Patents Issued in December 26, 2019
  • Publication number: 20190389506
    Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus includes: a torque sensor configured to detect a steering torque of a driver; a motor configured to assist in a steering force of the driver; a rotation angle estimation unit configured to estimate a rotation angle of the motor to output an estimated angle; a correction signal calculation unit configured to calculate a correction signal based on the steering torque; a frequency separation unit configured to separate the estimated angle into a first frequency component and a second frequency component; an estimated angle correction unit configured to calculate, as a control angle, a value obtained by adding a second-frequency-component corrected signal, which is obtained by correcting the second frequency component based on the correction signal, to the first frequency component; and an electric power supply unit configured to supply electric power to the motor based on the control angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yuya TSUCHIMOTO, Isao KEZOBO, Yuji TAKATSUKA, Akira FURUKAWA
  • Publication number: 20190389507
    Abstract: A motor control device controls driving of a motor, which outputs torque to a rack shaft as a load by rotation of a shaft fixed to a rotor. The motor control device has a rotation stress check unit for determining a rotation stress indicating a rotation stress, which is applied inversely from the load to a protection target member such as a shaft, bearing and oil seal related to the rotation of the shaft or torque transmission to the load. The rotation stress check unit determines the rotation stress is excessive based on that an absolute value of a rotation evaluation value exceeds a stress threshold value. The rotation evaluation value is a rotation angular velocity, a rotation angular acceleration or a related value corresponding to the rotation angular velocity or the rotation angular acceleration. The stress threshold value is set to be larger than an absolute value of an upper limit value realized in normal drive control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Yuta MURAKAMI, Toru OIWA, Koji ISOGAI
  • Publication number: 20190389508
    Abstract: According to one or more embodiments of the present invention a steer by wire steering system includes a deviation detection unit configured to determine a deviation signal that is indicative of a disturbance in one or more components coupled to a rack. The steer by wire steering system further includes a handwheel notification module configured to generate a modification signal based on the deviation signal, in response to the deviation signal being detected for at least a predetermined duration. The steer by wire steering system further includes a handwheel control module that generates an input command corresponding to a reference torque generated by a road wheel actuator, a feedback torque for a driver is generated based on the input command. The handwheel control module further modifies the input command using the modification signal, the modification providing a notification corresponding to the disturbance to the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Tejas M. Varunjikar, Prerit Pramod, Julie A. Kleinau, Michael Eickholt, Rangarajan Ramanujam, Dennis B. Skellenger, Steven D. Klein
  • Publication number: 20190389509
    Abstract: An emergency steering apparatus of an MDPS (Motor Driven Power Steering) system may include: a steering angle sensor configured to sense a steering angle of a steering wheel; a vehicle speed sensor configured to sense a vehicle speed; an assist rack force detector configured to detect an assist rack force of the MDPS system using the steering angle sensed by the steering angle sensor and the vehicle speed sensed by the vehicle speed sensor; and a command current detector configured to detect a command current of a motor using the assist rack force detected by the assist rack force detector
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Tae Hong KIM
  • Publication number: 20190389510
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of controlling a vehicle (1) in which rear road wheels (2b) are driven. The method includes: a step of selecting a first pedal mode in which an acceleration is set based on a depression amount of an accelerator pedal, or a second pedal mode in which the acceleration and a deceleration are set; a step of setting a basic torque based on a driving state of the vehicle; a step of setting an incremental torque to allow the basic torque to be increased in accordance with an increase in steering angle; and a step of generating a torque which is determined by adding the incremental torque to the basic torque, wherein the incremental torque setting step includes setting the incremental torque to different values between when the first pedal mode is selected and when the second pedal mode is selected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daisaku OGAWA, Daisuke UMETSU, Fuminori KATO
  • Publication number: 20190389511
    Abstract: A mechanism for swinging and steering a support leg for a pavement milling machine is provided having a milling machine frame, a swing rod, a steering rod, a first guiding rod and a second guiding rod, the support leg includes a support leg exterior sleeve and a interior sleeve, the support leg exterior sleeve is sleeved onto the support leg interior sleeve, the support leg interior sleeve rotates relative to the exterior sleeve; one end of the swing rod is hinged to the milling machine frame, and the other end is fixedly connected to the exterior sleeve; one end of the second guiding rod is hinged to the milling machine frame, the other end is hinged to one end of the first guiding rod, the other end of the first guiding rod is hinged to one end of the steering rod, and the other end of the steering rod is connected to the support leg interior sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Biao Zhang, Jixue Chen, Tingjian Xu
  • Publication number: 20190389512
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicle body front structure capable of ensuring both driver visibility and collision performance. This vehicle body front structure comprises: a front pillar which has an A-pillar, an A?-pillar located behind the A-pillar, and a lower frame portion connecting the lower ends of the A-pillar and A?-pillar; and a top-side upper member which is disposed above a wheelhouse and connected to a lower-frame-portion upper member connecting portion. Ridge lines are formed across the upper member connecting portion, the lower frame portion, and the A?-pillar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Raika KAWATSU, Takehiro ISHIHARA, Takuya MORISAWA, Yoshikazu SHOI
  • Publication number: 20190389513
    Abstract: A bracket for use in supporting a module within a vehicle. The bracket includes a first end, a second end, and a bracket body extending between the first end and the second end. The bracket body includes at least one attachment point defined at each of the first end and the second end, a first side that defines a mounting surface, and a second side opposite the first side. The bracket body also includes a reinforced side wall that extends about the at least one attachment point. The reinforced side wall is configured to define a bushing receptacle on both the first side and the second side of the bracket body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Evan D. Flickinger, Nobuteru Fujii, Akihiko Koike, Michael D. Lucas
  • Publication number: 20190389514
    Abstract: A vehicle body rear floor structure includes a rear floor panel arranged on a vehicle body rear portion, and a rear crossmember being mounted on the rear floor panel and extending in the vehicle width direction. The rear crossmember is formed as separate parts in advance, including a crossmember-front and a crossmember-rear arranged on a rear side of the crossmember-front, wherein the crossmember-front and the crossmember-rear are separate parts before forming the rear crossmember and are integrally joined to form the rear crossmember.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Kazuhiro MARU
  • Publication number: 20190389515
    Abstract: The support stiffness of a suspension supporting portion can be improved to reduce floor vibration. Arm front-end supporting portions, each supporting a front end portion of a trailing of a rear suspension, are formed on lower portions of rear frames extending in a vehicle longitudinal direction, and each include a squared U-shape portion including outer, inner and front wall portions, with a rear side being open when viewed from the bottom, and an extending outer wall portion extending from the outer wall portion to in front of the front wall portion. The outer wall portion and extending outer wall portion are formed by a side sill inner portion joined to each rear side frame. Also, each arm front-end supporting portion includes an extending inner wall portion extending from the inner wall portion to in front of the front wall portion and joined to each of the rear side frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeru NAKAUCHI, Masanobu HANAZAKI, Toshio KIMURA, Sho KUROKAWA, Kinya SAKAGUCHI, Kouki SATO, Yosuke YABUMOTO, Hiroshi MATSUBARA, Yohei IZUMI, Kentaro NOMURA
  • Publication number: 20190389516
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a truck, a deck gate for truck, and a method for manufacturing thereof. According to the present invention, the deck gate for truck has excellent impact strength, low plastic deformation rate, excellent molding property and thermal resistance, and reduces weight. Also, the deck gate for truck according to the present invention reduces weight of about 23% in comparison with a conventional steel and wood type deck gate for truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: DONG WON KIM, WOO JIN JUNG, CHANG HUN LEE, HYUN KYU SHIN, DAE IL LEE, JIN WOOK HAN
  • Publication number: 20190389517
    Abstract: A movable wing assembly 10 has a wing 20 capable of moving laterally (left or right) on a vehicle as the vehicle is being driven such the positioning of the wing 20 on the assembly 10 corresponds to the optimum or desired downforce required by the vehicle for the driving action undertaking by the vehicle at that time, e.g. if cornering to the left the wing 20 is positioned to the left L on the assembly 10 or if cornering to the right the wing 20 is positioned to the right R on the assembly 10 or if driving straight the wing 20 is positioned midway M on the assembly 10. The wing 20 is attached to a carriage 50 moveable on a elongate beam 40 mounted to a vehicle such that the wing 20 is able to move relative to the vehicle as the vehicle is moving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: SHIFT WINGS LIMITED
    Inventor: Nicholas Gerard MAARHUIS
  • Publication number: 20190389518
    Abstract: Provided is a gyro cart which is stably maintained in posture through a relatively simple structure when the gyro cart turns. The gyro cart includes a body, a pair of gyro units each including a rotatable flywheel and installed at both ends with respect to a running direction of the body, a steering device formed at the body and rotated by a driver to control a running direction of the body, a direction detecting unit detecting whether the steering device is rotating, a rotation direction of the steering device, and a rotation degree of the steering device, and a controller selectively operating the flywheel included in the gyro unit according to whether the steering device is rotating, the rotation direction of the steering device, and the rotation degree of the steering device detected by the direction detecting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Sung Eun YUNG
  • Publication number: 20190389519
    Abstract: A vehicle combining the attributes of a tractor and a utility vehicle includes a three point linkage and other locations to which a plurality of attachments for performing grooming or working operations on a ground or turf surface may be couple. The vehicle includes a front mounted engine, a mid-mounted operator compartment and a rear mounted bed or box. A PTO shaft and/or a hydraulic power system of the vehicle power attachments that require power. A control system and a visual display and data entry device linked thereto are provided for allowing an authorized person to setup, store and thereafter use an operational profile for each attachment that is to be coupled to the vehicle. In a rate dependent attachment, the control system maintains the ground speed and the attachment implement in a fixed ratio. A down/up control is used to signal the start and end of an operational sequence to the control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Rex R. Bergsten, Kelly S. Meemken, Jackie R. Gust, Garrett V. Pommeranz, Brandon J. Anderson, Jeffrey J. Barkow, David J. Scherbring
  • Publication number: 20190389520
    Abstract: A replacement mobility assembly for a walk-behind, powered device (10) may include first and second drivable components, a mobility assembly frame, and an adaptation assembly. The powered device may be provided with an original mobility assembly (40) that is to be removed from coupling with a drive assembly and a chassis (15) of the powered device prior to installation of the replacement mobility assembly. The first and second drivable components may each be of a different type than corresponding drivable components of the original mobility assembly. The first and second drivable components may be operably coupled to the mobility assembly frame. The adaptation assembly may be configured to enable the mobility assembly frame to be operably coupled to the chassis and the first and second drivable components to be operably coupled to the drive assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Kenneth Mandeville
  • Publication number: 20190389521
    Abstract: An isolation system for a vehicle having a rear frame attached to a front frame. The rear frame supports a greater portion of a total force applied to the vehicle than the front frame. The isolation system includes at least one isolating device positioned between the rear and front frames. The isolating device supports a portion of the total force applied to the vehicle in a direction in which the isolating devices is positioned. The isolation system includes a force limiting device positioned near the isolating device and a motion limiting torque rod attached to the rear and front frames. The force limiting device limits the amount of load applied to the isolating device above a maximum load. The motion limiting torque rod prevents or limits movement of the rear frame relative to the front frame in the direction in which it is aligned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Mark J. Cherney
  • Publication number: 20190389522
    Abstract: A track link assembly comprises a plurality of link subassemblies. Each link subassembly may include a pair of links coupled together. Each link may include a first aperture and a second aperture, and the second aperture of each link may be larger than the first aperture. The track link assembly may include a pin element extending through the first aperture of a first link and the second aperture of a second link in each link subassembly. The track link assembly may include a bushing element with a central opening. The bushing element may surround a portion of the pin element and extend through the second aperture of the second link of each link subassembly. The bushing element may include at least one hole configured to couple a track shoe to the bushing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Galat, Temitope O. Akinlua
  • Publication number: 20190389523
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a running gear chain (2), in particular a bogie chain (2), having a flexible body (20), preferably an elastomer body (20), which is closed in endless fashion, or closable in endless fashion, in a running direction (A). The running gear chain (2) according to the invention is characterized by a multiplicity of rigid transverse elements (24) which are connected to the outer side of the flexible body (20) and extend substantially transversely with respect to the running direction (A), wherein at least some of the rigid transverse elements (24), preferably all of the rigid transverse elements (24), are arranged so close together in the running direction (A) that, with a planar extent of the flexible body (20), two immediately adjacent rigid transverse elements (24) make contact in the running direction (A).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: ContiTech Transportbandsysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Carsten Behrens, Olaf Kluth
  • Publication number: 20190389524
    Abstract: A notification system notifies brake-related information related to braking of a rotation body of a human-powered vehicle. The notification system includes a notification unit that includes a notification device configured to notify a user of the brake-related information. The notification device is provided on at least one of a brake device braking the rotation body, an operation device operating the brake device, and a display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Takafumi NISHINO
  • Publication number: 20190389525
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, a front wheel, a handle, a pair of left and right first front lights, and a pair of left and right second front lights. The front wheel is supported by the vehicle body frame. The handle is located farther to the rear than a rotation axis of the front wheel, and is operated by an occupant to turn the front wheel. The pair of left and right first front lights extend linearly in the left-right direction, and are located farther to the rear than a front end of the front wheel and farther to the front than the handle. The pair of left and right second front lights are provided separately from the first front lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Kazunari TAKATA
  • Publication number: 20190389526
    Abstract: A motorcycle has an adjustable windshield assembly including a windshield and a first adjustment device. The first adjustment device is designed for selectively moving the windshield between a base position and a protection position. The windshield is arranged in the protection position in order to protect at least one headlamp of the motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Patrick LEUCHTE
  • Publication number: 20190389527
    Abstract: A preferred IR-bicycle comprises an infrared (IR) sensor and non-IR electronics. The IR sensor detects a person in the proximity of the IR-bicycle (i.e. a nearby person). Once the IR sensor detects a nearby person, the non-IR electronics switches from a first mode to a second mode, wherein the power consumption in the first mode is substantially lower than that in the second mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: HangZhou HaiCun Information Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guobiao ZHANG, Chuan TANG
  • Publication number: 20190389528
    Abstract: A folded bicycle frame comprising a single and continuous sheet of metal is disclosed. The bicycle frame is formed by cutting the sheet of metal to form a boundary, hydroforming the sheet of metal to create a profile comprising indentations and protrusions along the sheet of metal, and then folding the molded sheet essentially along its axis of symmetry, such that the symmetrical parts of the sheet are positioned next to each other to form the frame with a hollow interior. Holes are precut in the frame so that other bicycle parts may be attached to the frame. The frame is produced without the need for any welding or connecting of individual parts. Thus, it is stronger than conventional bicycle frames which are weaker at such welded connections of their parts. A method for making the folded frame is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Alexander BUZOV
  • Publication number: 20190389529
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Jack B. Lovley, II, Joseph C. Klingl, Mark Groenhuyzen, Kenneth Edlauer
  • Publication number: 20190389530
    Abstract: A drop-out mounting structure of a bicycle frame to inhibit a drop-out member from being separated from the bicycle frame is disclosed. The drop-out mounting structure of the bicycle frame for mounting a drop-out member as a wheel mounting unit to a drop-out mounting unit of a bicycle frame through a bolt may include an assembly slot formed at the drop-out mounting unit to insert the drop-out member inside the drop-out mounting unit and a stopper unit formed at an upper end part of the drop-out member with a length that is longer than an opening end of the assembly slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Jungnam CHOI
  • Publication number: 20190389531
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bicycle frame (1) with a remote-controlled shock absorber (2) connected to the frame (1). The shock absorber (2) comprises two dials (3, 4) for adjusting the compression and rebound. The frame (1) is characterised in that it comprises a depression (9; 25) communicated with the outside of the frame (1) and provided with a window (12; 28) that communicates the depression (9; 25) with an inner part (8b; 18b) of the frame (1). An actuator element (7) for adjusting the compression dial (3) extends from the outside of the frame (1) towards the window (12; 28) passing through the inner part (8b; 18b) of the frame (1). The invention improves the integration of the rear suspension of the bicycle while simultaneously allows for easy adjustment of the compression dial (3) and the rebound dial (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Mikel BERGARA URCELAI
  • Publication number: 20190389532
    Abstract: A mobility device includes a sidecar and a tilting vehicle including a two-wheeled bicycle, and may further include: an articulated link member including multiple link arms configured to link a vehicle body of the tilting vehicle and a body of the sidecar. In particular, linkage movements of the respective multiple link arms provide upward and downward movements, and leftward and rightward tiltings of the sidecar when a center of gravity of the vehicle body moves leftward and rightward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jungnam CHOI, Sung Dae LIM
  • Publication number: 20190389533
    Abstract: An actuating device is part of a bicycle hydraulic operating system that also includes an additional actuating device and a hydraulic operated device. The hydraulic operated device includes a slave cylinder fluidly connected to an additional master cylinder of the additional actuating device such that operation of an additional operating member of the additional actuating device moves the slave piston. The actuating device includes an operating member, a master cylinder, a master piston and a fluid port. The fluid port fluidly connects the master cylinder to the slave fluid port such that operation of the operating member moves the slave piston. The actuating device has no fluid reservoir. The master cylinder of the actuating device is fluidly connected to the additional master cylinder of the additional actuating device at a point upstream of the fluid port with respect to a flow of hydraulic fluid towards the hydraulic operated device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Osamu KARIYAMA, Takahiro YAMASHITA, Masahiro NAKAKURA
  • Publication number: 20190389534
    Abstract: The Compound Torque Multiplying Lever Propelled Bicycle uses two force multiplying machines to generate a large amount of torque to be applied directly to the sprocket of the rear wheel. This machine uses a lever machine as a means of mechanical advantage and a two gear combination machine as a means of mechanical advantage. In this configuration, the input gear is always larger than the output gear or sprocket. Furthermore, because the load of each lever machine is moved away from the fulcrum and closer to the pedals, less material is needed to reinforce the lever machines from the inside; thus, they are lighter. Furthermore, because the sprockets used to increase torque and range are smaller in diameter, they are then lighter, which would result in a bicycle that is lighter, having consistent increased torque from pedal peak to pedal base with a substantial amount of range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Rashad Na'im Scarborough
  • Publication number: 20190389535
    Abstract: Presented herein are adaptive power assist systems for manually-powered vehicles, methods for operating/constructing such systems, and motor-assisted, operator-powered vehicles with input torque filtering for adaptive power assist operations. A method for regulating a power assist system includes a vehicle controller receiving torque sensor data indicative of user-generated torque input. The vehicle controller then determines: if the torque input is less than a commanded motor torque generated by a tractive motor; and, if a calibrated motor decay time of the tractive motor is less than a scaled cadence time of the user's cadence speed. Responsive to both determinations being positive, the vehicle controller calculates a torque decay factor based on the current cadence speed, and modifies the commanded motor torque based on this calculated torque decay factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Douglas J. Moening, John Corn, Adam J. Heisel
  • Publication number: 20190389536
    Abstract: A synchronized transmission, which can be used aboard a vehicle and in particular a motorcycle, wherein the crankshaft actuated by the engine and the driven shaft, connected to a rear wheel, are substantially parallel therebetween, the driven shaft receiving the motion from a primary shaft kinematically connected to the crankshaft, wherein the primary shaft has at least one toothed wheel, which transmits the motion to said driven shaft, arranged on a driven bushing assembled on the primary shaft, the primary shaft comprising a passing-through axial channel wherein an actuation stem is inserted, comprising a clutch, acting on said driven bushing and actuated axially through said stem, which makes said driven bushing integral to the motion transmission so as to exclude the reversibility of the free wheel itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Luca NUTI, Walter MARIOTTI
  • Publication number: 20190389537
    Abstract: A multi-wheel bicycle with a dual universal joint disposed on a bicycle frame, wherein a first end of the universal joint is mounted to the bicycle frame and a second end of the universal joint is mounted on a moveable end of a bicycle steering fork. A front drive chain is couple from the universal joint to a front tire disposed on a free-wheeling front hub, and a second drive chain is coupled from the first end to a drive sprocket. The drive sprocket is further coupled to a free-wheeling hub attached to a front tire. The coupling provides for transfer of rotational power from the drive sprocket to the front and rear tires through the dual universal joint even as the universal is flexed through its range of motion while steering the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Traction Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John Place, Robert Lobue
  • Publication number: 20190389538
    Abstract: A high performance synchronous transmission to be used aboard a motorcycle for transmitting the motion generated by an engine to a driving wheel, between a crankshaft and a hub shaft parallel therebetween and perpendicular to the median plane of the motorcycle, comprising on the crankshaft a centrifugal clutch, for the automatic engagement of the first speed above a predetermined rotation regime, and a driving pulley apt to transmit the motion through a subsequent kinematic chain, is provided with a coupling between crankshaft and driving pulley which connects them directly, by determining with its own engagement the exclusion of said centrifugal clutch, said coupling being controlled in disengagement when a control lever is in active position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Walter MARIOTTI, Luca NUTI
  • Publication number: 20190389539
    Abstract: A structure for reducing the drag of a ship and its application thereof is provided. The structure for reducing the drag of a ship includes at least one turbulence generating structure which is installed on the side surface between the widest section and the aft end or on the bottom surface between the deepest portion and the aft end of the ship. The arrangement of the turbulence generating structure can generate turbulence to reduce the drag of the ship, and thereby increase the speed of the ship and/or reduce the ship's fuel consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Chen-Hsin MEI
  • Publication number: 20190389540
    Abstract: A skeg mounts from the stern of a towing vessel and extends below the waterline. A channel in the skeg protects cables for steamers and a source of a seismic system deployed from the vessel. Tow points on the skeg lie below the water's surface and connect to towlines to support the steamers and source. A floatation device supports the source and tows below the water's surface to avoid ice floes. The streamers can have vehicles deployed thereon for controlling a position on the streamer. To facilitate locating the streamers, these vehicles on the streamers can be brought to the surface when clear of ice floes so that GPS readings can be obtained and communicated to a control system. After obtaining readings, the vehicles can be floated back under the surface. Deploying, using, and retrieving the system accounts for ice at the surface in icy regions. In addition, handling the seismic record can account for noise generated by ice impact events.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Joseph R. Gagliardi, Shawn Rice, Curt Schneider, Jeffrey W. Cunkelman, Timothy A. Dudley, Dale Lambert, Mike Burnham
  • Publication number: 20190389541
    Abstract: A collapsible watercraft comprises a foldable sheet and is transitionable between a deployable kayak configuration and a stowed configuration by folding or unfolding along predefined fold lines in the foldable sheet. In the kayak configuration, the watercraft is switchable between at least a single-seat configuration and a tandem configuration by installing a desired number of seat and footrest assemblies. At least some of the seat and footrest assemblies are installed in the kayak by strapping seat and/or footrest components to loops nonreleasably attached to removable floorboards of the kayak. The removable floorboards are installed in the kayak using extruded engagement profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Oru Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Anton Michael WILLIS, Forrest Nelson HARVEY, Stefania CARGNELLO
  • Publication number: 20190389542
    Abstract: A boat netting system has a boat net that is particularly shaped to fit a boat in order to facilitate securement of cargo or other contents on the boat during storage or transit. The boat netting system may further enhance integrity and security of an existing boat cover by being placed over the existing boat cover. A net perimeter of the boat net is coextensive with a gunwale of the boat, and a plurality of fastening elements distributed about the net perimeter may be removably attached to the gunwale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Daren Karl Brooks
  • Publication number: 20190389543
    Abstract: A device includes at least one float. The at least one float is configured to provide a buoyancy force away from a seabed when placed in water. The device also includes an enclosure configured to house the at least one float. The enclosure comprises at least one connection configured to couple the enclosure to a self-elevating unit used in offshore oil operations or offshore gas operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: James Charles Cain, Richard Robert Roper, Mason Corey Melkowits, Steve Brady
  • Publication number: 20190389544
    Abstract: Boat configurations and implementations are provided to make it more accessible for disabled people to participate in boating, commercial or recreational. A boat engine may be positioned in front of the helm, a flat boat deck may allow access to the engine and helm by a person in a wheelchair or similar physical impairment, and a flat access to the boat deck at the stern of the boat may allow disabled people to easily get on board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: THOMAS GRIFFIN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Griffin
  • Publication number: 20190389545
    Abstract: The systems and methods described herein provide hands free motor control mechanisms based on the natural and inherent movements associated with an activity of interest, and can be combined with gesture communication based upon defined movements by the participant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Mark Ries Robinson, Elena A. Allen
  • Publication number: 20190389546
    Abstract: A system and method in which a buoyant central docking station captures, lifts and couples one or more other sea vessels is disclosed, wherein a flexible, modularized production system is quickly realized on a cost effective basis. The capabilities of a number of older, less expensive, readily available vessels are combined to achieve an effective FPSO substitute that allows lower producing fields to be explored and produced in a profitable manner. The time horizon between initiation and consummation of field operations is reduced, and older vessels that might otherwise be scrapped or retired are again made useful and seaworthy in a safe and profitable exploration and production environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Anadarko Petroleum Corporation
    Inventors: Keith K. Millheim, Eric E. Maidla, Charles H. King
  • Publication number: 20190389547
    Abstract: A life vest pouch is closed by overlapping panels. A male panel is attached to an upper face portion and includes three inserted flaps and a female panel is attached to a lower face portion and includes four cuts. Two center cuts are vertical and receive opposite ends of a center flap and two outer cuts receive outer flaps. The opposite ends of the center flap are generally triangular and overlap the outer flaps. The panels are made from polycarbonate or the like. The pouch is opened by pulling a strap attached to the lower face portion. A tamper proof seal is attached to both upper and lower face portions and is torn if the pouch is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Courtney Tassie
  • Publication number: 20190389548
    Abstract: An inspection vehicle operable for performing one or more maintenance and repair operations in a housing filled at least partially with a liquid medium is disclosed in the present application. The inspection vehicle includes a propulsion device operable in the liquid medium and includes at least one sensor operable for sensing and transmitting data associated therewith. A control system including an electronic controller is in electronic communication with the inspection vehicle to transmit and receive communication signals to/from the inspection vehicle. One or more maintenance tools operable with the inspection vehicle are configured to perform maintenance and/or repair operations within the liquid filled housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Gregory A. Cole, William J. Eakins, Daniel I. Lasko, Harshang Shah, Thomas A. Fuhlbrigge, Luiz V. Cheim, Poorvi Patel, Biao Zhang, Saumya Sharma, Andrew Salm
  • Publication number: 20190389549
    Abstract: A retractable thruster assembly for a marine vessel has a propeller unit, a motor, a housing and a drive shaft linking the motor with the propeller unit. An actuator is operable to move the propeller unit from the storage configuration to a deployment configuration in a direction from inboard to outboard, the propeller unit being extended from the hull for use in the deployment configuration. The drive shaft comprises a motor-side universal joint for attachment to the motor and a propeller-side universal joint for attachment to the propeller unit. The universal joints permit folding of the drive shaft at least in the storage configuration. A motor-side telescopic section is disposed adjacent the motor-side universal joint. A propeller-side telescopic section is disposed adjacent the propeller-side universal joint. An intermediate telescopic section is disposed between the motor-side telescopic section and the propeller-side telescopic section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: Sean Daniel WILSON, Nicholas HENLY
  • Publication number: 20190389550
    Abstract: A watercraft propulsion device for protecting marine life includes a tube that is coupled to a hull of a marine vessel. The tube has a front end and a back end that are open. The front end is circumferentially larger than the back end so that the tube is tapered. An impeller assembly is positioned in the tube. The impeller assembly is operationally coupled to a drive shaft of the marine vessel. A power plant of the marine vessel is positioned to rotate the impeller assembly concurrently with the drive shaft to increase a pressure and a flow of water through the tube to generate thrust to propel the marine vessel. A grate is coupled to a front perimeter of the tube so that the grate covers the front end. The grate is configured to deter entry of a marine organism into the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Jerry Hegel
  • Publication number: 20190389551
    Abstract: An underwater propulsive device of a watercraft including a flotation unit on which a user rides. The propulsion device includes: a hollow body coupled to the flotation unit through a strut and extending in a propulsive direction of the watercraft, the inside of the hollow body being divided into a first compartment and a second compartment; a motor in the first compartment; a propeller in the second compartment; and a power transfer shaft extending in the propulsive direction and connecting the motor and the propeller to each other. The first compartment has a waterproof structure. The second compartment has a water inlet disposed closer to the bow than the propeller is and extending along a circumference of the power transfer shaft and a water jet outlet disposed at a stern-side end of the second compartment. The propeller is smaller than the first compartment in diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki AOKI, Takeshi OUCHIDA
  • Publication number: 20190389552
    Abstract: A drive system mounted to the hull of a buoyant vessel, the drive system having a rectifier, a generator, an AC bus in communication with shore power or a charging system and the rectifier, a DC bus in communication with the rectifier, at least one energy storage system, an inverter, a prime mover, a load regenerating device, and a control and monitor system which has predefined specifications for at least one of: storage units of at least one energy storage system; stored therein and wherein the control and monitor system is adapted to: automatically control the DC/DC converters, relieve a current draw from one or more storage units, provide charging current, and automatically draw power and redirect energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: PAUL REMBACH
  • Publication number: 20190389553
    Abstract: A floating vessel with gearless pod propulsor and counter rotating propellers is secured to a hull, each pod having a lead propeller and a trailing propeller, each propeller connected to a shaft connected to either a stator and rotor or a hydraulic motor. A lead propeller turns in a first direction and a trailing propeller turns in an opposite direction simultaneously, generating thrust for the floating vessel along a thrust vector using the counter rotation of the trailing propeller to recover swirling energy from the lead propeller improving propulsive efficiency of the floating vessel. The pod is positioned below a water line of the floating vessel providing propulsion for the floating vessel without gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventors: VENKAT REDDY MUDUPU, JOANNES RAYMOND BEKKER
  • Publication number: 20190389554
    Abstract: A buoyant aerial vehicle system includes a balloon, a ballonet configured to selectively receive and discharge a gas to adjust an altitude of the balloon, and an energy regeneration assembly. The energy regeneration assembly includes a turbine and an electric motor. The turbine is coupled to an outlet of the ballonet, such that gas released by the bayonet activates the turbine. The electric motor is operably coupled to the turbine and is configured to convert mechanical energy received from the turbine into electrical energy and convey the electrical energy to a battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Applicant: X Development LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Anderson
  • Publication number: 20190389555
    Abstract: In order to make it easier to assemble an aircraft module in an interior space defined by a fuselage of this aircraft, this module includes at least one transverse member extending in a lateral direction of the module and intended to be fixed to a frame of the fuselage, and it also includes, mounted on at least one of the two opposite ends of the transverse member, a joining device for joining to the fuselage frame, the joining device being configured to be movable from a standby position into a deployed joining position in which this device projects from the transverse member in the lateral direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Publication date: December 26, 2019
    Inventor: Bernard Guering