Abstract:
The present invention provides for an improved hardware carrier for use in a trim panel assembly, and a method of making the same. To this end, the hardware carrier includes a body having a front and back surface and a seal molded to the front surface of the body for contacting the doorframe structure of a motor vehicle to seal the carrier thereto. A two-shot molding process utilizing a single mold assembly is used to form the carrier, with the body being formed in the first shot and the seal being formed in the second shot so that the seal is bonded thereto. The molded seal advantageously is provided with a non-linear configuration, such as a substantially repeating v-shaped configuration, and includes a planar top surface. The non-linear configuration of the seal, in conjunction with the top planar surface, advantageously provides a substantial surface area for contacting the doorframe to prevent water leakage within the vehicle.
Abstract:
A vehicle door assembly for a motor vehicle including a door frame, a trim panel secured removably to the door frame, and a carrier plate positioned between the door frame and the door trim panel. The vehicle door assembly further includes a door component fastened to both the door frame and to the carrier plate. Preferably, the door frame structurally carries at least 50 percent of the weight of the door component. An assembly including the carrier plate, the door component, and the door trim panel may be delivered as a unit to an assembly line of the motor vehicle for mounting to the door frame.
Abstract:
An automotive door assembly comprises a door frame, an interior trim panel removably secured to the door frame by a plurality of connecting members, and one or more door accessories disposed between the door frame and the interior trim panel and connected to the door frame and interior trim panel by the connecting members. The connecting members include first engagement portions that fixedly attach the door accessories to the door frame, and second engagement portions that releasably attach the door frame and door accessories to the trim panel. The door accessories are initially supported on the interior trim panel for assembly onto the door frame when the trim panel is installed on the door frame. Thereafter, the door accessories remain fixed to the door frame when the trim panel is removed.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a process for designing and manufacturing an ignition system for an internal combustion engine. The process can include performing a plurality of simulations that include simulating an electrical circuit with a spark initiating device for igniting the fuel mixture within an internal combustion chamber, an electrical breakdown proximate to the spark initiating device, a plasma arc and an afterglow regime.
Abstract:
A vehicle has a roadable configuration similar to an automobile in which multiple rotors are stowed within the vehicle, and a flying configuration in which the rotors are deployed from the vehicle, allowing it to fly like a VTOL/STOL aircraft or a helicopter.
Abstract:
An assembly for supporting an article in a vehicle includes a vehicle component. A support housing is pivotably connected to the component for movement between an adjacent position and an extended position. The assembly further includes a support member for laterally supporting an article. The support member is moveable relative to the support housing.
Abstract:
A blind load vehicle door module includes a first exposed side having interior trim and a second hidden side with at least a door latch actuator and window regulator mechanism, wherein the module has a plurality of connectors extending from the hidden side including at least two lower connectors insertable into corresponding slots of a door frame to allow pivoting during assembly of the module about the lower connectors to insert at least one upper connector into a corresponding slot of the door frame, the plurality of connectors being slidable within the corresponding slots of the door frame from an inserted position to a locking position to secure the module to the door frame. One or more threaded fasteners may be used to secure the module in the locking position.
Abstract:
A console for a vehicle is disclosed. The console includes a body defining an opening and also includes a lid that is configured to cover the opening and a panel that is movably mounted relative to the body. The panel is movable between a retracted position within the opening and an extended position away from the opening. The panel also has at least one receptacle formed therein. The receptacle is configured to receive an object therein.
Abstract:
The present invention provides for an improved hardware carrier for use in a trim panel assembly, and a method of making the same. To this end, the hardware carrier includes a body having a front and back surface and a seal molded to the front surface of the body for contacting the doorframe structure of a motor vehicle to seal the carrier thereto. A two-shot molding process utilizing a single mold assembly is used to form the carrier, with the body being formed in the first shot and the seal being formed in the second shot so that the seal is bonded thereto. The molded seal advantageously is provided with a non-linear configuration, such as a substantially repeating v-shaped configuration, and includes a planar top surface. The non-linear configuration of the seal, in conjunction with the top planar surface, advantageously provides a substantial surface area for contacting the doorframe to prevent water leakage within the vehicle.
Abstract:
The present invention provides for an improved automotive ashtray, and to a two shot molding method for making the same, having a reduced number of parts and that is adapted to be coupled to a substrate of an interior trim assembly, e.g. a door panel, in a vehicle. To this end, the ashtray includes a compartment body and a cover with each including at least one integrally formed connecting member being pivotally coupled together so that the cover may be moved between an open and a closed position for accessing a cavity within the body.