With Grille Or Radiator Guard Patents (Class 293/115)
  • Publication number: 20130049384
    Abstract: Provided is a push bumper and mounting system for mounting a push bumper to the bumper of a vehicle. The push bumper and mounting system includes a mounting bracket that is configured to quickly and easily attach to the bumper of the vehicle. The mounting bracket is designed to connect to the front portion of the bumper, without requiring a connection adjacent the rear portion of the bumper. The mounting bracket may only partially circumscribe the bumper, which may facilitate mounting of the bracket onto the bumper because the space between the bumper and the vehicle may be very small.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Peter Kekich, JR., Ron Storer
  • Patent number: 8348312
    Abstract: A lower grille assembly for connection with a front bumper structure of a vehicle includes a frame and a plurality of widthwise extending grille deflectors extending between sides of the frame, spaced-apart from each other along a height of the lower grille assembly. At least one grille deflector has one or more scoop regions having a trailing edge that extends upwardly such that the trailing edge is located above a leading edge of the scoop region for directing the air flowing by the trailing edge of the scoop region in an upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart William Bailey
  • Patent number: 8307932
    Abstract: A front part of a motor vehicle body is provided that includes, but is not limited to a radiator and a bumper support transversely extending in front of the radiator and an air passage aligned with the radiator and formed in the bumper support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Claus Steller, Matthias Stahl-Offergeld, Gunther Heim, Viet-Hung Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8276953
    Abstract: A bumper system for a motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to, a bumper cross member, which is fixed to a stiff frame of the motor vehicle, a pliable bumper shell, a compressible structure which is formed between an upper area of the shell and the cross member and one support section which supports the lower area of the shell, which, together with a crash box holding the cross member is anchored to the flange plates of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Matthias Erzgräber, Theobald Hock, Heino Wentzien, Stefan Glaser, Andreas Wüst
  • Patent number: 8251438
    Abstract: Forward structure of a motor vehicle includes a frame structure, a bumper beam disposed forward of and connected to the frame structure, and a radiator frame disposed forward of the frame structure and behind the bumper beam. First and second swing arms are connected to the radiator frame at respective first and second forward pivot axes and are connected to the frame structure at respective first and second rear pivot axes. The four pivot axes are substantially parallel to one another and substantially transverse to the vehicle, such that a frontal impact urging the bumper beam rearward against the radiator frame causes the radiator frame to pivot about the swing arms. Forward-most portions of the frame structure, immediately adjacent to the bumper beam, may take the form of deformation elements or crush cans that are designed to yield in a manner to absorb crash energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Bernd Linden, Bert Niessen, Joergen Hilmann
  • Patent number: 8246105
    Abstract: A frontal structure is provided for a motor vehicle that includes, but is not limited to a support structure that can be connected to longitudinal members of a front frame, to which a cooling module is fastened with a retaining device, and a bumper cross member mounted ahead of the cooling module. The retaining device includes, but is not limited to at least two cooling module holders that are attached to a component selected from support structure and cooling module and which are provided with elongate recesses, in which retaining elements attached to the respectively other component are anchored. The retaining device is configured in such a manner that in the event of a backward yielding of the bumper cross member, a translational displacement of the cooling module in the direction opposite to the direction of travel is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Udo Mildner
  • Publication number: 20120181818
    Abstract: Forward structure of a motor vehicle includes a frame structure, a bumper beam disposed forward of and connected to the frame structure, and a radiator frame disposed forward of the frame structure and behind the bumper beam. First and second swing arms are connected to the radiator frame at respective first and second forward pivot axes and are connected to the frame structure at respective first and second rear pivot axes. The four pivot axes are substantially parallel to one another and substantially transverse to the vehicle, such that a frontal impact urging the bumper beam rearward against the radiator frame causes the radiator frame to pivot about the swing arms. Forward-most portions of the frame structure, immediately adjacent to the bumper beam, may take the form of deformation elements or crush cans that are designed to yield in a manner to absorb crash energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Bernd Linden, Bert Niessen, Joergen Hilmann
  • Patent number: 8220849
    Abstract: A device, and a kit a parts for forming such a device, for removably attaching an accessory, such as a winch, to a motor vehicle comprises a brush guard in the shape of a frame that provides support for the vehicle accessory. The brush guard is formed by two upright members and at least one cross-member interconnecting and retaining the two upright members in rigid, spaced-apart relationship. Each of the upright members has two substantially horizontally extending mounting bars, one at each end, for its removable attachment to the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: Robert L. Beaird, III, Eric M. Beaird
  • Patent number: 8196978
    Abstract: A carrier for a front end module as a front structure of a vehicle, and a front end module system, comprises a sub frame formed to extend horizontally across an opening of a quadrangular main frame in which a radiator is to be arranged, and air guides are formed on the main frame and the sub frame to project forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hee Sun Shin
  • Patent number: 8157303
    Abstract: A vehicle end structure mainly includes a vehicle bumper fascia and a grille assembly. The vehicle bumper fascia includes a sill portion and a receiving member extending from the sill portion. The receiving member defines a channel with an opening extending in a forward vehicle facing direction. The grille assembly includes inner grille and outer grille members that are coupled together. The inner grille member has a support member formed at a periphery of the inner grille member. The support member is disposed in the channel of the receiving member to limit movement of the inner grille member in a direction normal to the forward vehicle facing direction. The outer grille member is disposed on a forward vehicle facing side of the inner grille member to conceal the support member from view in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Hugo Fortin
  • Patent number: 8128153
    Abstract: A front section of a motor vehicle body encompasses a bumper and bumper bracket that are designed to retreat during a collision while absorbing energy and momentum, a fresh air passage and a sealing element situated behind the bumper for modulating the throughput of the fresh air passage, which can be dragged along by the retreating bumper or bumper bracket. The sealing element has situated upstream from it a gap that allows the bumper and bumper bracket to retreat without simultaneously taking the sealing element with it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Volker Bernt, Rolf Ewert
  • Patent number: 8128158
    Abstract: A bumper for a front end of a vehicle includes a body having an opening defining an air flow inlet. The opening is elongated in the transverse direction of the body and is defined by spaced apart transverse walls and spaced apart side walls. A grille is disposed in the opening. The grille includes at least one generally horizontal member having at least one sound attenuating member attached thereto and configured to at least partially alter the air flow passing through the grille to mitigate resonance associated with the flow of air through the grill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwi C. Davis, Aaron R. Kerestan
  • Publication number: 20120049545
    Abstract: A bumper for a front end of a vehicle includes a body having an opening defining an air flow inlet. The opening is elongated in the transverse direction of the body and is defined by spaced apart transverse walls and spaced apart side walls. A grille is disposed in the opening. The grille includes at least one generally horizontal member having at least one sound attenuating member attached thereto and configured to at least partially alter the air flow passing through the grille to mitigate resonance associated with the flow of air through the grill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kwi C. Davis, Aaron R. Kerestan
  • Patent number: 8118337
    Abstract: A bumper is provided with to-be-engaged projections, a radiator grille is provided with engaging projections. The radiator grille is allowed to move and approach bumper rearward of a vehicle. According to this configuration, the engaging projections engage the to-be-engaged projections and they are engaged with and fixed to each other. At this time, a bumper-side seizing unit of the bumper is fitted into a grille-side seizing unit of the radiator grille, thereby limiting the vertical direction. In an engaged state between the engaging projections and the to-be-engaged projections, an inclining surface of one of the engaging projections comes into contact with a rearward inclining surface of the one of the to-be-engaged projections, and an inclining surface of the other engaging projection is separated from a rearward inclining surface of the other to-be-engaged projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadayoshi Nakayama
  • Patent number: 8100444
    Abstract: A bumper system for a motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to, a bumper cross member, which is fixed to a stiff frame of the motor vehicle, a pliable bumper shell, a compressible structure which is formed between an upper area of the shell and the cross member and one support section which supports the lower area of the shell, which, together with a crash box holding the cross member is anchored to the flange plates of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Matthias Erzgräber, Theobald Hock, Heino Wentzien, Stefan Glaser, Andreas Wüst
  • Patent number: 8070195
    Abstract: A radiator grille of an automobile includes a plastic main grille provided with plural air vents and plural positioning bases formed in the inside. Each of the positioning bases has a plugging groove for being inserted with a hooking member, which is made of metal with a locking portion located at one end, a blocking portion elastically extended outward, and a hunched positioning portion formed outwardly. So, with the hooking members made of metal to possess a strong strength and elasticity, they are not to be easily broken owing to improper operation while being assembled with the main grille. Moreover, the radiator grille can not only be conveniently and swiftly assembled, but also firmly positioned in a car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Li-Yueh Huang-Tsai
  • Publication number: 20110291430
    Abstract: A lower grille assembly for connection with a front bumper structure of a vehicle includes a frame and a plurality of widthwise extending grille deflectors extending between sides of the frame, spaced-apart from each other along a height of the lower grille assembly. At least one grille deflector has one or more scoop regions having a trailing edge that extends upwardly such that the trailing edge is located above a leading edge of the scoop region for directing the air flowing by the trailing edge of the scoop region in an upward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart William Bailey
  • Patent number: 8020905
    Abstract: A bumper is provided with to-be-engaged projections, a radiator grille is provided with engaging projections. The radiator grille is allowed to move and approach bumper rearward of a vehicle. According to this configuration, the engaging projections engage the to-be-engaged projections and they are engaged with and fixed to each other. At this time, a bumper-side seizing unit of the bumper is fitted into a grille-side seizing unit of the radiator grille, thereby limiting the vertical direction. In an engaged state between the engaging projections and the to-be-engaged projections, an inclining surface of one of the engaging projections comes into contact with a rearward inclining surface of the one of the to-be-engaged projections, and an inclining surface of the other engaging projection is separated from a rearward inclining surface of the other to-be-engaged projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadayoshi Nakayama
  • Patent number: 8007035
    Abstract: A structure of a vehicle body is provided with an upper radiator support disposed in an upper front area of an engine compartment and an upper member supported by the upper radiator support. The upper member is disposed between the upper radiator support and a front portion of a hood covering the upper portion of the engine compartment. The upper member is provided with a main body portion extending along a lateral direction of a vehicle at an upper portion of the upper radiator support, a leg portion extending downwardly from each lateral end of the main body portion, and a hood lock disposed between the leg portions. Lower ends of the leg portions are coupled to the upper radiator support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kou Jyo, Koji Yasuda
  • Patent number: 8002072
    Abstract: A frontal structure is provided for a motor vehicle. The frontal structure includes, but is not limited to a support structure, to which a radiator is fastened and on which a bumper girder is mounted in front of the radiator in such a manner that it yields backward toward the radiator in case of an impact. The fastening of the radiator to the support structure is formed by a frame, in which the radiator is retained and which is in turn anchored to the support structure via connection elements which detach if a maximum force is exceeded. The frame is adapted to the form of the bumper girder and the radiator to come into contact with the bumper girder earlier than the radiator in case of yielding backward of the bumper girder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Heinrich Schmahl
  • Publication number: 20110187134
    Abstract: A front part of a motor vehicle body is provided that includes, but is not limited to a radiator and a bumper support transversely extending in front of the radiator and an air passage aligned with the radiator and formed in the bumper support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Claus STELLER, Matthias STAHL-OFFERGELD, Gunther HEIM, Viet-Hung NGUYEN
  • Publication number: 20110140464
    Abstract: A frontal structure is provided for a motor vehicle that includes, but is not limited to a support structure that can be connected to longitudinal members of a front frame, to which a cooling module is fastened with a retaining device, and a bumper cross member mounted ahead of the cooling module. The retaining device includes, but is not limited to at least two cooling module holders that are attached to a component selected from support structure and cooling module and which are provided with elongate recesses, in which retaining elements attached to the respectively other component are anchored. The retaining device is configured in such a manner that in the event of a backward yielding of the bumper cross member, a translational displacement of the cooling module in the direction opposite to the direction of travel is possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Udo MILDNER
  • Publication number: 20110133498
    Abstract: A radiator grille of an automobile includes a plastic main grille provided with plural air vents and plural positioning bases formed in the inside. Each of the positioning bases has a plugging groove for being inserted with a hooking member, which is made of metal with a locking portion located at one end, a blocking portion elastically extended outward, and a hunched positioning portion formed outwardly. So, with the hooking members made of metal to possess a strong strength and elasticity, they are not to be easily broken owing to improper operation while being assembled with the main grille. Moreover, the radiator grille can not only be conveniently and swiftly assembled, but also firmly positioned in a car.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Li-Yueh HUANG-TSAI
  • Publication number: 20110057480
    Abstract: A lower grille assembly for connection with a front bumper structure of a vehicle includes a frame and a covering portion supported by the frame. A lower grille cavity filler extends downwardly beyond the frame. The lower grille cavity filler is sized and arranged to be received within a cavity formed by the front bumper structure and located below the lower grille assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Idaresit N. Usoro, Daisuke N. Hirose, Jason Stadtherr
  • Publication number: 20110049914
    Abstract: A device, and a kit a parts for forming such a device, for removably attaching an accessory, such as a winch, to a motor vehicle comprises a brush guard in the shape of a frame that provides support for the vehicle accessory. The brush guard is formed by two upright members and at least one cross-member interconnecting and retaining the two upright members in rigid, spaced-apart relationship. Each of the upright members has two substantially horizontally extending mounting bars, one at each end, for its removable attachment to the motor vehicle. The upright members thus form two upper mounting bars and the two lower mounting bars which extend horizontally outward toward the vehicle. The upper mounting bars are removably connectable to two upper mounting brackets attached to the vehicle frame in spaced-apart relationship; the lower mounting bars are removably connectable to two lower mounting receptacles attached to the vehicle frame below the bumper. Mechanical fasteners (e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: ROBERT L. BEAIRD, III, Eric M. Beaird
  • Patent number: 7896409
    Abstract: Vehicle fascia assembly includes a plastic fascia panel and a grille frame. The fascia panel has a grille opening defined by a flange extending rearward from the show surface toward the back side of the fascia panel. The flange has a plurality of flexure fingers at spaced intervals along the flange. The grille frame has a forward facing show surface and has a C-shaped channel molded around the outer edge of the show surface. Upon the assembly of the grille frame onto the backside of the fascia panel, the spaced apart channel legs fit onto the flange and the flexure fingers are biased and then engage with an abutment face on the grille frame, thereby attaching the grille frame onto the back side of the fascia panel without exposing the show surface of the fascia panel to injury by the grille frame during the assembly operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Steven A. Abdelnour, Steven D. Baer
  • Publication number: 20110006553
    Abstract: An accessory mounting system for on-road and off-road passenger vehicles, such as light-duty trucks and SUV's is provided. The system attaches to a vehicle to serve as an extension of the vehicle frame to provide a secure mounting location for vehicle accessories, such as a winch, grille guards, headlamp guards, and lights. The system provides for the attachment of numerous accessory components without modification or replacement of an original equipment bumper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: WARN INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Darren G. Fretz, Steven M. Schile
  • Patent number: 7857367
    Abstract: A front fender for an automobile; the fender is provided with an external element; with a supporting trestle, which supports the external element, presents a rigid horizontal supporting bar, and is adapted to be rigidly connected to a frame of the automobile; and with horizontal sword, which on one side is protrudingly mounted on the horizontal supporting bar and on the opposite side is rigidly secured to the external element at an upper portion of the external element itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Ferrari S.p.A.
    Inventors: Angelo Narducci, Mauro Del Monte, Manuele Ghirelli
  • Publication number: 20100314891
    Abstract: An assault grill for attachment to a vehicle is disclosed, the assault grill being configured for impacting doors in such a way that the door is deflected upwards. The grill includes a support member, one or more longitudinal support members, and two or more lateral members. In one embodiment, a first lateral member and a second lateral member are spaced different perpendicular distances from the longitudinal support member. In another embodiment, a line through a center of the first lateral member and a center of the second lateral member forms an angle with a line parallel to the longitudinal support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: OC, LLC
    Inventor: David Acosta
  • Patent number: 7832779
    Abstract: An accessory bumper for use on a host vehicle, such as a security vehicle, for providing collision protection when the host vehicle performs PIT maneuvers. The accessory bumper includes protective elements on front side of the vehicle, for protecting both the accessory bumper and also minimizing damage to the host vehicle's engine and other critical components necessary for the operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Ibis Tek, LLC
    Inventor: William E. Rosemeyer
  • Publication number: 20100283272
    Abstract: A brush guard used on a vehicle, for example, on a lawn tractor. The brush guard includes a latch mechanism that allows the brush guard to be closely mounted to the vehicle's engine cover for esthetic reasons. When an operator needs to open the vehicle's front engine cover, which typically tilts forward, the operator may release a latch mechanism and pivot the brush guard forward and away from the engine cover such that the engine cover is not blocked and may be opened. A tension spring returns a latch pin to the latched position such that no manipulation of the latch mechanism is needed when the brush guard is repositioned in an upright operating position. To reposition the brush guard into the operating position, the operator may lift the brush guard upwardly toward the vehicle engine cover, and the latch pin will reengage into its latching position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Agri-Fab, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Edward Schneider
  • Publication number: 20100244481
    Abstract: A vehicle front structure has a pair of right and left apron side members 1 each extending in the vehicle longitudinal direction and having a closed cross section structure, a bumper 2 located on the vehicle front side Fr of the front end portion of the apron side member 1, and a grille 5 attached to air intake openings 3, 4 in the bumper 2. In this vehicle front structure, shock absorbing parts 20 formed integrally with the grille 5 are disposed between the bumper 2 and the front end portions of the apron side members 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinji OHNO, Taku SUMINO, Hironori SHIGEMASU, Idemitsu MASUDA, Akito MIYAZAKI
  • Patent number: 7758106
    Abstract: A support for an automotive radiator grille that is supported from the hood assembly of the vehicle is formed of two major components, a support bracket and a rubber stop retained on the support bracket for engagement with the radiator grille when the hood is moved into the lowered, closed position. The rubber stop is formed in a circular configuration with a central projecting bumper that deflects into a cup formed by the support bracket to maintain contact with the radiator grille and provide self-adjusting positioning to accommodate build tolerances and variations in the hood assembly and mounted radiator grille. The rubber stop can be formed of multi-durometer elastomers to provide a tuning to the specific application for the radiator grille support. The rubber stop places a pre-load on the hood latch and closure mechanism through the spring-like deflection of the rubber stop into the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David B. Glickman, Joseph A. Hickey
  • Publication number: 20100163329
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle with a tool less maintainable drive system, and having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator. The vehicle has a frame, a plurality of wheels attached to the frame, a steering mechanism attached at least one of the plurality of wheels, an engine mounted to the frame, and a clutch attached to the engine. The vehicle contains a system of features that can be removed without the use of tools. The system has a support attached to and extending outward from the frame, a removable footrest, a receiver attached to the removable footrest and configured to mate with the support, a locking mechanism attached to the receiver to secure the removable footrest with respect to the footrest support; and a removable clutch housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: BEAMCO
    Inventors: James Bergman, Larry Holter, Rick Nelson, Dave Paschke
  • Publication number: 20100148525
    Abstract: Vehicle fascia assembly includes a plastic fascia panel and a grille frame. The fascia panel has a grille opening defined by a flange extending rearward from the show surface toward the back side of the fascia panel. The flange has a plurality of flexure fingers at spaced intervals along the flange. The grille frame has a forward facing show surface and has a C-shaped channel molded around the outer edge of the show surface. Upon the assembly of the grille frame onto the backside of the fascia panel, the spaced apart channel legs fit onto the flange and the flexure fingers are biased and then engage with an abutment face on the grille frame, thereby attaching the grille frame onto the back side of the fascia panel without exposing the show surface of the fascia panel to injury by the grille frame during the assembly operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Steven A. Abdelnour, Steven D. Baer
  • Patent number: 7703819
    Abstract: A road vehicle 10A with a bonnet or engine compartment 14A and engine 32A is provided with pedestrian protection structure 42. This is formed by first assessing the structure of the vehicle 10A to determine the ability of the structure to provide at least partial absorption of a pre-defined impact to the vehicle (such as a simulated head or leg impact). The additional structure 42 is mounted on the vehicle 10A to provide partial absorption of the initial impact, at least sufficient for the vehicle structure to absorb any remaining energy of impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Concept Mouldings Ltd.
    Inventor: Ian Antony Finney
  • Patent number: 7690703
    Abstract: A bumper body extends in a vehicle-width direction and is formed with an air intake opening. A garnish extends in a vehicle-width direction, is attached to the air intake opening and has a first engaging portion. A bezel is adapted to cover a light of the vehicle, is attached to the bumper body and has a first engaged portion. The garnish and the bezel are arranged in the vehicle-width direction. The first engaged portion is engaged with the first engaging portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventor: Tadashi Maruko
  • Publication number: 20090302623
    Abstract: By combining an armature which may be formed from a metal or plastics material or cardboard material with a contact assembly generally in the form of foams or other energy absorbing materials it is possible to create a sufficiently robust structure for general installation on a motor vehicle. The armature will deform under impact loads in association with the contact assembly in order to provide an acceptable energy absorption profile under impact loads such as a result of collision contact between a pedestrian and the impact protection arrangement secured to a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Ian Antony Finney
  • Publication number: 20090273196
    Abstract: A front guard (10) is provided for a working vehicle. The front guard (10) is attached to a bracket (11) fixed at the front of a machine body frame and is placed in front of a bonnet (30). The front end of the front guard (10) is located rearward from the front end of front wheels (8) of the working vehicle. The front guard does not project forward of the machine body so that the guard does not spoil workability, whereby the guard is easy to be assembled and has high strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Ayabe, Nagahiro Ogata, Kouichi Takata
  • Publication number: 20090261601
    Abstract: A carrier for a front end module as a front structure of a vehicle, and a front end module system, comprises a sub frame formed to extend horizontally across an opening of a quadrangular main frame in which a radiator is to be arranged, and air guides are formed on the main frame and the sub frame to project forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hee Sun Shin
  • Publication number: 20090218833
    Abstract: An accessory bumper for use on a host vehicle, such as a security vehicle, for providing collision protection when the host vehicle performs PIT maneuvers. The accessory bumper includes protective elements on front side of the vehicle, for protecting both the accessory bumper and also minimizing damage to the host vehicle's engine and other critical components necessary for the operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: William E. Rosemeyer
  • Publication number: 20090212581
    Abstract: A grill guard apparatus for a vehicle with a bumper includes a grill guard pivotally attached at a bottom portion thereof to the bumper about a horizontal pivot axis located vertically between top and bottom edges of the bumper such that the grill guard can pivot about the pivot axis from an upright raised position in front of the vehicle grill to a lowered position extending horizontally forward from the bumper. Portions of the grill guard above the pivot axis bear against the bumper above the pivot axis when the grill guard is in the raised position, and portions of the grill guard below the pivot axis bear against the bumper below the pivot axis when the grill guard is in the lowered position and thereby support the grill guard in the lowered position. A lock mechanism is operative to maintain the grill guard in the raised position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: PRO METAL INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventor: Jeremy Jon Drever
  • Publication number: 20090195028
    Abstract: A support for an automotive radiator grille that is supported from the hood assembly of the vehicle is formed of two major components, a support bracket and a rubber stop retained on the support bracket for engagement with the radiator grille when the hood is moved into the lowered, closed position. The rubber stop is formed in a circular configuration with a central projecting bumper that deflects into a cup formed by the support bracket to maintain contact with the radiator grille and provide self-adjusting positioning to accommodate build tolerances and variations in the hood assembly and mounted radiator grille. The rubber stop can be formed of multi-durometer elastomers to provide a tuning to the specific application for the radiator grille support. The rubber stop places a pre-load on the hood latch and closure mechanism through the spring-like deflection of the rubber stop into the cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: David B. Glickman, Joseph A. Hickey
  • Publication number: 20090184526
    Abstract: A front section for a motor vehicle comprises a bumper (1) and a radiator module (2) arranged behind the bumper (1). The radiator module (2) is held by means of first (9) and separable second holding means (7, 8), wherein the first holding means (9) allow a movement of the radiator module (2) with one degree of freedom in a direction facing away from the bumper (1) when the second holding means (7, 8) are separated, and wherein the second holding means (7, 8) can be separated by a rearward yielding motion of the bumper (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: UNITED STATES DEPT. OF THE TREASURY
    Inventor: Claus Steller
  • Patent number: 7552898
    Abstract: A sensor support for a motor vehicle, the support comprising an assembly base carrier for receiving a sensor, wherein the assembly base is shaped so as to be secured to two portions of a bar in a grille, said portions being situated in alignment with each other but being spaced apart so as to leave room for a sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Jean-Yves Demange, Pierre Montanvert, Fabrice Ollier
  • Patent number: 7537253
    Abstract: A grille surround (2) for a vehicle (10) includes a shell (30) formed from sheet metal and a backing structure (40). An adhesive (50) is disposed between the shell (30) and the backing structure (40) to fixedly secure the shell (30) to the backing structure (40). The backing structure (40) is attached to the vehicle (10) thereby securing the shell (10) to the vehicle (10). The disclosed configuration allows the shell (10) to be secured to the vehicle (10) without using fasteners that would be visible from the outside of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: PACCAR Inc
    Inventors: David B. Rosen, Joseph F. Marrs
  • Patent number: 7537275
    Abstract: A cushion for an automotive grille mounted in an automotive body. The cushion includes an elongated shank having an exterior thread formed along its length. The shank is adapted to be threadably mounted in a hole in the automotive body so that a portion of the shank is sandwiched in between the grille and the automotive body. The effective thickness of the cushion is controlled by rotation of the shank relative to the automotive body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Umesh Naik
  • Publication number: 20090115205
    Abstract: The invention discussed above provides a reinforcing element for a lower impact region of a front bumper of a motor vehicle for the protection of pedestrians during the impact of a lower leg section against the lower impact region of the front bumper. The reinforcing element is thus connected behind, in direction of travel, the lower front bumper region to the latter. The reinforcing element has a base plate with reinforcing ribs attached thereto. It extends essentially in horizontal direction, approximately over the width of the front bumper. It is thus proposed for the first time that the reinforcing element is designed as a separate plate which can be integrated in the lower bumper region. The above invention also discusses a front bumper equipped therewith for a motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicants: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., DYNAMIT NOBEL KUNSTSTOFF GMBH
    Inventors: Claus Steller, Roland Kammerer
  • Patent number: 7513545
    Abstract: A moveable guard assembly is configured for installation upon an ATV having a horizontal carrier rack. The movable guard assembly comprises a blocking member and a first securement mechanism. The blocking member is configured for attachment to a front end of the all terrain vehicle in a position adjacent to the horizontal carrier rack. The blocking member is adjustable through movement between a first position in which the blocking member is operable to perform a guard function for protecting at least a portion of the front end of the all terrain vehicle, and a second position in which the blocking member is operable to provide additional support for cargo placed upon the horizontal carrier rack. The first securement mechanism is configured to selectively retain the blocking member in at least one of the first position and the second position. An ATV including the moveable guard assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Rowdy L. Joseph, Eric Stevens
  • Publication number: 20090079209
    Abstract: A multiple use vehicle accessory is provided that is configured for attachment to a vehicle. The accessory includes a first end on a frame. The first end defines a front side wall that has a pair of ears and a first cut-out section. A tire is configured for being disposed within the first cut-out section so that a center portion of the front side wall is configured for engaging a crown of the tire. The ears are located vertically above the center portion of the front side wall when the tire engages the center portion of the front side wall. A second end is located at an end of the frame opposite from the first end and is configured differently from the first end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel K. Hastings