At Or On Roof Or Rooflike Panel Patents (Class 296/37.7)
  • Patent number: 11801905
    Abstract: The technology relates to enhancing the operation of autonomous vehicles. Extendible sensors are deployed based on detected or predicted conditions around a vehicle while operating in a self-driving mode. When not needed, the sensors are fully retracted into the vehicle to reduce drag and increase fuel economy. When the onboard system determines that there is a need for a deployable sensor, such as to enhance the field of view of the perception system, the sensor is extended in a predetermined manner. The deployment may depend on one or more operating conditions and/or particular driving scenarios. These and other sensors of the vehicle may be protected with a rugged housing, for instance to protect against damage from the elements. And in other situations, deployable foils may extend from the vehicle's chassis to increase drag and enhance braking. This may be helpful for large trucks in steep descent situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: Waymo LLC
    Inventors: Vijaysai Patnaik, William Grossman
  • Patent number: 11535165
    Abstract: A sliding type glove box including a housing mounted to an instrument panel and a storage part provided in an inner space of the housing so as to be slidably withdrawn therefrom includes: a pair of outer rails arranged under the storage part and fixedly mounted to the housing; inner rails having lengths shorter than lengths of the outer rails and provided at the outer rails to move therealong, each of the inner rails being connected to a first-side bottom surface of the storage part in a longitudinal direction thereof; and a support part supporting a bottom surface of the storage part by being in contact with the bottom surface of the storage part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignees: KBI DONGKOOK IND. CO., LTD., HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong Il Son, Dong Yong Choi, O Sim Kwon, Tae Yong Eom, Sun Kyung Kim, Chang Bok Park, Ie Seob Park
  • Patent number: 11465748
    Abstract: A galley monument for an aircraft has a shelf structure, a pull-out member supported on the shelf structure so as to be able to be moved between an insertion position and a deployment position and has a carrier plate, and a display device supported on the pull-out member and having a display. A first surface of the carrier plate in the deployment position of the pull-out member is located in a deployment plane and protrudes with respect to the shelf structure and is located in the insertion position at least partially inside the shelf structure. The display device in the deployment position of the pull-out member can be pivoted about a centre of rotation between a storage position, in which the display device extends parallel with the deployment plane, and a position for use, in which the display device extends transversely relative to the deployment plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Inventors: Michael Bauer, Falk Bajorat
  • Patent number: 11267404
    Abstract: A storage device for a vehicle cab, said storage device comprising: a vertically moveable storage unit onto or into which items are intended to be stored, a support structure configured to support the storage unit and to allow vertical movement of the storage unit between a first/upper position and a second/lower position when the storage device is mounted to a wall or similar, wherein the support structure comprises a first spring member arranged to dampen downwards movement and assist upwards movement of the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Volvo Truck Corporation
    Inventors: Harshad Sawant, Aditya Hande
  • Patent number: 11235707
    Abstract: A storage compartment for the vehicle is disclosed herein. The storage compartment includes a receptacle. A door is coupled to the receptacle and is operable between an open position and a closed position. A sensors coupled to the door and is configured to sense a user input. An actuator is configured to allow the door to move from the closed position to the open position in response to the sensor, sensing the user input, wherein the actuator is electrically coupled to the sensor when the door is in the closed position and is electrically disconnected from the sensor, when the door is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Satyanarayana Raju Vemulapati, Steven J. Antilla, Matthew Anthony Majkowski, Brent Clifford Dalton
  • Patent number: 11186228
    Abstract: A storage device for a vehicle cab, the storage device comprising: a vertically moveable storage unit onto or into which items are intended to be stored; and a support structure configured to support the storage unit and to allow vertical movement of the storage unit between a first/upper position and a second/lower position when the storage device is mounted to a wall or similar, wherein the support structure comprises a spring member arranged to dampen downwards movement and assist upwards movement of the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Volvo Truck Corporation
    Inventor: Harshad Sawant
  • Patent number: 11014503
    Abstract: A vehicle comprising a stowage bin, an actuation assembly configured to actuate in response to an actuation signal, and a stowage bin closure operable between stored and fully deployed positions, wherein the actuation assembly is configured to deploy the stowage bin closure over an opening defined by the stowage bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Chris O'Connor, Michael J. Andrus, Amanda Villerot, Sue Muscat, Jim Carene
  • Patent number: 11001188
    Abstract: An awning system includes a housing connectable to a rear of a vehicle and an awning canopy extendable from and retractable into the housing. In an embodiment, a plurality of marker lights is integrated with the housing and oriented to project light in a rearward direction when the housing is attached to the rear of the vehicle. In another embodiment, a rear-facing camera is integrated with the housing and oriented to have a field of view covering an area rearward of the vehicle and below the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: LIPPERT COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott C. McKinnon, Josh Black, Michael Fiwek, Byron Brown, Brian Worthman
  • Patent number: 10909785
    Abstract: A base control module for vehicles comprises, a controller which includes a housing, a programmable processor, on-board memory, and a plurality of inputs and outputs. The module also comprises, a set of pluggable module interfaces each comprising a standardized connector for any of a plurality of interchangeable pluggable modules, with each pluggable module having a different functionality, and each connector having a plurality of pins. A standardized communication protocol is provided between the base control module and any of the pluggable modules. Adaptable software on the base control module that can assign different configurations for the pins of the connector dependent upon the functionality of the pluggable module for those pins. The same base control module and set of pluggable module interfaces can be used for different pluggable modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: TriMark Corporation
    Inventors: David S. Magner, Anita L. Reichling, Nicholas L. Kloxin, Todd Keaffaber, Santosh Balakrishnan, Robert D. Lawson
  • Patent number: 10836324
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a window and a body having a storage space with an opening facing toward the window. A flexible electronic display is movable from a first position overlying the window and a second position within the storage space. The window may be a windshield, and the storage space may be within a roof of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America, Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America
    Inventor: Jin Woo Jung
  • Patent number: 10684471
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a display panel retained in a housing and configured to display image data on a display surface in a display direction. The apparatus further comprises a focal distance correction feature disposed in front of the display surface in the display direction. The focal distance correction feature is configured to project the image data at a projected distance behind the display surface relative to the display direction such that the image data appears to originate from behind the display surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Andrew D. Weller, John A. VanderPloeg
  • Patent number: 10668862
    Abstract: A console for a vehicle interior is disclosed. The console may comprise a base and a storage bin moveable between closed, released, open and intermediate positions. The bin may move from the intermediate position to both the open and closed positions. The bin may move from the intermediate to the closed position without first moving from the intermediate to the open position. The console may comprise a mechanism comprising a pin and a track comprising paths of movement for the pin to guide bin movement from the intermediate to the open and closed positions. The base may comprise a projection and the bin may comprise first and second protrusions or wall segments separated by a gap. The projection may travel through the gap as the bin moves from the intermediate to the open position. The console may comprise an overhead console providing a mirror directed to a rear seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Shanghai Yanfeng Jinqiao Automotive Trim Systems Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Eric Charles Asselin, Tyler T. Grab, Rick Alan Anderson
  • Patent number: 10604965
    Abstract: An apparatus for clocking a shaft of a latch relative to a housing of the latch is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a body, comprising a surface and a first opening, formed through the surface. The first opening has a first symmetry axis, and the first symmetry axis is perpendicular to the surface of the body. The apparatus also comprises a first funnel, comprising an inlet and a second symmetry axis. The second symmetry axis of the first funnel is parallel to the first symmetry axis of the first opening. Further, the second symmetry axis of the first funnel is spaced a fixed distance away from the first symmetry axis of the first opening. The fixed distance is greater than zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Brandon Bartneck, Nicholas George Jellyman
  • Patent number: 10580236
    Abstract: A key for locking and unlocking a car is disclosed, which is configured to send a first signal which, when the car is locked and the first signal is received, causes the car to unlock, and to send a second signal which, when the car is unlocked and neither the first signal nor the second signal is received, causes the car lock, and the key sends the first signal only upon a signal from a user to unlock the car. The car recognizes a first wireless transmission which, when the car is locked and the first signal is received, causes the car to unlock, and recognizes a second wireless transmission such that, when the car is unlocked and neither the first nor the second signal is received, causes the car to lock, and the first signal is received only upon a user giving a signal to unlock the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Inventor: Ulysse McConnell
  • Patent number: 10474014
    Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a projector lift is provided to raise and lower a projector from the ceiling. The projector lift includes a first mount normally coupled to the ceiling, a second mount supporting the projector, a driver configured to raise and lower the second mount and projector, and a stabilizer extending between the first and second mounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Draper, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven E. Enochs
  • Patent number: 10328859
    Abstract: An assembly configured to be installed in a vehicle interior is disclosed. The assembly may comprise a base configured for attachment at the attachment point in the vehicle interior and a component coupled to the base configured for movement relative to the base from (a) a storage (or shipping) position wherein the attachment feature is accessible for attachment of the base to the vehicle interior to (b) an installed (or pivot) position wherein the component blocks the attachment feature. The component may comprise a set of members or tabs configured to move from a biased position to retain the component in the storage position to a deflected position to allow movement of the component from the storage position to the installed position. The member may comprise a recess and/or ribs configured to facilitate retention of the component in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Shanghai Yanfeng Jinqiao Automotive Trim Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Randy Len Arendsen
  • Patent number: 10300863
    Abstract: A vehicle overhead console is provided herein. The vehicle overhead console includes a housing having a locator and a retainer tower extending vertically above the housing. The retainer tower has a rib. A bracket is configured to couple to a vehicle headliner and defines a channel. The channel includes a central channel and a plurality of transverse slots and the tower is disposed within the central channel and the rib is disposed within the transverse channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Satyanarayana Raju Vemulapati, Wei Xu, Justin Aymen, Tyler Kramer, Linh Doan
  • Patent number: 10259581
    Abstract: A monitor device including: a display section having a display surface; an operation section disposed at a bottom of the display section and having an operation surface substantially parallel to the display surface; a connecting section disposed at a lateral side of the operation section and having a connecting surface tilted downward relative to the display surface; and a surface switching section that connects the operation surface and the connecting surface to each other, and a normal of the display surface and a normal of the connecting surface form an acute angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masashi Fujimoto, Kaname Tomita, Mitsuhiro Tosa
  • Patent number: 10106258
    Abstract: An overhead luggage compartment for airplanes, comprising a stationary luggage compartment element which can be secured to a structural element and comprising a movable luggage compartment element which can be loaded with a piece of luggage, said compartments being connected together by a joint such that the movable luggage compartment element can be pivoted between an open position and a closed position. The overhead luggage compartment may comprise a device for holding the movable luggage compartment element in the open position, said device having a force transmission element which is connected to the joint between the stationary luggage compartment element and the movable luggage compartment element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: FACC AG
    Inventors: Bernhard Kammerer, Jakob Schoerkhuber
  • Patent number: 10029794
    Abstract: An aircraft storage bin that includes an upper housing, and a bucket pivotally connected to the upper housing that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior. The bucket includes a bottom, a front edge and first and second opposing side walls extending upwardly from the bottom and pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closed position. When the storage bin is installed in an aircraft, a first horizontal distance is defined between a first vertical line that extends through the pivot axis and the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the closed position, and a second horizontal distance is defined between the first vertical line and the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the open position. The first horizontal distance is greater than the second horizontal distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: C&D ZODIAC, INC.
    Inventor: Scott Savian
  • Patent number: 9080588
    Abstract: Quick fastening clip, such as those used in the motor vehicle industry, having formed therein, extending from a vault-like surface, legs which by means of a fold are folded in the form of an internal extension, forming, when both of them on each side are joined together, the contact point for a retaining sill; having flanges inclined so as to be directed approximately towards the centre of said bottom surface; flexible wings are provided, being formed by means of a fold which creates a surface, and, by means of another fold which extends into a descending vertical zone, a through-opening with approximately vertical access is created by means of a band which protrudes transversely from said descending surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Victor Diez Herrera, Isaac Tejero Salinero
  • Patent number: 9073494
    Abstract: An overhead console assembly for a vehicle comprising a sunglass bin is disclosed. The sunglass bin defines an outer perimeter configured to be disposed in an overhead console. The overhead console assembly also includes a mirror assembly configured within the outer perimeter of the sunglass bin. The mirror assembly includes an axial engagement assembly that connects the mirror assembly to the sunglass bin. The axial engagement assembly comprises a damper operable to maintain a position of a conversation mirror about a positioning axis relative to the sunglass bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Clark, Scott Simon, Michael Chan, Jeffrey Singer, Anthony Ligi
  • Publication number: 20150001872
    Abstract: A door system, kit, and canopy for a vehicle. The door system includes a door 1 formed by a door frame and a skin extending over the door frame. A connection element is couplable to the door 1 to removably attach door 1 to a frame of the vehicle. Door 1 is dimensioned so that, when removed from the vehicle frame, door 1 is stowable one of under and within a canopy of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Mark A. RUTLAND
  • Patent number: 8770644
    Abstract: A vehicle having a roof lining which is bounded at the front by a front windscreen and has an overhead console which is extended toward the front by a front windscreen unit in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the covering element of the windscreen unit being attached to a front windscreen-end support at at least a first attachment point and to the overhead console at at least a second attachment point. The covering element being mounted so as to float with play in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and/or in the lateral direction of the vehicle at the first attachment point, and is mounted without play at the second attachment point for accurate alignment with the overhead console.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventors: Richard Harders, Horst-Reiner Karg
  • Publication number: 20140132022
    Abstract: A roof box is provided for motor vehicles for forming a useful interior space. In order to obtain a roof box which is comfortable to handle by a user, offers the greatest possible storage space and simultaneously reduces vehicle noises and fuel consumption, the roof box includes the use of volume changing means for changing the volume of the interior space, the roof box being designed such that it can be integrated into the roof of a motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: SEs Solutions GmbH
    Inventor: Serle ESPIG
  • Patent number: 8646825
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an overhead console for a motor vehicle that can firmly hold, store and allow viewing of a portable electronic device. The overhead console can include a sunglass storage bin that is pivotally attached to an overhead console storage structure, the sunglass storage bin having a closed position and an open position. The console can also include a storage unit insert that is attached to and located at least partially within the sunglass storage bin. The storage unit insert can be dimensioned to hold a portable electronic device within the sunglass storage bin and allow the device to be stored out of view when the sunglass storage bin is in the closed position and allow viewing of the electronic device when the sunglass storage bin is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Minelli, Eric Day, Lynelle Harrison
  • Patent number: 8528859
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention indicates an installation system for an airplane for securing interior equipment, which exhibits longitudinal and transverse rails. The transverse rails are designed as peripheral rails, and exhibit perforations to which the interior equipment can be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Claus-Peter Gross, Oliver Sascha Thomaschewski
  • Patent number: 8444198
    Abstract: A storage bin attached to the upper wall of a vehicle trunk. The storage bin is movable between a stowed position in which the bin is moved upward and is locked against the upper wall of the trunk and a deployed position in which the bin is moved downward and is open for storage of one or more items. When moving between a stowed position and a deployed position, the bin might pivot or sides of the bin might collapse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Junko Pauken
  • Patent number: 8371539
    Abstract: A shaft 14 is provided on the opposite side of the side provided with a locking mechanism 7 in a remote control; a remote control holder 3 has provided thereon a bearing section 15 abutting on the shaft 14 when the remote control 1 is housed in the remote control holder 3; the remote control holder 3 further has supportingly provided thereon a holding lever 18 gripping the shaft 14 in cooperation with the bearing section 15; the holding lever 18 has provided thereon a coil spring 21 energizing the holding lever 18 toward the shaft 14; and further the remote control 1 has provided thereon a lever engaging section 23 that rotates the holding lever 18 against the resilient force of the coil spring when the remote control 1 is rotated to take out the remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Hideyuki Hirota, Takahiro Ikunami
  • Patent number: 8346478
    Abstract: A system and method for populating a map database for a vehicle navigation system with the location and type of wireless access points that can be used to update or service wireless systems on the vehicle. The map database can be initially populated with the known wireless access points at the time of manufacture of the vehicle, and then the vehicle communications system can detect new wireless access points as the vehicle travels, which can be stored on the map database. By storing the location and type of the access points in the map database, the vehicle will know the direction of the access point relative to the vehicle, and can compensate for the Doppler shift as a result of the relative movement of the vehicle to the access point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Robert P. Roesser
  • Patent number: 8240751
    Abstract: In a vehicle roof system for closing and opening a roof opening (2a) formed in a fixed roof panel (2) of a vehicle with a moveable roof panel (4), an onboard device (30) is located in a laterally central part of the fixed roof panel (2) adjacent to a front edge of the roof opening, and an electric motor (24) for actuating the moveable roof panel is also located adjacent to the front edge of the roof opening but in a laterally offset and longitudinally overlapping relationship with the onboard device. As the electric motor and onboard device do not overlap each other in plan view, the thickness of the roof can be minimized. As the electric motor and onboard device overlap each other in side view, the distance between the upper edge of the front windshield and the front edge of the roof opening can be minimized, and this improves the field of view of the vehicle occupants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hajime Katayama, Ayumi Mihashi
  • Patent number: 8210588
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle grab handle (10) having a handle (12) and at least one bearing support (14) for attaching the vehicle grab handle (10) to a vehicle body, a bearing section (18) of the handle (12) being pivotally mounted to the bearing support (14), two shaft stubs (22, 24) being provided on the bearing support (14) which define a pivot axis (S) for the handle (12) and which can be shifted along the pivot axis (S) from an initial position to a connection position, and the shaft stubs (22, 24) coupling the handle (12) and the bearing support (14) to one another in the connection position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: TRW Automotive Electronics & Components GmbH
    Inventors: Jan Boehner, Hubert Loewe
  • Patent number: 8157314
    Abstract: Provided is an overhead console for a vehicle including a housing installed in the front of an indoor ceiling of the vehicle, having an opening opened downward, and including a rotary shaft installed in the opening, a mirror case rotatably coupled to the rotary shaft of the housing and having an insertion part formed therein, a conversation mirror attached to the mirror case and including a mirror that enters and exits in a direction of a driver, and a spectacles-case inserted into the insertion part of the mirror case and rotatably coupled to the rotary shaft of the housing, to which the mirror case is coupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Company
    Inventor: Sung-jin Gwon
  • Patent number: 8157313
    Abstract: An overhead storage unit including a single unit that spans across substantially the entire lateral width of the vehicle adjacent the top of the front windshield. In some preferred embodiments, the overhead storage unit includes a removable electronic device (such as, e.g., a CB radio support). In some preferred embodiments, the storage unit also includes a novel removable switch plate and a unique CB microphone mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Volvo Group North America, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin Nutt, Sandro Ramos
  • Patent number: 8146227
    Abstract: A mobile platform is provided. The mobile platform includes a interior overhead structure and at least one compartment rotatably coupled to the interior overhead structure. The compartment is rotatable into an opened position and a closed position. The mobile platform further includes a pivot system coupled to the interior overhead structure and the compartment to enable the compartment to rotate into the opened position and the closed position. The pivot system comprises a first fitting that defines a raceway and a second fitting that defines a hub and a guide. The hub of the second fitting is for engagement with the raceway and the guide directs the first fitting into the second fitting to couple the first fitting to the second fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Chad D. Schmitz, Michael S. Haynes, Nelson J. Jeyarajah, Michael J. Malkinson, Christopher S. Pugh
  • Patent number: 8123270
    Abstract: A motor vehicle roof is provided that included, but is not limited to a base roof and a roof segment essentially vertically adjustable relative to the base roof. The roof segment is designed, essentially, to fit closely with the base roof in a closed state and to provide a space in relation to base roof in an open state. The roof segment can include, but is not limited to at least one upper, relatively adjustable, roof element connected with the roof segment, and/or the base roof can include, but is not limited to at least one lower, relatively adjustable roof element connected with the base roof. Through the adjustable roof element the storage space can be open and closed. As a result, the transportation of objects is improved without significantly compromising safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Gian Luca Baccelli
  • Patent number: 8056783
    Abstract: An exterior member mounting unit is used for installing an exterior member to a device, such as a vehicle roof. The mounting unit includes a first part detachably supporting the exterior member so that an upper surface thereof is covered by the exterior member, a second part detachably held by the first part, and a screw for attaching the exterior member to the device while utilizing the second part detachably supported by the first part as a seating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignees: Nifco Inc., Mazda Motor Corporation, Katayama Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoichi Hirano, Mamoru Morita, Takeo Matsui, Nobuyuki Takahashi, Haruo Miyake, Kenichi Hirata
  • Publication number: 20110260488
    Abstract: A modular storage system for a vehicle is disclosed. The modular storage system includes an adjustable frame having a plurality of first posts, a plurality of second posts, a first beam connecting one of the plurality of first posts to another of the plurality of first posts, and a second beam connecting one of the plurality of second posts to another of the plurality of second posts. The first posts and second posts are each secured to a curved member. The modular storage system is attached to a rail on an interior of a vehicle. Various off-the-shelf storage components can be used with the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: Knaack LLC
    Inventors: Richard Chase Bliss, JR., Ajay Dhananjay Utpat, Harishchandra Dahatonde
  • Publication number: 20110204668
    Abstract: A storage bin pivotably attached to the upper wall of a vehicle trunk. The storage bin is movable between a stowed position in which the bin is pivotably moved upward and is locked against the upper wall of the trunk and a deployed position in which the bin is pivotably moved downward and is open for storage of one or more items. When in its stowed position the storage bin is locked against downward movement by a latch. As an alternative arrangement, the storage bin may comprise a top wall, a bottom wall and a pair of opposed flexible walls which allow the bottom wall to be moved upward to its stowed position and fastened to the top wall when not in use. In addition to the trunk area of the vehicle, the storage bin of the disclosed invention may be fitted to any upper surface of a storage area of the vehicle including, for example, the roof of the rear area of a sport utility vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Junko Pauken
  • Patent number: 7887008
    Abstract: A stowage compartment system for use in an interior area. A support structure is supported from a structural subassembly. At least one compartment is rotatably supported from the support structure. An electrically powered actuator is used to rotate the compartment between open and closed positions. A sensor senses an amperage being drawn by the actuator while the actuator is rotating the compartment. A controller is responsive to the sensor and controls the actuator to interrupt rotational movement of the compartment upon detecting an obstruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Bret L. Lamoree, Dennis C. Lin, Heidi J. Kneller
  • Patent number: 7887115
    Abstract: An overhead console for a vehicle includes a substrate formed of a substantially clear material configured to provide a conduit for light. The substrate has a first surface and an opposite second surface. The overhead console also includes a first film layer coupled to the first surface of the substrate. The first film layer has a first portion simulating a first component of the overhead console and a second portion simulating a second component of the overhead console. The overhead console further includes a second film layer coupled to the second surface of the substrate. The second film layer is configured to cooperate with the first film layer to affect the appearance of at least one of the first component and second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventor: Arne Dassen
  • Patent number: 7845699
    Abstract: A motor vehicle roof is provided that includes, but is not limited to a base roof and a roof segment. The roof segment is adjustable relative to the base roof. In a closed state, the roof segment fits tightly with the base roof. When opened, the roof segment is arranged to provide a space between itself and the base roof. A spoiler is provided that is connected to and adjustable relative to the base roof and kinematically connected to the roof segment in such a way that, with movement of the spoiler, the roof segment can be opened and closed. Additional storage space for the placement of baggage is formed when the roof is in an opened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Leopold
  • Patent number: 7823830
    Abstract: A luggage compartment for aircraft comprises a tilting floor, a flap and a suspension device. The tilting floor is designed for holding carry-on baggage and the like, and may be locked in an initial position and may be tilted to another position for easier loading or unloading. The loading edge height may be substantially lower than the initial height of the closed luggage compartment. For example, an interlocking mechanism may couple the opening and closing of a flap and the tilting of the floor from an initial position to the tilted position, such as a three-position handle that prevents release of the tilting floor until the flap is unlatched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus SAS
    Inventors: Erich Feldkirchner, Thomas M. Bock
  • Patent number: 7819453
    Abstract: A cargo lid assembly for a vehicle is provided and includes a cargo lid, at least one lid-engaging member and at least one hinge member that is integral with a respective one of the at least one lid-engaging member and is configured for hinged connection to a body structure of a vehicle. The cargo lid includes an inner member and an outer member that cooperate to define a cavity. The assembly further includes at least one stiffener positioned within the cavity between the inner and outer members of the cargo lid. At least one lid-engaging member is secured to at least one stiffener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: David Michael Edwards
  • Patent number: 7802842
    Abstract: The invention relates to a roof module of a motor vehicle, which can be fastened to the chassis of the motor vehicle and defines a roof area. The aim of the invention is to improve the utility of the roof module or the motor vehicle. For this purpose, the roof module (9) is a planar full roof that is non-transparent or at least partially transparent, or the roof module (9) is a panoramic roof that projects towards the top and/or is at least partially transparent and/or comprises a roof box fixed to the top thereof, or comprises a bearing device (18) for detachably fixing a roof box (19) to the top of the roof module (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Webasto AG
    Inventors: Oliver Vogt, Bernhard Schleicher, Thomas Rudolph, Michael Koelbl, Anton Jöhl, Alain Leroy, Rupert Kogler, Nigel Westwood, Mirko Konta
  • Patent number: 7735893
    Abstract: An overhead storage compartment (10, 100, 200) is disclosed in which the storage compartment (10, 100, 200) is moveable into a collapsed state so as to lie substantially adjacent to a roof panel (2) of a motor vehicle (5) and not intrude significantly into an interior space of the motor vehicle (5) and is further deployable from the collapsed state into an in-use or deployed state in which it defines a cavity that can be used to transport articles in the vehicle (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Brown, Will Farrelly, Jonathan Young, Daniel Edward Stanesby
  • Publication number: 20100127525
    Abstract: An overhead console for a vehicle is provided. The overhead console includes a substrate formed of a substantially clear material configured to provide a conduit for light. The substrate has a first surface and an opposite second surface. The overhead console also includes a first film layer coupled to the first surface of the substrate. The first film layer has a first portion simulating a first component of the overhead console and a second portion simulating a second component of the overhead console. The overhead console further includes a second film layer coupled to the second surface of the substrate. The second film layer is configured to cooperate with the first film layer to affect the appearance of at least one of the first component and the second component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Arne Dassen
  • Publication number: 20100109364
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a roof rack to a sunroof for a vehicle may include an outer sunroof frame covering at a first end thereof a sunroof actuating unit and being coupled at a second end thereof to a side outer panel, and/or a mounting member formed at the second end of the outer sunroof frame and coupled to the roof rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Jae Han PARK
  • Patent number: 7699372
    Abstract: A cargo carrier integrated a vehicle roof such that the cargo carrier is deployable from a stowed position within the vehicle roof to a deployed position that extends from the vehicle roof. The cargo carrier includes a bottom panel disposed within a recess formed in the vehicle roof, and a pair of side panels disposed within and hingedly connected to the bottom panel. The side panels are actuatable between the stowed position and the developed position. A front panel and a top panel are hingedly connected to each other and attached to the bottom panel. To deploy the cargo carrier, a deployment system is connected to the side panels for actuating the side panels between the stowed position and the deployed position. Actuation of the side panels raises the top panel and the front panel to the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventors: John R. Adams, E. Mackey King, Paul G. Lester, Alan Townsend
  • Patent number: 7661741
    Abstract: An in-vehicle storage unit includes a base member adapted to be fixed to a vehicle body and having an opening portion, a case which is openable and closable with respect to the opening portion, a pivot via which the case is rotatably supported by the base member, a gear disposed on a side wall of the case, the gear being an arc-shape having a center at the pivot, and a damper disposed on the base member. The damper is engaged with the gear to provide a damping force to the case when the case rotates from a closed position, at which the case is closed with respect to the opening portion, to an open position, at which the case is opened with respect to the opening portion. When the case is at the open position, the gear is disposed within an inner space of the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shirena Takai