With Component Frangible Or Deformable On Impact Or Overload Patents (Class 248/548)
  • Patent number: 11855433
    Abstract: A support assembly, for supporting one or more conductors of a low voltage power distribution system, can include an adjustable clip subassembly. The adjustable clip subassembly can include a housing, a clip, and a biasing element. The housing can define a receiving space, and the clip can define a receiving region. The clip can be positioned within the receiving space so that the receiving region receives the housing. The biasing element can be disposed between the clip and the housing and configured to bias the clip away from the housing. The subassembly can be configured to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the clip can compress the biasing element against the housing, allowing for insertion of a conductor into the receiving space. In the closed configuration, clip can be laterally translated, relative to the open configuration, to engage the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: ERICO International Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Rois, Pascal Godard, Frederic Bizet
  • Patent number: 11827299
    Abstract: A vibration isolator cartridge can be configured to exhibit a non-linear stiffness profile. The non-linear stiffness profile including a region of quasi-zero stiffness. The vibration isolator cartridge can include a housing. The vibration isolator cartridge can include a plunger. The plunger can be configured to be depressed toward a distal end portion of the housing. The vibration isolator cartridge can include a plurality of spring members operatively positioned within the housing between the plunger and the distal end portion of the housing. The plurality of spring elements can be arranged in a stack. The vibration isolator cartridge can be used to provide improved vibration isolation performance in various applications, such as a bicycle saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Gilmore, Christian Arthur Trager, Umesh N. Gandhi, Ryohei Tsuruta, Michael Paul Rowe
  • Patent number: 11814139
    Abstract: An assembly for extending and retracting an elongated peripheral device with respect to a supporting surface of a marine vessel includes a housing and an arm pivotably coupled to the housing. An electric motor is located in the housing and has an output shaft coupled to the arm. The electric motor changes an orientation of the housing and the arm with respect to one another. A mount coupled to the housing supports the peripheral device. As the electric motor changes the orientation of the housing and the arm with respect to one another, the mount and the peripheral device are simultaneously extended or retracted with respect to the supporting surface. A controller varies the power provided to the electric motor in response to determining that the peripheral device has encountered an obstacle while being extended or retracted with respect to the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew B. Idema, Daniel S. Scheske, Bryan M. Ulmer
  • Patent number: 11634002
    Abstract: An embodiment component integration type rear lower includes a body frame having an end portion of a first side and an end portion of a second side and having a predetermined length, a front-rear connection member connecting a side sill at the end portion of the first side and connecting a rear side member at the end portion of the second side, a bush mounting member coupling a bush to the end portion of the first side, and a coupled torsion beam axle (CTBA) mounting member coupled to at least one of a CTBA, a chassis spring, or a shock absorber, the at least one of the CTBA, the chassis spring, or the shock absorber being engaged with the end portion of the second side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Seung-Ho Noh, Seung-Min Jeong, Hee Seouk Chung
  • Patent number: 11560731
    Abstract: A vertical escape structure comprises an escape housing disposed in a vertical orientation and mounted to a ground to maintain structural integrity in the vertical orientation against external flooding. The escape housing includes an interior which is sealed against water entry from exterior flooding and at least one of a staircase, a ladder, an elevator, or a lift disposed in the interior of the escape housing. The vertical escape structure further comprises a connecting walkway to connect the escape housing to a building. The escape housing has a smaller horizontal footprint than the building. The walkway is severable from the building by force without damaging the escape housing to cause water entry from the exterior flooding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Homeland Security
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Barber
  • Patent number: 11339849
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a three-dimensional seismic and vibration isolator with adaptive stiffness property in both vertical and horizontal directions. The isolator comprises an upper connection plate, a middle plate, an lower connection plate, a disc spring, a pre-compressed helical springs, a laminated lead rubber bearing, and viscous dampers. The upper connection plate, the middle plate and lower connection plate are made of high strength low carbon steel. The upper connection plate and middle plate are tightly contacted by the occlusive design, to guide the vertical motion. The vertical isolation system is made up of the disc spring, pre-compressed helical spring, and viscous damper. The horizontal isolation system comprises the laminated lead rubber bearing, pre-compressed helical spring and viscous damper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Tongji University
    Inventors: Ying Zhou, Peng Chen
  • Patent number: 11279457
    Abstract: Stabilizer is provided for joining parallel shafts in a marine environment and including a split bushing to permit one shaft to move rotationally and longitudinally relative to the stabilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Boatlogix, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Craft, Ronald J. Speicher
  • Patent number: 11002031
    Abstract: Described herein is a base isolation system utilising a pier-like assembly comprising intermediary elements such as pillars isolating a first member and a second member, the second member above the first member and the members in a spaced apart relationship with intermediary elements therebetween. In one aspect, a base isolation system is provided comprising a first member and a second member, the second member being above the first member, the members being in a spaced apart relationship separated by pillars; and wherein each pillar comprises a pillar fixed end and an opposing pillar movable end. In the event of relative movement between the first and second member, the pillars dampen transfer of movement between the members by the movable pillar end moving relative to a movable first or second member thereby reducing the degree of energy transfer between the members. A method of installing a base isolation system is also described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: KORONEHO LIMITED
    Inventor: Nigel Bryan Colenso
  • Patent number: 10612893
    Abstract: The systems and methods described herein provide a vehicular force absorption system that includes an interference damper that couples a vehicle external hull with a vehicle floor that is spaced apart from the vehicle external hull. The interference damper includes a common member having a first breakaway member coupled or connected to a second breakaway member. The coupling or connection between the first breakaway member and the second breakaway member may have a defined yield point at which the first breakaway member separates from the second breakaway member when subjected to a tensile force. The interference damper further includes a plurality of curved members that provide a resistive force against the separation of the first breakaway member and the second breakaway member. The resistive force provided by the interference damper beneficially reduces the force exerted on personnel and/or cargo in contact with the vehicle floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventor: Joseph Hogan Bradley
  • Patent number: 10533313
    Abstract: One or more embodiments of a jointed member are provided. The jointed member may include a first elongate section having a surface defining a first oblong opening, a second elongate section having a surface defining a second oblong opening, and a fastener passing through the first oblong opening and the second opening to connect the first elongate section and the second elongate section, where the first oblong opening and the second oblong opening move relative each other and the fastener as the jointed member transitions from a first predetermined state towards a second predetermined state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Inventor: George E. Kochanowski
  • Patent number: 10479393
    Abstract: A steering device of a vehicle, the steering device includes: a column housing supported by a vehicle body; a column tube supported to be movable with respect to the column housing in an axial direction; and a pressing mechanism interposed between the column tube and the column housing to press the column tube. The pressing mechanism includes: an abutment member that abuts against an outer surface of the column tube; a biasing member that is interposed between the abutment member and the column housing so as to bias the abutment member in a direction toward the column tube; and a shim member that is interposed between the biasing member and the abutment member and includes a supporting portion abutting against the biasing member, and a pressing portion abutting against the abutment member in a region shifted from the supporting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Sakayanagi, Yoshinori Ishibashi
  • Patent number: 10184222
    Abstract: Precast collars for screw type anchors that have a body made of a high strength composite or concrete material. The body having an opening to receive an anchor base head portion of an anchor so that a structure to be supported by the anchor is in direct contact with the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
    Inventors: David Alan Bruce, Andrew Ervin Pendergrast, Jason Wayne Herron, Page Haacke
  • Patent number: 10119231
    Abstract: A highway crash attenuation system having W-beam rail elements attached to a plurality of vertical posts. An impact terminal with a feeder chute guides one or more of the W-beam rail elements through the impact terminal. The feeder chute has an impact shield extending along a traffic-facing side of the chute from an upstream-most end to a downstream-most end of the chute closing the traffic-facing side of the chute. The system also has an anchor cable release mechanism for releasing the cable downstream of the first vertical post and an improved first breakaway post. An improved upper section of Post 1 has an anchor bearing plate with a cooperating stabilizing bolt engaging with the upstream face of the upper post section. The downstream side of the upper post section is provided with split, spaced-apart strut sections which do not obstruct the rear cable pass through notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Inventors: John R. Rohde, Dean L. Sicking, King K. Mak, John D. Reid
  • Patent number: 9963844
    Abstract: A highway crash attenuation system having W-beam rail elements attached to a plurality of vertical posts. An impact terminal with a feeder chute guides one or more of the W-beam rail elements through the impact terminal. The feeder chute has an impact shield extending along a traffic-facing side of the chute from an upstream-most end to a downstream-most end of the chute closing the traffic-facing side of the chute. The system also has an anchor cable release mechanism for releasing the cable downstream of the first vertical post and an improved first breakaway post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Inventors: John R. Rohde, Dean L. Sicking, King K. Mak, John D. Reid
  • Patent number: 9790894
    Abstract: A ram air fan assembly includes a motor/bearing housing that extends along a horizontal length of the ram air fan assembly. An inner housing assembly is in fluid communication with the motor/bearing housing to define a joint. The inner housing assembly includes first and second ellipse-shaped slots. The first slot is positioned at a first angle with respect to a radial axis of the inner housing assembly that is perpendicular to the horizontal length, and the second slot is positioned at a second angle with respect to the radial axis, the second angle being different from the first angle, and each slot extending along a first direction parallel to the horizontal length to define an axial width and extending along a radial axis to define a radial width being greater than the axial width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Eric Chrabascz, William R. Fiske, David A. Dorman
  • Patent number: 9542871
    Abstract: A sign post assembly including a ground stake, vertical post, a horizontal arm, and a cap, wherein the vertical post is pin join connected with the horizontal arm by means of a fastener allowing the horizontal arm and the vertical post to be arranged in parallel arrangement during disassembly and storage, or in perpendicular arrangement during assembly and fully extended status. The vertical post having a cut-out along its top portion to allow the arrangement of the horizontal arm within the vertical post's inner cavity and the vertical post having a cut-out along at least one of its vertical sides to allow alignment of the horizontal arm within its internal cavity wherein the horizontal arm collapses downward into the vertical post. Disassembly includes inserting the stake (along with other assembly components (i.e. sign clips, removable fasteners, etc.) within the inner cavity of the lower portion of the vertical post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Inventors: James Timothy White, Andrew David Easler
  • Patent number: 9255399
    Abstract: A seismic isolation assembly is defined by a first support plate and a second support plate disposed in parallel relation with a spacing being provided between the support plates. The first support plate is connected to ground and the second support plate is attached to a structure to be isolated. A set of wire rope isolators are disposed between the first and second support plates as well as at least one linear damper that is angularly disposed and mounted between the first and second support plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Shubin Ruan, Thomas Zemanek
  • Patent number: 8991779
    Abstract: The invention concerns a power tool holder which includes at least two clamping parts mutually movably connected to each other by at least one adjustable connection part, the at least two clamping parts each having a clamping surface which face each other and have a clamping space formed between them, wherein a power tool can be clamped by an adjustment of the connection part to move the clamping parts together. At least one clamping part includes at least one through hole located adjacent to the clamping surface of said clamping part, such that the clamping surface will flex when subjected to pressure on clamping a power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Industrial Technique AB
    Inventor: Robin McGougan
  • Patent number: 8955250
    Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard are disclosed. One embodiment provides an L shaped breakaway bracket for use with a modular tree guard assembly. The L shaped breakaway bracket includes a horizontal member extending substantially perpendicularly from a vertical member, wherein the vertical member is thinner and longer than the horizontal member. At least one fastener hole is provided in the horizontal member for receiving a fastener for securing the horizontal member to a rail. At least one fastener hole is provided in the vertical member for receiving a fastener for securing the vertical member to a post. The breakaway bracket is adapted to break along the intersection of the horizontal member and the vertical member and separate the rail from the post when a force that would otherwise be sufficient to deform the rail is applied to the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Curb Allure LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Johnson, Bruce Bagley
  • Patent number: 8950124
    Abstract: A cable end anchorage for fastening at least one cable at a supporting structure includes at least one first connecting element for connection with the supporting structure, at least one second connecting element for connection with the cable and at least one coupling element for connection of the two connecting elements in a force-transmitting manner. In the region of the coupling element, an overload device designed as a predetermined breaking point of the coupling element is provided for unfastening the connection between the two connecting elements when a critical load has been exceeded. A stop device is provided for limiting the relative motion of the connecting elements after unfastening of the connection when a critical load has been exceeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Josef Gartner GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Wellershoff
  • Patent number: 8936227
    Abstract: A seat slide apparatus for a vehicle includes a first rail including a locked portion, a second rail movably connected relative to the first rail and including bearing holes, a lock member including a lock portion and rotating around the bearing holes to engage the lock portion with the locked portion and disengage the lock portion from the locked portion to selectively bring a relative movement between the first and second rail into a locked state, and wherein the second rail includes a fracture opening allowing the shaft portion to shift from the bearing hole in a case where a load is inputted in the direction of the relative movement, and a restriction portion configured to restrict the lock member from rotating in a direction in which the locked state is released in a case where the shaft portion shifts from the bearing hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tateki Kawamura, Wataru Sakaguchi, Yukifumi Yamada, Naoki Goto
  • Patent number: 8925891
    Abstract: A rearview device mounting assembly configured for use with a vehicle including a bracket having a windshield engagement surface, a mount abutment surface, an internal clip engagement wall, and an external peripheral wall. A spring clip is coupled with a rearview device mount and includes a plurality of legs adapted for engagement with the internal clip engagement wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Van Huis, Peter T. Kantola, Ulrich A. Kuester, Danny L. Minikey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150003101
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed a thermoplastic energy absorbing headlamp mounting bracket comprising a frame having a proximal end and a distal end, and an energy absorbing member having a proximal end affixed to the proximal end of the frame, a distal end extending at least partially over the distal end of the frame, and an arcuate central portion extending between the distal end and the proximal end of the energy absorbing member. The proximal end of the energy absorbing member is configured to operably couple to a portion of the headlamp, and the frame is frictionally slidable in relation to the distal end of the energy absorbing member. Headlamps and vehicles comprising the energy absorbing headlamp mounting bracket are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Takaaki Nemoto
  • Publication number: 20140353457
    Abstract: A casing for housing an occupant protection device unit is composed of a metallic base with its plate surfaces facing upward and downward, respectively, and a main body that is put on and mounted on the surface of the base. A bracket formed integrally with the base is composed of a plate-like leg extending laterally from the edge in the base and a fastening member that is integrally formed at an end of the leg and is bolted to the vehicle body. The leg is composed of a through-hole vertically passing therethrough and the two weak portions. The two weak portions are composed of two branching portions separated by the through-hole in the leg. If an excessive collision load is exerted on the bracket from the vehicle body, the two weak portions are torn off, thereby allowing the occupant protection control unit to be protected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takahiro Ohmoto, Kenyu Okamura, Takahiro Ishikawa, Shinya Ueki, Tomoya Yoshikawa
  • Publication number: 20140332656
    Abstract: An adjustment arrangement for a seat of a motor vehicle including a rail which is mounted displaceably in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle relative to a frame of the vehicle, a seat support which forms a retainer for the seat, a connecting element which mechanically couples the seat support to the rail, wherein a first section of the connecting element is mounted on the rail so as to be rotatable in a predefined pivoting plane, wherein a second section of the connecting element is mounted on the seat support so as to be rotatable in the pivoting plane, and wherein the connecting element is functionally rotatable relative to the seat support and/or to the rail up to a predefined adjustment limit, and further including an absorber unit which is designed to absorb kinetic energy introduced by the connecting element, if the connecting element exceeds the predefined adjustment limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Simon Alexander Maurer, Dieter Jungert
  • Patent number: 8820698
    Abstract: A break-away hook assembly is adapted for installation for use with a low-voltage residential communication cable. A pair of members is coupled. One of the members has a connector with a terminal portion which receives a terminus of the other member. The connector breaks to release the second member from coupled engagement with the first member so that upon application of a stress in excess of a pre-established load, the cable will sag while maintaining the communication integrity of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Electric Motion Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Balfour, John Auclair, Anthony Salvador Delmonico
  • Patent number: 8668190
    Abstract: An impact-absorbing structure includes a vertical hollow column that telescopically receives a post. A coil spring surmounts a centrally apertured support plate that receives and is secured to the hollow column. A coil spring stands atop the support plate and the upper end of the coil spring is secured to a top plate that surmounts the post. A centrally apertured spacer plate is parallel to the top plate and is downwardly spaced apart from it. A plurality of bolts interconnects the top plate and spacer plate. The post retracts within the hollow column and the coil spring is compressed when a downwardly directed force is applied to the top plate. The coil spring unloads and restores the top plate and the spacer plate to their respective positions of repose when the downwardly directed force is removed. Each bolt is engaged by an eye loop at the end of a cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Vertical Venture Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Thomas Heruska, Stephen Eric Johnston, II
  • Publication number: 20140063734
    Abstract: There is disclosed a mounting assembly for structurally mounting a peripheral device to a portable computer. The mounting assembly comprises a bracket arranged to be structurally secured to the portable computer and comprising a first coupling; and a second coupling which in use is attached to or part of the peripheral device. The first and second couplings are arranged to be releasably engaged to form a structural connection, such that in use the peripheral device can be structurally mounted to the portable computer. There is also disclosed a portable computing apparatus comprising a portable computer, a peripheral device and a mounting assembly; and a electronic entry control board for mobile telemetry monitoring apparatus comprising a portable computer, a wireless communication unit and a mounting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Draeger Safety UK Limited
    Inventor: John James Appleton
  • Publication number: 20140061422
    Abstract: This shock-filtering set-point resilient supporting system intended, in particular, for equipment (1) suspension on board a vessel is characterised in that it includes an equipment-bearing base (8) associated with a supporting base (9) of the vessel by means of set-point damping means (10) comprising at least one damping assembly including metal coils (11, 12) associated with rupture set-point bars (17, 18) mounted under pre-stress between the two bases (8, 9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: DCNS
    Inventors: Dominique Monteil, Didier Seguinot, Marie Anne Armbrust, Herve Bruneau
  • Patent number: 8628141
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a body and a closure panel moveably attached to the body. When the closure panel is in a closed position, a closure restraint system interconnects the body and the closure panel and restricts lateral movement of the closure panel relative to the body. The closure restraint system includes a fixed wedge block attached to one of the body and the closure panel, and a rotatable wedge block attached to the other of the body and the closure panel. The rotatable wedge block includes a curved cam surface, and is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the fixed wedge block when engaged by the fixed wedge block to move the contact between the fixed wedge block and the rotatable wedge block along the curved cam surface to maintain a consistent closing force for closing the closure panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott W. Thorpe, Richard D. Janke, Altaf S. Imam, Shawn G. Quinn, Michael E. McGuire
  • Patent number: 8613412
    Abstract: An impact absorbing sign post with quick change-out capability and method is provided. The impact absorbing sign post includes an upper sign post for carrying a sign, an intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post carrying the upper sign post and a lower hollow bollard post mounted immovably in the ground supporting the intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post. A easily removable pivot base flexible joint member with a dome portion is mounted between the intermediate cylindrical hollow bollard post and the lower hollow bollard post. A quick change-out spring kit is housed substantially with the lower hollow bollard post in includes a coil spring that is compressed by a tension means such as a cable or chain. When the sign post is impacted by a vehicle and the spring kit is damaged a replacement quick change-out spring kit may be easily installed after removal of the original spring kit without the necessity of removing the lower hollow bollard post from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald W. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20130320181
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to ensure that a torque rod breaks downward when a predetermined load or greater is input thereto. A torque rod has a first annular portion (21), a second annular portion (22), a connecting stay portion (24) that interconnects the first annular portion (21) and the second annular portion (22), a first attachment member (31) that is connected via a first rubber elastic body (41) inside the first annular portion (21), and a second attachment member (32) that is connected via a second rubber elastic body (42) inside the second annular portion (22). The connecting stay portion (24) has an upper fork portion (24U) and a lower fork portion (24L), and the bending strength of the lower fork portion (24L) is less than that of the upper fork portion (24U). A cavity portion (30) to which part of the first annular portion (21) is exposed is formed between the upper fork portion (24U) and the lower fork portion (24L).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicants: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Naoyuki Kamei, Mutsuo Tezuka
  • Publication number: 20130284878
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holding device for securing at least one flat element, in particular a façade element, comprising at least one substructure securing means, at least one flat element securing means and at least one transversal force absorbing means which interconnects the substructure securing means and the flat element securing means and which absorbs forces that are effective in the plane defined by the flat elements, characterized in that the holding device comprises at least one to energy absorbing means which absorbs energy that is introduced into the holding device by forces that act perpendicularly to the plane defined by the flat elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Frank Wellershoff
  • Patent number: 8567744
    Abstract: A reusable device for detachably mounting an object to a platform includes a breakaway plate that is mounted to the object and a mounting bracket that is fixed to the platform. The breakaway plate is formed with a circumferential groove, and an o-ring is placed in the groove. A tooth ring having a slight gap is positioned over the o-ring. As a retaining ring is placed over the o-ring and tooth ring and fastened to the mounting bracket, the tooth ring compresses, which causes the o-ring to compress and engage the tooth ring at a breakaway force of the object. When an applied force that is greater than the breakaway force is applied to the object, the o-ring pops out to separate the object and platform. The o-ring durometer is chosen according to the magnitude of breakaway force that is desired by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: William H. Marn, Brandon J. Wiedemeier
  • Publication number: 20130277527
    Abstract: A break-away coupling has a central axis and a necked-down central region formed by two inverted truncated cones having larger and smaller bases joined at the smaller bases by a narrowed transition region in the form of a catenoid having a radius R and a central plane of symmetry at its inflection point of minimum diameter. The length of the side of cone between the bases is equal to 1, the distance along the axis between each large base and the central plane equal to H, and: H 2 = R 2 + 1 2 Sin ? ? ? = h 1 l Where H = ( 0.521 - R ) 2 + ( 0.57 ) 2 , BC = R , and l = ( 0.521 - R + R 2 - h 2 2 ) 2 + ( h 1 ) 2 H = h 1 + h 2 where h1=height of cones between bases, and h2=axial distance along central axis between each smaller base and the central plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Arthur M. Dinitz, Michael S. Stenko, Mahmoud Reda Taha
  • Patent number: 8556223
    Abstract: A break-away hook assembly is adapted for installation for use with a low-voltage residential communication cable. A pair of members is coupled. One of the members has a connector with a terminal portion which receives a terminus of the other member. The connector breaks to release the second member from coupled engagement with the first member so that upon application of a stress in excess of a pre-established load, the cable will sag while maintaining the communication integrity of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Electric Motion Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Balfour, John Auclair, Anthony Salvador Delmonico
  • Publication number: 20130228667
    Abstract: A holding device for in particular panel-shaped interior lining parts of a fuselage, has a configuration that is easy and simple to mount, each holding device includes a supporting device, which is used to anchor the holding device on a primary structure of the fuselage and comprises a joint; a connecting tube, which extends out of the supporting device and one end of which is attached to the joint; a mounting for an interior lining part, to which mounting the other, opposite end of the connecting tube to the one end is attached; and a lanyard, which is fastened to the supporting device is and the mounting and extends through the connecting tube and the length of which is greater than the length of the connecting tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Hermann BENTHIEN, Ali GÜNGÖR
  • Patent number: 8523135
    Abstract: A device that facilitates the support of a post or shaft in such a way that the post is connected rigidly to a foundation or otherwise connected to a fixed position. If a condition arises that causes the post to become stressed physically the device will allow separation of the post from a mounting on the foundation or fixed position before the said post is physically damaged. The post itself may be round, square, rectangular, channel shape, or any other shape in profile. In some cases the post is the primary support for such things as roadside sign posts, signs, signals, lights, warnings, or markers, that are commonly held by the roadside in a fixed and elevated position so that they are easily visible to passing motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians. The device can also be used to support other types of signs, signals, or devices unrelated to traffic or transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: 648560 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventor: Nowal Pierson
  • Publication number: 20130168528
    Abstract: An energy absorber (10, 10?, 1010, 1110) includes a monolithic length of ductile material (20,1020,1120) comprising a first end (20a, 1020a, 1120a) and a second end (20b, 1020b, 1120b). The material is formed to include at least a first longitudinally extending section (40, 401, 1040, 1140) that extends continuously between the ends, a first discontinuous section (50a, 50a? 1050a, 1150a) extending longitudinally from the first end toward the second end and at least a second discontinuous section (50b, 50b?, 1050b, 1150b) extending longitudinally from the second end toward the first end. The first longitudinally extending section is deformed over at least a portion thereof out of a plane running through both ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Justin Shane Patton, Brian C. Montgomery
  • Publication number: 20130168529
    Abstract: A seat fixing device for fixing a vehicle seat, in particular an aircraft passenger seat, to at least one fixing rail that is attached to a vehicle structure, comprising a fixing means that is to be coupled to the at least one fixing rail, and comprising a force transmitting unit that is used in a normal olperating mode to provide a first force application path of a weight and acceleration force that is introduced into the vehicle structure via the vehicle seat. The force transmitting unit has a transmitting means that is used in an impact mode to at least initiate a generation of at least one second force application path of the weight and acceleration force that is introduced into the vehicle sttucture via the vehicle seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: RECARO AIRCRAFT SEATING GMBH & CO KG
    Inventor: Jürgen Baumann
  • Patent number: 8448913
    Abstract: A highway guardrail terminal having horizontally extending guardrail elements mounted on a plurality of vertical posts. An anchor cable release mechanism having a cable release bracket attached to a W-beam rail element by cable release bolts has an arrangement of tapered slots and elongated openings to quickly release the cable release bracket from the W-beam rail element upon end-on vehicular impact to the terminal. The tapered slots have a geometry which lifts the bracket away from and out of a parallel alignment with the W-beam rail element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: John R. Rohde, John Reid, Dean Sicking, King K. Mak
  • Patent number: 8434731
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure for use in supporting a road sign or the like. A longitudinal tubular support member has a uniform cross-section that includes a plurality of circular or part-circular port sections for receiving an end anchorage. Enclosing wall sections extend between the port sections and are shaped to include a concave form so as to promote inward collapsing of the support member in the event of an impact to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Varley and Gulliver Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Everitt, Darren Copeland
  • Patent number: 8302928
    Abstract: A cushioning member includes a first plane, an opening opened to the first plane, and an air storage for storing air formed from the opening to an inside of the cushioning member. When a shock load is imposed on the cushioning member, the air in the air storage is compressed, and the first plane is deformed by the pressure of the compressed air to form a gap. A part of the compressed air flows out of the air storage through the gap. This structure provides a high shock-cushioning effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Hirofumi Asakura, Katsutoshi Yuasa, Tetsuya Kawamoto
  • Patent number: 8303209
    Abstract: A sectional I-beam post for use along a roadside in which the post has a first elongate lower section securable via a first slip type coupling to a base anchored in the ground. Slip movement of such coupling is in a direction across the length of the post. The first coupling includes L-shaped brackets with one leg thereof attached to the post by bolts so as to be detachable therefrom and notches in the outer end of the other leg which projects outwardly from the post A second elongate upper post section has the lower end thereof connected to the upper end of the first post section by a second slip type coupling. Slip movement of the second coupling is in a direction lengthwise of the post. The second coupling includes an end plate bolted to at least one post section including at least one notch that providing a slip connection with the other post section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Donnie G. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8261960
    Abstract: A fastening device and method for mounting equipment to a framing member. The invention includes a single breakaway fastener that is pretentioned using a biasing member to fracture on a predetermined force applied to the fastened joint to avoid damage to the secured equipment. In one example the device and method includes the fastener having a reduced diameter portion that is positioned between an annular plate and the framing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Comau, Inc.
    Inventors: Velibor Kilibarda, Michael R. Dugas, William T. Maybee, Hans Nikesch
  • Patent number: 8261759
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus, in particular a high-pressure cleaning apparatus, is provided, on which at least one fastening device for fastening the cleaning apparatus to a carrier is disposed. The at least one fastening device comprising at least one tensioning section on which a tensile force, which is directed at the carrier, acts when the cleaning apparatus is fastened to the carrier by means of a tensioning element. At least one retaining section is connected to the at least one tensioning section, for retaining the at least one fastening device on the cleaning apparatus. The at least one fastening device has at least one support section in order to be supported on the cleaning apparatus. The support section is connected to the at least one tensioning section by at least one connecting section, the at least one connecting section yielding if the tensile force exceeds a maximum permissible tensile force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Kelle, Ralph Seitter
  • Publication number: 20120199544
    Abstract: A crane assembly includes a main body, a boom extending from the main body, a cable, and a hook coupled to an end of the boom opposite to the main body by the cable, where the crane assembly is configured for lifting items via the hook. The crane assembly further includes a projection extending outward from the boom and curving toward the main body. The projection is configured to receive the hook over an end of the projection such that tension in the cable maintains the hook in place on the projection. Gravity is sufficient to release the hook from the projection when the boom is raised and the tension in the cable is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Kelvin G. Aus, Bradley G. Ethington
  • Patent number: 8235348
    Abstract: An impact recovery assembly generally includes an object, an impact recovery device, and an adaptor for attaching the object to the impact recovery device. The adaptor includes a body having a first attachment portion configured for interfacing with the impact recovery assembly and a second attachment portion configured for interfacing with an object, wherein the first attachment portion is different at least in part from the second attachment portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Pacific Cascade Parking Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Mark A. Curtis
  • Patent number: 8201801
    Abstract: A sign bracket for over-road highway signs and other signs. The bracket is comprised of a first assembly attached to the sign and a second assembly attached to a support structure. A shear pin prevents relative movement between the first assembly and second assembly in its normal state. When sufficient pressure is exerted on the sign the shear pin shears and the first assembly is freed to rotate the sign approximately ninety degrees. The sign is essentially laid flat either face up from wind force striking the face of the sign or face down from wind striking the rear of the sign. When the sign is laid flat it produces substantially reduced wind resistance and the support structure remains intact. The sign may then easily re-erected by insertion of a new shear pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Felix Antonio Rosabal
  • Patent number: 8087723
    Abstract: A crashworthy seat for a vehicle comprises a stand including a first and a second foot connected mechanically to a first and a second vertical support leg; a pan connected by the stand to a floor wherein the first and the second feet are disposed on each side of the pan, the pan including a seat proper and a seat back, wherein the seat back has a support element secured to the first and the second vertical support legs configured to support the seat back; a guide element configured to guide the pan in translation; an energy absorber device; a first anchor point secured to the first distal end of the absorber portion; and a second anchor point secured to the second distal end of the absorber portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Eurocopter
    Inventors: Olivier Honnorat, Thomas Manfredotti, Olivier Feuillarade