| JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20120126942 | TRAINABLE WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM - The invention relates to a trainable wireless control system ( | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125023 | FREE COOLING REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A refrigeration system includes a chiller with an integrated free cooling system and refrigeration system. In certain embodiments, the chiller may be a single package unit with all equipment housed within the same support frame. The chiller may generally include three modes of operation: a first mode that employs free cooling, a second mode that employs free cooling and implements a refrigeration cycle, and a third mode that uses the free cooling system provide additional cooling capacity for the refrigeration system. The free cooling system includes an independent loop configured to transfer heat from a cooling fluid circulating within the free cooling system to the ambient air. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120117989 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR VARIABLE REFRIGERANT CHILLER OPERATION - A refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, an evaporator, and an additional refrigerant vessel connected in a closed refrigerant loop. The additional refrigerant vessel is connected to the condenser at the high pressure side by a first valve and to the evaporator at a low pressure side by a second valve. A controller controls operation of the first valve and the second valve. Only one of the first valve and the second valve may be open at the same time. Refrigerant from the additional refrigerant vessel may be added to the closed refrigerant loop when the controller receives a low refrigerant level indication of in the evaporator. Refrigerant may also be removed from the closed refrigerant loop when the controller receives a high refrigerant level indication in the evaporator. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120111040 | SYSTEM FOR LIMITING PRESSURE DIFFERENCES IN DUAL COMPRESSOR CHILLERS - Systems for limiting pressure differences in dual compressor chillers are provided. To achieve the efficiency benefits of series flow chillers within a single unit, an evaporator and/or a condenser may be partitioned into separate chambers by a baffle. Process fluid may then flow through one chamber of the evaporator and/or condenser prior to entering the other. This configuration creates a pressure differential between chambers which may reduce compressor head and result in greater chiller efficiency. However, to maintain the structural integrity of the evaporator and/or condenser baffle, a system for limiting this pressure differential may be employed. This system may include an evaporator pressure equalization valve, a common liquid line, or an equalizing line between separate liquid lines. Methods of operating dual compressor chillers using these systems are also provided. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120105195 | WIRELESS TRANSCEIVER WITH RECALL INDICATOR - The invention is a wireless control system and method for wireless control of a remote electronic system from a vehicle. A trainable transceiver is configured to receive a feedback signal from a remote electronic system indicating success or failure of a requested operation. The feedback signal, which may include status information, is stored in memory of the wireless control system for retrieval at a later period. In response to the retrieved feedback signal and status, the control system may recall that status information and/or reissue a wireless control signal to the remote electronic system. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104784 | TRIM PANEL FOR A VEHICLE - This invention relates to a trim panel ( | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103005 | SCREW CHILLER ECONOMIZER SYSTEM - Screw chillers have economizer systems that include a low pressure economizer and a high pressure economizer. According to certain embodiments, the low pressure economizer includes a flash tank, an expansion device and a flow control valve while the high pressure economizer includes a heat exchanger and an expansion device. The screw chillers also include a screw compressor that compresses refrigerant. The screw compressor includes a low pressure economizer port designed to receive lower pressure refrigerant from the flash tank within the low pressure economizer and a high pressure economizer port designed to receive higher pressure refrigerant from the heat exchanger within the higher pressure economizer. The screw compressor is designed to compress the refrigerant received from the evaporator, the refrigerant received through the low pressure economizer port, and the refrigerant received through the high pressure economizer port and to discharge the refrigerant through a common discharge. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120100876 | HANDS FREE TELEPHONE SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED TEXT MESSAGING CONFIGURATION - The invention relates to a communication system for in-vehicle systems, and in particular, to a wireless communication system for a hands free telephone system configured to received text messages. A remote source, such as a cell phone, PDA or the like, is used to modify, configure and add new messages and preference data on the communication system. The modified, configured and new messages are used to respond to messages received on the remote source and/or on the communication system. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120100011 | CONTROL SYSTEM - A control system is provided that can identify the occurrence of a single surge cycle in centrifugal compressor using various methods and devices. Once the occurrence of a single surge cycle is identified, the control system can take remedial action to respond to the surge cycle, such as by adjusting the position of a variable geometry diffuser, and restore the centrifugal compressor to stable operation. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120098288 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE FROM A CONDUCTIVE INTERIOR TRIM COMPONENT - A vehicle interior assembly includes an electronic sub-assembly and a conductive interior trim component at least partially disposed about the electronic sub-assembly. The conductive interior trim component is electrically coupled to a conductive structure at a reference potential. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120096695 | METHOD OF MAKING A BATTERY PLATE - A battery grid includes a grid network having a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements. Each grid wire element has opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes, each node includes a juncture of one of one of the opposed ends of the plurality of grid wire elements, to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. In various embodiments, at least one of the grid wire elements has a first transverse cross-section intermediate its opposed ends that is a different shape than a second transverse cross-section at at least one of the grid wire element's opposed ends. In various embodiments, the battery grid also includes a lead alloy coating on substantially all of the grid wire elements, wherein the lead alloy coating is exposed to an inert gas during the coating of the grid wire elements. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120069444 | INTERIOR REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED INDICATOR SYMBOL - This invention relates to mirror assemblies for vehicles and in particular to interior rearview minor assemblies having touch screen inputs corresponding to elements representing a symbol. The symbols are located behind a reflective element and not visible until activated by selection of the corresponding input or other means. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068839 | INTERIOR REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED INDICATOR SYMBOL - This invention relates to interior rearview mirror assemblies for vehicles and to interior rearview mirror assemblies without a frame or bezel having inputs corresponding to elements representing a symbol. The symbols are located behind a reflective element and not visible until activated by selection of the corresponding input or other means. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120064413 | BATTERY GRID - A grid network for a battery plate is provided. The grid network includes a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements, each grid wire element having opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes. Each node includes the juncture of one of the opposed ends of a plurality of the grid wire elements to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. At least one of the grid wire elements has a first transverse cross-section intermediate its opposed ends that is a different shape than a second transverse cross-section at least one of the grid wire element's opposed ends. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120063918 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING CLEARANCE OF MECHANICAL BACK-UP BEARINGS OF TURBOMACHINERY UTILIZING ELECTROMAGNETIC BEARINGS - Apparatus and method for determining the clearance and wear of mechanical back-up bearings of turbomachinery utilizing electromagnetic bearings. In order to reduce the prospects of catastrophic failure during a shut-down or loss of electrical power, a rotating apparatus utilizes the electromagnetic bearings to manipulate the shaft to measure the clearance of the mechanical back-up bearings. When power is restored, a programmable controller provides power to the electromagnetic bearings to automatically move the shaft in accordance with a predetermined sequence to contact the mechanical back-up bearings to determine the clearance of the mechanical back-up bearings. These values are stored in the controller memory. The measured clearance is compared to prior clearance measurements of the mechanical back-up bearings to determine the wear of the back-up bearings. The actual wear is compared to the allowable wear for the bearings. If actual wear exceeds a predetermined value, a warning is generated. If the actual wear equals or exceeds the allowable wear, the controller automatically locks the turbomachinery from further operation until repair or replacement is accomplished. Otherwise, the controller centers the shaft to permit normal operation of the turbomachinery. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120062010 | ROTATING HEAD RESTS - A head rest for a seat assembly includes a rotation mechanism that allows the head rest to rotate with respect to the seat assembly. The rotation mechanism may allow the head rest to incline when in a raised position to provide clearance for an occupant seated in the seat assembly. The rotation mechanism also may allow the head rest to rotate outward from the seat assembly when in a lowered position to displace the occupant with respect to the seat assembly. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120058394 | BATTERY GRID - A grid network for a battery plate is provided. The grid network includes a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements, each grid wire element having opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes. Each node includes the juncture of one of the opposed ends of a plurality of the grid wire elements to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. At least one of the grid wire elements has a first transverse cross-section intermediate its opposed ends that is a different shape than a second transverse cross-section at at least one of the grid wire element's opposed ends. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055465 | CONDENSATE PAN WITH CONDENSATE TRAP - A condensate pan for a condensing furnace includes a main chamber to receive exhaust gases, a condensate trap separate from the main chamber and internal the condensate pan and a main drain. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120038201 | SEAT STRUCTURE - CHAMFERED MOUNTING OF COMPENSATING FLOOR LATCHES - The present invention relates to a floor latch ( | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038200 | FASTENER - A fastener, such as for coupling a trim cover to a seat, including an elongated body portion; a first end extending from the elongated body portion to define a connecting structure having a substantially J-shape, a middle portion between the elongated body portion and the first end, and a receiving space there between for receiving a structure; a second end extending distally from the elongated body portion for attachment to the trim cover; and wherein the connecting structure includes an arcuate hook shaped to define a barb pointing outward and a planar surface pointing inward for retaining the fastener on the structure. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120032486 | VEHICLE SEAT CONSTRUCTION - A seat construction for providing a seat back or base support, such as for a seat back, includes a planar member and an elastomeric fastener. The planar member is positioned on a portion of the seat and stretched thereon to create tension on the planar member and for providing structural support for an occupant of the seat. The elastomeric fastener is coupled to the planar member and to the seat for fastening the flexible planar member to the seat and maintaining the tension on the planar member. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031601 | MULTICHANNEL TUBES WITH DEFORMABLE WEBS - The present disclosure is directed to multichannel tubes that can be expanded to assemble the multichannel tubes within plate fin heat exchangers. The multichannel tubes each include several generally parallel flow paths, which are separated from one another by deformable webs slanted in a common direction across a width of the multichannel tubes. The webs may deform upon expansion of the tubes with a high pressure fluid. During expansion, the webs may stretch, shift positions, and/or change shape to allow the outer dimensions of the tube to increase. The multichannel tubes may be designed to expand to fill openings of plate fins, creating an interference fit between the multichannel tubes and the plate fins. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120027632 | COMPRESSOR WITH A BYPASS PORT - A system is provided for adjusting the volume ratio of a screw compressor. The system can use a port in a rotor cylinder to bypass vapor from the compression chamber to the discharge passage of the compressor. A valve can be used to open or close the port to obtain different volume ratios in the compressor. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024413 | THREE-WAY STRUCTURE - The disclosure provides a three-way structure, including a straight tube and a branch tube perpendicular to and connected with the straight tube, is characterized in that the inner surface of the straight tube is provided with a hollow structure surrounding the straight tube. The three-way structure of the disclosure can both attenuate the noise and simplify the pipeline arrangement of the unit. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120017397 | HINGE ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLE INTERIOR TRIM COMPONENT - A hinge assembly is provided that includes a follower and a cam disposed adjacent to the follower. The cam is capable of translating relative to the follower along a vertical direction and rotating relative to the follower about a rotational axis. The hinge assembly also includes an axle disposed through the cam to facilitate rotation of the cam about the rotational axis. The axle is configured to bias the cam toward the follower along the vertical direction. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120001049 | LATCH MECHANISM | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110315364 | MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGER TUBES WITH FLOW PATH INLET SECTIONS - The present disclosure is directed to multichannel tubes with flow path inlet sections that allow refrigerant to enter the flow paths through an outer wall of the multichannel tubes. In certain embodiments, a portion of the outer wall is removed to expose the flow paths to a distribution chamber within an inlet manifold divided into an inlet section and a distribution section by a distributor. According to certain embodiments, the inlet section may be designed to have a relatively small cross-sectional area that promotes mixed phase flow of liquid and vapor refrigerant. The multichannel tubes extend into the distribution section to partition the distribution section into a series of distribution chambers defined by a pair of adjacent tubes, the distributor, and the inlet manifold. Within each distribution chamber, the refrigerant may be directed into the multichannel tubes through the flow path inlet sections of the multichannel tubes. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315363 | MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGERS EMPLOYING FLOW DISTRIBUTION MANIFOLDS - The present disclosure is directed to heat exchangers with flow distribution manifolds divided into an inlet section and a distribution section by a distributor. The inlet section may have a relatively small cross-sectional area that promotes mixed phase flow of liquid and vapor refrigerant. The manifolds may be used with multichannel tubes with flow path inlet sections that allow refrigerant to enter the flow paths through an outer wall of the tubes. In certain embodiments, a portion of the outer wall is removed to expose the flow paths to a distribution chamber within the inlet manifold. The multichannel tubes extend into the distribution section to partition the distribution section into a series of distribution chambers defined by a pair of adjacent tubes, the distributor, and the inlet manifold. Within each distribution chamber, the refrigerant may be directed into the multichannel tubes through the inlet sections of the multichannel tubes. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313656 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING VEHICLE OPERATING DATA TO AN EXTERNAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM - A vehicle information system is provided that includes an interface module configured to receive operating data from a vehicle information system. The interface module is also configured to transfer the operating data to a navigation system that is not built-in to the vehicle to facilitate vehicle position determination without using external positioning signals received or processed by the vehicle. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311876 | ELECTRICAL POWER STORAGE DEVICES - An electrical storage device includes high surface area fibers (e.g., shaped fibers and/or microfibers) coated with carbon (graphite, expanded graphite, activated carbon, carbon black, carbon nanofibers, CNT, or graphite coated CNT), electrolyte, and/or electrode active material (e.g., lead oxide) in electrodes. The electrodes are used to form electrical storage devices such as electrochemical batteries, electrochemical double layer capacitors, and asymmetrical capacitors. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309650 | COLLAPSIBLE SEAT - A collapsible seat assembly providing a compact size in the stowed position. The seat assembly has a reduced overall height in the stowed position, and an articulated bolster and lumbar supports which provides a reduced compact size of the seat in the stowed position. A cover may extend over the seat in the stowed position. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309604 | AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM - An airbag deployment control system for use in a vehicle seat having a trim cover. The airbag deployment control system includes an upper outer liner member having a first end for coupling to an airbag module and a second end for coupling to the trim cover, and a lower outer liner member having a first end for coupling to the airbag module and a second end for coupling to the trim cover. The trim cover is for covering at least a portion of the vehicle seat and the airbag module. The trim cover includes a burst seam for the airbag member to deploy through the trim cover by rupturing at the burst seam upon inflation of the airbag member. The upper outer liner member and the lower outer liner member control deployment of the inflatable airbag member at least two locations. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110301954 | METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A VOICE RECOGNITION SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPEAKER AND A MICROPHONE, AND VOICE RECOGNITION SYSTEM - A method for adjusting a voice recognition system and a voice recognition system is disclosed, wherein the voice recognition system comprises a speaker and a microphone, and wherein the method comprises the steps of:
| 12-08-2011 |
| 20110300006 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COOLING A COMPRESSOR MOTOR - Apparatus and methods are provided for cooling motors used to drive gas and air compressors. In particular, the cooling of hermetic and semi-hermetic motors is accomplished by a gas sweep using a gas source located in the low-pressure side of a gas compression circuit. The gas sweep is provided by the creation of a pressure reduction at the compressor inlet sufficient to draw uncompressed gas through a motor housing, across the motor, and out of the housing for return to the suction assembly. The pressure reduction is created by means provided in the suction assembly, such as a nozzle and gap assembly, or alternatively a venturi, located upstream of the compressor inlet. Additional motor cooling can be provided by circulating liquid or another cooling fluid through a cooling jacket in the motor housing portion adjacent the motor. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110289951 | THERMOSYPHON COOLERS FOR COOLING SYSTEMS WITH COOLING TOWERS - In one embodiment, a cooling system may include a thermosyphon cooler that cools a cooling fluid through dry cooling and a cooling tower that cools a cooling fluid through evaporative cooling. The thermosyphon cooler may use natural convection to circulate a refrigerant between a shell and tube evaporator and an air cooled condenser. The thermosyphon cooler may be located in the cooling system upstream of, and in series with, the cooling tower, and may be operated when the thermosyphon cooler is more economically and/or resource efficient to operate than the cooling tower. According to certain embodiments, factors, such as the ambient temperature, the cost of electricity, and the cost of water, among others, may be used to determine whether to operate the thermosyphon cooler, the cooling tower, or both. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110281076 | Natural Fiber Trim Panel - A trim panel formed from natural fibers and a protective material, and a method of forming the trim panel. The natural fibers are environmentally-friendly and the protective material may be sufficiently adhered to the natural fibers without the use of hot melts or adhesives. The protective material is configured to be permeable to gasses and water vapor during application and once applied impermeable to UV light and liquids such as water and soda. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277521 | MECHANICAL MODULE FOR A VEHICLE KEY, AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME - The present invention relates to a key ( | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110272980 | Electrical Connection Protection Unit - A vehicle seat having a seat with an upper seatback and a headrest including various electronic components. A connector sleeve is configured to fit within a guide sleeve on the seat to allow an electrical connector extending from the headrest to be easily and efficiently connected to an opposing electrical connector extending from the seat during assembly. The connector may be configured to maintain electrical connection between the connected electrical connectors when a removal force is applied. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110262808 | BATTERY GRID - A battery grid includes a frame that includes a top element, a bottom element, a first side element, and a second side element. The battery grid also includes a plurality of wires provided within the frame and defining a plurality of open areas and a current collection lug extending from the top element in a first direction. The battery grid further includes at least one feature provided in the battery grid that is configured to reduce the amount of growth of the battery grid in the first direction due to corrosion of the battery grid during the life of the battery grid. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110261970 | NOISE MODIFYING OVERHEAD AUDIO SYSTEM - An overhead audio system for use in a vehicle, the overhead audio system includes multiplexor for receiving an input signal from a plurality of audio sources and for transmitting an output signal; a noise detection sensor for detecting a noise and providing noise data; an audio processor for processing the output signal received from the multiplexor and for receiving the noise data from the noise detection sensor, wherein the audio processor processes the output signal based on the noise data and transmits the processed output signal to a speaker; and wherein the overhead audio system is housed within a headliner of the vehicle. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110260514 | Vehicle Seat - A rear seat of a vehicle which allows controlled reclining of the seat as well as folding the seatback to a stowed position. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110250845 | Communication System And Method - A communication system and method in which the communication system comprises a first communication module ( | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110248866 | Communication System And Method - The invention relates to a communication system and a communication method, the communication system comprises a first communication module ( | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110241371 | Transparent/Translucent Flexible Component For A Vehicle Interior - A storage component | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110233951 | VEHICLE SEATING SYSTEM AND CABIN - A passenger seating system ( | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110217929 | METHOD FOR USING A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM CONNECTED TO A PLURALITY OF MOBILE DEVICES AND PRIORITIZING THE MOBILE DEVICES, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND USE THEREOF - A method and a communication system is disclosed for using a communication system connected to at least a first mobile device and a second mobile device, wherein the communication system is operable in at least a first operating state and a second operating state, wherein the connection of the communication system to the first mobile device is prioritized in the first operating state and wherein the connection of the communication system to the second mobile device is prioritized in the second operating state. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110215628 | SEATING SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A positioning system is provided for moving a seat back in a vehicle, between a seating position and a cargo storage position. The positioning system includes a release mechanism actuatable between a first position to permit movement of the seat back and a second position to prevent movement of the seat back. A first actuator is provided on the seat back near an upper corner of the seat back and a second actuator is provided on the seat back near a lower corner of the seat back, so that the seat back can be moved from the cargo storage position to the seating position by a person actuating the first actuator from a location alongside the vehicle and by a person actuating the second actuator from a location behind the vehicle | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110204720 | EFFICIENT USAGE, STORAGE, AND SHARING OF ENERGY IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, AND EQUIPMENT - The present disclosure relates generally to energy demand and supply for buildings, vehicles, and equipment. In exemplary embodiments, energy may be stored in one or more battery packs (e.g., stationary batteries or vehicle batteries) for use in buildings, appliances, and equipment typically relying on energy from a power grid. The exemplary embodiments may store the energy during periods of low demand and/or low cost of energy. Thus, the exemplary embodiments may reduce costs associated with energy usage. The exemplary embodiments may use the stored energy to reduce demand on the power utility during periods of high demand and/or provide energy back to the power utility to meet demands. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110204692 | RECLINER MECHANISM ACTUATOR - A recliner mechanism for use in a seat assembly of a vehicle, the recliner mechanism comprising a cam stop member coupled to the seat assembly; a cam bracket pivotably coupled to the seat assembly; a catch lever pivotably coupled to the seat assembly; a release crank member coupled to the catch lever; a cable member coupled to the cam bracket and to the cushion pivot bracket; and wherein rotation of the seat assembly via the cushion pivot bracket causes the cable to wind about the cam of the cushion pivot bracket such that the first end of the cable member pulls an actuates the cam bracket causing the cam bracket to rotate against the pin catch lever causing the catch lever to actuate the release crank member to release the recliner mechanism and thereby enable reconfiguration of the seat assembly from a first position to a second position. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110199182 | SENSOR ACTUATED STORAGE COMPARTMENT - A storage compartment is provided that includes a sensor configured to generate a signal based on presence of an activating object. The storage compartment also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and configured to detect an object adjacent to the storage compartment based on the signal. The storage compartment further includes an actuator communicatively coupled to the controller and configured to release a securing feature of the storage compartment when the controller detects the object adjacent to the storage compartment. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110197618 | MULTI-STAGE HEAT EXCHANGER - A refrigeration system that utilizes both an air-cooled heat exchanger and a cooling tower to cool refrigerant prior to the refrigerant being provided to the evaporator. This multi-stage cooling permits the refrigeration system to operate with improved efficiency, while reducing the amount of water lost to evaporative cooling in the cooling tower, since the thermal load handled by the cooling tower is reduced by the air-cooled heat exchanger. This in turn means less water is required to replace water lost to evaporative cooling. In arid regions or regions of low water quality, both efficiency increase and reduction of water lost to evaporative cooling are important improvements. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110192582 | MULTI-SLAB MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGER - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and multi-slab heat exchangers are provided that include fluid connections for transmitting fluid between groups of tubes. The fluid connections may include generally tubular members fluidly connected to manifold sections. The fluid connections also may include partitioned manifolds containing tubes of different heights. Multichannel tubes are also provided that include a bent section configured to locate a flow path near a leading edge of a tube within one section and near a trailing edge of the tube within another section. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110192188 | HEAT EXCHANGER HAVING STACKED COIL SECTIONS - A heat exchanger is provided with stacked coil sections. Each of the stacked coil sections is configured to circulate a fluid independent from the other coil section. An air moving device is used to circulate air through both of the stacked coil sections. The stacked coil sections are positioned to have the air exiting the one coil section entering the other coil section. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110182052 | POINTER STRUCTURE OF AN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - Instrument cluster and pointing device for a car or other vehicle, the pointing device being mounted rotatable about a rotation axis and having a shaft element in the vicinity of the rotation axis, the pointing device further comprising at least one of a light guide element or a mirror element in the region of the shaft element and comprising one of an image forming element or an aperture, wherein the one of the image forming element or the aperture and the one of the light guide element or the mirror element are able to be rotated about the rotational axis with the shaft element, and wherein light incident to the shaft element is directed from the one of the light guide element or the mirror element to the image forming element or aperture and projecting to a visible surface. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110177375 | REINFORCED BATTERY SEPARATOR - Separators for use in batteries are disclosed. In various embodiments, the separators include one or more of raised shoulders, ribs in three or more sizes, thickened mini-ribs on shoulders, and ribs within the shoulder. The disclosed separators are more resistant to failure due to punctures or tears than conventional separators. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110163587 | SEAT FRAME - TAILORED TUBES - A frame for a vehicle seat assembly includes a tubular member having a plurality of tubular segments coupled together. The tubular segments have a plurality of properties which vary from one tubular segment to another, the properties that vary include, thickness, length, shape, material type, material grade, outer diameter, and inside diameter. At least one of the properties of at least one of the segments is different from at least one of the properties of the other segments. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110163582 | FOLDING SEAT - A dual front linkage system for a adjusting a vehicle seat includes a seat sub-frame member, a first linkage member, a second linkage member, and a base member. The first end of the seat sub-frame member is coupled to the second end of the first linkage member and the second end of the seat sub-frame member is coupled to the seat base, the first end of the first linkage member is coupled to the first end of the second linkage member, the second end of the second linkage member is coupled to the first end of the base member, and the second end of the base member is coupled to the vehicle. The linkage system enables the seat base and seat back to be folded forward and downward into a stowed position and allows the seat to be tumbled forward to enhance vehicle ingress and egress. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110162746 | OIL BALANCE DEVICE, A COMPRESSOR UNIT AND A METHOD FOR PERFORMING AN OIL BALANCE OPERATION BETWEEN A PLURALITY OF COMPRESSOR UNITS - The present invention disclosures an oil balance device and a method for performing an oil balance operation between a plurality of compressor units, which are suitable for air conditioner units comprising at least two parallel connected compressor units. Each compressor unit comprises at least one parallel connected compressors. The oil balance device comprises an oil reservoir, a first pipe, a second pipe, a third pipe and a fourth pipe. The four pipes communicate with the oil reservoir respectively. Each pipe is provided with at least one valve to control the opening and the closing of the corresponding pipe. The first valve and the fourth valve are closed and the second valve and the third valve are opened if the compressor unit is in normal operation; the first valve and the fourth valve are opened and the second valve and the third valve are closed if the compressor unit supplies oil; the second valve and the fourth valve are opened and the first valve and the third valve are closed, or the third valve and the fourth valve are opened and the first valve and the second valve are closed, if the compressor unit receives oil. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110159369 | BATTERY PLATE - A battery grid includes a grid network having a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements. Each grid wire element has opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes, each node includes a juncture of one of one of the opposed ends of the plurality of grid wire elements, to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. In various embodiments, at least one of the grid wire elements has a first transverse cross-section intermediate its opposed ends that is a different shape than a second transverse cross-section at at least one of the grid wire element's opposed ends. In various embodiments, the battery grid also includes a lead alloy coating on substantially all of the grid wire elements, wherein the lead alloy coating is exposed to an inert gas during the coating of the grid wire elements. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110156461 | WELDABLE ATTACHMENT MECHANISMS - Attachment mechanisms are provided that may be riveted on one end and welded on another flanged end. The flanges may allow the rivets to be welded to a frame or other part without additional support plates. In certain embodiments, the rivets may simplify manufacturing and packaging as well as reduce the weight of the attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanisms may promote load distribution, allow for the use of thinner materials, facilitate attachment to heat treated materials, allow for attachment of parts that are difficult to access, reduce fixturing, and improve manufacturing efficiency, among other things. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110147181 | THREE DIMENSIONAL GRAPHICS WITH CHANGING APPEARANCES - The invention provides a button for an interior of a vehicle, a method of using a graphic on a button to indicate the current status or configuration of the button and/or a device the button controls, and a method of making a button with changing appearances, the button comprising a non-mechanical switch and the button comprising means for backlighting of at least two different colors, the button further comprising at least two band-pass filters ( | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110147051 | CAPACITIVE SWITCH SENSORS ON DECORATIVE IN-MOLD FILMS BACKGROUND - This invention is related to process for the production of a interior trim piece, comprising the steps of: —providing a film layer—applying conductive ink/paint to the back surface of the film layer to provide a circuit path and—attaching a substrate on the back surface of the film layer. This invention further relates to a interior trim piece comprising a film layer with a circuit path on its back surface, whereas the circuit path is made from conductive ink/paint. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110143188 | BATTERY STRAPS - The present disclosure relates to a battery for use in various applications including starting, lighting, and ignition and other purposes in vehicles such as automobiles and boats. The disclosed battery design includes a number of battery cell elements connected in series by a number of straps. The present disclosure describes a system of connecting the cells that minimizes the size and weight of the straps and increases the operating efficiency of the battery. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110141774 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE - Systems and methods for improved VSDs are provided. One embodiment relates to an apparatus for common mode and differential mode filtering for motor or compressor bearing protection when operating with VSDs, including conducted EMI/RFI input power mains mitigation. Another embodiment relates to a method to extend the synchronous operation of an Active Converter to the AC mains voltage during complete line dropout. Another embodiment relates to an Active Converter-based Variable Speed Drive system with Improved Full Speed Efficiency. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110132587 | Multichannel Evaporator with Flow Mixing Manifold - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided which include manifold configurations designed to promote mixing of vapor phase and liquid phase refrigerant. The manifolds contain flow mixers such as a helical tape, sectioned volumes, and partitions containing apertures. The flow mixers direct the flow of refrigerant within the manifold to promote a more homogenous distribution of fluid within the multichannel tubes. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110126559 | CONTROL SYSTEM - A vapor compression system that circulates a fluid through a closed loop interconnecting a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a flow-restricting expansion device, and a second heat exchanger. The system further includes a vessel in a first fluid communication and a selective second fluid communication with the loop between the compressor and the first heat exchanger with each of the first and second fluid communication configured to receive fluid from the loop. The vessel is in a third fluid communication with the first heat exchanger configured to provide fluid to the first heat exchanger. In response to a predetermined ambient temperature surrounding the system, the second fluid communication is selectively opened to provide an increased fluid flow from the vessel to the first heat exchanger. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110120181 | FALLING FILM EVAPORATOR - An evaporator for use in a refrigeration system includes a shell and a tube bundle, the tube bundle having a plurality of tubes extending substantially horizontally in the shell. A hood is disposed over and laterally surrounds substantially all of the plurality of tubes of the tube bundle. A distributor is positioned between the hood and the tube bundle. The hood is asymmetrically disposed within the evaporator. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110109111 | LASER ETCHED TRIM - The present invention relates to a process for the production of a trim cover and the cover of a trim interior itself. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110105011 | SHEET METAL FRAME FOR ACCESS DOOR - An access door assembly for use in an air-handling unit provides a structural member that prevents over-compression of gaskets by the access door panel for improved gasket life and effectiveness and increases the thermal efficiency properties or the air-handling unit. The access door assembly has a “Z” shaped cross-section and includes a gasket channel and an anti-compression leg having a rim to prevent over compression of the gasket located in the gasket channel. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110101907 | GROUNDING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A grounding system for a semiconductor module of a variable speed drive includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer; a substrate disposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and a base attached to the second conductive layer, the base being connected to earth ground via a grounding harness. The first conductive layer is in electrical contact with the semiconductor module and the substrate, and electrically insulated from the second conductive layer by the substrate. The second conductive layer is in electrical contact with the substrate and disposed between the substrate and the base in electrical communication with an earth ground. The first conductive layer, the substrate and the second conductive layer form a capacitance path between the semiconductor module and the base as well as electrical conductors and the base for reduction circulating currents within the semiconductor module. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110099910 | VEHICLE DOOR HAVING A SEALING PLANE AND HAVING A SEALING ELEMENT WHOSE ENDS OVERLAP - Proposed is a vehicle door having a sealing plane ( | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110089736 | Seat Recliner Mechanism With Fold-Flat Feature - A vehicular seat assembly ( | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088883 | MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGER WITH IMPROVED FLOW DISTRIBUTION - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube configurations designed to reduce refrigerant pressure drop through a heat exchanger manifold. In certain embodiments, tubes inserted within the manifold adjacent to a refrigerant inlet have non-rectangular or recessed end profiles configured to increase flow area near the inlet, thereby reducing a pressure drop through the manifold. In further embodiments, insertion depths of the tubes within the manifold vary based on distance from the inlet. This configuration may establish a larger flow area adjacent to the inlet, thus reducing the pressure drop and increasing heat exchanger efficiency. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110083454 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR OPERATING CONDENSER FANS - Methods and systems for controlling the operation of condenser fans are provided. At most discharge pressures, the operation of the condenser fans may be controlled based on a capacity of the compressor system. To adjust operation of the condenser fans, the speed of the fans and/or the number or operational fans may be adjusted. The control of the condenser fans based on compressor system capacity may be overridden at compressor discharge pressures that rise above a high pressure level and fall below a low pressure level. At the high and low discharge pressures, the fan speed and/or number of operating fans may be adjusted based solely on the discharge pressure rather than on the compressor system capacity. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110076131 | METHOD FOR DETECTING ROTATING STALL IN A COMPRESSOR - A system and method is provided for detecting and controlling rotating stall in the diffuser region of a compressor. A pressure transducer is placed in the gas flow path downstream of the impeller, preferably in the compressor discharge passage or the diffuser, to measure the sound or acoustic pressure phenomenon. Next, the signal from the pressure transducer is processed either using analog or digital techniques to determine the presence of rotating stall. Rotating stall is detected by comparing the detected energy amount, which detected energy amount is based on the measured acoustic pressure, with a predetermined threshold amount corresponding to the presence of rotating stall. Finally, an appropriate corrective action is taken to change the operation of the compressor in response to the detection of rotating stall. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110075702 | THERMAL SENSING EQUIPMENT AND THERMAL SENSING PROCESS - A thermal fluid having a fluid that includes a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds having the following general formulas: | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110062945 | DEVICE FOR MEASURING A CURRENT FLOWING IN A CABLE - An exemplary embodiment relates to a measuring device for measuring a current flowing in a first cable. The measuring device includes a measuring shunt in the form of a plate connected in series with the first cable and associated with a measuring electronic card connected to a data transmission cable. The measuring shunt further includes a measuring portion of resistive alloy coupled to connection portions on either side of the measuring portion. The connection portions are integrally formed with the measuring portion, and the first cable is secured to at least one of the connection portions of the measuring shunt. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110062761 | PIVOT RETAINER - A reconfigurable seat assembly ( | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110059667 | COVER WITH A SPRAY ON FABRIC - The present invention relates to a process for the production of a car interior part with a base layer and a fabric layer and a car interior part comprising these layers. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110057495 | Seat Headrest - A seat assembly having headrest that includes an expansion assembly that operates to expand the cushion when the headrest is in the lower position. As the headrest is raised, the expansion assembly retracts, removing the bulge and creating a more planar surface for comfortably resting the head of a seat occupant. The headrest is also configured to reduce expansion of flatten as the seatback is folded flat. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110056664 | VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A distributor for use in a vapor compression system including an enclosure configured to be positioned in a heat exchanger having a tube bundle comprising a plurality of tubes extending substantially horizontally in the heat exchanger. A plurality of distribution devices are formed in the enclosure, the plurality of distribution devices configured to apply a fluid entering the distributor onto the tube bundle. The enclosure is formed of unitary construction. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110048046 | CONTROL SYSTEM - A system for controlling a centrifugal gas compressor ( | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110043006 | ENTERTAINMENT SEAT - An entertainment seat ( | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110037243 | VEHICULAR TRIM APPLICATIONS USING FILM ADHESIVE IN LIEU OF STITCHING - A vehicle seat configured to retain an air bag. The vehicle seat uses selective use of adhesive tape in place of stitching to provide easier manufacturing, lower cost, improved durability and easier repairs, as well as having the adhesive tape be configured to rupture as needed in response to activation of the air bag. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110030932 | MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGER FINS - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include nubbed, collared, and/or flapped fins. In certain embodiments, the fins include openings or slots with protrusions for spacing multichannel tubes from the fins. During assembly, the protrusions may be deformed by the tubes. Braze alloy may be positioned in the gaps created by the protrusions to affix the multichannel tubes to the fins. In other embodiments, the fins include flaps or collars designed to interface with the multichannel tubes. In these embodiments, the tubes may be expanded into the fins. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110022274 | VEHICLE SEAT POWER TRACK ENHANCEMENTS - A vehicle seat power track for an automobile vehicle seat which includes a sensor arrangement to detect the seat position along the track relative to a front airbag apparatus and generate a signal to control the apparatus of the airbag. The vehicle seat power track also includes brackets configured to reduce horizontal movement of the track components. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017432 | COMPACT EVAPORATOR FOR CHILLERS - A compact evaporator including a suction baffle system is provided for use in a refrigeration system. The suction baffle system includes a suction baffle and a passageway. The suction baffle includes a plurality of walls and is adjacent to the interior wall of shell. The passageway extends below one of the walls of the suction baffle toward the lower portion of the shell and is adjacent to the interior wall of the shell. A suction tube having an inlet is attached to the evaporator shell and the inlet is adjacent to the passageway and located partially below the suction baffle. The passageway minimizes the possibility of liquid carry-over in the suction tube that feeds into the compressor. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110011105 | OIL SEPARATOR - An oil separator for use in separating oil from refrigerant gas in a chiller system is provided. Its operation is based on centrifugal separation principles and does not require the use any type of filter or media pack to remove oil from refrigerant gas. The oil separator includes a non-circular (e.g., elliptical) refrigerant outlet pipe that transitions the linear flow from the inlet connection to a swirling (e.g., circular) flow within the cylindrical housing. The non-circular shape of the entrance to the refrigerant outlet pipe provides for more turbulent gas flow and a greater extraction of oil as well as minimization of pressure losses. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110006575 | VEHICLE SEAT - A vehicle seat ( | 01-13-2011 |
| 20100326108 | VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - An evaporator ( | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100321944 | DETENT SPRING AND END CAP STRUCTURES FOR A VISOR VANITY - A vanity has a mirror and a cover panel that slides between an open position to reveal the mirror and a closed position to conceal the minor. The vanity includes an improved detent mechanism that is usable to maintain the cover panel in the open position, closed position and/or other positions A light source may be provided adjacent the mirror to illuminate an object to be viewed in the minor The vanity can be positioned in a visor that is attached to the vehicle using a slide-on-rod, where the visor rotates around the slide-on-rod between up and down positions The vanity can include an end cap assembly that activates and deactivates the light source depending on both the rotational position of the visor and the lateral position of the cover panel. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319395 | HEAT EXCHANGER - An heat exchanger for use in a vapor compression system is disclosed and includes a shell, a first tube bundle, a hood and a distributor. The first tube bundle includes a plurality of tubes extending substantially horizontally in the shell. The hood covers the first tube bundle. The distributor is configured and positioned to distribute fluid onto at least one tube of the plurality of tubes. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100307191 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ROTOR COOLING - A motor coolant method and system is used to cool a compressor motor ( | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100304219 | BATTERY GRID - A grid network for a battery plate is provided. The grid network includes a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements, each grid wire element having opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes. Each node includes the juncture of one of the opposed ends of a plurality of the grid wire elements to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. At least one of the grid wire elements has a first transverse cross-section intermediate its opposed ends that is a different shape than a second transverse cross-section at at least one of the grid wire element's opposed ends. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100300134 | REFRIGERANT DISTRIBUTION DEVICE FOR REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - The invention provides a refrigerant distribution device for refrigeration system which is capable of improving heat exchange efficiency, comprising: an entering duct, a bottom cover plate, a core, a hollow cylinder, an upper cover plate and multi-branch ducts. The core is disposed in the space formed by the bottom cover plate, the cylinder and the upper cover plate, wherein a plurality of openings are distributed on the core. The refrigerant distribution device according to the invention is capable of realizing uniform distribution and allocation of refrigerant in refrigeration system, and improving heat exchange efficiency of the refrigeration system. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100291369 | POLYURETHANE FOAM FORMULATION, PRODUCTS AND METHODS - A foam article for use in a seat cushion includes an open cell, polyurethane foam material that includes a base polyol; a crosslinker; an isocyanate; a surfactant; and water, that are reacted together to produce a seat cushion having dynamic and static performance specifications that are better than the performance characteristics for a traditional, high resilient material seat cushion, as well as other seating materials. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100276130 | HEAT EXCHANGER - A vapor compression system including a heat exchanger and a heat exchanger for use in a vapor compression system, the heat exchanger including a shell ( | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100275643 | HEAT EXCHANGER - The disclosure is directed to a component ( | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100269524 | VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A method and system for controlling operation of a vapor compression system ( | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100266903 | BATTERY GRID - A battery grid includes a frame that includes a top element, a bottom element, a first side element, and a second side element. The battery grid also includes a plurality of wires provided within the frame and defining a plurality of open areas and a current collection lug extending from the top element in a first direction. The battery grid further includes at least one feature provided in the battery grid that is configured to reduce the amount of growth of the battery grid in the first direction due to corrosion of the battery grid during the life of the battery grid. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100255379 | BATTERY PLATE - A battery grid includes a grid network bordered by a frame element and includes a plurality of spaced apart grid wire elements. Each grid wire element has opposed ends joined to one of a plurality of nodes to define a plurality of open spaces in the grid network. In various embodiments, at least a portion of a plurality of the grid wire elements are deformed such that the deformed grid wire elements have a first transverse cross-section at a point intermediate their opposed ends that differs from a second transverse cross-section taken at least one of their opposed ends. In various embodiments, the battery grid also includes a lead alloy coating applied to the battery grid, and a battery paste applied to the battery grid. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100254845 | COMPRESSOR - A system is provided for controlling the balance piston pressure in a screw compressor. The system can use the slide valve of the compressor as a valve to control the flow of fluid from a fluid source to the balance piston. When the slide valve prevents direct flow between the fluid source and the balance piston, an alternate path is used to provide fluid at a reduced pressure to the balance piston. The reduced pressure fluid is obtained by passing the fluid from the fluid source through an orifice to lower the fluid pressure. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100251742 | HVAC&R SYSTEM VALVING - An HVAC&R system is disclosed that utilizes energy-efficient valving. The valving controls the flow of refrigerant and may be adapted for evaporator or condenser applications, on both AC systems and heat pumps (as well as chillers and other refrigeration systems). The valving may provide simultaneous and individualized control of flow through individual coils or groups of coils for improved control of evaporation, condensation, defrosting and so forth. In some configurations a common sensor may be shared between individual coils or groups of coils and may provide sensed parameters to control circuitry for controlling the valving. Other configurations may include bypass valving to direct fluid around the flow control valving. In yet other configurations, a valve may be used to bypass tapped vapor around a heat exchanger functioning as an evaporator. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100250007 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A method or system for executing a control logic sequence for a device (chiller) includes using a device mounted internal microprocessor in data communication with the device, converting a software language representation of the control logic directly into a binary representation of the control logic; compiling the binary representation of the control logic directly by the device mounted internal microprocessor; loading the binary representation of the control logic dynamically into a random access memory portion of the internal microprocessor; and executing the binary formatted representation of the control logic to control the device according to the software language representation of the control logic. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100247361 | COMPRESSOR - A compressor is provided with a substantially cylindrical housing. Inside the housing is a motor housing having a substantially cylindrical shape and a compressor housing having a substantially cylindrical shape. The motor housing and the compressor housing are connected or fit into the housing with a frictional connection to prevent axial movement of the motor housing and the compressor housing. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100242533 | HEAT EXCHANGER - An heat exchanger for use in a vapor compression system is disclosed and includes a shell, a first tube bundle, a hood and a distributor. The first tube bundle includes a plurality of tubes extending substantially horizontally in the shell. The hood covers the first tube bundle. The distributor is configured and positioned to distribute fluid onto at least one tube of the plurality of tubes. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100242532 | FREE COOLING REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - A refrigeration system includes a chiller with an integrated free cooling system and refrigeration system. In certain embodiments, the chiller may be a single package unit with all equipment housed within the same support frame. The chiller may generally include three modes of operation: a first mode that employs free cooling, a second mode that employs free cooling and implements a refrigeration cycle, and a third mode that uses the free cooling system to remove heat from the refrigeration system. A heat exchanger may be shared between the free cooling system and the refrigeration system to transfer heat from the refrigeration system to the free cooling system. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100229580 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE - Systems and methods for improved Variable Speed Drives are provided. One embodiment relates to apparatus for common mode and differential mode filtering for motor or compressor bearing protection when operating with Variable Speed Drives, including conducted EMI/RFI input power mains mitigation. Another embodiment relates to a method to extend the synchronous operation of an active converter to the AC mains voltage during complete line dropout. Another embodiment relates to an active converter-based Variable Speed Drive system with Improved Full Speed Efficiency. Another embodiment relates to a liquid- or refrigerant-cooled inductor. The liquid- or refrigerant-cooled inductor may be used in any application where liquid or refrigerant cooling is available and a reduction in size and weight of a magnetic component is desired. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100225151 | VEHICLE SEAT ACTUATION MECHANISM - A seat for use in a vehicle having a seat back pivotably coupled to a seat base by a recliner mechanism such that the seat back can be pivoted in a forward and rearward direction relative the seat base. The seat also includes a track assembly coupled to the vehicle and the seat, such that the seat can be moved in the forward and rearward directions relative to the vehicle interior. The seat also includes an actuator mechanism having a first actuator, a second actuator, and an energy storage device for storing energy generated from movement of the seat and selectively releasing the stored energy to assist in repositioning the seat when at least one of the first actuator and second actuator is actuated. Actuating the first actuator causes the seat to move from a first position to a second position, and actuating the second actuator causes the seat to move from a first position to a third position. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100219674 | TAILOR WELDED SEAT AND COMPONENTS - A tailored vehicle seat component | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100211344 | Method for calibrating and/or correcting a display device having a needle, the needle being able to move in rotation about an axis of rotation - The present invention relates to a method and/or for correcting a display device having a needle, the needle being able to move in rotation about an axis of rotation and the needle being driven by means of a stepping motor, the calibration method comprising several measurements of differences between a value displayed and a value to be displayed, and a computation of a correction value as a function of the differences. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206028 | LOCK-ACTUATING KEY WITH IMPROVED IMPACT RESISTANCE - A key having one end secured to a yoke mounted between in a casing to turn about a pivot axis between a position in which the key is retracted inside the casing and a position in which the key is extended, and a control pushbutton mounted in a housing of the yoke so as to be constrained to pivot therewith and so as to slide between a position for holding the yoke at least in the retracted position, and a position for releasing the yoke for pivoting, the control pushbutton having at least one stud received in a groove of the housing, the groove including an inlet segment that opens out via a first end in an outer face of the yoke and that opens out via a second end in a terminal segment, forming an angle therewith, the terminal segment extending along the pivot axis. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100199714 | AUXILIARY COOLING SYSTEM - Air cooled chillers having a condenser section ( | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100178460 | MULTI-FINISH DEEP DRAW MOLD BEHIND FILM - A portion of an automobile interior is provided with buttons, lenses or the like integrated into a protective cover of the automobile interior. By incorporating the buttons, lenses and the like into the protective cover of the automobile interior, additional parts typically necessary to perform the desired functions can be eliminated. The elimination of the additional parts results in a lower cost and reduced number of steps necessary for assembly. Additionally, the elimination of the additional parts results in a reduction in the number of apertures in the protective cover and the likelihood of component failure and/or manufacturing defects associated with the additional parts. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100171346 | Closed Cell Foam Vehicle Interior Component And Method Of Making Same - A vehicle seat assembly including at least a component of the seat assembled made of closed-cell foam and having an integral exterior surface. The component may include a backrest, headrest, seat cushion or a component thereof such as an armrest. A method of forming a seat assembly including a first seat component and a second seat component wherein at least one of the first and the second components are made of closed-cell foam. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100154261 | ILLUMINATED TRIM PANELS - A vehicle trim panel is illuminated from behind to create an illuminated design (e.g., logo and/or lettering) includes a transparent layer and an opaque layer with an opening(s) in the shape of the design. An opaque or partially opaque design piece may be placed over the opening(s) in the opaque layer and be lit around its edges. The vehicle trim panel may be formed by forming a panel with a transparent layer and an opaque layer. An opening in the opaque layer may be formed by removing opaque material (e.g., by machining or laser etching) or by masking (the mask is placed between the opaque layer and transparent layer and removed taking a portion of the opaque layer with it). A design piece may be placed over the location of the opening in the opaque layer. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100146915 | COALESCING FILTER ELEMENT WITH DRAINAGE MECHANISM - The lubricant coalescing filter element is provided that includes a cylindrical outer screen member, at least one filter element disposed inside the cylindrical outer screen member and being coaxial with the outer screen member, and a drainage arrangement disposed between the cylindrical outer screen member and the at least one filter element to drain accumulated lubricant out of the at least one filter element. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100133866 | FLEXIBLE INTERIOR TRIM COMPONENT HAVING A SMOOTH SURFACE - An interior trim component is provided that includes multiple substantially parallel ribs each configured to engage a track to facilitate movement of the interior trim component along the track. The interior trim component also includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is coupled to the ribs, and the second surface is opposite the first surface and is substantially smooth. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100128493 | ILLUMINATED INTERIOR TRIM COMPONENT - A lighting system is provided that includes an interior trim component having a light transmissive element. The interior trim component is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The vehicle lighting system also includes a light source optically coupled to the light transmissive element at least while the interior trim component is located in the first position. The light source is configured to illuminate a region of a vehicle interior. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100109415 | MODULAR SEAT BACK - A vehicle seat back having a vehicle seat back frame and a method of producing the seat back frame can be used in multiple vehicles and includes a stamped first vertical frame member having a varying depth u-shaped and a roll formed second frame member having a constant depth u-shaped cross section and the first frame member is a common part used in multiple vehicles having a substantially constant height vehicle seat backs and the second frame member is cut to length used in multiple vehicles having different width vehicle seat backs. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100101078 | NEGATIVE GRID FOR BATTERY - A method for producing a negative grid for a battery which includes providing a strip of battery grid material and performing a punching operation on the battery grid material to remove material and form a grid. The punching operation produces a negative battery grid having a plurality of grid wires bounded by a frame. The battery grid includes a top frame member. A first side frame member is coupled to the top frame member at a first end thereof. A second side frame member is coupled to the top frame member at a second end thereof. A bottom frame member is spaced apart from the top frame member and coupled to the first side frame member and the second side frame member. The negative grid does not include exposed wire ends that may puncture a polymeric separator when the negative grid is provided within the separator. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100090799 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM INCLUDING A VEHICLE ELECTRONIC KEY, ELECTRONIC KEY FOR USE IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING INFORMATION FROM A VEHICLE TO A PORTABLE TELECOMMUNICATION TERMINAL - The invention relates to a communication system that comprises a vehicle electronic key, a vehicle telecommunication device and a portable telecommunication terminal, the electronic key including a first transmitter and the vehicle including a first receiver, the first transmitter and the first receiver being provided for carrying out the transmission of at least one information request from the electronic key to the vehicle, the vehicle telecommunication device including at least a second transmitter, the portable telecommunication terminal including at least a second receiver, the second transmitter and the second receiver being provided for carrying out the transmission of information from the vehicle to the portable telecommunication terminal, the portable telecommunication terminal being provided for displaying at least a portion of the information on a display member of the portable telecommunication terminal. The invention also relates to an electronic key and to a method for communicating information from a vehicle to a portable telecommunication terminal. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100090491 | VEHICLE FLOOR CONSOLE - In one embodiment, a vehicle floor console is provided that includes a support structure and a retaining feature pivotally biased toward the support structure. The retaining feature is configured to secure cargo between the support structure and the retaining feature. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100085000 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE FOR PERMANENT MAGNET MOTOR - A drive system for a compressor of a chiller system includes a variable speed drive. The variable speed drive is arranged to receive an input AC voltage at a fixed AC input voltage and provide an output AC power at a variable voltage and variable frequency. The variable speed drive includes a converter connected to an AC power source providing the input AC voltage. The converter is arranged to convert the input AC voltage to a DC voltage. A DC link is connected to the converter. The DC link filters and stores the DC voltage from the converter. An inverter is connected to the DC link. A motor connectable to the compressor for powering the compressor. An active filter connected in parallel with the motor. The active filter is arranged to generate high frequency currents having a magnitude and opposite polarity, with respect to the output AC power of the variable speed drive. The high frequency currents generated by active filter substantially cancel out high frequency currents flowing into the motor. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100084935 | PERMANENT MAGNET SYNCHRONOUS MOTOR AND DRIVE SYSTEM - A hybrid motor for powering a compressor of a chiller system includes a first rotor portion and a first stator portion configured as a permanent magnet motor and a second rotor portion and a second stator portion configured as a reluctance motor. The second rotor portion includes a reluctance-type rotor, and the second stator portion includes electromagnetic windings capable of inducing a rotary magnetic field. The first rotor portion and the second rotor portion are attached to a common drive shaft. The reluctance motor is arranged to generate start-up torque and initiate rotation of the drive shaft until the drive shaft achieves a predetermined rotational speed. The permanent magnet motor is arranged to power the drive shaft between the predetermined rotational speed and a maximum rotational speed. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100083693 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE WITH PULSE-WIDTH MODULATED SPEED CONTROL - A drive system for a compressor of a chiller system includes a variable speed drive. The variable speed drive receives an input AC power at a fixed input AC voltage and a fixed input frequency, and provides an output AC power at a variable voltage and variable frequency. The variable speed drive includes a converter connected to an AC power source. The converter is arranged to convert the input AC voltage to a DC voltage. A DC link is connected to the converter and configured to filter and store the DC voltage from the converter. An inverter is connected to the DC link. A motor is connectable to the compressor for powering the compressor. A controller is arranged to control switching in the converter and the inverter. The controller is arranged to apply randomized pulse width modulation to vary the switching frequency of transistors in the converter and the inverter at each switching cycle. The motor may be a permanent magnet synchronous motor. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100083692 | VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE FOR PERMANENT MAGNET MOTOR - A drive system for a compressor of a chiller system includes a variable speed drive. The variable speed drive is arranged to receive an input AC power at a fixed AC input voltage and fixed input frequency and provide an output AC power at a variable voltage and variable frequency. The variable speed drive includes a converter connected to an AC power source providing the input AC voltage. The converter is arranged to convert the input AC voltage to a DC voltage. A DC link is connected to the converter. The DC link is arranged to filter and store the DC voltage from the converter. A first inverter and a second inverter are each connected to the DC link. A motor includes stator windings connected between the first inverter and the second inverter to power the motor by the output AC power from the first inverter and the second inverter. The motor is connectable to a compressor of the chiller system to power the compressor. The motor may be a permanent magnet synchronous motor. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100076605 | HVAC System Controller Configuration - Control devices for configuring heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The control devices are designed to detect operational parameters of units within HVAC systems and present system configurations consistent with the detected parameters. In response to user selection of a system configuration, the control device may apply the system configuration to the HVAC system and may reconfigure settings of control circuits within system units. The system configurations presented by the control device may correspond to wiring diagrams that are familiar to service technicians. Methods of configuring HVAC systems with the control devices are also provided. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100071396 | COOLING MEMBER - A cooling member for a variable speed drive is disclosed. The cooling member includes including at least two channels, each channel including at least one inlet and at least one outlet, a first passageway configured to provide fluid to the at least two channels through the at least one inlet of each channel, a second passageway configured to receive fluid from the at least one outlet of each channel the at least two channels, and a connector to connect the cooling member to a second cooling member. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100070907 | SYSTEM STATUS USER INTERFACES - Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. The graphical user interfaces also may be designed to present information that facilitates user understanding of system operations. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may display virtual representations of HVAC systems with graphical elements representing units and/or operating status of the HVAC systems. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100070093 | TRANSITION TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT USER INTERFACES - Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. The graphical user interfaces also may be designed to present information that facilitates user understanding of system operations. In certain embodiments, the controllers may allow users to adjust balance point and/or LTCO temperature values. In these embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include slide bars for adjusting the balance point and/or LTCO temperature values. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100070089 | HVAC CONTROLLER USER INTERFACES - Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include slide bars for adjusting temperature set points. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include selectable calendars for adjusting program schedules for the HVAC systems. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include screens for adjusting a nightlight feature of the controller. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100070086 | INDOOR AIR QUALITY CONTROLLERS AND USER INTERFACES - Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. The controllers also include communication interfaces for receiving climate data. In certain embodiments, the controllers govern operation of the HVAC systems based at least in part on the climate data. Further, the controllers may display information and alerts related to the climate data. The controllers also may govern operation of air treatment devices within the HVAC systems. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100070085 | AIRFLOW ADJUSTMENT USER INTERFACES - Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. The graphical user interfaces also may be designed to present information that facilitates user understanding of system operations. In certain embodiments, the controllers may allow users to adjust airflow values within a wide range of values. In these embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include slide bars for adjusting the airflow values. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100069519 | NOP FOAM - A foam article, for use in a seat such as a seat cushion, includes an open cell, polyurethane foam material that includes a plant oil-based polyol material content greater than five percent and is produced from the reaction of a base polyol formulation blend including at least a portion of a plant oil-based polyol, a copolymer polyol including at least a portion of a plant oil-based polyol, water, a cross-linking agent, a catalyst, cell opener and a surfactant that are reacted with an isocyanate material for producing the seat cushion having performance specifications that are equivalent or better than the performance characteristics for a traditional petroleum oil-based polyol material seat cushion. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100066351 | DEVICE FOR MEASURING A CURRENT FLOWING IN A CABLE - An exemplary embodiment relates to a measuring device for measuring a current flowing in a first cable. The measuring device includes a measuring shunt in the form of a plate connected in series with the first cable and associated with a measuring electronic card connected to a data transmission cable. The measuring shunt further includes a measuring portion of resistive alloy coupled to connection portions on either side of the measuring portion. The connection portions are integrally formed with the measuring portion, and the first cable is secured to at least one of the connection portions of the measuring shunt. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100050685 | Multichannel Heat Exchanger with Dissimilar Flow - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube configurations designed to promote flow of refrigerant within the multichannel tubes near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid. The tube configurations include flow paths of varying cross-sections, spacings, and sizes. Flow control mechanisms, such as inserts, blocking plates, sleeves, crimped sections, and crushed sections, may be employed with the flow paths to favor flow near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100046082 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A VIRTUAL DISPLAY FOR A VEHICLE - A display unit for mounting in a vehicle is provided. The display unit includes an image generator. The display unit further includes a semi-reflective member. The semi-reflective member is configured to move from a non-operational position to an operation position. The semi-reflective member is positioned to reflect light from the image generator in an operational position. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100045060 | Transparent/Translucent Flexible Component For A Vehicle Interior - A trim component for a vehicle includes a flexible component, and at least a portion of the flexible component is translucent or transparent, allowing light to pass therethrough. The flexible component could also include an opaque portion. The trim component may be a tambour door of a center console or other storage area, a gear shift closeout, or a steering column closeout. The flexible component includes a plurality of slats and a substrate coupling the slats. The center console includes a light source directing light through the translucent portion of the tambour door. The slats are formed from polypropylene or polycarbonate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and the substrate is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane or a thermoplastic elastomer. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100037574 | Adjustable Filter Racks - Filter racks are disclosed that are adjustable to accommodate filters of various thicknesses. The filter racks may include an insert that can be positioned within the base of the filter rack in two or more positions to adjust the receiving width of the filter rack. A perforated tab of the insert may be unbent to position the insert within the base at a smaller width, and the tab may be bent to position the insert within the base at a larger width. The insert also may include a divider that can be positioned within the base to reduce the width of the filter rack. Further, a rotating guide may be attached to detents within walls of the filter rack compartment. The guide may be biased at various angles to accommodate filters of different widths. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100017045 | ELECTRICAL DEMAND RESPONSE USING ENERGY STORAGE IN VEHICLES AND BUILDINGS - The present invention relates to a system having a building control system with a vehicle battery controller. The vehicle battery controller may be configured to control a vehicle battery charge and a vehicle battery discharge of a vehicle having a vehicle battery coupled to an electrical system of a building. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100013285 | TRANSMISSION DEVICE FOR SEAT ADJUSTER - A transmission device for a vehicle component adjuster, such as a seat adjuster, may include a drive screw, a drive member and a load transfer member. The drive member engages the drive screw and has a first end with an outer periphery and an end surface. The load transfer member has a first portion disposed at least partially around the periphery of the drive member and a second portion configured to be positioned between the end surface and a support structure supporting the seat adjuster relative to a track arrangement or system. The load transfer member is configured to transfer an axial load applied to the drive member to the support structure. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100011803 | HORIZONTAL DISCHARGE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT - Heating, ventilating, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and associated outdoor horizontal discharge units are provided. The units include a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a plurality of manifolds. The heat exchanger also includes a plurality of multichannel tubes in fluid communication with the manifolds. Each multichannel tube includes a plurality of parallel flow paths through which an internal fluid flows. Each flow path extends lengthwise through its respective multichannel tube. The heat exchanger further includes a plurality of fins disposed between the multichannel tubes for transferring heat between the external air and the internal fluid flowing through the flow paths. The units also include a fan configured to blow air horizontally through the heat exchanger such that the air discharges the unit horizontally through at least one side of the unit. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100006276 | Multichannel Heat Exchanger - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube and fin configurations designed to promote the release of condensate. The multichannel tubes may have a curved, round, or airfoil shape, and may be used with plate or corrugated fins. In certain embodiments, corrugated fins may be brazed to multichannel tubes and then trimmed to form individual fin structures. Double header configurations also may be employed. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100006265 | COOLING SYSTEM - A cooling system to cool an electronic component is disclosed. The cooling system includes a first connection to receive refrigerant, a region to transfer heat from an electronic component to the refrigerant from the first connection, at least one of a cooling coil, a cooling tube, or a cooling block positioned in the region and in fluid communication with the first connection, and a second connection to return refrigerant from the region to an evaporator. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100006264 | MOTOR COOLING APPLICATIONS - A cooling system is provided for a motor powering a compressor in a vapor compression system. The cooling system including a housing and a cavity within the housing. A first fluid circuit has a first connection to receive a refrigerant into the cavity, and a second connection to deliver refrigerant from the cavity to a heat exchanger for a heat transfer relationship with a heat-generating component. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100006262 | MOTOR COOLING APPLICATIONS - A cooling system is provided for a motor powering a compressor in a vapor compression system. The cooling system includes a housing enclosing the motor, and a cavity located within the housing. A fluid circuit circulates a cooling fluid in the motor, the fluid circuit having a first connection in the housing to receive cooling fluid, and a second connection in the housing to remove cooling fluid in fluid communication with the loop. The fluid circuit includes a passageway for cooling fluid positioned in an internal chamber formed in a motor shaft. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20090322136 | VEHICLE SEAT TRACK - A track assembly for a vehicle seat includes a first track member and a reinforcing member. The first track member has a first portion defining a first set of apertures configured to receive a locking device. The reinforcing member, which may be in the form of a plate, is coupled to the first portion and defines a second set of apertures corresponding to the first set of apertures. The second set of apertures are also configured to receive the locking device. The reinforcing member is configured to reinforce the first track member in an area around and between the first set of apertures. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090322127 | ACTUATOR FOR CRASH ACTIVATED HEAD RESTRAINT - Vehicle-seat comprising a seat base, a seatback and a head restraint reduces the gap between the head of a seat occupant and the front side of the head restraint in case of a crash, the vehicle seat further comprising an actuator, which is located in the seat back, which comprises a deformable body, which deforms reversible under the force resulting from the rearward movement of body of the seat occupant during and/or after the rear crash, and which comprises a first and a second end, whereas at least one end, preferably both ends, is/are slideably supported in a basis, whereas the head restraint and the actuator are connected by a force transmitter, which transmits a force, resulting from the deformation of the deformable body from the actuator to the head restraint. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090322113 | RECLINER MECHANISM PACKAGE SHELF - A recliner mechanism ( | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090316057 | Seatback Entertainment Display System - A seatback entertainment display system for a vehicle is provided having a support member extending from a seatback frame, and an adjustment mechanism coupled to the support member, and a display device coupled to the adjustment mechanism. The support member may be a cantilever type beam or frame extending upwardly from the seatback at a position behind and adjacent to a headrest. The support member may also be a pair of rods arranged to fixedly receive the display device and movably receive the headrest. The adjustment device may include any one or more of a forward-rearward tilting mechanism, a side to side pivoting mechanism and an up-down translation mechanism. The seatback entertainment display system is adaptable to optimize a viewing angle for a rear seat occupant of the vehicle, throughout a normal adjustment range of the seat. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090289109 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AN AUTOMOBILE AND A POINT OF SALE - Automobile, Reader and Method facilitating mobile commerce by a user of an automobile is disclosed, the automobile being equipped with a reader to be placed inside of the automobile, the reader being able to read purchasing instrument data of at least one of a contactless credit card or smart card-type credit card or NFC-enabled handset, and the reader being further connected to a wireless communication interface of the automobile, the wireless communication interface being able to transmit the purchasing instrument data to a point of sale. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090288440 | Multichannel Heat Exchanger with Dissimilar Tube Spacing - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided which include dissimilar tube spacing configurations. The heat exchangers include multiple sets of multichannel tubes in fluid communication with each other. One set of multichannel tubes contains a plurality of tubes spaced apart at one spacing while the another set of multichannel tubes contains a plurality of tubes spaced apart at a different spacing. The different spacing between the multichannel tubes allows each set of tubes to be configured to the properties of the refrigerant flowing within the tubes. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090284598 | VEHICLE VISION SYSTEM - The present vehicle vision system enhances visibility internally and externally with respect to the vehicle. A vision system is provided which is configured to switch between a plurality of modes. The system further includes a far-field effect which alters the focal length of the display in the vision system so as to reduce driver eye strain during operation. The vision system may be incorporated into various locations throughout the vehicle (e.g., the vehicle overhead console). | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090278337 | AIR BAG COVER - A molded air bag cover ( | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090243535 | Multi-Input Relay Board - Fan relay boards are provided that include terminals configured to receive line power of approximately 115 volts, 208 volts, 230 volts, and 277 volts. The boards are configured to convert the line power to an approximately 24 volt output that is applied to a distribution circuit to select a high, medium, or low fan speed using relays. The boards may be coupled to a control device that designates the fan speed selected by the relays. The boards also may provide an approximately 24 volt power supply to external devices such as electric heaters, valves, and switches. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090241575 | COOLING MEMBER - A cooling member for a variable speed drive. The variable speed drive has a component that generates heat during operation of the drive and a base. The base has a surface that receives the component, a channel formed in the surface of the base and a passageway formed in the base and receiving fluid therethrough. Fluid flowing through the passageway provides cooling to the component and the base is manufactured from an injection molding process. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090218981 | CONTROLLING SWITCHING OF THYRISTORS TO REDUCE POWER LOSS IN VARIABLE SPEED MOTOR - Systems and/or methods that facilitate efficiently controlling speed of an induction motor are presented. An optimized control component controls respective switching of an auxiliary switch component associated with an auxiliary winding of the motor, a main switch component associated with a main winding of the motor, and a capacitance adjuster switch component that facilitates adjusting the amount of capacitance associated with the auxiliary winding. The timing of switching on the auxiliary switch component and main switch component can be controlled such that there can be a time difference between the respective switching on of the auxiliary switch component and main switch component to produce additional phase shift to facilitate improving motor efficiency. The capacitance adjuster switch component can be switched on when motor speed is below a predetermined low speed threshold to facilitate increasing the amount of capacitance associated with the auxiliary winding to improve motor efficiency. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090218869 | Collapsible Seat and System - Collapsible seats may be installed on a track or rail system to allow the collapsible seats to move laterally within a vehicle's interior. The track system also may permit removal of the collapsible seats from the vehicle. The collapsible seats may include a seat back with multiple sections joined by flexible hinges that permit folding of the seat pan and seat back in a lateral direction. In certain embodiments, the seat pan or the headrest also may include multiple sections joined by flexible hinges. The flexible hinges may allow the seats to collapse laterally to reduce the width of the seats. The available space for seating or cargo storage may be adjusted by selectively collapsing, expanding, and removing the collapsible seats. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090218845 | VISOR AND METHOD OF MAKING A VISOR - A visor assembly, comprises a first core piece having an aperture and a second core piece coupled to the first core piece. A reflective film is positioned in a tensioned state between the first core piece and the second core piece such that a first portion of the reflective film is visible through the aperture. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090191069 | ADJUSTABLE MOTOR BASE FOR AN HVAC&R BLOWER MOTOR - An HVAC&R system including a blower system having a vertical motor adjustment is provided. The HVAC&R system includes a cooling unit, a heating unit, an air conditioning unit, and a blower unit. The blower unit includes a blower assembly having a fan unit within a fan unit support frame. A motor attached to a height adjustable motor base is attached to a top surface of the fan unit support frame. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090171862 | ENERGY CONTROL SYSTEM - A method for adjusting an economic balance point in a dual fuel HVAC system includes a furnace, a heat pump and a control system. The method comprises providing a control device having a preprogrammed algorithm for controlling the HVAC system, providing a communication path between the control device and at least one component of the HVAC system, and accessing current fuel cost data; determining an economic balance point temperature based on the current fuel cost data; and updating the economic balance point temperature in the preprogrammed algorithm to adjust an actual balance point of the HVAC system. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090170420 | AIR HANDLING UNIT - An air handling unit having multiple fans includes a damper assembly to limit recirculation of air past a non-operating fan. The damper assembly includes a panel adjustably positioned between two channels to allow the discharge of the multiple fans to be substantially opened or to be substantially closed. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090165497 | HEAT EXCHANGER - An evaporator with a plurality of tubes which extend through the shell. The plurality of tubes have first respective tubes and second respective tubes, the second respective tubes being proximate to and laterally displaced from the first respective tubes. A generally vertical partition is positioned to direct the flow of the process fluid through the plurality of tubes in a generally sideways pattern. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090114793 | Vehicle seat track - A track assembly for a vehicle seat includes a first track ( | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090114735 | SNOWMAKING METHODS - A method and apparatus for producing artificial snow is provided. The method and apparatus include controls and operating parameters for given ambient conditions to assure that fluid droplets are at equilibrium temperature before mixing with ice nuclei to produce artificial snow. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090109713 | Variable speed drive - Systems and methods for improved Variable Speed Drives are provided. One embodiment relates to apparatus for common mode and differential mode filtering for motor or compressor bearing protection when operating with Variable Speed Drives, including conducted EMI/RFI input power mains mitigation. Another embodiment relates to a method to extend the synchronous operation of an Active Converter to the AC mains voltage during complete line dropout. Another embodiment relates to an Active Converter-based Variable Speed Drive system with Improved Full Speed Efficiency. Another embodiment relates to a liquid- or refrigerant-cooled inductor. The liquid- or refrigerant-cooled inductor may be used in any application where liquid or refrigerant cooling is available and a reduction in size and weight of a magnetic component is desired. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090105497 | Reduced Hazard Thermal Fluid - A thermal fluid having a fluid that includes a compound selected from the group consisting of compounds having the following general formulas: | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090058376 | EQUIPMENT CONTROL ARRANGEMENT SUITABLE FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION ABOUT AN OPERATING STATE OF THE EQUIPMENT - A control circuit is provided for controlling a vehicle component (e.g., an HVAC system). The control circuit includes a communication link that connects the equipment control module to the control assembly and communicates instructions from the control assembly to the equipment control module and performance characteristics from the vehicle component to the control assembly. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090045582 | METHOD OF POSITIONING SEALS IN TURBOMACHINERY UTILIZING ELECTROMAGNETIC BEARINGS - A method of positioning a shaft and associated seal in turbomachinery utilizing electromagnetic bearings. The method includes applying electrical power to the electromagnetic bearings' windings, the shaft center being in a first position and the shaft being in contact with the associated seal. Power adjustment to the electromagnetic bearings moves the shaft. Shaft movements can manipulate the seal, the movements being of decreasing amplitude to a position in which the seal is out of contact with the shaft when the shaft is rotated at its centered position during normal operation. The shaft is in its centered position during normal operation when the shaft axis is substantially coaxial with an axis of the electromagnetic bearings. Movements of decreasing amplitude may include oscillations of decreasing amplitude about one or more axes, or may include a spiral rotation with a decreasing radius to move the shaft center from initial to final positions. | 02-19-2009 |
| 20090044793 | FURNACE BURNER BOX - A burner box for a furnace. The burner box includes a housing attached to the furnace. The burner box further includes a module configured to align and support a burner within the housing. The module is detachable from the housing and removable from the furnace burners. The module is detachable from the housing without disassembly or detachment of the housing from the furnace. | 02-19-2009 |
| 20090044557 | VAPOR COMPRESSION SYSTEM - A vapor compression system having a defrost cycle is disclosed. A compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion valve connected in a closed refrigerant loop with at least one flow control device. The at least one flow control device may control the flow of refrigerant through the closed refrigerant loop. At least one sensor monitors a predetermined parameter of the closed refrigerant loop and at least one controller receives a signal from the at least one sensor. The at least one controller controls the position of the at least one flow control device. The at least one controller initiates a defrost cycle in the closed refrigerant loop by substantially actuating at least one of the at least one flow control device to provide refrigerant flow from the compressor to the evaporator for substantially preventing formation of frost on the evaporator. | 02-19-2009 |
| 20090039687 | LOCKING DEVICE FOR SEAT BACK - A locking device for a seat back includes release preventing means for preventing the locking device from being unintendedly released by the fact that a second arm portion of a lift lever abuts on a side edge portion of a guide hole of a lock plate to cause the lift lever to rotate positively when a base plate rotates forward along a horizontal direction about a lock pin in a state where the lock pin engages with a lock hole of the lock plate and the second arm portion of the lift lever is located in the guide hole of the lock plate when the seat back is held at a rising position. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090032608 | SNOWMAKING APPARATUS - A snowmaking apparatus having a housing having an inlet and an outlet through with fluid is propelled into which liquid droplets and ice crystals are injected to form artificial snow is disclosed. The liquid droplets and ice crystals are injected into the propelled fluid by a structure disposed within the housing proximate the outlet. The snowmaking apparatus also includes an outer ring system that injects additional liquid droplets into the propelled fluid at an inclined angle around the housing outlet. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090025914 | Multi-Slab Multichannel Heat Exchanger - Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and multi-slab heat exchangers are provided that include fluid connections for transmitting fluid between groups of tubes. The fluid connections may include generally tubular members fluidly connected to manifold sections. The fluid connections also may include partitioned manifolds containing tubes of different heights. Multichannel tubes are also provided that include a bent section configured to locate a flow path near a leading edge of a tube within one section and near a trailing edge of the tube within another section. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090025418 | HEAT EXCHANGER SUPPORT - A heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) system having a compressor, a heat exchanger, an expansion device, and a multichannel heat exchanger connected in a closed refrigerant loop. The HVAC&R system may also have a base, a retainer and/or a grommet for providing support to the multichannel heat exchanger and/or substantially isolating the multichannel heat exchanger from the base. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090025409 | MULTICHANNEL HEAT EXCHANGER - A heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) system having a compressor, a heat exchanger, an expansion valve, and a multichannel heat exchanger connected in a closed refrigerant loop. The multichannel heat exchanger has at least two fluid flow paths cooled by a flow of air from an air-moving device through the multichannel heat exchanger. Each of the at least two fluid flow paths have an inlet and an outlet in communication there between. The multichannel heat exchanger also has at least one flow regulator disposed in at least one outlet to regulate through at least one fluid flow path in response to the air flow through the heat exchanger to achieve a substantially equal temperature of a fluid flowing in the at least two flow paths. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090025405 | Economized Vapor Compression Circuit - An economized vapor compression circuit is disclosed. An evaporator, compressor, condenser and economizer are fluidly connected by a refrigerant line containing refrigerant. A portion of the liquid refrigerant leaving the economizer is diverted away from the evaporator to sub-cool liquid refrigerant at a location between the condenser and the evaporator. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20080314378 | HEAT EXCHANGER - A furnace or other heat exchanger application for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems having condensate control. Specifically, the disclosure includes condensate control for secondary heat exchangers for use with high efficiency furnaces, particularly for small tonnage systems, such as residential or unitary systems. The application provides condensate management to permit a plurality of furnace orientations while providing resistance to corrosion due to liquid condensate, while providing a furnace system that utilizes less expensive materials and is easily fabricated. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080314375 | CONDENSATE PAN WITH CONDENSATE TRAP - A condensate pan for a condensing furnace includes a main chamber to receive exhaust gases, a condensate trap separate from the main chamber and internal the condensate pan and a main drain. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080311840 | AIR HANDLER PANELS - An air handler that provides for noise reduction without reducing the pressure of air supplied to a space below minimum levels. The air handler includes a plenum, which forms a passageway for air through the air handler; the plenum having a return side and a supply side, a fan positioned in the plenum to move air through the plenum, the fan having a suction side and a pressure side, and a conditioning apparatus in the plenum for conditioning air passing through the plenum. The air handler further includes a sound-attenuating panel, which has a first side and an opposed second side and is positioned in the plenum so that the panel extends at least partially across the plenum. The panel is configured and positioned to interact with the flow of air in the plenum to attenuate sound. The fan provides a pressure boost to air flowing through the plenum to counteract a pressure drop resulting from interaction between the air and the panel in the plenum and the conditioning apparatus. | 12-18-2008 |
| 20080310112 | System and Method for Providing Dewpoint Control in an Electrical Enclosure - A system and method is provided for an electrical component enclosure that controls the temperature of the coolant in the internal coolant loop through the enclosure to prevent the formation of condensation on the coolant tubes. Warm coolant is diverted from a heat exchanger to a mixing valve where it is mixed with chilled coolant before entering the enclosure. Humidity and temperature levels are monitored within the enclosure and processed by a microprocessor to determine the temperature of the coolant needed in the tubes. | 12-18-2008 |
| 20080296271 | Method and Apparatus for Laser Welding - A remote beam laser welding system that includes a mechanism comprising at least one mirror for directing a laser beam at a power level greater that approximately 2 kW to a weld spot of a workpiece and a device configured to direct a shielding gas to the weld spot. | 12-04-2008 |
| 20080276857 | Indicator With Screen Lit By Subdued And Warning Lights - The screen ( | 11-13-2008 |
| 20080265063 | SPRAY NOZZLE - A spray nozzle for directing a fluid into a desired uniform spray pattern is disclosed that includes a nozzle body, a spray plate and a deflector plate. The spray nozzle may be formed of replaceable components to allow for modifications to the individual components to change the spray pattern. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080232950 | METHOD FOR DETECTING ROTATING STALL IN A COMPRESSOR - A system and method is provided for detecting and controlling rotating stall in the diffuser region of a compressor. A pressure transducer is placed in the gas flow path downstream of the impeller, preferably in the compressor discharge passage or the diffuser, to measure the sound or acoustic pressure phenomenon. Next, the signal from the pressure transducer is processed either using analog or digital techniques to determine the presence of rotating stall. Rotating stall is detected by comparing the detected energy amount, which detected energy amount is based on the measured acoustic pressure, with a predetermined threshold amount corresponding to the presence of rotating stall. Finally, an appropriate corrective action is taken to change the operation of the compressor in response to the detection of rotating stall. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080223074 | REFRIGERATION SYSTEM - Refrigeration systems are provided which include a first refrigeration system and a second refrigeration system that share a common heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a vessel that operates as a condenser for the second refrigeration system. A coil disposed in the vessel operates as an evaporator for the first refrigeration system. A method of operating a refrigeration system is also provided that includes exchanging energy between the refrigerant of the first refrigeration system and the refrigerant of the second refrigeration system. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080197670 | Vehicle Component and Method For Making a Vehicle Component - A trim panel includes a body portion and an extension ( | 08-21-2008 |
| 20080197654 | FORWARD MOUNTED POWER DRIVE ASSEMBLY - An adjustable vehicle seat assembly having a track system and a drive system for power adjustment of the seat position within a vehicle. | 08-21-2008 |
