Passenger Safety Guards Patents (Class 280/748)
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Patent number: 7775555Abstract: A vehicle includes a first structure, a pedal pivotably connected to the first structure for pivoting between rest and fully-applied positions, a control attachment connecting the pedal to a vehicle system to be controlled, a second structure located rearward of the pedal, and an engagement bracket connected to the pedal to engage the second structure upon rearward movement of the pedal during a vehicle frontal collision. The control attachment is connected to the engagement bracket and disengages from the pedal so that the pedal pivots independent of the control system when the engagement bracket strikes the second structure with a predetermined force. There is a constant distance between the engagement bracket and the second structure as the pedal pivots so that the position of the pedal does not affect the disengagement of the control attachment during the frontal collision.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, LLCInventors: James Robert Allen, Brian John Eckerle, Jason Allen Booher
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Patent number: 7757804Abstract: An injury mitigation system for a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian. The invention includes a releasable net-like structure which is deployed from the front of a vehicle to alter the collision dynamics between the vehicle and the pedestrian is disclosed. A release mechanism allows deployment of the net which expands from a small compact size to a large rectangle in a deployed mode, expanding upward by an integrated spring-like structure which then shrouds the front of the vehicle in a short period of time. The system is activated upon sensing an imminent collision at short range in front of the vehicle through use of a motion sensor or other release mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Inventor: Phillip S. Li
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Publication number: 20100171296Abstract: Protection devices in motor vehicles typically have a movable element, for example a roll bar (1) or a flap, which, in the initial state, is fixed in its position by a releasable holding device. In the event of a hazard, the movable element can be released under sensor control by a common pyrotechnic actuator (11) and can be deployed with the protection being activated. The protection device also has a means (8, 9) for locking the deployed, movable element. A driving pressure chamber (12, 15), which is fixed on the bodywork and in which a driving piston (2 with 13, 16) connected to the movable element is accommodated in a guided manner, is connected downstream of the pyrotechnic actuator (11).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2007Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventors: Stephan Rohner, Mirko Janisch, Jozef Lang, Michael Schulte, Hans Gerd Menne, Frank Liesaus
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Patent number: 7740276Abstract: A window restraint device includes a mesh screen having an upper end and a lower end. The restraint device includes an upper attachment device, such as a clip or strap, coupled to the screen upper end for removable attachment to an automobile door frame. The restraint device also includes a lower attachment device, such as a suction cup, coupled to the screen lower end for connecting the lower end of the screen to an automobile window. Neither the upper or lower attachment devices interfere with normal operation of the vehicle window, nor do they restrict a pet from normal movement within the vehicle. The restraint device may also include a spring-loaded reel from which the screen may be extended from or retracted into. The spring provides tension between upper and lower ends of the screen.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2006Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Inventor: Jason Watson
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Patent number: 7735854Abstract: A ramp bracket assembly for a vehicle air bag is configured to be mounted to an inner panel of the vehicle. The assembly includes a first ramp bracket with a first engagement portion, and a second ramp bracket with a second engagement portion removably engaged with the first engagement portion. The second engagement portion is disengaged from the first engagement portion in a vehicle impact, such that the assembly absorbs shock and guides deployment of the air bag. Alternatively, a ramp bracket for a vehicle air bag is configured to be mounted to an inner panel of the vehicle. The inner panel has an engagement groove, and the ramp bracket has an engagement portion, removably engaged into the engagement groove, and disengaged therefrom in a vehicle impact such that the bracket absorbs shock and guides deployment of the air bag.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Jae Eun Chang
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Patent number: 7726688Abstract: A vehicle partition for separating front and rear occupant areas (or other restricted and permitted areas) in a vehicle having side air bags, the vehicle partition comprising a partition frame with upright portions spaced apart from the vehicle's respective inner side surfaces such that the partition does not interfere with deployment of the air bags. In some embodiments, access through openings defined by the spaced apart upright portions and adjacent vehicle side surfaces is restricted by cover members. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the partition frame are electrified to shock an occupant in a restricted area attempting to gain access to a permitted area through an opening in the partition.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Inventor: Terry L. Setina
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Patent number: 7703829Abstract: An energy transferring system for transferring energy from an occupant's knees through an instrument panel assembly to a vehicle cross beam when an occupant's knee drives the instrument panel assembly into the cross beam as a result of an external load placed on the vehicle. The system having an elongated member projecting from the cross beam towards the instrument panel assembly, and an instrument panel assembly having an energy transferring member and a recess registered to said elongated member. Said elongated member and recess working in concert to prevent said cross beam from slipping past said energy transferring member thereby increasing the energy transferring from an occupant's knees to other vehicle structures.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey Sadao Miki
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Patent number: 7703803Abstract: A safety restraint system for a vehicle includes a safety net stored in a wall mounted cartridge wherein a guiding bar, securable in a locking mechanism, steers the safety net away from the wall and provides a secured space around a bunk. The safety net is secured adjacent to the bunk using a locking bar. The safety net may be provided with one or several safety belts at least partly attached to the safety net.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2006Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Tomas Ekberg, Niklas Thuresson
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Patent number: 7699341Abstract: A planing boat, particularly of a small size, is provided with an airbag system. The airbag system includes at least one bag-shaped airbag body, a housing which accommodates the airbag body, a detector for detecting a collision of the boat, an expanding unit which inflates the airbag body at the time of collision of the boat, and a controller for controlling the detector and the inflation of the airbag body. In a preferred embodiment, the airbag system includes a first airbag body in the handle cover which is blown up from the handle bar to a rear side of the boat and a second airbag body in the handle cover which is blown up toward a front side of knees of a rider.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Suzuki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuaki Yatagai, Takashi Shimizu, Koji Kurata
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Patent number: 7694640Abstract: A guest lap bar locking assembly for releasably positioning a lap bar within a water ride at an entertainment park includes a lap bar locking assembly that is dimensioned and configured to provide continuously variable position locking of the lap bar.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Universal City Studios LLLPInventors: Steven C. Blum, David Winslow, Tim Kelley, Robert Scott Blucher
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Patent number: 7665565Abstract: Disclosed is a support structure for a vehicle control pedal, which comprises a pedal bracket (3) supporting the control pedal (4) through a first support shaft (S1) inserted through a support hole (303), a swingable lever (7) adapted to, during a vehicle collision, come into interference with a vehicle body member (6) so as to be swingingly moved about a second support shaft (S2) while pushing the first support shaft (S1) downwardly to allow the first support shaft (S1) to drop out of the support hole (303), and a drop-out restriction member (8) engaged by a pin member (20) and coupled to the swingable lever (7) in a relatively unswingable manner, so as to restrict the drop-out of the first support shaft (S1).Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2007Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignees: Auto Technica Corporation, Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Masayuki Tokumo, Tetsuo Hiura, Hirofumi Ishida
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Patent number: 7658410Abstract: A passenger restraining harness has a web (30) which during ready position stored within the backrest of a seat (10) and there is also a headrest (31) rested on top of the backrest covering the exit opening of the web, during the course of an accident, the propelling device (50) will receive commend from the sensor to propel carrying cams (80) (801)(802)(803) with the web and headrest along the looped channels (40) to the engaged positions at the anchor brackets (60) effectively restraining a person (11), the cable guides (20) with the tightening cable (32) function together to tighten up middle section of the web (30). Showing is the inside section of a vehicle (9).Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Inventor: Ming Yat Kwok
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Patent number: 7658254Abstract: A system for clearing crush space in an automotive vehicle, the system including a vehicle having a passenger compartment, an impact displaced component assembled to the vehicle in a spaced relationship to the passenger compartment, an intervening component mounted on the vehicle between the passenger compartment and the impact displaced component, an active component secured to the vehicle in close proximity to the intervening component, a controller mounted on the vehicle, the controller activating the active component when the vehicle is involved in a collision, and the active component causing the intervening component to move when the active component is activated wherein crush space for movement of the impact displaced component is at least partially cleared in the event of a collision.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Joseph Lee Buchwitz, Noah Barlow Mass, Venkat Lakshminarayan, Gennadiy Goldenshteyn, Andrew Charles Samyn
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Publication number: 20100019477Abstract: It is to provide a structure in which impact to the lower limbs of a vehicle occupant can be reduced effectively as compared to the prior art. A structure for reducing impact force according to the present invention is to protect an occupant in a vehicle interior, which reduces impact force, occurred when a structural body located out of and in front of the vehicle interior comes toward the vehicle interior. And the structure for reducing impact force is characterized by comprising: a pressing mechanism, which is arranged out of and in front of the vehicle interior to apply a pressure downwardly to the structure in order to restrict the structure from entering into the vehicle interior; and a drive member to drive the pressing mechanism in the case of emergency.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2006Publication date: January 28, 2010Applicant: Autoliv Development ABInventors: Koji Korechika, Bengt Pipkorn, Jan Olsson
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Patent number: 7631896Abstract: A sleeper bunk restraint system comprises a sleeper bunk configured to be carried by a vehicle, a curtain extendable over an occupant-supporting top surface of the bunk, and a curtain support member configured to support the curtain away from the top surface of the bunk.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2006Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Indiana Mills & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Chris P. Jessup, Douglas W. Bittner
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Patent number: 7610984Abstract: A device is described for a motor vehicle for occupant protection during an energy impact acting laterally on the door area of the motor vehicle comprising a vehicle seat being located on the side of the motor vehicle door (2) facing away from the energy impact, which provides at least one side-impact member (1) projecting through the interior of the motor vehicle door (2). The side-impact member (1) has at least two sections (4) connected to one another via a joint region (3) in longitudinal extension, the joint region (3) has an adjustable flexural resistance, and the flexural resistance of the joint region (3) is changeable as a function of the energy impact acting on the motor vehicle door (2).Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignees: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbHInventors: Tobias Melz, Eric Zimmerman
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Publication number: 20090261636Abstract: A reinforcement for rear seat backs is disclosed herein. The rear seat back reinforcement of the present invention includes a luggage bar, which is provided between a rear package tray and a floor panel and has a holding member and a mounting member, and a wire frame, which is held by the holding member of the luggage bar and is fastened at the lower end thereof to the floor panel by the mounting member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2008Publication date: October 22, 2009Applicant: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Dong Woo Jeong
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Patent number: 7588267Abstract: A vehicle safety system, vehicle (10) air bladders (12) hydraulic jacks (14) solution spray nozzles (16) front, rear absorber eject out bumpers (18) cluster sensing unit (20) dual door brace to interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame (22) single door brace to interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame (24) stand alone eject out door brace without interlock to body frame (26) interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame to dual door brace (28) interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame to single door brace (30) air bags (32).Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2007Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Inventor: Nick Trozzi
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Patent number: 7588266Abstract: A protective device for vehicle occupants of a motor vehicle contains a restraining element and a connecting device for the restraining element in order to be able to connect the latter releasably to the motor vehicle and to be able to hold it in a use position. The connecting device contains for this purpose an upper and lower fastening device. In order, in particular, to optimize the operation of the protective device, the lower fastening device has, on the one hand, a locking device which locks the restraining element in the rest position, and, on the other hand, a clamping device which keeps the restraining element clamped—with respect to the upper fastening device—in the use position.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AGInventors: Paul-Dieter Fengel, Roland Bühner
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Patent number: 7581614Abstract: A planing boat, particularly of a small size, is provided with an airbag system. The airbag system includes at least one bag-shaped airbag body, a housing which accommodates the airbag body, a detector for detecting a collision of the boat, an expanding unit which inflates the airbag body at the time of collision of the boat, and a controller for controlling the detector and the inflation of the airbag body. In a preferred embodiment, the airbag system includes a first airbag body in the handle cover which is blown up from the handle bar to a rear side of the boat and a second airbag body in the handle cover which is blown up toward a front side of knees of a rider.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Suzuki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuaki Yatagai, Takashi Shimizu, Koji Kurata
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Patent number: 7581756Abstract: The cab guard for a pickup truck has a horizontal base member made of square hollow structural steel; an upright structure extending upward from the horizontal base member, and two anchor brackets for attachment to sides of a pickup truck box. Each of the anchor brackets has a stem made of square hollow structural steel and an anchor plate extending at right angle from the stem. Each stem is telescopically engaged in one end of the horizontal base member. The cab guard also comprises a pair of J-shaped hooks extending through the anchor plates for attachment to the stake pockets of a pickup truck box, for retaining the anchor plates to the sides of the pickup truck box. The universal cab guard is mountable to the front stake pockets of a pickup truck box and is adjustable to match the width between the stake pockets.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2006Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Inventor: Leslie Cole
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Publication number: 20090200781Abstract: A brake apparatus (1) for a vehicle, having: a pedal box (5) which is provided on a partition panel (4) extending in approximately upward and downward directions and which pivotally supports the brake pedal (3). An electric motor (7) of a power steering apparatus is arranged at a position where the electric motor makes contact with the brake pedal (3) moving backward at a time of a front collision of the vehicle, to receive a load from the brake pedal (3) by the electric motor (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2005Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: FUJI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hideaki Hatakenaka, Osamu Saito, Shiro Ezoe
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Patent number: 7571952Abstract: A protection screen is placed between a cabin and a loading platform and mounted to a vehicle body. The loading platform is placed adjacent to a back surface of the cabin and joined at a rear portion thereof to the vehicle body via a pivot axis so as to be inclined from a horizontal normal position to a dump position where the loading platform is inclined upward to a front. The protection screen includes an upper screen having a width wider than that of seat backs of occupant seats provided in the cabin; a lower screen continuously connected to a lower end of the upper screen and having a width narrower than that of the upper screen; and a bracket connecting the upper and lower screens together.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2008Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Honda Access Corp.Inventors: Kazumichi Hamaguchi, Naoto Ono, Satoshi Fukuda, Shunji Kuroki
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Publication number: 20090145680Abstract: A roll bar exhaust system [1000] is described for retrofitting vehicles such as a pickup truck [100]. Two vertical pipes [1100] have exhaust conduits [1110] running through them which exit through exhaust outlets [1180] at their top side. Diagonal supports [1300] attach to a cross bar [1500] or the vertical supports [1100]. The diagonal supports also attach to the bed [110] of the vehicle. Exhaust conduits [1110] attach to elbows [1010] then to the engine exhaust [150]. Exhaust is routed from the engine exhaust [150] through the elbows [1010] up the exhaust conduit [1110] and out of the exhaust outlet [1180]. Since this is designed to have significant strength, it doubles as a roll bar system preventing the cab [130] of truck [100] from crushing and injuring passengers in the event of a roll over.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Justin WILSON
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Publication number: 20090134613Abstract: The invention relates to a holding loop for installation into a person conveying means, having a fastening loop (1) for pulling onto a holding rod, and a gripping loop (2) for a person, the two loops comprising a strap or a flat band. The fastening loop (1) is formed by fixing the strap or band ends or the strap or band sections above and/or below the holding rod in a hollow connecting element which has at least two individual elements (3a, 3b), which are arranged in pairs, with upper edge zones (4a, 4b) and lower edge zones (5a, 5b) and a respective central surface part as the advertising surface. The strap or band ends or strap or band sections are fastened between the individual elements (3a, 3b). An advertisement carrier can be pushed into the cavity via a lateral insertion gap (10). This is also possible if protective coverings are arranged over the individual elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2006Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventors: Matthias Eber, Michael Hilbert
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Patent number: 7506602Abstract: At least one actuator for actuating a guest lap bar locking assembly for releasably positioning a lap bar includes a rotatable actuator hub, a telegraph rod interconnected with the rotatable actuator hub, an operator arm also extending from the actuator hub and a toggle latching assembly interconnected with the actuator hub. The toggle latching assembly provides for rotation of the telegraph rod to actuate the lap bar locking assembly to prevent movement of the lap bar in at least one particular direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Universal City Studios LLLPInventors: Steven C. Blum, David Winslow, Tim Kelley, Robert Scott Blucher
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Publication number: 20090071737Abstract: A utility vehicle (100) with ergonomic, safety, and maintenance features is disclosed. The ergonomic, safety, and maintenance features enhance the utility of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventors: Joshua J. Leonard, Richard Raymond Maki, Eric Bjerketvedt, Mitchell D. Johnson, Bradley Robert Morisch, Brian D. Krosschell, Louis J. Brady, James Bergman, Larry Holter, Richard Nelson, Lionel Hoff, Doug Moman, Michael D. Schneider
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Patent number: 7500695Abstract: Shock-absorbing occupant protection (8) for the passenger compartment of a vehicle (1) comprising a container (9) of flexible design which is gas-filled in an original expanded rest position and is designed to be compressed when absorbing energy under impact by a passenger.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Bjorn Andersson, Glenn Johansson
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Patent number: 7494178Abstract: The present invention provides a road vehicle having at least one strengthening member fixed to a structure of the vehicle, preferably extending adjacent to a front windscreen of the vehicle, between lateral edges of the front windscreen, wherein the strengthening member is dimensioned so that it will not prevent the driver from seeing an object which is at least two meters from the front windscreen. The present invention may further provide a road vehicle having at least one strengthening member which retracts to a first position and extends to a second position, and is movable from the first position to the second position. A particular type of strengthening member is formed of at least three first linearly extending structural units for extending from the front structure of the vehicle and second linearly extending structural unit joining the at least three first linearly extending units.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Inventor: Jens H. S. Nygaard
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Publication number: 20090045613Abstract: An energy management system includes a bolster panel configured to attach to vehicle structure and a plurality of ribs connected to the bolster panel. Each rib is deflectable during a vehicle impact. The bolster panel and the plurality of ribs are unitary and formed as one piece. The plurality of ribs are arranged in a manner forming an energy absorption pattern that is progressive. A second energy management system includes a bolster panel configured to attach to vehicle structure, a plurality of ribs connected to the bolster panel, and a steering column support structure connected to the bolster panel. The bolster panel, ribs, and steering column support structure are unitary and formed as one piece. A method for creating the energy management system is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: Collins & Aikman Products Co.Inventor: MAURICE ROSS BALDWIN
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Patent number: 7484758Abstract: A golf car including a seat assembly and a first hip restraint. The seat assembly has an upper surface, a lower surface opposite the upper surface, a front end, a rear end opposite the front end, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side. The first hip restraint is mounted to the lower surface and extends to the first side. The first hip restraint includes polypropylene. The first hip restraint is gas assist injection molded.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Textron Inc.Inventors: Donald S. Hanson, Bradley J. Hanson, Kent H. Bruntz
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Patent number: 7478832Abstract: A knee bolster structure of a vehicle, capable of effectively protecting knees of a driver in an accident, has two bracket members triangular shapes a lower end of the first knee bolster bracket configured to move coupled to the member is coupled to the cowl cross bar and the lower end of the second knee bolster bracket member is coupled to the center support bracket, which connected to the cowl cross bar so that the second knee bolster bracket is prevented from interfering with the key set. The knee bolster structure has upper and lower knee contact portions formed at front parts of the first and second knee bolster bracket members, so the knee bolster structure is used corresponding to position variation of knees of the driver.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2005Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Byung Seok Kong
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Patent number: 7478873Abstract: The disclosed safety device for a motor vehicle seat may include a seat surface extending in a longitudinal direction of the seat, a securing element assigned to the seat surface; and an adjustment device operatively connected to the securing element for adjusting the securing element from a reclining position into a securing position in an event of a crash. The adjustment device is configured to reset the securing element from the securing position into the reclining position. The securing element is configured to act on the seat surface in the securing position such that the seat surface and the securing element counteract forward movement of a pelvic area of a person sitting on the seat surface in the longitudinal direction of the seat, without changing a spatial location of said seat surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Takata-Petri AGInventors: Sami Al-Samarae, Koshan Mahdi
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Patent number: 7475928Abstract: A collapsible safety barrier for protecting the rear window of the pickup truck and occupants in the cab, from any shifting cargo being transported in the bed. A collapsible safety barrier attached to the inside front bed rail of a pickup truck beneath the exterior of the rear cab window. When erected in the upright position, above said barrier protects passengers in truck cab from shifting cargo in the bed of the truck. In addition, from the erected position, said barrier permits protecting the front window of any installed truck cap from shifting or loading cargo. When not in use, said barrier retracts up to 180 degrees to an inverted position within the confines of a truck bed. When collapsed, it allows use of a rear split window for accessing the cargo area from within the cab or installation of truck bed cover.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Inventors: Steven Peter Clum, Jennifer Clum
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Publication number: 20080296878Abstract: A motorcycle exhaust pipe guard for use with a motorcycle having an exhaust pipe running adjacent a passenger's foot peg. The guard includes a planer bar which may be formed to maintain a clearance between the user's foot and the contour of the exhaust pipe. Further, a bracket is provided which uses the existing axis pin of the foot peg for mounting the guard to the foot peg bracket at a position between the foot peg and the motorcycle, and at an elevation above the foot peg.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventor: John Doug Pruit
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Publication number: 20080294314Abstract: An obstruction detection device for a motor vehicle having a door assembly movably connected to a vehicle body is provided. The device controls the vehicle door's opening angle to prevent inadvertent contact with an object foreign to the vehicle, while providing the largest opening for vehicle ingress and egress. The obstruction detection device includes a controller that is operatively connected to at least one sensor configured to actively monitor and transmit signals to the controller indicative of the presence and corresponding proximity of the object relative to the door assembly. An actuator is operatively connected to and controlled by the controller. The actuator is configured to apply a selectively variable force that restricts the movement of the vehicle door assembly with respect to the vehicle body when the door is a predetermined distance from the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2007Publication date: November 27, 2008Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Steven E. Morris, Adrian B. Chernoff
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Publication number: 20080224458Abstract: A vehicle safety system, vehicle (10) air bladders, airbags (12) hydralic jacks (14) solution spray nozzles (16) front, rear absorber eject out bumpers (18) laser, radar, camera cluster sensing unit (20) dual door brace to interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame (22) single door brace to interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame (24) stand alone eject out door brace without interlock to body frame (26) interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame to dual door brace (28) interlock with eject out absorbers to body frame to single door brace (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2007Publication date: September 18, 2008Inventor: Nick Trozzi
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Patent number: 7396046Abstract: The cab guard for pickup truck has a horizontal base member made of square hollow structural steel; an upright structure extending upward from the horizontal base member, and two anchor brackets for attachment to the sides of a pickup truck box. Each of the anchor brackets has a stem made of square hollow structural steel and an anchor plate extending at right angle from the stem. Each stem is telescopically engaged in one end of the horizontal base member. The cab guard also comprises a pair of J-shaped hooks extending through the anchor plates and having means for attachment to the stake pockets of a pickup truck box for retaining the anchor plates to the sides of the pickup truck box. The universal cab guard is mountable to the front stake pockets of a pickup truck box and is adjustable to match the width between the stake pockets.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2006Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Inventor: Leslie Cole
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Patent number: 7393012Abstract: A knee bolster structure includes a vehicle-side member, a knee-receiving member, an impact-absorbing section for absorbing an input energy from knees of a driver or front-seat passenger when the knees hit the knee-receiving section, and a knee-receiving member movement section for moving the knee-receiving member to a knee-receiving position for the driver or front-seat passenger, said knee-receiving member being attached to the vehicle-side member via the impact-absorbing section and the knee-receiving member movement section, the impact-absorbing section being structurally separated from the knee-receiving member movement section.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventors: Kazuki Funakura, Nobuhiro Nagata, Tsutomu Kawashima
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Publication number: 20080150268Abstract: A bolster for assembly to an instrument panel assembly of an automotive vehicle is provided. The vehicle has a steering column with a steering column axis and at least two energy absorbing brackets located laterally to either side of the steering column axis. The bolster comprises a unitary structure having a generally forward wall and a generally aft wall. The forward wall has a forward wall, forward surface. The forward wall, forward surface includes first and second bolster transfer surfaces for transferring forces from the bolster to the energy absorbing brackets. The bolster further comprises a plurality of generally laterally extending rib structures. The rib structures extend from adjacent the first bolster transfer surface to adjacent the second bolster transfer surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2008Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventors: Michael James Best, Dale Carson, Timothy W. Chapman, Rimas Ciplijauskas, Babak Fana, Gary Gerlach, Raj S. Roychoudhury, Changize Sadr, Ali Totonchian
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Patent number: 7390017Abstract: An occupant restraining device (S1) is provided with: a shielding member (41) to be let off from the peripheral edge (DW/VW) of a vehicle window (WF) arranged in a door of a vehicle, so as to shield the window; and a let-off means (81, 86, 87) for letting off the housed shielding member (41) so as to shield the window (WF). The shielding member (41) and the let-off means (81, 86, 87) are arranged in the door (FD). A garnish (21) is arranged on the peripheral edge of the door (FD) for covering the housed shielding member (41) so that the shielding member (41) is let off. An airbag device (ABM) can be arranged in the vehicle without any problem even if the occupant restraining device (S1) is mounted together with the airbag device (ABM) on the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2005Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Michio Inoue, Chiharu Totani, Toshinori Tanase, Takuji Nagata, Shuji Inui, Shinji Oguchi
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Patent number: 7370722Abstract: A structure for protecting a brake pedal of a vehicle from impact, the vehicle having a cowl crossbar provided with a pair of spaced apart connection holes, includes a supporter provided with a pair of converged brackets, each of the converged brackets provided with connection holes couplable with the connection holes of the cowl crossbar by using bolts, and a plurality of supporting protrusions provided on an end of the supporter, the supporting protrusions preventing the brake pedal from moving toward an occupant of the vehicle in the event of a collision.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ji-youn Noh
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Patent number: 7364195Abstract: The present invention provides a rider restricting device of a two-wheeled vehicle which is easily applicable to a small-sized vehicle and, at the same time, can absorb a frontward load and alleviate a load applied to a rider. The rider restricting device has left and right knee portion pads such that a pad support member for each mounts to a connecting member such that a load absorbing member is mounted in either the pad support member or the connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhiko Tsunoda, Norihiro Kurata, Hideaki Akiyama, Yutaka Murata, Takashi Ogino
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Publication number: 20080093831Abstract: A vehicle knee bolster assembly including a cross member extending laterally across a vehicle and a knee bolster including a frame having a closed cross sectional configuration with a hollow interior. The knee bolster further has a plurality of partition walls dividing the interior of the frame so as to form, together with the frame, a plurality of inner frames each having a closed cross sectional configuration and a hollow interior. The plurality of inner frames define at least two crush zones that collapse sequentially as the knee bolster is forcibly deflected.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2006Publication date: April 24, 2008Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Patrick J. Ellison
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Patent number: 7357447Abstract: This cross-member (11) for a vehicle dashboard cross-member, includes a beam (25) and a knee brace (27) for connecting the beam (25) to the floor (17) of the vehicle. The knee brace (27) has a stationary part (41), which is connected with the beam (25) and a part (43) that is movable relative to the stationary part (41) between a retracted position and at least one extended position for connection to the floor (17) of the vehicle. The knee brace (27) includes elements (45) for holding the movable part (43) in its retracted position. The holding elements (45) are joined to the knee brace (27) in order to be carried thereby into the deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Faurecia Interieur IndustrieInventor: Laurent Baudart
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Publication number: 20080042417Abstract: A Safety Attachment which does not allow the All Terrain Vehicles front end to lift off the ground more than a specified distance and eliminate a backwards overturn, when such vehicles are driven by one or more people up an incline of sufficient grade so as to cause the lighter-weighted front end of the vehicle to lift off the ground. There is also an adjustment on the safety attachment to give the invention further clearance from the ground to suit the more rugged terrain but enough clearance so the front end lifts up only within a safe determined distance. This invention, which consists of; 2 frames that are hinged together on the top and an adjustment on the bottom, one side attaches permanently to the back end of the ATV, the other side attaches to a removal safety device which is secured in place by locking pins and within this safety device a gasoline container can be housed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventor: Mark William Shaw
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Patent number: 7322606Abstract: An occupant protection apparatus includes a cover sheet adapted to be fed out from a peripheral edge of a window of a vehicle, when a pulling unit is activated, so as to cover the window. The pulling unit includes a pulling string having flexibility and a pulling device to which the pulling string is connected so as to be pulled thereby and which is disposed below the window. When the pulling device is activated, the pulling string is pulled such that a portion thereof which extends from a fixed end to where it is supported by a support member becomes a straight line while a portion thereof which is disposed along a lower edge portion of the peripheral edge of the window is caused to rise.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Yamamura, Michio Inoue
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Patent number: 7322604Abstract: A gas generator is arranged in a vacant space around the seat to achieve effective utilization of a space for the seat. An inflatable seat bag is arranged above a seat pan. A seat cushion is installed above the seat bag. A gas introduction port is provided at a longitudinal end (the side of a side frame) of the seat bag, and a gas supply duct from a manifold at a distal end of an inflator is connected to the gas introduction port. The gas supply duct is disposed along the lower side of an S-spring. The inflator is mounted to a spindle with a bracket. A distal end of a gas introduction duct is connected to an end portion of a lap bag on the side of an anchor. A proximal end of the duct is connected to another gas outlet of the manifold.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Takata CorporationInventors: Yasuo Itoga, Yoshiki Murakami
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Patent number: 7291378Abstract: The present invention relates to a trim panel assembly for a vehicle having integrated energy management characteristics and method of manufacture. The trim panel assembly comprises a panel made of a first material having a first panel surface and a second panel surface, a skin covering at least a portion of the first panel surface of the panel, with the skin being made of a second material less rigid then the first material, and a rib depending from the second panel surface away from the skin. The rib has at least a first portion being made of the second material.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.Inventors: Glenn A. Cowelchuk, Randy S. Reed, Michael P. Schoemann, John D. Youngs
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Patent number: 7229124Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a body shell element, an interior-covering part for the body shell element, an energy-absorbing deformation element arranged between the body shell element and the interior covering part, and a deformable supporting element connecting the interior-covering part to the body shell element. The deformation element is constructed as a sheet metal part in the shape of an elongated hollow profile, and includes at least one fastening leg and at least one deformation leg. The fastening leg is connected with the interior-covering part. The deformation leg starts out from the fastening leg and faces the body shell element. The deformation characteristics of the deformable supporting element are designed in consideration of the deformation characteristics of the deformation element. The deformation leg is arranged at a distance from the body shell element.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Klaus Luik, Werner Maier, Matthias Zierle