Most innovative companies for 01/18/2022 (new inventions)

Exciting new inventions from Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Hyundai Motor Company, Ford Global Technologies, Llc, Gm Global Technology Operations Llc And The Boeing Company


This is a weekly article summarizing a handful of inventions from the most innovative companies in the world. The summaries are created by an A.I. and proof-read by a human before publication. Attempts are made to ensure accuracy of the descriptions, but it is very much a work in progress. Each invention description is preceeded by a poem about the invention that is written by the A.I. I have found the limerick is actually quite good at explaining the invention in simple terms. Enjoy!

TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA

An Exhaust Gas Purification Catalyst with Enhanced Performance

What is this invention?

Exhaust gas purification catalyst


There once was an exhaust gas purification catalyst
That could perform well, even under a high Ga condition
The coating on the substrate was made of catalyst particles
And in the upstream region, there were many high-aspect-ratio pores

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Exhaust gas purification catalyst

Are you looking for an exhaust gas purification catalyst that can handle high levels of Ga? If so, then the TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA catalyst may be just what you are looking for. This unique product features a substrate and a coating layer made from catalyst particles. The coating layer covers the entire substrate, extending up to 60% of its length in the direction of exhaust gas flow. This allows for excellent purification performance even under harsh conditions. In addition, the upstream region has a composition that is different from the downstream region - meaning that more impurities will be caught by this area. This enhanced purification ability means less waste and improved engine performance!

The present invention provides an exhaust gas purification catalyst that can exhibit sufficient purification performance even under a high Ga condition. The exhaust gas purification catalyst comprises a substrate and a catalyst coating layer formed on the substrate, wherein the catalyst coating layer comprises catalyst particles. The upstream region extends by 40 to 60% of the entire length of the substrate from an upstream end of the catalyst in the direction of an exhaust gas flow and has a structure where a void is included in a large number, and furthermore high-aspect-ratio pores having an aspect ratio of 5 or more account for a certain percentage or more of the whole volume of voids. Thus, the exhaust gas purification catalyst exhibits enhanced purification performance.


Ford Global Technologies, LLC

Window Wiper Keeps Your Car Clean

What is this invention?

Sensor assembly with cleaning


There was a system with a sensor window
And a sensor that had a view
With a piezoelectric vibrator
To remove any obstructions from view

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Sensor assembly with cleaning

Have you ever had to clean a window sensor on your car? If so, you know that it can be a pain. With this new invention from Ford Global Technologies, LLC, that problem might finally be solved! The Sensor Assembly with Cleaning system includes a sensor window, a sensor having a field of view through the sensor window, and a piezoelectric vibrator positioned to impart vibrations to the sensor window. This vibration will cause any obstruction within the field of view to be detected and then removed by the computer. Whether it's leaves or dust particles, this system will take care of it! Not only is this an incredibly useful tool for drivers, but it's also great for maintenance personnel who need to keep sensors clean without hassle. Keep your car running smoothly with this innovative invention from Ford Global Technologies, LLC!

The system describes a sensor window, a sensor having a field of view through the sensor window, and a piezoelectric vibrator positioned to impart vibrations to the sensor window. The computer is programmed to identify a type for an obstruction of the sensor window based on data from the sensor, and instruct the piezoelectric vibrator to vibrate the sensor window with vibrations having a vibration profile that has at least one of frequency or phase velocity chosen according to the identified type of obstruction. This can help remove any obstructions from view in the sensor's field of view.


GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

New Tip Dresser Cutter Includes Curved Radial Inward Canted Surface

What is this invention?

Weld gun cap dresser cutter


This tip dresser cutter is quite a find,
With a circumferential portion that's circular and fine.
It has a center portion located inward from the first,
And a cutting flute that extends radially between the two worst.

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Weld gun cap dresser cutter

Do you hate having to cut the weld gun cap dresser every time you need to change the tip? Well, GM Global Technology Operations LLC has come up with a solution for you! Their Weld Gun Cap Dresser Cutter includes a circumferential portion that is rotatable about an axis of rotation. This allows for quick and easy access to the weld gun cap dresser without having to remove the entire dresser. The center portion of the cutter is located radially inward from the circumferential portion proximate the axis of rotation, so it's easy to position your cutting tool in just the right spot. And last but not least, there's a cutting flute that extends between the center portion and circumferential portion. This flute includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a radially inward canted surface that extends between these two edges. The canted surface features a first section extending between the center portion and a first location on the cutting flute and a second section extending between this first location on the cutting flute and a second location on the cutting flute. The second section of this canted surface includes a curved portion that is parallel to the plane of rotation of your welding tool! With this amazing cutter in your arsenal, changing tips will be much easier than ever before!

This tip dresser cutter includes a circumferential portion with a circular shape that rotates about an axis of rotation, a center portion located radially inward from the circumferential portion proximate the axis of rotation, and a cutting flute extending radially between the center portion and the circumferential portion. The cutting flute includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a radially inward canted surface that extends between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The radially inward canted surface includes a first section extending between the center portion and a first location on the cutting flute and a second section extending between the first location on the cutting flute and a second location on the cutting flute. The second section of the radially inward canted surface includes a curved portion that is parallel to a plane of rotation of the cutting flute.


TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA

A method for welding dissimilar metals with a higher melting point together

What is this invention?

Method for stack-welding dissimilar metal members


There once was a method for welding
That used a laser beam for heating
The first metal member would be melted
Then the second one was placed on top
And when the molten pool came into contact
Both members were welded together tight!

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Method for stack-welding dissimilar metal members

If you're looking to improve your welding skills, then you'll want to check out this new method for stack-welding dissimilar metal members. The TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA has developed a way of welding two pieces of metal that have a higher melting point together without having to use any extra heat. This is possible thanks to the use of a laser beam for thermal-conduction welding. After the molten pool comes into contact with the first metal member and hence the first metal member melts in the molten pool, the molten pool solidifies, so that the first and second metal members and are welded together. This system is perfect for situations where two pieces of metal have different melting points or if you need to weld two different types of metals together.

This method for stack-welding dissimilar metal members by placing a first metal member and a second metal member having a melting point higher than that of the first metal member on top of one another and performing laser welding is provided. The second metal member is placed on the first metal member, and a molten pool in which only the second metal member is melted is formed by applying a laser beam for thermal-conduction welding from above the second metal member. After the molten pool comes into contact with the first metalmember and hence the first Metal Member melts in the molten pool, the molten pool solidifies, so that welds are created between both members.


The Boeing Company

Clamping Hole-Fitting Technique Simplified

What is this invention?

Method and apparatus for single-sided clamp-up


There once was a man from Nantucket
Who had a very peculiar knack
For aligning holes in panels
With great precision and care
So that they could be clamped up tight

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Method and apparatus for single-sided clamp-up

There are a number of different methods and apparatuses available for aligning holes in panels to create through-holes. One such method is the Boeing Company's single-sided clamp-up system. This system uses a wall that defines the second hole to grip from within the through-hole to pull the second panel towards the first panel and thereby establish a clamp-up of the first panel and the second panel. This type of alignment can be used for a variety of purposes, including but not limited to joining two sheets of metal together or creating an opening in one piece of material so that another piece may be attached. With so many options available, it is important to have a system that can handle any task you might need it for!

The text describes methods and apparatuses for aligning a first hole in a first panel with a second hole in a second panel to define a through-hole. A wall that defines the second hole is gripped from within the through-hole to pull the second panel towards the first panel and thereby establish a clamp-up of the first panel and the second panel.


THE BOEING COMPANY

Clamping Force Maintained with Differential Thermal Expansion

What is this invention?

Mold assembly


There once was an assembly with two mold components,
One had a first slot and the other, a second.
The connector between them caused differential expansion,
So when heated, they'd create a clamping force.

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Mold assembly

It is no surprise that companies are looking for ways to improve the quality and efficiency of mold assembly. One such company is Boeing, who have developed a connector that has thermal expansion characteristics that differ from those of both the first and second mold components. When assembled together, this combination creates a clamping force between the two parts which helps to ensure a perfect fit for each individual part. Not only does this system help to reduce wasted time and material, but it also results in improved overall quality - meaning faster production times! We can't wait to see what else Boeing comes up with in the future - they definitely have our attention!

The patent describes an assembly that includes a first mold component defining a first portion of a mold cavity and a first slot, and a second mold component defining a second portion of the mold cavity and a second slot. The first and second slots correspond to different portions of the retention channel. The connector has thermal expansion characteristics that are different from thermal expansion characteristics of the first and second mold components such that when the first and second Mold components are in contact and the connector is inserted into the retention channel, heating the assembly causes differential thermal expansion of the connector and the mold components, resulting in a clamping force between them.


The Boeing Company

Manufacturing System Keeps Manufacturing Process on Track with Continuous Profiling

What is this invention?

Bead-type additive manufacturing system and method


There once was a printhead named Fred
Who extruded material onto a bed.
With the help of a profilometer,
They made sure every bead was in order.
The control system kept things on track,
So the end result was never off-kilter!

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Bead-type additive manufacturing system and method

The Boeing Company has released a revolutionary new additive manufacturing system that could change the way products are manufactured. The Bead-type additive manufacturing system and method allows for the printing of new beads on a substrate, which in turn can help to reduce or prevent nonconformities associated with forming new beads. By using a reference profile as a guide, the control system is able to adjust one or more bead forming parameters so that conformities are maintained throughout the printing process. This technology has the potential to revolutionize product design and production, and could be used in everything from aircraft parts to medical implants. With such an extensive range of applications, it's clear that this technology has far-reaching implications for both industry and society as a whole.

This article describes a manufacturing system that includes a printhead, a profilometer, and a control system. The printhead extrudes a material onto the substrate and forms new beads during additive manufacturing of an in-work article. The profilometer moves with the printhead and measures an in-work cross-sectional profile of existing beads of the in-work article. The control system generates in-work profile data including the in-work cross-sectional profile at a plurality of in-work profile locations, and continuously compares the in-work profile data to reference profile data of a reference article. If there are any nonconformities associated with forming the new bead, then the control system adjusts one or more bead forming parameters accordingly to reduce or prevent these nonconformities. This way, it is possible to produce accurate and consistent beads during additive manufacturing using this manufacturing system.


Hyundai Motor Company

Motor Driven Air Vent Device Lets You Control Airflow Direction

What is this invention?

Motor driven air vent device for vehicle


There once was a device for a car
That could make the air vent go far
With left and right rotation
It could change the direction
Of airflow, with just the push of a button!

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Motor driven air vent device for vehicle

Do you have a problem with stale air blowing in your face while you're driving? Well, this innovative product from Hyundai Motor Company may be just the solution. The Motor Driven Air Vent Device for Vehicle allows drivers to adjust the direction of airflow using a vertical wing and an opening/closing damper. This system is also capable of performing a straight line motion to the left or right, which makes it perfect for adjusting ventilation during vehicle operation. If you're looking for an easy way to improve your driving experience, this device is definitely worth checking out!

The patent describes a motor-driven air vent device for a vehicle, which can perform left/right angular rotation of a vertical wing to adjust the airflow direction of air discharged indoors, as well as an opening/closing operation of a damper for interrupting or allowing an indoor discharge of air.


FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

Removable Roof Panel Roof Rack for Your Vehicle

What is this invention?

Method of mounting a roof rack on a vehicle having a removable roof


A vehicle with a roof rack
Is perfect for carrying my stuff
I can put my gear on top
And not worry about it dropping
With this type of transportation, I'm set!

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Method of mounting a roof rack on a vehicle having a removable roof

Looking to add a little extra capacity and versatility to your vehicle? Check out Ford's newest invention for the roof rack! Not only does this system allow you to transport larger items with ease, it also provides an elevated platform for loading your gear in a more organized fashion. The roof rack is easily attached to the rails on the roof support framework of your car, and can accommodate most cargo carriers or racks. Whether you're looking for a place to store bikes, camping gear, or just some extra storage space, the roof rack is perfect for you!

A vehicle including a passenger compartment, a roof support framework, and at least one roof bow. The roof support framework includes a pair of roof rails, a header, and at least one roof bow. The header is attached to the rails and extends through the roof panels. Pins are assembled to the rails or to brackets attached to the rails that extend through the roof panels. A roof rack or cargo carrier is attached to upper ends of the pins and is spaced above the roof panels.


GM Global Technology Operations LLC

Get a fresh breeze in your car with this new plenum assembly!

What is this invention?

Windshield plenum assembly with integrated ventilation port


There once was an assembly called Plenum
That included a grid with some openings
To keep out debris, they had separation members
So that air could pass through the vent port with ease

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Windshield plenum assembly with integrated ventilation port

Looking for an innovative way to improve the ventilation in your car? Check out this new plenum assembly from GM Global Technology Operations LLC! The plenum assembly includes a plenum body, a grid coupled to the plenum body, and a separation member extending from the grid surface toward the plenum body. The grid surface includes a plurality of grid openings that allow air to flow freely and efficiently through your car. Plus, with its integrated dome shape, this vent will add style while helping you stay cool and comfortable during summer months.

The plenum assembly for a vehicle includes a plenum body, a plenum grid coupled to the plenum body, the plenum grid including a grid surface having a plurality of grid openings and a separation member extending from the grid surface toward the plenum body, and a vent port including a side surface extending from the plenum body and a domed surface formed integrally with the side surface, the vent port including an edge defining a vent port opening in the side surface such that air passes through the vent port. The separation member prevents debris from entering into or accumulating within the space between the grid openings.


GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

Control Charging for Your Electric Vehicle with These Simple Steps

What is this invention?

Electric vehicle charging platform


There once were some cars with big batteries
That needed to be charged up nightly
So their owners would pair them
With charging stations, and there
They'd sit plugged in, all bright and shiny

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Electric vehicle charging platform

The electric vehicle charging market is growing quickly, and there are a lot of options for drivers to choose from. One such option is the GM Global Technology Operations LLC electric vehicle charging platform. This system allows drivers to control the charging process for their vehicles in a variety of ways. For example, you can pair your car with different chargers in order to get the best possible charge for your battery. Additionally, this system can monitor your battery status and notify you when it needs to be charged again. So if you're ever out of town and don't have access to a charger, this system will help you get back on the road as soon as possible!

In various embodiments, methods and systems are provided for controlling charging for a plurality of electric vehicles. Each of the plurality of electric vehicles includes a respective battery that is charged electrically via a respective charger. In one exemplary embodiment, vehicle data, including respective charge statuses for the respective batteries of the plurality of electric vehicles, is obtained via sensors onboard the plurality of electric vehicles. Charging station data, including respective availabilities for the plurality of charging stations, is also obtained. The plurality of electric vehicles are each paired with respective charging stations, generated paired sets of electric vehicles and charging stations, based on the vehicle data and the charging station data. Charging of respective batteries of the electric vehicles are controlled with the respective paired charging stations, via the processor.


GM Global Technology Operations LLC

Rechargeable Energy Storage Device for Electric Vehicles Gets Improved Management

What is this invention?

Management system with supervisory control for rechargeable energy storage device in electric vehicle


The management system for an electric car
Is quite complex, with many moving parts.
But the supervisory controller
Keeps everything in order,
Making sure the battery pack is up to par.

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Management system with supervisory control for rechargeable energy storage device in electric vehicle

With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, it is important to have a management system in place that can keep the battery packs within the vehicle charged and ready for use. One such management system is described in the patent application titled "Management System for Rechargeable Energy Storage Device in Electric Vehicle." The system includes a number of modules that are interconnected through microcircuits. A module management unit is embedded within each of these modules and is configured to determine local parameters, such as cell voltage, temperature, etc. In addition, a supervisory controller is also included and is configured to communicate with each module management unit. This controller determines global pack parameters based on the local parameters and transmits this information back to the respective module management units. This allows for precise control over the operation of all battery packs within an electric vehicle!

The management system for a rechargeable energy storage device in an electric vehicle and corresponding method is disclosed. The rechargeable energy storage device has one or more battery packs each having a plurality of modules with one or more respective cells. A respective module management unit is embedded in each of the plurality of modules through respective microcircuits and configured to determine one or more local parameters. A supervisory controller is configured for two-way communication with the respective module management unit. The supervisory controller is configured to receive the local parameters, determine one or more global pack parameters based in part on the local parameters and transmit the global pack parameters back to the respective management unit. The supervisory controller is also configured to control operation of the rechargeable energy storage device based in part on the global pack parameters and the local parameters.


Ford Global Technologies, LLC

Vehicle's Traction Battery Has Skewness Balanced

What is this invention?

Balancing cells of a traction battery using statistical analysis


There once was a vehicle with a traction battery
that included a plurality of cells.
The controller was programmed to estimate the charge capacities
and determine a standard deviation of the estimated capacities.
The controller was also programmed to determine skewness
and if it exceeded the first threshold,
it would command the balance circuit to discharge one or more cells
when the state of charge was less than the second threshold.

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Balancing cells of a traction battery using statistical analysis

Do you ever find yourself wishing that your traction battery could be better managed? Well, Ford has the solution! Their new Balancing Cells of a Traction Battery using Statistical Analysis system determines how charged each cell is and then makes decisions accordingly. By knowing the standard deviation and skewness of estimated charge capacities, the controller can determine when it is necessary to discharge one or more cells in order to maintain a certain SOC. This system not only saves you money on batteries by ensuring they are always properly maintained, but it also prevents overcharging - another common cause of battery failure. Give this amazing technology a try and see for yourself just how much easier your life can become!

The patent describes a vehicle with a traction battery that includes a plurality of battery cells. The controller is programmed to estimate the charge capacities of the battery cells and determine a standard deviation of the estimated capacities. The controller is also programmed to determine a skewness of the estimated capacities. If the skewness exceeds a first threshold, then the controller commands the balance circuit to discharge one or more of the battery cells when the state of charge (SOC) of the traction battery is less than a second threshold. However, if the skewness is less than the first threshold, then the controller commands the balance circuit to discharge one or more of the battery cells when SOC of traction battery is greater than second threshold.


HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY

Keep your car safe and secure with our new locking lever!

What is this invention?

Vehicle and method of controlling the same


A vehicle's got a lever,
With a magnetic sensor to detect
The angle of movement of the lever.
When you set it for lane changes and drive mode,
The controller will determine
Whether or not to lock the lever!

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Vehicle and method of controlling the same

Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to change lanes, but don't want to take your hands off the wheel? With this new innovation from Hyundai Motor Company, you can keep your hands on the wheel while changing lanes with the help of a lever. The system works by detecting how much angle the lever has moved and then using that information to determine whether or not to lock or unlock the lever. This allows you to stay in control of your vehicle at all times, no matter what lane you are in! If you're ever stuck in traffic and need an easy way out, this is definitely something worth checking out!

A vehicle includes a lever, a magnetic sensor configured to detect an angle of movement of the lever, an inputter configured to receive setting information regarding a lane change and a drive mode from a user, and a controller configured to determine whether to lock the lever based on at least one of the detected angle, the setting information, and the drive mode. If it is determined that the drive mode requires locking of the lever then it is locked. If it is determined that the drive mode does not require locking of the lever then it remains unlocked.


GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

Vehicle Seat Safety System Ejects Blanket Airbag to Protect Passengers

What is this invention?

Blanket airbag with integrated seat belt system


There was once a car seat with a system
That could move between sitting and reclining
In the event of a collision
The airbag would deploy
To protect the head of the passenger

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Blanket airbag with integrated seat belt system

Do you ever feel uneasy when sitting in a vehicle during a collision? Well, GM Global Technology Operations LLC has the solution for you! The company's seat safety system includes a blanket airbag that is stored in an undeployed position and then ejected in the event of a collision. This airbag protects passengers from head injuries by deploying to cover them completely. The system also includes two electromechanical restraint systems - one associated with the seat back and another with the seat bottom - that work together to pull the airbag from its undeployed position to its deployed state. In this way, even if your vehicle sustains significant damage in a collision, your passengers will be safe and protected. If you're looking for an innovative way to improve vehicle safety, this is it!

The vehicle seat safety system includes a vehicle seat that can move between a reclining position and a sitting position. The system also includes an enclosure that stores a blanket airbag in an undeployed position before a collision. In the event of a collision, the enclosure deploys the blanket airbag to cover the passenger's head. The first and second electromechanical restraint systems associated with the seat back and seat bottom respectively pull the blanket airbag from its intermediate position to its deployed position.


Hyundai Motor Company

Get your hybrid electric vehicle's oil usage information in real-time!

What is this invention?

Method for providing engine oil usage information of hybrid electric vehicle


There once was a method for oil use
That determined the driving state of your engine
Then it would update the oil usage distance
So you'd know when it's time to change your engine's oil

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Method for providing engine oil usage information of hybrid electric vehicle

Hyundai has invented a new method for providing engine oil usage information for hybrid electric vehicles. By monitoring driving data and tracking real-time distance traveled, the controller is able to calculate an appropriate time to change the engine oil. This system not only saves drivers time, but also helps keep your vehicle running at its best! With so many options available on the market today, it is important to have a system like this that can help you make informed decisions about your car's maintenance. Give Hyundai's new invention a try - you won't be disappointed!

The method for providing engine oil usage information may include determining a current engine driving state out of a plurality of predetermined driving states of the engine, determining a real-time cumulative distance value corresponding to the determined current engine driving state, updating an oil usage distance using the real-time cumulative distance value, determining an engine oil change time by comparing the updated oil usage distance with a predetermined engine oil change distance, and informing information related to the determined engine oil change time through a notification unit.


The Boeing Company

Wing Stall Compensation Mechanism Restores Wing Surface Airflow Effectiveness

What is this invention?

Dual door stall correction mechanism


There once was a wing stall mechanism
That used an upper door for compensation
With a lower door linked by a 2-bar coupler
Airflow through the flap slot was restored

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Dual door stall correction mechanism

The Boeing Company has released a new wing stall compensation mechanism that will help aircraft avoid common accidents. The system uses an upper door and lower door to pivot about a 2-bar coupler linkage. When the upper door experiences airflow separation from the wing, it contracts the coupler linkage, which in turn causes the lower door to rotate upward from its closed position and restore airflow through the flap slot. This helps prevent wing surface airflow separation and allows for more effective flight. With this new innovation, pilots and drivers can rest assured that they are taking all necessary precautions to keep their aircraft safe!

The wing stall compensation mechanism employs an upper door having forward upper hinge end pivotally coupled to an upper wing structure for rotation about an upper axis and a free aft upper end. A lower door has a free aft lower end and a forward lower hinge end pivotally coupled to a lower wing structure for rotation about a lower axis and a 2-bar coupler linkage is disposed between and pivotally coupled to the upper door and lower door. Downward rotation of the upper door in response to wing surface airflow separation causes contraction of the coupler linkage inducing upward rotation of the lower door from a closed position that inhibits airflow through a flap slot to an open position that enables airflow through the flap slot, to thereby restore wing surface airflow effectiveness.


THE BOEING COMPANY

Thermally Conductive Interface Assembly Moves Between States Based on Temperature

What is this invention?

System and method for shape memory alloy thermal interface


There once was an apparatus,
With a thermally conductive interface.
It had a first component,
Associated with a surface of great might,
And a second component too,
Coupled to the assembly with great care.
When heated up just right,
The shape memory alloy would take flight,
And move one or more components around,
Based on the temperature it found!

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System and method for shape memory alloy thermal interface

The Boeing Company has released a new innovation in the field of thermal interface technology - the shape memory alloy thermal interface. This system allows for quick and easy movement of components between a first state (in which they are in physical contact) and a second state (in which there is a gap). This can be incredibly beneficial in applications where quick and accurate temperature control is necessary, such as with electronic devices or heat-sensitive materials. With this technology, engineers can create interfaces that are both durable and responsive - perfect for high-performance applications. We can't wait to see what other amazing things this company comes up with! An apparatus includes a thermally conductive interface assembly including a first component associated with a first interface surface and a second component associated with a second interface surface. The shape memory alloy component is coupled to the thermally conductive interface assembly and configured to move one or more components of the thermally conductive interface assembly between a first state and a second state based on a temperature of the shape memory alloy component. In the first state, the first interface surface is in physical contact with the second interface surface, and in the second state, a gap is defined between the first interface surface and the second interface surface.


TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA

Spoke Wheel Includes Rim Guard Tip Protectors

What is this invention?

Spoke wheel


There once was a wheel with a spoke,
The outer end was located inoke,
With the inner end out,
It created a pout,
But at least it could still radiate light.

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Spoke wheel

Do you have a spoke wheel in your vehicle? If so, you may be interested in this new innovation from Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha - the spoke wheel. This nifty addition to your car provides an extra level of safety when towing or driving with large loads. The spoke wheel includes a rim for supporting a tire having rim guards, a hub located radially inwardly with respect to the rim, and a plurality of spokes integrally connected with the rim and the hub at outer and inner ends, respectively. These spokes extend radially with respect to the hub, providing plenty of support for your heavy load. In addition to providing stability while driving, the spoke wheel also helps keep your tires properly aligned - preventing them from becoming crooked or off-center during travel. Whether you're using it for recreational purposes or work related transport, we think you'll love this innovative product!

A spoke wheel includes a rim for supporting a tire, a hub located radially inwardly with respect to the rim, and a plurality of spokes integrally connected with the rim and the hub at outer and inner ends, respectively. The spokes extend radially with respect to the hub, and each has an outer end and an inner end. The outer end is located laterally inwardly relative to a tip of a laterally outer rim guard, while the inner end is located laterally outwardly relative to the tip of the laterally outer rim guard. The spokes also have convex portions projecting laterally outwardly and extending in the radial direction. Each convex portion lies in between a lateral position of the laterally outer peripheral edge of the rim and a lateral position of the tip of the laterally outer rim guard.


Ford Global Technologies, LLC

New Method for Separating Blanks from a Stack

What is this invention?

Impulse electrically generated force separation of blanks for the automated destacking of metal sheet


There once was a method for separating blanks
You'd grasp the first one and move it away
Then adhere at least one additional blank
With an impulse electrically generated force
The first blank would be separated from the rest

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Impulse electrically generated force separation of blanks for the automated destacking of metal sheet

Are you tired of manually separating blanks from a stack of metal sheets? With the Impulse system, you can speed up the process by using an electrically generated force. The Impulse system grabs a blank and moves it away from the other blanks, applying enough force to separate it without having to use your hands. This is great for automated operations where accurate and fast separations are important. Plus, by using an EGF generator, you can ensure that even stubborn clumps of metal are easily separated. If precision and efficiency are important to you in your manufacturing process, then the Impulse system is perfect for you!

The patent describes a method for separating blanks from a stack. The method includes grasping a first blank and moving the first blank away from a plurality of blanks. At least one additional blank from the plurality of blanks is adhered to the first blank to form a sub-stack of blanks. An impulse electrically generated force (EGF) is applied to separate the at least one additional blank from the first blank. The first blank may be grasped by a device with a force F1, and the EGF may be less than the force F1.


TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA

Drive Unit Allows Motor for Driving Front Wheels to be Easily Installed

What is this invention?

Drive unit for four-wheel drive vehicle


There once was a drive unit for four-wheelin'
That allowed a motor to be easily installin'
A torque of an engine to a rear wheel axle
Via a transmission and rear propeller shaft was passed through

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Drive unit for four-wheel drive vehicle

Looking for a way to install a motor for driving your front wheels easily? Look no further than the new drive unit available from Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha. This innovative product allows you to easily install a motor for driving your front wheels, without having to remove the axle or disconnect anything else. The torque is transmitted via a transmission and rear propeller shaft, and then transferred over to the front wheel axle via a front propeller shaft. This makes installation incredibly simple - no more messing around with bolts and brackets! In addition, the case of the drive unit houses both the main shaft that transmits torque to the rear propeller shaft, as well as the sub-shaft that transfers output torque to the front propeller shaft. So whether you're looking for an easy way to add power to your four-wheel drive vehicle or just want something stylish and convenient, look no further than this innovative drive unit from Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha.

In a drive unit for four-wheel drive vehicle that allows a motor for driving front wheels to be easily installed, a torque of an engine is transmitted to a rear wheel axle via a transmission and a rear propeller shaft. A front drive unit is disposed between the transmission and the rear wheel axle. A case of the front drive unit houses: a main shaft that transmits to the rear propeller shaft an output torque of the transmission; the front drive motor; and a sub-shaft that is disposed in a position shifted in a vehicle width direction with respect to the main shaft and transmits to the front propeller shaft an output torque of the front drive motor.


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