| Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120135714 | INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE - An information system for a motor vehicle is provided. The information system can include an on-board information system operable to accept input information, conduct a search and provide output information to an individual within the motor vehicle. In addition, an on-board hands free phone system can be included and be operable to communicate with an off-board phone and record and/or stream an utterance communicated by a user of said off-board phone. The on-board hands fee phone system can record/stream the utterance using a recording and/or streaming function, e.g. through the use of a Record and/or Stream button and/or a voice activated Record and/or Stream command. The recorded and/or streamed utterance can be provided to a voice recognition system that can translate the utterance into input information for the on-board information system which can then conduct the search and provide output information for an occupant of the motor vehicle. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120126963 | Over-the-Air Issue Reporting From Vehicles - Systems and methods for occupant reporting of a vehicle issue over-the-air from within a vehicle include a cellular device in the vehicle that establishes a connection with a cellular network. A user interface includes a display that provides occupant selectable menu options for reporting a vehicle issue. A processing system generates issue data based on a selected menu option. The issue data is selectably provided to one or more issue receiving servers including a first issue receiving server associated with a first organization and a second issue receiving server associated with a second, different organization using the cellular network. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126637 | Permanent Magnet Rotors and Methods of Manufacturing the Same - A rotor for an electrical motor includes a spindle, a plurality of sintered permanent magnets arranged around the spindle, a compacted powdered soft magnetic material at least partially surrounding the plurality of sintered permanent magnets, and a plurality of discrete regions of compacted powdered non-magnetic material at least partially surrounding the plurality of sintered permanent magnets. The discrete regions of non-magnetic material are at least partially embedded in the soft magnetic material and the soft magnetic material and the non-magnetic material couple the plurality of sintered permanent magnets with the spindle. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120123746 | EXACT PARAMETER SPACE REDUCTION FOR NUMERICALLY INTEGRATING PARAMETERIZED DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS - In a computational environment including at least one processor, an example method of reducing the number of parameters in a model of a physical system includes receiving an initial model such as a system of differential algebraic equations (DAEs), eliminating isolated parameters (if any) from the initial model, extracting parameter sub-expressions from the DAEs, establishing minimal disconnected clusters of parameter subexpressions, and for each cluster, attempting to generate a reduced cluster having a reduced number of parameters using one or more algorithms. If more than one approach is successful, that which is most successful in reducing the number of parameters is selected. A revised model is created having fewer parameters than the initial model. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119536 | INTEGRATED DOOR AND SHELVING SYSTEM - The present invention provides for an integrated door and shelving system for a storage compartment located on a vehicle instrument panel. The storage compartment includes at least one door rotatably mounted to the opening of the storage compartment and rotatable about a first axis. The storage compartment includes a side wall, a back wall, and a lower wall. When the door is in a substantially open position, the door is generally parallel to the lower wall and generally perpendicular to the back wall. When the door is rotated to a fully closed position, the door is generally perpendicular to the lower wall and generally parallel to the back wall. When fully opened, the door is used as a shelf to store a cell phone, iPod, PDA, etc. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118549 | Heat Conducting Composite Materials, Systems and Methods For Manufacturing The Same - In one embodiment, a heat conducting composite material may include a bulk material, a conduit, and a conduit material. The bulk material forms a shaped body having a heat introduction portion and a heat dissipation portion. The conduit is disposed in the bulk material and connects the heat introduction portion to the heat dissipation portion. The conduit material is disposed within and fills the conduit. The bulk material thermal conductivity of the bulk material is about equal to a conduit material thermal conductivity of the conduit material at an activation temperature. The bulk material thermal conductivity is less than or equal to the conduit material thermal conductivity throughout an activation temperature range. The bulk material thermal conductivity is greater than or equal to the conduit material thermal conductivity throughout a deactivation temperature range. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120114135 | MODULAR AUTOMOTIVE MULTIMEDIA AND TELEMATIC EXTENSION BOX AND HEAD UNIT - The present invention relates to a modular automotive multimedia and telematic extension unit and head unit. In one embodiment, the present invention is an extension unit including a storage unit storing an application of an external personal electronic device, a processor connected to the storage unit, and a first connection unit connected to the storage unit and configured to be connected to a head unit in an automobile. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111138 | High Load Resistant Stop Lamp Switch Brackets and Brake Pedal Assemblies Incorporating the Same - A switch bracket includes a bracket body that includes a lower surface and a kickplate. The switch bracket also includes a switch mount located on the lower surface of the bracket body, where at least a portion of the kickplate extends outward from the lower surface further than the stop lamp switch that is retained at the switch mount. In another embodiment, a brake pedal assembly includes a switch bracket coupled to a pedal mount, the switch bracket having a lower surface and a kickplate. The brake pedal assembly also includes a stop lamp switch coupled to the lower surface of the switch bracket, and a brake pedal rotationally engaged with the pedal mount and coupled to the stop lamp switch. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120107618 | Low-Gloss, Two-Component Clear Coats, Articles of Manufacture Having Low-Gloss, Two-Compnent Clear Coats, And Methods For Applying The Same - Low-gloss, two-component clear coats include a base resin including a urethane resin, an isocyanate resin that combines with the base resin immediately prior to application of the low-gloss, two-component clear coat to form a two-component base resin mixture, wherein the two-component base resin mixture comprises from about 20 weight percent to about 40 weight percent urethane resin and from about 20 weight percent to about 40 weight percent isocyanate resin, and a silica-based flattener, wherein the silica-based flattener comprises from about 5 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the two-component base resin mixture to about 20 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the two-component base resin mixture, wherein the low-gloss, two-component clear coat has a 60° gloss finish from 22 gloss units to 34 gloss units when cured. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104820 | SLOT CAM FOR RECLINE HANDLE MOTION DURING EGRESS MECHANISM FUNCTION - The present invention provides for an automotive vehicle seat assembly allowing for fold flat functionality as well as sliding capabilities along a track located within the automotive vehicle. The seating assembly further including a plate. The seating assembly includes a handle bracket having an abutting edge, a biasing member connected to the handle bracket, and a planar bracket having a first end and a second end. The first end of the planar bracket having a stopper which abuts the abutting edge when in contact. The second end of the planar bracket operable to connect to a cable wherein the cable connects to a release mechanism allowing for movement of the seat assembly along the vehicle track. Sliding forward motion of the seat assembly is created when the handle bracket is rotated forward wherein the abutting edge contacts the stopper at the first end of the planar bracket, the planar bracket then rotates about a pivot point thereby pulling the cable and releasing a mechanism to allow for travel of the vehicle seat assembly. The fold flat functionality of the seat assembly occurs when the handle bracket is rotated upwards and the abutting edge travels over the stopper at the first end of the planar bracket thereby not activating the cable however still folding the seat back to a generally perpendicular position of the overall vehicle seat assembly. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120104186 | WIRE HARNESS CLAMP - A wire harness clamp with at least a pair of tension members that afford for harnesses having different sizes to be held securely by the clamp is provided. In addition, the wire harness clamp can have a length that can protect wire harnesses held within the clamp from proximate objects that can rub, vibrate, etc., against the wire harnesses. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120098319 | ADJUSTABLE ARMREST WITH PUSH BUTTON - The present invention provides for a vehicle armrest assembly mounted to a vehicle seat back movable from a stowed position to a functioning position. The armrest assembly includes an armrest housing having a gas shock disposed within the armrest housing. A pivot bracket is mounted within the armrest housing and in line with the gas shock. The pivot bracket has a first end and a second end. The first end of the pivot bracket abuts the gas shock so as to actuate a nozzle on the gas shock. The second end of the pivot bracket abuts a button. When the button is pressed, the button pushes the pivot bracket, transfers energy through the pivot bracket to the nozzle of the gas shock, and actuates the nozzle of the gas shock thereby permitting movement of the armrest assembly. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120093802 | BIOACTIVE COMPOSITION INCLUDING STABILIZED PROTEIN AND PROCESS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - A bioactive composition includes a porous hydrogel matrix. At least one protein is immobilized in the porous hydrogel matrix forming a hydrogel protein composite that is stable in an organic solvent. A process for stabilizing a bioactive composition includes the steps of: forming hydrogel matrix pores around protein molecules and reducing a water content within the hydrogel matrix pores forming a hydrogel protein composite that is stable in an organic solvent. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091623 | METHOD TO MANUFACTURE CHROME BUTTONS WITH INTEGRATED LIGHT PIPE USING TWO SHOT MOLDING PROCESS - The present invention provides a method for molding and chrome plating a button having an integrated light pipe. The method utilizes a two shot molding process to create the button housing and the light pipe. The method includes the steps of injecting a first shot of resin A wherein resin A is a resin not allowing chrome to adhere to it, allowing resin A to cool, injecting a second shot of resin B into the mold, and continuing to chrome plate the entire button wherein chrome only adheres to resin B. A light pipe formed by resin A remains transparent or translucent allowing light to shine through from a light to the eye of a user. Chrome plating adheres to resin B providing for a polished finish. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120089331 | Systems and Methods for Determining a Destination Location from a Communication - Systems and methods for determining a destination location from a communication are described. One embodiment of a method includes receiving electronic communications data from a mobile communications device, at a computing device. The electronic communications data is parsed to identify a partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data. A position of the destination location is determined from the partial address term of interest. Routing data of a vehicle from a current location of the vehicle to the destination location is determined and provided to a user of the vehicle. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087009 | Semi-Transparent Reflectors - In one embodiment, a semi-transparent reflector may include a multilayered photonic structure. The multilayered photonic structure includes a plurality of coating layers of high index dielectric material and a plurality of coating layers of low index dielectric material. The plurality of coating layers of high index dielectric material and the plurality of coating layers of low index dielectric material of the multilayered photonic structure are arranged in an [LH . . . (LH) | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120086601 | MICROWAVE ANTENNA SYSTEM - A microwave antenna system having a plurality of antenna elements arranged in an array having two spaced ends. A first phase shifter is electrically connected to a first group of at least two adjacent antenna elements at one end of the array to control the signal phase in that first group. Likewise, a second phase shifter is electrically connected to a second group of at least two adjacent array elements at the other end of the array to control the signal phase in the second group. Individual phase shifters are electrically connected to individual middle antenna elements for at least several of the middle antenna elements between the first and second groups. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120083568 | ACRYLATE-BASED FLUORINATED COPOLYMERS FOR HIGH-SOLIDS COATINGS - A series of low, medium, and high molecular weight copolymers containing methyl methacrylate, n-butyl acrylate. 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate were synthesized by solution polymerization under monomer-starved conditions. The copolymers were crosslinked with a methylated melamine formaldehyde resin in order to obtain thermosetting acrylics. Lower wettability, higher oxygen permeability, and lower refractive index were observed for higher concentrations of fluorinated monomer in the copolymer composition and high number-average hydroxyl functionality of the high molecular weight copolymers increased the crosslink density of the acrylic films, thereby resulting in improved tensile strength and tensile modulus. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120083551 | MODIFIED EPOXIDE PRIMERS - Telechelic resins with reactive end groups (e.g., epoxy phosphate and epoxy ester) were synthesized using bisphenol-A (BPA) epoxide. The bisphenol-A based epoxide and the telechelic resins were all modified with tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) oligomers to produce epoxide/polysilicate (organic/inorganic) hybrid systems. The modified epoxides were thermally cured with a melamine-formaldehyde resin, cast on steel substrates and salt spray analysis revealed that the inorganically modified epoxides provided improvement over unmodified epoxide resins with respect to both corrosion resistance and adhesion to steel substrates. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120082854 | SELF-STRATIFYING COATING - A self-stratifying coating composition is provided. The self-stratifying coating can include a base layer having a telechelic resin with reactive end groups and an alkoxide oligomer. In addition, a top layer having an acrylate and/or methacrylate such as a fluorinated acrylate, a fluorinated methacrylate, a fluorinated hydrocarbon copolymerized with an acrylate, a fluorinated hydrocarbon copolymerized with a methacrylate and combinations thereof, and a crosslinking agent can be included. In addition, the base layer and the top layer can have an interfacial surface tension therebetween that is within a range of about 15 to 60 mJ/cm | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120081233 | AUDIBLE BLIND SPOT INDICATOR - An audible blind spot indicator for a motor vehicle having a blind spot detection system is provided. The audible blind spot indicator can include an audible module that has a first tone generator operable to generate a first tone frequency and a second tone generator operable to generate a second tone frequency that is different than the first tone frequency. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120079924 | Tool Protection Devices - A hand-held tool protection device includes a handle sized and configured to be grasped by an operator. A neck portion extends outwardly from the handle in a direction of a elongated axis of the handle. A swivel assembly is connected to the neck portion. The swivel assembly includes a body having a top, a bottom and a sidewall. The body is connected to the neck portion at the sidewall of the body. An opening extends through the body and intersects the top and the bottom of the body. A pivotable rod member is slidably and pivotably received in the opening extending through the body to provide a pivot axis. A tool element holding assembly is connected to the pivotable rod member such that the tool element holding assembly pivots therewith about the pivot axis. The tool element holding assembly includes a support assembly configured for receiving a tool such that the tool may be rotated about a tool rotation axis. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120079833 | Reversible Thermal Rectifiers, Temperature Control Systems And Vehicles Incorporating The Same - Reversible thermal rectifiers for selectively controlling the direction of heat flow include a plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects disposed in a fluid medium, wherein each of the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects include a refractive side and a reflective side such that heat flows past the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects when approaching from the refractive side, and heat is reflected from the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects when approaching from the reflective side, and a bidirectional field actuator system that selectively orients the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects between a first orientation, wherein the reflective sides of the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects face a first direction, and a second orientation, wherein the reflective sides of the plurality of asymmetrically shaped objects face a second direction, substantially opposite the first direction. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120078507 | Systems and Methods for Estimating Local Traffic Flow - Systems and methods for estimating local traffic flow are described. One embodiment of a method includes determining a driving habit of a user from historical data, determining a current location of a vehicle that the user is driving, and determining a current driving condition for the vehicle. Some embodiments include predicting a desired driving condition from the driving habit and the current location, comparing the desired driving condition with the current driving condition to determine a traffic congestion level, and sending a signal that indicates the traffic congestion level. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120074088 | Roller Systems and Adjustment Brackets Therefor - A roller rail system includes an adjustment bracket including a first roller rail assembly support portion and a second roller rail assembly support portion adjacent the first roller rail assembly support portion. The first and second roller rail assembly support portions are each configured to receive a roller rail assembly such that the roller rail assembly slides within the respective first and second roller rail assembly support portion relative to the adjustment bracket. A first roller rail assembly is received by the first roller rail assembly support portion. A second roller rail assembly is received by the second roller rail assembly support portion. The roller rail system has a retracted configuration where leading ends of the first and second roller rail assemblies are closer together and an extended configuration where the leading ends of the first and second roller rail assemblies are further apart. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120072023 | Human-Robot Interface Apparatuses and Methods of Controlling Robots - A method of controlling a robot using a human-robot interface apparatus in two-way wireless communication with the robot includes displaying on a display interface a two-dimensional image, an object recognition support tool library, and an action support tool library. The method further includes receiving a selected object image representing a target object, comparing the selected object image with a plurality of registered object shape patterns, and automatically recognizing a registered object shape pattern associated with the target object if the target object is registered with the human-robot interface. The registered object shape pattern may be displayed on the display interface, and a selected object manipulation pattern selected from the action support tool library may be received. Control signals may be transmitted to the robot from the human-robot interface. Embodiments may also include human-robot apparatuses (HRI) programmed to remotely control a robot. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120068909 | ANTENNA WITH TAPERED ARRAY - An antenna with improved radiation efficiency is provided. The antenna includes an antenna array proximately coupled to a feed line. The antenna array includes a plurality of resonating lines. Each resonating line includes a plurality of axially aligned resonators. The resonators have a resonating surface. The resonating surfaces of the resonators at the ends of the resonating lines are larger than resonating surfaces of the resonators in the middle of the resonating lines. Power is supplied to each resonating ling through a feed line. Electrical field is uniformly distributed along the antenna array so as to improve the radiation efficiency of the antenna. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120066979 | TOW HOOK COVER HAVING TETHER HOOK - A tow hook cover for concealing an opening formed in a bumper cover of an automotive vehicle is provided. The tow hook cover includes a generally planar member having an outer surface and an opposite inner surface. A tether hook is disposed on the inner surface of the generally planar member. The tether hook has an elongated leg having a proximate end attached to the inner surface of the generally planar member and a distal end spaced apart from the inner surface. The distal end has a first arm extending generally normal from the elongated leg and a second arm defining an acute angle between the elongated leg and the second arm. Upon installation, the first arm extends through an aperture formed adjacent the tow hook opening prior to the second arm which deflects upon insertion. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120066880 | Automated Systems for Roller Rail Disassembly and Methods of Disassembling Roller Rail Assemblies - An automated system for disassembling a roller rail assembly includes an actuation device configured to move the roller rail assembly in a disassembling direction. A guide bracket is arranged and configured to receive the roller rail assembly as the roller rail assembly is moved in the disassembling direction. The guide bracket allows movement of the roller rail assembly in the disassembling direction. A separator member is located downstream of the actuation device. The separator member being received by a housing member of the roller rail assembly and having a wide region that separates sidewalls of the housing member and releases roller wheels of the roller rail assembly as the roller rail assembly is moved past the separator member by the actuation device. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120065762 | Methods For Selecting Transportation Parameters For A Manufacturing Facility - Methods for selecting transportation parameters for transporting parts from at least one point of part supply to at least one point of part demand in a manufacturing facility include determining a physical relationship between the at least one point of part supply and the at least one point of part demand, selecting a transportation route type from a preselected group of transportation route types based at least in part on the physical relationship, selecting an automated guided carrier type from a preselected group of automated guided carrier types based at least in part on the transportation route type, determining a need for traffic control based at least in part on the transportation route type, and if it is determined traffic control is needed, selecting a traffic control type from a preselected group of traffic control types based at least in part on the transportation route type. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120063091 | Cooling Apparatuses and Power Electronics Modules - A cooling apparatus for a power electronics system includes a jet plate, a target plate, a plurality of fluid collection passageways, and a fluid outlet. The jet plate includes an array of impingement jets having a jet body and an impingement jet channel. The target plate includes an array of microchannel cells having a plurality of radially-extending wavy-fin microchannels. The coolant fluid is directed toward an impingement location through the array of impingement jets and travels through the wavy-fin microchannels. The plurality of fluid collection passageways are arranged in a grid pattern such that the coolant fluid exits the wavy-fin microchannels and flows into the plurality of fluid passageways. The coolant fluid exits the cooling apparatus through the fluid outlet. The cooling apparatus may be incorporated into a power electronics module having a power electronics device to cool the power electronics device. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120063085 | Jet Impingement Heat Exchanger Apparatuses and Power Electronics Modules - A jet impingement heat exchanger includes an inlet jet, a target layer, a second layer, a transition channel, and a fluid outlet. The target layer includes an impingement region and a plurality of target layer microchannels that radially extend from the impingement region. The jet of coolant fluid impinges the target layer at the impingement region and flows through the radially-extending target layer microchannels toward a perimeter of the target layer. The second layer includes a plurality of radially-extending second layer microchannels. The transition channel is positioned between the target layer and the second layer to fluidly couple the second layer to the target layer. The coolant fluid flows through the transition channel and the plurality of radially-extending second layer microchannels. The fluid outlet fluidly is coupled to the second layer. Jet impingement exchangers may be incorporated into a power electronics module having a power electronics device. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120059579 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTING A DESTINATION FROM VOICE DATA ORIGINATING OVER A COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A navigation system for an automotive vehicle capable of communicating with a remote communication device includes a host communication device connected to the remote communication device over a communication network to transmit voice data. A hands free communication unit having a speaker and a microphone is configured to connect with the host communication device so as to communicate with the remote communication device through the speaker and microphone. The vehicle navigation system also includes a voice recognition engine in communication with the hands free communication unit through a voice data link. A route generation unit is connected to the hands free communication unit and the voice recognition engine. The hands free communication unit is capable of transmitting the voice data originating from the remote communication device to the voice recognition engine over the voice data link. The voice recognition engine processes the voice data to extract a destination which is transferred to the route generation unit to determine a navigation route. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120059574 | VEHICLE SPEED INDICATION USING VEHICLE-INFRASTRUCTURE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION - An example traffic control system includes a vehicle unit associated with a vehicle on a highway, one or more roadside units proximate the highway, and a traffic controller. The vehicle unit transmits a vehicle speed to the roadside unit, when in wireless communication range. The roadside unit transmits the vehicle speed to the traffic controller. The traffic controller receives vehicle speed data from a plurality of vehicles, and determines a suggested speed for each vehicle. The suggested speed may be correlated with an average speed of vehicles on a portion of the highway, for example the same highway portion on which vehicle is located, or a highway portion towards which the vehicle is heading. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120058345 | Low-Gloss, Flexible Clear Coats, Articles of Manufacture Having Low-Gloss, Two Coat Paint Systems, and Methods For Applying the Same - Low-gloss flexible clear coast can include a base formula that includes a base resin and a cross-linker, a silica-based flattener, wherein the silica-based flattener comprises from 5 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the base formula to 20 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the base formula, one or more flattener enhancing agents, wherein the one or more flattener enhancing agents comprise 0.25 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the base formula to 5 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the base formula, and possess 90° flexibility and a 60° gloss finish from 22 gloss units to 34 gloss units. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120056004 | WINDSHIELD CLEANER - The present invention discloses a windshield wiper system that affords for deicing of a windshield for a motor vehicle. The system includes a first container having a first liquid, a second container having a second liquid along with a spray nozzle or jet proximate to the windshield and in fluid communication with the first container and the second container. A pump operable to pump or force the second liquid through the spray nozzle and onto the windshield is also included. In addition, a time delay switch activates the windshield wiper only after the second liquid has been on the windshield a preset time. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120043792 | BUCKLE FOR CENTER OCCUPANT FOR BENCH SEAT WITH EXTENDED TRAVEL - A 60/40 bench seat is provided allowing for increased sliding travel along a set of tracks to allow for easier ingress and egress of a vehicle passenger accessing the rear of a bench seat. The 60/40 bench seat assembly allows for increased travel along the tracks without adding significant increases in assembly parts, cost, or weight. The 60/40 bench seat assembly is provided including a profile member and a buckle. The 60/40 bench seat assembly is divided into a 40% section seat and a 60% section seat. The 60/40 seat assembly further includes a profile member operable to push down the buckle to allow for increased travel of the 60% seat. The buckle includes a first surface and the profile includes a second surface contacting the buckle first surface thereby pushing the buckle towards a vehicle floor. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120041670 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING VEHICLE TOLLS AS A FUNCTION OF FUEL CONSUMPTION - A system for assessing a toll on a vehicle traveling past a toll station in which a tag mounted on the vehicle transmits an output signal having data representative of the fuel consumption of the vehicle and the identity of an account associated with the tag. A receiver at the toll station receives the output signal from the tag and provides the received data to a processor. The processor then calculates a toll which varies as a function of the data and thus of the fuel consumption of the vehicle and then assesses that toll to the account. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041653 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD TO INHIBIT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DOWNSHIFING DURING TRAILER SWAY - A control system for a vehicle that is towing a trailer, the control system including a lateral acceleration sensor coupled to the vehicle for determining a lateral acceleration of the vehicle caused by the trailer swaying and generating a lateral acceleration signal based on the lateral acceleration of the vehicle and a transmission controller for receiving the lateral acceleration signal from the lateral acceleration sensor, comparing the lateral acceleration signal to a threshold, and prohibiting a gear switch signal from being transmitted to a transmission of the vehicle when the lateral acceleration signal exceeds the threshold. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120040652 | Systems and Methods of Delivering Content to an Occupant in a Vehicle - A method of delivering content to an occupant in a vehicle, the method comprising: establishing an Internet connection using an electronic cellular device, the electronic device being integrated with an HMI system of the vehicle, the HMI system including HMI controls; searching for a content source providing an Internet media stream by selecting a content category using the HMI controls; connecting to the content source using the Internet connection; and playing the Internet media stream using a speaker of the vehicle. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120040091 | Methods For Identifying Articles of Manufacture - In one embodiment, a method for identifying an article of manufacture may include: producing a plurality of multilayer photonic structures, wherein each of the plurality of multilayer photonic structures has a unique intensity profile; incorporating one of the plurality of multilayer photonic structures that produces the unique intensity profile into a coating; and generating an electronic code corresponding to the unique intensity profile of one of the plurality of multilayer photonic structures. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120038176 | WASTE HEAT AUXILIARY POWER UNIT - The present invention relates to a waste heat auxiliary power unit. In one embodiment, the present invention is a heat exchange unit for an automobile including a core unit configured to be connected to a catalytic converter of the automobile, the core unit generating vapor, and a first energy generation module connected to the core unit, the first energy generation module receiving the vapor from the core unit and generating energy from the vapor. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037485 | CAPACITIVE SWITCH REFERENCE METHOD - An example capacitive switch apparatus comprises a capacitive switch sensor providing a capacitive switch signal, a capacitive reference sensor providing a capacitive reference signal, and an electronic circuit, receiving the switch and reference signals and detecting switch activation by comparing the switch signal level with a threshold level. The threshold level is adjusted as a function of the reference signal level. The reference signal is obtained, for example during periods of operator proximity to the reference sensor. For a finger-operated switch, the reference signal is obtained when a finger is proximate the reference sensor. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120036905 | Optical Lock Systems and Methods - In one embodiment, the optical lock system may include an electronic control unit, a lock housing including a lock chamber, and an optical key including a multilayer photonic structure. The multilayer photonic structure may produce a unique intensity profile and includes a plurality of coating layers of high index dielectric material and a plurality of coating layers of low index dielectric. A light source may transmit a reference light to the multilayer photonic structure when the optical key is disposed within the lock chamber. A photo detector may receive an interaction light from the multilayer photonic structure and may transmit the unique intensity profile to the electronic control unit which may execute machine readable instructions to: compare the unique intensity profile to an electronic master; and cause the lock actuator to transition from a first state to a second state when the unique intensity profile corresponds to the electronic master. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120036097 | Systems And Methods For Recognizing Events - Systems and methods for recognizing events include a processor for executing machine readable instructions. The processor may be electronically coupled to an electronic memory. A temporal sensor may be electronically coupled to the processor for generating a sequence of temporal signals relating to an unrecognized event. The temporal sensor may transmit the sequence of temporal signals to the processor. The processor may execute the machine readable instructions to: input the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a recurrent neural network; transform the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the recurrent neural network; input the neural output relating to the unrecognized event into a random forest classifier; and recognize a recognized event based upon a transformation of the neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the random forest classifier. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120034816 | VEHICULAR RETRACTABLE CABLE SYSTEMS - A vehicular retractable cable system may include a housing and a cable assembly including a retract assembly with associated retractable cable. The cable has extended and retracted positions. A position setting assembly is associated with the cable assembly. The position setting assembly has a retract button, wherein when the cable is in an extended position and upon activation of the retract button, the cable moves toward the retracted position. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029697 | ROBOTIC TRANSPORTATION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - A robotic transportation device may include a device body, two docking arms, and a controller module. The device body may include at least one motorized wheel, and the two docking arms may include an adjustable wheel locking device. The two docking arms may extend horizontally from the device body and may be adjustable along first and second directions. The adjustable wheel locking devices comprise two adjustable wheel stops extending laterally from the docking arm. The controller module may cause the robotic transportation device to autonomously approach a target device, detect a device type, and adjust a position of the two docking arms and the two wheel stops in accordance with the device type. The controller module may move each adjustable wheel locking device under a target wheel of the target device to lock and lift the target wheels, and cause the robotic transportation device to autonomously transport the target device. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029696 | ROBOTIC CANE DEVICES - A robotic cane may include a grip handle, a cane body extending from the grip handle at a first end, a motorized omni-directional wheel coupled to a second end of the cane body, a balance control sensor, and a controller module. The balance control sensor provides a balance signal corresponding to an orientation of the robotic cane. The controller module may receive the balance signal from the balance control sensor and calculate a balancing velocity of the motorized omni-directional wheel based at least in part on the balance signal and an inverted pendulum control algorithm. The controller module may further provide a drive signal to the motorized omni-directional wheel in accordance with the calculated balancing velocity. The calculated balancing velocity is a speed and direction of the motorized omni-directional wheel to retain the robotic cane in an substantially upright position. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028793 | DUAL-OXIDE SINTER RESISTANT CATALYST - A catalyst material for use at elevated temperatures is provided. The material can include a plurality of fibers and a plurality of particles supported on the fibers. In addition, a porous layer can cover the plurality of particles and allow for process fluid to come into contact with the particles, and yet retard sintering of the particles at elevated temperatures is present. The plurality of fibers can be a plurality of nanofibers which may or may not be oxide nanofibers. The particles can be metallic nanoparticles and the porous layer can be a porous oxide layer. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025154 | SYNTHESIS OF NANOCOMPOSITE THERMOELECTRIC MATERIAL - A process for forming thermoelectric nanoparticles includes the steps of forming a core material reverse micelle or micelle, adding a bismuth containing compound to the core material reverse micelle or micelle forming a reverse micelle or micelle having the bismuth containing compound dispersed therein, adding a tellurium containing compound with the formed micelle or reverse micelle in the presence of a reducing agent that alloys with the bismuth containing compound forming composite thermoelectric nanoparticles having a core and shell structure, and washing the core and shell nanoparticles in a solvent mixture including ammonium hydroxide, water and methanol wherein the core and shell nanoparticles remain un-agglomerated and have a particle size of from 1-25 nanometers. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025130 | HIGH-Ph SYNTHESIS OF NANOCOMPOSITE THERMOELECTRIC MATERIAL - A process for forming thermoelectric nanoparticles includes the steps of providing a core material and a bismuth containing compound in a reverse micelle; providing a tellurium containing compound either in or not in a reverse micelle; reacting the bismuth containing compound with the tellurium containing compound in the presence of a base, forming a composite thermoelectric nanoparticle having a core and shell structure. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024890 | MOBILE SANITIZING DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR DISPENSING SANITIZER SOLUTION - A mobile sanitizing device may include a sanitizer solution dispenser module, a motorized wheel assembly, and a controller module. The sanitizer solution dispenser module may be operable to dispense the sanitizer solution. The motorized wheel includes at least one wheel and is coupled to the sanitizer solution dispenser module. The controller module includes a microcontroller and a memory, and is programmed to log a sanitization record into a sanitization history of at least one user, compare the sanitization history of the user with a sanitization standard, and control the motorized wheel assembly to cause the mobile sanitizing device to approach the user to dispense sanitizing solution to the user when the sanitization history does not meet the sanitization standard. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023732 | Alignment Tools and Methods of Tool Alignment - An automated driver for tightening a fastener bolt includes a housing body including a handle. A chuck is rotatably connected to the housing body. An actuation system is operatively connected to the chuck for rotating the chuck. A tool element is held by the chuck, the tool element configured to engage the fastener bolt. An alignment tool is connected to the chuck. The alignment tool includes a chuck receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the chuck is located and a bit receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the tool element is located. An end of the tool element extends beyond an end of the bit receiving portion. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023661 | PHYSICAL ASSISTIVE ROBOTIC DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - A physical assistive robotic device may include a frame including an upright support member, a lateral member slidably engaged with the upright support member, a handle slidably engaged with the lateral member, an elevation actuator coupled to the upright support member and the lateral member, and a lateral actuator coupled to the lateral member and the handle. The elevation actuator translates the lateral member and the lateral actuator translates the handle to transition a user between a standing position and a non-standing position. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023660 | Robotic Posture Transfer Assist Devices and Methods - Robotic posture transfer assist devices for assisting a posture transfer of a patient in a bed may include a device body, a stabilizer coupled with the device body and the bed, and at least one robotic arm having a plurality of degrees of freedom, wherein the robotic arm may be coupled with the device body. Robotic posture transfer assist devices may further include an end-effector removably coupled with the robotic arm, a controller module that provides a control signal to the robotic arm to control a movement of the robotic arm about the plurality of degrees of freedom, and a user input device that provides a command signal to the controller module to command the movement of the robotic arm, wherein the control signal provided by the controller module corresponds with the command signal. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120019408 | MICROWAVE SYSTEM UTILIZING ELEVATIONAL SCANNING BY FREQUENCY HOPPING - For use in conjunction with a microwave antenna having a radiator array configured to scan in a horizontal direction, a method for scanning in the vertical direction. A first FMCW microwave signal having a first bandwidth is transmitted at a first microwave frequency and the echo, if any, is received by the radiator array. A second FMCW microwave signal having a second bandwidth is also transmitted at a different center frequency and the echo, if any, is received by the radiator array. The different frequencies cause an elevational shift in the received signal. The receipt of the echoes is then processed to identify the location or locations of the object or objects causing the echo and communicating such location or locations to a user. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019028 | SLIDABLE WINDOW ASSEMBLY WITH RETRACTABLE SUNSHADE - A slidable window assembly mounted within the roof of an automotive vehicle is provided. The roof includes an opening and the slidable window assembly includes a window panel having a catch. The window panel is slidably mounted within the roof and slidable between an open position and a closed position. The slidable window assembly further includes a sunshade disposed beneath the window panel. The sunshade is also slidable between an open and closed position. The sunshade has a first surface facing the window panel and a stop mounted on the first surface. The catch is operable to engage the stop so as to move the sunshade from the closed position to the open position. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018681 | PROCESS FOR OPTIMUM THERMOELECTRIC PROPERTIES - A process for forming a thermoelectric component having optimum properties is provided. The process includes providing a plurality of core-shell nanoparticles, the nanoparticles having a core made from silica, metals, semiconductors, insulators, ceramics, carbon, polymers, combinations thereof, and the like, and a shell containing bismuth telluride. After the core-shell nanoparticles have been provided, the nanoparticles are subjected to a sintering process. The result of the sintering provides a bismuth telluride thermoelectric component having a combined electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient squared of greater than 30,000 μV | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120007765 | DUAL-BAND ANTENNA ARRAY AND RF FRONT-END FOR MM-WAVE IMAGER AND RADAR - The radar includes a PCB having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a processor mounted on the bottom surface of the PCB. The radar includes a second liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the top surface of the printed circuit board, a second microstrip array printed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, the second microstrip array having a patch, a first liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, a first microstrip array printed on the first liquid crystal polymer layer, the first microstrip array having a perforated patch, an antenna positioned underneath the patch and connected to the second microstrip array, and a transmit/receive module connected to a bottom surface of the second liquid crystal polymer layer and configured to transmit a first frequency signal to the first microstrip array and a second frequency signal to the second microstrip array. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120007409 | KNEE BELT RESTRAINT - A three-point seat belt assembly for an occupant sitting in a seat of a motor vehicle is provided. The three-point seat belt assembly can include a seat belt web that has a shoulder harness portion and a knee portion. The shoulder harness portion extends across the occupant's torso and the knee portion extends across the occupant's knees. In addition, a guide member can be included that prevents the knee portion of the seat belt web from sliding up above the occupant's knees and sliding down towards the occupant's shins. A pretensioner can further be included and be attached to the seat belt web. The pretensioner can have a release force of between 5 and 6 kilonewtons which is an improvement over current limits of between 2 and 3 kilonewtons. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006416 | MECHANICAL FUSE TO SEAL PIPES UPON UNINTENDED RUPTURE - The present invention relates to a mechanical fuse to seal pipes upon unintended rupture. When a pressure difference between a first pressure and a second pressure in a pipe is below a pressure threshold, a first spring retains a flap in a first position allowing gaseous fuel to flow from a first portion to a second portion and when the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is not below the pressure threshold the flap moves to a second position preventing the gaseous fuel from flowing from the first portion to the second portion. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120000639 | THERMAL ENERGY STEERING DEVICE - A thermal flux steering device and method for steering thermal flux into a concentrated area is provided. The thermal flux steering device includes a matrix impregnated with a plurality of thermally conductive inclusions. The thermally conductive inclusions are angled so as to steer thermal flux into a concentrated area such as a thermal energy sink in communication with the matrix. The thermally conductive inclusions may be filler fibers or thermally conductive particles impregnated within the matrix. Orientation of the thermally conductive inclusions may be determined by detecting the thermal flux of the thermal energy source, the thermodynamic properties of the matrix and the thermally conductive inclusions, and the location of the flux concentration area. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110320089 | Over-the-Air Vehicle Systems Updating and Associate Security Protocols - A method of updating a vehicle ECU includes establishing communication between a data communications module of a vehicle and an update server via a cellular network; validating the vehicle using a key exchange protocol between the data communications module and the update server; and sending update information from the update server to the data communications module of the vehicle via the cellular network, the update information configured to be used to update the vehicle ECU. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110316254 | TOWMOTOR SECONDARY LOCK - The present invention provides for a secondary locking assembly for a towmotor when the towmotor is connected to a dolly. The towmotor includes a first lever pivotally connected to a rear panel of the towmotor. The lever is connected to the rear panel of the towmotor by means of a first pivot point. A sleeve having a second extended lever covers a portion of the first lever. The sleeve abuts the first pivot point of the first lever. The sleeve is pivotally connected about a second pivot point located on the first lever. By clamping the first lever and the second lever together, the sleeve moves from the locked position abutting the first pivot point to an unlocked position wherein the first lever as a whole may be pivotally raised to an unlocked position. The locking assembly further includes an elongated member extending between the first lever and the hitch pin. The elongated rod forces the hitch pin into place and also operates to remove the hitch pin from the locked position when the first lever is moved to the unlocked position. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313603 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING USE OF A BATTERY - A battery optimization system and method for regulating and discharging a battery so as to optimize the use of the battery in accordance with the user's preference is provided. The battery optimization system includes a power source, a charging/discharging station connecting the battery with the power source, and a controller in communication with the charging/discharging station. The battery optimization system further includes an input operable to provide the user's preferences. The controller is also in communication with the battery and is operable to process battery and power source information along with user input to calculate an optimal charging/discharging cycle. The charging/discharging cycle is configured to charge or discharge the battery so as to optimize the use of the battery based upon the end user's preference. For instance, the calculated optimal charging/discharging cycle may be based upon the user's desire to maximize the life of the battery, or to charge the battery as inexpensively as possible. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110312065 | CLEARCOAT CONTAINING THERMOASE C160 FOR EASY-CLEANING OF INSECT BODY STAINS - A substrate or coating is provided that includes a protease with enzymatic activity toward a component of a biological stain. Also provided is a process for facilitating the removal of a biological stain is provided wherein an inventive substrate or coating including a protease is capable of enzymatically degrading of one or more components of the biological stain to facilitate biological stain removal from the substrate or said coating. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110312057 | LIPASE-CONTAINING POLYMERIC COATINGS FOR THE FACILITATED REMOVAL OF FINGERPRINTS - A substrate or coating is provided that includes a lipase with enzymatic activity toward a component of a fingerprint. Also provided is a process for facilitating the removal of fingerprints is provided wherein an inventive substrate or coating including a lipase is capable of enzymatically degrading of one or more components of the fingerprint to facilitate fingerprint removal from the substrate or said coating. Applying heat to the substrate or coating increases the rate of fingerprint removal. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311880 | ACTIVE MATERIAL FOR RECHARGEABLE BATTERY - An electrochemical device, such as a magnesium-ion battery, comprises a first electrode including a first active material, a second electrode, and an electrolyte located between the first electrode and the second electrode. The electrolyte may include a magnesium compound, such as a magnesium salt. In representative examples, an improved active material includes a group | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110307139 | COMPUTATIONALLY EFFICIENT INTERSECTION COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM - The present invention discloses a back-propagating intersection collision avoidance (ICA) system for preventing two or more vehicles from colliding at an intersection. The ICA system can calculate predicted positions of the two or more vehicles in the near future, and both the current and future positions can be broadcast to surrounding vehicles using vehicle-to-vehicle communication. For each vehicle, a set of states, for example position, speed, acceleration, and the like, where a collision is imminent can be identified using state information for a local vehicle, a remote vehicle, and a known collision zone for the intersection. If the current states of the vehicles are determined to be in danger of entering the collision zone, the ICA system can control the vehicles to perform evasive driving maneuvers and/or alert the drivers. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303828 | SELECTIVELY TRANSLUCENT WINDOW - A system and method for controlling the intensity of light into a cabin space is provided. The system includes a controller in communication with a window. The window is configured to have variable transmittance. The system further includes a sensor operable to detect the state of a pupil. The sensor is also in communication with the controller. The controller processes the state of an iris of a user so as to adjust the transmissivity of the window. Accordingly, the intensity of light entering into a cabin space may be controlled so as to facilitate the vision of the occupants. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110299154 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL REFLECTOR - An omnidirectional reflector that reflects a band of electromagnetic radiation of less than 100 nanometers when viewed from angles between 0 and 45 degrees is provided. The omnidirectional reflector includes a multilayer stack having a plurality of layers of high index of refraction material and a plurality of layers of low index of refraction material. In addition, the plurality of high index of refraction material layers and low index of refraction material layers are alternately stacked on top of or across each other and provide a non-periodic layered structure. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298808 | Animated Vehicle Attendance Systems - In one embodiment, an animated vehicle attendant system may include: a communication path positioned within a vehicle; an avatar creation interface positioned within a passenger compartment of the vehicle and communicatively coupled to the communication path; a first display positioned within the passenger compartment of the vehicle and communicatively coupled to the communication path, wherein the first display includes a first processor and a first memory; a second display positioned within the passenger compartment of the vehicle and communicatively coupled to the communication path, wherein the second display includes a second processor and a second memory; and an animated avatar including one or more alterable visual characteristics. The animated avatar is stored in the first memory and/or the second memory. The first processor and/or the second processor executes machine readable instructions to: receive input from the avatar creation interface; update the one or more alterable visual characteristics based upon the input from the avatar creation interface; and present the animated avatar on the first display and/or the second display. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295420 | Autonomous Robot Charging Stations and Methods - A method of charging a robotic device using a charging station is provided. The method includes signaling a controller of the charging station to actuate a moveable barrier of the charging station from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The charging station is recessed into a wall, ceiling and/or floor. The moveable barrier is actuated from the closed configuration to the open configuration thereby exposing an electrical contact of the charging station configured to engage a charging contact of the robotic device for a charging operation. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295408 | PROCESS FOR POSITIONING A WORKPIECE - A process for accurately determining a workpiece position in relation to a reference coordinate system is provided. The process includes providing a machine having a table and a machine coordinate system, determining locations of three reference geometric aspects of the table, providing a workpiece, and attaching the workpiece to the table. Thereafter, locations of three geometrical aspects of the workpiece are determined using photogrammetry followed by calculation of any offset between the three reference geometrical aspects of the table and the three geometrical aspects of the workpiece. Any offset that has been determined can then be used to accurately determine the workpiece position in relation to the reference coordinate system. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291430 | Front End Structures and Lower Grille Assemblies for Vehicles - A lower grille assembly for connection with a front bumper structure of a vehicle includes a frame and a plurality of widthwise extending grille deflectors extending between sides of the frame, spaced-apart from each other along a height of the lower grille assembly. At least one grille deflector has one or more scoop regions having a trailing edge that extends upwardly such that the trailing edge is located above a leading edge of the scoop region for directing the air flowing by the trailing edge of the scoop region in an upward direction. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290652 | Electrodeposition Painting Systems And Methods For Electrode Sterilizing In Electrodeposition Painting Systems - Electrodeposition painting systems may include an electrodeposition bath containing an electrodeposition paint solution, wherein the electrodeposition paint solution is in contact with an electrodeposition bath anode that charges the paint such that it electrocoats parts submerged therein to form electrocoated parts, a rinse tank that rinses the electrocoated parts, wherein a rinse tank reservoir of the rinse tank is capable of fluid communication with the electrodeposition bath, a filter that filters the electrodeposition paint solution to separate filtered water from the paint, and an ionizer assembly including one or more electrodes in contact with the filtered water and a power supply connected to the one or more electrodes, wherein the power supply causes a plurality of electrode ions from the one or more electrodes to enter the filtered water to produce filtered water including electrode ions such that the filtered water including electrode ions flows into and sterilizes the electrodeposition paint solution. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290596 | Vehicle Chocking Systems And Methods Of Using The Same - Vehicle chocking systems include a first chock comprising a first bottom surface, a first front wheel restraining surface and a first rear wheel restraining surface opposite the first front wheel restraining surface, a second chock comprising a second bottom surface, a second front wheel restraining surface and a second rear wheel restraining surface, wherein the first bottom surface, the first front wheel restraining surface and the first rear wheel restraining surface of the first chock and the second bottom surface, the second front wheel restraining surface and the second rear wheel restraining surface of the second chock each comprises a proximity sensor, wherein the proximity sensors are communicatively coupled to a controller comprising a processor and a memory having a computer readable and executable instruction set to determine if the proximity sensors for each of the first bottom surface, the second bottom surface and opposing wheel restraining surfaces are engaged. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110285179 | HEADLINER COMPRESSION STIFFENER - The present invention provides for a vehicle headliner having localized compressed stiffeners to increase rigidity and decrease brittleness. The headliner compression stiffener adds rigidity to the headliner substrate without adding additional cost or additional weight. At least one compression stiffener is added to a vehicle headliner to an area of the vehicle headliner requiring increased rigidity qualities. The stiffener is an elongated indentation formed by firmly compressing an object into the substrate of a headliner. The substrate of the vehicle headliner includes a first predetermined density in areas where the stiffener is not located. A second density is localized in the headliner substrate in the area directly below the indentation of the stiffener. The predetermined first density is lower in measurement than the second density of the substrate directly below the indentation of the stiffener. By increasing density in the area directly below the stiffener indentations, the headliner as a whole is stronger in areas near the stiffener indentations without increasing weight or substantially increasing cost. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110285161 | SEAT BACK ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRAL REINFORCEMENT STRUCTURE - A seat back assembly including a frame formed of a low density material such as expanded polypropylene (EPP) and a reinforcement structure encapsulated within the frame is provided. The reinforcement structure includes a load transferring surface extending between opposite ends of the seat back. Each end of the reinforcement structure is secured to a vehicle body structure. The reinforcement structure transfers a load placed upon the seat back assembly throughout the frame so as to maintain the structural integrity of the frame under a predetermined load. Specifically, the load transferring surface of the reinforcement structure is in contact with the frame and transfers the load across a predetermined area of the frame and to the vehicle body. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110283676 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ABATING CARBON MONOXIDE IN AN EXHAUST STREAM - A method for abating carbon monoxide in an exhaust stream may include injecting an amount of air into the exhaust stream to produce an air/exhaust mixture; measuring an air/fuel ratio of the air/exhaust mixture; reacting carbon monoxide in the air/exhaust mixture with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst to produce carbon dioxide to abate carbon monoxide in the air/exhaust mixture; measuring a temperature of the catalyst; and adjusting the amount of air injected into the exhaust stream based on the air/fuel ratio or the temperature of the catalyst. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110282537 | VIRTUAL VEHICLE INTERFACE - The present invention discloses a virtual vehicle interface system for use in a motor vehicle. The system can include a screen having a screen region and an image module that is operable to display an image of a portion of the motor vehicle on the screen region. The image can display a feature of the motor vehicle and an information tag can also be displayed and be proximate to the feature. The screen and the image module are operable to rotate the image of the motor vehicle and display different views of the motor vehicle using a remote control device or by pressing an object such as an individual's finger onto and moving it across the screen. In addition, a change of a setting and/or state of the motor vehicle can be altered by activating the information tag. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110280797 | HYDROGEN RELEASE FROM COMPLEX METAL HYDRIDES BY SOLVATION IN IONIC LIQUIDS - A hydrogen release material includes a complex metal hydride and an ionic liquid wherein the hydrogen release material has a lower hydrogen release temperature in comparison to the complex metal hydride alone. Also disclosed is a process of releasing hydrogen from a storage material including the steps of: providing a complex metal hydride; combining the metal hydride with an ionic liquid in a desired amount forming a mixture; and heating the mixture to a temperature releasing hydrogen wherein the temperature is lower in comparison to the complex metal hydride alone. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278882 | GUIDE MEMBER - A guide member for a generally flexible and elongated drive element having a free end that passes through the guide member is disclosed. The guide member can have a plurality of alternating half-tube sections that extend along a desired drive element path. At least one of the plurality of alternating half-tube sections can have a funnel-shaped end that expands an entrance of the half-tube section and is operable to guide the free end of the drive element back along the desired drive element path in the event that the free end of the drive element deviates from the desired drive element path before entering the half-tube section having the funnel-shaped end. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110274287 | AUDIO AMPLIFIER ASSEMBLY HAVING GROUNDING BRACKET - An audio amplifier assembly connected to an automotive vehicle media system by a wiring harness is provided. The audio amplifier assembly includes an amplifier having a chassis, an electronic module attached to the chassis, and a cover attached to the chassis to cover the electronic module. A bracket having a base portion composed of a non-conductive material and a grounding portion composed of a conductive material. The base portion being attached to the amplifier at a first end and attached to the automotive vehicle at a second end to mount the amplifier to the automotive vehicle. The grounding portion extends between the first end and the second end to provide an electrically conductive grounding path between the amplifier and the automotive vehicle. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272959 | STORAGE ASSEMBLY HAVING RETRACTABLE POWER CORD - A storage assembly for use in a passenger compartment of a vehicle provides power to an electronic device from a vehicle power system. The storage assembly includes a storage bin having an exterior surface, an opening, and a storage space accessible through the opening. The storage assembly also includes a door having an outer surface which is pivotally coupled to the storage bin. A retractable cord is attached to a detachable member which is releasably attached to the storage bin. The retractable cord includes a first end having a first connector which is configured to connect the vehicle power system and a second end having a second connector configured to connect to the electronic device. A notch is formed in the housing adjacent the opening. The notch allows the second connector to extend beyond the exterior surface of the housing when a door is in the closed position. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272131 | CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - A system for controlling the climate in a cabin space using the state of a user's hand is provided. The system includes a controller and a heating ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC system). The HVAC system is operable to direct air into the cabin space so as to maintain a predetermined climate within the cabin space. The controller is operable to actuate and control the HVCAC system. The system further includes a handheld sensor operable to detect the state of the user's hand. The handheld sensor is in communication with the controller and transmits the state of the hand to the controller. The controller processes the state of the hand so as to calculate an HVAC system operating setting operable to optimize the user's comfort. The controller then actuates the HVAC system so as to execute the calculated heating ventilation and air conditioning system operating setting. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110271791 | Volume Adjusting Containers - A container for receiving an automotive fluid includes a receptacle body defining a container volume for holding the automotive fluid. The receptacle body includes connecting structure for connecting the receptacle body to a vehicle. The receptacle body is at least partially formed by a shape changing material arranged and configured to change the container volume. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110271766 | TENSILE BAR MARKING FIXTURE - The present invention provides an apparatus and method to accurately scribe benchmarks into a tensile test sample bar. The apparatus includes a base having a planar surface allowing a tensile test sample bar to rest thereupon. The apparatus further includes a guide having two spaced apart edges separated by a predetermined width. The planar surface of the base further includes a plurality of grid lines to properly align the tensile test sample bar. The base further includes at least one securing member adapted to abut and secure the guide during scribing of the tensile test sample bar. The method includes the steps of aligning a tensile test sample bar on the planar surface having a plurality of grid lines and securing the tensile test sample bar on the planar surface by means of the securing members. The guide then provides for an accurate predetermined width of the spacing of the benchmarks scribed onto the tensile test sample bar. By means of a scribe, the user runs the scribe along each of the edges of the guide and scrapes two benchmarks onto the tensile test sample bar. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110264253 | Forming Vehicle Body Models and Other Objects - A computer-implemented method for rapidly forming a vehicle body model includes identifying a vehicle design using a computer. Sectioning data is determined by sectioning the vehicle design into multiple virtual sections using a design program implemented on the computer. The sectioning data is used by a machine to form multiple modeling sections that correspond to the multiple virtual sections. The multiple modeling sections are nested together to form the vehicle body model. The multiple modeling sections are fixed together once the vehicle body model is formed. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110260660 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ABSORBING WASTE ELECTRICITY FROM REGENERATIVE BRAKING IN HYBRIDIZED VEHICLES - The invention relates to a system for absorbing electric energy from regenerative braking. The system includes a battery, a thermoelectric module in thermally-conductive contact with the battery, a generator for generating an electric current from regenerative braking, the generator connected to the battery via a first switch and connected to the thermoelectric module via a second switch, and a sensor for measuring a temperature and a charge state of the battery. The system also comprises a controller for activating and deactivating the first switch and the second switch when certain conditions have been met. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110258831 | SHIM PLACEMENT TOOL - A tool for placing a shim between a housing and a component biased towards the housing is provided. The tool can include a handle and a pair of spaced-apart tongs extending outwardly from the handle. In addition, a shim support surface can be located between the pair of spaced-apart tongs. The spaced-apart tongs and the shim support surface can be dimensioned for a shim to nest between the tongs on the shim support surface. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110255298 | HEADLAMP LIGHT PIPE AND SIDE MARKER INTEGRATION - The present invention provides a headlamp assembly including a light pipe and reflex reflector integration utilizing a single bulb to illuminate both the reflex reflector and the light pipe, simultaneously. The headlamp assembly includes a single light source, a light pipe and a reflex reflector positioned adjacent one another allowing the light source to provide light to both the reflex reflector and the light pipe. The reflex reflector includes a reflecting element and a cutout to allow light to pass though the reflex reflector into the reflecting element. The reflex reflector is adapted to transform light from white to amber thereby creating the side marker function. The headlamp assembly further includes a reflector behind the light source to direct light into the light pipe. The automotive headlamp assembly provides an automotive headlamp assembly that includes a reflex reflector light and a light pipe while reducing cost and decreasing weight. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110251816 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL CALIBRATION OF AN ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for three dimensional calibration of an on-board diagnostics system. In one embodiment, the present invention is a method for calibrating an on-board diagnostic system for an automobile including the steps of generating a three dimensional surface corresponding to an engine operating under a first condition, generating a three dimensional surface corresponding to the engine operating under a second condition, and generating a three dimensional threshold surface using the three dimensional surface corresponding to the engine operating under the first condition and the three dimensional surface corresponding to the engine operating under the second condition. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247980 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO RECOVER WASTE HEAT TO PREHEAT FEED WATER FOR A REVERSE OSMOSIS UNIT - In one embodiment, the present invention includes a liquid processing system. In the liquid processing system, a first liquid source transmits feed liquid to a heat exchange unit while a heat generation unit transmits warm coolant to the heat exchange unit. A heat generation unit warms the feed liquid while cooling the warm coolant. The warmed feed liquid is sent to a pump, and cooled feed liquid from a second liquid source is mixed with the warmed feed liquid as necessary until a target temperature is reached. The warmed feed liquid is sent to a reverse osmosis unit for filtering and the resulting permeate is sent to the liquid utilization unit. The cooled coolant is sent from the heat exchange unit to the storage tank and if the cooled coolant is not cool enough, it is sent to a cooling tower for further cooling. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110246021 | Excursion Prevention Methods & Systems - Excursion prevention methods and systems may include transmitting a speed signal from the vehicle speed sensor to the electronic control unit; transmitting a transmission signal from the transmission sensor to the electronic control unit; transmitting an accelerator pedal signal from the accelerator sensor to the electronic control unit; transmitting a brake pedal signal from the brake sensor to the electronic control unit; executing a machine readable control logic with the electronic control unit to determine if an excursion condition is present based on the speed of the vehicle, the status of the transmission, the application of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle, and the application of the brake pedal of the vehicle; and, transmitting an alert signal from the electronic control unit when the excursion condition is present. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110241196 | COMPLIANT SPRING INTERPOSER FOR WAFER LEVEL THREE DIMENSIONAL (3D) INTEGRATION AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING - The present invention is an apparatus for integrating multiple devices. The apparatus includes a substrate having a first via and a second via, a semiconductor chip positioned on a top portion of the substrate and positioned between the first via and the second via, first and second bumps positioned on the semiconductor chip, and an interposer wafer having a first interposer spring assembly and a second interposer spring assembly, the first interposer spring assembly having a first interposer spring and a first electrical connection attached to the first interposer spring, and the second interposer spring assembly having a second interposer spring and a second electrical connection attached to the second interposer spring. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240557 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REVERSE OSMOSIS PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE USING NORMALIZATION DATA - The present invention can include a reverse osmosis unit, a control system, a display, and/or a memory. The reverse osmosis unit can include a filtration unit, a liquid utilization system, and/or an instrumentation system. The filtration unit includes a plurality of filter banks which each have a plurality of filter unit. The filtration unit receives a feed liquid and generates permeate and concentrate. The permeate is sent to the liquid utilization system, while the concentrate is removed. The instrumentation system can include a plurality of sensors to detect operational data of the feed liquid, permeate, and/or concentrate. Using the operational data and equations, the control unit can calculate the normalized permeate flow rate indicating whether the filters should be cleaned and/or replaced. The operational data and the equations can be used to determine whether the pressure and/or flow can be manipulated without damaging the filters. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110229357 | PUMP ASSEMBLY - The present invention provides a pump assembly having an intake, an outtake, and a rotor rotatably mounted to a shaft. A propeller is fixedly mounted to the upstream portion of the rotor and is rotatable upon actuation of the rotor. A passageway is disposed on the rotor so as to provide a path for fluids to cool the shaft. The pump assembly includes chamber and a pipe. The chamber is disposed within the housing and is located downstream the intake and is in communication with the passageway. The pipe interconnects the chamber with the outtake. An impeller is fixedly mounted to the rotor. opposite the propeller and draws air bubbles from the passageway into the chamber. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110228549 | HEADLAMP BULB TYPE LIGHT PIPE - The present invention provides an automotive headlamp assembly having a light pipe. The present invention provides use of at least one incandescent light bulb to illuminate the light pipe. Power consumption is reduced from approximately 35 watts to 10 watts. The present assembly consists of a light pipe, at least one light source positioned at either end of the light pipe, the light source being an incandescent light bulb, at least one reflector and an elongated reflector positioned adjacent the light pipe. The reflector is positioned adjacent the light source to capture light from the light bulb, concentrate the light into a beam and reflect the light into the light pipe. The reflector aims light directly down the light pipe without the use of cable or LED mounted to the light pipe. The reflector prevents lost light and creates a more efficient headlamp assembly. The light pipe is a generally cylindrical elongated member having a plurality of attachment members. Light pipe and attachment members are molded as a one piece construction. Furthermore, an elongated reflector is positioned adjacent the light pipe thereby preventing lost light and creating the illusion of a brighter light pipe. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110222239 | COOLING DEVICES, POWER MODULES, AND VEHICLES INCORPORATING THE SAME - A cooling device may include a fluid inlet manifold, a case body, and a fluid outlet manifold that are formed of a molded polymer composite material. The fluid inlet manifold may include a fluid inlet channel and a fluid inlet reservoir. The case body may include a plurality of cooling channels extending from a first surface of the case body to a second surface of the case body. The cooling channels may fluidly couple the first surface of the case body to the fluid inlet reservoir. The fluid outlet manifold may further include a fluid outlet channel and a fluid outlet reservoir. The cooling channels may fluidly couple the second surface of the case body to the fluid outlet reservoir. The fluid inlet channel, cooling channels, and fluid outlet channels may include a cross-section topology. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110218725 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR VARYING AN OUTPUT OF A DRIVEFORCE UNIT BASED ON LOAD DATA - A method and system for varying an output of a driveforce unit based on load data. The present invention includes an automobile including a driveforce system. The driveforce system includes a driveforce unit for generating an output according to a driveforce map, a memory for storing the driveforce map, a load determination unit for determining a load data indicating a load on the automobile, a speed sensor for detecting speed data indicating a speed of the automobile and/or an acceleration of the automobile, an acceleration input device for detecting acceleration input data indicating a percent application of the acceleration input device, and a processor. The processor receives the acceleration input data, the speed data, and the load data, and adjusts a driveforce curve in the driveforce map to maintain a speed of the automobile, even when the load data indicates an increased or decreased load on the automobile. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110218722 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADAPTIVE ELECTRONIC DRIVEFORCE UNIT CONTROL - The present invention is a method and system for adaptive electronic driveforce unit control based on the weather. An automobile can include, for example a driveforce system. The driveforce system can include a driveforce unit, an acceleration input device, a memory, a speed sensor, and/or a weather detection system. The acceleration input device can generate acceleration input data. The driveforce unit can generate an output based on the corresponding acceleration input data from a driveforce curve in a driveforce map. The driveforce map can be stored in the memory. The speed sensor can detect speed data indicating a speed and/or acceleration of the automobile. The weather detection system includes a moisture detection system detecting moisture data, a temperature sensor detecting temperature data, and a windshield wiper detection system detecting windshield wiper data. The processor adjusts the driveforce curve in the driveforce map based on the weather data. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110216502 | POWER MODULES, COOLING DEVICES AND METHODS THEREOF - A jet impingement cooling device may include a jet structure and a target layer. The jet structure may include at least one fluid jet operable to produce an impingement jet of cooling fluid. The target layer may further include a heat receiving surface configured to be coupled to a heat generating device and a jet impingement target surface. The jet impingement target surface may further include at least one target structure having a wavy-fin topology with a fin peak, wherein the fluid jet and the target structure are arranged such that the fin peak of the target structure is aligned with a centerline of the impingement jet of cooling fluid during operation of the jet impingement cooling device. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110207015 | FUEL CELL ELECTRODES WITH TRIAZOLE MODIFIED POLYMERS AND MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES INCORPORATING SAME - Embodiments of the present anhydrous fuel cell electrodes comprise an anhydrous catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer, wherein the anhydrous catalyst layer comprises at least one catalyst, about 5 mg/cm | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110204904 | CORROSION TESTING METHOD - The present invention discloses a process for determining which material within a vicinity of an electrically conducting material is causing corrosion of the electrically conducting material. The process includes providing a piece of electrically conducting material, a piece of potentially corrosive material that is present in the vicinity of the electrically conducting material, an electrical resistance measuring device and a testing chamber. Thereafter, the piece of electrically conducting material and the piece of potentially corrosive material are placed within the testing chamber and the electrical resisting measuring device monitors the electrical resistance of the piece of electrically conducting material as a function of time. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110202325 | Methods and Systems for Dynamic Wrinkle Prediction - Systems and methods for predicting a dynamic wrinkle property are provided. In one embodiment, a method of predicting a dynamic wrinkle property of a material for incorporation with an upholstered article includes selecting a plurality of material property categories and determining a material property for each selected material property category of a material. A dynamic wrinkle factor is assigned for each material property category based at least in part on the material property associated with the material property category. A dynamic wrinkle weight value is applied to each dynamic wrinkle factor to generate a weighted dynamic wrinkle factor for each material property category. The method further includes determining a predicted dynamic wrinkle score based at least in part on the weighted dynamic wrinkle factors and altering one or more material properties of the material if the predicted dynamic wrinkle score is below a benchmark value. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110196819 | METHOD FOR APPROXIMATION OF OPTIMAL CONTROL FOR NONLINEAR DISCRETE TIME SYSTEMS - A method for approximation of optimal control for a nonlinear discrete time system in which the state variables are first obtained from a system model. Control sequences are then iteratively generated for the network to optimize control variables for the network and in which the value for each control variable is independent of the other control variables. Following optimization of the control variables, the control variables are then mapped onto a recurrent neural network utilizing conventional training methods. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110190968 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MORE EFFICIENT OPERATION OF PLUG-IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES - The present invention relates to a more efficient and/or flexible operation of plug-in electric vehicles. The present invention includes an automobile having an energy conversion unit, an energy storage unit, a user selection unit, a global positioning system, and a control unit. The automobile can operate in a default charging mode, which is either the charge depletion mode or the charge sustaining mode. Upon a user input, the energy conversation unit and/or the energy storage unit can operate in an extended charging mode or a forced charging mode. In the extended charging mode, the SOC is increased or decreased over a predetermined charging range. In the forced charging mode, the SOC is increased until a predetermined charge limit is reached. The present invention can also use global positioning system signals to operate in the charge depletion mode, the charge sustaining mode, the extended charging mode, and/or the forced charging mode. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110180753 | DESTABILIZED AND CATALYZED BOROHYDRIDE FOR REVERSIBLE HYDROGEN STORAGE - A process of forming a hydrogen storage material, including the steps of: providing a first material of the formula M(BH | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110180513 | HALLOW CARBON SPHERES - A hollow carbon sphere having a carbon shell and an inner core is disclosed. The hollow carbon sphere has a total volume that is equal to a volume of the carbon shell plus an inner free volume within the carbon shell. The inner free volume is at least 25% of the total volume. In some instances, a nominal diameter of the hollow carbon sphere is between 10 and 180 nanometers. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110179995 | AUTOMATED FLUID DISPENSER - An automated fluid dispenser for smoothly applying a viscous fluid onto a component is provided. The automated fluid dispenser can have a nozzle with a nozzle tip and a support. The nozzle can be pivotally attached to the support about a pivot axis. In addition, a tension member can be attached to the nozzle, the tension member applying an anti-pivoting force to the nozzle when it pivots about the pivot axis. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110175672 | TUNABLE METAMATERIALS - Examples of the present invention include a metamaterial comprising a plurality of resonators disposed on a substrate, the substrate comprising a dielectric support layer and a relatively thin semiconductor layer, having a Schottky junction between at least one conducting resonator and the semiconductor layer. The properties of the resonator may be adjusted by modifying the physical extent of a depletion region associated with the Schottky junction. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174796 | Vehicles Including Rear Defroster Assemblies with Protective Barriers - A vehicle includes a rear window and a defroster assembly including heating lines extending across the rear window. A protective barrier at least partially covers the heating lines. The protective barrier includes a film that provides a barrier between the heating lines and sulfur gases generated by components of the vehicle. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174090 | VACUUM ASSISTED NUT DROP TEST - The present invention provides for an apparatus for testing a surface coating. An elongated tube having a first end and a second end is provided wherein said second end is open to a holding container. The first end of the elongated tube farther includes a funnel. A planar test panel is adapted to hold a variety of materials to be tested. Such materials include paint, coatings, tape, or other like materials. A separator is fluidly connected to the holding container via a first conduit. A vacuum is fluidly connected to a separator by means of a second conduit. A tester places a plurality of loose test pieces, such as metal nuts or small rocks, into the funnel and the loose test pieces fall through the elongated tube and onto the planar test panel. The loose test pieces then fall into the holding container. The vacuum creates suction through said separator and through the conduits into the holding container thereby removing the loose test pieces from the holding container through the conduit and into the separator. The loose test pieces can then be removed from the separator, and the testing process may easily be repeated. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110169625 | COMBINING DRIVER AND ENVIRONMENT SENSING FOR VEHICULAR SAFETY SYSTEMS - An apparatus for assisting safe operation of a vehicle includes an environment sensor system detecting hazards within the vehicle environment, a driver monitor providing driver awareness data (such as a gaze track), and an attention-evaluation module identifying hazards as sufficiently or insufficiently sensed by the driver by comparing the hazard data and the gaze track. An alert signal relating to the unperceived hazards can be provided. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110165345 | PROCESS TO MAKE STRUCTURED PARTICLES - A process including providing a reactant, the reactant coming into contact with a first material and chemically reacting therewith to form a first compound and produce structured particles is provided. In some instances, second material particles are at least partially coated with the first compound. The first material can contain a transition metal and the reactant can be provided to an afterglow region of a plasma and/or be provided downstream from the afterglow region. The reactant can contain an element such as oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, fluorine, carbon, boride, chloride, and the like. In addition, the reactant can be a gas and the first compound can be an oxide, nitride, sulfide, phosphide, fluoride, carbide, boride, chloride, and/or combinations thereof. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110156946 | DUAL-BAND ANTENNA ARRAY AND RF FRONT-END FOR MM-WAVE IMAGER AND RADAR - The radar includes a PCB having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a processor mounted on the bottom surface of the PCB. The radar includes a second liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the top surface of the printed circuit board, a second microstrip array printed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, the second microstrip array having a patch, a first liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, a first microstrip array printed on the first liquid crystal polymer layer, the first microstrip array having a perforated patch, an antenna positioned underneath the patch and connected to the second microstrip array, and a transmit/receive module connected to a bottom surface of the second liquid crystal polymer layer and configured to transmit a first frequency signal to the first microstrip array and a second frequency signal to the second microstrip array. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110153617 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DESCRIBING AND ORGANIZING IMAGE DATA - The present invention is directed to methods and systems for describing and organizing image data. An analysis system includes a sensor, a processing unit, a machine, a database, and/or a display. The analysis system is connected to an electronic device. The sensor generates sensor data which is imported by the processing unit. The processing unit analyzes the sensor data to determine features of the sensor data such as the subject, the time, the location, the object, the event, and/or the action in the sensor data. The processing unit creates entries for the sensor data in a features index. The processing unit receives a query for an item and uses the features index to determine search results including the item, such as a location and a time of the item. The processing unit can also determine whether a machine has completed its mission using the features in the sensor data. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110148364 | ROBOT BATTERY CHARGING APPARATUSES AND METHODS - Systems and methods for charging a battery of a robot are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a robot battery charging apparatus having a plurality of charging terminals, providing a robot having a plurality of battery terminals, and moving the robot into an engagement position with the robot battery charging apparatus such that the plurality of battery charging terminals contact the plurality of charging terminals. The method further includes detecting whether each battery terminal contacts the corresponding charging terminal in accordance with a first, second and third terminal contact condition. The method further includes providing power to the battery from the robot battery charging apparatus through one or more of the battery and charging terminals upon a verification that all of the battery terminals contacted the corresponding charging terminals in accordance with at least two of the first, second and third terminal contact conditions. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110137572 | Methods for Utilizing Paint Formulations Based on Paint Component Risk Scores - Methods for predicting the performance risk of a paint component are disclosed. The methods include providing a proposed paint formulation, wherein the proposed paint formulation comprises at least one paint component, and identifying previous paint formulations comprising the paint component. The methods further include evaluating formulation similarities between the previous paint formulations and the proposed paint formulation, assigning formulation similarity scores based on the formulation similarities, and determining a paint component risk score for the paint component based on the formulation similarity scores. The proposed paint formulation may be utilized in a manufacturing application when the paint component risk score satisfies a manufacturing threshold value. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110134515 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL UV-IR REFLECTOR - The present invention provides an omnidirectional ultraviolet (UV)-infrared (IR) reflector. The omnidirectional UV-IR reflector includes a multilayer stack having at least three layers, the at least three layers having at least one first index of refraction material A1 and at least one second index of refraction layer B1. The at least one first index of refraction material layer and the at least one second index of refraction material layer can be alternately stacked on top of each other to provide the at least three layers. In addition, the at least one first index of refraction material layer and the at least one second index of refraction material layer each have a predefined thickness of d | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110128616 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL REFLECTOR - An omnidirectional structural color (OSC) having a non-periodic layered structure. The OSC can include a multilayer stack that has an outer surface and at least two layers. The at least two layers can include at least one first index of refraction material layer A | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127822 | SEAT ASSEMBLY HAVING REAR ACTUATED EGRESS MECHANISM - A seat assembly for an automotive vehicle having a rear actuated release mechanism is provided. The seat assembly includes a seat frame, and a seat back pivotally mounted to the seat frame about a pivot axis for movement between a seated position and a stowed position. The seat assembly further includes a release mechanism capable of locking, releasing, and moving the seat back from a seated position to a stowed position. The release mechanism is actuated by a release handle having an elongated slot formed therein. An egress mechanism operable to actuate the release mechanism from the rear of the seat assembly, includes a bracket pivotally attached to the seat frame and having a pin engaged within the slot of the release handle. The rotation of the bracket from a first position to a second position rotates the release handle to actuate the release mechanism to pivot the seat back from the seated position to the stowed position. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127807 | ROOF ASSEMBLIES FOR VEHICLES INCLUDING MOON ROOF ASSEMBLIES - A moon roof assembly for a vehicle includes an actuator-driven panel having an open position and a closed position. A moon roof trim ring at least partially surrounds the panel. The moon roof trim ring includes a control housing for supporting a control system. A control system is located in the control housing. The control system includes a control member that is exposed through an opening in the moon roof trim ring for actuating the control member and moving the panel between the open position and the closed position. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127804 | TRIM RING HAVING REINFORCED SNAP POSTS - A snap post for use in conjunction with a snap lid to attach a trim ring to an opening of a headliner of an automotive vehicle is provided. The snap post includes an elongated leg extending outwardly from the trim ring. The elongated leg has a barb for engaging with the snap lid disposed on a distal end thereof. A support structure provides the elongated leg with sufficient reinforcement to withstand the stress imposed during the installation of the headliner, yet provides sufficient flexibility for the quick and easy attachment of the trim ring to the opening of the headliner. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127803 | AIR DUCT SYSTEM MATING ROOF AIR DUCTS WITH HEADLINER AIR DUCTS - An air duct system which mates an air duct attached to the roof of an automotive vehicle and an air duct attached to a nonexposed surface of a headliner is provided. The air duct system is attached to an air supply which delivers directed air and is disposed between an inner surface of the roof and the nonexposed surface of the headliner. The headliner includes an opening into the passenger compartment of the automotive vehicle. The air duct system includes a first air duct and a second air duct. The first air duct is attached to the inner surface of the roof, and the second air duct is attached to the nonexposed surface of the headliner. Upon installation of the headliner to the roof a portal on the first air duct registers with a portal on the second air duct so as to provide an air flow passage between said first air duct and said second air duct. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127801 | PILLAR FOR VEHICLE BODY STRUCTURE - The present invention provides a pillar of a vehicle body structure for supporting the roof of an automotive vehicle. The pillar includes an outer panel having a side panel attached to an inner panel. The pillar further includes a first and second reinforcing member. The first reinforcing member has a planar surface and a first reinforcing edge. The second reinforcing member also has a planar surface and a second reinforcing edge. The first reinforcing member is spaced apart from the second reinforcing member, and the first and second reinforcing edges abut against respective side panel and inner panel portions so as to transmit load between the outer panel and the inner panel and reduce deformation of the outer panel under a predetermined load. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127800 | CONSTRUCTION FOR AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE - A construction for an automotive vehicle having a generally vertically extending pillar positioned adjacent a door opening as well as a laterally extending cross member having one end aligned with the pillar adjacent its bottom. A gusset has one end secured to one end of the cross member and a second end secured to the pillar. A crush box is attached to the pillar and includes at least a portion aligned with the second end of the gusset to provide a controlled pillar deformation resulting in a constant force-deformation loading of the gusset during a side impact. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127799 | STORAGE PANEL ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE - A storage panel assembly for a vehicle includes a panel having a louvered exterior and internal surfaces. A vent structure is formed on a portion of the panel. At least one jack wrench clip assembly is formed on the portion of the panel including the vent structure. The exterior louvered surface of the panel remains unblemished. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127797 | Vehicle Side Door Structures - A vehicle side door structure includes a door and a rocker panel providing a show surface beneath the door. The rocker panel includes a trim portion providing the show surface and a connecting portion moveably connected to the trim portion by a region of weakness such that the connecting portion is movable relative to the trim portion while connected thereto between an unlatched position and a latched position. The trim portion includes a lowest point and an upwardly extending section that locates a lowermost point of the region of weakness above the lowest point of the trim portion with the connecting portion in the latched position. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127792 | STORAGE PANEL ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE - A storage panel assembly for a vehicle includes a panel having louvered exterior and internal surfaces. A vent structure is formed on a portion of the panel. At least one lug nut retention assembly is formed on the portion of the panel including the vent structure. The exterior louvered surface of the panel remains unblemished. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127791 | CONSOLE ASSEMBLY - A console assembly for use in an automotive vehicle is provided. The console assembly includes a housing having first end wall, a pair of side walls spaced apart from each other, and an open end spaced apart from the first end wall. Each of the pair of side walls has a free end. The free end extends from the first end wall so as to define a first storage compartment. Each of the pair of side walls also includes a slot extending longitudinally from the free end towards the first end wall. The console assembly further includes a storage box slidably engaged within the housing. The storage box has a second end wall and a pair of arms spaced apart from each other. Each of the pair of arms is configured to engage respective slots of the housing. The storage box is operable to move between a first position and a second position. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127096 | Energy Recovery Systems for Vehicles and Vehicle Wheels Comprising the Same - A wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a rim and an energy recovery system. The energy recovery system includes a flywheel, a continuously variable planetary (CVP), a first planetary gear set, and a second planetary gear set. The flywheel is substantially concentric with the rim and operable to rotate relative to the rim. The CVP is positioned within the flywheel and is operable to transmit rotational motion between the flywheel and the rim. The first planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to the rim and the CVP such that rotational motion transmitted between the CVP and the rim is transmitted through the first planetary gear set. The second planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to the CVP, the rim and the flywheel such that rotational motion transmitted between the CVP, the rim and the flywheel is transmitted through the second planetary gear set. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110126470 | WIRE HARNESS PROTECTOR AND TOUCH SENSOR ASSEMBLY - The present invention is a touch sensor assembly for a closing panel of a frame member that at least partially defines an opening and is oppositely disposed from the closing panel. The touch sensor assembly can have an elongated housing dimensioned to attach to a leading edge of the closing panel or a trailing edge of the frame member. The touch sensor assembly can also have a wire harness with a first portion encapsulated within the housing and a second portion that extends a predetermined length from the housing and passes through an aperture in the closing panel or an aperture in the frame member. A wire harness protector is also provided, the protector being attached to the wire harness proximate to the elongated housing. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110123093 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING DEFECTS IN COATINGS UTILIZING COLOR-BASED THERMAL MISMATCH - A method of analyzing a thermal image of a coated substrate to determine the presence of defects includes determining a defect temperature range based on a color of the coated substrate and the maximum temperature of the coated substrate in the thermal image. Thereafter, the thermal image is processed by determining a signal value of a pixel of interest based on a temperature of the pixel of interest, temperatures of pixels in a kernel of pixels surrounding the pixel of interest, and the color of the coated substrate. The signal value of the pixel of interest is then compared to the lower temperature threshold of the defect temperature range, wherein the pixel of interest is a defect location when the signal value of the pixel of interest is greater than or equal to the lower temperature threshold. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110121550 | Instrument Panel Energy Absorption Systems - Energy absorption systems are described herein. Energy absorption systems may include an instrument panel reinforcement extending from a passenger side to a driver side of a vehicle, a bracket secured to the instrument panel reinforcement including a body and a distal strike, and an instrument panel assembly including a passenger facing surface and a catch disposed on the instrument panel assembly, wherein when an impact force is applied to the passenger facing surface of the instrument panel assembly, the catch of instrument panel assembly may engage the strike of the bracket to absorb at least a portion of the impact force. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110118869 | Methods and Systems for Transporting Parts from a Primary Process to a Secondary Process in a First In, First Out Fashion - A method for management of first in, first out stores is provided. The method includes producing parts at a primary process. The parts are processed at a secondary process. A storage region is provided that includes at least one store lane pair including a first store lane and a second store lane. The first store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The second store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The receiving volumes of the first store lane are filled with the parts in the order they are produced at the primary process in a first in, first out fashion from the pick side of the first store lane to the drop side of the first store lane using an automated guided vehicle sized and configured to pass through each of the plurality of receiving volumes. After a last receiving volume nearest the drop side of the first store lane is filled, the receiving volumes of the second store lane are filled using the automated guided vehicle. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110117314 | CONSOLE CARPET - The present invention discloses a carpeted panel having a durable and flexible carpet attached thereto. The panel has a top surface, a bottom surface, and an edge between the top surface and the bottom surface A three-layer carpet is also provided, the three-layer carpet having a latex substrate layer, a fiber layer extending across and attached to one side of the substrate layer, and an adhesive layer extending across and attached to an opposite side of the substrate layer. The adhesive layer firmly attaches the three-layer carpet to the top surface, around the edge and onto the bottom surface of the panel. In addition, the fiber layer covers the latex substrate layer such that the substrate layer is not visible when viewed from the fiber layer side proximate to the edge of the panel. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110115274 | RELEASE STRAP FOR A RECLINER MECHANISM OF AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE SEAT ASSEMBLY - A seat assembly for an automotive vehicle having a release mechanism and a release strap for actuating the release mechanism is provided. The release mechanism is capable of moving a seat back from a seated position to a stowed position. The release strap includes an attachment portion having an attachment end which is fixedly secured to the release mechanism. A gripping portion allows an occupant to quickly and easily grasp and actuate the release strap. The release strap also includes an overlapping portion formed by overlapping a portion of the attachment portion and a portion of the gripping portion so as to present the gripping portion in an upward direction. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110115252 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GUIDING A DRIVE ROD IN A DOOR AFTER AN IMPACT TO THE DOOR - The present invention is a method and system for guiding a drive rod in a door after an impact to the door. The present invention includes an automobile having a door with a door handle, a drive rod, a latching system, a striker, and a drive rod guiding member. The drive rod guiding member can be positioned adjacent to the drive rod. Upon impact to the door, the drive rod can be disengaged from the door handle or the latching system. The drive rod guiding member guides the drive rod away from the door handle or the latching system. By guiding the drive rod away the door handle or the latching system, the drive rod guiding member can prevent the drive rod from re-engaging with the door handle or the latching system. This maintains the door in the closed position instead of the open position. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110109262 | WIRELESS ENERGY TRANSFER ANTENNAS AND ENERGY CHARGING SYSTEMS - A resonant wireless energy transfer system comprises first and second antennas made up of dual parallel wire helixes wherein the wires are terminated by short wires. Voltage controlled variable capacitors are connected into the antennas to permit progressive variation between folded dipole and normal dipole operating modes such that optimum energy transfer can be achieved between the antennas over a wide range of antenna separation distances. A vehicle battery charging system using the above-described antennas is provided including an installation which allows purchase of battery charging power by members of the general public. In-vehicle energy transfer for sensors, computers, cell phones and the like is also described. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110102807 | Detection Methods and Systems - A method for obtaining a measurement in an in-line system for detecting presence of an out-of-parameter part is provided. The method includes conveying a tubular member to a detection system comprising a laser sensor arranged and configured to direct a beam of light onto an upper end surface of the tubular member for obtaining a measurement. The laser sensor is offset from a center of the tubular member such that the beam of light is directed onto an outer side of the upper end surface. The beam of light is directed onto the upper end surface at the outer side of the tubular member and the beam of light moves from a front quadrant of the upper end surface to a rearward quadrant of the upper end surface. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110101827 | ENERGY HARVESTING DEVICE - The present invention discloses an energy harvesting device that converts small magnitude and low frequency vibrations into electrical energy. The device can include a base, a low frequency element, and a piezoelectric element. The low frequency element can be movably attached to the base and the piezoelectric element can also be attached to the base and be spaced apart from the low frequency element with a vacant space therebetween. Upon vibration of the low frequency element resulting from environmental vibrations, the low frequency element can impact the piezoelectric element and cause elastic deformation thereto. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110101726 | BASE FOR USE WITH A CLIP - A headliner assembly configured to retain a visor to the headliner. The headliner has an outer surface opposite an inner surface, and a visor rod aperture. The visor rod aperture is in communication with the inner and outer surface. The headliner assembly including a clip configured to retain an end portion of the visor rod. The clip is disposed on the inner surface of the headliner. The headliner assembly further includes a base having a first portion configured to retain the clip and a second portion. The outer edge of the second portion extends a predetermined distance from the first portion so as to create a moment in equal magnitude of the moment experienced by the clip when the visor rod is installed. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110101288 | Manual Force Reduction Device - The present invention discloses a manual force reduction device for reducing a force required to initiate movement of a load by a separate mechanism. The device can have an energy storage mechanism that has a compressed position and a released position, and the energy storage mechanism can be operable to store a predetermined amount of energy when it is in the compressed position. A latch can be included and be used to hold the energy storage mechanism in the compressed position. At a desired time, a latch release can release the energy storage mechanism from the compressed position such that the predetermined amount of energy is released and transferred to the load. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100740 | Energy Recovery Systems for Vehicles and Wheels Comprising the Same - A wheel assembly for a vehicle may include a rim and an energy recovery system. The energy recovery system may include a flywheel and an infinitely variable transmission (IVT). The flywheel may be concentric with the rim and operable to rotate relative to the rim. The IVT may be positioned within the flywheel and couple the rim to the flywheel. When the vehicle is decelerating and an angular velocity of the rim is greater than an angular velocity of the flywheel, kinetic energy of the rim may be imparted to the flywheel and stored as mechanical potential energy thereby providing a braking force to the vehicle. Alternatively, when the vehicle is accelerating and the angular velocity of the rim is less than the angular velocity of the flywheel, the mechanical potential energy of the flywheel may be imparted to the wheel thereby providing an accelerating force to the vehicle. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110095555 | Vehicle Console Assemblies with Cup Holders and Spill Control Features - A console assembly for a vehicle includes a housing including a front panel extending in a vertical direction. A cup holder assembly is in a cup holder-receiving volume within the housing. The cup holder-receiving volume is at least partially bounded by a partitioning panel having a horizontal portion extending toward the front panel. An interior panel is spaced rearward of the front panel. The interior panel extends in a vertical direction. An electrical component is mounted to at least one of the interior panel and the front panel and located between the interior panel and the front panel. A rib structure extends beyond the horizontal portion of the partitioning panel toward the front panel and that is located between the cup holder assembly and the electrical component. The rib structure is arranged and configured to direct liquid falling from the horizontal portion of the partitioning panel away from the electrical component. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110092149 | VENT ASSEMBLIES - Disclosed is a vent assembly that includes a fin/actuator sub-assembly that includes an aperture, an inner ring that includes a plurality of protrusions, each protrusion including a retention surface, and an annular retaining member, wherein when the annular retaining member is in a retaining engagement with the fin/actuator sub-assembly and the inner ring, a portion of the annular retaining member is disposed within the aperture of the fin/actuator sub-assembly, and portions of the annular retaining member contact the retention surfaces of the protrusions of the inner ring. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110091793 | PROTON CONDUCTING ELECTROLYTE - A cationic conductive polymer is described herein which generally comprises a proton donating polymer and an oxocarbonic acid. The cationic conductive polymer exhibits a high conductivity in low humidity environments. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110091658 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL STRUCTURAL COLOR PAINT - A paint composition is disclosed, the paint having a binder and an omnidirectional structural color pigment dispersed throughout the binder. The omnidirectional structural color pigment can be made from a plurality of flakes that have a multilayer structure, the pigment and the paint having a reflection band of less than 200 nanometers when viewed from angles between 0 to 45 degrees. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110084509 | VEHICLE HVAC CONTROL PANEL RECEPTACLES AND HVAC CONTROL PANEL ASSEMBLIES - A receptacle for receiving an HVAC control panel of a vehicle includes a frame and at least one unlocking lever. The frame may define an opening for receiving the HVAC control panel. The at least one unlocking lever may include a handle portion, a shoulder and a tapered portion. The tapered portion pivotally connects the at least one unlocking lever to an underside of the frame while the handle portion may extend from the tapered portion such that, when the handle portion is actuated, the at least one unlocking lever may be elastically flexible with respect to the frame. The shoulder portion is disposed on the at least one unlocking lever between the handle portion and the tapered portion and is operable to engage and retain the HVAC control panel in the frame when the HVAC control panel is inserted into the frame. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110082632 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING BRAKING INFORMATION - The present invention relates to a method and system for displaying braking information such as energy dissipation braking information and regenerative braking information. The present invention can be an automobile including an energy dissipation braking system, a regenerative braking system, an energy dissipation braking sensor, a regenerative braking sensor, an energy conversions system, an energy storage unit, an energy storage sensor, a processor, an engine, and/or a display. The processor, energy dissipation braking sensor, and/or the regenerative braking system can acquire and analyze energy dissipating braking data and regenerative braking data in an automobile to determine appropriate braking information for display to a user on the display. Such braking information can include, for example, an energy efficiency rate, and/or an application percentage of the energy dissipation braking system and/or the regenerative braking system. The braking information can also be displayed in various modes to indicate desirable braking applications. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110076738 | SOLVENT-BORNE POLYMERIC BIOACTIVE COATINGS FOR THE FACILITATED REMOVAL OF BIOORGANIC STAINS - Protein-polymer composite materials are provided according to embodiments of the present invention that include an admixture of a polymer resin, a surfactant and a non-aqueous organic solvent. An aqueous solution containing bioactive proteins is mixed with the admixture. The emulsion is mixed with a crosslinker to produce a curable composition. The curable composition is cured, thereby producing the protein-polymer composite material that is useful for facilitating removal of bioorganic stains. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110074175 | Vehicle Rear End Assemblies with Storage Assemblies - A vehicle storage assembly of a vehicle includes a deployable and retractable shelf member connected to a tailgate of the vehicle. In a deployed configuration, the shelf member is supported spaced-above the tailgate to provide a horizontal support surface with the tailgate in an open position and the shelf member is supported spaced horizontally from the tailgate to provide a sidewall of a storage compartment with the tailgate in a closed position. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110069377 | PLANAR GRADIENT INDEX OPTICAL METAMATERIALS - An apparatus comprises a metamaterial including a first conducting layer, a second conducting layer, and a dielectric layer located between the first conducting layer and the second conducting layer. Each conducting layer has holes formed therethrough, for example as an array of holes formed through the metamaterial. The holes are configured so that the metamaterial has a gradient refractive index at an operational wavelength. The operational wavelength may be an IR or visible wavelength. The apparatus may be an optical element, and for example may have the functionality of a lens or prism through the refractive index gradient. Interfaces may be parallel planar interfaces. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110068598 | SLIDING CONSOLE WITH LOCK ASSEMBLY - The sliding console assembly includes a lock assembly housing, a lock assembly, and a slidable storage compartment. The lock assembly housing is configured to house and guide the movement of a lock assembly. The lock assembly housing is fixedly mounted to the slidable storage compartment. The lock assembly has a plate slidable within the lock assembly housing between a first position and a second position. The plate also includes a pair of operative surfaces. The operative surfaces are spaced apart from each other, and are generally symmetrical to the other. The operative surfaces are disposed at an angle relative to the rails. The lock assembly also includes a pair of retainers and a first biasing member. A cable is attached to a pair of handles on one end and the plate on the other end. The handles actuate the lock assembly and disengage the lock assembly from the rails. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110068547 | Lock and Release Mechanisms for Interconnecting Devices - A method of releasably connecting a child hand truck to a parent hand truck is provided. The method includes lifting a handle assembly to a raised position. The handle assembly is locked in the raised position using a lock and release mechanism. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110062747 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISENGAGING A DRIVE ROD IN A DOOR AFTER AN IMPACT TO THE DOOR - The present invention is a method and system for disengaging a drive rod in a door after an impact to the door. The present invention includes an automobile having a door with a door handle, a drive rod, a latching system, a striker, and a drive rod striking member. The drive rod striking member can be positioned adjacent the drive rod. Upon impact to the door, the drive rod is disengaged from the door handle and/or the latching system through inertia, the drive rod striking member impacting the drive rod, or any other means. The drive rod striking member prevents the drive rod from re-engaging with the latching system. The disengagement of the drive rod prevents the drive rod from controlling the latching system to disengage from the striker, either through deformation of the door, or through actuations by the door handle. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061535 | BUBBLE REDUCTION SYSTEM - A bubble reduction system for a fluid flowing system is provided. The bubble reduction system can include a vat containing a fluid, a pump operable to pump the fluid into the vat, a moat containing a portion of the fluid and a bubble trap also containing a portion of the fluid. The bubble trap can have an upstream section and a downstream section with a panel located between the two sections. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110059265 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING LAYERED MATERIALS USING LONG-LIVED PHOTO-INDUCED ACTIVE CENTERS - The invention relates to a method for applying a photo-activated layered polymer coating to a substrate material in which one or more layers do not contain photoinitiator, or are not exposed to initiating light, but cure due to migration of cationic active centers. At least two separate monomer layers are applied to the substrate material. At least one of the monomer layers includes a photoinitiator capable of producing cationic active centers. The at least one layer including the photoinitiator is exposed to a source of UV radiation at a desired wavelength forming cationic active centers. The at least two separate monomer layers react in a polymerization reaction forming a cured layered material. The cationic active centers of the exposed monomer layer migrate to the unexposed layer such that both layers cure via the polymerization reaction. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110057480 | Front End Assemblies for Vehicles - A lower grille assembly for connection with a front bumper structure of a vehicle includes a frame and a covering portion supported by the frame. A lower grille cavity filler extends downwardly beyond the frame. The lower grille cavity filler is sized and arranged to be received within a cavity formed by the front bumper structure and located below the lower grille assembly. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110049871 | SELF ALIGNING COUPLING - A self aligning coupling system for aligning one end of tubing to another end of tubing is disclosed. The self aligning coupling system can include a first coupling member which is engageable with a second coupling member, each coupling member being generally cylindrical and having a flange projecting axially from a first segment of a circumference thereof and a flange-free portion defined by a remainder of the circumference. The first and second coupling members are configured so that when the first coupling member is engaged with the second coupling member, the flange of the first coupling member contacts the flange-free portion of the second coupling member and the flange of the second coupling member contacts the flange-free portion of the first coupling member. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110049754 | Methods of Creating Soft Formed Hoses and Molds - A method of forming hoses is provided. The method includes generating a virtual design for at least one of a solid durable core and a hollow sacrificial core. At least one of the solid durable core and the hollow sacrificial core is formed using rapid prototyping. A mold cavity is formed using the solid durable core. The hose is formed about the hollow sacrificial core with the hollow sacrificial core in the mold cavity. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110046846 | PROCESS AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AIR QUALITY WITHIN AN INTERIOR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - The present invention discloses a process for controlling air quality within an interior of a motor vehicle. The process can include providing a motor vehicle with a heating-venting-air conditioning (HVAC) system, the HVAC system having an internal air supply option and an external air supply option. The process can also include providing a reinforcement learning system that can increase the air quality within the motor vehicle as a function of user preferences with respect to choosing the external air supply or the internal air supply. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042987 | THREE PANEL HEAT STAKE STRUCTURE - A trim panel assembly which provides support for the interior panels during a heat staking process, even when the interior panels overlap an outer panel, is provided. The trim panel assembly includes a first support boss extending from an inner surface and an outer surface which is adjacent a weld horn backing plate during the heat staking process. A second panel includes an outwardly extending elongated stud extending from an inner surface, and a support boss extending from an outer surface. An accessory panel having an aperture is aligned with the second panel such that the elongated stud passes through the aperture. During the heat staking process pressure is applied to the stud of the second panel which is supported by the weld horn backing plate through the contact between the support boss of the first panel and the boss of the second panel. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042972 | Vehicle Handle Assemblies Including Anti-Pinch Features - A vehicle interior handle assembly includes a handle comprising a front wall and a back wall. The front wall and back wall define a downwardly open pocket sized to receive one or more of an operator's fingers for a pulling operation to move the handle between latch and unlatch positions. A panel is adjacent the handle. The panel has a portion located behind the pocket with the handle in the latch position and a portion below the pocket with the handle in the latch position. The panel has an outer surface facing the handle having a contour such that a distance from the outer surface of the panel to an end of the back wall of the handle is maintained at less than a maximum distance as the handle is moved from the latch position to the unlatch position the maximum distance selected to prevent placement of a finger between the outer surface and the end of the back wall of the handle. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110041584 | DOOR LEVELER - An apparatus for aligning and leveling an associated vehicle door having an elongated member, a head member attached to said elongated member adapted to engage a vehicle door lock recess, a support member extending downwardly from said elongated member towards a vehicle door and a support plate attached to said support member adapted to rest on said vehicle door. The apparatus is designed to aid in the leveling and aligning processes of a vehicle door after assembly of the vehicle. The elongated member may include a series of bends to improve the ergonomic efficiency of the vehicle door leveler. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110040461 | Systems and Methods for Controlling Manual Transmissions - A method for controlling a manual transmission of a vehicle includes providing a manual transmission comprising a shift fork actuator and a shifter assembly comprising a shift lever, a shift knob disposed on the shifter lever, a shift lever position sensor and a shifter tactile sensor. The tactile sensor may be used to determine when pressure is applied to the shift knob of the shifter assembly and, when pressure is applied to the shift knob, vehicle operating parameters are monitored. A predicted gear selection is determined based on the monitored vehicle operating parameters. An operator gear selection is then determined based on the shift lever position sensor when the shift lever is moved. The operator gear selection is compared to the predicted gear selection and, when the predicted gear selection is the same as the operator gear selection, the manual transmission is shifted to the predicted gear selection. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110037289 | DOOR TRIM PANEL HAVING TEMPORARY SUPPORT AND PIVOT MEMBERS AND METHOD OF INSTALLING THE DOOR TRIM PANEL - A door assembly for an automotive vehicle is provided. The door assembly includes a support structure having an upper section and a lower section. A pair of apertures are formed on the upper section of the support structure. A trim panel has an interior surface facing the passenger compartment of the automotive vehicle, an outer surface facing the support structure, top end and a lower end. A pair of pivot members are located adjacent the top end of the trim panel to engage the pair of apertures on the support structure. The pivot members allow the trim panel to be pivoted between a first position and a second position where the lower section of the support structure is spaced apart from the lower end of the trim panel. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110037287 | VEHICLE CONSOLE ASSEMBLIES WITH ASSOCIATED VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEMS FOR ILLUMINATING CUP HOLDER AND STORAGE BIN ASSEMBLIES - A lighting assembly for illuminating a console assembly of a vehicle includes a cup holder assembly in the console assembly having a cup-receiving volume. A storage bin in the console assembly has a storage volume. A light source assembly is mounted within the console assembly. The light source assembly illuminates the cup-receiving volume directly and illuminates the storage bin indirectly. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110032719 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE POSITION OF A BUMPER FASCIA - A headlamp assembly for an automotive vehicle having a bumper fascia which restrains the movement of the bumper fascia is provided. The bumper fascia includes an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface which faces the engine compartment of the automotive vehicle. The headlamp assembly includes a headlamp housing for receiving a lamp unit. A lens is attached to the headlamp housing to cover a portion of the front end so as to protect the lamp unit. A protrusion extending from a bottom side of the headlamp housing engages with a notch formed on the interior surface of the bumper to control the position of the bumper fascia relative to the headlamp housing. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110031773 | REAR VEHICLE SEAT RELEASE AND CARRYING HANDLE - The present invention discloses a removable rear seat assembly for use in a motor vehicle having a passenger compartment and a vehicle floor. A seat frame is mounted to the vehicle floor. A release mechanism is provided operatively connecting the seat frame to the vehicle floor as to prevent movement of the seat frame. A release handle is mounted to a rear of the seat frame and is connected to the release mechanism for purposes of activating the release mechanism. The release handle may also be used as a carrying handle allowing for increased maneuverability of the seat frame after removal. The seat frame is removable from the passenger compartment upon a downward pulling and upward rotation of the release handle. This specific movement requirement prevents the inadvertent release of the seat frame from the vehicle floor. The release handle is prevented from an immediate rotation upwards preventing a vehicle occupant from activating the release mechanism by kicking or lifting the release handle. The release handle is freely rotatable downwards to the vehicle floor creating a breakaway feature allowing a vehicle occupant to step on or kick the release handle without activating the release mechanism. These safety features prevent the inadvertent release of the seat frame. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110028612 | SELF-STRATIFYING COATING - The present invention discloses a reactivity-based self-stratifying coating composition. The coating composition can include a polyol, silsesquioxane, a polyester polyol, and a crosslinker that form a mixture within a solvent. The polyol can be selected from a fluorinated polyether, a fluoroethylene-alkyl vinyl ether and/or a combination thereof. The silsesquioxane can be an epoxy functional silsesquioxane having a formula of (R) | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110028077 | HEADLINER DUCT - A headliner duct for a heating-venting-air conditioning (HVAC) system in a motor vehicle is provided. The headliner duct can include a headliner and an elongated thermoformed aircap that has a wall and is bonded to a top side of the headliner. The thermoformed aircap and the headliner form an air duct, the air duct having an inlet and being operable to have an air flow pass therethrough. The elongated thermoformed aircap has an air-kick that is integral with the wall of the aircap and extends into an air flow region thereof. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110027040 | FASTENER ASSEMBLY - A fastener assembly for attaching a fastener to an opening of a sheet material is disclosed. The sheet material is typically located adjacent to a base structure and the fastener assembly affords radial movement of the fastener relative to the opening of the sheet material. The radial movement allows the fastener to be aligned with a desired location on the base structure, e.g. a threaded aperture—after being attached to the sheet material. In this manner, the fastener assembly provides for the placement of the fastener in difficult to reach and/or see locations until it can be attached to the base structure. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110022210 | PROCESS FOR SELECTING SURROGATE PART - A process for selecting a surrogate part for metallic plating, the metallic plating of the surrogate part predicting results for the metallic plating of a new or predetermined part is disclosed. The process can include providing a reinforcement learning system having a memory circuitry and a processing circuitry. The memory circuitry can have a database with data associated with a plurality of surrogate parts and data associated with the predetermined part can be entered into the data input module. The processing circuitry can compare the data associated with each of the plurality of surrogate parts and the data associated with the predetermined part and select a surrogate part that affords predicting a plating result of the predetermined part. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110021131 | Vehicle Air Sysem Assemblies with Aircap Assemblies - An air system assembly for a vehicle includes a carpet module and an HVAC unit above the carpet module. A floor aircap assembly is associated with the carpet module and has a vertical portion extending upwardly above the carpet module and a horizontal portion extending below the carpet module. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110016428 | NESTED SCROLLING SYSTEM - A nested scrolling system that can scroll through an electronically stored list is provided. The system can include a database, a display screen, a first scrolling control and a second scrolling control. The database can have an electronically stored list with a plurality of entries, the plurality of entries stored under a first level storage category and/or a second level storage category. The second scrolling control can be nested within the first scrolling control with movement of the first scrolling control scrolling through the plurality of entries on a micro level and movement of the second scrolling control scrolling through the plurality of entries on a macro level. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110014366 | STRUCTURAL COLORS HAVING UV REFLECTANCE VIA SPRAY LAYER-BY-LAYER PROCESSING - A process for fabricating a structural color having ultraviolet reflectance is provided. The process includes providing an atomizing nozzle, a first nanoparticle solution and a second nanoparticle solution. The atomizing nozzle is used to spray a plurality of first nanoparticle solution layers, the plurality of first nanoparticle layers forming a low index of refraction stack. In some instances, a polymer solution can be sprayed before and/or after the spraying of each first nanoparticle solution layer. The atomizing nozzle is also used to spray a plurality of second nanoparticle solution layers, the plurality of second nanoparticle layers form a high index of refraction stack. Similar to the first nanoparticle solution layers, a polymer solution can be sprayed before and/or after the spraying of each second nanoparticle solution layer. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110012718 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING GAPS BETWEEN OBJECTS - The present invention is directed to a method and system to determine gaps, such as parking spaces, between objects. A sensor acquires a set of scanning data. A noise filter unit filters the set of scanning data and a data derivative unit generates a set of derivative data from the set of scanning data. A data analysis unit determines locations of gaps by selectively analyzing the set of derivative data which exceed a first predetermined distance and/or a second predetermined distance. The gap definition unit determines the substantial locations, shapes, and sizes of the gaps based on the previously defined location from the data analysis unit. A report generation unit generates a report including the set of gaps defined by the gap definition unit. The report is displayed on a display in a color coded format easily visible and discernable to a driver of the automobile. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110009504 | PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANES (PEM) BASED ON HYBRID INORGANIC-ORGANIC COPOLYMERS WITH GRAFTED PHOSPHORIC ACID GROUPS AND IMPLANTED METAL CATIONS - A proton exchange membrane comprises a hybrid inorganic-organic polymer that includes implanted metal cations. Acid groups are bound to the hybrid inorganic-organic polymer through an interaction with the implanted metal cations. An example process for manufacturing a proton exchange membrane includes sol-gel polymerization of silane precursors in a medium containing the metal cations, followed by exposure of the metal-implanted hybrid inorganic-organic polymer to an acid compound. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110008680 | HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTROLYTE - An organic electrolyte solvent includes a compound of the formula: R | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110006274 | Lubricating Systems, Lubricant Atomizing Devices and Methods of Using the Same - A portable hand-held lubricant atomizing device includes an inlet for receiving pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source. A flow control mechanism is associated with the inlet for controlling delivery of the pressurized gas. A lubricant tank includes a wire pulling lubricant. An atomizing chamber is provided in where a lubricant spray is produced using the wire pulling lubricant and pressurized gas. An outlet downstream of the atomizing chamber is sized to deliver the lubricant spray to an inner surface of an outer conduit. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110006254 | PROCESS TO MAKE ELECTROCHEMICALLY ACTIVE/INACTIVE NANOCOMPOSITE MATERIAL - A process for making an first material/second material nanocomposite is disclosed. The process can include providing a precursor that contains an electrochemically active and an electrochemically inactive material. Thereafter, the precursor can be suspended in an aerosol gas to produce an aerosol and a plasma having a high field zone can be provided. The aerosol can be passed through the high field zone of the plasma and result in the vaporization of at least part of the precursor in the aerosol. The precursor that has been vaporized in the high field zone is subsequently removed therefrom and allowed to condense into an first material/second material nanocomposite with at least one electrochemically active material. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110000614 | PAD FOR USE UNDER A COVERING LAYER - The present invention discloses a pad for use under a covering layer. The pad can include a mat with at least one off-all portion, the at least one off-all portion having a puzzle-piece shape. The mat has a bounding portion that is complementary shaped with at least part of the at least one off-all portion, and the bounding portion and the off-all portion have an interference fit therebetween. The interference fit between the bounding portion and the at least one off-all portion provides for the off-all portion to be removably attached to the mat. In addition, removal of the at least one off-all portion from the mat provides an opening for a component to be nested therewithin, while not removing the at least one off-all portion provides structural support to the covering layer that is located over the mat. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20100333070 | Multiple ECU Software-In-The-Loop Simulation Environment - The invention relates to methods for evaluating the performance of a system having a plurality of electronic control unit (ECU) software programs. A plurality of first memory spaces are allocated for use by the software programs. At least one second memory space is allocated to be in communication with these first memory spaces. The output of at least one first software program is stored in at least one of said first memory spaces associated with that program, wherein said output is subsequently transmitted to at least one said second memory space, and wherein said output is further subsequently transmitted to at least one of said first memory spaces associated with at least one second software program. From this location, said output is accessed as an input for said second software program. The performance of the system is evaluated by executing said software programs and determining if the outputs of said programs satisfy the criteria of the system. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100332090 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED CONTROL OF TRANSMISSION RATIO CHANGE - The present invention relates to a method and system for automated control of transmission ratio change which balances the requirements for power with energy efficiency. A plurality of sensors detect environmental conditions of a vehicle. An environmental conditions analysis unit analyzes the environmental conditions to determine whether the detected environmental conditions indicate a likelihood of a transmission ratio increase. When the detected environmental conditions indicate the likelihood of the transmission ratio increase, an automatic transmission changes in operation from a normal state to a prepared state. However, after a predetermined amount of time, the automatic transmission changes from the prepared state back to the normal state when there is no user indication that the transmission ratio should be increased. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100323273 | FUEL CELL ELECTRODES WITH TRAIZOLE MODIFIED POLYMERS AND MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLIES INCORPORATING SAME - Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to fuel cell electrodes in membrane electrode assemblies, and methods of making same wherein the fuel cell electrodes comprise a catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer. The catalyst layer comprises at least one catalyst, phosphoric acid and a binder comprising at least one triazole modified polymer. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100322846 | BRONSTED ACID DESTABILIZATION OF COMPLEX METAL HYDRIDES - In one aspect, there is disclosed a process of forming a hydrogen material including the steps of providing a metal hydride material, providing a Bronsted acid material, combining the metal hydride material and Bronsted acid material, and pyrolyzing the combined material forming a hydrogen storage material having a hydrogen release temperature less than the metal hydride material. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100322507 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING DROWSY FACIAL EXPRESSIONS OF VEHICLE DRIVERS UNDER CHANGING ILLUMINATION CONDITIONS - The present invention includes a method of detecting drowsy facial expressions of vehicle drivers under changing illumination conditions. The method includes capturing an image of a person's face using an image sensor, detecting a face region of the image using a pattern classification algorithm, and performing, using an active appearance model algorithm, local pattern matching to identify a plurality of landmark points on the face region of the image. The method also includes generating a 3D face model with facial muscles of the face region, determining photometric flows from the 3D face model using an extract photometric flow module, determining geometric flows from the 3D face model using a compute geometric flow module, determining a noise component generated by varying illuminations by comparing the geometric flows to the photometric flows, and removing the noise component by subtracting two photometric flows. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100320812 | SINGLE MOTION LOAD BEARING RELEASE HANDLE - A seat assembly that is releasably secured to a floor, wherein the seat assembly is released from the floor by simply lifting the handle is provided. The seat assembly includes a latch assembly which releasably engages a platform such as a vehicle floor. The handle is configured to bear the load of the seat, and is also operable to actuate the latch so as to release the seat from the floor by simply lifting the seat by the handle. Thus only one motion is used to remove the seat from the floor. Further the operation of releasing the seat from the floor is inherent as it requires the user to merely lift the seat by the handle. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100320734 | VENT ASSEMBLY - The present invention discloses a retention apparatus for a fin subassembly used in connection with a vent assembly of a vehicle including a headliner assembly mounted to an interior vehicle body structure. A curtain side airbag is disposed between the headliner assembly and the vehicle body structure. The headliner is configured to be displaced by the curtain side airbag upon airbag deployment so as to provide a safety feature for passengers of the vehicle. The vent assembly includes a trim cover, a retainer ring and a fin subassembly. The trim cover is mounted to a vehicle headliner and the trim cover having a predetermined inside diameter. The fin subassembly having a plurality of fins configured to direct airflow from an air duct and also having an extended actuator operatively connected to the fins to permit simultaneous and identical movement of the fins. The fin subassembly is mounted in the retainer ring and the retainer ring is rotatably mounted in the trim cover to allow the retainer ring and fin subassembly to freely rotate. The extended actuator having a length greater than that of the predetermined inside diameter of the trim cover to prevent the fin subassembly from detaching from the vent assembly as a whole upon curtain side airbag deployment. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100320705 | DAMPER ASSEMBLIES AND VEHICLES INCORPORATING THE SAME - A damper assembly includes damper body, a piston assembly and a pulser. The damper body is operable to maintain a fluid. The piston assembly may include a piston rod and a piston plunger. The piston plunger and at least a portion of piston rod is slidably positioned within the damper body. The pulser is operable to generate hydraulic waves within the fluid toward the piston assembly to alter the damping force of the damper assembly. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100318360 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EXTRACTING MESSAGES - The present invention is a method and system for extracting messages from a person using the body features presented by a user. The present invention captures a set of images and extracts a first set of body features, along with a set of contexts, and a set of meanings. From the first set of body features, the set of contexts, and the set of meanings, the present invention generates a set of words corresponding to the message that the person is attempting to convey. The present invention can also use the body features of the person in addition to the voice of the person to further improve the accuracy of extracting the person's message. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100317787 | Methods and Compositions for Pigmented Self-Stratifying Coatings - A coating composition may include a polyol, a silsesquioxane, a polyurethane dendrimer, a crosslinker, and a pigment in contact with a dispersing agent. A process for preparing a coating composition is further disclosed including the step of contacting a polyol, a silsesquioxane, a polyurethane dendrimer, and a crosslinker to form a coating mixture dispersed within a solvent. The process further includes adding a pigment in contact with a dispersing agent to the coating mixture, and forming a self-stratifying coating having at least one layer, wherein the pigment resides substantially within one of the at least one layer. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100315216 | Vehicle Warning Systems and Methods - A collision detection unit mounts to a host vehicle. The collision detection unit includes a housing and a stop lamp associated with the housing and visible from outside the housing. A warning lamp is associated with the housing and is visible from outside the housing. A sensor is associated with the housing and is configured to detect an object. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314910 | PILLAR FOR MOTOR VEHICLE AND TOOL FOR MAKING THE SAME - A stamping tool for forming a stamped metal panel used as part of a pillar of a motor vehicle is provided. The stamped metal panel is arcuate and has a u-shaped cross-section, the arcuate panel including a transitional portion so as to avoid a die lock condition. The tool includes an upper die, and a lower die, and transitional portion surfaces. The transitional portion surfaces tapers as the transitional portion surface extends from the ends of respective upper and lower dies to a first point. The transitional portion is substantially tangential with at least the first wall surfaces of the dies to facilitate removal of the panel from between upper and lower dies of a stamping tool. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314903 | Vehicles With Rear Hatch Assemblies - A rear hatch assembly of a vehicle includes a hatch frame pivotally connected to a vehicle body at a first pivot axis such that the hatch frame is capable of movement relative to the vehicle body about the first pivot axis. A tailgate is pivotally connected to the hatch frame at a second pivot axis such that the tailgate is capable of movement relative to the hatch frame about the second pivot axis. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314842 | Active Magneto-Rheological Spring Assemblies and Vehicle Suspension Systems Incorporating the Same - A Magneto-Rheological Elastomer (MRE) spring system includes a spring, an MRE unit in cooperation with the spring, and an electromagnet. The electromagnet may be configured to produce an adjustable magnetic field, wherein when the electromagnet produces a magnetic field, the MRE unit stiffens such that the MRE spring system stiffens. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314518 | Fender Structure Assemblies for Vehicles - An attachment bracket for mounting a fender of a vehicle to a side structural member includes a top portion that connects to the fender. A first vertical leg connects to the side structural member. The first vertical leg extends downwardly from an edge of the top portion. A second vertical leg connects to the side structural member. The second vertical leg extends downwardly from an opposite edge of the top portion. The first vertical leg includes a bend separating the first vertical leg into an upper portion and a lower portion. The first vertical leg has a central opening at the bend that is spaced vertically from the top portion and a bottom end of the first vertical leg. | 12-16-2010 |
