Safety Means Responsive To Obstruction To Closure Patents (Class 49/26)
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Patent number: 8584809Abstract: In a safety device for an elevator, on one car door among a pair of car doors, a light-emitting/light-receiving unit is disposed facing downward at an upper end position of a vertical line separated by a predetermined distance from an end face in a closing direction, which is to abut the other car door, toward the side of the other car door, and a first reflecting member is disposed facing upward at a lower end position of the vertical line. A housing space that houses the light-emitting/light-receiving unit in a state where both car doors are closed is formed on the other car door, and a second reflecting member is disposed facing upward at a bottom portion of the housing space and extends from the same position as an end face in a closing direction of the other car door toward the back of the housing space.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Fujitec Co., Ltd.Inventors: Xiao Sun, Weifeng Chen, Kunpeng Yang, Hiroshi Kashiwakura, Takuya Fujii, Keishiro Hirohata
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Patent number: 8564227Abstract: In order to activate a control element (4) of a drive apparatus (1) for driving an object that can be moved between two end positions, the control element having a response delay (?tanspr) a parameter (Fakt) influenced by the drive apparatus (1) is monitored and compared with a specified threshold (FTh), upon the achievement of which a control signal is output to the control element (4); a pre-threshold (Fv) to be achieved before the achievement of the threshold (FTh) is defined, upon the achievement of which pre-threshold a pre-control signal is output to the control element (4) for the preparatory activation thereof, and afterwards further monitoring for the achievement of the actual threshold (FTh) is performed, wherein upon achievement of the actual threshold (FTh), the control element activation is retained, whereas if the actual threshold (FTh) is not achieved, the control element activation is rescinded.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbHInventor: Christian Stöger
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Patent number: 8510990Abstract: A presence detector for a door assembly which includes a door closing a door entrance is described herein. The detector includes a transducer assembly mounted to the door assembly for emitting at least one ultrasound detecting beam adjacent the door entrance and for triggering a detecting signal indicative of a body located adjacent the door entrance when the body intersects the at least one ultrasound detecting beam and a controller for receiving information indicative of a position of the door and for controlling the emission of the at least one detecting beam accordingly with the position of the door. The detector assembly operates in crossing, ranging or dual modes.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Sensotech Inc.Inventors: Uri Agam, Pino Marcovecchio
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Publication number: 20130152472Abstract: A weatherstrip such as a glass run incorporates an associated anti-entrapment sensor. The glass run includes an elastomeric material having first and second legs interconnected by a base wall that together receive an associated automotive window peripheral edge and a recess formed in the elastomeric material dimensioned to receive the associated anti-entrapment sensor therein. The recess has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional cavity in one embodiment and the pinch sensor has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional conformation dimensioned for mating receipt in the T-shaped cavity. Facing, first and second flexible sidewall portions flex for ease of insertion and retention of the pinch sensor in the cavity. A fusible layer secures the weatherstrip and pinch sensor after assembly thereof. Preferably, the weatherstrip is formed from multiple materials, one of which is a low friction material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2013Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: COOPER-STANDARD AUTOMOTIVE, INC.Inventors: John Zimmer, Eric Drozd, Sean Scott
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Publication number: 20130139440Abstract: An operating system and method for a vehicle having an automatically closing hatch, includes an operating switch, a programmable electronic controller, and a device for monitoring the hatch opening when the hatch is open. The operating switch generates an operating request signal for closing the hatch when the switch is actuated, the signal being an input signal to the controller. The monitoring device is a light barrier device having at least one light-emitting actuator and at least one light-detecting sensor arranged at the edge region of the hatch opening and also connected to the controller by electrical cables. The controller is programmed such that, when the operating request signal is present and the hatch is open, the controller outputs a pivot command to a closing system for closing the hatch only if the presence of an obstacle is not detected by the monitoring device for the hatch opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2013Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
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Patent number: 8457831Abstract: A safety locking system is provided to detect an open fault or a ground fault condition. The safety locking system includes a central processing unit with an input and an output, and a safety switch electrically connected to the input of the central processing unit. The input receives a low signal when the safety switch is in an enabled state and a pulsed signal when the safety switch is in a disabled state. The central processing unit detects an open fault condition when the input receives a high signal for a time period greater than a threshold time period, and a ground fault condition when the input receives the low signal and the safety switch operates as if the safety switch is in the disabled state.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mike Oakley, Scott Whitten
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Publication number: 20130125468Abstract: An apparatus automatically closes and opens a door in a frame. The door is controlled by a controller providing a safety mode for retaining the door in an open state and, if need be, a door reopening mode if an obstacle blocks the closure of the door. A camera having a vision axis intersecting a plane of the frame, provides an image of a space divided by the plane of the frame. An image analysis unit isolates the regions of interest of an obstacle in the space. A calculator extracts a geometrical characteristic of each region of interest, for classifying the same into a closest category of different safety scenarios of known characteristics, and for outputting, to the controller, a safety signal which activates the safety mode and which is dependent on the evaluation of a safety alarm value calculated by a formula, in accordance with the category.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2010Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: SIEMENS S.A.S.Inventors: Said El Fassi, Clara Nogueira Alves
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Publication number: 20130125467Abstract: An obstacle detection system includes a first component and a second component. The motor is configured to move the second component toward the first component. Radio frequency identification tags (RFIDs) are connected to one of the first component and the second component. A controller is operatively connected to the motor and has a transmitter operatively connected to the other of the first component and the second component. The transmitter is operable to create a magnetic field between the first component and the second component. Each of the RFIDs is operable to provide a respective signal in response to the field. The controller is configured to modify power delivery from a power source to the motor when the respective signals received by a receiver change due to at least a portion of the magnetic field being at least partially blocked or attenuated. A method of detecting an obstacle is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Hesham A. Ezzat, James C. O'Kane, Pei-Chung Wang, Doru N. Serban, Bradley W. Jewell
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Patent number: 8439425Abstract: A sensor housing which may be used to house a pinch sensor may include: a first portion having a sensor attaching surface and a first connecting member; a second portion that at least partially covers the sensor attaching surface and that has a second connecting member; and, an installation surface that can be used to install the sensor housing onto a vehicle. The second portion may be adjustable with respect to the first portion between: (1) a first condition where the second portion at least partially uncovers the sensor attaching surface and where a sensor can be attached to the sensor attaching surface; and, (2) a second condition where the second portion at least partially covers the sensor and where the second connecting member can be connected to the first connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Steven Ray Thiele, Jeremy Brandon Josefovsky
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Publication number: 20130091768Abstract: A door control apparatus and methods for controlling a door motion device for a hinged door and, optionally, illuminating a designated area on the floor. During the time the designated area is illuminated, a person can expect that the door will not close. The door control apparatus may include control circuitry, and a sensor, and optionally a light emitter and/or a sound emitter. The sensor detects a person proximate to the door and signals the control circuitry upon a detection event. The light emitter is also connected to the control circuitry. Upon a detection event, the control circuitry signals the light emitter to produce light and signals the door motion device to hold the door open. The light emitter directs light to form an image on the floor in the designated area. The light emitter may be, for example, a laser generator or a light emitting diode lamp.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2011Publication date: April 18, 2013Applicant: YALE SECURITY INC.Inventors: Blue Houser, Tommy McNally, Michael Webb, Max Smith, Asa Christiander
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Patent number: 8416056Abstract: The present invention relates to an entrance barrier comprising a barrier element movable between an open and a closed position, driving means, by which the barrier element can driven from one position to the other position respectively, a control unit, by which the driving means are controllable, and a sensor unit connected to the control unit. The invention also relates to a barrier element for the entrance barrier and to method for operating the entrance barrier. To provide a possibility of further improving the safety of persons in the area of entrance barriers beyond the mere passive safety of the entrance barrier, the invention proposes for the sensor unit to include a capacitive sensor.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Scheidt & Bachmann GmbHInventors: Norbert Miller, Peter Höffges
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Publication number: 20130061523Abstract: An actuator system for use in selectively engaging an input to an output. The actuator system includes an input sub-system having an input component configured to connect to an input element which is in turn connected to a work source. The actuator system also includes an output sub-system being connectable to the input sub-system for receiving work from the work source via the input sub-system. The actuator system further includes an actuator sub-system having an active material and an actuating component. The actuator sub-system is configured so that the active material, when activated, causes the actuating component to move from a first state to a second state to disengage the input and output sub-systems. In another embodiment, the present technology includes a pinch-protection system that determines whether a present value for a work-source physical characteristic exceeds a running average by at least a preset offset value.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicants: DYNALLOY, INC., GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: NILESH D. MANKAME, JAMES HOLBROOK BROWN, ARAGORN ZOLNO, JAMES M. LOMBARDI, CRESCENZIO PELINO, DANIEL BLAIR
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Publication number: 20130042530Abstract: A obstruction beam protection system for sensing an object in the path of the door during closing of the door by a door operator and for inhibiting operation for closing of the door. The beam protection system comprises a beam transmitter and beam receiver for positioning proximate to a passageway to be closed by the door, so as, when in use, to project a beam from the beam transmitter across the passageway to be receivable by the beam receiver. The beam transmitter and the beam receiver are provided with a local communication system for communication with an operator communication system associated with the operator. The beam transmitter and the beam receiver are both adapted to operate in a low power sleep state and a wake state.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: SMART OPENERS PTY LTDInventors: Jack Leivenzon, Paul Salter, Glenn Edward Fleming
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Patent number: 8359790Abstract: A multi doorlock includes a doorlock unit (200) installed to a hinged door (100), a non-powered DC motor (300) installed to the doorlock unit, and links (400) (410) having one ends connected to the DC motor and the other ends installed to a doorframe, the links being folded or unfolded with each other when the hinged door is closed or opened. The doorlock unit (200) frequently changes a braking resistance of the DC motor (300) while the hinged door (100) is opened or closed, thereby controlling an opening/closing speed of the hinged door. A relay switch (700) is connected to both ends of a power line (330) of the DC motor (300) to short the DC motor on occasions. When it is intended to fix the hinged door (100), the relay switch (700) is operated to short the DC motor (300) such that the hinged door is not moved.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Inventor: Jeong-Hun Shin
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Patent number: 8341885Abstract: System for controlling a door enabling driving from an initial position of its travel in a first direction at a speed v1 as far as a final position, said control system comprising a safety function comprising means for keeping a door in operation despite its having suffered an impact against an obstacle situated on its travel and enabling it to continue its initial movement automatically as soon as said obstacle is removed, through a design reconciling a sufficiently high normal speed of movement v1 of the door with the intention to prevent damage both to the obstacle and to the door by reducing the speed to v3<v1 close to the stored position of the impact.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2010Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Dynaco EuropeInventor: Frédéric Bostyn
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Publication number: 20120324791Abstract: A system and method for detecting an object or obstruction in the path of a moveable barrier or automatic gate and allowing a coupled controller to determine corrective action prior to the moveable barrier coming in physical contact with such object or obstruction. A plurality of sensors in a physical array is used to detect such objects in the path of a barrier as it moves from closed to open and vice versa. The output of each respective sensor is compared to all of the others. In the preferred embodiment, if all of the sensor outputs are the same, it is assumed that there is no obstruction. However, if the output of any one sensor differs from the output of another sensor, it is assumed that there is an obstruction and the gate is either stopped or reversed before contact is made.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Inventors: Alex Parsadayan, Wayne C. Hom
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Patent number: 8333035Abstract: An assembly (20) for controlling movement of an automatically moveable door panel (22) includes sensors (30, 50) such as microswitches positioned on at least one of a door panel (22) or a door frame member (26). The sensors provide an indication of different levels of relative movement between the door panel and the door frame member at an interface (28) between them. Such relative movement includes an increase in a gap between them that corresponds to a situation when an object is at the interface (28) and may be caught. The sensors (30, 50) respectively provide an indication of when an object may become caught and when one has. Automated movement of a door is controlled responsive to an indication of the presence of an object in a location where the object may become caught during automatic movement of the door.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Otis Elevator CompanyInventors: Tadaaki Nabetani, Jiro Kashima, Atsushi Yamada
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Patent number: 8278862Abstract: Motor control systems comprise a motor control circuit, a processing circuit operably coupled to the motor control circuit, and a current sensor operably coupled to the processing circuit. The current sensor may be configured to sense a current and to convey a signal to the processing circuitry proportional to an amount of current sensed. The processing circuitry may be configured to sample the signal to obtain a plurality of current values, to store the plurality of current values and to generate an operation profile from the plurality of current values. Folding partitions comprising motor control systems are also disclosed, as well as methods of monitoring an operation of an electric motor and of monitoring for an obstruction of a folding partition.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Won-Door CorporationInventors: W. Michael Coleman, Duane O. Hall, E. Carl Goodman, Michael D. George, D. George Field
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Publication number: 20120180391Abstract: A controller for a door system and an associated method of operation for actuating a door. The controller may be electrically coupled with a motor, an outer door switch and an inner door switch. The controller, activates a motor assist and may maintain a desirable current supply to the motor assist. Determining a relative position of the door and determining whether movement of the door is obstructed is performed. The controller actuates the door to an appropriate position and determines whether door operation exceeds a maximum time threshold. The controller may be configured to deactivate the motor assist once the door reaches an appropriate position or the door operation exceeds the maximum time threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2008Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: CONTROL SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Michael McKee, Nick Scholtes, John Hayden
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Publication number: 20120174483Abstract: A method of powering an obstruction detector. Power is provided to an obstruction detector when a motor is executing a first movement and is suppressed to the obstruction detector when the motor is idle and when the motor is executing a second movement. The first movement moves a movable barrier towards a closed position, and the second movement moves the barrier towards an open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2011Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: LINEAR LLCInventors: Steven A. Harlow, Paul D. Kahn, Mark C. Mattson
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Publication number: 20120159849Abstract: A rotating entrance assembly is provided, the rotating entrance assembly including a rotating base, a motor in driving connection with the rotating base, and first and second shielding components that are arranged on the rotating base. A passageway is defined between the first and second shielding components.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: VERITAS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS LLCInventor: David P. Farrell
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Patent number: 8198849Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for protection against jamming in a motor-driven locking system and a device for the execution of the method.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Hubert Lamm
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Patent number: 8191311Abstract: An opening and closing apparatus having an opening and closing body, a drive portion, a control portion, and a detecting device is disclosed. The detecting device has a sensor portion for detecting the capacitance between the sensor portion and an object that is in the proximity of the sensor portion or is contacting the sensor portion. The detecting device detects that the object is in the proximity of the sensor portion or is contacting the sensor portion based on the capacitance detected by the sensor portion. If the detecting device detects contact of the object with the sensor portion when the opening and closing body is not being moved, the control portion controls the drive portion to start opening the opening and closing body. If the detecting device detects that the object is in the proximity of the sensor portion when the opening and closing body is being closed, the control portion controls the drive portion to stop or reverse the movement of the opening and closing body.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Asmo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ryousuke Sakamaki, Takahiro Iida
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Patent number: 8089237Abstract: A method for controlling an opening leaf of a vehicle. The method detects whether a predetermined event is occurring in the absence of a predetermined situation likenable to a trapping incident and, if appropriate, lowers a function of detecting the situation likenable to a trapping incident.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Renault S.A.S.Inventors: Eric Bernhard, Hoang-Giang Nguyen, Laurent Piloy
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Patent number: 8069611Abstract: A sensor assembly and method includes a window regular mechanism having a main lift arm supporting the pane and a drive mechanism. The main lift arm includes a sector gear plate that is drivingly rotated by the drive mechanism. A slot defined in the sector gear plate receives a guide of a sensor mechanism. The guide is moved along the slot as the sector gear plate is rotated such that the guide is moved into a first portion of the slot when the sector gear plate is driven in a first rotatable direction to move the window pane toward its closed position and moved into a second portion of the slot when the sector gear plate is driven in a second, opposite rotatable direction to move the window pane toward its open position.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenichi Kitayama
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Patent number: 8067915Abstract: An appliance, such as a refrigerator, includes a drawer mounted within a cabinet for movement between an opened position and a closed position. A driving mechanism, including an electric motor connects to the drawer for driving the drawer between the opened position and the closed position. A control circuit connected to the electric motor and the transmission assembly of the driving mechanism commands the transmission assembly to connect or disconnect the electric motor and the drawer, and further commands the electric motor to drive the drawer to one of the opened position and the closed position when the electric motor is connected to the drawer. The control circuit also senses obstructions and adjusts the movement of the drawer accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: John K. Hooker, Konstantin Grigoryan, Arti Shah
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Publication number: 20110265381Abstract: The invention relates to a method for activating a jamming protection function in an electrical closing system, wherein the jamming protection function is designed to abort a movement of a closing part in a movement direction if it is detected that the movement of the closing part (2) is obstructed by a jammed object, comprising the following steps:-providing consecutively measured values of a motor variable (Imot) of a motor (6) that effect the movement of the closing part, wherein the motor variable (Imot) gives an indication of a drive torque provided by the motor (6);-determining a gradient curve from the consecutively measured values of the motor variable (Imot), wherein the gradient curve is established using a derivative method that provides for a weighting of the individual consecutively measured values of the motor variable (Imot) according to the measurement sequence thereof;-establishing a point in time for activating the jamming protection function according to the determined gradient curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2009Publication date: November 3, 2011Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventor: Pablo Luis Guarnizo
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Patent number: 8032285Abstract: A device with a memory function for detecting closure of vehicle doors and the method thereof is disclosed. Before a vehicle door is open, a detecting signal near the outer side of the door is emitted and its detection status is recorded. When the vehicle door is to be closed, a first detecting signal is emitted from the door frame top downwards and a second detecting signal is emitted near the outer side of the door. If the first detecting signal indicates that a person is at the door or the second detecting signal indicates that a person exists on the outer side of the door by comparison with a precious record, then the door is prohibited from being closed. Otherwise, the door can be closed. This automatic detection method can prevent the driver from accidentally hurt passengers by carelessly closing the doors.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Inventor: Shih-Hsiung Li
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Publication number: 20110196516Abstract: A safety system for a garage door movable along a door frame is used to detect an obstacle. The safety system includes a motor device for opening and closing the garage door, a control circuit for controlling the motor to open and close the door, a light emitting device for emitting a light, a light receiving device in communication with the control circuit for receiving the light, wherein the light emitting device and the light receiving device are to be mounted on one side of the door frame, and an optical reflecting device for mounting on the other side of the door frame opposite to the light emitting device and the light receiving device whereby the light receiving device will receive light emitted from the light emitting device and reflected by the optical reflecting device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: CHERVON (HK) LIMITEDInventors: Dezhong Yang, Wu Chen
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Patent number: 7977903Abstract: In an electrically powered door actuating system of a motor vehicle with a slide door, there is employed a control unit for controlling a door actuating device of the slide door.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.Inventor: Haruo Kamiya
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Publication number: 20110162279Abstract: An obstruction detection system using a safety switch with a plurality of sensors is provided. The sensors include a sensing element molded in a casing and separated from an adjacent sensor by one of a plurality of connectors. A clip has a strip portion and a first attachment arm extending at an angle from the strip portion. A second attachment arm extends from the strip portion. A barb leg is disposed at an angle relative to the strip portion. The barb leg has a first leg end and a second leg end opposite the first leg end with the barb leg connected at the first leg end to the second attachment arm and the second leg end is disposed toward and spaced apart from the strip portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Applicant: Control Solutions LLCInventors: Jorge Jimenez, Nick Scholtes, Robert C. Signaigo
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Patent number: 7958672Abstract: A conductive movable body opens and closes an opening portion formed in a conductive opening forming body. The movable body has a front edge portion positioned in a front side in the closing direction of the movable body. The opening portion has an opposed edge portion opposed to the front edge portion. The sensor is arranged in a layout body corresponding to one of the opening forming body and the movable body, and is arranged in one of the front edge portion and the opposed edge portion. The sensor is capable of detecting a conductive object-to-be-detected on the basis of a change of a capacitance between a sensor electrode and the object-to-be-detected coming close to the sensor electrode. A guard electrode is provided between the layout body and the sensor electrode. An electric potential of the guard electrode is kept equal to an electric potential of the sensor electrode or kept at a fixed rate with respect to the electric potential of the sensor electrode.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: ASMO Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hidenori Ishihara
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Patent number: 7946332Abstract: A gate includes a gate leaf which is movable between a closed and an open position, and a plurality of gate leaf elements, which are tiltable. The gate leaf includes a door leaf which is swingable around a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the tilt axes. When closed, the door leaf is mounted in an opening in the gate leaf and the door leaf extends essentially parallel to the plane of the gate leaf. A stabilizing arrangement opposes the deformation of the gate leaf and a threshold element which rests on the floor of the opening when the gate leaf is in the closed position. The height of the threshold element is essentially less than 20 mm, preferably less than 10 mm.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Hormann KG BrockhagenInventors: Thomas J. Hörmann, Michael Brinkmann
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Publication number: 20110067307Abstract: A vertically operating door and its drive system can be configured to push a door panel along a track to various overhead storage configurations including vertical, horizontal, inclined and coiled. Semi-flexible drive strips extend continuously along lateral edges of the curtain. The system includes a drive gear that engages a series of projections on at least one drive strip so that the gear can push the door between its open and closed positions. To protect the door from being damaged by collisions, the track can include a breakaway feature that allows at least a portion of the panel with its drive strip to separate from the track without permanent distortion. The drive strip and panel remain together as they break away from the track. The threshold of the breakaway force can be changed by selecting a retention strip from a plurality of interchangeable strips having different degrees of flexibility.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: Jason Dondlinger, Carl Hardison, Tom Jansen, Peter S. Schulte
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Patent number: 7905543Abstract: A safety device in a closing-opening device of a vehicle which is provided with millimeter wave sensors as a detection device enables detecting an obstacle accurately for preventing a caught-in accident in advance caused by the closing-opening device.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2008Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshiyasu Ito
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Patent number: 7893831Abstract: An entrapment prevention sensor detecting an entrapment of an obstacle between an opening and closing door of a vehicle constituting a first member and including a corner portion and a periphery of a body opening portion constituting a second member, includes a protector including an assembly portion and a hollow portion, the assembly portion assembled onto a fitting flange provided at one of the first and second members, the assembly portion prevented from being provided at the corner portion, a sensor main body accommodated within the hollow portion, and a corner member provided at the corner portion and including a receiving portion and a fixed plate portion, the receiving portion having a hollow and curved shape corresponding to a shape of the corner portion and accommodating the sensor main body, the fixed plate portion including a clip bore and fixed to the fitting flange by means of a clip.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Nishikawa Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaru Hoshina, Hironori Koeda, Toshio Nakaike
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Patent number: 7887008Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bret L. Lamoree, Dennis C. Lin, Heidi J. Kneller
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Publication number: 20110005137Abstract: Technologies are described herein for detecting obstructions, utilizing an obstruction detection system. According to one aspect of the disclosure, the system includes a moveable assembly that includes a moveable structure moveable between a stowed and operational configuration and has a leading surface facing a direction of movement when the moveable structure is moving between the stowed and operational configurations. A protective panel is attached to the moveable structure and has an outer surface separated from the leading surface by an over-travel distance. A proximity sensor detects a displacement of the protective panel towards the leading surface. A control module is responsive to at least one proximity sensor, such that when the proximity sensor detects the displacement of the protective panel towards the leading surface of the moveable structure so as to shorten the over-travel distance, the control module stops the movement of the moveable assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventors: Kevin S. Callahan, Jeffrey Dean Farnsworth
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Patent number: 7859204Abstract: A controller prestores average moving speed data, which corresponds to respective corresponding positions of a window glass of a door driven by a motor at the time of the closing movement of the window glass, as learning data. The controller senses pinching of an object by the window glass based on the learning data and the speed measurement signal obtained at the time of the closing movement of the window glass. The controller senses a disturbance when the speed measurement signal obtained at the time of the closing movement of the window glass exceeds a predetermined value. The controller updates the learning data based on the average moving speed data at the time of the closing movement of the window glass. The controller controls execution and non-execution of updating of the learning data in response to a close state and an open state of the door.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Asmo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shin Sakai, Takahiro Sumiya
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Publication number: 20100315229Abstract: A multi doorlock includes a doorlock unit (200) installed to a hinged door (100), a non-powered DC motor (300) installed to the doorlock unit, and links (400) (410) having one ends connected to the DC motor and the other ends installed to a doorframe, the links being folded or unfolded with each other when the hinged door is closed or opened. The doorlock unit (200) frequently changes a braking resistance of the DC motor (300) while the hinged door (100) is opened or closed, thereby controlling an opening/closing speed of the hinged door. A relay switch (700) is connected to both ends of a power line (330) of the DC motor (300) to short the DC motor on occasions. When it is intended to fix the hinged door (100), the relay switch (700) is operated to short the DC motor (300) such that the hinged door is not moved.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventor: Jeong-Hun Shin
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Patent number: 7845115Abstract: An access control apparatus has a blocking device (1) that is actuated by an actuator, and an authentication reader (7), upon reading a valid access authorization the blocking device (1) moving into the release position. For detecting a wheel chair (15) and/or pram in the area of the blocking device (1) a sensor (13) is provided, which does not activate the actuator for moving the blocking device (1) from the release position into the blocking position until the wheel chair (15) or pram has left its detection area.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Skidata AGInventors: Gregor Ponert, Kurt Wallerstorfer
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Publication number: 20100287837Abstract: An anti-pinching device (18) for a pivotable actuating element (6) of a motor vehicle (2) is specified. Said device comprises a capacitive sensor (8) which is intended to contactlessly detect an obstacle in the path of the actuating element (6) and has an electrode (14) for generating an external electric field opposite a counterelectrode (16), wherein the electrode (14) extends in a radial direction (R) of the pivoting movement of the actuating element (6), and a control unit (10) which is set up to interpret a change in a measurement capacitance (CM), which is formed between the electrode (14) and the counterelectrode (16), as pinching when the changed measurement capacitance (CM) exceeds a triggering threshold (A) which is predefined on the basis of an opening angle (?) of the pivotable actuating element (6) and to track the triggering threshold (A).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2007Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventors: Holger Wuerstlein, Thomas Weingaertner, Wolf-Christian Mueller
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Patent number: 7821418Abstract: This invention relates to a safety system comprising an elongate signal carrying device having a first end and a second end. At least a part of the elongate signal carrying device is selectively manipulable at a manipulation point to generate a measurable non-electric signal that can be carried by the signal carrying device. The safety system further comprises an output device for causing an audible or visible alarm signal or an electric signal to be outputted in response to the non-electric signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2007Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Cronapress LimitedInventors: Ian Parker, Ken Naylor, Fred Keery, Christopher M Butler
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Patent number: 7814704Abstract: A method for controlling a power slide door having an operable window for a vehicle for preventing an entrapment between the power slide door and a vehicle body by limiting a slidable range of the power slide door by portion of a stopper, which the stopper functions in a condition where the window is opened more than or equal to a certain range, the method comprising steps of judging if the entrapment is generated within a predetermined range in which the power slide door can be stopped by portion of the stopper in a condition where the entrapment with a foreign object is generated during an opening operation of the power slide door, performing a reverse operation of the power slide door in a closing direction by a certain distance in a condition where the entrapment is generated within the predetermined range, and stopping the power slide door.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shintaro Suzuki, Eiji Itami, Masahiko Ito, Masayuki Nomura
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Publication number: 20100257784Abstract: A movable barrier operator system wherein one or more of the various components of the system is configured to operate selectively in at least either of two operational modes. Each operating mode is characterized by a corresponding energy usage profile. The operational status of the system is monitored and operating modes are selected that serve both to substantially ensure proper operation given current likely operational expectations and an overall desire to reduce energy consumption.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Applicant: THE CHAMBERLAIN GROUP, INC.Inventor: James J. Fitzgibbon
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Patent number: 7812721Abstract: A sensor protector adapted to be attached to either a body or a door of a vehicle includes a hollow portion for accommodating a touch sensor for sensing whether or not an object exists between the body and the door of the vehicle, an attaching base portion formed as a unit with the hollow portion and including a core material embedded therein, a recessed portion provided at the attaching base portion having a rectangular shape formed by cutting out the attaching base portion, plural block-shaped cover portions formed contiguously with respective cut surfaces of the attaching base portion for covering the respective cut surfaces, and mating plates provided at two cover portions formed contiguously with respective visible front walls of the attaching base portion, the mating plates having facing mating edges which mate together when the sensor protector is bent.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Nishikawa Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaru Hoshina, Hironori Koeda, Dalsuke Kudo, Youji Orimoto
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Patent number: 7797881Abstract: A garage door control system for a garage door that is adapted to be lifted by a garage door opener. The system has a motion sensor or electric eye sensor located at least in part proximate the garage door, for sensing an object located on top of a vehicle approaching the garage and projecting higher than is safe to enter the garage, and a cutoff switch that at least temporarily prevents the garage door opener from opening the garage door when the sensor senses an object located on top of a vehicle approaching the garage and projecting higher than is safe to enter the garage.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Joel S. Loitherstein
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Patent number: 7782001Abstract: A method for control of door and window adjusting parameters is disclosed, the method including the steps: determining at least a first door adjusting parameter and at least a first window adjusting parameter, controlling the first door adjusting parameter and a further door adjusting parameter by considering the determined first window adjusting parameter and controlling the first window adjusting parameter and a further window adjusting parameter by considering the determined first door adjusting parameter. The above steps may also be performed in the alternative. An interaction between the two moveable elements sliding door and window pane is assured. The control of further parameters can occur in dependence from the determined parameters in such way that the risk of arising injuries and in particular damages by a crush incident between a C column of the motor vehicle and the sliding door at a window opening of the sliding door is minimized.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugtelle GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft CoburgInventors: Arnd Herwig, Olaf Kriese, Stefan Franek
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Patent number: 7771080Abstract: An edge device for an elevator door includes an elongate array of infrared transmitters and/or receivers and a proximate elongate array of illuminable elements, both arrays extending for a substantial part of the length of the door. The illuminable elements are adapted to be illuminated when the door is in motion. The two arrays are disposed in a common carrier structure, being either vertically interleaved or extending vertically in parallel with each other.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2004Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Memco LimitedInventor: Terence Christopher Platt
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Patent number: RE41674Abstract: A first area (16) for detecting an object is formed by a radio wave or an ultrasonic wave, and a second area (18) for detecting an object by means of light is formed near the first area (16). When an object is detected in the first area (16) approaching the second area (18), the second area (18) is enabled. When an object is detected in the first area (16) moving in the direction away from the second area (18), the second area (18) is disabled.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2009Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Nabtesco CorporationInventors: Shigeaki Sasaki, Kenji Nishigaki, Yasutaka Kanda