Patents by Inventor Gerald J. Carey, II

Gerald J. Carey, II has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5729194
    Abstract: Various configurations of components to provide for either informing an operator of a vehicle of relative positions of the vehicle and a stationary trailer during a backing procedure or informing the operator of an arrival at a hitchable position during the backing procedure. Three general embodiments are disclosed which include use of a magnetically activated switch, use of an autofocus assembly and use of a light reflective arrangement. Several possible combinations of the separate embodiments are explained which enhance the function of the assemblies to ensure proper positioning of the vehicle relative to the stationary trailer. Explanations of each embodiment are provided along with numerous variations to each. Each of the embodiments rely upon a component, or group of components, located on the vehicle which require a power source to operate. When it is a requirement that a component be placed upon the stationary trailer, that component does not require a source of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventors: Dan E. Spears, Gerald J. Carey, II