Jason P Piotrowski

US Patent:

7823916, Nov 2, 2010

Filed:

Jun 25, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/145649

Inventors:

Jason A. Piotrowski - Troy MI, US

Assignee:

GM Global Technology Operations, Inc. - Detroit MI

International Classification:

B60R 21/16

US Classification:

280731

Abstract:

A driver-side supplemental inflatable restraint system is provided. The restraint system includes a steering wheel assembly configured to attach inside of a vehicle passenger compartment, proximate to the driver's seat. The steering wheel assembly includes an annular wheel rim attached to a wheel hub. The wheel rim and hub each define a cavity with an opening. A primary inflatable cushion is operable to transition through the hub opening from a non-expanded state, stowed inside the hub cavity, to an expanded state, inflated outside the hub cavity. A secondary inflatable cushion is operable to transition through the rim opening from a non-expanded state, stowed inside the rim cavity, to an expanded state, inflated outside the rim cavity. At least one inflator is in fluid communication with the primary and secondary cushions, and operable to selectively dispense inflation fluid thereto, and thereby transition the cushions from respective non-expanded states to expanded states.

US Patent:

7766388, Aug 3, 2010

Filed:

Jan 18, 2006

Appl. No.:

11/334035

Inventors:

Paul W. Marino - Detroit MI, US
Jason Piotrowski - Chesterfield Township MI, US

International Classification:

B62D 21/00
B62D 24/00

US Classification:

280781, 280785, 280797

Abstract:

One embodiment of a modular base assembly comprises a frame and leveler assemblies used to support a vehicle model. The frame has a frame segment with several parts including a cross-support and a side-support having a surface defining a plurality of holes where model-making components can be attached and unattached thereto. Leveler assemblies level the base assembly, and each can include a wheel hub locator that adjustably fixes a hub along a longitudinal horizontal, a vertical, and a lateral horizontal direction. Another embodiment comprises a motorized vehicle undercarriage that carries a frame. The frame has a platform with a top surface defining a plurality of holes in the form of a matrix. Model-making components can be attached and unattached thereto.