Canopy Supported By Vehicle Patents (Class 135/88.01)
  • Patent number: 7234753
    Abstract: The invention may be embodied in as a canopy system for a vehicle, such as a golf cart. The invention may include nested support members and/or a housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventors: William T. Held, R. Kent Roberts
  • Patent number: 7159530
    Abstract: A convertible boat top provides a covered area to protect the occupants from environmental concerns such as sun, rain, etc. The convertible top is easily deployed and can be unobtrusively tucked away into a storage area. The top can be provided as original equipment or may be embodied as a kit to adapt an existing boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Taylor Made Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Shearer, Kevin Stancil
  • Patent number: 7131610
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable aircraft hangar assembly for use with aircraft having a series of rotor blades. The assembly is specifically designed to support a canopy over the series of rotor blades. This is accomplished by positioning a series of mounts between the undersurface of the canopy and the rotor assembly of the helicopter. The assembly further includes rotor sleeves which can be slid over the ends of each rotor blade. The rotor sleeves are connected to the canopy by way of a series of adjustment straps and coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Linda Kay Swadling
  • Patent number: 7117879
    Abstract: A rain cover (10) to protect bales of hay (200) within a hay enclosure framework (100) having horizontal top (101) and bottom (102) framework segments connected to one another by vertical support struts (103) wherein, the rain cover (10) includes an elongated waterproof cover member (40) having spaced sleeve elements (42) (42) that captively engage the intermediate portion of a plurality of elongated generally C-shaped support arm members (30) (30) the opposite ends of which are captively and slidably associated with a pair of U-bolt members (20) mounted on the top framework segment (101) of the hay enclosure framework (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventor: Timothy E. Massey
  • Patent number: 7111578
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved watercraft cover, as well as its method of use. In some embodiments, the watercraft cover's support structure is normally irreversibly integrated into or retained by a sheet of the watercraft cover, and the support structure and the sheet are collapsible together for portability without separating the support structure and sheet. The invention also provides for improved retention systems useful for retaining the watercraft cover on the watercraft. Watercraft covers in accordance with the present invention are particularly useful for providing improved portability while preventing water collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Canvas Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Gary C. Brooks, Gregory T. Kassuelke
  • Patent number: 7100662
    Abstract: A golf cart club bag protection device having a folding canopy which allows other accessories, such as coolers and sand bottles, to be mounted underneath. The device has four components: a securing frame (1), an attachment bar (22), canopy support bars (2) and (3) and a canopy (4), (5) and (16). The securing frame (1) is shaped so as to have two vertical legs (21) and a horizontal top bar (23) while the attachment bar (22) has a unique shape so as to raise the pivotal point of the device. Tabs (8) are located at the base of the legs (21) wherein the support bars (2) and (3) are pivotally attached to the securing frame (1). The attachment bar (22) has two C-shaped clamps (6) which are used to secure the securing frame (1) to the golf bag support bar (18). The horizontal top bar (23) has a canopy holder (11) which holds the removably attached canopy (4), (5) and (16), a canopy flap (13) and a canopy fastener (15) in order for the user to keep the golf cart club bag protection device in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Annwil Inc.
    Inventor: Roger F. Nation
  • Patent number: 7059660
    Abstract: An awning apparatus for mounting on the bed of a truck is comprised of a plurality of post assemblies, wherein each post assembly is designed to fit into the posthole of a truck bed, a plurality of collapsible tent pole assemblies inserted into the post assemblies and a flexible sheet member attached to the tent pole assemblies. A pair of cords are arranged such that one cord is attached to the flexible sheet member near the forward corner opposite the forward most post assembly and the other cord is attached to the flexible sheet member near the aft corner opposite the aft post assembly and the other ends of the cords are attached to the sub-frame of the truck, such that the tent pole assemblies extend outboard of the truck bed and are bent into an arched shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Gary Ernest Juola
  • Patent number: 7044145
    Abstract: A mobile shelter comprising a vehicle, a post pivotally attached to the vehicle at one end, and releasably attached at the other end to an umbrella-like collapsible marquee. The marquee comprises a frame, whereby the marquee is attached to the post, a number of articulated brace assemblies pivotally connected to the frame, each brace assembly comprising a number of pivotally interconnected braces. The brace assemblies define a ground-resting end, and a pivot joint pivotally attached to a spreader ring, which in turn slidably engages the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Paul-André Bouchard
  • Patent number: 7032532
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved watercraft cover, as well as its method of use. In some embodiments, the watercraft cover's support structure is normally irreversibly integrated into or retained by a sheet of the watercraft cover, and the support structure and the sheet are collapsible together for portability without separating the support structure and sheet. The invention also provides for improved retention systems useful for retaining the watercraft cover on the watercraft. Watercraft covers in accordance with the present invention are particularly useful for providing improved portability while preventing water collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Canvas Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Gary C. Brooks, Gregory T. Kassuelke
  • Patent number: 7014238
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a unit utilized in the practice of outdoor sports, specifically, but not solely, for stalking and legally hunting animals. Specifically it refers to an automatically and reversibly transformable trailer-to-raised lookout platform from which the animals may be observed for the purpose of filming them, photographing them or hunting them. It is characterized by consisting of a cube-shaped structure with at least one set of wheels and a hitch for connecting it to a towing vehicle, with a roof made up of a platform and an awning which may be raised and lowered by means of telescoping arms located in each corner and activated by an elevation system which raises the platform above the trailer thus forming the floor of an observation and lookout cabin, as well as the awning which at the same time is raised above the platform making between the awning and the platform means for covering the side opening of the cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Jaime Humberto Gutierrez Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7007706
    Abstract: A shelter structure having a pair of end frames and a canopy frame interconnecting the end frames. There are also provided a plurality of adjustable bracing members interconnecting frame members of the canopy frame. The adjustable bracing members may be tensioned during installation of the shelter structure to stabilize the canopy frame against lateral or transverse forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Weatherstopper Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Graham Allan Pinnell, Daniel Robert Flynn, Alan Ned Netherway
  • Patent number: 6907952
    Abstract: A bicycle having a cruise control system and various components designed to prevent discomfort and fatigue are disclosed. The cruise control bicycle preferably includes a flexion handlebar, a parallel brake lever, a removable bicycle backrest, and an adjustable sun protector that attaches to the backrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Diane Drayden Jones
  • Patent number: 6854475
    Abstract: A panel for use in a helicopter protection system which includes a cover made from a flexible sheet material, a safety shear strip which extends between two sections of the cover, and first and second attachment devices on respective first and second edges of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Johan Herman Slabbert
  • Patent number: 6820569
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for a cloth or canvas-like top for a boat, having latching members which retain the collapsible frame to a plurality of mounting brackets secured to the boat frame. The latching members allow for the boat frame to be quickly orientated in either an open position, providing protection to the occupants of the boat, a closed position, used to store the frame on the boat when not in use, or a travel position, securing the boat cover frame in a manner sufficient to allow movement of the boat on a trailer. In changing the position of the frame, the latching member may be disconnected from the mounting brackets without the use of tools or removable parts that may be lost or misplaced. Additionally, the latching members include a pair of wings including retaining ridges which allow a latching of frame members to one another, securing frame members not in use during various configurations of the collapsible frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Bennington Marine LLC
    Inventors: Jeremiah S. Warfel, Joseph L. Englehaupt, Jerry L. Scott, Bradley R. Fishburn
  • Patent number: 6811207
    Abstract: A motor vehicle (2) including a door assembly (4) configured to provide support for a canopy assembly (12) attached to the door assembly. The canopy assembly includes a canopy (18) and at least one canopy support member (20 and 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Textron Automotive Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Dalpizzol, Keith Riha
  • Patent number: 6805396
    Abstract: The invention is an apparatus and methods for covering the rear bag compartment of a golf cart. The invention is configured for attachment to a support frame of a golf cart, wherein the support frame supports a hard roof top for the golf cart. The invention includes a stationary frame member, a movable frame member, and a cover. The stationary frame member is configured for mounting to the support frame of the golf cart. The movable frame member is configured for mounting to the stationary frame member, and further configured to pivotably rotate over a portion of the rear compartment of the golf cart. The cover is configured for mounting to the movable frame member so that when the movable frame member rotates over a portion of the rear compartment of the golf cart, the cover covers a portion of the rear compartment of the golf cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Carolina Covertech, Inc.
    Inventors: Dorian Thurston True, Marion Lee Jones
  • Publication number: 20040187902
    Abstract: A portable, disposable vehicle shelter is provided. It comprises a bag or body-portion, large enough to fit over and contain the vehicle; and a mechanism to pull the bottom edge of the bag tightly around the bottom of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Goldsmith
  • Patent number: 6789495
    Abstract: A self-supporting boat cover includes a cover member having a plurality of sleeves that extends substantially longitudinally from a bow end of the cover member to a stern end. A corresponding plurality of flexible poles are insertable in the sleeves through either end of the sleeves and are releasably securable in the sleeves. The self-supporting boat cover is easily installed and inexpensive to manufacture. Additionally, the flexible poles can be readily disassembled into a plurality of pole sections into a compact and easily transportable configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Richard M. Brower, Jason Pajonk-Taylor
  • Patent number: 6749151
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable aircraft hangar assembly for use with aircraft having a series of rotor blades. The assembly is specifically designed to support a canopy over the series of rotor blades. This is accomplished by positioning a series of mounts between the undersurface of the canopy and the rotor assembly of the helicopter. The assembly further includes rotor sleeves which can be slid over the ends of each rotor blade. The rotor sleeves are connected to the canopy by way of a series of adjustment straps and coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Rolin Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Linda K. Ross
  • Patent number: 6725871
    Abstract: A portable cover unit includes a fabric cover supported by a flexible frame. The fabric cover has sleeves that secure members of the flexible frame, which is constructed with primary frame members extending in a first direction and at least one secondary frame member extending in a second substantially perpendicular direction between the primary frame members. A plurality of connectors are attachable to an object to which the portable cover unit is installed, each including an aperture sized to receive the primary frame members. Structure is also provided for securing the fabric cover to the object to which the portable cover unit is installed. The portable cover unit can be mounted to any open portion of a vehicle such as a boat, golf cart or the like or can be used independently. The structure can be readily disassembled and stored in a compact package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Shearer, Kevin Stancil, Terry Burk
  • Patent number: 6725807
    Abstract: The Pet Canopy of the present invention is designed to provide a convenient and compact shelter for pets kept in the bed of a pickup truck. To attain this, the present invention essentially comprises a canopy assembly having a spring-ded roll installed along the top rear width of a pickup truck cab, and a frame assembly mounted in a pickup truck bed. The canopy assembly is stretched across and fastened to the frame assembly, and is easily undone and retracted around the spring-loaded rod for stowing. The Pet Canopy of the present invention may also include side panels to provide additional protection from wind or rain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Cheryl A. Tapia
  • Patent number: 6692058
    Abstract: A golf cart canopy attachment includes a shield which has a pair of guide channels formed on a top surface. A raised portion or dormer is formed between the channels. The channels engage corresponding guide channels in a golf cart roof to enable the shield to slide with respect to the roof. A pair of locking grooves are formed on the shield for preventing further movement in either a fully extended or fully retracted position. Stop blocks are provided on side walls of the shield to prevent further outward movement of the shield in the fully open position. A rod extends from an underside of the shield from which a pair of curtains extends. The curtains are moved along the rod on opposite sides to be connected together when the shield is in the fully opened position. When a shield is in a closed position, the curtains are pulled back to stored positions and fastened onto roof supports at the rear of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Micco
  • Patent number: 6672241
    Abstract: A collapsible frame for a cloth or canvas-like top for a boat, having latching members which retain the collapsible frame to a plurality of mounting brackets secured to the boat frame. The latching members allow for the boat frame to be quickly orientated in either an open position, providing protection to the occupants of the boat, a closed position, used to store the frame on the boat when not in use, or a travel position, securing the boat cover frame in a manner sufficient to allow movement of the boat on a trailer. In changing the position of the frame, the latching member may be disconnected from the mounting brackets without the use of tools or removable parts that may be lost or misplaced. Additionally, the latching members include a pair of wings including retaining ridges which allow a latching of frame members to one another, securing frame members not in use during various configurations of the collapsible frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Bennington Marine, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremiah S. Warfel, Joseph L. Engelhaupt, Jerry L. Scott, Bradley R. Fishburn
  • Patent number: 6615549
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile double decked vehicular performance stage which is equipped with a variety of safety devices for use in transporting steel orchestra players and instruments during live performances in parades, carnivals and other events in which the musicians are required to continue to play their instruments while moving along with the crowd. In practice, the stage comprises two identically sized platform surfaces, the lower surface or deck rests on ground engaging wheels and includes steering, brake and tow bar mechanisms to facilitate the movement of the stage. The upper deck is situated above the lower deck in elevated parallel alignment with the lower deck and is secured and maintained in that position by supports which are between the upper and lower decks. Both the upper and lower decks are equipped with safety devices to protect the musicians from injury while the vehicle is in motion, as well as musical stands for holding the musical instruments in place on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventors: John W. Hodge, Wilbert Gomez
  • Patent number: 6601904
    Abstract: A retractable awning for attachment to a golf cart is provided. The awning is comprised of a framework having a plurality of U-shaped rib members and a fabric cover. The U-shaped rib members have ends terminating at a common pivot point to allow respective relative movement to move the awning between an extended deployed position and a retracted closed position over a rear compartment of the golf cart. Each successively adjacent rib member is dimensioned slightly less than its preceding rib member to allow nesting of all the rib members in a common plane so that the framework can lie substantially flat in its retracted position. Sleeve members for receiving the rib members are provided on the underneath side of the awning cover to allow the fabric to deploy and retract over the framework without binding. The framework is mounted to the cart through one of several disclosed arrangements including a transition plate extending between the forward rib member and a top mounting bracket in one arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Covered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Winkler
  • Patent number: 6584926
    Abstract: A T-top apparatus for a boat is described in which the rigid framework of the T-top apparatus supports a built-in boat helm seat, seat backrest and other optional attachments. The rigid framework can be secured by bolts to the boat deck only, providing a convenient and effective manner in which to mount the T-top apparatus without requiring additional mounting hardware to fix the T-top structure to either the seat or center console helm. In an optional configuration, the T-top apparatus is formed in two sections with an upper section bearing the canvas roof and the lower section having the boat helm seat mounted therein. The upper section could be pivotally mounted to the lower section to permit the upper section to be pivotally lowered into a lowered configuration in which the overall height of the T-top apparatus is substantially at the same height of the boat helm seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: G. G. Schmitt & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald T. Schmitt, William C. Becker
  • Publication number: 20030111101
    Abstract: A structure for mounting a rigid T-Top on the surface of a boat deck is disclosed. The structure is easily customizable to almost any boat configuration. A method for mounting the structure is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: R. Stevens Tull
  • Patent number: 6547312
    Abstract: A retractable covering for attachment to a golf cart is provided. The covering is comprised of a framework having a plurality of pivotal and nestable U-shaped rib members and a fabric cover that enables the awning to move between an extended deployed position and a retracted closed position over a rear compartment of the golf cart. The framework is mounted to the cart through one of several disclosed arrangements including a transition plate extending between the forward rib member and a top mounting bracket in one arrangement. The covering comprises a gathering flap that is adapted to surround a portion of the cover as the cover portion is retracted from use. The gathering flap has an indicia area exposed to view from behind the golf cart. The indicia area has indicia thereon that is visible from the rear of the golf cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Covered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Winkler
  • Publication number: 20030041890
    Abstract: A detachable canopy-like cover intended to be used on motor scooters, which can protect cyclists from the elements and provide increased stability for a motor scooter. The cover's lightweight construction is water-resistant yet sturdy enough to be used on the highway. The cover includes a non-shattering molded front shield that protects a cyclist and its passenger from oncoming flying debris. The All Weather Cycle Protector effectively serves to reduce intense temperatures cyclists are exposed to while on a motor scooter. The frame for the cover is constructed of a lightweight material that can easily be attached to the front and back frame of a motor scooter. Clamps are used to hold the frame firmly in place on the under portion of a motor scooter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Andrew Wilson
  • Publication number: 20030029487
    Abstract: A portable shelter in the form of a containerized tent having a hinged, folding and telescoping overhead support structure that mounted, stored and supported within a transportable container, wherein the tent box is capable of mounting on a variety of on and off-road vehicles, wherein the shelter is quickly and easily erected and dismantled by one individual, and wherein the full length of the tent is securely supported to prevent structural failure during utilization thereof, thereby enabling camping in remote locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: James E. Kight
  • Publication number: 20030015232
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, the portable carport 10 comprises small diameter longitudinal members 14, large diameter longitudinal members 15, fixed lateral members 20, small diameter vertical legs 25, large diameter vertical legs 26, waterproof covering material 27, anchoring members 31, t-joints 40, and flexible removable rods 50. All components are assembled so as to shelter a typical vehicle 12.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6453621
    Abstract: A wind protection system for covering a structure. The system, which is electronically activated, comprises primarily a pair of extendable poles located on opposite sides of the structure, and a sheet of flexible netting stored on a reel. Cables attached to the netting pull it up and over the tops of the extended poles when the system is activated and when the poles are retracted, pull the netting down and over the structure to form a protective tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventors: Walter H. Bundy, Jr., Lucas Smith
  • Patent number: 6439150
    Abstract: A shade cover assembly adapted to be carried on a tower above the cockpit area of a pleasure boat, said shade cover assembly including a generally opaque cover, a cover fixture adapted to be carried by said tower for containing the cover in a rolled up state when in the retracted position and a frame for tensioning said cover when said cover is withdrawn from said fixture and is extended in a generally horizontal position above the cockpit area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Murphy, Donald M. Erb, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020092552
    Abstract: A retractable awning for a recreational vehicle is provided wherein the awning is stored behind a pivoting door that closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle when the awning is not deployed over a slide-out unit. The pivoting door is adjacent the awning and the pivoting door closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle with the awning enclosed in its side mounted compartment. With the retractable awning completely behind the plane defining the side of the recreational vehicle and protected by a locking door, the awning does not add any additional unwanted width to the recreational vehicle and is protected from unfurling during transport. An automatic locking mechanism is provided for ensuring that the door remains closed during transportation. Further, a debris clearing mechanism is preferably installed adjacent the spool which collects the retractable awning as it retracts, thereby cleaning the awning of debris prior to its withdrawal into the compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Glenn Jones
  • Patent number: 6357461
    Abstract: A sunshade has a shade and at least two supports, with each support having a second end that is coupled to the shade at spaced-apart locations thereof. The sunshade also has a connector coupled to the first end of each support, the connector having a central portion that has a groove, and a leaf for coupling the first end of each support. The leaf is hingedly connected to the central portion by an integral thin section and has a locking member fitted inside the groove to hold the leaf at a fixed position with respect to the central portion. Each support of the sunshade can also have an adjustable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Quantum Auto (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Lun Chai, Tsang To Chai
  • Patent number: 6349666
    Abstract: An articulated boat top assembly is attached to a conventional boat and operable to be moved between an extended position and a retracted position. The articulated boat top assembly includes a boat top that is secured to the boat via two articulated frame members. The articulated frame members include a series of skeletal components that are pivotally connected to each other. The skeletal components of the articulated boat top assembly include a base member, a pair of middle arms, and a pair of upper arms. The base member includes a pair of legs rigidly attached to the boat deck. The legs of the base member are additionally connected to each other via a stabilizing arm that reinforces the position of the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph A. Hastings
  • Patent number: 6343613
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible sleeper apparatus for providing a comfortable and protective space for truck drivers to sleep when the truck doesn't have a conventional sleeper. The portable and collapsible sleeper apparatus includes a track assembly including first and second elongate track members being spaced apart and having first and second ends; and also includes a cover support assembly including a first support member being attached to the first ends of the first and second elongate track member, and also includes a second support member being movably mounted upon the first and second elongate track members; and further includes a cover assembly including a cover member having first and second ends and being securely attached to the first and second support members; and also includes a crank assembly being movably mounted upon the first and second elongate track members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: George Y. Yasutomi
  • Patent number: 6343441
    Abstract: In a roof construction (10) with several erected support arches carrying a tentered roof skin (15), both ends of which support arches are held with a fixed distance to one another in the carrying state, each support arch (11)is constituted by several sections (12; 12a, 12b) each connected to one another via joints (13), where a lock is assigned to each joint (13), which limits the unfolding of neighboring sections (12a, 12b) to about their straightened position. In the carrying state of the support arch (11) all its joints (13) are bridged underneath by tensioned pulling connections (16), which engage on both sides of the bridged joint (13) on a section (12a, 12b). Furthermore, in the region of each joint (13)a spacer (19)is provided acting between the support arch (11) and the corresponding pulling connection (16), which spacer (19) directs the pulling connection inwards past the connecting line defined by the two points (18a, 18b) of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Merz Saulter Zimmermann GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Günter Merz, Sabine Sauter
  • Patent number: 6327993
    Abstract: An overhead storage system for a boat bimini top comprising an elongated unitized backing material. The backing material has a front end, a rear end, a left and right side, a top surface, and bottom surface. Attached to the bottom surface of the backing material is a series of storage pockets. The storage pockets are of varying sizes and are generally rectangular in shape and have a hinged lid. Along the bottom left and right side of the backing material is an edge channel housing a telescoping pole. The telescoping poles provide support and structure to the backing material and storage pockets. At the bow end of each telescoping pole is a V-shaped bend, which generally conforms to the contour of a bimini shade cover. Mounted perpendicular to the telescoping poles and below the backing material, are several spreader bars. On the top side of the backing material are a series of support battens and batten sleeves which keep the backing material from sagging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: David A. Richens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6290285
    Abstract: A top rail assembly (20) utilizes a support brace (22) and an awning mount groove (26) recessed in a rail body (24) to provide a strong top rail assembly (20) without using undue space or degrading aesthetics. The brace (22) extends between a side wall brace tab (72) and a roof brace tab (64) to reinforce the top rail body (24) and define a wire chase opening (76) between the brace (22) and a tansition section (74) of the body (24). The groove (26) is recessed into the rail body (24) and is defined by two opposed legs (80, 82) and a bottom segment (84) which are integral to the rail body (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Sooner Trailer Manufacturing Co. Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. McCormack
  • Patent number: 6263893
    Abstract: An adjustable multi-purpose wagon canopy used to shade wagon occupants from the sun. The wagon canopy comprises: support members which are releasably connected to a wagon using mounting bracket assemblies rigidly fixed to the wagon; and a cover which is attached to the support members using a variety of attachment methods. The cover is adjustable both in length and in width while the support members are adjustable in height. The wagon canopy can be attached to wagons of differing sizes and can also be transplanted from a wagon to locations that have a sandy or soft ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventors: Carolyn Spinella, Marnie Colasante
  • Patent number: 6260909
    Abstract: Disclosed is an awning assembly for a recreational vehicle. The awning assembly includes an awning that is configured to be extended from a sidewall of the recreational vehicle to provide shade. A rug is removably mounted to one edge of the awning. In use, the rug is removed from the awning and positioned on the ground below the awning to serve as a ground covering. When not being used, the rug is attached to the awning and stored with the awning in an awning housing to save space. In another embodiment, the awning assembly comprises a rug housing that is configured to be moved between a storage configuration and an extended configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Alfa Leisure, Inc.
    Inventors: Johnnie Robert Crean, Stephen B. Wishek
  • Patent number: 6260566
    Abstract: A canopy for a child's wagon including a canopy support structure selectively removably secured to the wagon and extending upwardly therefrom. A canopy is supported on the support structure for shading a child positioned in the passenger seating area of the wagon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventors: Shawn H. LaFave, Laura M. LaFave
  • Patent number: 6257261
    Abstract: A canopy top for use with a vehicle having an open passenger compartment and carrying equipment. The canopy top has a frame adaptable for being secured to the vehicle and supported above the passenger compartment. A canopy overlies the frame. Means formed integral with the frame for securing equipment to the top is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Mitchel B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6227557
    Abstract: The invention relates to a protective roof (1) for bicycles comprising a frame (2) and a covering (3) impermeable to rainwater and/or UV-radiation. The frame (2) comprises an elastic tube (4) bent into the form of a spoon-shaped loop, the two tube ends (5a, 5b) being held in the region of the back wheel hub (6) and the end of the frame (2) being adjusted to a predetermined inclination and/or height via a tensioning cable (9) fixed in the region of the handlebar (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Claus-Michael Mayr
    Inventor: Andre Perret
  • Patent number: 6224125
    Abstract: A top rail assembly (20) utilizes a support brace (22) and an awning mount groove (26) recessed in a rail body (24) to provide a strong top rail assembly (20) without using undue space or degrading aesthetics. The brace (22) extends between a side wall brace tab (72) and a roof brace tab (64) to reinforce the top rail body (24) and define a wire chase opening (76) between the brace (22) and a transition section (74) of the body (24). The groove (26) is recessed into the rail body (24) and is defined by two opposed legs (80, 82) and a bottom segment (84) which are integral to the rail body (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Sooner Trailer Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Robert B. McCormack
  • Patent number: 6223760
    Abstract: A cover for shielding an automobile from radiation from the sun comprising a sheet with a flap having one edge secured to the sheet at a location that permits positioning the cover over the roof of the car with the flap extending through a side window into the interor of the car and with the flap against the outside surface of the car. When the car window is rolled up, the edge of the window clamps the cover to the window frame of the car thereby preventing removal of the cover by a thief.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Mark Hughey
  • Patent number: 6220647
    Abstract: A retractable awning for attachment to a golf cart is provided. The awning is comprised of a framework having a plurality of U-shaped rib members and a fabric cover. The U-shaped rib members have ends terminating at a common pivot point to allow respective relative movement to move the awning between an extended deployed position and a retracted closed position over a rear compartment of the golf cart. Each successively adjacent rib member is dimensioned slightly less than its preceding rib member to allow nesting of all the rib members in a common plane so that the framework can lie substantially flat in its retracted position. Sleeve members for receiving the rib members are provided on the underneath side of the awning cover to allow the fabric to deploy and retract over the framework without binding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: David R. Winkler
  • Patent number: 6216714
    Abstract: The Golf Cart Club Cover mounted on the rear of a golf cart protects a golfers bag and clubs from the rain. Rotating it open for protection creates energy to automatically rewind and store it adjacent to the rear roof edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Kelvin F. Tucker
  • Patent number: 6202664
    Abstract: An awning apparatus for mounting on a truck includes a plurality of post assemblies wherein each post assembly includes a bottom post end portion adapted to fit into a post hole in the truck and includes a riser portion connected to the post end portion. A locking hinge assembly is connected to the riser portion. An awning support member is connected to the locking hinge assembly, and a first flexible sheet member is connected to the plurality of awning support members. The awning apparatus can be used in two modes. With the first mode, for shading regions exterior to the truck, chairs can be placed under the first flexible sheet member, and persons sitting in those chairs can be shaded from sun and rain. With the second mode, for shading regions on the truck itself, persons can sit on the truck bed and be shaded from sun and rain. The locking hinge assemblies permit the first flexible sheet member to be locked into either mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventors: John M. Shenton, Jr., John M. Shenton, III