With Distinct Wind Deflector Patents (Class 296/180.1)
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Patent number: 10926814Abstract: A motor vehicle active wing apparatus comprising a wing assembly, wherein the wing assembly comprises pitch adjustment means for adjusting a pitch angle of the wing assembly, the pitch adjustment means comprising a pitch adjustment actuator for adjusting the pitch angle, the apparatus being configured to allow adjustment of the pitch angle by means of the pitch actuator in real time whilst the vehicle is travelling.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2016Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Assignee: JAGUAR LAND ROVER LIMITEDInventors: Jag Virdie, Ian Bossons
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Patent number: 10919583Abstract: There is provided an active drag-reduction system having first 22 and second 24 fluid outlets located on a vehicle 10 adjacent to a low pressure (drag) region 12, wherein fluid ejected from the second fluid outlet 24 is at a higher pressure/ejection velocity than from the first fluid outlet 22. Turbulent and/or low pressure regions adjacent to vehicles are not uniform, but rather have a varying intensity. For instance, the centre of a region may have a lower pressure and/or more turbulent nature than the periphery of the region. The system may inject relatively higher pressure air (or relatively higher speed air) into the relatively lower pressure/more turbulent part of the low pressure/turbulent region, and relatively lower pressure air (or relatively lower speed air) into the relatively higher pressure/less turbulent part of the low pressure/turbulent region, compared to each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2019Date of Patent: February 16, 2021Assignee: Ogab Ltd.Inventors: Osama Elogab, Hatem Elogab
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Patent number: 10889170Abstract: A deflector device includes a deflector that is arranged at a front edge portion of a roof opening portion, an arm that supports the deflector, a holder that rotatably supports the arm, and a spring member that is interposed between the holder and the arm and thereby rotationally biases the arm in a direction in which the deflector is spread. To the holder, an engaging piece that has a claw portion engaging with an edge portion of a mounting hole formed at a fixing position (a support surface of a base member) at which the holder is fixed is disposed. To the engaging piece, a pressed portion against which the spring member pressing the holder is pressed and that thereby reinforces an engagement state of the claw portion with the edge portion of the mounting hole is disposed.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2019Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akinori Osamura, Ryuta Fukada, Aisei Kawazu
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Patent number: 10875587Abstract: An air fairing device is connected below the bottom a frameless trailer to improve aerodynamic efficiency and improve fuel economy. One embodiment of the air fairing device provides an air deflector positioned forward of a trolley which supports the frameless trailer at a rear end. A second embodiment of the air fairing device provides two deflectors mounted below the frameless trailer. The first deflector is attached and extends downward from an articulating arm, said arm connecting the trailer to a semi-tractor or truck. The second deflector connected to below the bottom of the frameless trailer and positioned rear of the first deflector and forward of the trolley. A third embodiment is similar to the second but further includes a third deflector positioned between two axles of the trolley.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2019Date of Patent: December 29, 2020Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Scott A. Kibler, Eric R. Sabo
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Patent number: 10864948Abstract: A drag reducing device for a vehicle includes an air flow turning component having a curved surface adapted to turn air flow passing over the curved surface, a first mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to a rear door of the vehicle, and a second mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to one of the opposite side walls of the vehicle. The mounting components are configured so that the air flow component is automatically in a deployed position when the rear door is closed, in which position the air flow turning component turns air flow passing along the side the vehicle inward to thereby reduce drag. The mounting components are further configured so that the air flow component is automatically stowed between the rear door and the vehicle side wall when the door is fully opened. The air turning component is an extrusion sized for a minimal prominence in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2019Date of Patent: December 15, 2020Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.Inventors: Ryan A. Reeder, John Vogel, James R. Tuerk
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Patent number: 10850779Abstract: An inwardly disposed trailer skirt panel assembly disposed laterally inset toward the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle. The trailer skirt panel assembly is suspended underneath a rearward body component of a truck or semitrailer, extending forwards in front of a rearward wheel assembly. The trailer skirt panel assembly stabilizes the generally static air passing under the central portion of the moving vehicle, further increasing the effective air pressure being developed immediately behind the vehicle to reduce drag thereon.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2019Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Inventor: Garth L. Magee
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Patent number: 10843748Abstract: A spoiler assembly for a vehicle includes a first air-guiding element adjustable between a basic position and an activated driving position by a first adjustment device (6) and a second air-guiding element adjustable between a basic position and an activated driving position by a second adjustment device (7). In a first partial adjustment during the adjustment from the basic positon into the driving position, the first air-guiding element is adjustable and the second air-guiding element is not adjustable. In a second partial adjustment following the first partial adjustment, the second air-guiding element, preferably the two air-guiding elements, is or are adjustable. second adjustment device (7) is activated via a first position-switching device (15) switchable between an open position for actuating the second adjustment device (7) and a blocking position depending on an adjustment position of the first air-guiding element.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2017Date of Patent: November 24, 2020Assignee: WABCO Europe BVBAInventors: Umut Gencaslan, Olaf Mentzendorff, Gandert Marcel Rita Van Raemdonck
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Patent number: 10829168Abstract: The aerodynamic skirt assembly for attachment to a trailer may comprise a side skirt fairing, a transition, and a vented skirt fairing. The transition may be located aft of the side skirt fairing and forward of the vented skirt fairing. The vented skirt fairing may be located aft of the transition. The vented skirt fairing may comprise at least one longitudinal vent configured to allow air to flow therethrough. The vented skirt fairing may extend outwardly of the side of the trailer frame to accommodate the wheels. One or more mounting brackets may be used to couple the elongated skirt panel, the transition, and the vented skirt fairing to one or more transverse structural support members. A rear exhaust fairing may be located aft of the vented skirt fairing and coupled to one or more transverse structural support members.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2018Date of Patent: November 10, 2020Assignee: Strehl, LLCInventor: Richard P. Senatro
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Patent number: 10807652Abstract: A method for producing a lower part of a rear spoiler of a motor vehicle includes providing at least one insert part and fibers, arranging the fibers and the at least one insert part in a mold, and incorporating a matrix into the mold. The method further includes molding the lower part of the rear spoiler in the mold, wherein the insert parts are laminated into the structure of the lower part, and milling the insert part after the molding of the lower part.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2018Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Riccardo Bauer, Tobias Posch
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Patent number: 10793055Abstract: A vehicle comprises a chassis and a cab mounted on the chassis and including two side walls. The vehicle further comprises two side deflector panels, each having a front edge linked to a rear portion of the corresponding side wall of the cab and a rear edge, and extending vertically over at least one portion of the height of the rear portion of the corresponding side wall of the cab. A camera monitoring system, which includes a camera arranged on a supporting arm, is mounted on the cab to provide a captured image of an area located rearward of the cab. A lighting device is mounted on a side deflector panel and includes at least one infrared (IR) emitting light source.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2020Date of Patent: October 6, 2020Assignee: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATIONInventors: Nicolas Berne, Olivier Hermann
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Patent number: 10793217Abstract: A saddle-type vehicle is equipped with a rearview mirror. The rearview mirror includes a stay extending from a vehicle body outward in a vehicle width direction, and a housing connected to an extending end portion of the stay and extending outward in the vehicle width direction, the housing including a mirror body. The housing further includes an upper wall and a lower wall which are arranged at positions overlapping each other in the vertical direction of the vehicle body. The upper wall has an upper outer surface portion whose length in a front-rear direction is shorter than the length of a lower outer surface portion of the lower wall in the front-rear direction, as viewed in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the vehicle width direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2018Date of Patent: October 6, 2020Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Mitsuhito Yokosuka
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Patent number: 10787208Abstract: A torsion beam type of rear suspension comprising a pair of right-and-left trailing arms and a torsion beam connecting the trailing arms is provided. A floor under cover for airflow straightening is attached to a portion of a vehicle body in front of the rear suspension so as to cover a vehicle-body lower face. A arm cover is attached to a lower portion of the trailing arm so as to cover a lower face of the trailing arm. The arm cover is provided with an arm-cover enlarged portion which is configured to protrude outwardly, in a vehicle width direction, from the trailing arm in a vehicle bottom-face view. The floor under cover is provided with a floor-under-cover enlarged portion such that a rear end portion of the floor under cover faces closely to a front edge of the arm-cover enlarged portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2019Date of Patent: September 29, 2020Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATIONInventors: Shuhei Nishida, Yoshiatsu Kuga, Masaru Chikita, Hiroyuki Takahashi
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Patent number: 10752299Abstract: A surface shape variable device which comprises a board-like member comprising a plurality of strip elements capable of being elastically morphed which extend in parallel along a plane; and morphing control devises which elastically morph the strip elements due to buckling and the like toward a direction traversing the plane by applying stress to at least a part of the strip elements, wherein the strip elements are woven into a woven fabric-like state and extend intersecting with each other.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2015Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION KANAZAWA UNIVERSITYInventors: Shinnosuke Shimokawa, Eiji Itakura, Hiroshi Tokutake, Atsumu Ohmae
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Patent number: 10752302Abstract: An aerodynamic vehicle attachment is disclosed that includes a body being triangular and having a base, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a face. The base has a base contour, and the base, the first sidewall, the second sidewall and the face define an interior storage compartment. A lid covers the interior storage compartment and has a lid contour and a lip extending upward external relative to the interior storage compartment. A hinge is coupled to the face of the body and the lid, and has a fastener. The fastener is configured to removably couple to an outer surface of a top of a tailgate of a vehicle so that the aerodynamic vehicle attachment is coupled to the outside of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2018Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Inventor: Gregory Jerome Prince
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Patent number: 10752301Abstract: The innovation includes a resilient or flexible skirt panel assembly having an integral bracing system. In operation, the bracing system need not attach to a trailer base rail. The innovation includes straight, straight-angled and curved skirt panel orientations. Additionally, angled braces, ‘v-braces,’ ‘v-wings,’ and integral rib bracing mechanisms are included. In aspects, the skirt panel and bracing mechanisms can absorb (or bend) under force while effectively having a ‘memory’ to return to their original shape upon removal of the force. The skirt assembly can include a hem along the bottom edge of the skirt panel thereby enhancing performance and longevity of the assembly. Additionally, an “anti-skid” clamping assembly can be employed to connect the skirt assemblies to the trailer I-beam, base rail or cross-members.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2019Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Assignee: Ridge CorporationInventors: Gary Alan Grandominico, Dominic Plauche Grandominico, Raymond Augustus McDonald, Jr., Bret Jameson Moss
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Patent number: 10745067Abstract: An active wing apparatus (100) configured to be attached to a boot lid of a motor vehicle, the apparatus (100) comprising a wing assembly (120) configured to reversibly deploy in a first direction from a stowed condition to a deployed condition, the apparatus (100) further comprising anchor means (113L,113R) configured releasably to couple the apparatus (100) to a structural member being a portion of the vehicle body (50B) other than the boot lid, when the apparatus transitions from the stowed to the deployed condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2016Date of Patent: August 18, 2020Assignee: Jaguar Land Rover LimitedInventors: Jag Virdie, Ian Bossons
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Patent number: 10730569Abstract: A vehicle or trailer assembly is disclosed comprising at least one fan positioned on an exterior of the vehicle or trailer, wherein the at least one fan redirects or accelerates air moving over, around, or through the exterior of the vehicle or trailer. Also disclosed is a fan assembly comprising a manifold configured to be positioned on an outside surface of a vehicle, along an axis transverse to a direction of travel of the vehicle. The fan assembly also includes a plurality of motorized fans rotatably mounted along the axis of the manifold, such that the motorized fans are configured to accelerate air passing along the outside surface or within an exterior of the vehicle, in the direction of travel of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2018Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: Inventure Holdings, LLCInventors: Timothy J. Brereton, Joseph A. Schetz
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Patent number: 10697512Abstract: A shield assembly is employed for a friction brake used to decelerate a road wheel of a vehicle. The vehicle has a body with a first body end configured to face an incident ambient airflow, a second body end opposite of the first body end, and an underbody section spanning a distance between the first and second ends. The shield assembly includes a first shield component arranged proximate the brake and rotationally fixed relative to the vehicle body. The shield assembly also includes a second shield component operatively connected to the first shield component for shifting relative thereto. The shield assembly additionally includes an actuator employing a shape memory alloy element to shift the second shield component relative to the first shield component in response to a temperature of the brake to thereby direct at least a portion of the airflow to the brake and control temperature thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2018Date of Patent: June 30, 2020Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Richard J. Skurkis, Paul W. Alexander, Anthony L. Smith, David Begleiter, Mark T. Riefe, Steven J. Weber
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Patent number: 10696336Abstract: An automotive vehicle includes a body having an exterior surface and an aerodynamic member movably coupled to the exterior surface. The aerodynamic member has a first position with respect to the exterior surface and a second position with respect to the exterior surface. The first position presents a distinct aerodynamic profile from the second position. The vehicle additionally includes an actuator coupled to the aerodynamic member and configured to actuate the aerodynamic member between the first position and the second position. The vehicle further includes a damper coupled to the aerodynamic member. The damper is provided with magnetorheological fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2017Date of Patent: June 30, 2020Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Jason D. Fahland, Joshua R. Auden
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Patent number: 10689043Abstract: There is provided a method of securing a strut portion to an I-beam of a vehicle, the securing mechanism comprising a pair of opposed clamps, each including a gripping portion, a securing portion, an abutting portion and a fastener adapted to apply tension on the clamps toward each other for moving the clamps toward each other and compress the strut portion to the I-beam.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2019Date of Patent: June 23, 2020Assignee: Transtex Inc.Inventors: Mathieu Boivin, Walid Deir, Georges Bassily, Swaroop Mulenahalli Kantharaju, Elizabeth Tome, Sylvain Daoust
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Patent number: 10679437Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for diagnosing a vehicle having an air dam for improving vehicle aerodynamics. In one example, during steady-state vehicle cruising, a baseline fuel economy for the vehicle is established with the air dam deployed. Then, the air dam is actively retracted and air dam hardware issues are identified based on a change in fuel economy following the commanded change in air dam position.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2018Date of Patent: June 9, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Aed Dudar
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Patent number: 10654531Abstract: An exemplary automotive vehicle includes a body having a wheelhouse, the wheelhouse including a wheelhouse edge defining a wheelhouse opening, and a wheel disposed in the wheelhouse opening, a suspension system including a suspension component adjacent to the wheelhouse, the suspension component configured to vertically deflect during vehicle operation, an aerodynamic system including an aerodynamic member disposed within the wheelhouse opening and coupled to the suspension component, the aerodynamic member having a first position with respect to the wheelhouse edge and the wheel and a second position with respect to the wheelhouse edge and the wheel, wherein the aerodynamic member moves from the first position to the second position with deflection of the suspension component such that a distance between the aerodynamic member and the wheel is greater when the aerodynamic member is in the second position than when the aerodynamic member is in the first position.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2018Date of Patent: May 19, 2020Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Steven A. Del Gaizo, William Fang, Joseph M. Polewarczyk, Jeffrey L. Konchan
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Patent number: 10632826Abstract: A vehicle rear structure includes a rear roof having: a pair of side wall portions located on an outer side in a vehicle width direction with respect to a pair of seats, and extending rearward of the seats; and a rear window for closing a window opening formed between the paired side wall portions. An upward standing deflection plate is provided between the paired seats and on a rear side of the seats. The deflection plate integrally includes a pair of outer air receiving portions away from each other in the vehicle width direction, and a middle air receiving portion connecting the outer air receiving portions in the vehicle width direction, and is made of a material having transparency. A length of the middle air receiving portion in an up-down direction is set shorter than a length of the outer air receiving portion in the up-down direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2016Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATIONInventors: Hirofumi Saka, Hiroki Ohira, Masanori Mochizuki
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Patent number: 10625794Abstract: An assembly of mating subassemblies having dimensional control features for a motor vehicle is provided. The assembly includes a composite molded first subassembly having a first set of molded-in dimensional control features. The assembly also includes an injection molded second subassembly having a second set of molded-in dimensional control features. The first and second sets of dimensional control features are integrally formed on their respective subassemblies to permit contact between the first and second sets of control features when the subassemblies are assembled together.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2018Date of Patent: April 21, 2020Assignee: Global IP Holdings, LLCInventors: Scott Allen Grajek, Jesse Brian Straight, Dustin Martin Fowler, Shane Caird Morse
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Patent number: 10618574Abstract: An assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The assembly includes a plastic molded part having an exterior surface and a low load region adapted to accommodate a low load. The low load region is formed using thin wall injection molding (TWIM) technology. The assembly also includes at least one load bearing spacer adapted to accommodate a high load that is greater than the low load. The spacer is configured to extend along a load path to accommodate and forward a load on a top portion of the part to a bottom portion of the part.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2018Date of Patent: April 14, 2020Assignee: Global IP Holdings, LLCInventors: Scott Allen Grajek, Jesse Brian Straight, Dustin Martin Fowler, Shane Caird Morse
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Patent number: 10604196Abstract: The invention relates to a rear spoiler for a motor vehicle, intended for being arranged in a region of a rear edge of the roof above a rear window, said spoiler including a first portion provided with an upper surface substantially aligned with an imaginary extension of an air-flow line of the roof. The spoiler is characterised in that it includes a second portion, mounted movable relative to the first portion, between a retracted position (upstream) and an extended position (downstream), in which the spoiler portion projecting above the rear window is increased, and a passive movement system capable of moving the second portion as a function of the air flow on the upper surface of the spoiler.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2016Date of Patent: March 31, 2020Assignee: Compagnie Plastic OmniumInventor: Frédéric Stablo
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Patent number: 10604198Abstract: Motor vehicle spoiler intended to be positioned in a region of a rear edge of a roof above a rear screen, the spoiler including an upper face substantially aligned with an imaginary continuation of a stream line of the roof, and at least one through-opening that opens above a region of the rear screen, the opening being equipped with at least one internal wall designed to channel a stream of air coming from the roof over the region through the opening, characterized in that the wall is mounted with the ability to move with respect to the spoiler so as to be able to open towards the rear screen to channel the air stream over the region and so as to be able to close off the opening in a closed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2016Date of Patent: March 31, 2020Assignee: Compagnie Plastic OmniumInventors: Arnaud Escoffier, Bertrand Hache, Philippe Coudron, Pascal Depardon, Pascal Barbier
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Patent number: 10597096Abstract: An air fairing device is connected below the bottom a frameless trailer to improve aerodynamic efficiency and improve fuel economy. One embodiment of the air fairing device provides an air deflector positioned forward of a trolley which supports the frameless trailer at a rear end. A second embodiment of the air fairing device provides two deflectors mounted below the frameless trailer. The first deflector is attached and extends downward from an articulating arm, said arm connecting the trailer to a semi-tractor or truck. The second deflector connected to below the bottom of the frameless trailer and positioned rear of the first deflector and forward of the trolley. A third embodiment is similar to the second but further includes a third deflector positioned between two axles of the trolley.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2017Date of Patent: March 24, 2020Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Scott A. Kibler, Eric R. Sabo
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Patent number: 10589802Abstract: This invention relates to an actuated aerodynamic air drag reducing apparatus for reducing the air drag of a vehicle, the actuated aerodynamic air drag reducing apparatus being adapted to move between an expanded configuration and a retracted configuration by an actuator on a basis of a signal associated to the behavior of the vehicle. The actuator being connected to a slider selectively connected to a pair of pivotable elongated members for being used between a plurality of configurations.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2018Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: Transtex Inc.Inventors: Mathieu Boivin, Sylvain Daoust, Alexandre Derny, Alfredo Javier
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Patent number: 10589803Abstract: An active bed cover system having at least one deployable panel and at least one actuator. The deployable panel extends and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract within the tailgate and/or cargo bed liner allowing for access to the bed and improved usability and aesthetics. The active bed cover provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2018Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: Magna Exteriors Inc.Inventors: Anthony J. Povinelli, Martin R. Matthews
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Patent number: 10589801Abstract: Drag reducing systems for vehicles are provided. In one aspect, a drag reducing system generally includes an airfoil rotatably couplable to the vehicle and configured to provide a lift force to the vehicle as a result of differential airflow velocity over the upper surface with respect to the lower surface. The drag reducing system may further include a flow alignment vane to rotationally align the airfoil to the direction of airflow. In another aspect, a drag reducing system generally includes an air vane hingedly couplable to a surface of a vehicle and configured to rotate from a first stowed position to second deployed position. The air vane includes a flared leading portion to provide a force to bias the air vane toward the first position and a flared lateral portion to provide a force to rotate the air vane to the second deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2018Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: PACCAR IncInventor: Jeffrey P. Smith
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Patent number: 10583873Abstract: A side skirt assembly for attachment to a trailer of a tractor-trailer, particularly to a trailer frame comprising transverse structural support members extending between sides of the trailer. The side skirt assembly comprises an elongated skirt panel, an elongated support and one or more skirt support members. The side skirt assemble comprises an inner surface and an outer surface. The elongated support is coupled to the elongated skirt panel on the inner surface thereof proximate an upper edge of the elongated skirt panel and extends at least a portion of the length of the elongated skirt panel. The more skirt support members couple the elongated skirt panel to a corresponding one or more or of the transverse structural support members.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2018Date of Patent: March 10, 2020Assignee: Strehl, LLCInventor: Richard P. Senatro
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Patent number: 10583875Abstract: An apparatus and method, according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, providing a spoiler body having a plurality of tunnels defining an open area between the spoiler body and a vehicle exterior surface. Each tunnel has an uppermost wall having an airfoil section. The spoiler body includes at least one vehicle attachment area that is positioned between at least two of the tunnels.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2017Date of Patent: March 10, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Michael Stephen Sylvester, Matthew Arthur Titus, Andrew Thomas Cunningham, Joseph Ovalles Quinones
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Patent number: 10576869Abstract: A cargo assembly arranged vertically on one of the side panels of a vehicle trunk may include a spool including a roll arranged between two caps, a net configured to be wound around a spool, and a rod arranged on an end of the net and including at least one cargo hook configured to engage with a vehicle hook arranged on a side of a trunk opposite the spool.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2017Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Diego Fabricio Villacres Mesias
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Patent number: 10577032Abstract: A dynamic gap at a vehicle interface can be actively managed using an interface seal. The interface can be defined between a first vehicle component and a second vehicle component. A gap can be defined between the first vehicle component and the second vehicle component. The gap can have an associated width. The width of the gap can vary during vehicle operation. An interface seal can be provided at least partially within the first vehicle component. The interface seal can be movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the stowed position, the interface seal can be located substantially entirely within the first vehicle component. In the deployed position, the interface seal can extend at least partially out of the first vehicle component in a direction toward the second vehicle component. As a result, the width of the gap can be reduced.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2017Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Scott L. Frederick, Scott P. Robison
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Patent number: 10577026Abstract: Drag reducing systems for vehicles are provided. In one aspect, a drag reducing system generally includes a flow restricting deflector couplable to a mount and positioned upstream in a path of airflow to an object. The flow restricting deflector generally includes a body portion and a plurality of flow choking orifices configured to provide a choked airflow condition. In another aspect, the drag reducing system is configured for positioning adjacent a wheel and tire combination of a vehicle upstream in a path of airflow to the wheel and tire combination. The flow restricting deflector may be coupled to and extending downward from a splash shield adjacent the wheel and tire combination.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2018Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: PACCAR INCInventor: Jeffrey P. Smith
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Patent number: 10556629Abstract: An inner wheel skirt panel centrally located under the body of a vehicle reduces overall vehicle drag by inhibiting air from otherwise being displaced laterally inward by the passing wheels of the moving vehicle. Maintaining air to remain generally static while passing under the vehicle through the central open-space between the wheels increases the effective air pressure developed immediately behind the vehicle to reduce overall drag developed between the front and rear of the vehicle. See FIGS. 27-30.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2017Date of Patent: February 11, 2020Inventor: Garth L. Magee
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Patent number: 10532780Abstract: A drag reducing device for a vehicle includes an air flow turning component having a curved surface adapted to turn air flow passing over the curved surface, a first mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to a rear door of the vehicle, and a second mounting component for connecting the air flow turning component to one of the opposite side walls of the vehicle. The mounting components are configured so that the air flow component is automatically in a deployed position when the rear door is closed, in which position the air flow turning component turns air flow passing along the side the vehicle inward to thereby reduce drag. The mounting components are further configured so that the air flow component is automatically stowed between the rear door and the vehicle side wall when the door is fully opened. The air turning component is an extrusion sized for a minimal prominence in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2017Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Assignee: Aero Industries, Inc.Inventors: Ryan A. Reeder, John Vogel, James R. Tuerk
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Patent number: 10464281Abstract: A composite sandwich structure for a vehicle includes a first sheet that has a first surface and an opposing second surface. The composite sandwich structure also includes a second sheet opposite the first sheet and a core coupled between the first and second sheets. The core is formed from a shape memory alloy and is configured to reversibly transform between (a) a substantially fully austenite state in response to the composite sandwich structure being within an expected operating temperature range and being subjected to a relatively low transverse force, and (b) an at least partially martensite state in response to the composite sandwich structure being within the expected operating temperature range and being subjected to a relatively high transverse force. Each of a plurality of first portions of the core correspondingly changes shape to accommodate the application of the relatively high force, such that the core reversibly deforms.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2014Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Stephen D. Oehler, Frederick T. Calkins
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Patent number: 10457339Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention comprise an active wing apparatus for a motor vehicle, the apparatus comprising a wing assembly configured to reversibly deploy in a first direction from a stowed condition to a deployed condition and reversibly expand telescopically along a second direction transverse to the first direction from a compact condition to an expanded condition, wherein the wing assembly is configured to expand telescopically when the wing apparatus deploys from the stowed condition to the deployed condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2016Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: Jaguar Land Rover LimitedInventors: Jag Virdie, Ian Bossons
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Patent number: 10457338Abstract: An aerodynamic drag reduction system includes a side panel configured to be coupled to a rear swing door to extend generally vertically at least partially along a height of a trailer and a top panel configured to be coupled to the rear swing door to extend generally horizontally at least partially along a width of the trailer. The drag system includes a cable system configured to connect the side and top panels to prevent upward movement of the top panel beyond its generally horizontal position. The cable system includes a first cable with a first end coupled to an inner surface of the side panel, and a second cable and a third cable each with a first end coupled to a bottom surface of the top panel. A second end of each of the first cable, the second cable, and the third cable is coupled together at a juncture.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2017Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.Inventors: Leonard W. Baker, Michael J. Courtney, James Andrew Sweet, Brian N. Haan
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Patent number: 10458821Abstract: A mounting structure for a peripheral information detection sensor includes an aeropart that is disposed above a cabin of a truck, the aeropart including a wall surface that faces toward a front direction, a wall surface that faces toward an upper direction, wall surfaces that face outward in a transverse direction, and a wall surface that faces toward a rear direction. The peripheral information detection sensor is mounted within a space enclosed by the wall surfaces, and a cover is provided on at least one wall surface that lies opposite the peripheral information detection sensor.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2017Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Masanobu Ohmi, Seiji Yamamoto, Yoshiaki Matsumura, Kosuke Sakakibara, Kazuki Sugie, Misato Kinoshita
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Patent number: 10457340Abstract: An adjustable body skirting assembly and a vehicle that includes the assembly. The assembly includes a support structure and a skirt member. The support structure includes a side surface and a bottom surface, and the skirt member is supported by the support structure. The skirt member is movable between a deployed position in which the skirt member is disposed transverse to the bottom surface of the support structure such that the skirt member and the side surface cooperate with each other to define a wall configured to redirect an airflow away from the bottom surface, and a retracted position in which the skirt member retracts relative to the side surface such that the wall is removed which allows the airflow to interact with the bottom surface. The assembly includes an actuator coupled to the skirt member and configured to move the skirt member to the deployed and retracted positions.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2017Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Caleb Potvin, Timothy D. Demetrio
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Patent number: 10442472Abstract: To provide a vehicle floor panel having a certain rigidity and being less prone to deformation during manufacturing and deformation when the vehicle floor panel installed in a vehicle is subjected to loads in various directions from outside the vehicle. A vehicle floor panel includes a floor panel main body made of a fiber-reinforced resin, a plurality of recesses 23-1 to 23-7 protruding on one of a lower surface 22 and upper surface of the floor panel main body and depressed on the other of the surfaces and arranged by being spaced apart from one another, and ribs 24-1 to 24-12 connecting two adjacent ones of the recesses on the one of the surfaces of the floor panel main body.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2016Date of Patent: October 15, 2019Assignees: Suzuki Motor Corporation, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Subaru Corporation, Dome Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shusuke Sanai, Tomomi Ichida, Kanji Takaoka, Yukitane Kimoto, Tomoya Yabu, Yoshinori Yamamori, Hideaki Maeda, Tsubasa Ono, Hiroshi Yuchi, Yasuhiro Kira, Kazuaki Amaoka
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Patent number: 10442477Abstract: A variable corner vane assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The variable corner vane assembly includes a cover coupled to a corner panel installed between a front panel and a door of the vehicle, a lift device for covering the cover and moving away from the cover in an outward direction of the vehicle as a function of lift generated by air flow when the vehicle moves, and a plurality of vanes extending from an inner surface of the lift device toward an inside of the vehicle and passing through the cover, the plurality of vanes controlling a flow of air drawn into a space between the lift device and the cover when the lift device moves away from the cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2017Date of Patent: October 15, 2019Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Myung-Kyu Lee
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Patent number: 10435085Abstract: A wind deflector module for a motor vehicle includes an aerodynamic component which is arranged so as to be movable on the outside of the motor vehicle, a drive unit configured to be movable in a Z direction of the motor vehicle and being mechanically connected to the aerodynamic component in order to move the aerodynamic component, and a mounting bracket mechanically connected to the drive unit in order to mount the drive unit. The mounting bracket is mounted on a support frame of the motor vehicle so as to be adjustable with respect to a Y and/or an X direction of the motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2017Date of Patent: October 8, 2019Assignee: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Tobias Posch, Sebastian Weber, Riccardo Bauer
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Patent number: 10414450Abstract: An air fairing device is connected below the bottom a frameless trailer to improve aerodynamic efficiency and improve fuel economy. One embodiment of the air fairing device provides an air deflector positioned forward of a trolley which supports the frameless trailer at a rear end. A second embodiment of the air fairing device provides two deflectors mounted below the frameless trailer. The first deflector is attached and extends downward from an articulating arm, said arm connecting the trailer to a semi-tractor or truck. The second deflector connected to below the bottom of the frameless trailer and positioned rear of the first deflector and forward of the trolley. A third embodiment is similar to the second but further includes a third deflector positioned between two axles of the trolley.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2017Date of Patent: September 17, 2019Assignee: MAC TRAILER MANUFACTURING, INC.Inventors: Scott A. Kibler, Eric R. Sabo
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Patent number: 10399615Abstract: An air drag reduction mechanism for a vehicle is provided. The mechanism includes a base and an air deflector rotatably coupled to the base. The air deflector is rotatable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. At least one actuator is operatively coupled to the air deflector and structured to rotate the air deflector between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration. At least one latching mechanism is operatively coupled to the air deflector and the base. The latching mechanism is structured to engage when the air deflector rotates from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration, to maintain the air deflector in the deployed configuration. The latching mechanism is also structured to disengage when the air deflector reconfigures from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration so as to permit rotation of the air deflector from the deployed configuration to the stowed configuration.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: September 3, 2019Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Paxton S. Williams, Scott L. Frederick
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Patent number: 10399611Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a deployable aerodynamic structure for a cargo body of a vehicle. The aerodynamic structure can include one or more panels that can be mounted to a cargo body of a vehicle and can move between a retracted position and a deployed position using various automated actuation systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2016Date of Patent: September 3, 2019Assignee: STEMCO PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Michael W. Polidori, Jeffrey J. Grossmann, Austin A. Duncanson, James Matthew Barron, Kyle A. Sager
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Patent number: 10384595Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a high-mounted brake light which is arranged on a rear part of the motor vehicle, and an energy source for making available energy for the motor vehicle. A charging plate is connected to the energy source, and the charging plate is arranged in a rear portion of the motor vehicle. The rear part is a wing of a spoiler, and a receiver coil is arranged in the rear part. The receiver coil can be coupled in a wireless fashion to the charging plate for contactless transfer of energy between the brake light and the energy source.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2017Date of Patent: August 20, 2019Assignee: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Sebastian Weber, Tobias Posch