Operators With Knobs Or Handles Patents (Class 292/336.3)
  • Patent number: 8733139
    Abstract: The vehicle door hardware assembly includes exterior and interior housings each having a handle or paddle for opening the door. The outer housing includes a plunger which is normally extended, and can be retracted by either the exterior or interior handle when the door is unlocked. A deadbolt is also provided on the exterior housing. A main lock can be slid between locked and unlocked positions to preclude or allow movement of the paddle. A pair of key cylinders is provided on the exterior housing for actuating the deadbolt and the main lock. Power units can be connected to the lock and deadbolt via actuators. The deadbolt and lock are also movable by a pair of knobs on the inside housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Trimark Corporation
    Inventor: Barbara J. Pickar
  • Patent number: 8733806
    Abstract: An actuating handle for a window or door including a fixing element coupled to a socket, the socket being selectively rotatable relative to a stop plate. The fixing element will allow insertion of a polygonal driver coupled to a handle from one direction through the socket, thereby rotationally coupling the handle and the socket, but will not allow the polygonal driver to be withdrawn in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Hoppe AG
    Inventors: Stefan Kuppelwieser, Stefan Holzknecht, Heinz-Eckhard Engel
  • Publication number: 20140138962
    Abstract: A door-opened-prevention mechanism comprises a lever member, and a biasing member biasing the lever member toward a set position. The lever member is assembled to a connection lever. The lever member is movable between the set position and a fallback position which is in a vehicle outer direction to the set position. When an inertia force, exerted on an outer handle toward the vehicle outer direction at the time of vehicle impact, is not exerted on the outer handle, the lever member is kept in the set position to enable a necessary and sufficient movement of the connection lever in a direction for opening a door, and when the inertia force is exerted on the outer handle, the lever member moves to the fallback position prior to movement of the outer handle for opening the door so as not to enable the necessary and sufficient movement of the connection lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Koichi Nagata, Nobukazu Araki
  • Patent number: 8727399
    Abstract: A door assembly for a vehicle comprises a vehicle door having an outside door panel, and a handle that is moveably mounted to the vehicle door. A latch actuator is operatively connected to the handle. Movement of the handle moves the latch actuator to an open position to allow opening of the door. An internal door part is connected to the outside door panel. The internal door part includes a contact area internally offset from the outside door panel. A counterbalancing member is cooperatively associated with the handle. During a crash condition causing deformation of the door and intrusion of the handle, the counterbalancing member engages the contact area of the internal door part to prevent the handle from moving the latch actuator to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Stephen Russell, Christopher Mampe, Kenichi Kitayama, Masatoshi Mori, Kenneth M Hartlaub
  • Patent number: 8727402
    Abstract: An exterior handle assembly for a vehicle door includes a movable handle member and a mounting structure. The mounting structure includes a predefined fracture line or line of weakening, whereby the reinforcing structure fractures along the line of weakening in the event a large external force is applied to the reinforcing structure. The handle assembly also includes a push surface that pushes against an inertia lock lever after fracture of the reinforcing structure to thereby push the inertia lock lever into a locked position to prevent unlatching of a vehicle door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Carl Bejune, Charles Gregory Bambanek
  • Patent number: 8727401
    Abstract: An inside door handle device includes: a handle base (10) fixed to an inner panel that composes a door interior of an automobile; an opening portion (11) formed of a through hole formed on one side of the handle base (10); an operation recessed portion (12) that has a recessed shape and is arranged adjacent to the opening portion (11) on the other side of the handle base (10); fixation portions (17) formed in the operation recessed portion (12) and fixed to the inner panel; a handle body (20) in which a grip portion (22) located on a tip end side is urged and held onto the operation recessed portion (12) while a base end side is being swingably supported on the opening portion (11) with handle support portions (14a) interposed therebetween; and a support beam (13) protruded on the opening portion (11) and formed into a fixed-fixed beam shape bent into an L-shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Alpha Corporation
    Inventors: Ryoichi Tanaka, Yutaka Saitoh
  • Publication number: 20140132012
    Abstract: A door handle apparatus includes: a handle body; a driven member; and a driving mechanism configured such that in a state where the driven member is at a first driving position, the handle body is positioned at a first handle position, and rotated to a second handle position by the driven member driven to a second driving position, and in a state where the driven member is at the second driving position, the handle body is rotatable or unrotatable from the second handle position in a first direction when subjected to a force in the first direction, and rotatable from the second handle position to a second direction opposite to the first direction when subjected to a force in the second direction, and the handle body is urged in the direction of being restored to the second handle position when rotating from the second handle position by the external force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masaki YOSHINO, Koichi NAGATA, Tatsuya SHIMIZU, Masayuki NOMURA
  • Patent number: 8720956
    Abstract: A tailgate synchronizer for coordinating mechanical communications between handles and locking assemblies in a vehicle V closure includes a synchronizer locking device moveable to a locked state for preventing the handles from unlatching the locking assemblies. The synchronizer further includes a pair of handle levers corresponding to the handles and a pair of actuator levers corresponding to the locking assemblies. Movement of the handles is selectively translated into unlatching of the lock assemblies based on a state of the locking assemblies. Movement of the handles is prevented from translating into unlatching of the lock assemblies when the synchronizer locking device is in the locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sean Murray
  • Patent number: 8720237
    Abstract: A rotary latch mechanism is provided for securing the lid of a container in a closed position wherein a mechanical advantage is employed to facilitate latching and unlatching of a latch plate of the rotary latch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Daws Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Williams
  • Publication number: 20140125071
    Abstract: A handle assembly for a vehicle door, the handle assembly comprising a fixed base portion attachable to a vehicle door, the fixed base portion having disposed therein a key cylinder forming part of a latch assembly for the vehicle door, at least the keyway of which key cylinder is exposed through an opening in the fixed base portion. A movable grab-handle portion is attachable to the vehicle door and movable relative to the fixed base portion. A push-push latch mechanism is disposed in the fixed base portion. A cover is pivotally connected to the fixed base portion. The cover is manually pivotally movable between a first, opened position in which the key cylinder is exposed and a second, closed position, in which the key cylinder is concealed beneath the cover. The cover is engageable with the push-push latch mechanism in the second, closed position thereof to secure the cover in the second, closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: Mark McWilliams
  • Publication number: 20140125072
    Abstract: A door handle for a vehicle is provided with a handle body and a handle cover. The handle body has on one end side thereof an engagement protrusion and a first arm, and on the other end side thereof a pin through-hole and a second arm. The handle cover has on one end side there of an engagement recess to which the engagement protrusion is connected so that the engagement protrusion can tilt, and the handle cover also has on the other end side thereof a connection pin inserted through the pin through-hole and penetrating through the pin through-hole. A decoration is provided to at least outer surface of the handle cover. The connection pin is welded and affixed to the pin through-hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Koichi Nagata, Nobukazu Araki, Naoya Asano
  • Publication number: 20140117682
    Abstract: Select variations may include a vehicle door locking system, which may have a vehicle door, a latch, a knob, a conduit an attachment, and a cable. The cable may extend through the conduit and connects the latch to the knob. The conduit may be connected only to the vehicle door but not to the latch or the knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Konchan, Frank J. Arabia, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140117683
    Abstract: An external handle device for a vehicle door has one end part of an operating handle supported by a support member mounted on a door having one end part supported on a vehicle body, and a holder for housing and holding an electrical component mounted on a base member. A mounting portion mounted on an end wall on the other end side of the door has a mounting hole obliquely intersecting an outer panel and is provided integrally with the base member, an engagement hole extending along the axis of the mounting hole and having one end opening in a blocked part at the inner end of the mounting hole is provided in the mounting portion so that the other end opens on the periphery of the mounting portion, and an engagement projection that engages with the other end part of the engagement hole is provided on a holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA HONDA LOCK
    Inventor: Tadashi Saitou
  • Publication number: 20140109758
    Abstract: A latch, latching system and other components are disclosed that are particularly well suited for use with the heavy doors of armored military vehicles. Some component embodiments are usable in normal and emergency modes to provide access, entry, egress and rescue through vehicle door openings. Included among the disclosed components are latches having separate operating components that can be used to retract spring projected latch bolts and that usable advantageously in pairs and readily reconfigurable for use on left, right, front and rear doors of a vehicle at locations where door thicknesses differ. Also disclosed are operating linkages intended to extend exteriorly of door armor to turn shafts to operate latches situated interiorly of the door armor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventors: Lee S. Weinerman, Scott A. Arthurs, David J. Wolf, Gerald M. Szpak, John W. Jostworth
  • Patent number: 8701353
    Abstract: A flush door handle includes a powered actuator that shifts the handle from a fully retracted position to an intermediate position. A user can then grasp the handle, and pull the handle to a fully open position to thereby unlatch the door latch. After a user releases the handle, it shifts to a closed position due to spring force or a powered actuator. The door latch may also comprise a fully powered version wherein the handle shifts from a closed position to an open position, and a powered door latch releases the door latch if predefined conditions are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Rajesh K. Patel, Kosta Papanikolaou
  • Patent number: 8690204
    Abstract: A closure assembly includes a handle assembly having a grab bar. The grab bar is moveable in a normal direction relative to an exterior panel surface of the closure assembly between a retracted position and an extended position. When in the retracted position, an outboard surface of the grab bar is disposed approximately flush with the exterior panel surface. The closure assembly includes a position sensor configured for sensing the presence of an operator, and signals the handle assembly to move the grab bar into the extended position when the presence of the operator is sensed. When the grab bar is grasped, the handle assembly signals a latch mechanism to move into an un-latched position to allow the closure assembly to open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Steven C. Lang, Hesham A. Ezzat, Joseph M. Polewarczyk
  • Patent number: 8684425
    Abstract: A child lever includes an operation portion, which is supported slidably and rotatably on a cover fixed to a casing, and which passes through a panel hole provided in a door to be exposed to the outside. The child lever is allowed to move to an unlocking position, in which the child lever is allowed to rotate together with an inside lever so as to transmit rotation of the inside lever to an opening member, and a locking position, in which the child lever is not allowed to rotate together with the inside lever so as not to transmit rotation of the inside lever to the opening member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Act Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoharu Nagaoka
  • Publication number: 20140075844
    Abstract: An interlocking assembly for a dual hinged door, includes a first latch and second latch each rotatably secured to opposing sides of the door. Each Latch is linked to a first and second interference member respectively, such that positioning the first latch in an open position rotates first interference member in a path of rotation of the second interference member. In that configuration, second interference member is not permitted to rotate and prevents the second latch from opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: PANDUIT CORP.
    Inventors: Jonathan D. Walker, Lawrence A. Hillegonds, Robert L. Fritz
  • Publication number: 20140049058
    Abstract: This door handle device is provided with: a handle base; an introduction opening that is opened in a door handle and that supports the handle base; an operation handle that is connected to the handle base; and a gasket that is disposed between the handle base and the operation handle. A handle stopper, of which one end passes through the introduction aperture and is borne by the handle base, and of which the other end contacts the operation handle, is integrally provided to the gasket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicants: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD., ALPHA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuichi Kudoh, Shinji Ichikawa, Ryuichi Yoshida, Kouji Tsuji
  • Patent number: 8651538
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lock comprising a lockable knob, formed by a closure tongue (1) non-rotatably mounted on the shaft of a cylinder (2) which rotates in a casing (3) under the action of a knob (4). The knob (4) is mounted on the cylinder (2) and casing (3) such that it can move linearly between two end positions, namely an operating position and a locked position. The casing (3) and the knob (4) include at least two geometrically arranged linear guides (33, 43) which, during the linear movement of the knob (4), are engaged with, or released from one another. In addition, the cylinder (2) and the knob (4) include radial openings (20, 40) which are positioned coaxially in the locked position and offset axially in the operating position. The cylinder (2) and the casing (3) include geometrically arranged cams (22, 32) which limit the rotational movement of the cylinder (2) in the casing (3) between the tongue (1) -opening and -closing positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ojmar, S.A.
    Inventor: Ricardo Sendin Martin
  • Patent number: 8646819
    Abstract: A latch includes a base, a drive shaft and cam, and a handle attached pivotally to the drive shaft. The handle is moveable between a closed position, a pop-up position, and an open position. A slide plate is attached slidably to the base and engaged with the cam. A swivel arm is attached pivotally to the base and the slide plate. A bolt assembly is attached to the swivel arm, and a plunger is mounted within the base. In its closed position, the handle engages the plunger to engage a switch and the bolt assembly engages a structure. In the handle's pop-up position, the plunger moves to a retracted position and disengages the switch. When the handle is moved to the open position, the drive shaft and cam are rotated so that the slide plate slides and the swivel arm pivots to swing the bolt assembly away from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Thai Do, Chi Pan
  • Publication number: 20140035300
    Abstract: A flush mounted, vehicle door handle includes a housing having an outer wall defining an interior recess and a handle pivotally coupled to the housing. A first portion of the handle is configured for pressing on a first side of a fulcrum and a second portion of the handle is configured for puffing on a second side of the fulcrum. The handle is disposed within the interior recess of the housing when positioned in a first, resting position. The first portion of the door handle has a back surface provided for actuating a door latch mechanism of an existing vehicle door when the housing is mounted to a door panel of a vehicle. Thus, when the handle is pivoted about the fulcrum to a second position, the door latch mechanism is actuated causing the door latch mechanism to release the automobile door allowing the door to open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: KINDIG-IT DESIGNS, INC.
    Inventor: David R. Kindig
  • Patent number: 8641107
    Abstract: A latch apparatus is disclosed comprising a latch supporting member and a latch member pivotally connected to the latch supporting member. The latch member comprises an extendable handle arm member. The latch apparatus further comprises a tray member connected to the latch supporting member and a cage member connected to the tray member. According to an exemplary embodiment, the latch member further comprises an engagement arm member comprising a first engaging member. Alternatively, the latch member further comprises a resilient member comprising a first engaging member. Moreover, the extendable handle arm member comprises a second engaging member. Furthermore, the latch supporting member comprises a third engaging member and a fourth engaging member. When the extendable handle arm member is in a latched position, the first engaging member is engaged with the cage member and the third engaging member, and the second engaging member is engaged with the fourth engaging member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Morgan Y L Wu, Ian Lin
  • Publication number: 20140028036
    Abstract: Provided is a position holding device for a rotating lever, which includes a rotating lever and a torsion spring, and is capable of elastically holding the rotating lever at the two positions including a first position and a second position. The torsion spring includes a coiled part, and a first arm part and a second arm part each extending from the coiled part and facing each other across an engagement portion of the rotating lever. The first arm part includes a mountain portion formed at an intermediate portion thereof. The second arm part includes an urging portion. As a result, an urging force generated by the urging portion can be applied to the rotating lever as a braking force against an urging force generated by the mountain portion. Consequently, it is possible to reduce an abutment noise generated when the rotating lever abuts against a stopper member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryujiro Akizuki, Takashi Nishio, Nobuko Watanabe, Masayuki Tomochika, Masanari Iwata, Yasuhiko Sono
  • Patent number: 8636309
    Abstract: The invention relates to an external handle on doors or hatches of vehicles, using a two piece (10, 20) housing, wherein a cavity (21) is generated between said pieces. A sensor (31, 32) is arranged in said cavity in a container (30). On operation, the sensor carries out certain functions in the lock. According to the invention, failures caused by the ingress of fluids into the cavity (21) can be avoided, wherein the container (30) is formed from an elastic molded mass (35), in which the sensor (31, 32) and optionally some further electric and/or electronic components for the sensor operation are embedded. An elastic surface (36) is achieved on at least one end piece of the container (30) by means of the molded mass (35). When assembled, the container (30) is pressed (41) with said elastic surface (36) against an inner surface (29) of the housing piece (10, 20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignees: HUF North America Automotive Parts Mfg Corp., HUF Huelsbeck & Fuerst GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventors: Ulrich Müller, Marion Kilian
  • Publication number: 20140015262
    Abstract: When activated, a handle assembly selectively allows the door latch of a door of a motor vehicle to be released. The handle assembly includes a base fixedly secured to the door and a handle assembly which in its passive state has minimal to no presence in the opening chain of the door latch. The handle assembly includes a handle strap with a handle grip or activation lever which allows completion of the force chain to the latch, thus selectively allowing desired door opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: HUF NORTH AMERICA AUTOMOTIVE PARTS MFG. CORP.
    Inventor: HUF NORTH AMERICA AUTOMOTIVE PARTS Mfg. Corp
  • Publication number: 20140015263
    Abstract: A handle assembly for preventing inadvertent opening of a motor vehicle door during a crash event. The handle assembly includes an activation mechanism coupled to an electrically-activated leg. When the activation mechanism is activated, then the electrically-activated leg is moved to an engaged position to engage an actuation pawl to prevent rotation of the actuation pawl so that, upon actuation of a handle strap, the actuation pawl engages and actuates the door latch release. However, if the activation mechanism is not activated, then the leg does not engage the pawl, and a movement of the handle strap does not actuate the door latch release as the pawl is permitted to rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Huf North America Automotive Parts Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: Lynn D. Da Deppo, Ehab Kamal
  • Publication number: 20140015261
    Abstract: A paddle style handle assembly is provided for an RV, emergency vehicle or utility vehicle door or compartment. The assembly includes a housing and pivotal paddle which form a paddle module. The assembly also includes an ornamental bezel. The paddle module and bezel are compression mounted from the interior and exterior sides of a door panel, respectively, so that the panel is sandwiched between the paddle module and the bezel. The housing includes screw holders with molded flash membranes to hold screws prior to assembly on the door panel. The housing includes pockets formed around the paddle axle for receipt of gaskets to inhibit water infiltration. A counterbalance and a power lock actuator may be provided on the paddle module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: TriMark Corporation
    Inventors: Jayden F. Burns, David L. Root, Alexander C. Everett, Jennifer L. Bearman
  • Patent number: 8622444
    Abstract: The door latch mechanism independently operated by first and second handles of the door handle assembly comprising a cam member having a cam surface which facilitates translation of movement of the handles to displacement of the cam member. The cam member can be coupled to a latch member and move the latch member between an extended and retracted position. A door lock mechanism can prevent displacement of the second door handle while simultaneously allowing displacement of the first door handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Universal Industrial Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Neil L. Marko
  • Publication number: 20140001778
    Abstract: An operating device for a vehicle door latch comprises an inside handle, a base member fixed to a door, and inside lever connected to the inside handle, a locking lever, a housing, a motor, an output lever, a detected lever coupled to the inside handle and an inside-handle detecting switch. The motion of the inside handle is detected by the inside-handle detecting switch via the detected lever of the device to make the door open or close. Another detecting switch detects motion of a swinging member outside the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Kazuhito Yokomori, Kohei Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20140001777
    Abstract: A interior door handle includes one end portion connected to a door trim to form a hinge point, and a push surface which is pushed down by a finger is formed at a position spaced apart from the hinge point. A push grip is rotated around the hinge point by a force applied to the push surface to release locking of a door latch. As a result, the door is conveniently opened by only one-touch push operation, and, in particular, occupants having a relatively weak joint or finger disability can manipulate the door open by only the one-touch push operation of pressing the push surface down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Minseok Choi, Youngwook Song, Kichang Yi
  • Publication number: 20140001779
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for changing a kicking state of a window and/or a door, comprising at least one handle housing that can be connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the window and/or the door and a handle that is rotatably mounted relatice to the handle housing. The invention further comprises at least one electronic evaluation circuit for detecting the position of the handle, wherein the evaluation circuit is provided with at least one primed circuit board arranged, at least in part, inside the handle housing and/or the handle, and accommodating a first sensor. The handle is connected in a ivotably secure manner to at least one connecting device, which extends through the handle housing, by way of which the locking state of the window and/or the door can be changed, wherein the primed circuit board is connected to the connecting device and/or the handle in a pivotably secure manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Heike Bedoian, Samuel Bedoian, Alexander Zurkan
  • Publication number: 20140001776
    Abstract: An actuator mechanism for a door latch is provided. The actuator mechanism may include a first actuator and a second actuator. The first actuator can be pivotably coupled to a first support structure about a first axis. Moreover, the first actuator can include an engaging tip, a first engagement and a second engagement. The second actuator can be pivotably coupled to a second support structure about a second axis. In response to the movement of the arm of the second actuator about the second axis, the first engagement of the first actuator can rotate about the first axis to move the engaging tip to release the door latch. Alternatively, in response to the movement of the second engagement of the first actuator, the second engagement of the first actuator can rotate about the first axis to move the engaging tip to release the door latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Pradipdumar J. Tanpure, Dale B. Higdon, Raymond D. Hendrix, Derick L. Hinderliter
  • Patent number: 8616592
    Abstract: A simply structured and smoothly operable latch device of a door in which a latch can be infallibly released by operating a handle from any of upper, lower, right, and left sides. The handle (1) having operation parts (1e) at the upper, lower, left, and right inner edges of the front opening part thereof is received in a handle receiving part (14) formed in a door (3) and having an opening in its front surface. The handle (1) can be moved to a non-operating position where the rear surface of the handle abuts on the rear end surface of the handle receiving part (14) or to an operating position where the handle (1) is tilted so that one of the upper and lower edges or one of the left and right edges is nearer to the person operating the handle (1) than the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Okamura Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Kitada, Yutaka Sugihara
  • Patent number: 8616595
    Abstract: An actuator assembly for a vehicle door latch includes, but is not limited to, a pushable member. The actuator assembly further includes a mounting member connected to the pushable member and configured for connection to a vehicle door. The mounting member is further configured to mount the pushable member to the vehicle door in a manner that enables the pushable member to be pushed from a closed position to an open position. The actuator assembly further includes a latch engaging member connected to the mounting member and configured for engagement with a latch of the vehicle door. The latch engaging member is configured to move the latch from a latched position to an unlatched position when the pushable member moves from the closed position to the open position, whereby the user is enabled to both unlatch the vehicle door and open the vehicle door with a single pushing movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Carl W. Wellborn, Sr., Rory Windrim, Hesham A Ezzat
  • Patent number: 8616591
    Abstract: A push plate assembly (10) that may be used for driving a bolting mechanism is disclosed. The push plate assembly (10) may be included as part of a push pad assembly or panic bar assembly, such as may be fitted to single or multipoint bolt mechanisms, for example, those fitted to emergency exit doors. The push plate assembly comprises a housing (32), a push plate (36), a slide plate (45) and a drive cam (55). The drive cam (55) is arranged to rotate within the housing so as to rotationally drive a bolt mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Surelock McGill Limited
    Inventor: Stuart Kenneth Parker
  • Patent number: 8616611
    Abstract: A door assembly for a vehicle includes a door frame and a door lock. A force transmitting mechanism has one end connected to the door lock and another end is premounted on a door module housing. The door module housing is mounted to the door frame and a trim panel secured to the door frame. A method includes the steps of premounting the door module to the door frame, securing the door panel to the door frame and connecting an door opening mechanism to the force transmitting mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson Controls GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Alexander Schidan, Milan Skultety, Thorsten Meyer, Hans-Helmut Mieglitz, Frank Zagromski
  • Patent number: 8616594
    Abstract: An action with a handle on a vehicle is transmitted to an operational unit in a door, and then to a locking-unlocking unit via a first action-transmitting member. The locking-unlocking unit allows the door latch to disengage from a striker of the vehicle via a second action-transmitting member. The door of the vehicle opens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Act Corporation
    Inventors: Ryoji Shimura, Hirotaka Nishijima, Hajime Yoneyama
  • Publication number: 20130334829
    Abstract: A lock actuation assembly includes an escutcheon and a handle having a first end pivotably connected to the escutcheon at an interface. A link arm is pivotably mounted in the escutcheon and also comprises a first end. A projection is engaged with the first end of the handle and the first end of the link arm. A cam located in the escutcheon is rotatably engaged with a second end of the link arm. The cam includes a tailpiece adapted for engagement with a locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Amesbury Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Hagemeyer, Dan Raap, Gary E. Tagtow, Tim Eggebraaten
  • Publication number: 20130318881
    Abstract: A door interlock apparatus is disclosed. The door interlock apparatus has a body configured to couple to a first one of a door and an enclosure structure, the body having one or more angled self-locating features, a locking protrusion extending from a surface of the body and configured to couple with the locking member of an interlock mechanism, and a misalignment-accommodating mechanism configured and adapted to allow motion of the body. The door interlock apparatus aligns the locking protrusion and locking member during door closing, even when the door and enclosure structure are substantially misaligned. Electrical component enclosures, door interlock assemblies, and methods of assembling a door interlock assembly are also provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Truett Ramsey Thompson, Juan Carlos Cortes Arreygue, Terrance Woodyard
  • Patent number: 8596402
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device for controlling the opening of an automobile door (100). According to the invention, the device (130) includes means (131, 132, 133) for blocking said control in the event of a side impact. The invention can be used for automobile safety with respect to side impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Valeo Securite Habitacle
    Inventor: Ahmed El Abidi
  • Patent number: 8590948
    Abstract: An outer operational device includes a cover mounted to an outer side of a door. The outer operational device includes a handle and an actuating member operatively connected between the handle and a latch. A sliding block is movable between an alignment position and an alignment position under control of a driving device through electrification. When the sliding block is in the engagement position, a locking block locks the actuating member to prevent rotation of the handle, and the outer operational device is in a locked state avoiding retraction of the latch. When the sliding block is in the disengagement position, the sliding block allows rotation of the actuating member and the handle, and the outer operational device is in an unlocked state allowing retraction of the latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: I-Tek Metal Mfg. Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chun-Meng Shen
  • Patent number: 8590949
    Abstract: A cylindrical lock includes a retractor (131) mounted between inner and outer operational devices (10, 12) and operably connected to a latch (779). The inner operational device (10) includes an inner chassis (20), an inner spindle (76), and an inner lining (60) made of a material harder than the inner spindle (76). The outer operational device (12) includes an outer chassis (305), an outer spindle (379), and an outer lining (353) made of a material harder than the outer spindle (379). Inner and outer returning devices (38A, 38B) are provided for returning the inner and outer spindles (76, 379). A torsion spring (50A, 50B) of each of the inner and outer returning devices (38A, 38B) is mounted to a push ring (40A, 40B) before assembly with the inner and outer chassis (20, 305), allowing easy assembly of the torsion springs (50A, 50B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: I-Tek Metal Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bill Wang
  • Patent number: 8590947
    Abstract: A locking device for a sliding door includes an outer handle (10) provided on outside surface of the sliding door, a cable (20), a door lock switching element on inside surface of the sliding door, an unlocking lever/string (30) and a lock (70). Wherein, the outer handle (10) is joined with the door lock switching element on inside surface of the sliding door via the cable (20). The door lock switching element is joined with the lock (70) via the unlocking lever/string (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Chery Automobile Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chao Qi, Yinghui Lu, Zhongying Dou, Lihua Lu, Xinhua Gao
  • Patent number: 8584494
    Abstract: A door handle has an elongated member pivotally connected with a plate member. The elongated member has a toe portion which interacts with the plate member. In this way, the elongated member is at least partially retained by the plate member at each end. The door handle provides an anti-ligature design that thwarts suicide attempts by persons attempting to affix or hang ligatures on the door handle. The door handle is also easily operable by those with disabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Accurate Lock and Hardware Co., LLC
    Inventors: Ronald Salvatore, Rodd Salvatore, Francis Colligan
  • Publication number: 20130300136
    Abstract: A door handle assembly includes a door operator having an operator portion and a shank extending from the operator portion. The door handle assembly also includes a housing with a base portion for mounting to the door and a bearing portion extending from the base portion. The housing houses a portion of a spindle that extends outwardly from the bearing portion to accept the shank of the door operator. The connections of the door operator with the spindle and the spindle to the housing are configured to reduce wobble in the door handle assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: Schlage Look Company LLC
    Inventors: C. Suresha, M. Vijayakumar, Brian H. Hood, Nathanael S. Murphy, Jason C. Clifford
  • Patent number: 8579339
    Abstract: An outside handle assembly of a vehicle door includes an escutcheon disposed in the outer panel of the vehicle door, a handle body disposed at a vehicular outer side of the escutcheon, a first protection bracket disposed at the vehicular inner side of the escutcheon, the first protection bracket comprising an engaging hole configured to receive a key cylinder, and a second protection bracket disposed at the vehicular inner side of the escutcheon to cover a periphery of the key cylinder, wherein the second protection bracket is coupled to the inner panel of the vehicle door and comprises at least one support contacting the first protection bracket, and wherein the second protection bracket is arranged to receive an impact load exerted upon the first protection bracket toward the vehicular inner side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Keita Abe
  • Publication number: 20130285393
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment, electronic control is provided for the locking function of Lift-Handle and T-Handle products, while maintaining desirable mechanical latching mechanism functions and operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Calin Roatis, Gabriel Ribu, William Denison
  • Publication number: 20130285390
    Abstract: A locking device for a handle assembly of a motor vehicle door including a base and a handle portion includes a lock cup fixedly secured to the base and having a plurality of teeth. A spool is rotatably coupled to the lock cup and operably connected to the handle portion. The spool has a pawl rotatably mounted thereto and includes a pawl pin extending out therefrom. An inertia element is disposed within the lock cup and is rotatable out of a rest position upon rotation of the spool. The inertia element includes an elongated slot extending between first and second ends for receiving the pawl pin therewithin. A spring extends between the spool and the inertia element. The spring biases the inertia element towards the rest position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Krystof P. Jankowski, Ehab Khalid Kamal
  • Publication number: 20130285392
    Abstract: A latch assembly for securing a furnace door to a furnace casing includes a latch for placement on an inside of the furnace door; a knob for placement on a front surface of the furnace door; a latch plate for placement between the latch and the knob; and a threaded screw for threadably coupling the knob to the latch. The latch plate supports the weight of the furnace door in a closed position and reduces a pinch force used for rotating the knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Nitu Gupta, Larry D. Rieke, Edward Foxworthy