beam made of a metal and detachably connected to the right upper side beam, and a hood lock device provided on the upper beam. The right end of the upper beam is connected in a state in which it clamps the right side stay in a vehicle body longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasunori Watanabe, Satoshi Saito
  • Patent number: 10189508
    Abstract: A two-track vehicle having a chassis on the lower face of which a component is arranged that is sensitive to scraping the road surface, the outer contour jutting out downward from the lower face of the chassis in the direction of the road surface by an offset variable and the component being covered by a base portion of a cover element to protect the component from scraping the road surface. At least one edge portion of the base portion of the cover element is laterally extended in a vehicle transverse direction, the edge portion forming a scraper stop that juts out downward from the cover element base portion in a direction onto the road surface by a vertical offset so that, when the lower face of the vehicle scrapes the road surface, the cover element base portion remains substantially out of contact with an interference contour on the road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Denis Dupper
  • Patent number: 10189509
    Abstract: There is provided a vehicular structure including (i) a vehicular panel member configured by resin including reinforcing fibers, and (ii) a joined portion of a vehicle body that supports, all the way around, a peripheral portion of a predetermined area of the panel member and to which the peripheral portion of the predetermined area is joined, wherein the panel member has a bulging shape where both front and back surfaces of the panel member bulge out such that the thickness of the panel member gradually becomes thicker from a peripheral end portion to a central portion within the predetermined area supported all the way around by the joined portion
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kai Aizawa, Masayuki Okano, Sho Sasaki
  • Patent number: 10189510
    Abstract: A stake pocket insert is structured to be positionable in a stake pocket of a vehicle cargo bed side wall. The stake pocket insert includes a stake receptacle defining a stake-receiving cavity and a mounting member secured to the stake receptacle and structured to define an opening leading from an exterior of the stake pocket insert into the stake-receiving cavity. A stake securement mechanism is mounted along a first portion of the stake pocket insert. The stake securement mechanism is structured to be operable to press against a stake positioned in the stake-receiving cavity so as to bias the stake against a bearing surface, thereby securing the stake within the stake receptacle between the stake securement mechanism and the bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher M. Higgins
  • Patent number: 10189511
    Abstract: A vehicle body barrier has a vertical support, a first non-movable board and a second non-movable board. The vertical support is configured to be received in a vehicle body. The first non-movable board is fixedly attached to the vertical support. The second non-movable board is fixedly attached to the vertical support and is vertically spaced from the first non-movable board. The movable board is movably connected to the first non-movable board between a primarily offset position and a primarily overlapping position. The movable board is disposed between the first and second non-movable boards in the primarily offset position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jose Luis Perez Bonilla
  • Patent number: 10189512
    Abstract: A mechanical linkage between operator input devices and actuators including a junction having a first portion operably coupled to an operator input device and a second portion operably coupled to an actuator. The first and second portions of the junction are connected when a cab is in an operating position and disconnected when a cab is in a service position. When connected, the first and second portions create a solid connection between the operator input device and the actuator. When the first and second portions are disconnected, the operator input will be not be operably coupled to the actuator. Movement of the cab to the operating position will cause the first and second portions to become connected and movement away from the operating position will cause the first and second portions to become disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Brian P. Dehnert, Ronald S. Hansen, Matthew J. Kaldor, Jeret L. Hoesel, Jonathan J. Roehrl
  • Patent number: 10189513
    Abstract: A method of controlling an active aerodynamic element for a vehicle includes determining a target position for the active aerodynamic element from a target aerodynamic force, which may be a given value that is provided based on dynamic conditions of the vehicle. The method actuates the active aerodynamic element to the target position and senses an aerodynamic response characteristic of the active aerodynamic element while actuated to the target position. An estimated applied aerodynamic force is determined from the aerodynamic response characteristic, and is compared to the target aerodynamic force. A force error is determined from the comparison of the estimated applied aerodynamic force and the target aerodynamic force, and a modified position for the active aerodynamic element is determined from the force error and the target aerodynamic force. The active aerodynamic element is actuated to the modified position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Edward T. Heil
  • Patent number: 10189514
    Abstract: The aerodynamic skirt assembly for attachment to a trailer may comprise a side skirt fairing, a transition, and a vented skirt fairing. The transition may be located aft of the side skirt fairing and forward of the vented skirt fairing. The vented skirt fairing may be located aft of the transition. The vented skirt fairing may comprise at least one longitudinal vent configured to allow air to flow therethrough. The vented skirt fairing may extend outwardly of the side of the trailer frame to accommodate the wheels. One or more mounting brackets may be used to couple the elongated skirt panel, the transition, and the vented skirt fairing to one or more transverse structural support members. A rear exhaust fairing may be located aft of the vented skirt fairing and coupled to one or more transverse structural support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Strehl, LLC
    Inventor: Richard P. Senatro
  • Patent number: 10189515
    Abstract: An aerodynamic control system includes a skirt assembly configured to be disposed between plural vehicles in a vehicle system formed from the plural vehicles with the vehicles separated by a spatial gap in the vehicle system. The skirt assembly can include a bladder configured to be inflated with a fluid by a fluid source disposed onboard the vehicle system to cause the skirt assembly to expand between the vehicles from a collapsed state to an expanded state such that the skirt assembly at least partially fills the spatial gap between the vehicles. The skirt assembly can reduce aerodynamic drag exerted on the vehicle system during movement of the vehicle system relative to the vehicle system moving without the skirt assembly in the expanded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Matthew John Malone, Gregory Wright
  • Patent number: 10189516
    Abstract: A vehicle aerodynamic assembly includes a first end plate, an airfoil including an outboard edge portion contiguous with the first end plate, and a first drainage channel extending through at least one of the first end plate and the outboard edge portion of the airfoil. The aerodynamic assembly may be mounted to a deck lid of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Stephen Sylvester, Andrew Thomas Cunningham, Matthew Arthur Titus
  • Patent number: 10189517
    Abstract: An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel(22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valuable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Magna Exteriors, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Povinelli, Martin R. Matthews
  • Patent number: 10189518
    Abstract: A track nut comprises a main body defining a central aperture with threads disposed in the central aperture, the aperture defining a cylindrical axis and a radial direction, a first end and a second end disposed along the cylindrical axis, and wherein the first end defines an at least partially circular perimeter and the second end defines a generally polygonal perimeter with a plurality of corners, the polygonal perimeter including at least one variable blend portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Mircea Dumitru, Jeffrey Paul Nash
  • Patent number: 10189519
    Abstract: Devices and methods for legged locomotion, including a robotic leg for spring-mass legged locomotion incorporating passive dynamics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jonathan Hurst, Mikhail Sobiegraj Jones, Andrew Martin Abate
  • Patent number: 10189520
    Abstract: A modular system for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, whereby the vehicle is to be provided with a selected instrument panel and at least one selected door, which can be arranged on the vehicle in a pivotal manner in order to close or release a vehicle door opening adjoining the instrument panel, whereby the modular system has at least two different instrument panels and/or at least two different doors for selection, whereby each instrument panel has a first joint region, and each door has a second joint region which corresponds to the first joint region such that each first joint region and the respective second joint region always form the same joint in the closed position of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Joerg Hinkfoth
  • Patent number: 10189521
    Abstract: A flow production system, in particular an assembly and/or production line includes a conveyor for conveying a workpiece along a conveying direction of the flow production system. A platform for use in flow production includes a guiding device and a processing device, wherein the platform is designed to be moved into and out of the flow production substantially as a whole. A method for operating a flow production system or a platform includes guiding a workpiece along the platform with the guiding device and processing the workpiece with the processing device during guiding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: KUKA Systems GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Mayr
  • Patent number: 10189522
    Abstract: An inner tube moves axially between an outer tube and a support, all of which are concentrically arranged, to a desired telescopic position, relative to the outer tube and the support, and can be locked in the desired telescopic position by applying radial force between the support and the inner surface of the inner tube. The radial force generates a frictional force acting on the inner surface of the inner tube, which resists longitudinal movement of the inner tube. A bicycle actuator cable is coupled to an actuator connector for a tension-controlled actuator by a bicycle cable connector which has a fixed longitudinal position on the bicycle actuator cable. The bicycle cable connector is longitudinally consistently removably repeatably interengageable with the actuator connector to maintain longitudinal alignment of the bicycle actuator cable with the actuator through repeated engagement and disengagement of the bicycle cable connector and the actuation connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Nine Point Eight Inc.
    Inventors: Jacobus Josef Pittens, Bradley James Woodward, Steven Andrew Park
  • Patent number: 10189523
    Abstract: There is described a handlebar mountable bicycle light for fitting to a bicycle handlebar (3) between brake levers (4). The bicycle light comprises an upper cover (5) and a lower cover (6) which are preferably made from injection molded plastics and of a clam shell type arrangement able to receive handlebar (3) and rigidly retain light pipe assembly (7) with cover screws (8). Lower cover (6) contains an aperture (14) through which the handlebar stem (9) extends. The light pipe assembly (7) comprises a transparent rod-like light pipe (18) with LEDs (26) mounted at each end of the light pipe (18). The light pipe assembly 7 further includes heat sinks (24) to draw heat away from the LEDs (26). The arrangement is such that when the bicycle light is mounted to the handlebar, the heat sinks (24) are in contact with the handlebar so that heat from the LEDs may be conducted via the heat sinks (24) to the handlebar material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Karbon Kinetics Limited
    Inventors: Richard Brian Thorpe, Peter Angiolini
  • Patent number: 10189524
    Abstract: An engine includes a first cylinder communicating with a first intake port and a first exhaust port, and an exhaust assembly coupled to the engine and including a first exhaust manifold coupled to the first exhaust port. The first exhaust manifold is angled relative to the first exhaust port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Indian Motorcycle International, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas J. Schafer, Jeffrey D. Oltmans, G. Jay McKoskey, Blaine D. Kaeser
  • Patent number: 10189525
    Abstract: A cam lever operated accessory gripping mechanism the gripping mechanism includes a cam lever, a threaded stud, a dowel fixed to a first end of the threaded stud, first and second relatively movable main body sections, the first of the main body sections including a handlebar bracket extension, a first clamping jaw for engaging a first side of the accessory, and an opening shaped to slidably receive the second main body section, and the second main body section including a bore and a slot for receiving a fastening member into which the threaded stud is threaded, and a second clamping jaw for engaging a second side of the accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Allen
  • Patent number: 10189526
    Abstract: A front structure for a saddle-riding vehicle includes a meter unit, a meter covering for covering at least an area forwardly of the meter unit, and a windshield disposed forwardly of the meter covering. When viewed from lateral side, the windshield is disposed having been rearwardly upwardly tilted. The windshield has a rear surface is of a curved shape in which a region from its opposite side end portions to an intermediate portion is bulged forwardly. The meter covering has a front wall so shaped as to have a forwardly protruding shape effective to divert sunlight, coming from rear and subsequently reflected from the windshield, away from the focal point of the reflected sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Wada, Takeshi Kashihara
  • Patent number: 10189527
    Abstract: A fuel supply device for a motorcycle having a fuel pump disposed on the outside of a fuel tank for saving with respect to an installation space and for making a fuel pipe connecting the fuel tank and the fuel pump shorter. A fuel supply device for a motorcycle includes a single main frame extending rearwardly from a head pipe; a fuel tank supported on the main frame; an internal combustion engine; a fuel injection device attached to the internal combustion engine; and a fuel supply portion having a fuel pump by which the fuel is supplied to the fuel injection device via a fuel pipe. The fuel pump is provided on the outside of the fuel tank and attached to the main frame in such a manner that an axial line in a direction in which to connect the fuel pipe is aligned along the main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Oto, Yuki Mizukura, Takeshi Shimura, Toshifumi Goto
  • Patent number: 10189528
    Abstract: A self-balancing double-wheeled electrical scooter is provided with an assembly for controlling a travel direction of the self-balancing double-wheeled electrical scooter, wherein, the travel direction of the self-balancing double-wheeled electrical scooter is controlled via a handle, a resilient recoverable component is provided between a scooter body and the handle, the handle is adapted for driving the resilient recoverable component to control the travel direction of the scooter, the resilient recoverable component comprises a stator (101), a rotor (112) and a resilient recoverable unit (111), the rotor (112) is mechanically connected to the handle in a fixed manner directly or indirectly, the stator (101) is mechanically connected to the scooter body (107) in a fixed manner directly or indirectly, the stator (101) and the rotor (112) are connected in a resilient manner via the resilient recoverable unit, the resilient recoverable component further comprises an angle limiting device, the angle limiting de
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: CHANGZHOU AIRWHEEL
    Inventor: Guogang Zuo
  • Patent number: 10189529
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tricycle for playing golf. The tricycle includes a foldable front half comprising a pair of steerable front wheels, a front frame supported between the pair of steerable front wheels, a pair of handlebar posts coupled to a pair of handlebar post tubes of the front frame, and a golf bag support assembly arranged on the front frame. The tricycle also includes a foldable rear half releasably coupled to the foldable front half. The foldable rear half includes a drivable rear wheel, a rear frame releasably coupled to the front frame, a chainwheel drive arranged on a down tube of the rear frame and operatively coupled to the drivable rear wheel, and a seat assembly arranged on a rear tube of the rear frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: G-TRIKE L.L.C.
    Inventor: Yaguang Wang
  • Patent number: 10189530
    Abstract: A bicycle handlebar assembly that includes a body having at least two grip areas positioned for interaction with the hands of a rider. The grip portions or grip areas are preferably spaced apart by a center portion that secures the assembly to a bicycle steerer tube. A channel or detent is formed in the body proximate at least one, and preferably proximate each grip portion or grip area. A dampener formed of a different material than the body is disposed in the detent and dissipates at least a portion of vibration of the body to reduce vibrations communicated to the hands of the rider from handlebar vibration. An optional grip assembly cooperates with the handlebar assembly and is constructed to further dampen handlebar vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Ryan Galstad, Jeffery Staszak, Michael Leighton, Allen Hu
  • Patent number: 10189531
    Abstract: A bicycle operating device comprises a hydraulic cylinder, a piston, and an operating unit. The hydraulic cylinder includes a cylinder bore. The piston is provided in the cylinder bore and is movable relative to the hydraulic cylinder. The piston is configured to receive a pulling force to generate a hydraulic pressure to a bicycle hydraulic component. The operating unit is configured to actuate at least one bicycle component different from the bicycle hydraulic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Takaaki Fujiwara, Kazutaka Fukao
  • Patent number: 10189532
    Abstract: A bicycle operating device comprises a base member, an operating unit, and a support shaft. The operating unit includes a rotatable member rotatable relative to the base member about a first rotational axis to control a bicycle component. The operating unit has a first operating unit end supported by the base member and a second operating unit end opposite to the first operating unit end along the first rotational axis. The support shaft extends in a direction non-parallel to the first rotational axis and couples the second operating unit end to the base member. The support shaft has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The first end and the second end are supported by the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Kentaro Kosaka, Shinji Kawamura, Yoshimitsu Miki, Naoki Fujimoto
  • Patent number: 10189533
    Abstract: A scooter having a front wheel and a rear wheel. A steering assembly includes a steering tube and a handlebar. A rear foot brake is configured to apply a braking force to at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel. A deck is configured to support the weight of a person. A frame is configured to support the deck. The frame comprises a plurality of frame members arranged to form at least two or more vertical planes on one or both lateral sides of the scooter. In some configurations, the rear foot brake is linked to a front brake and configured to actuate the front brake of the front wheel and apply a braking force to the rear wheel simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Bravo Sports
    Inventors: Jack B. Lovley, II, Joseph C. Klingl, Mark Groenhuyzen, Kenneth Edlauer
  • Patent number: 10189534
    Abstract: A chassis controller and method for controlling the damping of a human-powered two-wheeled vehicle having a controllable shock absorber and a control device and a memory device. A sensor device acquires measurement data sets relating to a relative movement of two connecting units of the shock absorber with respect to one another. A filter device pre-processes the measurement data sets. Multiple data sets are stored in the memory device. A data set, derived from a measurement data set acquired with the sensor device during the relative movement of the connecting units is stored and an analysis device analyzes a stored data set. A filter parameter set is determined based on the analysis, and a control data set is derived with the filter parameter set. The control device controls the shock absorber with the control data set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: DT Swiss Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Walthert, Valentin Wendel, Gernot Elsensohn, Juergen Poesel, Markus Mayer, Stefan Battlogg
  • Patent number: 10189535
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for providing rider control assemblies for adjusting and displaying pressure and height settings for vehicle air suspension devices, such as on adjustable air shocks and air struts, used in vehicles such as motorcycles. The assemblies can have a protruding eyelet portion that can be mounted to existing control panel clamps on motorcycle handlebars. The assemblies can have two part housings attached to one another by waterproof gaskets placed in opposite facing channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Arnott T&P Holding, LLC
    Inventors: Adam Arnott, Matt Edward Kirar
  • Patent number: 10189536
    Abstract: A bicycle disc brake caliper comprises a caliper body. The caliper body includes a slot in which a brake pad is arranged. The caliper body includes a first body portion, a second body portion, a mounting surface, a first receiving hole, a cylinder bore, and a second cylinder bore. The second body portion is coupled to the first body portion so as to provide a slot therebetween. The mounting surface is configured to face a pipe portion of a bicycle body in a mounted state where the bicycle disc brake caliper is mounted to the bicycle body. The first receiving hole is provided on the mounting surface. The first receiving hole is configured to be threadedly engaged with a fastener to mount the bicycle disc brake caliper to the bicycle body. The first cylinder bore is provided on the first body portion. The second cylinder bore is provided on the first body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Akira Kondou, Takuma Sakai, Hideki Ikemoto