Accessible From Within Passenger Compartment Patents (Class 296/37.8)
  • Patent number: 7980618
    Abstract: A center seat provided rightward in a left seat is detached from a center seat retention base when a seatback is caused to fold so that the thickness direction of the seatback coincides with the thickness direction of a seating cushion. Then, the folded center seat is caused to move on a floor forward in the vehicle, and is housed into a center seat-housing portion in a console box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideyuki Kato, Hideyuki Murasato
  • Publication number: 20110169291
    Abstract: A closure for a storage compartment of a motor vehicle including an electromagnet having an armature wherein the armature can by moved by excitation of the electromagnet, and wherein a movement of the armature can be transmitted to a locking element which, due to a restoring force of a spring, is in a locked position for the storage compartment when the electromagnet is not energized, a means for generating an electric current for exciting the electromagnet, and means for measuring the electric current flow used for exciting the electromagnet, wherein the means for generating the current are designed to control the electric current such that, after turning on the current after measuring when a maximum current is reached and subsequent dropping below said maximum current, the current is reduced to a predetermined minimum value, wherein the minimum value is such that the armature is held in its position against the spring force acting on the armature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: FAURECIA INNENRAUM SYSTEME GMBH
    Inventors: Bernhard Siethorst, Vincent Chevroton, Christophe Pignon
  • Publication number: 20110163580
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle seat back adapted for movement between an upright position and a lowered position has an air duct with an intake located adjacent an upper portion of the seat back and an outlet located adjacent a lower portion of the seat back. The air duct takes in ambient cabin air at its upper end and that air is directed to an electronics compartment located behind the seat in order to cool the electronics regardless of whether the seat back is in the raised or the lowered position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Marc Jonathon Lucas, Louis Paspal, Neil Robert Burrows
  • Publication number: 20110156432
    Abstract: The invention relates to a storage compartment (1) having a pivotable cover (5). The invention proposes that the cover (5) be mounted on a slider member (3) and driven with a constraining kinematic arrangement (15) so that, during opening, the cover (5) is in the first instance displaced with the slider member (3) in parallel and is then pivoted upwards, the cover (5) being displaced further with the slider member (3) during pivoting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas Danz, Peter Muehllehner, Frank Werner, Dennis Puskar, Michael Summersett
  • Publication number: 20110140475
    Abstract: Embodiments of a vehicle console comprise a base structure defining a cavity and having an opening permitting access to the cavity, a lid having a surface area sufficient to cover at least a portion of the opening when the lid is in a closed position at the base structure, a hinge member connected between the base structure and the lid and configured to allow rotational movement of the lid between the closed position and an open position, a slide coupled to the lid and configured to allow translational movement of at least a portion of the lid between a retracted position and an extended position spaced apart from the retracted position and a slide mounting member including a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, the first mounting portion coupled to the hinge member and the second mounting portion coupled to the slide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Spitler, Nobutaka Takeuchi, Marius Cociuba
  • Patent number: 7959202
    Abstract: A vehicle tray having an open-prevention mechanism may include a rotating member integrally connected to a tray cover and rotatably coupled to the tray to support the tray cover, and an inertia detecting member pivotally coupled to the tray, a portion of the inertia detecting member being selectively engaged with a stopper portion of the rotating member according to an impact to prevent rotation of the rotating member when the impact greater than a predetermined level is applied to the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Gye Young Ahn
  • Publication number: 20110133506
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tray assembly. The tray assembly may include a tray having a guide slot, a hinge arm including a cam-shaped portion and rotably coupled to the tray, a cover fixed to an end portion of the hinge arm, a drawer box storable in the tray and having a guide pin at a side portion thereof, the guide pin passing through the guide slot of the tray and being movable along the guide slot by selectively engaging with the cam-shaped portion of the hinge arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Jung Hoon WOO
  • Patent number: 7954871
    Abstract: A trim component for a vehicle includes a flexible component, and at least a portion of the flexible component is translucent or transparent, allowing light to pass therethrough. The flexible component could also include an opaque portion. The trim component may be a tambour door of a center console or other storage area, a gear shift closeout, or a steering column closeout. The flexible component includes a plurality of slats and a substrate coupling the slats. The center console includes a light source directing light through the translucent portion of the tambour door. The slats are formed from polypropylene or polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and the substrate is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane or a thermoplastic elastomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventor: Jason M. Hipshier
  • Publication number: 20110127793
    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: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: GM DAEWOO AUTO & TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventor: Sung-jin Gwon
  • Publication number: 20110127799
    Abstract: A storage panel assembly for a vehicle includes a panel having a louvered exterior and internal surfaces. A vent structure is formed on a portion of the panel. At least one jack wrench clip assembly is formed on the portion of the panel including the vent structure. The exterior louvered surface of the panel remains unblemished.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Frank Parkinson, Robert Charles Steinbrecher
  • Patent number: 7950712
    Abstract: A deck board includes a board body arranged in a luggage area of a vehicle so as to be capable of being moved between an upper position and a lower position. The board body in the upper position separates the luggage area into upper and lower areas. The deck board further includes a front support portion that is rotatably connected to the front end portion of the board body via a hinge portion so as to guide the board body being moved between the upper and lower positions. The end portion of the front support portion on the opposite side of the hinge portion is pivotally supported by the sidewalls of the luggage area via a support pin. Further included is a spring unit arranged to bias the board body and the front support portion to be drawn to each other across the hinge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuya Karaki, Mikihiro Kito
  • Publication number: 20110121596
    Abstract: A motor vehicle storage device includes, but is not limited to at least one multifunction box, in particular for storing items during a journey with the motor vehicle. The multifunction box includes, but is not limited to a base body having at least one receiving compartment configured as a cooling compartment. An engagement device is provided for engagement in guide grooves of a rail system and are formed laterally on the base body in order to arrange and/or fix the base body in a crash-proof manner in the rail system free from tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Kurt BEYER
  • Publication number: 20110121598
    Abstract: A multi-functional device for a center stack of a vehicle and a center stack include, but are not limited to a storage room and a control panel, which is movable in an opened position and in a closed position. In the closed position the storage room is covered by the control panel. The storage room provides a connection element for multimedia devices and the multimedia devices are detachable from the connection element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Martin ANDERSSON
  • Patent number: 7938471
    Abstract: A deck board includes a board body arranged in a luggage area of a vehicle so as to be capable of being moved between an upper position and a lower position. The board body in the upper position separates the luggage area into upper and lower areas. The deck board further includes a front support portion that is rotatably connected to the front side of the board body so as to support the front side of the board body. Further included is a support pin that pivotally supports the fore end portion of the front support portion on the opposite side of the board body, so that a hinge portion can rotate. The deck board further includes a tension spring arranged to bias the front side of the board body toward the support pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuya Karaki, Hiroyuki Suzuki, Mikihiro Kito
  • Publication number: 20110101722
    Abstract: A storage device is provided for objects in a motor vehicle, that includes, but is not limited to a side wall which laterally defines a receiving space for the objects, as well as an elongate, elastic band element, which is mounted in a hinged manner in the region of its ends facing away from each other in the side wall. The band element can be deformed from a first stable curved position into a second stable, oppositely curved position in which it projects into the receiving space. A band-shaped molding is mounted in the band element, which molding projects from the curved plane of the band element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Ralf GAUDIG, Klaus KUHLMANN, Werner BERHARD
  • Patent number: 7934761
    Abstract: A storage compartment for a motor vehicle is provided. The storage compartment includes a wall and a supporting frame for supporting the wall. The wall can be varied in height, at least in some sections, by at least one winding shaft. The supporting frame has at least one receiving device with at least one connecting piece. The winding shaft is mounted on the connecting piece such that the winding shaft forms part of the supporting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: BOS GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Olaf Buehl, Christoph Gallandt, Uwe Rau, Werner P. Schlecht
  • Publication number: 20110095557
    Abstract: A tray mechanism may include a tray having a storage zone and a beverage holding device having a receptacle. The beverage holding device may automatically extend as the tray is extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald W. Myers, John Barlow, JR.
  • Patent number: 7933121
    Abstract: A portable video system comprises a video unit for facilitating play of a video medium, the player having a hinge, a display pivotally attached to the video player on the hinge, and a base unit secured to a substrate for selectively coupling a control panel of the video unit to the substrate, wherein the control panel can be selectively un-coupled from the base unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventor: George C. Schedivy
  • Patent number: 7931322
    Abstract: An automotive console is provided including an accessory receiving body or bodies generally located proximate one or more base portions positioned over or secured to a body, such as, for example, a floor pan/panel of an automobile. The accessory receiving body or bodies may each include a closure panel or the like and an actuator operably associated therewith. The actuator may be a switch, such as an electronic contact, arranged in a predetermined position, such that a portion of the closure panel operably contacts the actuator to deploy an accessory, such as a beverage container or the like. Further, it will be appreciated that upon movement of the closure panel away from the actuator, the actuator will be adapted to stow the accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Intier Automotive Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy F. O'Brien, Daniel V. Beckley, Lisa Ann Grems, Russell P. Shafer, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110068598
    Abstract: The sliding console assembly includes a lock assembly housing, a lock assembly, and a slidable storage compartment. The lock assembly housing is configured to house and guide the movement of a lock assembly. The lock assembly housing is fixedly mounted to the slidable storage compartment. The lock assembly has a plate slidable within the lock assembly housing between a first position and a second position. The plate also includes a pair of operative surfaces. The operative surfaces are spaced apart from each other, and are generally symmetrical to the other. The operative surfaces are disposed at an angle relative to the rails. The lock assembly also includes a pair of retainers and a first biasing member. A cable is attached to a pair of handles on one end and the plate on the other end. The handles actuate the lock assembly and disengage the lock assembly from the rails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Warren Penner
  • Publication number: 20110057467
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a parcel shelf structure whose opening can be kept largely when the tailgate is opened. In order to achieve the above object, a parcel shelf comprising: a front shelf having a front end rotatably supported by a vehicle body; a rear shelf fixed to a tailgate; and a strap to connect the tailgate to a position apart from the front end of the front shelf in a rear direction, in which when the tailgate is opened, the front shelf is apart from the rear shelf, and when the tailgate is closed, the front shelf is in touch with the rear shelf is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuichiro Umeda, Kiyoshi Hara, Keisuke Kato, Nobumoto Sekiguchi
  • Publication number: 20110037287
    Abstract: A lighting assembly for illuminating a console assembly of a vehicle includes a cup holder assembly in the console assembly having a cup-receiving volume. A storage bin in the console assembly has a storage volume. A light source assembly is mounted within the console assembly. The light source assembly illuminates the cup-receiving volume directly and illuminates the storage bin indirectly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Warren Penner
  • 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: 7878035
    Abstract: A lock system includes a lock mechanism for holding a lid element in a locked state, an electric actuator for driving the lock mechanism to an unlocking side based on an operation of an open switch, and a key cylinder adapted to be operated to rotate by a key so as to be switched through the rotational operation to an “UNLOCK” position where the open switch is enabled to function and a “LOCK” position where the open switch is disabled from functioning, whereby unlocking of the lid element is prohibited through a rotational operation of the key cylinder to the “LOCK” position. An operating unit of the lock system causes the key cylinder and the lock mechanism to be mechanically linked with each other by a wire cable, whereby the lock mechanism is forcibly driven to the unlocking side through a rotational operation of the key cylinder to the “OPEN” position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Taishi Yamaguchi, Yasuhiro Sakakibara
  • Patent number: 7878567
    Abstract: A center console for a motor vehicle has a basic body between the front seats with an upwardly open storage compartment over which a support part having an armrest which is displaceable with respect thereto is arranged. The armrest is displaceable from a pushed-back position between the front seats in the direction of the dashboard into a front position, wherein the support part is mounted pivotably on the basic body. The locking mechanism is provided with an actuating element via which, by an different actuation, a pivoting movement of the armrest together with the support part and a displacement movement of the armrest relative to the support part can be released. The locking mechanism is configured such that it permits a pivoting movement of the armrest together with the support part exclusively if the armrest is in its completely pushed-back position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengsellschaft
    Inventors: Andreas Schneider, Johannes Röcker, Hannes Rogl
  • Patent number: 7871115
    Abstract: A video system for selective mounting within a cradle secured to a ceiling of an automobile includes a video housing in which a video monitor and a video source are mounted and a base secured to the video housing in a manner that permits rotation of the video housing. The video housing includes a mounting bracket and the base includes a mounting bracket for use in pivotally coupling the video housing to the base. A motorized first hinge connects the base to the video housing for facilitating pivotal movement between the video housing and the base between a use position and a storage position, the first hinge includes a pivot pin having a first end and a second end and extends between, and is coupled to, the mounting bracket of the video housing and the mounting bracket of the base, the second end of the pivot pin is fixedly coupled to the mounting bracket of the base. The drive motor assembly is mounted to the video housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Vitito, Jeffrey D. Brawner
  • Patent number: 7870984
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for holding objects, preferably a telephone, in particular for use in a center arm rest and/or the center console of a vehicle, with a frame or receptacle and a reversibly closable lid which is mounted so that it may be swiveled in each case about one of the rotary axes arranged in the region of the upper closing edges of the side walls of the frame or container and lying essentially parallel to the closing edges. The lid has an opening and closing mechanism which is arranged in a function carrier frame that may be connected to the lid. In addition, the invention relates to a method for the production of a device for holding objects, in particular for use in a center arm rest and/or the center console of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Lisa Dräxlmaier GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Perl, Georg Sigl
  • Publication number: 20110006557
    Abstract: A mounting structure for vehicle interior parts includes a console member and a shift panel having an upper panel and a lower panel. An insertion portion that is inserted into a dent formed in a rear end of the console member is provided on a rear end of the lower panel. Left and right outer side surfaces of the insertion portion of the lower panel and left and right inner side surfaces of the dent of the console member are configured to be engageable by inserting engaging projections into engaging recesses. The engaging recesses are provided so as to restrict movements of the engaging projections in their longitudinal direction, and to allow positional deviation of the engaging projections in the vertical direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: TOYOTA SHATAI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masayuki Koizumi, Yusaku Furukawa
  • Patent number: 7862098
    Abstract: A vehicle interior assembly includes an interior panel and trim panel. The interior panel includes an opening and a mating part. The trim panel is snap-fitted into the opening of the interior panel and includes a main body. An accessory opening is provided in the main body adjacent to a first end thereof. The accessory opening is configured to receive an accessory adaptor that is insertable and removable perpendicularly to the first direction of the main body. A retention tab extends away from the first end of the main body along a section of a concealed surface of the interior panel adjacent to the opening and prevents movement of the trim panel perpendicularly to the first direction of the main body. A snap-fit part is releasably secured to the mating part of the interior panel portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher James Biggs, Michael Eberlein
  • Patent number: 7854470
    Abstract: A load transmission body for a vehicle, transmitting an impact load to a floor of the vehicle body, the load transmission body includes: a pair of side walls fixed to the floor of the vehicle body and extending in a vehicle front-back direction; a front reinforcing wall having a closed cross-sectional structure, extending in a vehicle width direction, and reciprocally coupling with the pair of side walls; a rear reinforcing wall disposed at a vehicle rear side of the front reinforcing wall, having a closed cross-sectional structure, extending in the vehicle width direction, and reciprocally coupling with the pair of side walls; and a side reinforcing member disposed at each of the front reinforcing wall and the rear reinforcing wall, extending in the vehicle front-back direction, and coupling the front reinforcing wall with the rear reinforcing wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jogen Yamaki, Takeshi Abe, Hisato Oku
  • Publication number: 20100308616
    Abstract: An occupant-interactive accessory system for an automotive vehicle interior includes a number of different utilities for use by an occupant of the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The combination of a wedging mounting structure attached to each utility and wedging interfaces incorporated within interior structures of the vehicle allow the utilities to be mounted or dismounted manually, without the use of tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Kaushlendra Singh, Jeffrey P. Webb, Mike J. Whitens, Raymond Dong
  • Publication number: 20100308615
    Abstract: This invention provides for an apparatus for storing one or more items. The apparatus comprises a first part adapted to be mounted to a surface or a wall and a second part mounted by a linkage arrangement to a sliding mechanism that can slidably move relative to the first part. The second part is adapted to store or hold one or more items. The second part is movable relative to the first part such that the second part can be moved from a storage position to a first access position at which the second part is at one level. The linkage arrangement is operative to move the second part from the first access position to a second access position, the second access position being located at a level spaced from that of the first access position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Shane Robert Miles
  • Patent number: 7845701
    Abstract: The invention concerns a storage compartment for a motor vehicle with a container (110) and a container lid (112), arranged on the container in a pivotal fashion, a pivoted lever (116), arranged on the container lid, a first elastic element (120), whose first end (122) is connected with the container and whose second end (118) is connected with the pivoted lever, so that the first elastic element acts upon the container lid with a closing force and/or a closing torque, a locking element (126), which is mounted in a pivotal fashion, so that, in case of an impact of the motor vehicle, said locking element, due to its mass inertia, will be brought into a locking position for locking the pivoted lever into position, whereby the locking element is mounted in such a way that it is pivotal around the first end of the first elastic element, whereby the first elastic element is a dead center spring, and whereby the dead center spring is embodied in such a way that it exerts the closing force and/or closing torque a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Faurecia Innenraum Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Müller
  • Publication number: 20100301625
    Abstract: An overhead console may include a conversation mirror having a fitting protrusion formed on one end thereof, a housing having adjoining main and auxiliary spaces defined therein, wherein the auxiliary space releasably stores the conversation mirror, a cover pivotally coupled to the housing to open or close the main space, wherein the cover has a bucket to be selectively engaged to the main space, a latch part provided in an upper portion of the auxiliary space, wherein the fitting protrusion of the conversation mirror is fastened into or unfastened from the latch part so that the conversation mirror is stored inside or released from the auxiliary space, and an elastic member fixing the auxiliary space and the conversation mirror, wherein the elastic member applies an elastic force in a direction to release the conversation mirror from the auxiliary space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Gwon Hak Lee
  • Patent number: 7832685
    Abstract: An aircraft stowage bin assembly includes shear fittings configured to route a content load from the bucket of the bin assembly to the airframe in the event of a forward load condition, such as a crash or severe turbulence. When the forward inertial load factor on the stowage bin is greater than about 1 g, the shear fittings create an efficient load path from the bucket to the airframe which bypasses the large metallic or composite endframes required by the designs of many conventional overhead stowage bins. As a result, significant reductions in overall bulk and weight, as well as lower manufacturing costs, can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael S. Haynes, Chad D. Schmitz, Joseph M. Manhardt
  • Publication number: 20100283277
    Abstract: A vehicle console having side panels that can be shortened to different lengths for shortening the console. Molded side rails are optionally fitted to upper connection portions of the side panels and can be shortened to match the different shorter lengths of the side panels. A plurality of face plates are provided for mounting equipment on the console.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Publication number: 20100283281
    Abstract: A vehicle console having side panels that can be shortened to different lengths for shortening the console. Molded side rails are fitted to upper connection portions of the side panels and can be shortened to match the different shorter lengths of the side panels. A plurality of face plates are provided for mounting equipment on the console.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7823949
    Abstract: A vehicle trim component is disclosed. The vehicle trim component includes a base with a track. A panel movable between a first position and a second position and having at least one guide member at its lateral edge that engages the track as the panel is moved between the first position and the second position. A latch system including a catch and a biasing member. The guide member engages the catch when the panel is in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Joel E. VandenHeuvel, Paul L. Gossett, Randy William Nurenberg, Jerry J. Luchies
  • Publication number: 20100270820
    Abstract: The mixture of the invention contains, for 100 parts in weight of (A)+(B): (A) 10 to 90 parts in weight of at least one non-nanostructured olefinic thermoplastic polymer; (B) 90 to 10 parts in weight of a formulation of at least one elastomer having unsaturated double bonds and capable of reacting with a cross-linking or vulcanization agent, said formulation containing a crosslinking or vulcanization system of said elastomer(s), at least one plasticizer, and the standard additives present in elastomer formulations; (C) up to 100 parts in weight, relative to (A)+(B), of at least one copolymer grafted with polyamide blocks, said copolymer comprising a polyolefin trunk and at least 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventors: Marius Hert, Dominique Jousset
  • Patent number: 7819454
    Abstract: A vehicle cabinet having cabinet cleats used in conjunction with a vehicle cabin having cabinet cleat receivers is provided for use with a vehicle for operation on the ground. The cabinet cleat receivers cooperate with the cabinet cleats in such a way that locating the receivers with the cleats is easy and requires minimal manipulation by an installer. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Robert C. Kittelson, Joel D. Reed, Patrick E. Temple, Timothy G. Siebert, Charles W. Kipfer
  • Patent number: 7806451
    Abstract: A vehicle center console assembly having a bin secured to a floor of the vehicle and revealing an interior bounded in part by first and second extending sides. A pair of support rails extend along inner surfaces of the extending sides in communication with its interior. A first tray is supported upon the rails and adapted to be slidably displaced between forward and rearward locations associated with the bin. A second tray includes side projecting lip edges overlaying the support rails and is adapted to being releasably secured to an exposed edge location of the first tray, such that the second tray is capable of being displaced with the first tray in substantially non-contacting fashion with top surfaces of the support rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Charan Singh Lota
  • Patent number: 7806453
    Abstract: A cargo storage and support system and method is provided for use in a vehicle which includes a substantially planar storage body made of a collapsible material and having a first edge and a second edge substantially parallel to the first edge, at least one collapsible storage area formed within the substantially planar storage body and at least one attachment structure formed adjacent the first edge and the second edge of the storage body for attachment to a vehicle body. The storage body is maintained in tension when in use so that it can carry a load. The storage areas are formed within the storage body and can be accessed from a top surface of the storage body and are collapsible. The storage body can also be removed from the vehicle for pre-loading or if it is not being used. Attachment structures formed adjacent the storage body mate with receiving structures formed on a vehicle so that the storage body is maintained in tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Paul T. Aebker
  • Publication number: 20100244506
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include an amenity pocket comprising a rigid structure, a vehicle surface, and a deployment mechanism. The deployment mechanism provides a non-zero deployment angle of the rigid structure relative to the vehicle surface. In some embodiments, the amenity pocket is coupled to a passenger seat back. In other embodiments, a mounting structure comprising a base may be pivotally coupled to the base of the rigid structure and coupled to the vehicle surface. An interior surface of the rigid structure may be coupled to a filler. In some embodiments, the filler may be coupled to a protective surface. In other embodiments, an exterior surface of the rigid structure may be coupled to a cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: TIMOTHY W. TERLESKI, Staci Ault Mininger, Rik Westerink
  • Publication number: 20100244505
    Abstract: A screen apparatus includes a screen assembly and structure. The structure defines a cavity having an opening to a vehicle passenger compartment. The screen assembly includes a frame and a video screen mounted with respect to the frame. The screen assembly is selectively movable between a retracted position in which the screen is inside the cavity and concealed from view, and a deployed position in which the screen is outside the cavity and visible from the passenger compartment. The screen apparatus is configured such that the movement of the screen assembly between the retracted and deployed positions is restricted to substantially linear translation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Robert L. Demick, Daniel W. Booth, John M. Coleman, Ralph C. Dewitt, Jonathan E. Kring, Paul J. Dulman, III, Jesse J. Brinster, Patrick B. Usoro, Xiujie Gao
  • Publication number: 20100244479
    Abstract: A sliding bar assembly (100) for use in cargo storage applications includes end caps (209, 211) that are used to provide support for a support bar (201, 203) extending between the end caps (209, 211). A retaining member (205) is attached to one or more of the support bars (201, 203) for retaining cargo within a storage area located behind the retaining member. The end caps (209, 211) further include a channel track (307) that is used for guiding the support bar (201, 203) between a substantially raised position and substantially lowered position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Gayle D. Goodrich
  • Publication number: 20100244478
    Abstract: This invention relates to a console that is adapted to be located between first and second seats in a vehicle, the console having a base including a guide surface; and an armrest supported on the guide surface for movement relative to the base in a first direction and a second direction that is different from the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventor: TODD L. DePUE
  • Patent number: 7802835
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a ceiling with a headliner. A cradle is secured within the ceiling of the vehicle such that it is substantially flush with the headliner, the cradle being shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding a video system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher J. Vitito
  • Patent number: 7802831
    Abstract: Locking structures each include a locking claw portion formed on a desired object, and a locking clamp mechanism formed on at least one of left and right wall portions of a console device. The clamp mechanism has a fitting hole portion formed in the wall portion for fitting therein of the locking claw portion, a locking support portion for lockingly supporting the claw portion fitted in the fitting hole portion, and a pair of opposed movement-preventing projecting portions formed on opposite ends of the support portion for preventing movement of the object between the opposite ends. The clamp mechanism also having a resiliently-deformable elastic portion formed integrally with the wall portion to extend into the hole portion for resiliently pressing the claw portion against the support portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Isayama, Hajime Seino
  • Patent number: 7802833
    Abstract: A console of a tunnel for the passenger compartment of a vehicle has an outer structure that houses, in a fixed position, a glove compartment fitted with a hatch; the console has a wall, which is positioned outside of said compartment and is movable, in response to an action by the user, with respect to an upper surface of the structure, between a lowered position and a raised position, so as to project upwards with respect to this upper surface and define an outer compartment when located in the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Giovanni Boreanaz, Federica Fino, Angelo Storgato
  • Patent number: 7802832
    Abstract: A reconfigurable vehicle console having a plurality of interchangeable tongue-and-groove blank and equipment mounting panels and quick disconnect clamps associated with each panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali