VOLVO CAR CORPORATION Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150161505 | Method of Programming a Neural Network Computer - A method is disclosed for programming a target neural network computer for use in cognitive computing systems in automotive safety applications. An observer neural network computer is integrated into active safety systems of a plurality of vehicles to observe signals. Each respective observer neural network computer is arranged to observe signals from a forward facing camera and signals from a driver action monitor of its respective vehicle, to process the observed signals from the forward facing camera of its respective vehicle and correlate them with the observed signals from the driver action monitor of its respective vehicle. The correlated signals from the plurality of observer neural network computers are combined, and the target neural network computer is programmed for use in cognitive computing systems in automotive safety applications based on said combined correlated signals. | 06-11-2015 |
20150012826 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING INFOTAINMENT FUNCTIONALITY - An infotainment management system is disclosed for managing infotainment functionality of an infotainment system of a vehicle to which a nomadic device is connected. The management system may display, on a touch sensitive display associated with the infotainment system, category user-interface objects associated with respective infotainment functionality categories. The management system may further displays, on the touch sensitive display, while a category objects is displayed, a user-interface object linking to a user application program hosted on the nomadic device, which user application program is supported by the infotainment system. Objects such as interactive icons linking to user application programs which are installed on the nomadic device and may be invoked by the linking objects, may be displayed on the in-vehicle touch sensitive display simultaneously with category objects, such as interactive virtual buttons, relating to other infotainment functionality such as in-vehicle navigation, music and/or telephony functionality. | 01-08-2015 |
20140367488 | WINDSCREEN WASHER - A window and/or lamp washer system for a vehicle comprising a washer fluid container, a washer fluid pump arranged in fluid communication with the washer fluid container, at least one washer fluid pressure tank for storing pressurized fluid, arranged in fluid communication with the washer fluid pump, and comprising a fluid inlet for receiving pressurized fluid from the pump and at least one fluid outlet for providing pressurized fluid in the form of a washer fluid jet, sensor means arranged to provide a signal representing the measured pressure within the at least one washer fluid pressure tank, a control unit connected to the sensor means and the washer fluid pump, and arranged to receive the signal, wherein the control unit is configured to operate the washer fluid pump based on the signal, whereby a signal representing a value below a predetermined level cause the pump to increase the pressure. | 12-18-2014 |
20140354295 | LOOSE PLUG DETECTION - According to the disclosure there is provided a method for characterizing an electrical connection between an energy storage device of an electrical or hybrid vehicle and an external power supply. The method may include, in the vehicle, receiving an alternating waveform from the power supply, determining a fundamental frequency of the waveform, determining if the waveform is distorted, and, if it is determined that the waveform is distorted, determining if the distortion is an indication of a loose connection between the vehicle and the power supply. There is further provided a charging system for characterizing an electrical connection between an energy storage device of an electrical or hybrid vehicle and an external power supply. | 12-04-2014 |
20140350796 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE FOR REVERSIBLE SEAT BELT RETRACTION - A method performed by a retraction control system of a vehicle for controlling refraction of a seat belt of a reversible seat belt refractor arrangement for a vehicle occupant is provided. The control system determines fulfillment of an activation condition based on an initiating input derived from a vehicle situation sensing system, which initiating input indicates that the vehicle, at an initiating time instant, is considered likely to be, or is about to become, involved in a hazardous situation and/or uncomfortable dynamic situation. The control system generates an activation signal utilizable for initiation of retraction of the seat belt. If the control system determines absence of fulfillment of a confirming condition within a predetermined confirming time period, and/or if the control system determines fulfillment of an abort condition within a predetermined abort time period, the control system generates a deactivation signal utilizable for aborting the initiation. | 11-27-2014 |
20140350790 | VEHICLE SAFETY ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD - Embodiments herein relate to a vehicle safety arrangement and method for preventing or mitigating accidents when turning across lanes with oncoming traffic in a vehicle including an Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPAS). Oncoming traffic in one or more adjacent lanes and other vehicles approaching from behind are detected by forward and rearward looking detection systems respectively. An intention to turn across an adjacent lane is determined. Standstill of the host vehicle is determined. A control unit is arranged to, during determined standstill and a determined intention to turn across a lane containing oncoming traffic, determine if a risk of the host vehicle being hit from behind is high, and if so determined, generate and send a control signal to an EPAS control unit, which, in response to receiving such a control signal, is arranged to cause the EPAS to align the steerable wheels of the host vehicle. | 11-27-2014 |
20140347209 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A POSITION OF A LIVING BEING IN A VEHICLE - A system for determining a position of a living being in a vehicle interior includes at least three components, each component of a first type or a second type, one of the first or second type being a transmitter and the other a receiver. Two components are of the first type and one component is of the second type. Each component is adapted to transmit or receive a signal dependent on type. The signal is adapted for determining a presence of the living being and for determining a distance (d | 11-27-2014 |
20140334946 | LEAKAGE DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FUEL TANK SYSTEMS - A method for detecting a leakage in a fuel tank system includes setting a first reference pressure value and generating an initial pressure in the fuel tank system, as well as determining a pressure difference between the pressure in the fuel tank system and the first reference pressure. The method also includes determining a linearity metric by comparing the determined pressure difference to at least one out of a linear and a non-linear data model, the linearity metric quantifying the non-linearity of said pressure difference as a function of time, and detecting a leakage in the fuel tank system based on the linearity metric, where a non-linear pressure difference function of time is indicative of a leakage in the fuel tank system. | 11-13-2014 |
20140327272 | METHOD FOR CREATING A HARDENED STEEL ASSEMBLY - A method of creating a hardened steel assembly from at least two parts may include the consecutive steps of first joining the at least two parts in a cold formed state to form an assembly, and then hardening the joined assembly. | 11-06-2014 |
20140312653 | BONNET ARRANGEMENT - The present disclosure relates to a bonnet arrangement for a vehicle, the bonnet arrangement including a bonnet and a hinge arrangement, which is adapted to be attached to the bonnet. The hinge arrangement is arranged to permit pivotal displacement of the bonnet relative to the vehicle around a first pivot axis located in the hinge arrangement. The bonnet arrangement further includes a passive energy absorbing member positioned and arranged so as to absorb impact energy from an impact occurring at the bonnet in a region above the hinge arrangement. The energy absorbing member may be adapted to be attached to the bonnet and/or to the hinge arrangement. | 10-23-2014 |
20140309861 | HUMAN MACHINE INTERFACE - A method of customizing the interface of an infotainment system may include receiving a user profile from a multimedia device, a local store of the infotainment system, or cloud storage, and customizing the interface of the infotainment system based on the received user profile. A system for customising the interface of an infotainment system may include a receiving module configured for receiving a user profile from a multimedia device, a local store of the infotainment system, or a cloud storage, wherein the multimedia device is connectable to the infotainment system, and a customizing module configured for customizing the interface of the infotainment system based on the received user profile. | 10-16-2014 |
20140305626 | CALCULATION OF FLOW IN AN AIR SYSTEM - A method is provided for determining an air flow in a vehicle air conditioning system that comprises an inlet; a plurality of outlets; at least one air duct for guiding air from the inlet to the outlets, each air duct being characterized by a predetermined flow resistance coefficient; at least one flap characterized by a flow resistance based on a degree of opening of the flap; and a fan for creating an air flow from the inlet to an outlet. The method comprises determining a total equivalent flow resistance between a predetermined location in the system and an interior of the vehicle, wherein flow resistances are treated as resistances in an electric circuit, and a total equivalent flow resistance is determined. Treating a pressure drop as equivalent with a voltage drop, the air flow can be determined, as the pressure is equal to the resistance times the flow squared. | 10-16-2014 |
20140305415 | COMBUSTION CONTROL FOR COMBUSTION ENGINES - An arrangement for control of an engine, the arrangement having a super-charger adapted to be disposed between an air intake and an inlet manifold of the engine, the super-charger device being adapted to boost the pressure of the intake air to the engine. The arrangement also has an exhaust gas recirculation, EGR, system, and a super-charger bypass conduit arranged to facilitate a variable bypassing of the super-charger device, the EGR flow level to be controlled such that the effect of the EGR system on the combustion process of the engine can be continuously varied. The arrangement is further adapted to sense a boost pressure level and an inlet temperature level of the inlet air at the inlet manifold of the engine, and to adjust said super-charger bypass and EGR level in order to reach a pre-determined inlet temperature and boost pressure level, thus facilitating control of the combustion process. | 10-16-2014 |
20140291964 | VEHICLE TOWING DEVICE, VEHICLE STRUCTURAL MEMBER AND VEHICLE COMPRISING A VEHICLE STRUCTURAL MEMBER - A vehicle towing device with a first extremity comprising a towing member, a second extremity comprising an attachment arrangement, and an elongated part extending there between is provided. The elongated part comprises a first portion and a second portion. The second portion has a conical outer contact surface extending peripherally from the first portion towards the attachment arrangement. The conical contact surface has a first cone radius at an end of the second portion facing the first portion, and a second cone radius at an end of the second portion facing the attachment arrangement. The first cone radius is larger than the second cone radius, and a longitudinal extension of the second portion exceeds the second cone radius. | 10-02-2014 |
20140284124 | VEHICLE COMPONENT COMPRISING SANDWICH STRUCTURE - A vehicle component may include a sandwich structure having a first supporting sheet, a second supporting sheet, and an essentially planar electro-chemical battery. The essentially planar electro-chemical battery may be arranged between, and abutting against, the first and the second supporting sheets. | 09-25-2014 |
20140236461 | METHOD AND START ASSISTING SYSTEM FOR FACILITATING START ACTIVITIES OF A VEHICLE - The present disclosure relates to a start assisting system and a method performed by a start assisting system for facilitating start activities preceding start of an engine of a vehicle. The start assisting system determines whether predetermined pre-start conditions are fulfilled, which pre-start conditions comprise a condition associated with a wireless electronic key related to the vehicle being identified to be present. The start assisting system furthermore detects a start intention activity of a user of the vehicle by means of a detecting device adapted to be comprised in a user driving manoeuvring device of the vehicle, which detecting device is adapted to detect a body part of the user being situated at the driving manoeuvring device thus indicating the start intention activity. Additionally, the start assisting system initiates start of the engine, should the pre-start conditions be determined to be fulfilled while the start intention activity is detected. | 08-21-2014 |
20140236408 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO PROVIDE ADAPTIVE OIL PRIMING FUNCTIONALITY - A method and a device are provided for operating a pre-lubrication system for an internal combustion engine of a hybrid electrical vehicle after vehicle start up, wherein the hybrid electrical vehicle also comprises. The electric engine is turned on at vehicle start up and the internal combustion engine is turned on at vehicle start up or after a period of time after vehicle start up. The pre-lubrication system comprises an engine control function for controlling the internal combustion engine, monitoring the torque requested by a driver and storing information regarding when the driver requests torque equal to or higher than a predetermined torque threshold. The cranking operation of the internal combustion engine, in order to build up oil pressure and fill the oil circuit with oil, is initiated based on the stored information or when the electrical hybrid vehicle reaches a predetermined vehicle speed threshold. | 08-21-2014 |
20140233023 | METHOD FOR CALIBRATING A SENSOR CLUSTER IN A MOTOR VEHICLE - A method is disclosed for calibrating a sensor cluster located at an inside of a windshield of a motor vehicle and arranged such that the pitch thereof is adjustable. The sensor cluster may include a narrow beam sensor and an imaging sensor, both of which are directed forward of the motor vehicle. An angle gamma (γ) between center directions of the narrow beam sensor and the imaging sensor has been pre-calibrated and stored in at least one memory unit. The method may include calibrating at least one of the narrow beam sensor and the imaging sensor with respect to a geometrical travel axis of the vehicle, recording a measure epsilon (ε) corresponding to an angle between the center direction of the imaging sensor and a reference provided by a fixed vehicle structural part, and storing the recorded measure epsilon (ε) in the at least one memory unit. | 08-21-2014 |
20140230959 | VEHICLE FLUID FILLING ARRANGEMENT, AN ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SUCH A FILLING ARRANGEMENT AND A VEHICLE WITH SUCH A FILLING ARRANGEMENT - A vehicle fluid filling arrangement comprises a fluid receiving part and a fluid conveying arrangement adapted to convey a vehicle fluid supplied on the fluid receiving part into a fluid reservoir of a vehicle. The fluid receiving part comprises a fluid receiving surface which is adapted to directly receive the supplied fluid and to direct the fluid to the fluid conveying arrangement, wherein the fluid receiving part has a first retracted position where supply of fluid on the fluid receiving surface is not possible and a second extracted position where supply of fluid on the fluid receiving surface is possible. The disclosure also relates to an assembly for filling vehicle fluid comprising at least two of said fluid filling arrangements and also to a vehicle comprising said fluid filling arrangement. | 08-21-2014 |
20140219852 | HYDRAULIC DEVICE - A hydraulic device ( | 08-07-2014 |
20140218268 | VEHICLE HEAD-UP DISPLAY ARRANGEMENT - A vehicle head-up display arrangement is provided that may include a projection unit, a vehicle driver eye position estimation unit and a detecting unit arranged to detect traffic signs and their location in relation to the vehicle, and a processing unit arranged to determine a content of the traffic signs. The processing unit is further arranged to determine relevance of content of the traffic signs. The projection unit is arranged to project light onto one or more areas of the windshield in line with the estimated eye position of the vehicle driver and traffic signs determined to have content not being relevant, such that these traffic signs, at least partially, are covered from the estimated eye position of the vehicle driver. | 08-07-2014 |
20140214301 | METHOD AND USER INTERFACE SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE FOR PROVIDING AN ENERGY LEVEL GAUGE RELATIVE TO A VEHICLE RANGE METER - A method is provided for graphic visualization of a propulsion energy level gauge relative to a vehicle range meter. A user interface system determines a current range of the vehicle based on a current remaining propulsion energy level of an energy storage device of the vehicle, and determines at least one hypothetical range of the vehicle based on at least one hypothetical level of remaining propulsion energy of the energy storage device. The graphic visualization is provided on a display, where the propulsion energy level gauge conveys the current remaining propulsion energy level and the hypothetical level of remaining propulsion energy, and the vehicle range meter conveys the current vehicle range and the hypothetical vehicle range. In the graphic visualization, the current remaining propulsion energy level is graphically associated with the current vehicle range, and the hypothetical level of remaining propulsion energy is graphically associated with the hypothetical vehicle range. | 07-31-2014 |
20140207471 | ARRANGEMENT FOR FACILITATING SELECTION AND ACTIVATION OF A VOICE CONTROL SYSTEM BY A VEHICLE OPERATOR - An arrangement is provided for facilitating selection and activation of a voice control system by a vehicle operator. The arrangement may include a switch selectively switchable between a first switch position (P | 07-24-2014 |
20140207364 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR DETERMINING A TRAJECTORY - A method and an arrangement are provided for determining a trajectory for a host vehicle H in order to as smoothly as possible avoid or mitigate a collision. The arrangement may include a processor and at least one of a sensor system or a communication system. The method may include identifying positions of one or more external objects in relation to the host vehicle H within a predefined distance, generating a plurality of trajectories that are valid for enabling the host vehicle H to pass any desired number of external objects, removing any trajectories intersecting with any one of the external objects, estimating lateral position, lateral velocity, lateral acceleration and the lateral jerk that will act on the host vehicle H driving along any one of the trajectories, and selecting the trajectory for which the lateral jerk acting on the host vehicle H is minimized. | 07-24-2014 |
20140207339 | MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD - Embodiments herein relate to a motor vehicle safety arrangement and method for positioning an occupant properly on a vehicle seat and restraining the occupant thus positioned in preparation of the vehicle potentially being subject to a rear-end collision. A safety belt is associated with the vehicle seat and an electric reversible safety belt retractor is associated with the safety belt. A rearward-looking detection system detects and classifies the collision risk for an approaching object. At least one sensor monitors one or more vehicle parameters. A control unit determines a driving state as critical or non-critical from the monitored vehicle parameters. The control unit controls the electric reversible safety belt retractor to apply a predetermined pullback force on the safety belt in response to the collision risk for an approaching object being classified as high within a predetermined time of an indicated critical driving state. | 07-24-2014 |
20140207307 | VEHICLE DRIVER ASSIST ARRANGEMENT - A vehicle driver assist arrangement includes a processor configured to receive road profile data representative of a road profile in front of the vehicle and to receive current vehicle velocity data representative of a current velocity of the vehicle. The processor processes the road profile data to detect if the road in front of the vehicle contains a hidden or at least partially hidden curve, and to communicate with a user interface to issue a warning if a hidden or at least partially hidden curve is detected and the current vehicle velocity exceeds a threshold velocity. | 07-24-2014 |
20140191940 | VEHICLE DISPLAY ARRANGEMENT AND VEHICLE COMPRISING A VEHICLE DISPLAY ARRANGEMENT - A display arrangement for a vehicle is provided. The arrangement may include a display for displaying information to a vehicle operator, and a sensor for monitoring a head position of a vehicle operator and generating input signals indicative of the vehicle operator head position. The arrangement may also include a control unit arranged to automatically initiate, based on an interpretation of the input signals, at least one of a dimension change of graphical display objects or a change of the relation between the graphical display objects following a monitored predefined change of the vehicle operator head position in a first direction, such that graphical display objects previously displayed as partly hidden are arranged to be displayed as visible. | 07-10-2014 |
20140191536 | METHOD, VEHICLE REINFORCEMENT & VEHICLE - A method of manufacturing a vehicle reinforcement includes the step of a) joining a first portion comprising boron steel to a second portion comprising more ductile material than boron steel to form a vehicle reinforcement, and b) heat treating at least one part of the first portion after the joining so that the vehicle reinforcement comprises at least one hardened zone of boron steel and at least one soft zone of more ductile material than boron steel. | 07-10-2014 |
20140182286 | TURBOCHARGER - A turbocharger system for a vehicle may include a turbocharger, a tank for compressed gas and an exhaust manifold conduit in fluid communication with an inlet of the turbocharger. The tank is in fluid communication with the manifold conduit and is arranged to push compressed gas into the manifold conduit during a predetermined pulse duration time period for initial compressor spin up in the turbocharger. | 07-03-2014 |
20140172221 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSISTING A DRIVER - A method is provided for assisting a driver of a vehicle. The method may include performing a lateral control of the vehicle in an autonomous mode, determining information about a surroundings of the vehicle, checking whether a longitudinal control of the vehicle performed by the driver is appropriate considering the determined information about the surroundings, and, if appropriate, continuing an autonomous mode of the lateral control of the vehicle. A driver assist system is also provided for performing the method. | 06-19-2014 |
20140168608 | VEHICLE ADAPTATION TO AUTOMATIC DRIVER INDEPENDENT CONTROL MODE - A road vehicle which may switch between a driver dependent mode in which the control of the vehicle is dependent on a driver located in the vehicle and a driver independent mode in which the control of the vehicle is independent of a driver. The vehicle includes an image projecting system for projecting a motion picture on an interior surface of the vehicle, and at least one window glass configurable to function as a screen for showing images projected by the image projecting system. When the vehicle is controlled in the driver independent mode, an area of the window glass is changed from readily transparent to the screen for showing images projected by the image projecting system either by a change in a property of the window glass or covering the area of the window glass by an image reflecting surface. | 06-19-2014 |
20140160100 | METHOD AND USER INTERFACE SYSTEM FOR ADAPTING A GRAPHIC VISUALIZATION OF A VIRTUAL ELEMENT - A method performed by a user interface system is disclosed for adapting a graphic visualization of a virtual element on a display to render a corresponding fictitious physical element. The user interface system determines surrounding light characteristics of surrounding light associated with the display, and determines light adjusted characteristics of the virtual element based on the surrounding light characteristics. The user interface system adapts the graphic visualization based on the light adjusted characteristics, such that the graphic visualization resembles the fictitious physical element should the fictitious physical element have been subjected to the surrounding light. By considering surrounding light conditions prior to adapting the graphic visualization, the graphic visualization may change appearance depending on surrounding light conditions. The rendering may accordingly change dynamically when the surrounding light conditions change, similar to the appearance of true physical elements, thus providing a more realistic appearance of the graphic visualization. | 06-12-2014 |
20140158806 | METHOD FOR RETRACTING A SEAT BELT - A method for retracting a seat belt of a vehicle includes determining an excessive length of seat belt pulled out as the difference between the current length and the minimum length of seat belt pulled out, when the seat belt is in use. The method further includes, if a collision or and/or a risk situation involving the vehicle is detected, retracting the seat belt by applying a retraction force, the retraction force being a function of the excessive length of seat belt pulled out. Further, a safety arrangement of a vehicle includes a seat belt, a first sensor for determining an excessive length of seat belt pulled out, a collision detection system, a retractor for retracting the seat belt by applying the retraction force, and a processor for determining the retraction force as a function of the excessive length of seat belt pulled out. | 06-12-2014 |
20140158450 | SAFETY ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A safety arrangement for a vehicle comprises a bonnet and at least one support member. In case of a collision between the vehicle and a large animal, the bonnet is supported from beneath by the at least one support member in at least a rear central portion, such that the bonnet forms a ramp for the large animal, the ramp being adapted to direct the large animal over a windscreen and/or a roof structure of the vehicle. A method of mitigating the consequences of a collision between a vehicle and a large animal may be employed in conjunction with the safety arrangement. | 06-12-2014 |
20140136022 | PASSENGER AIRBAG SWITCH - A passenger airbag system includes a control unit connected to a switch for switching a passenger airbag between an active and a non-active state. The system also includes a first radio frequency unit arranged in the vehicle and may include a second radio frequency unit arranged in a vehicle remote key, so that when the radio frequency units are brought in contact with each other one of the units is arranged for sending a signal to the control unit for changing a setting of the switch. | 05-15-2014 |
20140132036 | SAFETY ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - The present disclosure relates to a safety arrangement for a vehicle. The safety arrangement comprises a bonnet being displaceable between a closed position, an open position, permitting access to an engine compartment of the vehicle, and a deployed position, in which position there is a gap between the bonnet and the engine compartment. The bonnet is displaceable from the closed position to the deployed position, which is located upwards and rearwards as compared to the closed position. Further, the bonnet is directly openable to the open position both from the closed position and from the deployed position. | 05-15-2014 |
20140130632 | TUNING STRUCTURE FOR GEAR SHIFT CABLES - A shift cable for transmitting of operation commands to a transmission comprises a cable conduit, an inner cable, a socket and a shift tuning structure. The socket is adapted to attach the shift cable to a housing. The shift tuning structure is provided between the cable conduit and the socket in order to provide a vibration dampening between the inner cable and the socket and to provide a desired shift feeling when the inner cable is transmitting an operation command. The shift tuning structure comprises a stiff, low-density material which is separated from the socket in axial and radial directions through a flexible material, which is thinner than the stiff, low-density material. | 05-15-2014 |
20140125803 | VEHICLE IMAGE CAPTURE SYSTEM - A vehicle image capture system is provided. The system may include a vehicle mounted image capture device adapted to capture one or more images external of a vehicle, a navigation system adapted to determine an instantaneous position of the vehicle, and a user interface arranged to allow a user to input a first position. The system is adapted to compare an instantaneous position of the vehicle with the first position, and to capture one or more images if the instantaneous position of the vehicle and the first position are within a predetermined proximity. | 05-08-2014 |
20140072773 | TRIM STRUCTURE FOR A VEHICLE - A trim structure for a vehicle includes at least two surface regions having different surface appearances and is manufactured in one unit. A method for providing a trim structure for a vehicle with at least two surface regions having different surface appearances comprises the steps of: a) providing a first surface appearance on at least a portion of an external surface of a trim structure body; b) providing a second surface appearance by applying a material layer on top of at least a part of the at least a portion having the first surface appearance; and c) removing a portion of the applied material layer, thereby revealing at least a portion of the under-lying first surface appearance. | 03-13-2014 |
20140070067 | VEHICLE SEAT SPACER ARRANGEMENT - The present invention relates to a light-weight, space efficient spacer arrangement for distancing a vehicle seat from a vehicle floor structure. The spacer arrangement comprises a first and a second spacing element, each having a spacing element seat side adapted to be positioned towards the vehicle seat, and a spacing element floor side adapted to be positioned towards the vehicle floor structure. The first and second spacing elements are of truncated cone or pyramid shape flared from the spacing element seat side towards the spacing element floor side, and are of dimensions and material capable of carrying sufficient weight and loads. Furthermore, the first and second spacing elements are adapted to bear weight and loads applied to the vehicle seat. | 03-13-2014 |
20130307294 | SIDE TRACK FOR A VEHICULAR SUN ROOF - A side track for a vehicular sun roof comprises a first portion having a longitudinal extension for supporting the sun roof, and a second portion extending side by side, and connected to, at least a part of the first portion. Furthermore, at least a part of the second portion is arranged to pivot in relation to the first portion in order to absorb impact energy from a colliding object. A sun roof arrangement comprising such a side track, and a vehicle comprising such a sun roof arrangement or side track are also provided. | 11-21-2013 |
20130300851 | INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ARRANGEMENT - An instrument cluster arrangement adapted for mounting in a dashboard panel of a vehicle includes a display having a display surface providing a graphics area of the instrument cluster arrangement. The arrangement also includes a detector for monitoring a subject inside the vehicle, which is arranged to receive radiation providing information regarding the subject. The arrangement also includes a reflector arranged to redirect radiation from the subject toward the detector, where the detector and the reflector are both arranged in the instrument cluster arrangement, adjacent the display. | 11-14-2013 |
20130300164 | SEAT CARRIER ARRANGEMENT - A vehicle seat carrier for a vehicle seat comprises a position adjustment arrangement adapted to enable the vehicle seat carrier to be displaced between a plurality of different positions and a position lock adapted to retain the vehicle seat carrier at a selected position. The position lock is adapted to be disabled as a response to a detected crash, or a detected imminent crash, so that the vehicle seat carrier is permitted to be displaced along a first path at least partly defined by the position adjustment arrangement, to provide for a passenger protective function. The passenger protective function utilizes the existing position adjustment arrangement to provide for a controlled displacement during a collision. | 11-14-2013 |
20130289843 | VEHICLE YAW STABILITY CONTROL METHOD AND APPARATUS - A vehicle yaw stability control method and a vehicle yaw stability control apparatus are provided. The yaw rate {dot over (Ψ)} of the vehicle is measured. A first reference yaw rate {dot over (Ψ)} | 10-31-2013 |
20130275020 | LARGE ANIMAL VEHICLE COLLISION SAFETY APPARATUS AND METHOD - Embodiments herein relate to a large animal collision vehicle safety apparatus and method. At least one sensor detects a first acceleration in a longitudinal direction of a host vehicle. A first determination signal is generated from the detected acceleration. At least one further sensor detects a second acceleration in a vertical direction, and/or at least one still further sensor detects an angular velocity about an axis extending in a lateral direction of the host vehicle. A second determination signal is generated from the detected acceleration in a vertical direction. A third determination signal is generated from the detected angular velocity. Judging means judge whether the vehicle has suffered a large animal collision through at least comparing the first, second and/or third determination signals with preset reference signals. Braking intervention of the host vehicle is triggered when the vehicle is judged to have suffered a large animal collision. | 10-17-2013 |
20130270804 | AIRBAG ARRANGEMENT - A vehicle airbag arrangement comprises a deployable airbag having a packed state and a deployed state, and a gas generator adapted to supply gas to deploy the airbag from the packed state to the deployed state. At least during initial deployment of the airbag, the gas generator may emit a gas flow substantially in a pre-selected direction. When the airbag is in the packed state, a portion of the airbag forms a starting pocket comprising two panels with an intermediate apex which extend substantially parallel to the pre-selected direction, the starting pocket positioned with the intermediate apex aligned with the pre-selected direction, such that the starting pocket, during the initial deployment of the airbag, initially receives the gas flow, thereby deploying the starting pocket in the pre-selected direction. Such an airbag arrangement may be included in a vehicle seat. A corresponding method of packing an airbag may achieve the airbag arrangement. | 10-17-2013 |
20130265011 | CIRCUIT FOR CHARGING A BATTERY AND FOR DRIVING A THREE-PHASE ELECTRICAL MACHINE - A circuit is provided for charging a battery and for driving an electrical machine. The circuit includes at least three static inductors in Wye configuration having a first charging terminal connected to the center point. The circuit also includes a three-phase inverter having switches and rectifying elements, two DC terminals for connecting the battery to the circuit, and three phase terminals for connecting the circuit to the inductors. The circuit also includes a first rectifying element and a second rectifying element connected in series, with a second charging terminal between the first rectifying element and the second rectifying element. The series of the first rectifying element and the second rectifying element is connected to the inverter parallel to the DC terminals and the first rectifying element and the second rectifying element have the same orientation as the rectifying elements of the inverter as to form a full-bridge rectifier. | 10-10-2013 |
20130264980 | THREE-PHASE INVERTER FOR DRIVING AN ELECTRIC MOTOR - A three-phase inverter for driving a three-phase electric motor includes three half-bridges. Each half-bridge has a first and a second transistor. A first and a second control voltage are applicable for providing phases to the three-phase electric motor. The first and second transistors are configured to be normally-on. Each half-bridge also has a third transistor connected in series with the first transistor and a fourth transistor connected in series with the second transistor. The third and fourth transistors are arranged to operatively receive the first and second control voltages, respectively. | 10-10-2013 |
20130245908 | STABILITY CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USE WHEN DRIVING ON A LOW-MU SURFACE - A system and a method for assisting a driver of a vehicle to turn the vehicle when driving during low-mu surface conditions. The vehicle has a steering system, a plurality of wheels and a brake system allowing individual braking of the respective wheels of the vehicle. The system comprises a controller arranged to detect if the vehicle accelerates after the brakes of the vehicle have been applied, and detect a driver command to turn the vehicle in either direction. If both detections are positive the controller is further arranged to release the brake force on a side of the vehicle opposite to the detected turning command direction. | 09-19-2013 |
20130239921 | ENGINE START ASSIST SYSTEM - An arrangement and a method are provided for improving performance of a start assist system for an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising: a start/stop system, a primary source of electrical energy, a secondary source of electrical energy, an electrical starter motor, an engine control unit, and additional vehicle electrical loads. A start controller is arranged such that the starter motor and engine control unit are operable with power supplied from the primary source of electrical energy at an initial cold starting attempt. If reset of the engine control unit occurs during the first cold starting attempt, the start controller is arranged such that the starter motor is operable with power supplied from the primary source of electrical energy and the engine control unit is operable with power supplied from the secondary source of electrical energy for an additional cold starting attempt. | 09-19-2013 |
20130239732 | SYSTEM FOR DRIVER-VEHICLE INTERACTION - A system for driver-vehicle interaction has a soft key arrangement located on a steering wheel and a display key arrangement located on a dashboard and having a layout corresponding to that of the soft key arrangement. The vehicle has multiple function modes each of which has a set of selectable options in order to affect a behavior of the vehicle. Each function mode is associated with a respective layout of the display key arrangement in order to display the set of options. For each function mode layout, each display key is illustrates and corresponds to a selectable option for each soft key. Actuation of the soft key arrangement both commands changes between the function modes and selects among the available selectable options within the chosen function mode. | 09-19-2013 |
20130231821 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSISTING A USER TO DISPLACE A VEHICLE TO A TARGET POSITION - A method for assisting a user to displace a vehicle to a target position is disclosed. The method may include activating an assistance mode, detecting an external force applied to the vehicle by the user, determining a displacement torque based on the external force, and displacing the vehicle toward the target position by applying the displacement torque using a vehicle propulsion system. A system for assisting a user to displace a vehicle to a target position is also disclosed. | 09-05-2013 |
20130231820 | TRAVEL DIRECTION DETERMINATION METHOD AND SYSTEM - A method for determining a direction of travel for a following vehicle ensures that the following vehicle follows a path indicative of that of a target vehicle. The target vehicle extends in longitudinal (X) and lateral (Y) directions, the longitudinal direction (X) corresponding to an intended direction of travel of the following vehicle. The method may include determining a measured lateral offset (ΔY | 09-05-2013 |
20130229049 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE WITH START/STOP - An electrical system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine provided with a start/stop system includes a primary battery connectible to an engine starter motor, an alternator and an electrical load in parallel with one another and selectively connectible in parallel with the primary battery via a first switch, and a third source of electrical energy selectively connectible in parallel with the alternator via a second switch. A DC/DC converter may be arranged in parallel with the alternator for selectively charging the third source of electrical energy via the second switch. A secondary battery may be arranged in parallel with the alternator. | 09-05-2013 |
20130227818 | HINGE MECHANISM - The invention relates to a hinge mechanism for a bonnet of a vehicle. The hinge mechanism comprises:
| 09-05-2013 |
20130218419 | METHOD, COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING VEHICLE SAFETY EQUIPMENT - A method is disclosed for determining whether it is necessary to utilize safety equipment of a vehicle. The method includes detecting an impending impact of an object with a vehicle's windscreen by obtaining data concerning the object from a vehicle-mounted vision sensor, analysing the data to determine whether the object will impact the windscreen, and activating the safety equipment only if the windscreen impact is imminent. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213180 | GEAR SHIFT LEVER KNOB - A gear shift lever knob includes a knob body forming a main portion of the gear shift lever knob. The knob body is made of a first material that allows light to pass through. The gear shift lever knob further includes a frame at least partly enclosing the knob body such that the knob body is externally visible. The frame is made of a second material different from the first material. | 08-22-2013 |
20130211624 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR TRAVEL IN A PLATOON - The present invention relates to a control system for travel in a platoon ( | 08-15-2013 |
20130200603 | PEDESTRIAN PROTECTION AIRBAG - A pedestrian protection airbag system for a vehicle includes an airbag that is adapted to be deployed along a windscreen and/or A-pillars of the vehicle, is inflatable to a deployed state and has projected periphery. The airbag system further comprises at least one tethering member connecting a first region of the airbag with a second region of the airbag along a path, the path being arranged within the projected periphery of the airbag when the airbag is in the deployed state. A vehicle comprising such a pedestrian protection airbag system and a method of deployment of an airbag of such a pedestrian protection airbag system are also provided. | 08-08-2013 |
20130190944 | DRIVER ASSISTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A driver assisting system and method for a vehicle are provided. The system includes a processor and a display system. The display system is adapted to display information on a screen of a vehicle. The screen is adapted to show the environment in front of the vehicle or a representation thereof. The vehicle extends in a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction, the longitudinal direction corresponding to the intended direction of vehicle travel. The processor is adapted to receive a first input data signal indicative of a velocity of the vehicle, and a second input data signal indicative of an actual performed and/or on-going and/or impending lateral position change of the vehicle. The processor is further adapted to process at least the first and the second input data signals to calculate an estimated vehicle path, and the display system is adapted to display the estimated vehicle path on the screen. | 07-25-2013 |
20130188283 | PROTECTION MANAGEMENT OF SUPER CAPACITATORS - A method for protecting a super capacitor includes monitoring a charge level of the capacitor, monitoring a temperature of the capacitor, discharging the capacitor when the temperature is above a predetermined level, or discharging the capacitor down to a predetermined level when the capacitor has stayed charged over said level longer than a predetermined period, and directing the discharged power from the capacitor to a cooling device for cooling the capacitor. Also, a super capacitor system includes at least one super capacitor, a control unit and sensor for monitoring the temperature and the charge level of the capacitor. The system further includes a cooling device connected to the super capacitor for cooling the capacitor. | 07-25-2013 |
20130175893 | MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVE UNIT - A motor vehicle drive unit and an automotive vehicle comprising such a motor vehicle drive unit are provided. An electric motor has a rotor and a main stator rotatably mounted to a support structure. A first transmission provides an output to a first wheel axle shaft from the rotor. A second transmission provides an output to a second wheel axle shaft from the main stator. An auxiliary stator at least partially surrounds the main stator and is held stationary relative to the main rotatably mounted stator. A control unit is provided for controlling the auxiliary stator to add or subtract power to the main rotatably mounted stator. | 07-11-2013 |
20130174686 | STEERING COLUMN LOCK - A steering column arrangement for a vehicle comprises a first portion rotatably supported by a second portion. The steering column arrangement further comprises a first electrical motor that is adapted to be operably connected to a vehicle control system. The steering column is arranged to be moved laterally and/or axially by the first electric motor. The steering column arrangement further comprises locking means arranged to lock the steering column thereby preventing rotation of the steering column. The locking means comprise a first locking member attached to the steering column and a second locking member arranged to be attached to the vehicle chassis, where the first electric motor is arranged to move the steering column to a locked position in which the first locking member and the second locking member are arranged to engage, thereby preventing rotation of the steering column. | 07-11-2013 |
20130166100 | SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING DRIVING MODES OF A VEHICLE - A system for controlling driving modes of a vehicle having a driver, where each of the driving modes is adapted to control a behaviour of the vehicle during operation of the vehicle in the driving mode, each of the driving modes being associated with a set of driving sub-modes. Each driving sub-mode is adapted to be activated by the vehicle in response to ambient circumstances. One of the driving modes is associated with a first and a second driving sub-mode, the first and second driving sub-modes being accompanied with a first and a second driver controlled setting respectively. The system also includes an input device for selection between the driving modes and for controlling the driver controlled settings. The first and second driver controlled settings are adapted to be manually set by the driver through the input device only upon activation of the accompanying driving sub-mode by the vehicle. | 06-27-2013 |
20130162030 | POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR POWERING AN ELECTRIC LOAD OF A VEHICLE - An electrical power supply system for powering an electric load of a vehicle includes a main battery, a support battery and a battery control module. The battery control module includes a first terminal for connection to the main battery, a second terminal for connection to the support battery and a third terminal for connecting to the electric load. A switch is arranged between said second terminal and said third terminal. The battery control module is arranged to connect the support battery to the load by turning the switch conducting in case the voltage at the third terminal drops below a predetermined voltage. The system provides the automatic activation of a support energy source when the output voltage falls below a specified voltage threshold. The support battery supports the main battery when needed or acts as a redundant power source. | 06-27-2013 |
20130160867 | FUEL VENTILATION SYSTEM VALVE - A fuel system vent valve comprises a housing with a first opening, and a float inside the housing. The float is movable between a first position in which the valve is open and a second position in which the float covers the first opening such that the valve is closed. The valve further comprises a liquid trap arranged above the housing such that it covers the first opening. The liquid trap comprises a housing in which is arranged a perimeter wall surrounding the first opening, the perimeter wall being arranged at a distance from the liquid trap housing thereby creating a first volume inside the wall and a second volume outside the wall. The first volume is larger than the second volume and the two volumes are connected via at least one gap between a top of the wall and a top of the liquid trap housing. | 06-27-2013 |
20130146018 | SPLIT BEARING ARRANGEMENT AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A SPLIT BEARING ARRANGEMENT - A split bearing arrangement for reciprocating engines comprises a bedplate section and a block section made of materials differing in hardness. The bedplate section includes at least a bedplate section clamping surface made of an iron material, and has at least one positioning protrusion located on the bedplate section clamping surface. The block section, made of a material having a hardness which is less than the hardness of the iron material, is adapted to be clampable and forcibly pressed against the bedplate section. When the bedplate section is first pressed into the block section, at least one positioning groove located in a block section clamping surface is formed. The at least one positioning protrusion has two longitudinal concave surfaces, two transverse concave surfaces and a substantially flat upper surface. | 06-13-2013 |
20130124053 | VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH SPLIT ACTIVE/PASSIVE PROCESSING - A vehicle safety system includes a remote sensor detecting an object and a collision detector detecting a collision with the vehicle. An active safety module receives the remote sensor output and controls operation of an active vehicle safety system utilizing a first parameter set providing a first balance between suppression of false positive detections of imminent collision and acknowledgement of true positive detections of imminent collision, the first balance optimized for control of the active safety system. A passive safety module is connected in parallel with the active safety module to receive the sensor output and receives the detector output. The passive safety module utilizes a second parameter set to control operation of a passive vehicle safety system providing a second balance having, in relation to the first balance, a relatively lower suppression of false positive detections and a relatively higher acknowledgement of true positive detections. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124047 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADAPTATION OF A STEERING WHEEL TORQUE OVERLAY OF A LANE KEEPING AID SYSTEM - A method for adaptation of a steering wheel torque overlay of a lane keeping aid system in a vehicle comprises requesting a controller steering wheel torque overlay T | 05-16-2013 |
20130124046 | ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR SAFEGUARDING DRIVER ATTENTIVENESS - An arrangement and a method are described for safeguarding driver attentiveness to the task of steering while operating a vehicle having a lane keeping aid system. The arrangement and method provide for measuring a pinion angle and a torsion bar torque when the lane keeping aid system is applying an overlaying steering torque. Driver applied torque is estimated from the measurements. A hands-off metric is calculated based on a relation between the measurements and the estimate. Hands-off is determined based on a comparison of the metric with a predefined threshold. The arrangement and method further provide for evaluating hands-on between torque interventions by the lane keeping aid system. An action is determined based on the determined hands-off and the evaluated hands-on and the action determined performed. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124022 | POWERTRAIN AND METHOD FOR FAST START OF AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE IN A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle powertrain includes an internal combustion engine and an electric vehicle traction motor, an engine lubrication oil pump in fluid communication with a lubrication oil flow circuit for the internal combustion engine, an electric oil pump drive motor drivingly connected to the lubrication oil pump, and a powertrain control module. The powertrain control module is configured to start the electric oil pump drive motor immediately upon the initial start of the vehicle. | 05-16-2013 |
20130121786 | SCREW ASSEMBLY ELEMENT - A screw assembly element in a first part is provided for use when attaching the first part to a second part using a screw. The assembly element comprises a sleeve arranged in a hole in the first part, the sleeve being cylindrical. At least a portion of the first part extends into the inside of the sleeve. | 05-16-2013 |
20130119681 | INFLATABLE DEVICE AND DEPLOYABLE SOFTNOSE WITH INFLATABLE DEVICE - An inflatable, energy-absorbing device for positioning behind a deployable front surface of a vehicle includes at least one air bag. Each of the at least one air bag is made of a drop stitch material comprising at least an outer and an inner layer of fabric and an internal reinforcement in the form of one or more internal stitchings which extends/extend around the airbag between opposing surfaces of the outer and inner layers of fabric. The inflatable, energy-absorbing device is configured to, upon actuation thereof by means of a sensor system for detecting approaching or actual impacts, inflate and thereby deploy the front surface of the vehicle in the driving direction of the vehicle. A deployable soft nose structure is also disclosed. The deployable soft nose structure comprises a deployable front surface and at least one inflatable, energy-absorbing device as defined above, positioned behind deployable the front surface. | 05-16-2013 |
20130091779 | CONTROLLED COLLAPSE OF CAR WINDSHIELD - A windshield for a vehicle comprises weakening means arranged to weaken the windshield so that the windshield collapses in a controlled manner in the event of the vehicle colliding with a person. | 04-18-2013 |
20130090796 | MOTOR ASSEMBLY - A motor assembly comprises an electric power train that is adapted to be connected to a power source and is also adapted to impart a torque to a wheel when the motor assembly is operating. The assembly further comprises a power determination means adapted to determine the amount of power supplied from the power source to the electric power train when the motor assembly is operating. In addition, the assembly comprises a rotational speed determination means adapted to determine a rotational speed of the wheel when the motor assembly is operating. Moreover, the assembly comprises a torque determination means adapted to determine a command torque value indicative of a requested torque to the wheel. | 04-11-2013 |
20130087010 | SAFETY ARRANGEMENT FOR VEHICLE PEDAL - The present disclosure relates to a safety arrangement for a vehicle pedal, comprising a pedal structure including a pedal arm with an elongated shape for carrying a pedal plate; a bracket, which is fixedly connected to the pedal arm; a pedal hub, to be arranged in order to transfer a movement of the pedal structure to a vehicular system. The pedal structure is in a first position relative to the pedal hub during normal operation of the pedal structure. Further, the pedal structure is displaceable from the first position relative to the pedal hub to a second position relative to the pedal hub, wherein, when in the second position, the pedal structure is at least partly operatively decoupled from the pedal hub. | 04-11-2013 |
20130085733 | NOx EMISSION ESTIMATION METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT | 04-04-2013 |
20130081444 | SOOT EMISSION ESTIMATION METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT - A soot emission estimation method and arrangement for a diesel engine estimates the amount of soot generated in a combustion chamber of the diesel engine. The method includes providing values for speed and load; providing a base soot value from an engine speed-load resolved reference soot map; defining and providing emission influencing input parameters; calculating a deviation between at least one emission influencing input parameter and a speed-load resolved reference value for the at least one emission influencing input parameter; multiplying the calculated deviation with an individual value from an individual speed-load resolved weight map for the at least one emission influencing input parameter, thereby creating an emission influencing input parameter related correction for the at least one emission influencing input parameter; adding and summarizing the at least one emission influencing input parameter related correction to the base soot value and thereby obtaining an estimated soot mass flow value. | 04-04-2013 |
20130073115 | System And Method For Improving A Performance Estimation Of An Operator Of A Vehicle - System for improving a performance estimation of an operator of a vehicle, comprising a first module implementing a first method for estimating a performance state of vehicle operation, a second module implementing a second method for estimating at least one of a physiological and behavioural state of the operator, a device for sharing an estimated state between one of the first and the second module and the other one of the first and the second module, wherein the implemented estimation method of one of the first and the second module is adjusted based on the state of the other one of the first and the second module, thereby improving the estimation of at least one of the performance state of vehicle operation and the physiological and/or behavioural state of the operator. | 03-21-2013 |
20130058536 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM EMBODYING A COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR DETERMINING A VEHICLE OPERATOR'S EXPECTATION OF A STATE OF AN OBJECT - The present invention generally relates to a method, a system and/or a computer readable program. An embodiment of the method includes acquiring an input signal indicative of the operator's expectation of the state of the object at a first point in time; determining a state of the object at a second later point in time based on the input signal; acquiring an input signal indicative of an estimated visual input of the operator at the second point in time; determining the operator's expectation of the state at the second point in time, based on the operator's expectation of the state of the object at the first point in time, and the estimated visual input and the state of the object at the second point in time; and providing an output signal indicative of the operator's expectation of the state at the second point in time. | 03-07-2013 |
20130058529 | VISUAL INPUT OF VEHICLE OPERATOR - The present invention relates to a method for determining a vehicle operator's visual input of an object in the operator's surroundings, which method comprises receiving an object position signal indicative of the position of at least one object, receiving an operator motion input signal indicative of operator physiological data comprising information relating to body motion of the operator, estimating an operator eye-gaze direction, and determining a visual input quality value representative of level of visual input of the at least one object received by the operator, based on the object position signal and the estimated operator eye-gaze direction. | 03-07-2013 |
20130057671 | METHOD FOR CLASSIFICATION OF EYE CLOSURES - The present invention generally relates to a method for improving the reliability of a portion of physiological data from an image sensor monitoring an operator positioned in an operator compartment of a vehicle. An embodiment of the method includes receiving, from the image sensor, physiological data including information relating to at least one of eye, face, head, arms and body motion of the operator, identifying an indication of at least an eyelid closure, eye movement or head movement of the operator based on the physiological data; comparing at least one of the physiological data and a lighting condition within the operator compartment with a set of rules for a current operator status; and classifying the type of eyelid closure, eye movement and/or head movement by correlating the identified eyelid closure, eye movement and/or head movement and a result of the comparison. | 03-07-2013 |
20130015690 | CHILD SEATAANM Mendis; KolitaAACI RedmondAAST WAAACO USAAGP Mendis; Kolita Redmond WA USAANM Wessman; BjornAACI Thousand OaksAAST CAAACO USAAGP Wessman; Bjorn Thousand Oaks CA USAANM Johnston; RobertAACI VancouverAACO CAAAGP Johnston; Robert Vancouver CAAANM Zinn; AndreasAACI Newbury ParkAAST CAAACO USAAGP Zinn; Andreas Newbury Park CA USAANM Abele; LarryAACI CamarilloAAST CAAACO USAAGP Abele; Larry Camarillo CA USAANM Hansson; MariaAACI VenturaAAST CAAACO USAAGP Hansson; Maria Ventura CA USAANM Jakobsson; LottaAACI GraboAACO SEAAGP Jakobsson; Lotta Grabo SEAANM Broberg; ThomasAACI GrabeAACO SEAAGP Broberg; Thomas Grabe SEAANM Guse; ChristianAACI TorslandaAACO SEAAGP Guse; Christian Torslanda SEAANM Berge; StefanAACI Vastra FrolundaAACO SEAAGP Berge; Stefan Vastra Frolunda SE - The present disclosure relates to a child seat for rearward-facing use in a vehicle. It comprises a back portion and a squab portion. The back portion comprises a force-receiving assembly, located at the shoulder region, which is of a more rigid material than a main portion of the back portion, the main portion being of a light-weight material. The force-receiving assembly comprises a first portion arranged at the first side of the back portion providing an anchor point for a shoulder portion of a child safety belt arrangement. The force-receiving assembly further comprises a second portion arranged at the second side of the back portion providing an anchor point for a child seat fixation means. The disclosure further relates to a child seat arrangement, a kit of parts and a vehicle comprising the child seat. | 01-17-2013 |
20130001989 | VEHICLE SEAT HAVING A HEAD REST ARRANGEMENT WITH AN ADJUSTABLE HEAD CUSHION AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE VEHICLE SEAT - An example of the present description relates to a vehicle seat comprising a back rest support comprising a head rest arrangement. The head rest arrangement comprises a displaceable head cushion which is displaceable between a first and a second position along a Z-axis. The head rest arrangement further comprises a passenger protection part adapted to protect a passenger from injury during a collision. The displaceable head cushion is displaceably arranged with respect to the passenger protection part. The present description provides for comfort and safety for passengers in a vehicle for both front passengers and hack passengers. | 01-03-2013 |
20120330538 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE WITH START/STOP - An electrical system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine with start/stop capability includes a primary battery connectible to an engine starter motor; a secondary battery, an alternator, and an electrical load in parallel with one another and selectively connectible in parallel with the primary battery by a charge switch; in parallel with the secondary battery, a DC/DC converter in series with a third electrical energy source; and a bypass switch operable to selectively bypass the DC/DC converter. The bypass switch allows for selective bypassing the DC/DC converter and charging/discharging of the third electrical energy source during start/stop operation, to ensure a sufficient voltage level over the additional vehicle electrical loads when the internal combustion engine and consequently the alternator are not running. | 12-27-2012 |
20120326856 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SPEED ESTIMATION AND CONTROL - A system and method for determining a speed profile for a vehicle travelling along a road in which a curve speed estimation unit receives inputs indicating a position of the vehicle relative to a curve ahead of the vehicle, and inputs related to vehicle velocity, curve geometry, road surface conditions, vehicle-specific data; and driver preferences. The curve sped estimation unit use at least some of the above-listed inputs to determine a speed profile for the curve by generating an acceleration limit map which depends on a relationship between a maximum possible longitudinal acceleration and a maximum possible lateral acceleration. | 12-27-2012 |
20120326676 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR IMPROVING THE PERFORMANCE OF A SAFETY-CRITICAL VEHICLE ACTUATOR - Embodiments herein relate to an arrangement and method for improving the performance of a safety-critical vehicle actuator, in particular a safety-critical vehicle actuator powered directly or indirectly from a vehicle electrical system. The safety-critical vehicle actuator is arranged to, upon activation thereof, signal to an alternator of the vehicle to output a raised voltage for a pre-determined time period. | 12-27-2012 |
20120286492 | ADJUSTABLE RATE LEAF SPRING SUSPENSION - A suspension for a motor vehicle has a sub-frame and first and second control arm movably attached to opposite ends of the sub-frame. A leaf spring extends transversely across the sub-frame, a first end acting on the first control arm and a second end acting on the second control arm. A first spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, and is movable over a first range of positions relative to the leaf spring. A second spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, the second spring seat movable over a second range of positions relative to the leaf spring. An actuator is operatively connected to the first and second spring seats to move the first and second spring seats across their respective ranges of positions, thereby changing a spring rate of the leaf spring. | 11-15-2012 |
20120262934 | TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE - A tail light for mounting on a motor vehicle having a rear end and a rear bumper extending generally transversely across the rear end. The tail light is mounted to the rear end above the bumper and has a translucent body comprising an upper portion substantially conforming to a shape of the vehicle body adjacent the light unit, a rear portion angled downward relative to the upper portion, and an air separation edge extending along at least a portion of an intersection between the upper portion and the rear portion along at least the transverse direction of the vehicle. The air separation edge delays air flow separation from the rear of the vehicle body, thereby improving aerodynamic efficiency. The body is made of an elastic material to resist impact damage, and therefore may be mounted closer to a rearmost surface of the bumper without being damaged in a collision. | 10-18-2012 |
20120262933 | STORAGE COMPARTMENT AND WARNING LIGHTING FOR A VEHICLE - A convenience light for the rear storage area of a motor vehicle also serves as a breakdown warning light. A light source on an underside of the storage compartment lid is a warning light visible from behind the when the compartment lid is open. A reflective panel is disposed on a lid-receiving portion of the vehicle body to reflect light from the light source toward the lid when the lid is open, so that the light and reflective panel combine to serve as a convenience light for the storage area. The light is detachably attached to the compartment lid and has a battery to power the light when detached from the compartment lid. The light source has three lighted segments foldable relative to one another when detached from the compartment lid to form a triangle. The light is thus usable as a warning triangle for a disable vehicle. | 10-18-2012 |
20120262673 | VEHICULAR INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM AND METHOD - An exterior window of a vehicle has an array of opaque elements on at least a portion of its surface. The elements reflect light emitted by a video projector inside the vehicle to serve as a display screen for images visible to an occupant of the vehicle. The window is transparent in the spaces surrounding the opaque elements so that the exterior environment is simultaneously visible to the occupant. The displayed image is based on a geographical location of the vehicle and includes information about an actual geographic subject in the vicinity of the vehicle. The image may be projected on the display pattern in a location such that the image and the actual geographic subject are viewable simultaneously through the window. | 10-18-2012 |
20120262062 | METHOD OF IMPROVING VISIBILITY THROUGH A WINDOW - A method of improving visibility for a person viewing an environment through a window includes detecting a light condition in the environment and, in responses to nature of the detected light condition, activating an illumination system adjacent an edge of the window to direct light into the window. The light is of the proper intensity and a wavelength to improve visibility of the environment as viewed through the window. The light condition may be detected by an environmental sensor and the illumination system activated based on signals generated by the environmental sensor. | 10-18-2012 |
20120261953 | SUNROOF SEAL MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD - A sunroof for a motor vehicle includes a frame defining a rectangular panel opening and a movable panel. A first flange extends adjacent to at least one edge of the panel opening and is adapted to retain an elongated weather seal in a temporary position in which the seal permits access to the sunroof mechanism necessary to adjust the position of the movable panel during the sunroof installation process. A second flange extends adjacent to and offset from the first flange and is adapted to retain a seal in an installed position in which the seal may restrict access to the sunroof mechanism. The seal is mounted on the first flange prior to installation of the sunroof in the vehicle. Necessary adjustments to the sunroof are made during the installation process, and then the seal is moved on to the second flange after the final installation. | 10-18-2012 |
20120246615 | COMPLETE AND COMPATIBLE FUNCTION - An arrangement for verifying the completeness and compatibility of software components in an electronic control unit includes a bootloader and a CompleteCompatible verification component. The bootloader is arranged to, upon start-up of the electronic control unit, verify the completeness and compatibility of the CompleteCompatible verification component, and upon such verification being positive initiate the CompleteCompatible verification component. The CompleteCompatible verification component is arranged to, upon performance thereof, verify the completeness and compatibility of further software components in the electronic control unit. | 09-27-2012 |
20120242128 | REARWARD FACING INFLATABLE CHILD SEAT - The present invention relates to a child seat for rearward facing use in a vehicle. The child seat includes an inflatable seating cushion chamber; an inflatable back part chamber; and inflatable side part chambers. The chambers are interconnected such that they form a continuous inflatable volume that require only a single port for inflation and deflation. The chambers are constructed out of a non-permeable fabric that maintains a constant separation between at least two non-permeable fabric surfaces when inflated. | 09-27-2012 |
20120221210 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SEAT BELT RETRACTION SPEED CONTROL - A seat belt is wound around a spool and a spring biases the spool to rotate in a belt retraction direction. A sensor detects a retraction speed of the belt when the spool rotates in the belt retraction direction and generating a belt speed signal. An electrical drive unit receives the belt speed signal and applies a torque to the spool in a belt extension direction (opposite to the belt retraction direction) if the retraction speed exceeds a threshold value. The torque is of a magnitude sufficient to maintain the retraction speed below the threshold value. The electric motor and/or electrical control unit may be part of or otherwise integrated with a safety belt pre-tensioning system. | 08-30-2012 |
20120217787 | OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITH BELT GUIDE ACTUATOR - An occupant restraint system for a vehicle seat has a belt with a shoulder-belt portion extending diagonally across the seat between an upper portion of first side of the seat and a lower portion of a second side of the seat. An upper belt guide is mounted adjacent to the upper first side of the seat and engages the shoulder-belt to allow it to slide along the guide during belt retraction and extension. A safety sensor/control system generates a signal indicating a condition requiring improved occupant restraint in the seat. A guide actuator is activated in response to the safety sensor/control system signal and displaces the upper belt guide in a transverse direction relative to the seat. The displacement of the guide moves the shoulder-belt portion closer to the neck and/or shoulder of the seat occupant to more securely restrain the occupant. | 08-30-2012 |
20120217733 | OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEM WITH BELT PRE-TENSIONER - A seat belt system for a vehicle has a shoulder-belt extending diagonally across the seat. A belt tensioner applies tension to the belt in response to detection/prediction of a potentially unsafe situation by a safety sensor/control system. A support arm has an upper end mounted to the vehicle structure above an upper outboard portion of the seat. The support arm extends downwardly and a guide member is attached to the lower end of the support arm and engages the belt. The lower end of the support arm is movable relative to the upper end/mounting point such that when the tensioner is activated, the belt urges the guide member from a comfort position relatively far from the neck and/or upper shoulder of a seat occupant to a safety position closer to the seat. | 08-30-2012 |
20120203436 | ONBOARD PERCEPTION SYSTEM - An onboard perception system of a vehicle is contemplated. The system may include a state assessment unit adapted to at least assess a state of a first external object located in a vicinity of the vehicle hosting the onboard perception system, at least a first sensor assembly for assessing sound information, and an evaluation means adapted to evaluate a change in the state of the first external object by using the assessed sound information. | 08-09-2012 |
20120203435 | BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM - A method for automatic braking of a vehicle in order to avoid collision with road users is contemplated. The method may be used in avoiding or mitigating collisions with users in adjacent lanes. The method may include monitoring adjacent lanes of a road for detecting the relative approach of road users in said adjacent lanes to said vehicle, and providing a signal indicative thereof, detecting a left or right hand turn of the vehicle and providing a signal indicative thereof, calculating, in response to said signals, if a collision with an approaching road user is imminent, and providing a signal indicative thereof, and activating, in response to the signal that a collision with the approaching road user is imminent, the brakes of the vehicle. | 08-09-2012 |
20120203418 | METHOD FOR REDUCING THE RISK OF A COLLISION BETWEEN A VEHICLE AND A FIRST EXTERNAL OBJECT - A method for reducing the risk of a collision between a vehicle and at least a first external object is contemplated. The risk of a collision may be reduced with use of a collision avoidance system having a detection unit adapted to issue a control signal in the event it detects a collision involving a first external object in a vicinity of the host vehicle, and an action unit adapted to operate the collision avoidance system such that an emergency manoeuvre can be initiated by the collision avoidance system at an earlier stage if the control signal is issued, as compared to when no control signal is issued. | 08-09-2012 |
20120187723 | AIR SUPPLY DUCT - The present disclosure relates to an air supply duct for a vehicle, the air supply duct comprising a housing, the housing having an inlet adapted to receive air from outside of the vehicle and an outlet adapted to convey the air to a vehicle climate control system, and a cowl arranged inside the housing, the cowl being adapted to direct the air along an air path, such that the air path changes direction within the housing. The cowl has a curved form adapted to form an inner curve of the air path. Further, the cowl comprises a precipitation collection means arranged to collect precipitation borne by the air from the outside of the vehicle and to remove the precipitation from the air. The disclosure also relates to a vehicle comprising such an air supply duct. | 07-26-2012 |
20120110989 | EXHAUST-GAS AFTERTREATMENT DEVICE - An exhaust-gas aftertreatment device for an internal combustion engine is contemplated. The device may comprises a catalytic converter, wherein the catalytic converter comprises a tubular member which defines a volume within which a catalytic converter substrate is located, and wherein the volume with the catalytic converter substrate communicates with an inlet portion for receiving exhaust gas emissions from the internal combustion engine and with an outlet portion for discharging the exhaust gas emissions after catalytic conversion thereof in the volume. | 05-10-2012 |
20120100951 | OVERDRIVE UNIT - An overdrive unit for a vehicle is operatively connectable to a transverse mounted front wheel drive vehicle gearbox, which has been arranged to provide a single output shaft. The overdrive unit includes a planetary gear set and a differential are mounted together in an overdrive unit housing such that the output shaft of the vehicle gearbox is operatively connectable to the planetary gear set. The planetary gear set is further operatively connectable to drive shafts of the vehicle via the differential. A clutch unit is provided for selectively engaging gearing of the planetary gear set. | 04-26-2012 |
20120096838 | ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR TREATMENT OF EXAHUST GASES - An exhaust gas treatment arrangement and a method thereof is contemplated for treating exhaust gases flowing along a flow path in an exhaust pipe system. The arrangement comprises a supply element being in communication with a source comprising an ammonia gas. The supply element comprises at least two discharge apertures being adapted to communicate with the flow path such that the ammonia gas may be dispersible from the discharge apertures into the exhaust gases in the flow path in at least two discharge directions. | 04-26-2012 |
20110291392 | CONNECTING ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AIRBAG MODULE - A connecting arrangement for connection of an airbag module to a steering column of a vehicle. The connecting arrangement having a first connector located on the airbag module and a second connector located on a component connected to the steering column. The first and second connectors having electrical contacts for the airbag module and/or electrical controllers located on a steering wheel of the vehicle. The first and second connectors being mutually formed such that they automatically connect as the airbag module is being connected to the steering column. | 12-01-2011 |
20110288774 | FORWARD COLLISION RISK REDUCTION - A method for determining a safety zone of a foreign object for a forward collision risk reduction system. The method may include determining the type of the foreign object; setting the safety zone to a predetermined value corresponding to the type of the foreign object; determining the traffic behavior of the foreign object; determining if the traffic behavior corresponds to a species of a predetermined group of traffic behaviors; and if the traffic behavior corresponds to a species of a predetermined group of traffic behaviors, modifying the safety zone in accordance with a predetermined species function corresponding to the species. | 11-24-2011 |
20110254257 | BELT LATCH FOR A SAFETY BELT - A belt latch including a connection plate, for connecting it to a buckle, and a latch main body rigidly connected thereto. The latch main body may have a cut-open hollow cylindrical portion housing a bending and clamping element arranged to rotate in relation thereto from a deflecting position to a clamping position if the force in an associated belt exceeds a defined force. A lid may be arranged to cover the cut-open hollow cylindrical portion. | 10-20-2011 |
20110215947 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLISION WARNING - A system and method for collision warning in a host vehicle including: detecting a collision risk between the host vehicle and an other user of the road with a detection means based on input from at least one sensor which detects at least one parameter related to the other user of the road with respect to the host vehicle; identifying possible options to avoid a collision between the host vehicle and the other user of the road based on input from the detection means, wherein possible options for the host vehicle to avoid a collision are identified as well as possible options for the other user of the road to avoid a collision are identified; calculating among the identified possible options at least one preferred avoidance action in order to avoid a collision between the host vehicle and the other user of the road; and if the at least one preferred avoidance action involves at least one possible option identified for the other user of the road, then generating a warning signal from the host vehicle in a direction towards the other user of the road in order to warn the other user of the road of the collision risk. | 09-08-2011 |
20110197701 | STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY - A steering wheel assembly having an armature, a hub, a wheel rim skeleton, and at least one spoke connecting the hub with the wheel rim skeleton. The assembly may include a rim interface component attachable to the wheel rim skeleton. The assembly may further include an insert component, which is attachable to the wheel rim skeleton and/or the hub, and the rim interface component and the insert component being exchangeable independently of each other. | 08-18-2011 |
20110077864 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EVALUATION OF AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE FORWARD COLLISION THREAT - A method and system operable for evaluation of an automotive vehicle forward collision threat. The presence of an oncoming vehicle in front of a host vehicle is established and a passing position of the host vehicle for the moment when the vehicles reach each other is predicted. In addition, a free passing distance for free passing of the oncoming vehicle on a first side of the host vehicle is predicted for the situation when the host vehicle is positioned in the passing position. The free passing distance is the minimum distance between the first side of the host vehicle and a road edge. A width of the oncoming vehicle is also estimated. If the free passing distance is equal to or less than a comparison value, it is decided that a forward vehicle collision threat exists. The comparison value is at least equal to the width of the oncoming vehicle. | 03-31-2011 |
20110071731 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COLLISION AVOIDANCE - A method for collision avoidance for a host vehicle includes the following steps; receiving input data relating to a set of objects external to the host vehicle, wherein an object position (r,Φ), and an object velocity ({dot over (r)}) are associated with each object by a sensor system arranged on the host vehicle, then estimating future trajectories of each external object, while considering influence by the future trajectories of the other external objects. | 03-24-2011 |
20090281780 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GENERATING CONFIGURATION CONSTRAINTS FOR COMPUTER MODELS - A bill of material and a design layout are aligned to generate a configuration for a virtual vehicle. The bill of material includes a part number and usage associated with a part. The design layout includes a CAD model of the part. CAD models in vehicle position are generated from the design layout. Logical positions are identified based on the usage and the CAD models in vehicle position are associated with the logical positions. Feature conditions are applied to the CAD models in vehicle position representing content and position configuration. | 11-12-2009 |
20090243334 | AIR DEFLECTOR - The present disclosure relates to an air deflector, adapted to be attached to the upper windshield crossbeam of a convertible vehicle. The air deflector includes a top surface, a front portion, an outer side portion, an inner side portion and a rear wing portion. The rear wing portion extends upwards from the top surface. The air deflector may further include a locking device adapted to lock the air deflector in the locking arrangement for the retractable top. | 10-01-2009 |