Lining Patents (Class 296/39.1)
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Publication number: 20040160077Abstract: A protective liner for a truck bed, and a method for making the same. The liner includes a coated liner adhesively coupled to a truck bed, the coated liner having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface contacting the truck bed and having a transverse section and a bed section, the transverse section and the bed section forming a cavity; and a pre-formed liner disposed within the cavity and at least partially contacting the second surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Claudio Burtin
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Publication number: 20040160078Abstract: A pillar trim structure suitable for a vehicle equipped with a curtain type airbag. A suspending bracket is formed on the inner surface of the pillar trim in the vicinity of a screw housing. Restrainers are disposed between the pillar trim and the suspending bracket. A supporting plate is inserted into the gap formed between the restrainer and the suspending bracket, wherein the pillar trim and said supporting plate is secured together to a body panel of a vehicle by means of a screw that passes therethrough, so that a detachment of the pillar trim from the body panel, which is mainly caused by an inflation (explosive) force of the airbag, is effectively prevented during the deployment of the airbag.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Min Ho Hwang
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Patent number: 6758510Abstract: Interior trim components for vehicles include a trim panel configured to be attached to an A-pillar of a vehicle. The trim panel is a multilayer composite and an exposed layer includes one or more reflective elements constructed and arranged to provide a rear view image to a driver of the vehicle. A housing may be provided that is movably mounted to the trim panel and that is rotatable about a first axis. A reflective element is movably mounted to the housing and rotatable about a second axis transverse to the first axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Collins & Aikman Products Co.Inventor: Matt Starling
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Patent number: 6746199Abstract: An adjustable system and an associated method for handling cargo in a cargo carrier are provided. The system includes a plurality of strips of low friction material for supporting the cargo during unloading or loading and during transit. Each strip has a relatively lower coefficient of friction than a floor of the cargo carrier and can be adjusted between an operative position and a non-operative position. In the operative position, the strips extend from the floor of the cargo carrier so that the cargo can be slid upon and supported by the strips. In the non-operative position, the strips are adjusted relative to the floor so that cargo in the carrier is at least partially supported by the floor.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Inventors: Paul Jennings Carawan, Michael D. Adams, Brian W. Merriman
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Patent number: 6733066Abstract: A device to aid vehicle occupants to open a door wider than would be possible by merely opening it with one arm extended. The device comprises a main body having a backer in which is disposed a moveable insert for extending the length of the main body. The main body may be attached by a rear surface mounted Velcro® layer for engagement with a second Velcro® layer on the interior panel of the door of the vehicle. A pair of spaced brackets mounted to the main body are used to mount the main body within a pocket attached to the door. An impact receiver is optionally removably adhesed to the main body, and is adapted to receive the impact of the driver's foot. The impact receiver is removable for easy cleaning should it become soiled.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Inventor: Dionna Valdez
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Publication number: 20040084923Abstract: A covering for use with a motor vehicle. The covering having a channel and multiple sloped grooves. The groves slope toward the channel for directing fluid toward the channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Applicant: Lear CorporationInventor: Yu-Jin Song
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Patent number: 6729671Abstract: A removable liner for the flexible conversion of a car, van or minibus into a robust all-purpose carrier. The entire space available within the vehicle for load transportation is hermetically encapsulated by being lined with an abrasion-resistant, particularly lightweight and elastic material specifically developed for this purpose. The liner consists of a floor having adjoining side parts to half the height of the interior space of the vehicle, the roof lining with adjoining side parts to half the height of the interior space of the vehicle and the front and rear flaps. The liner can be folded together, the side parts first being folded together onto the floor from left and right. The roof lining then automatically lies on the side parts. The front and rear flaps close off the folded-together container, so that a lightweight, compact and portable package is formed.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Inventor: Annette Lily Keles
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Patent number: 6719348Abstract: A covering for use with a motor vehicle. The covering has a channel and multiple sloped grooves. The grooves slope toward the channel for directing fluid toward the channel.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Yu-Jin Song
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Publication number: 20040066054Abstract: An inner shell (10) for vehicle bodies molded from a foam plastic includes at least one flap (14) which can move optionally between a non-usage position to a usage position. Preferably the flap (14) serves as a sun visor, allows access to a function element (44) or a cavity (16), or both. According to the invention the flap (22) is formed as a part of the inner shell (10) and in its non-usage position closes essentially surface-flush with the areas of the inner shell (10) adjacent to the flap (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2003Publication date: April 8, 2004Inventors: Horst Bohm, Rainer Grimm
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Patent number: 6713138Abstract: A combination fluid collection container and drive-up service point in a traffic lane. The fluid collection container for retention of leaked automobile fluids is thermally bonded to the traffic lane surface adjacent to a drive up service point. The shallow, rectangular basin is formed of a thermoplastic material which is impervious to automotive fuels and lubricants, and resistant to wear and degradation by the environment. The container is formed of multiple thermoplastic components which are assembled during installation on the traffic lane surface. These components include a base sheet which provides the bottom surface of the container, side walls, and end walls. The outer edges of the end walls may be tapered during installation to remove any abrupt discontinuities in the traffic lane surface. The leaked fluids are retained within the container until removed in compliance with local laws and codes.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Darrell P. Griner
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Publication number: 20040051335Abstract: Hinges are provided for vehicle floor systems that include an elongated, planar bridge member, and opposite first and second hinge members pivotally attached to the bridge member. The first and second hinge members are each pivotally connected to a respective edge portion of the bridge member. Each hinge member includes a base member and a planar upper panel that extends outwardly from the base member. The upper panel of each hinge member is configured to removably secure a vehicle floor panel thereto. Each hinge member is movable between a first position wherein the upper panel may be substantially coplanar with the bridge member, and a second position wherein the upper panel is transverse to the bridge member. The width of the bridge member is at least twice the pile dimension or compressed pile dimension of overlying carpet to prevent damage to the carpet when the hinge members are pivoted.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2003Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventors: Per Erlandsson, Duane Poliquin, Sture Andersson
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Patent number: 6682118Abstract: An organizer liner is provided for use in a vehicle cargo compartment. The liner has a flexible bottom preferably conforming generally to the shape of the cargo compartment floor, and one or more of rear, side and front rigid elements, preferably at least some of which generally conform to walls of the cargo compartment. The rigid elements preferably include storage means such as cup holders, trays, bins, insulated coolers, soda or water/milk jug holders, storage boxes with or without lids, or storage wells. Optional partition dividers may be provided. The dividers may include at least one long reinforced divider between opposite walls of the liner, and optionally at least one short divider between the long divider and a wall of the liner, or between two long dividers.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1999Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Neocon International Inc.Inventor: Patrick T. Ryan
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Publication number: 20040007892Abstract: An interior part of a vehicle comprises an outer wall constituted by a resin and/or a material containing the resin, and a thermal conductive member joined to the outer wall. The thermal conductive member is partially joined to a vehicle body panel and/or a metal part engaged with the vehicle body panel, so that temperature increase in a vehicle cabin is controlled effectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2003Publication date: January 15, 2004Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiroaki Harata, Hiroaki Miura
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Patent number: 6676195Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing a vehicle door barrier or shield for attachment to an inner door trim panel mountable on a vehicle door in which the barrier self-seals the opening between the vehicle door and the interior passenger compartment. The barrier is formed of a resilient gasket material that is shaped or formed with a peripheral rail or spring attachment surface that is compressed as the interior vehicle door trim panel is fastened to the interior surface of the door sheet metal to effect a watertight seal about the periphery of the door. The attachment surface carrying a seal material is disposed in an interference position with the door inner panel when the joined inner door trim panel and the barrier are mounted on the door inner panel. The interference deflects the attachment surface to create a joining force to secure the seal material to the door inner panel.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Creative Foam Corp.Inventors: Donald P. Marriott, Steve Hummel
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Patent number: 6669265Abstract: A liner/insulator includes a pad of fibrous material having a lofty, acoustically insulating portion and a relatively higher density skin along a first face thereof that may function as a water barrier. The acoustical liner is a non-laminate made from polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, glass fibers, natural fibers and any mixtures thereof. For certain applications the liner/insulator may incorporate a facing on one or even two opposing faces thereof. A method of insulating a door including an exterior body panel and an interior fascia panel as well as a door for a vehicle are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey A. Tilton, Thomas T. Block, Lee A. Staelgraeve, Daniel J. Eigel
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Patent number: 6663156Abstract: A protective mat assembly for preventing undesirable contact between a person and an exterior surface of a vehicle when accessing the vehicle's cargo area as well as protecting the interior cargo space when carrying dirty objects. A folding mat is conveniently stowed in and deployed from its own storage compartment housed in the vehicle's cargo area. The mat can be easily moved between three positions, depending upon the intended use of the vehicle cargo area. In a fully stowed position, the mat is housed substantially within the storage compartment and is out of the way, enabling use of the vehicle cargo area by passengers or to carry relatively clean and large items such as luggage. In a first operative position, the mat is deployed from its storage compartment and extends out through a vehicle opening, draping over the opening as well as adjacent exterior surfaces of the vehicle such as a bumper or sill.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Ford Motor CorporationInventors: Mason C. Kincaid, Alexandra Schmidt, Brian Ehrlich, G. Sean Haag, Susan Eitelman, Yonah Graves
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Patent number: 6659536Abstract: A door protector module includes a unitarily constructed inner belt weatherstrip, a shield and a lower door seal which are attachable as a one piece assembly to a vehicle door inner trim panel or the inner door panel. The inner belt weatherstrip, the shield and the lower door shield are formed with complimentary adjoining shapes for affixing the inner belt weatherstrip, the shield and the lower door shield into a unitary structure by snaps, fasteners, adhesive, etc.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: JS Chamberlain & Associates, Inc.Inventors: William S. Chamberlain, David Otto
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Patent number: 6652019Abstract: A cargo trailer having thin walls wherein the thin walls consist of a plurality of adjacent overlapping outer plates, a plurality of regularly spaced thin posts and a plurality of thin liner panels between and overlapping the posts. The liner panels are u-shaped plates with flanges on each edge containing holes of equal or alternating diameters. When the liner panels have holes of alternating diameters, the liner panels are fastened to the thin posts and outer plates only by the fasteners in the smaller of the alternating diameter holes, such that the liner can be removed without disassembling the outer plate and post components of the wall. The horizontal distance between the holes in the liner panels is less than the horizontal distance between the holes in the outer plates resulting in the liner panel being stretched when assembled.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Utility Trailer Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Jeffrey J. Bennett
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Patent number: 6644713Abstract: The attachment system consists of a metal part with a base (1) having a central orifice for passage of a screw (9), by which are secured an accessory (10) and a lining (11) on said clip, in order to attach the entire assembly on the plate (8) of a vehicle body, with the attachment obtained by passing the clip through an orifice provided for such purpose on said plate (8). The clip has lateral flexible flaps (5) elbowed on their lower free ends and ending in corresponding tabs (7) that project and diverge outwards to define the structure for anchoring the clip on the orifice of the plate (8) after said flaps (5) pass through the aforementioned orifice, holding the accessory (10) and the lining (11) to the base (1) of the clip, so that these components are thus attached to the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Grupo Antolin-Ingenieria, S.A.Inventors: Rubén Del Pozo Abejon, José Manuel Bartolomé Alcalde
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Patent number: 6644727Abstract: An inner shell for a roof module in sandwich construction comprises an inner layer and a holding layer in which a reinforcement layer is embedded. The reinforcement layer is arranged within the holding layer at a side thereof which faces the inner layer. The holding layer is provided with pocket-like recesses on its side facing away from the inner layer which extend as far as to the reinforcement layer.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: ArvinMeritor GmbHInventors: Bernard Audibert, Daniel Hock
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Patent number: 6641194Abstract: A vehicle exterior component includes an unwoven fabric having a noise absorbing function and an additional layer attached to the unwoven fabric. The unwoven fabric includes main fibers and binder fibers. The melting point of the binder fibers is lower than that of the main fibers. The unwoven fabric further includes a mesh structure in which the main fibers and the binder fibers are intertwined and welded to each other. The mesh structure is obtained by pressing a fiber web in which the main fibers and the binder fibers are intertwined. The unwoven fabric is formed into a predetermined outer shape. The additional layer has a function other than the noise absorbing function.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuya Fujii, Takehiko Shiraki, Daiichiro Kawashima, Koichi Ogiso, Hiromi Hyuga, Yoshimi Nagata
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Patent number: 6631937Abstract: A soundproofing cover absorbs noises, produced by a vehicle. It is fastened to a plurality of vehicle-side installation portions, and includes a cover body, composed of a polymer foamed substance, and a plurality of brackets, held integrally to the cover body. The respective brackets have an installation portion and a holding portion. The installation portion is to be fastened to the vehicle-side installation portions. The holding portion is held and fastened integrally to the cover body. At least two of the installation portions constitute a datum bracket, connected by one of the holding portions shared commonly. The positioning accuracy can be improved in the installation of the soundproofing cover to the vehicle-side installation portions so that the installation operability can be upgraded. In addition, the increment of the weight can be kept minimum so that the lightweighting requirement can be satisfied.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2001Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Miyakawa, Michio Ito
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Publication number: 20030178869Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cargo compartment protective liner utilized to eliminate damage to a vehicle's interior when hauling potentially messy cargo such as leaves, construction materials, or animals. The fully enclosed liner apparatus requires no modification to a vehicle to facilitate its use. The present invention generally comprises a collapsible, rigid frame designed to support six flexible panels that retain any dirt, debris, animal hair, etc., placed therein. One or more of the side or end panels may be opened to facilitate the loading and unloading of the apparatus. The flexible side and end panels are generally opaque, but two or more may be transparent to provide the driver with the sight lines required to safely operate the vehicle in which a liner apparatus has been installed. The liner apparatus is fully collapsible for ease of storage when not in use.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2003Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Scott Edward Adams
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Patent number: 6623069Abstract: A vehicle roof module with integrated lighting system for the interior lighting has several light-conducting rods, preferably made from glass, and a light source is foam-molded into an inner shell of the roof interior, molded from foamed plastic and forming the roof module, so that only the light outlet surfaces of the light-emitting ends of the light-conducting rods are disposed in the visible surface of the roof interior. By a suitable choice of the number of light-conducting rods and the distribution pattern of the corresponding light outlet surfaces, both a uniform interior lighting and special lighting effects can be achieved.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: ArvinMeritor GmbHInventor: Rainer Grimm
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Patent number: 6619724Abstract: Motor-vehicle door (1) comprising an outer wall (2) and an inner wall (3), a cladding part (4) mounted on the inner wall (3), and an insulation element (5) disposed between the inner wall (3) and the cladding part (4), the insulation element (5) being formed as a foam layer and being clamped in at its edge between the cladding part (4) and the inner wall (3) in a clamping region (K), wherein the insulation element (5) is secured in an adhesive-free manner between the cladding part (4) and the inner wall (3) in the clamping region (K), forming a positively locking profiling.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Carcoustics Tech Center GmbHInventors: Heinz Blömeling, Christian Gnädig, Martin Jenny
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Patent number: 6619717Abstract: The protective liner retainer of the present invention comprises a panel attachment member for securing the retainer to a cargo panel of a cargo bed or other material handling bin, a liner attachment member with cleats for securing a protective liner to the retainer, and a support member for attaching the liner attachment member to the panel attachment member and for defining the thickness of liner that may be secured by the retainer by defining the separation between the panel attachment member and the liner attachment member.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Inventor: Shane Gardiner
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Patent number: 6612640Abstract: A vehicular interior space module comprises an interior space lining part that has a large surface area and is visible from inside in a state when installed in a vehicle, the interior space lining part including an opening. The module further comprises an insert which is located in the opening and fastened to the interior space lining part, the insert having an outer housing in which at least one electrical component is arranged. At least one exposed electrical contact surface area is provided on the interior space lining part arranged directly on an edge of the opening, the insert having a fastener for attaching the insert to the interior space lining part. The fastener includes a cooperating contact configured such that the contact surface area contacts the cooperating contact in an electrically conductive manner through fastening the insert in the opening.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: ArvinMeritor GmbHInventors: Daniel Hock, Arnulf Zinsmeister
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Publication number: 20030151270Abstract: A liner for a cargo area of a vehicle, such as a car, truck, trailer, or the like, includes at least three layers, a base layer, an intermediate patterned layer, and a clear or transparent top layer so that the patterned layer may be viewed. The patterned layer may be monochromatic, where only a single color is used, or it may be polychromatic, where several colors are used. The patterned layer may be a color scape, a design or logo, a message, or any decorative item, etc. Three embodiments of methods for making a liner are disclosed. The methods include the use of a female mold, a male mold, or a combination of male and female molds where the male mold is a ram applying pressure and heat to the several layers on the female mold.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Raymond Zappe
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Patent number: 6601908Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2003Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: U-Haul International, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Votruba, Patrick W. Breslin, Michael H. Dilgard, David L. Simpson, Thomas F. Bone
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Patent number: 6595568Abstract: A removable, bag-like protective liner is provided for the interior of a motor vehicle with a rear opening. The liner defines an internal compartment for storage of cargo in the rear of the vehicle while protecting the interior of the vehicle from damage by the cargo. The liner is supported by a plurality of attachments which secure the liner to the interior of the motor vehicle. In addition, a sidewall portion and the forward end portion are configured such that the height of the liner can be selectively adjusted based upon the interior height of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Del C Schroeder, Jeremy A Panasiewicz, Jason E Fulcher, Gerard Olszewski, Patrick J O'Mahony
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Patent number: 6592164Abstract: A recessed portion is formed partially in an outer panel. The recessed portion has an inner wall which inclines slightly downwardly toward the inside of a body and an inner-most wall extending vertically. A retaining member is mounted on the inner-most wall. Formed on the retaining member is a locking face confronting the inner wall and a raised portion. A flange portion is provided on a bumper face. The flange portion is formed into a tapered configuration in which the thickness thereof decreases as it extends toward a distal end thereof and has a lock hole formed at a position corresponding to the raised portion. The flange portion is held between the locking face and the inner wall and is locked on the locking face by fitting the raised portion in the lock hole.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignees: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Suiryo Plastics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Nagae, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Tomoshi Uesaki
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Publication number: 20030107230Abstract: A removable liner for the flexible conversion of an automobile, van or minibus into a robust all-purpose carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2002Publication date: June 12, 2003Inventor: Annette Lily Keles
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Patent number: 6575527Abstract: A semi-flexible vehicle headliner assembly and a method of installing the same are provided. The headliner assembly includes a headliner piece and a support unit. The headliner piece is bendable to permit variable shaping for installation. A method of installing the headliner assembly with an upper surface to the inside of a vehicle roof is provided which includes the steps of connecting a back side of a support unit to the inside of the vehicle roof and connecting the upper surface of the substrate to the roof of the vehicle temporarily until the substrate can be securely installed.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: Advantage Mobility Outfitters, Inc.Inventor: James E. Bishop, Jr.
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Patent number: 6572952Abstract: A carpet mat assembly with shock absorbing properties includes a mat made of closed cell foam sections. The mat sections are sized to be readily portable, preferably 4 foot by 6 foot in size. The mat thickness is selected to conform to ASTM F1292-99. Preferably, the mat thickness is 1⅛″ thick. The mat section may be coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive covering on one side of the mat. The pressure sensitive adhesive is covered with a removable liner. The liner is removed to expose the pressure sensitive adhesive. Carpet is applied to the coated surface of the mat and the pressure sensitive adhesive bonds the carpet to the mat. The outer perimeters of each mat may be lined with a hook and pile fastener such as 3M Velcro® for attaching multiple sections of the carpet mat assembly securely together.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2000Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
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Publication number: 20030094828Abstract: A first fastener is constituted by a grommet having a diametrically expandable divided distal end portion and a cap provided with a pres-fit pin adapted to be press fitted in the grommet, the divided distal end portion of the grommet is inserted into a through hole in the pillar, and the press-fit pin is press fitted in the grommet, whereby the press-fit pin is attached to the grommet and the diametrical contraction of the grommet is prevented by the press-fit pin.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2002Publication date: May 22, 2003Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Satoru Nagamoto
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Patent number: 6557929Abstract: An impact absorbing assembly for vehicle interiors comprises a body having tabs that are connected to the body by a bendable hinge. The body may be either secured to a structural member, a trim piece or may be formed integrally from part of a structural component making up part of the vehicle. The impact absorbing assembly may be disposed behind a covering layer. A method of making an impact absorbing assembly with sheet metal forming processes and method of absorbing impacts is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: David M. Fox, George B. Byma, Joseph J. Grajewski, Timothy R. Hubbert, Arun A. Chickmenahalli
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Patent number: 6554348Abstract: A bus body comprising opposite side walls, a rear wall and a roof including inner and outer fiberglass wall members which define a space therebetween. The space between the inner and outer wall members is filled with a polypropylene honeycomb material. In a modified version of the bus body, the polypropylene honeycomb material is only positioned between the inner and outer wall members in those areas which may be subjected to moisture.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Dan H. Gernstein
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Publication number: 20030071475Abstract: The attachment system consists of a metal part with a base (1) having a central orifice for passage of a screw (9), by which are secured an accessory (10) and a lining (11) on said clip, in order to attach the entire assembly on the plate (8) of a vehicle body, with the attachment obtained by passing the clip through an orifice provided for such purpose on said plate (8). The clip has lateral flexible flaps (5) elbowed on their lower free ends and ending in corresponding tabs (7) that project and diverge outwards to define the means for anchoring the clip on the orifice of the plate (8) after said flaps (5) pass through the aforementioned orifice, holding the accessory (10) and the lining (11) to the base (1) of the clip, so that these components are thus attached to the vehicle body.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2002Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Ruben Del Pozo Abejon, Jose Manuel Bartolome Alcalde
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Patent number: 6536827Abstract: A flexible pick-up box enclosable liner for use in a motor vehicle having a pick-up box rear compartment. The flexible pick-up box liner includes an enclosable liner arranged to form a base portion, several sidewalls, and an upper portion, which collectively define an internal compartment, as well as an adjustable fastener system for selectively reducing and expanding the volume of the internal compartment. The liner preferably includes several fasteners for attaching the liner to a pick-up box, and a structural support system for retaining the upper portion of the liner.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Lawrence J Oswald, Del C Schroeder, John Sabol, William W Doolittle, III
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Publication number: 20030038497Abstract: A new, novel and useful automobile tailgate guard comprising a folding or recoiling mat, removably installed in: the trunk area of an automobile with a relatively flat trunk cargo area; or the cargo area of a vehicle with a hatchback or swinging door access, such as a SUV, station wagon, van, or mini van. When folded in place, the automobile tailgate guard lies flat down against floor at the threshold of the of the cargo area. When unfolded, one panel of the automobile tailgate guard remains fastened in place inside the threshold of the cargo area, while the other panels extend out through the open hatchway (hatchback door raised or swing away doors open) to provide at least one flap of material which covers the threshold, bumper and rear end area of the vehicle. When extended the automobile tailgate guard provides a clean place to sit at the tailgate of the vehicle, preventing road grime from the rear bumper and vehicle panels from getting on clothing.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2002Publication date: February 27, 2003Inventor: Paul J. Fitzgerald
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Publication number: 20030030296Abstract: An impact absorbing assembly for vehicle interiors comprises a body having tabs that are connected to the body by a bendable hinge. The body may be either secured to a structural member, a trim piece or may be formed integrally from part of a structural component making up part of the vehicle. The impact absorbing assembly may be disposed behind a covering layer. A method of making an impact absorbing assembly with sheet metal forming processes and method of absorbing impacts is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2001Publication date: February 13, 2003Inventors: David M. Fox, George B. Byma, Joseph J. Grajewski, Timothy R. Hubbert, Arun A. Chickmenahalli
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Patent number: 6517144Abstract: An impact absorbing member is composed of a first impact absorbing portion disposed between a roof side panel and a roof head lining, a second impact absorbing portion disposed between the roof head lining and a region that is in a reinforcement and that is spaced from the roof side panel towards a central portion of the roof, and a third impact absorbing portion connecting the first impact absorbing portion to the second impact absorbing portion. The third impact absorbing portion is thinner than the first impact absorbing portion and the second impact absorbing portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yasuo Kobayashi
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Patent number: 6517147Abstract: A sandwich construction vehicle roof module with an inner shell applied to this made of a dimensionally stable foam plastic has, integrated in the inner shell and formed from its foam plastic, grilles for air outlet and/or air passage. The grilles are therefore not components to be produced separately and installed in the inner shell, but unobtrusive elements of the inner shell itself and allow dazzle-free indirect lighting of the vehicle interior and/or the passage of targeted air flows for the ventilation and air extraction system for the vehicle interior.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: ArvinMeritor GmbHInventor: Rainer Grimm
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Patent number: 6509084Abstract: Thermoplastic products such as vehicle cargo area liners, floor mats, recreational and playground equipment, cargo pallets, and wet area walking surfaces are provided with an antislip surface treatment. The antislip surface is made up of individual non-interconnected asperities of an antislip polymer material, which do not form a continuous film over the surface of the thermoplastic product. The thermoplastic product is especially made of high density polyethylene. The antislip polymer is preferably a thermoset polymer, and most particularly is a polyurea/isocyanate polymer. The antislip polymer is preferably applied by spraying, and then the product is heat treated at a temperature in the range from 100 to 200° F., or is thermoformed at a temperature in the range from 250 to 550° F. The antislip asperities are durably bonded onto the thermoplastic base material, and provide a significantly increased coefficient of friction.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2000Date of Patent: January 21, 2003Assignee: Custom Plastics Molding, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Sturtevant, Edward E. Cullivan
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Patent number: 6485049Abstract: A trim panel assembly for attachment to a body panel of a motor vehicle includes a main body portion and a mounting arrangement. The mounting arrangement includes a first mounting member. The first mounting member has a generally L-shaped configuration with a first leg and a second leg. The first leg extends generally perpendicular to the main body portion. The second leg extends generally parallel to the main body portion. Preferably, the mounting arrangement further includes a second mounting member for resiliently biasing the main body portion downward. In one particular application, the trim panel assembly is a B-pillar trim panel assembly. In this particular application, the first mounting member extends through an aperture in the B-pillar and the second mounting member resiliently engages a housing of an airbag assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Gregg Prottengeier, Tim Stillwell, Mark Bouvier Schatz
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Patent number: 6481776Abstract: A vehicle interior-material is provided that efficiently dampens impact forces with ribs protruding into a limited space enclosed by a vehicle panel and a facer, and that reduces the protrusion height of the ribs, thereby curbing the amount that the vehicle interior material bulges into the space of the vehicle interior. The vehicle interior material includes a facer (2) with a substantially C-shaped cross-section covering a panel ridge (7) extending in a longitudinal direction on the vehicle compartment side of a vehicle panel, a space (4) being provided between the panel ridge and the facer; and a plurality of plate-shaped ribs (3) which are arranged independently from one another, bridging side walls of the facer, the ribs protruding from a rear face of the facer (2) opposite the vehicle panel into the space (4) and arranged at substantially right angles with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Kaneka CorporationInventors: Nagayoshi Adachi, Tetsuo Mekata, Kazushi Nakatani, Miwa Ishii
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Patent number: 6481775Abstract: A vehicle interior trim piece includes a plurality of layers sandwiched together. A primary layer is preferably a vacuum formed ABS plastic material which is formed to directly conform to an exposed surface portion of a vehicle closure member. An outer surface layer is sandwiched to the primary layer and is the surface which is exposed after installation and as such is preferably of a color identical to the vehicle interior. Most preferably, the outer surface layer is a PVC film which is textured to have an appearance indistinguishable from the vehicle interior trim. The surface opposite the outer surface layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive layer which coats the inner surface of the primary layer. Because the trim piece is preformed to the shape of the exposed portion of the vehicle closure member the trim piece can be rapidly oriented in the correct installation position in an assembly line environment.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Kay Automotive GraphicsInventor: Karl Brocklehurst
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Publication number: 20020167187Abstract: The present invention involves a mounting fastener attachable to a panel member of a vehicle for retention of the panel member to a support structure. The mounting fastener comprises a base member having first and second opposing ends and is substantially planar for attachment to the panel member. The mounting fastener further comprises a biased member having first and second legs respectively extending from the first and second ends. The first and second legs merge together into a substantially parallel relationship at a head. The head has first and second wings respectively extending from the first and second legs toward the base member, wherein each wing has a flap which is twisted with respect to the wing and extends outwardly to a distal edge. The distal edge forms an acute angle with respect to the wing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2001Publication date: November 14, 2002Applicant: Patent Holding CompanyInventor: Jason T. Murar
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Patent number: 6474724Abstract: An impact energy absorbing arrangement is provided for a vehicle interior having a protuberance designed and configured as part of an interior surface covering a vehicle pillar and butting into a headliner surface. The protuberance is arranged so that if an occupant's head forcibly strikes the roof headliner directly above the pillar, the protuberance on the pillar surface would absorb at least a portion of the impact force as well as minimize potential rotation of the head about the occupant's neck by being positioned so as to contact a portion of the occupant's head at approximately the same time as contact would occur with the headliner.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Joseph G Lemmon, Rajkumar Rajagopalan, Jennifer A Head, Catherine Oddo-Long, Shawn R Williams
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Publication number: 20020153738Abstract: A multi-functional cargo bed liner assembly for a cargo bed of a vehicle includes a first and a second side wall disposed in a transversely spaced relationship, and an integrally formed guide track in the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly also includes an end wall extending therebetween the first and second side wall at a first end, and a floor extending therebetween the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly further includes a movable divider panel supported within the guide track by a support means, and extending transversely therebetween the first and second side walls, wherein the divider panel includes a positioning mechanism for fixedly locating the divider panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2002Publication date: October 24, 2002Applicant: PROJXInventors: Lowell Kiester, Douglas Street