Enclosed Compartment Patents (Class 296/24.3)
  • Patent number: 11891017
    Abstract: An under hood storage system of a vehicle includes an under hood storage compartment located in an under hood area of a vehicle, and a hood assembly that, when in a closed position closes the under hood storage compartment. The hood assembly includes an under hood panel having a first portion formed from a first material, and a second portion surrounding the first portion defining an outer perimeter of the under hood panel. The second portion is formed from a second material softer than the first material. One or more attachment features secure the under hood panel to the hood assembly. The under hood panel interacts with the under hood storage compartment to close the under hood storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Kukla, Kyle C. Smith, Andre Hormiz
  • Patent number: 11760382
    Abstract: An information processing device for managing a vehicle including a toilet unit, a tank unit connected to the toilet unit for storing waste that flows from the toilet unit, and a traveling unit capable of moving the toilet unit and the tank unit. The information processing device performs control for disconnecting the traveling unit from the toilet unit and the tank unit when installing a toilet. The information processing device includes a control unit configured to acquire a storage amount of waste in the tank unit and to generate commands to the traveling unit to cause the traveling unit to replace the tank unit when the storage amount of waste becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Ohno, Daiki Kubo, Yosuke Nozaki, Tsukasa Nakanishi, Hironori Aoyama, Seiji Yogo, Tae Sugimura, Yasuhiro Kobatake, Shinya Kijima, Osamu Fukawatase, Koji Yasui, Toshiyuki Kobayashi, Hitomi Nakatani, Toshinari Ogawa, Kohta Tarao, Kuniaki Jinnai, Sayaka Ninoyu, Takeshi Yamada, Nobuki Hayashi, Masahiro Nagano, Ryo Sato, Akihiro Ito
  • Patent number: 11603093
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus for guarding at least one vehicle includes a controller. The controller is configured to acquire vehicle information including class information for a class to be held in the at least one vehicle and travel information for the at least one vehicle, determine hazard information attributable to holding of the class based on the acquired vehicle information, and determine security information for guarding the at least one vehicle based on the determined hazard information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Ryuichi Kamaga, Kouki Moriya, Yui Ogura, Shintaro Matsutani
  • Patent number: 11554704
    Abstract: A novel handrail that can be mounted on the side of a recreational vehicle proximate an access door that can be safely grasped by the user to assist in entering or exiting the interior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Inventor: John Tinghitella
  • Patent number: 11471724
    Abstract: A rooftop mount device for connecting to a roof of a portable gym and for attaching exercise equipment is described. The portable gym is a portable container, such as a shipping container, having a top surface, or roof, to which the rooftop mount is attachable. The rooftop mount device includes connection members. The rooftop mount can also include one or more horizontal stabilization members and equipment attachment elements. The connection members are attached to a roof of the container. Exercise equipment is attached to the parts of the rooftop mount device. The rooftop mount provides proper height and stability for the bars, racks, stands, cages, rigs and riggings, and other exercise equipment that are attached to the container's roof so that the equipment does not move during use by an exerciser. Systems and kits are also described, which include a rooftop mount device, various exercise equipment, and a portable container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: Sportslinq LLC
    Inventors: Keith Mark Dery, Donald D. Fink, Stephen Fink, Steve Yang
  • Patent number: 11103038
    Abstract: A toiletry and accessory holder is provided that is adapted to support a plurality of accessory items in a portable housing. The device supports a tissue paper dispenser, replacement tissue paper, lotion and sanitizer solution, hand towels, and straws from a single housing. The housing is well suited for use in a vehicle or in a hotel room, whereby several toiletry items are provided to the user upon need, in a single housing, and in a compact form. A tissue box is supported along one end of the housing, while a slot adjacent thereto provides access to an exposed tissue from the tissue box. Replacement tissues are stored opposite the tissue box, while a straw dispenser is disposed along the lower portion of the housing. Along the upper surface of the container are several recesses to support item such as sanitizer solution containers, hand towels, and drink containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Inventor: Marcus Gooden
  • Patent number: 11069166
    Abstract: A container is provided which is modified to operate for a secure business (e.g. a retail business for the sale of a restricted access product). The container has a first pair of opposing sides and a second pair of opposing sides with a first door leading into a security vestibule. A second door is provided from the security vestibule into a restricted access space (e.g. an interior retail space, in which a restricted access product is displayed and available for sale). A security checkpoint is provided in the security vestibule. The first door and the second door are offset from each other such that restricted access space is not visible to a visitor without passing the security checkpoint. A method of permitting access to a restricted access product for sale through a modified container is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: 2654184 Ontario Inc.
    Inventors: Yakov Neiman, Dmitri Melamed, Michael Girgis, Idan Mizrahi
  • Patent number: 11021082
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to vehicles capable of autonomous driving. These vehicles may include seats for accommodating different numbers of passengers. In some cases, the seats may be reconfigurable. For instance, a vehicle may include a first row of seating having a first, passenger use configuration. The first row may allow a passenger to sit in a seat of the first row of seating and access user input controls for the vehicle. The first row of seating may also have a second, folded configuration where the first row is in a folded configuration and no longer usable for passenger seating. The vehicle may also have a second row of seating. When the first row of seating is in the second, folded configuration, the second row of seating may still be usable for seating and may include additional legroom for the passenger as compared to when the first row of seating is in the first passenger use configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: Waymo LLC
    Inventors: YooJung Ahn, David Tse-Zhou Lu, Min Li Chan, Brian Douglas Cullinane, Adam Lee Frost, Philippe Robert Agostino Holland, Hassan Rashid Mir, Marcos Aniceto Villalón Caro, Isaac Lopes Nogueras
  • Patent number: 10314206
    Abstract: A velocity cooled (VC) mobile data center (MDC) includes a volumetric container having an air intake opening providing an air intake path for exterior air to ingress into the container at a high velocity to provide a flow of cooling air that cools the heat generating IT equipment operating within the VC MDC while the MDC is mobile. An air intake damper is positioned within the air intake opening and can be selectively positioned between a fully opened position to a fully closed position. The VC MDC includes an air handling unit (AHU) configurable to operate in a standby mode or an active mode, ranging from providing minimal airflow to providing maximum airflow. The level of operation of the IT equipment and the amount of cooling provided by the AHU is controlled, based, in part, on a velocity of the VC MDC and resulting amount of cooling air being ingested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Dell Products, L.P.
    Inventors: Austin M. Shelnutt, Edmond I. Bailey
  • Patent number: 10286850
    Abstract: A storage bin shell for a vehicle includes a main bin portion defining a storage bin having a latch opening and an integrated latch opening close-out member configured to provide a latch opening close-out. The integrated latch opening close-out member includes a hinged portion, which may be a living hinge. The hinged portion further includes a retainer for engaging a co-operating receiver defined in the main bin portion, whereby rotating or folding the hinged portion allows engaging the co-operating receiver by the retainer to define the latch opening close-out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Paul Thomas, Marie L. Hall
  • Patent number: 10259372
    Abstract: A mobile-type maintenance square-shaped bin including a bin body, a travelling mechanism provided under the bin body, a car head connected with one end of the bin body, an inlet and an outlet provided at the other end of the bin body, a sealed door provided on the inlet and the outlet, an allocation and transportation device mutually connected with a microcomputer signal provided at a front end of the bin body as well as provided over an internal portion of the bind body, an maintenance platform provided at a bottom of the internal portion of the bin body, a tool platform provided adjacently to the maintenance platform, an ash-removal mechanism provided at an upper portion of the maintenance platform, an air-conditioning device provided at an outer portion of the bin body, and a scanning mechanism provided at a front portion of the maintenance platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignees: STATE GRID HENAN ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATION MAINTENANCE COMPANY, STATE GRID HENAN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY, STATE GRID ZHENGZHOU ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY COMPANY, HENAN EPRI ELECTRIC POWER TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jiaxin Wu, Guoqing Jiang, Lu Li, Jinguang Zhang, Yingwen Li, Hui Shen, Dongsheng Xu, Xiaohui Wang, Xin Qu, Li Zhang, Haiyun Guo, Hui Lin, Tianye Niu, Qi Lan, Yongheng Ku, Lujiang Zhang, Xiaodan Wang, Runge Hu, Yong Lu, Furong Liu, Weihua Lian, Yucai Zhao
  • Patent number: 10137818
    Abstract: A conveyer mechanism for a vehicle cargo area load floor includes a power seat assembly and a folding conveyer assembly carried by the power seat assembly and comprising a conveyer gearbox. A power seat motor is adapted to engage the conveyer gearbox when the power seat assembly is translated to a folded configuration. The power seat motor drives a conveyer drive gear when the power seat assembly is translated to the folded configuration, and drives a seat sector gear when the power seat assembly is translated to a deployed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Kyle Ness, Pattrick Loew
  • Patent number: 9679317
    Abstract: A self contained, mobile assay facility built in a modified armored truck is completely equipped to smelt and assay precious metals, particularly gold and silver. An induction furnace melts the metal that is then poured into an ingot. The ingot is weighed and analyzed using an XRF alloy analyzer and the percentage of gold and/or other metals recorded. The value of the gold at current market prices is calculated and the assay and the value of the ingot is printed and given to the seller. The seller may opt to receive the ingot and pay the assayer an assay fee. Alternately, the seller may ask to be paid cash or by wire transfer that may be initiated and confirmed from within the mobile assay facility. The ingots may be safely stored or shipped directly from the mobile facility to a wholesaler for further processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: AOW HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Chris Noyes
  • Patent number: 9670647
    Abstract: A hydraulic excavator includes a hydraulic fluid tank cover that covers the side face of the body frame. A latching member is provided to the upper part on the rear face side of the hydraulic fluid tank cover in a state of being attached to the body frame. An insertion plate is provided to the lower part on the rear face side of the hydraulic fluid tank cover in a state of being attached to the body frame, and is disposed substantially along the vertical direction. A latched member is provided to the body frame and is latched by the latching member. A receiver is provided to the body frame, and the insertion plate is inserted therein. A fixing component is located more to the inside of the body than the upper end part of the exterior cover in top view in an attached state, and fixes the latching member to the latched member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventor: Kenji Sanada
  • Patent number: 9517710
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a floor, an internal structure delimiting side panels of a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle, and a seat including a back part and a sitting part. The sitting part of the seat is detachable so that the sitting part can be entirely separated from the floor and from the internal structure of the vehicle to free access to a first recess in the internal structure of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Miguel Correia, Guillaume Brotonne, David Lancelot
  • Patent number: 9190044
    Abstract: A structure of a soundproof cover for an engine room is mounted on a body frame at a rear side of the engine room in which an engine is mounted. The structure may include two or more piece members that are detachably coupled to each other and collectively form the soundproof cover in a panel shape. The soundproof cover is to be mounted on the body frame so that one side surface of the soundproof cover is directed toward the engine and the other side surface of the soundproof cover is directed toward an interior of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, NVH KOREA, INC.
    Inventors: Sang-Ill Lee, Jee-Young Youn, Sang-Ik Lee
  • Patent number: 9132764
    Abstract: A mobile structure includes first and second rigid frames and first and second horizontal roof supports supported by the rigid frame. Each of the rigid frames includes a first vertical support, a second vertical support substantially parallel to the first vertical support, and a lateral rigid frame support extending perpendicularly at least from the first vertical support to the second vertical support. The mobile structure further includes a floor under the first and second horizontal roof supports, a wheel-axle assembly under the floor, and leveling assemblies that are extendable away from the floor. Each leveling assembly is in weight-bearing and in-line relationship with respect to one of the vertical supports of the first rigid frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Inventor: Micah F. Andretich
  • Patent number: 9023279
    Abstract: A self-contained assay facility housed in a fixed-wing or rotary wing aircraft that is completely equipped to melt and assay precious metals, particularly gold and silver. An induction furnace melts the metal that is then poured into an ingot. The ingot is weighed and analyzed using an XRF alloy analyzer and the percentage of gold and/or other metals recorded. The value of the gold at current market prices is calculated and the assay and the value of the ingot is printed and given to the seller. The seller may opt to receive the ingot and pay the assayer an assay fee. Alternately, the seller may ask to be paid in cash, in bullion, by wire transfer, or by an open hedge. A transfer or hedge is initiated and confirmed from the assay facility. The ingots are securely stored in a safe within the assay facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: AOW Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Chris M. Noyes
  • Patent number: 9005525
    Abstract: A transportable, self-contained assay facility built in a modified standard shipping container that is completely equipped to melt and assay precious metals, particularly gold and silver. An induction furnace melts the metal that is then poured into an ingot. The ingot is weighed and analyzed using an XRF alloy analyzer and the percentage of gold and/or other metals recorded. The value of the gold at current market prices is calculated and the assay and the value of the ingot is printed and given to the seller. The seller may opt to receive the ingot and pay the assayer an assay fee. Alternately, the seller may ask to be paid in cash, by bullion, wire transfer, or by an open hedge. A transfer or hedge is initiated and confirmed from the assay facility. The ingots may be securely stored in a safe within the assay facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: AOW Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Chris M. Noyes, Walter Nadonza
  • Patent number: 8998284
    Abstract: A fully enclosed and self-propelled ice fishing house is operable from within the enclosure to control a tracked drive, a vertically movable floor, and vertical movement of an exterior auger. The movable floor may be raised for transport and lowered to the surface of the ice during fishing. The exterior auger is preferably in front of the vehicle, and a line parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle extends from the auger to a fishing opening portal in the movable floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventors: Russell P. Minahan, Raymond P. Minahan
  • Publication number: 20150068005
    Abstract: A system for manufacturing homes is provided. An embodiment includes a sub-assembly plant for assembling planar sections of a home according to production schedule for custom homes. The embodiment also includes at least one final assembly facility located proximal to a subdivision where a plurality of the custom homes are to be situated. The final assembly facility is for receiving the planar sections from the sub-assembly plant and for constructing the homes from planar portions according to the production schedule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Peter Gilgan, Jurgen Dirks, William Meevis, Walter Mitchell, Peter Vohsemer
  • Publication number: 20150028617
    Abstract: A data center system can include a mobile support structure; one or more enclosures for removable electronic equipment where the enclosures are housed by the support structure; a cooling system in fluid communication with the enclosures for cooling of the electronic equipment where the cooling system is housed by the support structure; and a power system operably connected to the electronic equipment and the cooling system for supplying power thereto where the power system comprises a generator housed by the support system. The mobile data center can be moved to remote locations, and the electronic equipment can be placed in communication with a network when at the remote location. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: George Slessman
  • Publication number: 20140353999
    Abstract: A container for particulate materials that is adapted to be mounted on a trailer for transport on a roadway includes a plurality of hoppers, a shell that is disposed over the plurality of hoppers, and an internal U-shaped divider plate between each pair of adjacent hoppers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Bryan Yielding
  • Patent number: 8888158
    Abstract: A data center system can include a mobile support structure; one or more enclosures for removable electronic equipment where the enclosures are housed by the support structure; a cooling system in fluid communication with the enclosures for cooling of the electronic equipment where the cooling system is housed by the support structure; and a power system operably connected to the electronic equipment and the cooling system for supplying power thereto where the power system comprises a generator housed by the support system. The mobile data center can be moved to remote locations, and the electronic equipment can be placed in communication with a network when at the remote location. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: IO Data Centers, LLC
    Inventor: George Slessman
  • Publication number: 20140232130
    Abstract: A controller assembly includes a base plate, a bracket, and a first controller main body. The base plate includes a through hole and a frame having an upper surface and a lower surface and surrounding the through hole. The bracket has first and second flange portions supported on the upper surface of the frame at positions opposite to each other over the through hole, first and second side portions coupled respectively to the first and second flange portions and passing through the though hole; and a bottom portion coupled to both of the first and second side portions on the side of the lower surface of the frame. The first controller main body is mounted on a bottom portion of the bracket. Accordingly, a controller assembly which can be readily assembled, a cab of a work implement, and a work machine can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Tanaka, Daisuke Tsukamoto, Hirokazu Sugimoto, Tomoyuki Imada, Yoshiaki Honma
  • Publication number: 20140151980
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an example towable power generation system. The towable power generation system includes a guide that facilitates mounting the enclosure onto a base. In some embodiments, the guide is attached to the enclosure. When enclosure is mounted on the towable power generation system, the guide on the enclosure engages another portion of the towable power generation system as the enclosure is assembled onto (or removed from) the rest of towable power generation system. The guide facilitates alignment and mounting of the enclosure relative to the towable power generation system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Joshua Ziebert, Dawn Vertz
  • Patent number: 8733812
    Abstract: Described are methods, systems, and apparatus relating to a modular data center. In some embodiments, a modular data center includes one or more data modules. The modular data center includes a network module connected to the one or more data modules, the network module containing equipment for facilitating data communications by the one or more data modules. The modular data center includes a power module connected to the one or more data modules and the network module, the power module containing electronics equipment for conditioning and distributing power to the one or more data modules and the network module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: IO Data Centers, LLC
    Inventor: George Slessman
  • Publication number: 20140117694
    Abstract: A mobile structure includes first and second rigid frames and first and second horizontal roof supports supported by the rigid frame. Each of the rigid frames includes a first vertical support, a second vertical support substantially parallel to the first vertical support, and a lateral rigid frame support extending perpendicularly at least from the first vertical support to the second vertical support. The mobile structure further includes a floor under the first and second horizontal roof supports, a wheel-axle assembly under the floor, and leveling assemblies that are extendable away from the floor. Each leveling assembly is in weight-bearing and in-line relationship with respect to one of the vertical supports of the first rigid frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Micah F. Andretich
  • Publication number: 20140103678
    Abstract: A data center system can include a mobile support structure; one or more enclosures for removable electronic equipment where the enclosures are housed by the support structure; a cooling system in fluid communication with the enclosures for cooling of the electronic equipment where the cooling system is housed by the support structure; and a power system operably connected to the electronic equipment and the cooling system for supplying power thereto where the power system comprises a generator housed by the support system. The mobile data center can be moved to remote locations, and the electronic equipment can be placed in communication with a network when at the remote location. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: IO Data Centers, LLC
  • Patent number: 8684437
    Abstract: A portable mobile recycling center having a drop deck semi-trailer with an enclosed storefront section for office and storage with a bulk recycling section comprising an articulated boom mounted thereto providing means for handling and weighing recyclables and a roll-off recyclables receptacle at the rear of the trailer providing for bulk storage of recyclables. The mobile unit provides recycling opportunities for residential areas that have no means of recycling their large and small unwanted materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Jeff L. Collins
  • Patent number: 8662558
    Abstract: A vehicular storage system for providing secure storage of tools, sporting goods, and other equipment while maintaining quick removal characteristics. The system includes at least one storage assembly and a mounting assembly. Each one of the storage assemblies includes a bottom wall, a perimeter wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, and a lid portion for selectively closing at least a portion of a compartment formed by the bottom wall and the perimeter wall. The mounting assembly is designed to be coupleable to a vehicle, such as a pick-up truck, sport utility vehicle, all terrain vehicle, boat, or other suitable vehicle. The mounting assembly facilitates removably mounting the storage assembly to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventors: Ryan A Kolb, Denis Knobloch
  • Patent number: 8662506
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multi-function cart for storing and transporting emergency or other supplies. The multi-function cart comprises two shells that can be secured together to form a transportable storage container. When separated, each shell is convertible into various configurations that can be used to sustain life during and after a disaster as well as to clean-up and rebuild after a disaster has occurred. The multi-function cart can also be used recreationally. In this manner, the multi-function cart enables victims to quickly care for themselves, and encourages victims to immediately begin the clean-up and rebuilding process. Each shell is convertible into different configurations using various tubes. Hub brackets on opposing sides of the shell include adapters to which any of the tubes can be connected. The tubes can be connected to the adapters in an upward or a downward orientation to form different configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Troy Bengtzen
  • Publication number: 20140054916
    Abstract: A composite commercial walk-in van body is constructed via lightweight, composite structures. A composite floor structure having integral logistic tracks are joined to composite sidewalls that include integral rub rails that also integrally formed logistic tracks on an interior thereof. Pigment molded lower body panels that extend beyond the sidewalls are fully replaceable to enhance durability and maintenance of the walk-in van body. A one-piece molded roof eliminates leaks. Any necessary rivets are captured so as to prevent any wet-to-dry surface penetration. An easily accessible washer fluid and brake fluid reservoir aid in the maintenance and operability of the walk-in van body. Such elements contribute to substantial weight reduction, and increase in durability, functionality, and fuel economy of walk-in vans utilizing such a composite body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Spartan Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Knudtson, Timothy F. Marling, Eugene A. Dylewski, II
  • Patent number: 8651545
    Abstract: A lifting system can be used to move an item between a use position and a stowed position in a structure such as a vehicle or home. The item may be an article of furniture, an appliance, a storage unit, a platform, workbench, or the like. The lifting system may be motorized and/or utilize a flexible drive to move the item. The lifting system may be used to reciprocally move the item between the use position and the stowed position in the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.
    Inventor: C. Martin Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 8622454
    Abstract: A mobile structure includes first and second rigid frames and first and second horizontal roof supports supported by the rigid frame. Each of the rigid frames includes a first vertical support, a second vertical support substantially parallel to the first vertical support, and a lateral rigid frame support extending perpendicularly at least from the first vertical support to the second vertical support. The mobile structure further includes a floor under the first and second horizontal roof supports, a wheel-axle assembly under the floor, and leveling assemblies that are extendable away from the floor. Each leveling assembly is in weight-bearing and in-line relationship with respect to one of the vertical supports of the first rigid frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Micah F. Andretich
  • Patent number: 8586381
    Abstract: A mobile intra-operative microscopic diagnosis laboratory capable of analyzing fresh tissue specimens and providing intra-operative consultation within 20 minutes is described. The mobile laboratory is preferably a van and contains a cryostat for freezing the fresh tissue specimens and a means for cutting the specimens. In addition, it also contains the means for reading the slides to make microscopic diagnosis and a means for handling for fresh tissue and a means for indicating various locations in the specimen, preferably by inking them. It preferably contains a stainer for staining the samples and an intercom for communicating the microscopic diagnosis back to the operating room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: V. Raman Sukumar
  • Patent number: 8573345
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a chassis, an engine compartment and an engine. The engine compartment is carried by the chassis and defined by a plurality of upstanding walls, one of which includes an openable access panel. The engine is carried by the chassis and includes a plurality of service points positioned inside and adjacent to the access panel for servicing the engine by a person positioned outside the access panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Gregory K. Werner, Daniel J. Schuller, John M. Chesterman, Denis J. Montocchio, Karl G. Heine
  • Patent number: 8551402
    Abstract: A self-contained, mobile assay facility built in a modified armored truck is completely equipped to melt and assay precious metals, particularly gold and silver. An induction furnace melts the metal that is then poured into an ingot. The ingot is weighed and analyzed using an XRF alloy analyzer and the percentage of gold and/or other metals recorded. The value of the gold at current market prices is calculated and the assay and the value of the ingot is printed and given to the seller. The seller may opt to receive the ingot and pay the assayer an assay fee. Alternately, the seller may ask to be paid cash, by bullion, wire transfer, or by an open hedge. Either a transfer or hedge is initiated and confirmed from the assay facility. The ingots may be safely stored or shipped directly from the mobile facility to a wholesaler for further processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Chris M. Noyes
  • Publication number: 20130221696
    Abstract: An equipped living compartment for transport vehicles, the equipped compartment being provided with a multipurpose kitchen unit defined by a cabinet having a top closing lid and provided with a cooking surface, which is mounted underneath the lid and can be turned up or down, at least in part, between a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position, and with a basin or sink set in a fixed position underneath the cooking surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Silvia Quattrocolo, Angelo Storgato
  • Publication number: 20130175819
    Abstract: A mobile power supply housed within a wheeled trailer which can be towed to various locations, particularly remote locations, for providing electrical power as needed for operating equipment or for charging of batteries or other electrical supply devices at such remote locations. The apparatus includes a unique trailer design including venting means for preventing the accumulation of hydrogen normally associated with high power battery operation, particularly charging thereof and therewith, by monitoring hydrogen at all times within the trailer interior and selectively passively and actively venting the interior environment when hydrogen levels are high or whenever necessary. A unique roof design is included for gathering hydrogen near the upper portion of the interior roof construction adjacent to a venting outlet to facilitate expelling thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: HindlePower, Inc.
    Inventor: HindlePower, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8434804
    Abstract: A data center system can include a mobile support structure; one or more enclosures for removable electronic equipment where the enclosures are housed by the support structure; a cooling system in fluid communication with the enclosures for cooling of the electronic equipment where the cooling system is housed by the support structure; and a power system operably connected to the electronic equipment and the cooling system for supplying power thereto where the power system comprises a generator housed by the support system. The mobile data center can be moved to remote locations, and the electronic equipment can be placed in communication with a network when at the remote location Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: I O Data Centers, LLC
    Inventor: George Slessman
  • Patent number: 8414046
    Abstract: A reinforced vehicle structure includes a vehicle wall, a reinforcement member, an accessory attachment member and a plurality of mounting structures. The vehicle wall includes an outer wall surface facing an outboard direction of the vehicle and an inner wall surface facing an inboard direction of the vehicle. The reinforcement member is mounted to the outer wall surface. The accessory attachment member is mounted to the inner wall surface. In addition, the plurality of mounting structures is spaced along the reinforcement member and extends through the vehicle wall to couple the accessory attachment member to the reinforcement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Pencak, Matthew Mollick, Robert Blanchard, Dan Hustyi
  • Patent number: 8414047
    Abstract: A reconfigurable console reinforcement bracket includes a first frame and first and second extension arms. In a first configuration, the first extension arm is connected to a first lateral side of the first frame at a first longitudinal end of the first frame and the second extension arm is connected to a second lateral side of the first frame at the first longitudinal end of the first frame such that the first and second extension arms extend beyond the first longitudinal end. In a second configuration, the first extension arm is connected to the first lateral side of the first frame at the second longitudinal end of the first frame and the second extension arm is connected to the second lateral side of the first frame at the second longitudinal end of the first frame such that the first and second extension arms extend beyond the second longitudinal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Melaina Vasko, Christopher Biggs, Thomas Mally, Douglas Dawe
  • Patent number: 8393518
    Abstract: A mobile manufacturing platform is provided. The mobile manufacturing platform has a base, a cutting platform, and a welding platform. Additionally the mobile manufacturing platform has a rail system capable of moving the stock material in X, Y, Z coordinates around the platform. Stock material can be manufactured into a final desired piece at a building site by being cut on the cutting platform and then welded on the welding platform. A finishing station for painting and other finishing may also be added. The mobile manufacturing platform can be moved from building site to building site or wherever on-site manufacturing is preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas P. Corcoran
  • Publication number: 20130049390
    Abstract: A vehicle accessory assembly includes a housing and a vehicle accessory subassembly, including a vehicle accessory and a bezel, installed in the housing. The housing includes a side panel having at least one tab extending from a top of the side panel. The vehicle accessory includes a side wall and a guide rib extending from the side wall in a direction away from a center of the accessory. The guide rib includes a guide portion. A guide angle between the guide portion and the side wall is less than about 90°. The bezel includes a snap portion. As the vehicle accessory subassembly is installed on the housing, the tab of the side panel engages the guide portion of the guide rib such that the guide portion of the guide rib guides the tab over an outboard side of the snap portion into engagement with the receiving slot of the bezel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan-Michael Francis Stachura, Toshinao Wada
  • Publication number: 20120221192
    Abstract: An inspection device is provided to monitor hygienic conditions of a space unit for a vehicle. The vehicle includes, but is not limited to, an inspection device, the use of an inspection device, and a method to assure hygienic conditions in a vehicle. In order to optimize assuring hygienic conditions in interior spaces on board a vehicle an inspection device is provided that includes, but is not limited to, an optical detection device. The optical detection device generates electromagnetic radiation to irradiate a surface to be cleaned, and renders visible soiling that, in visible light, is invisible to the human eye. The optical detection device is permanently installable on an interior lining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Christian SEIBT
  • Patent number: 8235441
    Abstract: A transportable thick matter pump includes a carrying framework for machine assemblies. A covering hood reaches at least partly over and is fixed in place on the carrying framework and includes a frame skeleton having a rectangular roof frame and two rectangular side frames connected with the roof frame at their upper edge and releasably attached to the carrying framework with their lower edge. A basin-shaped roof cover is inserted into the roof frame, with its opening facing upward, while the side frames carry at least one side paneling element configured as a self-supporting plastic molded hinged door articulated on at the upper edge of the related side frame. The frame skeleton openings formed by the roof frame and the two side frames, on the face-side hood ends, are covered by a removable end cap configured as a self-supporting plastic molded part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Pirwass
  • Patent number: 8221684
    Abstract: A mobile intra-operative microscopic diagnosis laboratory capable of analyzing fresh tissue specimens and providing intra-operative consultation within 20 minutes is described. The mobile laboratory is preferably a van and contains a cryostat for freezing the fresh tissue specimens and a means for cutting the specimens. In addition, it also contains the means for reading the slides to make microscopic diagnosis and a means for handling for fresh tissue and a means for indicating various locations in the specimen, preferably by inking them. It preferably contains a stainer for staining the samples and an intercom for communicating the microscopic diagnosis back to the operating room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: V. Raman Sukumar
  • Patent number: 8186734
    Abstract: A door opening and closing device has a rotational mechanism configured to switch a door between a closed position and an open position relative to a base member. The door opening and closing device includes a latch mechanism for latching the door in the closed position on the base member. The latch mechanism includes a latch device attached to the base member, a case disposed above the latch device, a slider slidably situated in the case above the latch device, and a latching member pivotally supported by the case and including a base end slidably connected with the slider and a tip configured to engage a portion of the door. When the door is moved to the closed position, the slider is moved by the door and is engaged with the latch device while the latching member is pivoted to engage the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nakaya
  • Publication number: 20120126561
    Abstract: A reinforced vehicle structure includes a first vehicle wall, a second vehicle wall, an accessory attachment member and a reinforcement member. The first vehicle wall has a first outer wall surface facing an outboard direction and a first inner wall surface facing an inboard direction. The second vehicle wall extends transverse to the first vehicle wall, and has a second outer wall surface facing a first direction and a second inner wall surface facing an opposite direction. The accessory attachment member is mounted to the first inner wall surface. The reinforcement member has a first end mounted to the accessory attachment member and a second end mounted to the second inner wall surface with the reinforcement member spanning the first and second vehicle walls such that the reinforcement member does not extend parallel to either of the first and second vehicle walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey PENCAK, Matthew MOLLICK, Robert BLANCHARD, Dan HUSTYI