Patents Issued in February 21, 2019
  • Publication number: 20190054916
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle control device and method capable of ensuring steering accuracy. In a vehicle provided with a left-right pair of steered wheels for which the braking/driving forces can each be controlled, and a steering force generation device that generates steering force for the steered wheels and controls the steering angle of the steered wheels, this vehicle control device and method control the steering force and the steering reaction force from the steering force generation device by controlling the braking/driving force of each of the steered wheels on the basis of the lateral force acting on the steered wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Yuki AKIYAMA, Junya TAKAHASHI, Toshiyuki INNAMI
  • Publication number: 20190054917
    Abstract: A method for actuating a drive assembly in a vehicle includes evaluating a signal of a surroundings-detection apparatus. The vehicle includes the surroundings-detection apparatus, which is configured to observe the surroundings of the vehicle. The method further includes executing a first monitoring function or executing a second monitoring function as a function of the evaluation of the signal of the surroundings-detection apparatus. The first and second monitoring functions are configured to avoid undesired movements of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Nicolas Sommer, Ronald Canisius, Juergen Pantring, Jens Werneth, Andreas Heyl
  • Publication number: 20190054918
    Abstract: A vehicular vision system includes a camera, a distance sensor and a controller having at least one processor, where image data captured by the camera and sensor data captured by the distance sensor are processed at the controller. The controller, responsive to processing of captured image data and of captured sensor data, detects an object. The controller determines the distance to the detected object based at least in part on difference between the positions of the detected object in captured image data and in captured sensor data. The controller, responsive to processing of captured image data and of captured sensor data, and responsive to the determined distance to the detected object, determines that the detected object represents a collision risk. The controller informs a driver of the vehicle of the collision risk and/or controls the vehicle to mitigate the collision risk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Yuesheng Lu, Joel S. Gibson, Duane W. Gebauer, Richard D. Shriner, Patrick A. Miller
  • Publication number: 20190054919
    Abstract: A driving mode switching device includes a determination section, a notification section, a detection section, and a control section. The determination section is configured to determine whether a state has occurred in which automatic driving needs to be terminated. The notification section is configured to notify a driver of the instruction for performing a switching operation as a predetermined operation of a vehicle in the case of determining, by the determination section, that the state has occurred in which the automatic driving needs to be terminated. The detection section is configured to detect the switching operation. The control section is configured to switch travelling from automatic driving to manual driving in the case of detecting the switching operation by the detection section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Noriyasu NOTO, Yasuhiko MUKAI, Hisaya AKATSUKA, Daisuke TOKUMOCHI
  • Publication number: 20190054920
    Abstract: A vehicle with autonomous driving capability is adapted for at least two different driving modes including a first driving mode configured for a first type of autonomous driving and a second driving mode configured for the autonomous vehicle being guided by a pilot vehicle in such a manner that the autonomous chicle follows the pilot vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mikael KARLSSON, Anders KELLSTRÖM
  • Publication number: 20190054921
    Abstract: A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle may include detecting, in a controller, a circumstance that a vehicle is rapidly decelerated and then rapidly accelerated; confirming that a transmission clutch slipped in the controller as a result of performing the detecting; reducing a driving torque and a motor speed while minimizing a hydraulic pressure of the transmission clutch in the controller, in the case that the transmission clutch has slipped as a result of performing the confirming; determining when the transmission clutch is available for synchronization in the controller while performing the reducing; and normalizing the hydraulic pressure of the transmission clutch and the driving torque in the controller, in the case that it is determined that the transmission clutch is available for synchronization as a result of performing the determining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Young Jun Lee, Jung Wan CHOI
  • Publication number: 20190054922
    Abstract: A system that performs a method is disclosed. The system determines one or more characteristics about an area surrounding a vehicle via one or more sensors (e.g., one or more characteristics about a road on which the vehicle is traveling and/or one or more characteristics about one or more other vehicles on the road) and that one or more vehicle passing criteria are satisfied. The system also determines whether passing is allowed on the road at a current location of the vehicle. In response to the determination of whether passing is allowed: in accordance with a determination that passing is allowed, the system performs an automated pass operation to pass one or more other vehicles. In accordance with a determination that passing is not allowed, the system forgoes performing the automated pass operation to pass the one or more other vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Veera Ganesh Yalla, Carlos John Rosario
  • Publication number: 20190054923
    Abstract: A sobriety ignition interlock system including an engine control device and a method for managing available vehicle engine power using the sobriety ignition interlock system. The engine control device includes an engine control processor (ECP) that is electronically connected in between an engine control unit (ECU), an engine sensor assembly, and a sobriety processor. The sobriety processor determines a sobriety level of a vehicle driver and sends a corresponding sobriety signal to the ECP. The ECP intercepts an engine signal transmitted from the engine sensor assembly to the ECU and manipulates the engine signal according to the sobriety signal, in order to manage the available power of the vehicle engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Daniel Jones
  • Publication number: 20190054924
    Abstract: A method to determine a roll angle (?E) of a vehicle, wherein the roll angle (?E) is calculated as a combination of at least a first roll angle variable (?1) and a second roll angle variable (?2), wherein the first roll angle variable (?1) is determined from an acquired rolling rate ({dot over (?)}m) of the vehicle using a first method, wherein the second roll angle variable (?2) is determined from one or more further vehicle movement dynamics characteristic variables using a second method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Gabor Ambruzs, Robert Weisz, David Szaloky
  • Publication number: 20190054925
    Abstract: A method and a device for specifying an operating strategy profile for the operation of a motor vehicle, and a method and a central database device for specifying a global geo-referenced operating strategy profile with regard to a driving route are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Joachim FROESCHL, Martin HATTENKOFER, Christian PICHLER
  • Publication number: 20190054926
    Abstract: An autonomous driving vehicle, which provides a driverless transportation service, includes: an authentication device that performs authentication of a user in the autonomous driving vehicle; an intention receiving device that receives information indicating intention of the user in the autonomous driving vehicle; and a control device that controls the autonomous driving vehicle. When maneuvering the autonomous driving vehicle to depart to a destination, the control device performs departure condition confirmation processing that prohibits the autonomous driving vehicle from departing until a departure condition is satisfied and permits the autonomous driving vehicle to depart when the departure condition is satisfied. The departure condition includes: a first condition that the authentication of the user by the authentication device is completed; and a second condition that the intention receiving device receives departure intention information indicating departure intention of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Masaki WASEKURA
  • Publication number: 20190054927
    Abstract: A method of displaying parking assist information is used in a parking assist apparatus comprising a display and a control device. The control device displays a first parking space in a first display form on the display. The first parking space satisfies a parking condition that is preliminarily defined. When it is estimated that the first parking space will not satisfy the parking condition or a second parking space other than the first parking space will satisfy the parking condition, the control device displays the first parking space in a second display form different from the first display form on the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Yasuhisa Hayakawa
  • Publication number: 20190054928
    Abstract: A vehicle control device includes: an automatic driving control unit that executes a first driving mode in which at least one of acceleration/deceleration, and steering of a host vehicle is automatically controlled in order for the host vehicle to travel along a route up to a destination; and a specific situation transition control unit that encourages a vehicle occupant of the host vehicle to transition to a second driving mode in which the degree of automatic driving is lower in comparison to the first driving mode by decelerating the host vehicle in a case of terminating execution of the first driving mode at a scheduled termination point of the first driving mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Kunimichi Hatano
  • Publication number: 20190054929
    Abstract: A passenger carrier of a transportation system includes a main body to carry a first group of passengers, a detachable departure compartment, detachably coupled to the main body, to carry a second group of passengers, and a processing device to issue a control signal to trigger a decoupling between the departure compartment and the main body, allowing the main body to travel along a first path without stop at a station and allowing the departure compartment to travel along a second path to enter and stop at the station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Shawn Yao, Qizhan Yao
  • Publication number: 20190054930
    Abstract: Examples for a traction system are provided. In one example, the traction system includes a nozzle coupled to an air source and configured to be selectively aimed toward a determined portion of a rail surface of a rail, and a conduit configured to supply pressurized air from the air source to the nozzle, the nozzle flexibly coupled thereto. The nozzle is configured for the aim of the nozzle to be controlled to change its aiming direction in response to a change in curvature of the rail, whereby a stream of air from the nozzle impacts the determined portion during movement of the vehicle through the curvature of the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Justin Winston, Adrian Jerzy Gorski, Bret Dwayne Worden, Brian Douglas Lawry, Matthew John Malone, Jennifer Lynn Coyne, Jeremy Thomas McGarry
  • Publication number: 20190054931
    Abstract: A rail vehicle includes an electric drive including a housing and power semiconductors arranged in the housing, and a braking system configured for operation with compressed air. The housing and the braking system are interconnected such as to enable supply of compressed air from the braking system to an interior of the housing. A depressurization device is arranged between the housing and the braking system such as to enable compressed air which is supplied to the housing to be depressurized prior to being supplied to the interior of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: ANDREAS FUCHS
  • Publication number: 20190054932
    Abstract: A robotic service device for a robotic picking system grid. The robotic service device can be configured for driving to any location on the grid in order to restart malfunctioning robotic load handling devices or to perform maintenance operations or cleaning in situ. Additionally, the service device may be used to rescue robotic load handling devices operational in the picking system. The robotic service device can include a releasable docking mechanism to enable it to dock and latch on to malfunctioning load handling devices. The service device can also be provided with a cleaning device and camera device to enable a condition of a grid and other robotic devices to be monitored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: OCADO INNOVATION LIMITED
    Inventors: Robert STADIE, Andrew John INGRAM-TEDD
  • Publication number: 20190054933
    Abstract: A vehicle body inclination controller includes an air spring, an air reservoir, valve devices, an acquisition section, and a determination section. The determination section compares, with a predetermined threshold, at least one of a value of a ratio between supply control information of a supply valve and exhaust control information of an exhaust valve in the same valve device among the valve devices, a value of a ratio between pieces of the supply control information of the supply valves of different valve devices among the valve devices, or a value of a ratio between pieces of the exhaust control information of the exhaust valves of different valve devices among the valve devices, and determines that a failure occurs in the same valve device or at least one of the different valve devices when the value of the ratio exceeds the predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: CENTRAL JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY
    Inventors: Toshikatsu TANASE, Tsukasa HOSOMI, Toru TATSUNO, Kota TERADA
  • Publication number: 20190054934
    Abstract: Articulated connectors are attached to and extend from center sills of adjacent car units of a multi-unit railroad freight car, connecting the car units to each other and to a shared truck. The center sill of each of the car units includes a top member that is of increased thickness at the outer end of the center sill. A weld extending along a shoulder that extends around the main body of s portion of the articulated connector attaches the articulated connector portion to the outer end of the center sill with ample strength to carry draft and buff train loads as well as the weight of the car unit and its lading, without the need for weld joints inside the center sill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Gunderson LLC
    Inventor: Gregory J. Saxton
  • Publication number: 20190054935
    Abstract: A parking brake control module using pneumatic logic to control a parking brake on a railway vehicle. The control module includes a brake pipe passageway, a reservoir passageway, a reservoir release valve, and an actuation cylinder vent valve. The control module applies or releases the parking brake based on pressures of the brake pipe and reservoir. A method uses pneumatic logic to control a parking brake on a railway car. The parking brake is applied when the brake pipe pressure falls below a lower brake pipe pressure threshold and is released when the brake pipe pressure exceeds an upper brake pipe pressure threshold and the reservoir pressure exceeds a reservoir pressure threshold. A hold valve can allow an operator to manually prevent the release of the parking brake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Edward W. Gaughan, William John Potter
  • Publication number: 20190054936
    Abstract: Traction and braking control system for a train set comprising a master locomotive, at least one slave locomotive and a plurality of carriages, in which each of the locomotives includes traction apparatus and braking apparatus associated with respective manually actuated control devices and a respective electronic control unit. The system is characterized in that the control unit in the master locomotive is associated with sensors designed to provide said control unit with signals indicating the speed and/or the acceleration of the locomotive and the commands given by the driver; memory modules storing data indicating the composition of the train set, data defining a mathematical model of the longitudinal dynamics of the train set, data defining a profile of the section on which the train set is travelling, and data defining at least one operational objective; positioning means for providing signals indicating the instantaneous position of the train set along the section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Roberto TIONE, Angelo GRASSO
  • Publication number: 20190054937
    Abstract: An aerial system control network, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system, and a method provide for inspecting railroad assets using a UAV. The aerial system control network includes a plurality of towers and a ground control system connected to the plurality of towers. The ground control system transmits, via a plurality of communication towers, a flight plan including a rail system and a flight path; receives, via the plurality of communication towers, data while the UAV is in monitoring the rail system; detects an interference along the flight path based on the received data, and adjusts the flight plan based on the interference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Todd Graetz, Gary Grissum, Michael Mischke
  • Publication number: 20190054938
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to vegetation detection and, in particular, to a vegetation detection and alert system for a railway vehicle
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Kris MATSON, Pascal DAY, Lloyd HINNANT, Alvaro Ortiz FERNANDEZ, Eduardo BACK
  • Publication number: 20190054939
    Abstract: An anomaly determination device includes a changeover force measurement unit that measures a changeover force output by a driving device, the driving device outputting a changeover force for switching a direction of a branch rail whose direction is variable, a voltage measurement unit that measures a voltage supplied to the driving device, a current measurement unit that measures a current flowing through the driving device, and an anomaly determination unit that determines whether or not there is an anomaly in the branch rail, there is an anomaly in the driving device, and there is an anomaly in power supplied to the driving device on the basis of the magnitude of the changeover force, the magnitude of the voltage, and the magnitude of the current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Hiroyuki KONO, Yukihide YANOBU, Takeshi KORA, Eisuke OKANO
  • Publication number: 20190054940
    Abstract: A preceding train identification method based on an object controller, includes: carrying out communication interaction, by a vehicle on board controller of a train, with the OC to acquire the ID information of all running trains within the jurisdiction of the OC, before the train enters the jurisdiction of the object controller OC; communicating, by the vehicle on board controller, with the train corresponding to each piece of ID information according to the ID information of all running trains to acquire the position information of the train corresponding to each piece of ID information; and sorting, by the vehicle on board controller, the position information of the trains corresponding to all ID information in an axle counter sorting manner to identify the ID information of an adjacent preceding train of a present train. A vehicle on board controller and a train are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Traffic Control Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Chunhai GAO, Bo LIU
  • Publication number: 20190054941
    Abstract: An inspection system for inspecting the track of an amusement ride with at least one rail. A vehicle is provided that is designed to ride along the track. The vehicle supports cameras. The cameras are positioned in unobstructed areas. The cameras image the rail from different angles as the vehicle rides along the track. The images recorded by the cameras are reviewed to identify any defect or issue with the rail or its supporting framework that may impact from the safety of the ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Robert Hydro
  • Publication number: 20190054942
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for decentralized train control. A decentralized train system may include a plurality of wayside control units, configured for placement on or near tracks in a railway network, and one or more train-mounted units, each of which being configured for use in a particular train. Each wayside control unit may obtain information corresponding to each train that passes within its communication range, and provide obtained train-related information to each train-mounted unit passing within its communication range. Each train-mounted unit may configured to receive train-related information from each wayside control unit that comes within its communication range, process the received train-related information, assess based on the processing of the train-related information conditions relating to operation of train within the railway network, and when at least one condition meets one or more particular criteria, perform or cause performing one or more responsive actions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Richard C. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20190054943
    Abstract: A charging cart assembly for transporting a refrigerant tank. The charging cart assembly including a frame assembly having a handle at an upper end of the frame assembly and two wheels rotatably mounted to the frame assembly. A swivel plate assembly is mounted to the frame assembly. The swivel plate assembly includes a tank securing device arranged and designed to secure the refrigerant tank to the swivel plate assembly. The swivel plate assembly with the refrigerant tank secured thereto has a generally upright position in which the refrigerant tank is in a generally upright position and has a generally inverted position in which the refrigerant tank is in a generally inverted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Mark McCann, JR.
  • Publication number: 20190054944
    Abstract: A loading frame includes a rectangular u-shaped frame with an opening at one side, forks extendable and retractable between the closed side and the open side of the U-shaped frame, loading frame wheels on one arm of the U-shaped frame, and a truck interface on the other arm of the U-shaped frame. The loading frame wheels and truck interface support travel of the frame in a direction other than the direction of travel of the forks between the open and closed sides of the U-shaped frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Mitchell Weiss
  • Publication number: 20190054945
    Abstract: A cart of the present disclosure has a frame, and the frame has a handle coupled to an axle and a cylindrical base. Further, the cart has at least two wheels coupled to the axle and at least a third wheel coupled to an underside of the cylindrical base. Additionally, the cart has a cylindrical housing removeably situated within the cylindrical base and a cylindrical insert removeably inserted within the cylindrical housing, the cylindrical insert configured for retaining at least one cleaning implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Mischa Bishop
  • Publication number: 20190054946
    Abstract: A walking-type electric carrier, comprising a handlebar, a driving mechanism, and a carrier frame that is connected to the driving mechanism; the handle bar comprises an armrest cross-bar, a vertical post that is vertically connected to the armrest cross-bar; the vertical post is connected to the driving mechanism; the vertical post is provided with a lifting handle, and the armrest cross-bar is provided with a detachable handle component; the handle component comprises a handle base and a handle body; the handle base and the handle body are detachably connected; the driving mechanism is controlled by the handle body to propel the carrier to move.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Diguo Yue
  • Publication number: 20190054947
    Abstract: A vehicle comprising a steering wheel; a steering switch disposed on the steering wheel; an other-vehicle-detector for detecting another vehicle; a tactile sensation presentation unit for presenting a tactile sensation to an operator by vibrating the steering switch; and a controller configured to, according to detection by the other-vehicle-detector, cause the tactile sensation presentation unit to vibrate the steering switch to present a tactile sensation to the operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: KYOCERA Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeto HATTORI, Kazuhiro MURAKAMI
  • Publication number: 20190054948
    Abstract: A steering column for a motor vehicle includes a case with a steering gear-side end and a steering wheel-side end. The case includes an outer casing tube in which an inner casing tube is arranged telescopically and in which a steering spindle is mounted rotatably about a longitudinal axis. The steering spindle includes a hollow shaft in which a steering shaft is arranged telescopically. The steering spindle is mounted rotatably in a rear bearing in the steering wheel-side end portion. A safety element may be arranged between the steering gear-side end of the case and the rear bearing between the case and the steering spindle, which leaves a circumferential radial safety distance between the case and steering spindle which is smaller than the radial distance between the case and steering spindle outside the safety element between the steering gear-side end of the case and the rear bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicants: THYSSENKRUPP PRESTA AG, thyssenkrupp AG
    Inventors: Matthias ANCELIN, Hieronymus SCHNITZER, Tobias HEEB
  • Publication number: 20190054949
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed for a standoff to be coupled to a telescoping steering column, the standoff configured to be mounted adjacent an end stop opening in the steering column and to prevent a flexible cover mounted above the steering column from entering the end stop opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Erik William Soderlind, Taras Palczynski
  • Publication number: 20190054950
    Abstract: A manual steering torque input is measured. A manual steering mode of a vehicle is actuated when the manual steering torque input is below a first torque threshold and above a second torque threshold for longer than a time threshold that is based on a vehicle speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mohamad Wajih Issam Farhat, Domenic Miccinilli, Jens Christiansen, Nathaniel Abram Rolfes
  • Publication number: 20190054951
    Abstract: A power source device includes a switching circuit configured to switch the power supply mode between a first power supply mode, in which power is supplied to a drive circuit for an electric motor by only a main power source, and a second power supply mode, in which power is supplied to the drive circuit utilizing both the main power source and an auxiliary power source. A control device includes: a first control unit that controls the switching circuit on the basis of a value that matches power consumption by the drive circuit; and a second control unit that switches the power supply mode to a second power supply mode by controlling the switching circuit during sailing stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toyoki SUGIYAMA
  • Publication number: 20190054952
    Abstract: Provided is a control device (14) for a power steering device including a steering mechanism (1) configured to transmit rotation of a steering wheel to a steered wheel, and an electric motor (13) configured to apply a steering force to the steering mechanism. The control device includes: a command signal calculation part (61) configured to calculate a motor command signal (Io) for control of driving of the electric motor, based on a state of steering of the steering wheel, and output the command signal to the electric motor; a vibration signal receiving part (69) configured to receive a vibration signal of the power steering device; and an abnormality determination part (63) configured to determine whether or not the power steering device is abnormal, based on a Y-axis acceleration signal (Gy) received by the vibration signal reception part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: HITACHI AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsuo SASAKI, Makoto GOTO
  • Publication number: 20190054953
    Abstract: A steering angle controller which controls an actual value to a desired value, wherein the steering angle controller outputs, as an output signal, an actuating signal for power electronics to control an electric servo motor, wherein the actual value is a steering angle or a measurement variable corresponding to the steering angle and the desired value is a steering angle request or measurement variable request, wherein the steering angle controller is assigned at least one memory which stores at least two different control algorithms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Dirk DREYER
  • Publication number: 20190054954
    Abstract: A system for detecting the position of a steering wheel of a motor vehicle, the system includes: a matrix-array optical detecting device, of the type known as a time-of-flight camera, enabling three-dimensional detection, the device including an infrared light source and a matrix-array optical sensor; and optical reference elements arranged on the rim of the steering wheel, on the side opposite the driver, the matrix-array optical detecting device being arranged in an instrument panel of the vehicle, and being configured to detect the optical reference elements on the steering wheel, and to deduce therefrom the adjustment position of the steering wheel at least depthwise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Pascal Clochard, Jérôme Wroblewski
  • Publication number: 20190054955
    Abstract: Systems and methods for an imaging system having a memory with a historical localization dictionary database having geo-located driving image sequences, such that each reference image is applied to a threshold to produce a binary representation. A sensor to acquire a sequence of input images of a dynamic scene. An encoder to determine, for each input image in the sequence, a histogram of each input image indicating a number of vertical edges at each bin of the input image and to threshold the histogram to produce a binary representation of the input image. A visual odometer to compare the binary representations of each input image and each reference image, by matching an input image against a reference image. Wherein the visual odometer determines a location of the input image based on a match between the input image and the reference image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Uros Kalabic, Karl Berntorp, Stefano Di Cairano
  • Publication number: 20190054956
    Abstract: A vehicle comprising: at least one electric motor configured for driving the vehicle; a battery pack configured to supply the electric motor with electric power for driving the vehicle; a vehicle body frame structure configured to form a main supporting structure of the vehicle; and a collision energy absorbing system configured to absorb collision energy in the event of an accident. The collision energy absorbing system comprises a first absorbing structure that is positioned between the battery pack and a front of the vehicle, wherein the first absorbing structure is configured to, in case the vehicle is subject to a head-on collision with an object, act against said object and absorb all or most of a collision energy of the battery pack without transferring said battery pack collision energy to the vehicle body frame structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Lars STENVALL
  • Publication number: 20190054957
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a frame and a rocker panel disposed adjacent the frame and separated therefrom by a gap. The vehicle further includes a structural restraint system that includes a deployable metal bag mounted on the frame facing the rocker panel and an inflator. The structural restrain system further includes a controller configured to, responsive to sensor inputs indicative of an impact on the rocker panel, energize the inflator to inflate the deployable metal bag to fill the gap and transfer force acting on the rocker panel to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Mohammad Omar FARUQUE, Yijung CHEN, Dean M. JARADI, S. M. Iskander FAROOQ
  • Publication number: 20190054958
    Abstract: In a first aspect, a B-pillar central beam made of steel which comprises hard zones and soft zones. Such soft zones have less mechanical strength than the hard zones. The B-pillar central beam further comprises an upper region with a fastening portion for fastening to a roof member, and a lower region with a fastening portion for fastening to a sill member. The B-pillar central beam includes two soft zones. A lower soft zone is located between the lower fastening portion and 50% of the B-pillar central beam height, and an upper soft zone is located between the upper fastening portion and 50% of the B-pillar central beam height. The upper soft zone has higher mechanical strength than the lower soft zone. Methods for manufacturing such B-pillar central beam are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Autotech Engineering A.I.E.
    Inventor: Sergi MARQUEZ DURAN
  • Publication number: 20190054959
    Abstract: An engine compartment support arrangement for an agricultural machine includes first and second support rails disposed within an engine compartment, a horizontal platform disposed between the first and second support rails and coupled thereto, and a plurality of engine accessory mounts welded to at least one of the first support rail and the second support rail. The first support rail includes a horizontal portion and an angled portion, wherein a second end of the horizontal portion is aligned with a first end of the angled portion. The second support rail includes a horizontal portion and an angled portion, wherein a second end of the horizontal portion is aligned with a first end of the angled portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Blaine Schwalbe, Lawrence R. Borucki, JR.
  • Publication number: 20190054960
    Abstract: A vehicle body assembly includes a frame having a forward frame part defining a passenger cabin and a rear frame part defining a load carrying bed. A separate rear fender is removably fastened to the rear frame part, wherein a gap is provided between the forward frame part and the rear fender. A separate rear fender fairing is mounted to an inside surface of the rear fender. The rear fender fairing includes a seal located in the gap and sealingly engaging both the forward frame part and the rear fender.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventors: Adam J. Rompage, Edward W. Bach, Kevin D. Helton, Steven U. Behm
  • Publication number: 20190054961
    Abstract: An exemplary tailgate assembly includes, among other things, a first gate pivotably coupled to a vehicle body, and a second gate pivotably coupled to the first gate. The second gate has an inner surface that faces a vehicle cargo bed when the second gate is in a closed position. The first and second gates are moveable to a step position where the inner surface is a step surface to the vehicle cargo bed. An exemplary method includes, among other things, pivoting a first and a second gate to a step position where an inner surface of the second gate is a step surface to a vehicle cargo bed. The inner surface faces the vehicle cargo bed when the second gate is in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Tom Thanh Ngo
  • Publication number: 20190054962
    Abstract: Disclosed are active variable-width aerodynamic spoiler assemblies, methods for making or for operating such active spoiler assemblies, and vehicles equipped with such active spoiler assemblies. A disclosed active spoiler assembly for modifying the aerodynamic performance of a motor vehicle includes a main body rigidly mounted to the vehicle body, extending transversely across the vehicle. The main body has an elongated construction with opposing longitudinal ends. First and second fins are each movably attached to a respective one of the opposing longitudinal ends of the main body. Also, first and second fin actuators are each attached to the vehicle body and attached to a respective one of the movable fins. The first fin actuator is selectively actuatable to independently move the first fin between respective retracted and extended positions, whereas the second fin actuator is selectively actuatable to independently move the second fin between respective retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Caleb J. Potvin, Jason D. Fahland
  • Publication number: 20190054963
    Abstract: This present invention relates to a spare tire mount on a vehicle, particularly for use on pick-up trucks and similar vehicles having an open cargo area. More particularly, the present invention relates to a spare tire mount which is held at an angle within a cargo bed area of a pick-up truck in which can be moved to an elevated position to allow for greater utilization of the cargo area of a pick-up truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Inventor: Shannon Cassell
  • Publication number: 20190054964
    Abstract: A track chain assembly comprises a plurality of track links connected to each other by either a track pin or a track bushing, a first master track link including a first interface region including a plurality of teeth, a second master track link including a second interface region including a plurality of teeth, and the first interface region and the second interface region are configured such that the plurality of teeth of both the first master track link and second master track link are configured to share substantially the same load when the track chain assembly is in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Eric James Johannsen
  • Publication number: 20190054965
    Abstract: A legged robot may seek to operate according to a target gait. The legged robot may include leg members and leg joints. Possibly based on the target gait and state of the legged robot, an ordered list of gait controllers may be obtained. The gait controllers in the ordered list may define respective gaits of the legged robot, and may include respective validity checks and output parameters for the respective gaits. The ordered list may begin with a target gait controller that defines the target gait. The ordered list may be traversed in order from the target gait controller until a validity check associated with a particular gait controller passes. The legged robot may be instructed to actuate the leg members and/or leg joints according to output parameters of the particular gait controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2018
    Publication date: February 21, 2019
    Applicant: BOSTON DYNAMICS, INC.
    Inventors: Benjamin Swilling, Eric Whitman, Stephen Berard, Alfred Anthony Rizzi, Alex Yu Khripin, Gina Christine Fay