CHRYSLER GROUP LLC Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150231944 | PNEUMATIC SPRING SYSTEM INCORPORATING OVERLOAD DETECTION - A computer-implemented method for monitoring a load on a rear axle and/or a front axle of a chassis, wherein a level control system raises the chassis to a predetermined level by a raising operation after a loading operation and/or after an alteration in a level of the chassis, wherein the method includes the following steps: determination of the load on the rear axle and/or the front axle of the chassis, wherein determination is performed continuously after initiation of the raising operation; comparison of the load determined with a predefined limiting value; and adaptation of the raising operation if the limiting value is exceeded or undershot. | 08-20-2015 |
20140081560 | ENGINE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY - A system and method for controlling a vehicle to implement an engine torque management strategy. The engine torque management strategy implements a sophisticated engine knock control method that alleviates/mitigates the cause of the knock while also optimizing vehicle performance and engine efficiency without compromising engine hardware protection. Whenever suitable, the system and method attempt to reduce the amount of air trapped in a knocking cylinder to reduce its effective compression ratio and to eliminate the knock while keeping the same optimal spark timing for combustion efficiency. | 03-20-2014 |
20140078801 | ADVANCED DC VOLTAGE ADJUSTMENT USING SWITCHED CAPACITORS - A voltage booster system for use, for example, in an electric vehicle places a switched capacitor voltage converter between a high voltage battery and the vehicle's electrical load, typically a traction power inverter for driving the vehicle's electric motor. The battery input to the converter is pulsed to couple a charging voltage to the converter while the converter is disconnected from the load. The converter is then coupled to the load during the period that the pulse input is disconnected. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077536 | FOLD-FLAT SEAT ASSEMBLY - A seat assembly may include a seat bottom and a seatback. The seat bottom may include a seating surface and a first cargo surface. The seat bottom may be movable between a first position in which the seating surface may face upward and a second position in which the first cargo surface may face upward and the seating surface may face downward. The seatback may include a backrest surface and a second cargo surface. The seatback may be movable relative to the seat bottom between a third position in which the backrest surface may face a front end of the seat assembly and a fourth position in which the second cargo surface may face upward and is substantially level with the first cargo surface when the seat bottom is in the first position. | 03-20-2014 |
20140076705 | LOW OPERATING TEMPERATURE HIGH VOLTAGE CONTACTOR - An electrical contactor for use in a high voltage bus utilizes two capacitor plates and a dielectric element movable in a gap between the plates under a charging voltage applied to the plates. The dielectric element is biased to a contactor off, or open, position by a biasing element, such as a spring. Once activated, the contactor remains closed under the influence of the charging voltage across the capacitor plates, yet does not draw a current during this state. The contactor may be released by a controllable discharge circuit placed across the capacitor plates. | 03-20-2014 |
20140074329 | VEHICLE ELECTRIC RANGE ESTIMATION - A method and system of dynamically displaying a plurality of electric drive range estimations for a vehicle having an electric motor and an energy storage system configured to provide electric power to the electric motor. The display providing information to a driver such that an electric drive range of the vehicle can be optimized. | 03-13-2014 |
20140060165 | BI-FUEL INJECTOR RELAY DIAGNOSTIC - An injector relay diagnostic system is provided. The system comprises a first fuel injector, a first electrical relay disposed between an electrical potential and the first fuel injector, wherein the first electrical relay is configured to connect the first fuel injector to the electrical potential upon receipt of a first control signal, and a control module configured to transmit the first control signal to the first electrical relay, receive an output from the first fuel injector, and determine a state of the first electrical relay by comparing the output from the first fuel injector to a predetermined parameter. | 03-06-2014 |
20140059932 | COLLAPSIBLE FUEL DOOR HOUSING FOR A VEHICLE - A collapsible fuel-door housing is provided and may include a first housing and a second housing slidably attached to the first housing and moveable from a first state overlapping the first housing to a second state adjacent to the first housing. The fuel-door housing may also include a locking mechanism moveable between an unlocked state permitting movement of the second housing into the second state and a locked state restricting relative movement between the first housing and the second housing to maintain the second housing in the second state. | 03-06-2014 |
20140053680 | PENDULUM ABSORBER SNUBBER - An apparatus for damping vibrations in an internal combustion engine. The apparatus includes a pendulum-type torsional absorber that uses a hydraulic snubber mechanism to limit travel of the pendulum without causing noise or damage to the absorber, crankshaft or other engine components. | 02-27-2014 |
20140053541 | VEHICLE ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - Methods and systems for using compressed gas in a vehicle. The methods include generating mechanical energy by expanding stored compressed gas through a turbine-compressor and distributing the mechanical energy to the engine, motor-generator, or a wheel. The compressed gas vehicle system includes a flask connected to a turbine-compressor, which may be interconnected to the engine and the motor-generator. The system may also include an electric wheel-motor connected electrically to the motor-generator. | 02-27-2014 |
20140051543 | DOUBLE SWAP KICKDOWN SHIFT CONTROL - A method of performing a double swap kickdown shift in a transmission having a main box and a compounder. The compounder is shifted during the hold speed phase of the downshift. The target ratio for the downshift is overshot by an overshoot RPM. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051537 | SINGLE-INPUT AND SINGLE-OUTPUT HYBRID SYSTEM - A hybrid assembly for a vehicle is provided having a single input and a single output. The hybrid assembly is compactly packaged and achieves a wide range of gear ratios. The hybrid assembly may be used in a vehicle power train with or without an additional transmission. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051536 | SINGLE-INPUT AND SINGLE-OUTPUT HYBRID SYSTEM - A hybrid assembly having a single input and a single output is provided. The hybrid assembly may be operated in electronically variable, fixed gear, direct gear, and locked modes. | 02-20-2014 |
20140049026 | KNEE AIRBAG HAVING INCREASED PACKAGE WIDTH - A knee airbag assembly is operable to restrain at least one leg of an occupant of a vehicle. The assembly includes an inflator, a housing, and an airbag that moves between a stowed state and a deployed state. The inflator is operable to selectively inflate the airbag to move the airbag from the stowed state to the deployed state. The airbag is housed within the housing in the stowed state, and the airbag extends from the housing in the deployed state. The airbag defines a package width when in the stowed state, and the airbag defines a deployed width when in the deployed state. A ratio of the package width to the deployed width is between approximately 0.8 and 1.0. | 02-20-2014 |
20140039735 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR BATTERY CHARGING AND THERMAL MANGEMENT CONTROL IN ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES - A method and a control system for charging a battery in a plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle, thermally conditioning the battery, and/or thermally conditioning the passenger compartment of the plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle. | 02-06-2014 |
20140033614 | WEATHERSTRIP ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a weatherstrip assembly may include forming an elongated reinforcement member, forming an elongated seal member, and trimming ends of the seal member and the reinforcement member. The reinforcement member and the seal member may be formed from first and second materials, respectively. The seal member may be formed around the reinforcement member such that the reinforcement member is at least partially embedded in the seal member. The seal member may include a plurality of sealing lips. The ends of the seal member and the reinforcement member may be trimmed using a laser cutter that is movable in multiple axes. | 02-06-2014 |
20140032037 | METHOD OF DIAGNOSING A STARTER RELAY FAILURE USING SYNCHRONIZED STATE MACHINE - A method and electrical system for detecting and compensating for a failure in a starter circuit that comprises first and second relays in a circuit path to a starter motor of a vehicle. The method and system determine if at least one of the first or second relays is in a closed position when it should be in an open position and disables a vehicle starter operation if it is determined that at least one of the first or second relays is in the closed position when it should be in the open position. The vehicle starter operation could be a stop-start operation of the engine. | 01-30-2014 |
20140028006 | VARIABLE VOLUME AIRBAG - In at least one implementation, a variable volume airbag includes an inflatable cushion and a tether coupled to the cushion. The inflatable cushion defines an inner volume in which a gas is received to inflate the cushion longitudinally and laterally within a passenger compartment of a vehicle, and has laterally opposed side surfaces defining part of the inner volume of the cushion. The tether is coupled to each of the side surfaces of the cushion and has a first state wherein the tether limits lateral separation of the side surfaces and a second state wherein increased separation of the side surfaces is permitted as compared to the first state. | 01-30-2014 |
20140023477 | COMBINATION PUMP ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - A combination pump assembly for circulation of a coolant and for providing suction includes a shaft and a coolant pump portion with a coolant pump housing that defines at least a portion of a coolant flow path. The coolant pump portion also includes a coolant pump member that is rotatably disposed within the coolant pump housing. The coolant pump member is operably coupled to the shaft to be driven by the shaft to pump the coolant through the coolant flow path. Furthermore, the pump assembly includes a vacuum pump portion with a vacuum pump housing that defines at least a portion of a suction path. The vacuum pump portion also includes a vacuum pump member that is rotatably disposed within the vacuum pump housing. The vacuum pump member is operably coupled to the shaft to be driven by the shaft to provide suction through the suction path. | 01-23-2014 |
20140021232 | REMOVABLE STORAGE ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A cargo management system can include a receptacle and a removable storage device. The receptacle can be formed relative to an exterior panel of the vehicle and can have a rear wall spaced apart from an outer surface of the exterior panel. The outer surface can have a first contour. The removable storage device can be removably received in the receptacle and selectively secured to the vehicle. The storage device can include an upper portion, a lower portion and a latch mechanism. The upper portion can be pivotable relative to the lower portion to provide access to an interior of the storage device. The latch mechanism can selectively secure the storage device to the vehicle when in a stored position in the receptacle. An outer surface of the upper portion and the lower portion can include a second contour, where the second contour can substantially match the first contour. | 01-23-2014 |
20130342140 | METHOD OF PROCESSING SENSOR SIGNALS FOR DETERMINING MOTION OF A MOTOR SHAFT - Methods and systems of processing sensor signals to determine motion of a motor shaft are disclosed. This disclosure relates to the processing of sequences of pulses from a sensor for computing the motion of an electric motor output shaft. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to the processing of two sequences of pulses from sensor outputs, which may be separated by only a few electrical degrees, to compute the motion of an electrical motor output shaft while using a limited bandwidth controller. Motor shaft direction, displacement, speed, phase, and phase offset may be determined from processing the sensor signals. | 12-26-2013 |
20130341952 | STOWABLE SEATING ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A seat assembly can include a seat bottom, a pair of front and rear legs and an articulation arrangement. The front legs can have an upper and a lower end, where each upper end can be pivotably coupled to the seat bottom. The articulation arrangement can include a pair of rotating members, a pair of guide channels, a pair of first and second guide members, and an assist arrangement. The rotating members can be rotatably coupled to the lower ends of the front legs, and the pair of guide channels can have the first guide members positioned therein. The second guide members can be coupled to the lower ends of the front legs and positioned in the guide channels. The assist arrangement can include a biasing member coupled to the vehicle and the front legs. The seat assembly can be movable from a deployed position to a stowed position. | 12-26-2013 |
20130340723 | FUEL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A fuel system having a fuel module for use within a fuel tank of a vehicle is disclosed herein. The fuel module includes a fuel reservoir having an inlet for receiving fuel from the fuel tank, a pump for pumping fuel from the reservoir through a fuel supply line and a temperature sensitive valve having a first port for receiving fuel from a return line, a second port for outputting the received fuel into the fuel reservoir, and a third port for outputting the received fuel into the fuel tank and external to the fuel reservoir. | 12-26-2013 |
20130338887 | CONTROL STRATEGIES FOR A MULTI-MODE DRIVE SYSTEM - A method of operating a multi-mode drive system that precisely orchestrates a shift between gear ratios in a power take off unit and a rear drive module. The method first shifts between gear ratios in the power take off unit and then, depending upon the success or failure of the shift of the power take off unit, shifts between gear ratios in the rear drive module. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338870 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING DIAGNOSTICS OF AN ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER SYSTEM - A system and method for diagnosing a mechanical failure in an active grille shutter (AGS) system of a vehicle. The method includes receiving at least one mechanical fault condition signal, each of the at least one mechanical fault condition signals being indicative of whether a particular mechanical fault condition was detected in the AGS system. The method also includes receiving a temperature signal indicating a temperature at a location proximate to a grille shutter of the AGS and determining whether to perform an extended diagnostic based on the at least one mechanical fault condition signal and the temperature signal. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338864 | HYBRID VEHICLE CONTROL - A method and apparatus for heating a catalytic converter's catalyst to an efficient operating temperature in a hybrid electric vehicle when the vehicle is in a charge limited mode such as e.g., the charge depleting mode or when the vehicle's high voltage battery is otherwise charge limited. The method and apparatus determine whether a high voltage battery of the vehicle is incapable of accepting a first amount of charge associated with a first procedure to warm-up the catalyst. If it is determined that the high voltage battery is incapable of accepting the first amount of charge, a second procedure with an acceptable amount of charge is performed to warm-up the catalyst. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338863 | HYBRID VEHICLE CONTROL - A method and powertrain apparatus for controlling a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain to maintain a catalyst within a catalytic converter at an efficient operating temperature while also maximizing the use of electric vehicle operating mode. The method and apparatus determine, during an electric vehicle operating mode, whether a catalyst efficiency is below a predetermined threshold and, if it is determined that the catalyst efficiency is below the predetermined threshold, suspend the electric vehicle operating mode and turn on the vehicle's engine to bring the catalyst efficiency to or above the predetermined threshold. | 12-19-2013 |
20130331216 | TWO MOTOR ELECTRIC DRIVE HYBRID TRANSMISSION - A two motor electric drive hybrid transmission for a vehicle. The two motor electric drive hybrid transmission allows both electric motors to provide propulsive force during engine on and engine off operations when desired. The two motor electric drive hybrid transmission also provides improved and flexible operating configurations. | 12-12-2013 |
20130319068 | STAMPING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - A stamping apparatus includes a lower die defining a cavity, with a land portion surrounding the cavity. A movable upper die includes a drawing punch that corresponds to the cavity. A binder movable towards the land portion of the lower die engages an edge portion of the blank, wherein the land portion of the lower die and the movable binder each include a plurality of beads that crimp the edge portion of the blank when the movable binder engages the edge portion of the blank. The plurality of beads are oriented orthogonal to a terminal edge of the edge portion. By orienting the plurality of beads in this manner, the crimped edge portion of the blank is allowed to move inboard towards the cavity when the blank is engaged by the drawing punch before being constrained by a throat portion defined by the binder and the lower die. | 12-05-2013 |
20130306042 | EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION SYSTEM AND CONTROL STRATEGY - A method for controlling a vehicle's exhaust gas recirculation system. The method controls the exhaust gas recirculation system in a manner that is suitable for a pedal tip-out transition while also being optimized for normal operating situations. | 11-21-2013 |
20130306022 | HIGH EFFICIENCY OIL CIRCUIT - In at least one implementation, an engine oil circuit for a vehicle includes first and second oil circuits, and first and second oil pumps. The first oil circuit is communicated with at least one first engine component and the first oil pump is communicated with the first oil circuit to supply fluid flow in the first oil circuit at a first flow rate and a first pressure. The second oil circuit is communicated with at least one second engine component and may be segregated from the first oil circuit. The second oil pump is communicated with the second oil circuit to supply fluid flow in the second oil circuit at a second flow rate and a second pressure. At least one of the second flow rate or the second pressure is different than the first flow rate or the first pressure. | 11-21-2013 |
20130305863 | METHOD OF OPERATING A PARK LOCK MECHANISM - A method of operating a park lock mechanism in a vehicle includes determining a force acting on a vehicle park lock mechanism when the vehicle is in park, and providing an offsetting force to counteract the force on the park lock mechanism before the vehicle is shifted out of park. In doing so, harshness and noise that may be associated with shifting a vehicle out of park, especially when the vehicle is parked on an incline, can be reduced or eliminated. | 11-21-2013 |
20130305832 | HIGH PRESSURE VISUAL INDICATOR - A fluid-pressure indicator is provided and may include a housing having a first region and a second region. A pressure-responsive member may be disposed in the first region and may be movable between an expanded state and a compressed state. An indicator disk may be viewable through the pressure-responsive member when the pressure-responsive member is in the compressed state and may be obscured from view through the pressure-responsive member when the pressure-responsive member is in the expanded state. A diaphragm may be movable from a relaxed state to a deflected state in response to pressure within the second region exceeding a threshold pressure and may prevent fluid communication between the first region and the second region. The diaphragm may additionally cause the pressure-responsive member to move from the expanded state to the compressed state when the pressure exceeds the threshold pressure. | 11-21-2013 |
20130304352 | ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING MALFUNCTION CONDITIONS IN MULTIAIR ENGINE HYDRAULIC VALVE TRAIN - An on-board diagnostic system for detecting malfunction conditions in a hydraulic valve train of a MultiAirâ„¢ engine. The system comprises a plurality of pressure sensors for generating pressure signals located in a hydraulic circuit of the hydraulic valve train; and an engine control module for performing a waveform analysis of the pressure signals to detect malfunction conditions in the hydraulic valve train. The engine control module performs a frequency and/or time delay waveform analysis. | 11-14-2013 |
20130282230 | TURBO-CHARGED ENGINE PURGE FLOW MONITOR DIAGNOSTIC - A method for testing the evaporative emission system of a vehicle. The method provides for testing the evaporative emission system of a vehicle having a forced induction engine. The method includes controlling a vacuum bypass valve and a purge flow control valve to create the necessary conditions to perform the testing of the evaporative emission system. | 10-24-2013 |
20130282182 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SCHEDULING WELD EVENTS - A method and system for optimizing a weld schedule is disclosed. The weld schedule is used to control a plurality of welding apparatuses, and includes a plurality of weld sequences for control the plurality of welding apparatuses. The weld sequences each define one or more weld events. Each of the weld events defines a weld operation and a duration of the weld operation. The weld schedule is analyzed to determine if any time points in the weld schedule have two or more weld events scheduled where the aggregate current demand exceeds a maximum current threshold. If such a conflict in the weld schedule is identified, the weld schedule is modified by rescheduling a lower priority weld event. The method executes iteratively until all conflicts in the welding schedule are resolved. | 10-24-2013 |
20130268177 | INDIVIDUAL CYLINDER FUEL AIR RATIO ESTIMATION FOR ENGINE CONTROL AND ON-BOARD DIAGNOSIS - A method of estimating the individual fuel air ratio richness of an individual cylinder in an engine by utilizing a single oxygen sensor at the confluence of a plurality of exhaust runners. The method provides for the use of a wide range or switching oxygen sensor at the confluence of a plurality of exhaust runners. | 10-10-2013 |
20130228409 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING CLUTCH ASSEMBLY VENT TIME FOR TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL - A method and transmission control unit configured to improve shift event performance in a vehicle with an automatic transmission by determining a vent time for release of a clutch assembly in a transmission of a vehicle. The vehicle must be stopped and a gear selector in the vehicle must be set to a drive condition. If these conditions are met, the clutch assembly is vented. The vent time from when venting begins to when a turbine (or input shift) speed of the transmission rises is tracked. Once the turbine speed of the transmission rises, the clutch assembly is reapplied. The clutch assembly vent time is set based on the tracked vent time. | 09-05-2013 |
20130226422 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A CLUTCH IN FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES - A system and method for detecting that a four-wheel drive manual transmission vehicle is being operated in a manner that could cause a clutch over-speed problem. Upon detecting that the vehicle is being operated in the manner that could cause the clutch over-speed problem, the system and method activate a braking countermeasure to remove the potential problem. In addition, a fault code may be stored for subsequent diagnostic measures and/or a fault indicator may be used to alert the driver of the problem. | 08-29-2013 |
20130220282 | TURBOCHARGED ENGINE CANISTER SYSTEM AND DIAGNOSTIC METHOD - An evaporative emission control system for a turbocharged engine. The system includes a fuel vapor canister in fluid communication with an intake manifold of the engine, a purge valve positioned between the intake manifold and the canister, a bypass valve positioned between the purge valve and the canister and connected to the atmosphere, and an evaporative system integrity monitor operable to seal the canister from the atmosphere when the engine is off. In operation, the monitor is closed so as to seal the canister from the atmosphere, the purge valve is closed so as to isolate the intake manifold from the canister, and the bypass valve is opened so as to connect the canister to the atmosphere. Proper operation of the monitor is determined if the monitor toggles from closed to open when a vacuum in the fuel vapor canister reaches a predetermined level. | 08-29-2013 |
20130218408 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING VEHICLE FUEL ECONOMY WITH ENERGY STORAGE EFFICIENCY MODEL - A method is described for improving fuel economy in a vehicle having an engine, a generator driven by the engine, and an energy storage unit by using an energy storage efficiency model. The method includes evaluating a current efficiency state of the engine, evaluating a current efficiency state of the generator, evaluating a current efficiency state of the energy storage unit, and, controlling the generator to provide an optimized voltage output, based on the results of the evaluations and the energy storage efficiency model. A voltage regulator implementing this method is also described. | 08-22-2013 |
20130218406 | ELECTRIC-DRIVE TRACTABILITY INDICATOR INTEGRATED IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE TACHOMETER - An indicator, system and method of indicating electric drive usability in a hybrid electric vehicle. A tachometer is used that includes a display having an all-electric drive portion and a hybrid drive portion. The all-electric drive portion and the hybrid drive portion share a first boundary which indicates a minimum electric drive usability and a beginning of hybrid drive operation of the vehicle. The indicated level of electric drive usability is derived from at least one of a percent battery discharge, a percent maximum torque provided by the electric drive, and a percent electric drive to hybrid drive operating cost for the hybrid electric vehicle. | 08-22-2013 |
20130218404 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING UNINTENDED STIMULUS AT A VEHICLE PEDAL - A system and method for monitoring a vehicle pedal are disclosed. According to the present disclosure, the method comprises determining whether a stimulus has been detected at the vehicle pedal. When the stimulus has been detected, the method comprises receiving sensor data from a sensor system, the sensor data being indicative of a shape of the stimulus, and determining whether the shape of the stimulus corresponds to an unintended object based on the sensor data. When the shape of the stimulus corresponds to an unintended stimulus, the method comprises performing an unintended stimulus operation. | 08-22-2013 |
20130214900 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO ENABLE PASSIVE ENTRY - A passive entry system is disclosed. The system comprises an unlocking module that performs a key operation in a keyless environment and a plurality of fobs configured to trigger the unlocking module to perform the key operation. each fob has a unique value associated thereto. The unlocking module determines a range of identification values, generates an authentication request packet based on the range, of identification values, and broadcasts the request packet. Each fob receives the request packet; and determines whether the unique identification value of the corresponding fob falls within the range of identification values. The fob also generates a response packet if the unique identification value falls within the range of identification values and transmits the response packet to the unlocking module. The unlocking module receives the response packets from the fobs, and performs the key operation based on one of the received response packets. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213343 | EXHAUST FLANGE WITH PRESSURE CLAMP MOUNTING RAIL - A system for mounting a duct to a port mounting in an engine where the port mounting has an opening and a mounting surface that surrounds the opening. The system includes a flange with a tongue portion that mates with a shoulder of a mounting rail that does not extend over the mounting surface of the port mounting, which allows for easy installation in locations with limited space. | 08-22-2013 |
20130211637 | MAIN PUMP TO AUXILIARY PUMP HAND-OFF STRATEGY IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A method and system of reducing an occurrence of hydraulic pressurization loss during the transition from gas-powered engine operation to electric motor operation in a hybrid electric vehicle. The method includes maintaining operation of the gas-powered engine while initiating an auxiliary pump with its associated electric motor. A master timer is initiated. Once the auxiliary pump exceeds a minimum speed threshold, a delay time period is determined during which operation of the auxiliary pump is tested. If the auxiliary pump does not stall during the delay time period and the master timer has not yet expired, the gas-powered engine is allowed to shut-off. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210567 | HYBRID DUAL CONFIGURATION TRANSMISSION - A hybrid dual configuration transmission for a vehicle having an electric motor, planetary gear set and a plurality of gear meshes is disclosed herein. The hybrid dual configuration transmission provides for a plurality of electrically variable transmission operating modes and a plurality of fixed gear operating modes. The hybrid dual configuration transmission may be operated utilizing exclusively the electric motor, exclusively an engine, or any combination of the electric motor and engine. | 08-15-2013 |
20130209191 | RETAINER DEVICE FOR VEHICLE CARGO SPACE - A retainer device retains an object within a cargo area of a vehicle. The cargo area is defined at least partially by a cargo area floor, a rear panel that extends upright from the cargo area floor, and a plurality of side panels that extend upright from the cargo area floor and that are disposed at respective sides of the rear panel. The retainer device includes a retaining member operable for retaining the object thereto. The retainer device also includes a coupling member that moveably couples the retaining member to an interior surface of the rear panel. The retaining member is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. | 08-15-2013 |
20130207411 | STOWABLE VEHICLE SEAT - A stowable seat can include a seat back having an upper end, an opposite lower end and a seating side, a seat bottom having a forward end, a rearward end and a seating side, and a linkage arrangement. The linkage arrangement can include a first member pivotably coupled to the seat bottom and a vehicle support structure, a second member pivotably coupled to the seat bottom and the support structure, a third member fixed to the seat back and pivotably coupled to the support structure, and a fourth member pivotably coupled to the second member and the third member. The linkage arrangement can facilitate suspending the seat bottom in a seating position from the support structure in spaced relation to the floor; rotating the seat bottom to a stadium position; and rotating the seat back and articulating the seat bottom to a stowed position. | 08-15-2013 |
20130205668 | SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM - A system may include a door track, a guide mechanism, and a sequencing mechanism. The door track is mounted to a door. The guide mechanism connects the door to a vehicle body. The guide mechanism may include a first member connected to the door track and a second member connected to the first member for rotation relative to the door track. The first member is movable relative to the door track. The second member may engage a body track in the vehicle body and may be movable relative thereto between a first and second ends of the body track. The sequencing mechanism may include a third member locking the first member relative to the door track when the door is between the intermediate and closed positions and a fourth member locking the second member relative to the body track when the door is between the intermediate and fully open positions. | 08-15-2013 |
20130205578 | GLASS INSTALLATION TOOL WITH MAGNET FOR REMOVABLE ATTACHMENT TO FRAME - An installation system for attaching a transparent pane to a frame includes at least one support tool having a base member and a support member. The support member is operably coupled to the base member, and the support member is operable to support the pane in a fixed position relative to the frame. The support tool also includes a magnet that is fixed to at least one of the base member and the support member for magnetically and removably attaching the at least one support tool to the frame. A method of attaching the pane to the frame is also disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
20130189555 | BATTERY TRAY RETAINING SYSTEM - A battery tray can include a deck, first and second longitudinal and side walls and a clamping member. The walls can extend from the deck and cooperate with each other to form a container area for receiving one of a first and a second battery, where the first battery has a longer length than the second battery. The second longitudinal and side walls can include respective first and second battery hold down members each having a rib for engaging one of the first and second batteries. The first longitudinal and side walls can include respective first and second ramped members for urging at least the first battery into engagement with the battery hold down members. The first clamping member can be removably coupled to the battery tray relative to one of the first longitudinal or side walls and can engage the first or second battery positioned on the deck. | 07-25-2013 |
20130187447 | CONTROL AND DIAGNOSTICS OF MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL GENERATING MACHINES USING AN EXTERNAL VOLTAGE REGULATOR - An electrical system for an automotive vehicle has a plurality of electrical generating machines having field windings energized by pulse width modulated drive signals generated by an external electronic voltage regulator. The pulse width modulated drive signals have a duty cycle determined by the electronic voltage regulator. A controller selects one of electrical generating machines to evaluate for failure and evaluates that electrical generating machine for failure by causing the PWM drive signal for the field windings of that electrical generating machine to be disabled. The controller then determines that this electrical generating machine has failed if the duty cycle for the PWM drive signals has then not been increased by the electronic voltage regulator by a pre-determined amount. The electrical generating machines are either generators or alternators. In an aspect, the PWM drive signals for the plurality of electrical generating machines are out of phase with each other. | 07-25-2013 |
20130186002 | DOOR ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE - A door assembly for a vehicle is provided and may include a door selectively movable relative to the vehicle between an open state and a closed state. A first track may slidably support the door relative to the vehicle between the open state and the closed state and a second track may be spaced apart from the first track, may slidably support the door relative to the vehicle between the open state and the closed state, and may include a first track portion and a second track portion. The first track portion may be operable to slide relative to the second track portion when the door is moved a predetermined distance relative to the vehicle. | 07-25-2013 |
20130185887 | REAR WINDOW WASHER SYSTEM - A window washer system for a vehicle may include a fluid reservoir and a nozzle. The fluid reservoir may be disposed on an exterior side of a tailgate of the vehicle and may be adapted to store a quantity of window washer fluid. The nozzle may be in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir and may be operable to deposit the window washer fluid onto a rear window of the vehicle. The window washer system may be disposed proximate a spare tire carrier. | 07-25-2013 |
20130181642 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN ELECTRIC MOTOR FOR A VEHICLE - A system and method for calibrating an interior permanent magnet (IPM) motor with an optimized maximum torque per ampere trajectory curve. The system and method use a real-time particle swarm technique that requires less known parameters than standard maximum torque per ampere trajectory techniques. | 07-18-2013 |
20130180496 | STEPPED OIL-COOLER - A lubricant heat exchanger may include a mounting portion and a heat exchanger portion. The mounting portion may be configured to engage a first end of a lubricant filter and may include a fluid passage in fluid communication with the lubricant filter. The heat exchanger portion may extend from the mounting portion and may be configured to at least partially surround a circumferential surface of the lubricant filter. The mounting portion may engage the first end of the lubricant filter and provide fluid communication between the heat exchanger portion and the lubricant filter. The heat exchanger portion may include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet and outlet being fluidly isolated from the lubricant filter. | 07-18-2013 |
20130180177 | REMOVABLE DOOR WITH HINGE DETENT - A hinge assembly may include first and second hinge portions, a pivot pin, and a retaining member. The first hinge portion may be secured to one of a vehicle body and a door, and may include a first aperture and a protrusion. The second hinge portion may be secured to another of the vehicle body and the door, and may include a second aperture and a first detent. The protrusion may engage the first detent when the door is in an open position. The pivot pin may selectively engage the first and second apertures to provide relative rotation between the first and second hinge portions. The retaining member may engage a portion of the pivot pin and may be axially movable relative to one of the first and second apertures. | 07-18-2013 |
20130179042 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CALIBRATING ROLLOVER SETTINGS OF A VEHICLE - A method and system for controlling rollover calibration settings of a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle has a roll axis extending from a front end of the vehicle to a back end of the vehicle. The method comprises monitoring an off-road signal indicating whether the vehicle is operating in an off-road mode or a default mode, monitoring a speed signal indicative of the speed of the vehicle, and selecting the rollover calibration settings of the vehicle based on the off-road signal and the speed signal. | 07-11-2013 |
20130179013 | MAIN PUMP TO AUXILIARY PUMP HAND-OFF STRATEGY FOR MAINTAINING HYDRAULIC PRESSURE IN HYBRID TRANSMISSION - A method and system of providing hydraulic pressure during a transition from gas-powered engine operation to electric motor operation in a hybrid electric vehicle. During the transition, main pressure arising from operation of a gas-powered engine with a main pump is matched with auxiliary pressure arising from operation of a battery-powered electric motor with an auxiliary pump. After matching the main and auxiliary pressures, the auxiliary pressure is boosted to an operational pressure in response to a triggering event. | 07-11-2013 |
20130175962 | WIPER PARK SWITCH INPUT SIGNAL NOISE REJECTION CIRCUIT - A wiper system is provided and may include a wiper that operates between a parked state and a use state, a motor associated with the wiper that selectively moves the wiper between the parked state and the use state, and a switch that generates a signal identifying whether the wiper is in the parked state or the use state. The wiper system may also include a controller in communication with the switch. The controller may include a second-order filter and a comparator, whereby the controller passes the signal through the second-order filter and the comparator to differentiate between the parked state and the use state. | 07-11-2013 |
20130155508 | LASER SIGHT CLEANER - A system where a reflector of a laser alignment system is cleaned by a cleaning device that is actuated by an automatic guided vehicle as it passes the reflector. The laser alignment system is used to detect a position of the automatic guided vehicle relative to a location in a manufacturing facility. As the automatic guided vehicle passes the laser alignment system, a projection formed on the automatic guided vehicle will contact an element of a laser cleaning system to actuate the cleaning device over the reflector to clean it. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154299 | STOWABLE SEAT ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A stowable seat arrangement can include a seat having a seat back coupled to a seat bottom. A pair of front and rear legs can be pivotably coupled to the seat bottom. A floor panel can be fixed to the seat back. A stowage recess cover can be pivotably coupled to the vehicle and the front legs. The seat can be configured to selectively articulate from a deployed position to a stowed position where the seat can be received in a vehicle stowage recess. Pivotably raising the cover can automatically begin articulation of the seat from the deployed position to the stowed position. The floor panel can be in spaced relation to the floor when the seat is in the deployed position and can automatically move to a position in engagement with the floor to provide a flat load floor configuration when the seat is in the stowed position. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154281 | BATTERY SAVING IDLE BUMP WORK MODE - An electronic control unit for increasing electrical output from an alternator connected to a variable displacement engine having a plurality of selectively controllable cylinders, the electronic control unit is adapted to determine whether the variable displacement engine is idling, evaluate a present electrical system load; and when the present electrical system load exceeds a present electrical output from the alternator, deactivate at least one of the plurality of cylinders and increase an idle speed of the variable displacement engine. A corresponding method is also disclosed. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154226 | VEHICLE SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A suspension system for supporting a vehicle body includes an axle and a mounting member that is coupled by a first coupling member to the axle. The mounting member is also coupled by a second coupling member to the axle. At least one of the first and second coupling members includes a mount damper that dampens loads transferred between the mounting member and the axle. The suspension system also includes a track bar that is coupled by a third coupling member to the vehicle body and that is coupled by a fourth coupling member to the mounting member. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153725 | GLASS RUN INSTALLATION TOOL - A glass run installation tool for attaching a glass run to a door frame includes at least one lower abutment member and an upper abutment member. The tool also includes a base with a first arm and a second arm. The lower abutment member is coupled to the first arm, and the upper abutment member is coupled to the second arm. The second arm is moveable relative to the first arm between a clamped position and an unclamped position. The upper abutment member and the lower abutment member clamp the glass run and the door frame together to thereby attach the glass run to the door frame when the second arm is in the clamped position. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153717 | ARMREST ASSEMBLY - An armrest assembly may include a base member, an armrest member, and a brake mechanism. The armrest member may be linearly movable relative to the base member between a first position and a second position. The brake mechanism may include first and second brake members. The first brake member may be fixed relative to the base member. The second brake member may be movable with the armrest member relative to the base member and may be movable relative to the first brake member between an engaged position restricting relative movement between the armrest member and the base member and a disengaged position allowing relative movement between the armrest member and the base member. The first and second brake members may be engageable with each other at any of an infinite number of positions between the first and second positions. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153447 | ARMREST ASSEMBLY - An armrest assembly may include a base member, an armrest member, a mechanism and a biasing member. The armrest member may be linearly movable relative to the base member between a first position and a second position. The mechanism may be associated with the armrest member and may be movable between an engaged configuration restricting linear movement of the armrest member relative to the base member and a disengaged configuration allowing linear movement of the armrest member relative to the base member. The biasing member may bias the armrest member in a linear direction from the second position toward the first position. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153198 | FLUID SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING FLUID FLOW FOR AN INTERCOOLER - A fluid system for an intercooler has a fill level defining a maximum volume of liquid in the fluid system, a main fluid circuit and a secondary fluid volume. The main fluid circuit includes the intercooler, and one or more passages through which fluid is circulated with operation of the engine, and at least a portion of the main fluid circuit is located above the fill level. The secondary fluid volume has at least a portion located below the fill level that communicates with the main fluid circuit to receive liquid from the main fluid circuit at least when the engine is not operating to drain at least some of the liquid from the portion of the main fluid circuit that is located above the fill level. This reduces the volume of liquid that remains above the fill level when the engine is not operating. | 06-20-2013 |
20130153050 | HIGH RECIRCULATION FUEL VAPOR REDUCTION SYSTEM - An apparatus for recirculating fuel vapors in a vehicle. The apparatus includes a filler head connected to a fuel vapor conduit and a tubular aspirator located within the filler head. The aspirator has at least one orifice in its side wall so that when fuel flows through the aspirator when the vehicle is refueled, a low pressure area that draws fuel vapors through the orifice and into the fuel flow within the aspirator is created. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152907 | ELECTRONIC INDUCTION SYSTEM TUNING - Electronic induction system tuning featuring electronic pressure charging for an intake tract of an internal combustion engine is disclosed herein. The electronic pressure charging system includes a pressure sensor, a signal generator, and a wave generator. The signal generator causes the wave generator to create a pressure wave in response to monitored parameters and a pressure wave detected by the pressure sensor. The generated pressure wave may be added to, cancel, or otherwise modify the detected pressure wave to increase, decrease, or otherwise manipulate the pressure within a combustion chamber of the engine. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152882 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CONTROL AUTOMOTIVE POWERTRAIN COMPONENT TEMPERATURE - A thermal management unit for a vehicle powertrain component. The thermal management unit is designed to maintain the operating temperature of the vehicle component within a relatively small, ideal temperature range. The thermal management unit includes a three-way valve and temperature sensor that uses the temperature of a lubricant used by the component itself to configure the valve such that lubricant having the desired temperature is passed to the component. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152796 | FLUID AERATION-REDUCTION SYSTEM - A separator may include a body, an inlet portion, and an outlet conduit. The body may include a conical interior surface defining a conical cavity. The cavity may have a first outlet at a tip of the body. The inlet portion may be connected to the body and may include an outer surface, a cylindrical inner surface, and a first inlet passage extending between the outer surface and the inner surface. The inner surface may be defined by the longitudinal axis. The first inlet passage may be positioned relative to the inner surface such that a fluid flow through the first inlet passage is generally tangent to the inner surface. The outlet conduit may extend through the inlet portion and into the cavity. The outlet conduit may include a second inlet passage disposed inside of the cavity and a second outlet disposed outside of the body and the inlet portion. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152721 | STEERING WHEEL DAMPER AND ALTERNATE POWER STORAGE DEVICE - A damper for a steering wheel is provided. The damper may include a housing attached to the steering wheel and an energy-storage medium supported by the housing. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152559 | TAILPIPE COLLAR - An exhaust system for a vehicle may include a tailpipe and a collar. The tailpipe may be adapted to receive exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine and may include an outlet. The collar may include an inner surface, an outer surface, an air-inlet, and an air-outlet. The inner surface may be radially spaced apart from the tailpipe and may at least partially surround the outlet of the tailpipe. The inner and outer surfaces may be shaped to form a profile that causes a first air-flow to accelerate upon flowing between the inner surface and the tailpipe to a first velocity that is faster than a second velocity of a second air-flow. The second air-flow may be flowing adjacent the outer surface and radially outward relative to the outer surface. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152476 | WINDOW REGULATOR GLASS ATTACHMENT GUIDE COVER - A guide cover that guides attachment of a window pane to a mounting bracket includes a body operable to removably attach to a first portion of the mounting bracket to position the body in an attached position relative to the mounting bracket. The body, the mounting bracket, and the window pane are operable to be moved as a unit by the regulator assembly with the body in the attached position. Moreover, the guide cover includes a guide surface included on the body. The guide surface and the second portion of the mounting bracket define an opening into a channel when the body is in the attached position. The guide surface is operable to guide the window pane through the opening into the channel. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152358 | GUIDANCE TOOL FOR ADJUSTING POSITION OF AUTONOMOUS CRUISE CONTROL ASSEMBLY - A guidance tool guides movement of an adjustment tool toward an adjustment member of an autonomous cruise control (ACC) assembly. The ACC assembly is moveably coupled to a vehicle body, and the adjustment member is adjustable with the adjustment tool to change a position of the ACC assembly relative to the vehicle body. The guidance tool includes an attachment member that removably attaches to the ACC assembly. The guidance tool also includes a guide surface that guides the adjustment tool toward the adjustment member when the attachment member is removably attached to the ACC assembly. | 06-20-2013 |
20130152340 | ADJUSTABLE HINGE ASSEMBLY - A hinge assembly may include a hinge bracket, a pivot member and a hinge arm. The hinge bracket may be adapted to be mounted to a frame member of a vehicle. The pivot member may be connected to the hinge bracket and may be pivotable relative thereto. The hinge arm may be connected to the pivot member and may be pivotable about a longitudinal axis of the pivot member. The hinge arm may be linearly adjustable in a first direction relative to the hinge bracket and linearly adjustable in a second direction relative to the hinge bracket. The first and second directions may be substantially perpendicular relative to each other. The hinge arm may be adapted to be coupled to a closure panel of the vehicle to move the closure panel relative to the frame member between an open position and a closed position. | 06-20-2013 |
20130151237 | DYNAMIC METHOD FOR EMOTICON TRANSLATION - A vehicle communication system is provided and may include at least one communication device that audibly communicates information within the vehicle. A controller may receive a character string from an external device and may determine if the character string represents an emoticon. The controller may translate the character string into a face description if the character string represents an emoticon and may audibly communicate the face description via the at least one communication device. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150192 | COMPLIANT GUIDE DEVICE - A compliant guide device for a chain or a belt is provided. The compliant guide device includes a contact section and a mounting section. The contact section is configured to compliantly contact both a slack side and a tension side of the chain or belt. The mounting section is configured to be moveably mounted about a shaft utilized with the chain or belt. | 06-13-2013 |
20130147227 | STOWABLE SEAT ARRANGEMENT FOR A VEHICLE - A stowable seat arrangement can include a seat having a seat back pivotably coupled to a seat bottom. A pair of front and rear legs can be pivotably coupled to the seat bottom. A first floor panel can be fixed to the pair of front legs. An access panel can be pivotably coupled to the vehicle and the front legs. The seat can selectively articulate from a deployed to a stowed position where the seat is adapted to be received in a stowage recess of the vehicle. The articulation of the seat can automatically open the access panel to provide access to the recess and then close the access panel upon the seat being in the stowed position. The first floor panel can automatically move to a substantially horizontal position relative to a vehicle floor to provide a flat load floor configuration when the seat is in the stowed position. | 06-13-2013 |
20130147169 | ACTIVE AIRBAG VENTING SYSTEM - An airbag assembly including an airbag inflatable from a housing in operation with an occupant classification system is provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. The occupant classification system is incorporated into a vehicle seat and is in communication with the airbag. A selectively actuatable vent formed in the airbag is opened during deployment of the airbag based on a determination from the occupant classification system. | 06-13-2013 |
20130146401 | CABLE-LENGTH-ADJUSTMENT DEVICE - An adjustment device may include a conduit-adjustment mechanism and a cable-adjustment mechanism. The conduit-adjustment mechanism may be connected to first and second conduit segments and may be movable to adjust a position of one of the first and second conduit segments relative to the other of the first and second conduit segments. The cable-adjustment mechanism may be connected to first and second cable segments at least partially received within the first and second conduit segments, respectively. The cable-adjustment mechanism may be configured to transmit motion between the first and second cable segments. The cable-adjustment mechanism may be movable independently of the conduit-adjustment mechanism to adjust a position of one of the first and second cable segments relative to the other of the first and second cable segments. | 06-13-2013 |
20130146382 | IMPACT SENSITIVE LATCH ACTUATION LINK FOR VEHICLE DOOR - An apparatus may include a latch mechanism, an actuator, and an actuation link. The latch mechanism may be movable to allow and restrict movement of a vehicle door relative to a vehicle frame. The actuator may be configured to be movable by a user to cause corresponding movement of the latch mechanism. The actuation link may interconnect the latch mechanism and the actuator. The actuation link may include a portion that is laterally compliant to absorb a lateral force and axially rigid to transmit motion of the actuator to the latch mechanism. | 06-13-2013 |
20130146008 | ROCKER ARM PROVIDING CYLINDER DEACTIVATION - A rocker arm assembly to provide either cylinder deactivation or reduced valve lift. The rocker arm assembly includes inner and outer portions that are rotatably connected to one another. In one state, the inner and outer portions are locked together to provide traditional valve lift. In a second state, the inner portion is allowed to rotate relative to the outer portion to deactivate the cylinder or provide reduced valve lift. Bearings on both the inner and outer portions provide rolling contact with corresponding cam shaft features. A hydraulic system provides transition between the first and second states. | 06-13-2013 |
20130127101 | THREE-STAGE CONCENTRIC COIL SPRING SYSTEM - A spring system that includes at least an inner spring and an outer spring disposed around the inner spring. The inner spring exhibits a stiffness k | 05-23-2013 |
20130105269 | PARK SLOW RELEASE | 05-02-2013 |
20130104825 | HYDRAULIC VALVE LIFTER PUSHROD SEAL | 05-02-2013 |
20130098198 | PENDULUM VIBRATION ABSORBER ON A CRANKSHAFT - An apparatus for damping vibrations in an internal combustion engine. The apparatus includes a crankshaft with a lobe. The lobe has a flange with an opening that is coupled to the body of the lobe. A pendulum is pivotally coupled to the flange in a manner to allow the pendulum to follow an epicycloidal path of movement. | 04-25-2013 |
20130091957 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STRUCTURE STIFFNESS DETERMINATION - In at least one implementation, a method for determining the stiffness of a structure may include connecting a test member to the structure, directing a beam of light at a measurement surface carried by at least one of the test member or the structure, impacting an impact surface carried by the test member with a known impact force, and determining the movement of the measurement surface that is caused by the impact. The movement of the measurement surface may be determined as a function of changes in the length of the beam of light and the stiffness of the structure may be a function of the magnitude of the measurement surface movement. | 04-18-2013 |
20130087245 | COOLING SYSTEM FILLING AIR - A coolant filling assembly including a coolant bottle having a threaded neck, and a coolant filling aid having a cap that threadingly couples to the threaded neck of the coolant bottle. The coolant filling aid includes a conical body having a seal assembly at an end thereof. The cap is positioned between the conical body and the seal assembly, and the seal assembly sealingly engages an inner surface of the threaded neck of the coolant bottle. | 04-11-2013 |
20130080038 | ENGINE START CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICALLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION - A system and method of controlling first and second electric motors of a vehicle having an electrically variable transmission during an engine start/stop operation. The system and method determine an input speed profile and an input acceleration profile based on an optimum engine speed, determine a requested output torque based on a plurality of torque limits and a desired output torque, determine first and second feedforward motor torques based on a requested output torque and the input speed and input acceleration profiles, determine first and second feedback motor torques based on a difference between the input speed profile and an actual input speed, and using the feedforward and feedback first and second motor torques to control the operation of the first and second electric motors when an engine is being turned on or off. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079195 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RAPID WARM-UP OF A COMBUSTION ENGINE - A transmission and a method for loading an engine in a vehicle. The transmission includes a gear set, an input shaft coupled to the gear set, and a plurality of friction elements coupled to the gear set. The transmission also includes a control system to direct a subset of the plurality of friction elements to engage the gear set to stall the input shaft thereby placing a load on the engine. The load causes additional heat that may be used to warm up the vehicle's passenger compartment and/or defrost the vehicle's windshield. | 03-28-2013 |
20130075221 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED TRANSMISSION CLUTCH FILL DURING ENGINE START-STOP OPERATION - An apparatus and a method for engaging a friction element, e.g., a clutch, in an automatic transmission. The apparatus includes a piston contained within a housing that is used to apply pressure to and operate the friction element. The piston divides the housing into first and second chambers that are supplied with fluid by various valves. The pressure of the fluid in the chambers controls the position of the piston. | 03-28-2013 |
20130074574 | WEDGE ACTIVATED ROTATING FILLER CAM UTILIZING A SADDLE FOR ROTATION - A rotating filler cam system including a lower die receiving at least one filler cam. The filler cam includes saddles that sit in saddle pockets of the lower die such that the filler cam is rotatably connected to the lower die. At least one wedge assembly is driven to contact the filler cam and rotate the filler cam from a first position to a second position. | 03-28-2013 |
20130072313 | TUNED PROPELLER SHAFT, VEHICLE CONTAINING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF REDUCING NOISE IN A VEHICLE DRIVELINE - A driveshaft assembly that reduces noise created by a vehicle driveline. The driveshaft assembly includes a shaft having a first end section, a second end section, and a midsection positioned between the first end section and the second end section. The first end section and the second end section have a first diameter D | 03-21-2013 |
20130069349 | SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENT - An airbag deployment system for a vehicle is provided. The system can include an airbag positioned between a vehicle frame and a headliner, and a trim member positioned inboard of the frame. The system can also include a deployment ramp coupled to the frame and the trim member. The deployment ramp can have a ramp surface. The ramp surface can be positioned and configured such that when the airbag is deployed a portion of the airbag engages the ramp surface and the trim member to urge the trim member in an outboard direction toward the frame. | 03-21-2013 |
20130069346 | INTERIOR ROOF RETAINER - An airbag deployment system for a vehicle is provided. The airbag deployment system can include an airbag positioned between a vehicle frame and a headliner. The airbag deployment system can also include a retainer positioned along the headliner. The retainer can have a rib positioned and configured above the airbag. When the airbag is deployed, the rib can urge the airbag away from the rib in a direction of a lower, external side edge of the headliner, toward an interior portion of the vehicle. | 03-21-2013 |
20130069345 | ATTACHMENT CLIP - An attachment clip for coupling an airbag to a motor vehicle is provided. The clip can include a first leg having a first aperture, a second aperture and a protrusion extending from an edge of the second aperture in an outward direction from the first leg. The clip can include a second leg spaced from the first leg and coupled to the first leg. The second leg has a threaded aperture substantially coaxial with the first aperture of the first leg. The space between the first and second legs can slidably receive a mounting member and a portion of the airbag. The protrusion can engage the portion of the airbag, and a fastener can extend through the first aperture of the first leg, through the portion of the airbag and through the mounting member to engage the threaded aperture of the second leg for attaching the airbag to the vehicle. | 03-21-2013 |
20130068502 | DRY DOOR GROMMET - A protective wiring grommet that prevents water or debris from entering the grommet. The grommet includes a lower member, an intermediate member coupled to the lower member; and an upper member coupled to the intermediate member. The lower member, the intermediate member, and the upper member collectively define a wiring trough, a wiring conduit in communication with the trough that extends substantially orthogonal to the wiring trough in a first direction, and a wiring feed tube in communication with the wiring conduit that extends substantially orthogonal to the wiring conduit in a second direction. Such a configuration assists in routing wiring within the vehicle and through the grommet, to reduce manufacturing costs and efforts, as well as maintenance costs and efforts. | 03-21-2013 |
20130068199 | HIGH PRESSURE SOLENOID - A solenoid that includes a housing having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface defining a bore through the housing and the outer surface including a flange extending therefrom. A gland nut having a threaded outer surface and an inner surface surrounds the outer surface of the housing, is rotatable relative to the housing, and abuts the flange. | 03-21-2013 |
20130065717 | VARIABLE SPEED ALTERNATOR - A variable speed alternator can include a shaft and adjustable pulley assembly coupled to the shaft. The adjustable pulley assembly can include a support member fixed to the shaft and an adjustable pulley moveably coupled to the support member. The adjustable pulley can have a plurality of individually moveable members each with an outer surface forming a portion of a belt engaging surface for receiving a flat belt to drive the adjustable pulley. Each moveable member can be selectively linearly moveable in a radial direction to vary an outer diameter of the adjustable pulley between a first position having a first outer diameter and a second position having a second outer diameter to selectively vary a driven speed of the alternator shaft. | 03-14-2013 |
20130062903 | STOWABLE SEAT ARRANGEMENT FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE - A seat assembly for a vehicle having a floor can include a seat bottom, a seat back, a pair of front legs and a pair of rear legs. The seat bottom can have a seating side and an opposite lower side facing the floor. The front legs can be pivotably coupled to the vehicle and to the seat bottom via releasable locking mechanisms. The rear legs can be pivotably coupled to the seat bottom and releasably coupled to the vehicle. A pair of linking members can pivotably couple the front and rear legs to each other. The seat assembly can be movable from a deployed to a stowed position whereby the seat bottom can be pivoted forward about the front and rear legs while maintaining the seat bottom lower side facing the floor and the front and rear legs pivotably coupled to the vehicle and the seat bottom. | 03-14-2013 |
20130057399 | GAWR EXCEED WARNING SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A warning system for a vehicle having an air suspension system can include an indicator, an event data recorder, and a controller. The controller can be configured to determine a load on a front axle and a rear axle when the vehicle is in a static condition and compare the determined load on the front and rear axles to a predetermined load threshold for each of the front and rear axles. A warning signal can be provided to the indicator indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined load threshold upon the controller determining one of the determined loads exceeds the corresponding predetermined load threshold. Data indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined threshold can be communicated to the event data recorder. | 03-07-2013 |
20130047454 | PEDAL MEASUREMENT DEVICE - A measurement device for a vehicle having a first pedal and a second pedal is provided and may include a fixture releasably attached to one of the first pedal and the second pedal. A first bar may be supported by the fixture and may extend toward the other of the first pedal and the second pedal and a housing may be slidably attached to the first bar. A second bar may be slidably attached to the housing may include a first surface that engages a first portion of the other of the first pedal and the second pedal and a second surface that engages a second portion of the other of the first pedal and the second pedal. The housing may identify the relative position of the first pedal and the second pedal once in contact with the first portion and the second portion. | 02-28-2013 |
20130035025 | CONTAINMENT HOOD - A containment hood may include a first shell portion, a second shell portion and a lid portion. The first shell portion may include a first interior-facing surface. The second shell portion may be spaced apart from the first shell portion and may include a second interior-facing surface. The first and second interior-facing surfaces may oppose each other. The lid portion may extend between and engage the first and second shell portions. The lid portion may cooperate with the first and second shell portions to form at least a partial enclosure defining an interior volume. The first and second shell portions and the lid portion may cooperate to define a first opening through which a user is able to access the interior volume. | 02-07-2013 |
20130030628 | MOTOR OPERATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICALLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION - A motor operation control system and method for controlling first and second electric motors of an electrically variable transmission. The system and method determine a minimum battery power associated with a torque of the second electric motor, set the torque of the second electric motor based on the determined minimum battery power, and set a torque of the first electric motor based on the determined minimum battery power. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030627 | MODE SELECTION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICALLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION - A mode selection control system and method for controlling an electrically variable transmission. The system and method calculate respective costs for operating the vehicle in a plurality of operating modes based on a battery discharge penalty and the costs associated with operating the electrical and mechanical portions of the transmission. The method selects an operating mode having the lowest calculated cost. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030626 | SHIFT EXECUTION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICALLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION - A system and method of controlling first and second electric motors of a vehicle having an electrically variable transmission during an engine start/stop operation. The system and method determine a type of shift being performed, determine if a first clutch is being applied or released during the shift, determine if a second clutch is being applied or released during the shift, determine an acceleration limit based on the shift being performed and which clutch is being applied and/or released, determine acceleration and speed profiles based on the shift being performed, which clutch is being applied and/or released and the acceleration limit, determine a first electric motor torque and a second electric motor torque based on the acceleration and speed profiles, and set the torques of the first and second electric motors to the determined first and second electric motor torques. | 01-31-2013 |
20130025560 | CYLINDER HEAD ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF FORMING THE SAME - A cylinder head assembly for an internal combustion engine includes a fluid cavity that contains a fluid. The cylinder head assembly also includes a first member with a first internal surface defining a first part of the fluid cavity. Also, the assembly includes a second member with a second internal surface defining a second part of the fluid cavity. The second member is coupled to the first member. The first and second internal surfaces cooperate to define the fluid cavity. | 01-31-2013 |
20130023368 | CLUTCH SYSTEM FOR A TRANSMISSION - A clutch system for a transmission having a clutch assembly and a brake assembly. The clutch system includes a clutch assembly and a brake assembly coupled to a planetary gear set, engine and two electric motors to reduce transmission complexity, costs, and efficiency losses. The clutch assembly also includes a wear compensation mechanism and a clutch separator mechanism. | 01-24-2013 |
20120275930 | ELECTRIC MOTOR ASSIST FOR TRANSMISSION ELECTRIC OIL PUMP - A method for assisting a transmission oil pump in a hybrid electric powertrain to generate transmission oil pressure rapidly during vehicle start. An electric motor is initially utilized to provide momentary torque to rotate an oil pump and rapidly generate transmission oil pressure. After initial assistance is provided by the electric motor, an oil pump electric motor powers the oil pump and maintains oil pressure within the hybrid powertrain. | 11-01-2012 |
20120270691 | MULTI-MODE ELECTRIC DRIVE HYBRID TRANSMISSION - A hybrid powertrain for a vehicle having a disconnect clutch located between an internal combustion engine, or other power source, and a hybrid transmission. When deactivated, the disconnect clutch decouples the engine from the hybrid transmission, which enables the hybrid transmission input shaft to rotate independently of the internal combustion engine. This enables enhanced electric drive performance for the hybrid transmission. The disconnect clutch provides for internal combustion engine starting, including internal combustion starting at high vehicle speeds. | 10-25-2012 |
20120261968 | REAR VEHICLE SEAT AUTOMATIC HEAD REST SYSTEM - An extendible and retractable head rest system for a motor vehicle seat has a head rest coupled to a linkage and an actuator coupled to the linkage. The linkage includes an offset drive link that upon the actuator being actuated to extend the head rest system to an operative position, the linkage moves the head rest up and forward and upon the actuator being actuated to retract the head rest system to an inoperative position, the linkage moves the head rest back and down. In an aspect, the linkage kneels when the head rest reaches an upper position to move the head rest to a forward position. | 10-18-2012 |
20120261228 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING WET CLUTCH TEMPERATURE - A method for determining clutch temperature. The method provides an accurate real-time clutch temperature that can be used to improve shift quality and protect against failure due to clutch overheating. A counter is incremented every time the clutch exceeds a threshold temperature to track cumulative high temperature conditions. Determining the clutch temperatures includes taking account of heat generation, clutch cooling by transmission oil flow from a groove when the clutch is engaged, clutch cooling by open transmission oil flow when the clutch is disengaged, oil vaporization, and heat conduction. | 10-18-2012 |
20120160791 | GUN AND FISHING ROD HOLDER - A gun and fishing rod holder. The holder comprises at least one stand mounted on a table. The at least one stand can be arranged in first (gun holding) and second (fishing rod holding) configurations. The first (gun holding) configuration of a stand comprises a pair of U-shaped channels. The second (fishing rod holding) configuration of a stand comprises an upside-down U-shaped support having a plurality of rod holders. | 06-28-2012 |
20120115660 | HYBRID TRANSMISSION HAVING SYNCHRONIZERS - A transmission used in a hybrid vehicle comprising a planetary gear set and a synchronizer. The planetary gear set having a plurality of members and the synchronizer coupling and decoupling one of the members to change a speed ratio in the transmission. | 05-10-2012 |
20120003523 | BATTERY THERMAL MANAGEMENT WITH PHASE TRANSITION - An apparatus and method provide battery thermal management through the use of a battery cell having an internal cavity and a phase change material (PCM) disposed in the internal cavity of the battery cell. By locating the PCM inside of the battery cell, the entire outer surface of the cell is accessible for direct heat transfer to a heat exchange apparatus. | 01-05-2012 |