Carrier Having Structure To Facilitate Loading (e.g., Rollers, Tracks, Angled Sides, Etc.) Patents (Class 224/310)
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Patent number: 9162629Abstract: The present invention relates to an extendable vehicle rack arrangement (10) comprising a first and a second load carrier foot (3, 4) and comprising a stationary part (12) attached to said first and second load carrier foot (3, 4) and a displaceable part (11). The stationary part (12) is pivotally connected to at least one of the load carrier feet (3, 4). The extendable vehicle rack arrangement (10) is advantageously an extendable vehicle top rack arrangement. The present invention provides for a solution which effectively reduces or neutralizes the intrinsic forces which can be imparted to an extendable vehicle rack arrangement during or after attachment to a vehicle, thereby providing an easier extension of the displaceable part (11).Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2011Date of Patent: October 20, 2015Assignee: THULE SWEDEN ABInventor: Anders Lundgren
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Patent number: 8998047Abstract: One possible embodiment of the invention could be a hitch-mounted telescopic rack and its operation, the rack could be comprised of a vertical telescopic tube assembly having an inner tube movably received within a hollow outer tube, the hollow outer tube having a hitch attachment end while the inner tube has an attachment end that connects to a top tube assembly that movably supports one or more rollers perpendicularly to the vertical telescopic tube assembly; wherein the hitch attachment end is reversibly received by a trailer hitch of an automotive vehicle to vertically orient the vertical telescopic tube assembly and place the rollers in a horizontal position distal from the trailer hitch, the one or more rollers moving an object relative to a rear edge of a top of the automotive vehicle as well as supporting the rear overhanging portion of the object that is placed on the top.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2014Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Inventors: Michael Thomas DeMers, James Kevin Redmond
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Patent number: 8991889Abstract: An ergonomic ladder rack assembly mounted on the roof of a topper for a pick-up truck bed or on the roof of a cargo van, the topper having a ladder rack assembly mounted thereon, the ladder rack assembly designed to lift, move and return a ladder load between a stowed position atop the roof of the topper or van and a deployed position alongside of the vehicle. The roof of the topper or van has recessed areas formed therein for containing components of the ladder rack to thereby lower the height profile of the combination.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventors: Avraham Y. Levi, Francois Boisvert
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Publication number: 20150069101Abstract: Provided are powered roof racks for tall vehicles, configured for cargo loading or unloading near to and parallel to the ground. The cargo is lifted to or lowered from roof height using an electric drive. Cargo motion comprises two separate essentially linear motions. The motion on and off of the roof is linear and essentially horizontal. The motion between roof height and the near ground level loading/unloading position is linear and near vertical. During all operations the load remains parallel to the ground. The majority of cargo load is supported on the ground during loading/unloading. All parts may be stored in a low profile roof mounted package when not in use, and ensures that setup and teardown uses a minimal number of easy to execute steps.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventor: Kenneth Lee Presley
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Patent number: 8915411Abstract: Utility rack attachments for rack systems used with automobiles, trailers, or stationary objects are used to conveniently transport or store the same. The invented rack system is basically comprised of an easily mountable and slidable assembly unit designed for quick locking to a rail mounted to a vehicle or trailer that is in tow by a vehicle. In a typical setup a quick locking and unlocking assembly unit is mounted to each of two rails that are separated by a distance that is spanned by the load it is carrying or by a platform which carries the load. The slidable and fixable nature of a complete assembly enables a person to quickly mount and dismount it to a rail and position and reposition a load at any location along the rail thus making it very versatile to accommodate a range of objects to be transported.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2012Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Inventor: Eric Steckel
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Publication number: 20140252056Abstract: A roller load assisted roof-top carrier for elongate articles such as kayak boats. The roof-top carrier includes a space frame having at least a U-shaped portion, the legs of which are each slidingly mountable to each of a front and back cross bar of a vehicular roof rack. In this manner, the space frame translates unitarily relative to the vehicular roof rack. Forward and back cross members are provided that are mounted upon the space frame, the front cross member carrying a pair of kayak saddles, each faced with a friction inducing material for discouraging slippage between a secured kayak and the space frame and the back cross member carrying a pair of guide panels, each faced with a slip inducing material for encouraging slippage between a kayak being loaded on or unloaded from the space frame. A roller can be mounted on a back portion of the space frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2014Publication date: September 11, 2014Applicant: THULE SWEDEN ABInventors: Frederick G. MURRAY, Kevin W. HARRIS
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Publication number: 20140205419Abstract: A sports equipment vehicle for transporting sporting equipment is disclosed. The rack comprises of a plurality of support sections that allow the equipment carrying member to translate from the top of the vehicle roof to the side of the vehicle. Each support section has a bottom member, top equipment holding member, a first leg member, a second leg member, and a strut connected to the bottom member and the top equipment holding member. The support sections move from a transport position that has the top equipment holding member substantially parallel to the vehicle's roof to a loading position where the top equipment holding member is on a substantially inclined plane with a portion below the vehicle's roof. The first and second leg members act as a radius bar for an arc-like motion of the top equipment holding member and the strut assists with the racks movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2013Publication date: July 24, 2014Inventors: Alicia Svaldi, Heidi Hostetter, Thomas Thorson, Thomas Svaldi, Dennis Svaldi, Katheryn Svaldi
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Patent number: 8777074Abstract: One possible embodiment of the invention could be a hitch-mounted telescopic rack and its operation, the rack could be comprised of a vertical telescopic tube assembly having an inner tube movably received within a hollow outer tube, the hollow outer tube having a hitch attachment end while the inner tube has an attachment end that connects to a top tube assembly that movably supports one or more rollers perpendicularly to the vertical telescopic tube assembly; wherein the hitch attachment end is reversibly received by a trailer hitch of an automotive vehicle to vertically orient the vertical telescopic tube assembly and place the rollers in a horizontal position distal from the trailer hitch, the one or more rollers moving an object relative to a rear edge of a top of the automotive vehicle as well as supporting the rear overhanging portion of the object that is placed on the top.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Inventors: Michael Thomas DeMers, James Kevin Redmond
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Patent number: 8733604Abstract: A roller load assisted roof-top carrier for elongate articles such as kayak boats. The roof-top carrier includes a space frame having at least a U-shaped portion, the legs of which are each slidingly mountable to each of a front and back cross bar of a vehicular roof rack. In this manner, the space frame translates unitarily relative to the vehicular roof rack. Forward and back cross members are provided that are mounted upon the space frame, the front cross member carrying a pair of kayak saddles, each faced with a friction inducing material for discouraging slippage between a secured kayak and the space frame and the back cross member carrying a pair of guide panels, each faced with a slip inducing material for encouraging slippage between a kayak being loaded on or unloaded from the space frame. A roller is mounted on a back bight portion of the space frame, the roller being located at a fixed spacing with respect to the front and back cross members.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2007Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Thule Sweden ABInventors: Frederick G. Murray, Kevin W. Harris
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Publication number: 20140131404Abstract: In order to create a movable roof rack for motor vehicles, wherein the roof rack has a support device for receiving a load, in particular for receiving a roof box, and wherein the support device is movable between a travel position and a loading position, at least one profiled support section (115, 116, 215, 216) is provided in order to move the support device between the travel position and the loading position, and the at least one profiled support section (115, 116, 215, 216) is arranged on a vehicle pillar (101, 102, 201, 202) of a motor vehicle and is designed to support the support device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2014Publication date: May 15, 2014Inventor: Serle ESPIG
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Publication number: 20140097219Abstract: The invention is a ventilated vehicle roof rack carrier such as a cargo box for transporting items such as athletic equipment or other personal items on top of a car. The cargo box has a rigid housing shell. The housing has a top shell and a bottom shell. The top shell and the bottom shell are connected together by one or more hinges. The top shell further has at least two opposing vents for drawing air into the housing shell body and allowing air to exit the housing shell body. The cargo box also has a means in communication with the housing for attaching the housing to the vehicle. The means for attaching is a rail system with engagement means for attaching the rail system to the vehicle. The rail system further has a first articulating rail and a second articulating rail oriented in parallel relationship to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: Braden A. Reiber
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Patent number: 8646667Abstract: A roof rack device includes a base with a first through hole disposed on a car roof and two carrier members with a second through hole disposed on the base. The base is provided with pin and control members. The control member has a first buckle portion and a cam which pushes the pin member into the first and second through holes or out of the second through hole. The outer end of each carrier member has a lock seat with a second buckle portion. When the first and second buckle portions are engaged, the cam keeps the pin member in the first and second through holes and the carrier members are retracted. When the first and second buckle portions are disengaged, the cam acts on the pin member to disengage from the second through hole and the carrier members can be extended for dismounting the articles.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: BETO Engineering and Marketing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Lopin Wang
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Patent number: 8640933Abstract: A cargo rack secured to the roof of the vehicle wherein a portion of the cargo rack is operable to be extended beyond the rear roof-line of the vehicle and subsequently placed in an angular position with respect to the roof of the vehicle in order to facilitate the loading of objects within the cargo rack. The cargo rack further includes a first support rail and a second support rail that are securely mounted to the roof of the vehicle. A luggage frame is movably secured to the first support rail and second support rail. The first support rail and the second support rail further include extension members that facilitate the rearward movement of the luggage frame. A front lock is integrally secured to the first support rail and second support rail and is operable to maintain the luggage frame in a secure position. A rear lock is further included and is adjacent to and generally perpendicular with the luggage frame and functions to engage a portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: Levi McCray
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Patent number: 8616424Abstract: Carrier racks including an elongate base member, a pivot mechanism mounted to the base member and configured to rotate relative to the base member, and a frame coupled to the pivot mechanism for supporting cargo, wherein the pivot mechanism is configured to pivot the frame between a loading position and a stowed position for transport, a first support member of the frame being oriented substantially horizontal in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Inventors: Wally Byers, Shawn McEuen
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Patent number: 8511525Abstract: A ladder rack incorporating one or more roller assemblies clamped or otherwise affixed to the side rails of the ladder rack that are made to serve as a fulcrum for facilitating the loading and unloading of ladders onto and from a roof rack mounted atop a cargo van or similar work vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2012Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Inventor: Avraham Y. Levi
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Patent number: 8496146Abstract: A convertible roof rack is provided that is generally comprised of a light bar and a roof rack that is spaced from the roof of a vehicle. The roof rack is also rotatably interconnected to a support structure associated with the rear of the vehicle such that it is capable of moving from a first position of use adjacent to the roof to a second position of use away from the roof where the light bar remains interconnected to the vehicle adjacent to the windshield. As such, electrical connections associated with the light bar remain intact when the roof rack is rotated away from the roof.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Intelligent Designs 2000 Corp.Inventor: Paul Badillo
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Patent number: 8430286Abstract: An accessory rack for transporting objects such as small boats on an ATV or pickup truck includes a pair of upright posts, one mounted on a front rack support at a front platform and the other at a rear platform. Each of the posts is connected to a base member secured to a rack support, and cross members with upturned ends for receiving a boat are connected to tops of the posts. An elongated beam is connected to the cross members at both ends of the beam. Square steel tubing is used for most of the structure, with sizes being varied to allow overlap and adjusting length of components. Racks for use in pickup trucks may be bolted to the pickup bed.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Inventor: Jefferson L. Patrick
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Publication number: 20130062378Abstract: A rack assembly that is used to load and unload heavy or bulky material on an overhead rack of a truck, van, trailer, or similar vehicle. The rack assembly may include a base assembly, which may be sized to fit a range of vehicles, trailers, and the like. The rack assembly includes a movable part which rolls down over the side of the vehicle and allows improved access to simplify the loading and unloading operations used to secure any material to the rack. The movable part may include a manual handle, or a power assist mechanism, to assist in loading and unloading operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: Milton C. Hobbs
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Patent number: 8322580Abstract: The present invention is a retractable cargo carrying device that can be mounted on the top of a trailer such as a horse trailer. The device is provided underneath with a telescoping rail system that secures to the top of the trailer and to a storage box of the device. This telescoping rail system allows the storage box to be lowered near to the ground so that items can be easily placed in the storage box from the ground. Once the storage box is loaded, it can then be retracted back onto the top of the trailer for transport. The storage box has a pivoting attachment to the telescoping rail system that maintains the storage box in a level position at all times, even when lowering and retracting the box relative to the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Inventor: Billy Hamilton
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Publication number: 20120301265Abstract: A mounting apparatus 10 is provided for assisting in sliding a kayak up onto a roof rack. The mounting apparatus comprises a vehicle mounting portion 11, and a cradling portion 12. Vehicle mounting portion 11 comprises a central support portion 13, and a pair of oppositely extending suction assemblies 14. Each suction assembly 14 comprises a lower flexible cup like foot portion 15 which attaches to the vehicle, and an upper backing member 16 which is made of metal. An operating member 17 is attached to each backing member 16 and comprises an over centre cam like lever 18 which can be moved between a first position where portion 15 is held to the vehicle by suction, and a second (release) position where the foot portion can be removed from the attachment to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: Charles Hugh McAnoy
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Patent number: 8302828Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cross bar of a roof carrier for vehicles. The cross bar may include a cross bar body. First and second brackets are provided on both ends of the cross bar body. First and second locking pins are provided, respectively, on the first and second brackets to be elastically ejected. A link is positioned in the first bracket and hinged to the first locking pin. A release lever includes a coupling part hinged to the link and installed via a rotating shaft, and a grip part exposed to the outside, so that when the release lever rotates, the link and the first locking pin are pulled into the cross bar body. A wire couples the coupling part of the release lever with the second locking pin. According to the present invention, the release lever is mounted to only one side and only one wire is used, thus reducing manufacturing costs.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2009Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Hang Young Kim, Woo Jin Lee
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Publication number: 20120273536Abstract: An arrangement for adjusting and securing a load to the roof of a vehicle is described, the arrangement being operable by a single person and comprising an elongate load adjusting and securing means having a first end and a second end mountable on a vehicle, one end of the elongate load adjusting and securing means comprising a first load stop end, the elongate load adjusting and securing means comprising a load carrying member extending between the two ends, a movable clamp movably mounted on the load carrying member, the movable clamp having connecting means for connecting towing means to the movable clamp, the load adjusting and securing means having means for moving the clamp along the load carrying member via the towing means.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2011Publication date: November 1, 2012Inventors: Declan CAMPBELL, Martin Conway
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Patent number: 8267292Abstract: A load carrier for a vehicle roof is disclosed. The load carrier includes at least one load profile which, in use, extends along the vehicle roof. The load profile has a first part and a second part which are movable relative to each other in their longitudinal direction. The first part that in use is positioned next to the vehicle roof having at the top an undercut groove which extends in the longitudinal direction of the first part and in which engages, in a longitudinally displaceable manner, at least one slideway belonging to the second part and having a shape matching the undercut groove.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Taras Czornyj
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Patent number: 8267293Abstract: A car top bicycle frame for retaining at least one bicycle transversally and obliquely comprises at least one positioning rod; a retaining buckle set; and a track set. By the positioning rod to combine to the track by the clamping sets, a bicycle can be installed upon a top of a car transversally and obliquely so as to be carried safely and conveniently. The bicycle can be fixed to the bicycle retaining frame on the ground before lifted to the car top. Then the bicycle and the frame are lifted to the entrance of the assisting guide track to enter into the track. The height for operation is reduced greatly so that no platform is needed. Only one people can lift the bicycle to the car top or descend the bicycle from the car top. More bicycles can be installed to the car top. The number of bicycles can be increased as the top of the car is prolonged.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2009Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Inventor: Yung-Lin Liu
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Patent number: 8245893Abstract: An assembly for loading cargo on top of a vehicle includes at least one load bar oriented perpendicular to a pair of crossbars. The load bar is movable between stowed and loading positions in a direction parallel to the direction of vehicle travel. A rear end of the load bar is connected to a roller device for minimizing friction and avoiding contact with the vehicle when cargo is being elevated to the roof of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Eric Roesinger, Zac Elder
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Publication number: 20120181313Abstract: An assembly for loading cargo on top of a vehicle includes at least one load bar oriented perpendicular to a pair of crossbars. The load bar is movable between stowed and loading positions in a direction parallel to the direction of vehicle travel. A rear end of the load bar is connected to a roller device for minimizing friction and avoiding contact with the vehicle when cargo is being elevated to the roof of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Eric Roesinger, Zac Elder
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Patent number: 8191743Abstract: A removable recreational vehicle carry apparatus provides for removable adjustable mount to an existing host vehicle such as a car or truck. The apparatus comprises a framework that substantially surrounds the host vehicle and provides for carry of recreational vehicles, mowers, and other equipment. Stabilizing jacks are provided for added rigidity during loading and unloading. Multiple ramps with hooks and wheels provide for loading as desired. Trunks and beds of trucks remain substantially free for loading of other equipment and items.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2010Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Inventors: Douglas M. Bowden, Lynn Bowden
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Patent number: 8133000Abstract: A system for loading, unloading and carrying a boat, upright with motor, on a vehicle includes a raised carrying rack positioned at an incline above the vehicle and a loading arm extending rearwardly from the back of the vehicle and supported in cantilever fashion by cables. A winch, cable and pulley system pulls the boat out of the water, onto the loading arm, up onto rollers at the rear of the carrying rack, and to the forward end of the carrying rack where it is secured. The loading arm may be folded upright after the boat is loaded on the carrying rack.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Rogue Otter System, LLCInventors: Wayne L. Olson, Kenneth Raymond Monroe, Charles M. McNair
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Publication number: 20110303711Abstract: Disclosed is a load carrier made up of a flat tray like body which attaches to a vehicle by load bars. A cargo container attaches to the flat tray-like load carrier body, and is locked in one of several possible positions on the flat tray-like body. The load container may also be removed and the load carrier used without the cargo container. Devices for holding objects such as bicycles, canoes, kayaks, may also be attached to the load carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventor: Michael McMillan
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Publication number: 20110266402Abstract: The present invention is directed to a ladder apparatus capable of being mounted to a vehicle. The ladder apparatus generally comprises a mounting support, a main ladder support for receiving an extension ladder, and a torsion support. The mounting support, the main ladder support and the torsion support are pivotally connected so that the apparatus can be raised from a retracted home position to an extended position. When the apparatus is in the extended position it can be set to a desired height and/or rotational position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2011Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventor: Jack Parrish
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Patent number: 8028874Abstract: An L-shaped member has a forwardly extending horizontal leg and an upwardly extending vertical leg. The horizontal leg has a forward end removably couplable with respect to a hitch of a vehicle. The vertical leg has an upper end. A roller assembly includes a U-shaped support. The U-shaped support has a horizontal central portion coupled to the upper end of the vertical leg. The U-shaped support has upwardly extending vertical end legs and a shaft rotatably supported by the end legs. The roller assembly includes primary rollers rotatably supported on the shaft. A spacer is provided between the primary rollers. A bottom of an object is positionable upon the primary rollers and pushed into position upon a roof of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2009Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Inventor: Christopher S. Stiles
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Patent number: 7980436Abstract: A gear mounting assembly for mounting gear within a vehicle rooftop cargo box. The mounting assembly includes a support platform for mounting gear, and which is configured to fit within a vehicle cargo box. The mounting assembly also includes an attachment mechanism for attaching the support platform to the cargo box, configured to allow rotation of the support platform between a stowed position and a rotated position in which gear is “presented” to a user.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventors: Steve Rodden, Jeff Castro
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Publication number: 20110024472Abstract: An attachment for a vehicle effective in facilitating the loading of an elongated article onto the roof of such vehicle, generally consisting of a support means mountable on an end of the vehicle; a bracket mounted on the support means; a roller mounted on the bracket, having a rotation axis disposed transversely relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle, onto which an end of an article may be rested to accommodate the lifting of an opposite end thereof and rolling the article onto the roof of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2009Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventors: Dee D. Thompson, Virginia Elizabeth Thompson
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Patent number: 7866516Abstract: The invention relates to a roof rack (1) for a vehicle having at least one tubular rail (2) extending essentially at a distance from the roof of the vehicle and at least two supports (5) at the ends of the rail to attach the roof rack (1) to the vehicle roof, where the rail (2) is shaped in its end areas (3) to have a curve (4) and in the area of each curve (4) is held from below by the support (5) which can be attached to the rail (2), the underside (11) of said support—when viewed in cross-section—forming a flat supporting surface (12) for a matching surface (13) on the rail (2).Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Hans und Ottmar Binder GmbH OberflachenveredelungInventors: Hans Binder, Ottmar Binder
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Patent number: 7845528Abstract: Disclosed is a load carrier made up of a flat tray like body which attaches to a vehicle by load bars. A cargo container attaches to the flat tray-like load carrier body, and is locked in one of several possible positions on the flat tray-like body. The load container may also be removed and the load carrier used without the cargo container. Devices for holding objects such as bicycles, canoes, kayaks, may also be attached to the load carrier.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Michael McMillan
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Patent number: 7810686Abstract: The invention is a watercraft carrier that can be easily loaded and secured. The carrier has a base and an arm with a belt that runs the length of both the base and the arm. A watercraft is placed within upon the base and against the arm. Then the belt is extended using a crank so that the belt come around the watercraft and the belt is secured using a fastener that is attached to the end of the belt. Then the belt is tightened to secure the watercraft by turning the crank the other direction or by use of a ratchet. In the preferred embodiment, the belt has a flexible stiffener added to make the belt stiffer, but still flexible enough to secure any shaped watercraft.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2006Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Inventor: Milton Edward Ilgenfritz
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Patent number: 7780050Abstract: The cargo rack assembly a support rack such as the roof rack of a vehicle to assist in the loading and unloading of cargo onto the support rack. The assembly includes load bars connected to base bars via a pivoting lever; the load bars include straps and load arms for securing cargo to the assembly. The base bars are affixed to the support rack and the load bars and pivoting levers transition between a secured position and a loading/unloading position in a smooth motion. The assembly may include a tensioning system for biasing the load bars to the secure position to aid the user in lifting the cargo.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Inventor: Timothy Tucker
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Publication number: 20090274539Abstract: The invention is a tool used for aiding in the removal of material from the forks of a forklift to the overhead rack system of a pickup truck. After a forklift loaded with material lowers its forks onto a truck's overhead rack system, the forklift draws away, forcing the material against the Load Sweep. This force is transferred through the Load Sweep into the stationary overhead rack system attached to the vehicle. The forks then withdraw, allowing the material to drop onto the overhead rack system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: November 5, 2009Inventor: Jared Elliott Bockoff
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Patent number: 7549831Abstract: A motorized ladder rack for loading or unloading a ladder on a vehicle is provided. The motorized ladder rack comprises a stationary front cradle, a pivotable and extendable rear cradle and a side rail. The rear cradle includes a motorized drive assembly which may be remotely controlled. The front and rear cradles are secured to the vehicle. The front cradle includes a support member, front and side guides removably secured to the support member and a side stop removably secured to the support member. The side rail is secured to the front and rear cradles and extends therebetween. The ladder rack is movable between a first position and a second position by activation of the motorized drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: L & P Property Management CompanyInventors: John H. Hendley, John H. Fischer, Richard J. Renard
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Publication number: 20090145940Abstract: A utility rack for mounting onto the top surface of a vehicle. The utility rack includes at one side assembly for receiving an object. The utility rack side assembly includes a front end and back end that can be raised and lowered in unison through the use of extendible, elongated pivoting members. A drive assembly is connected to the utility side rack assemblies. A control unit functionally connects the drive assembly for raising and lowering the at least one side assembly. The vehicle top surface mounting assembly support the utility rack side assembly and the drive assembly on the top surface of the vehicle. The elongated pivoting members include extendible bracket units that slideably extend and retract from a distal end of the elongated pivoting member and activated by the drive assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Ben W. Bukowiec
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Publication number: 20090140021Abstract: A ladder rack for supporting a ladder in a stowage position and for moving the ladder between the stowage position and a loading/unloading position at which the ladder can be loaded onto the rack or unloaded from the rack. The ladder rack includes a frame assembly which is mounted on a support structure such as a vehicle roof and a bed platform having opposite ends that are coupled to the frame assembly for sliding and hinged movement with respect to the frame assembly. At least one of the ends of the bed platform is configured to be extendible when pivoted downward into a loading or unloading position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2008Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventors: Thomas Richter, Rod Sautter
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Patent number: 7513730Abstract: The rack for a vehicle roof is a mechanized device for loading and unloading cargo onto and from a roof of a motor vehicle for transport. The rack includes a pair of horizontal support frame members mounted either directly on the roof of the vehicle, or onto an existing vehicle roof rack. A cargo carrying rack is mounted on cargo carrying arms, which are pivotally and slidably attached to a pair of traveling support arms that are, in turn, pivotally and slidably linked to the frame members. In some embodiments, a motor and gear train raise and lower the cargo carrying rack to and from the roof for loading and unloading cargo. In other embodiments, the cargo carrying rack is raised and lowered manually, with articulated stabilizer arms having a ratchet mechanism at one end and a spring-biased pulley at the other end dampening the speed of deployment.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Inventor: Jess C. Goyanko
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Publication number: 20090065543Abstract: A rack for a truck or trailer bed includes a shelf configured to be attached to and span between walls of the bed. The shelf is sized to accommodate a set of tires from a recreational vehicle and arranged to position the recreational vehicle on an incline relative to the bed. At least one ramp is attached to the shelf. The ramp is configured to slope downward from the shelf to the bed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Applicant: EXTREME FORM PRODUCTS, LLCInventor: Gordon D. Bone
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Patent number: 7469806Abstract: A bicycle carrier apparatus comprising: a first member configured to attach to an automobile trailer hitch; a first hinged element coupled to the first member; a second member coupled to the first hinged element and to a second hinged element; a bicycle attaching member coupled to the second hinged element; and where the bicycle carrier apparatus is configured move from a ground position to a traveling position, and from a traveling position to a ground position, by pivoting the second member and the bicycle attaching member about the first hinged element and the second hinged element.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Gregory L. Garoffolo
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Publication number: 20080035689Abstract: A roller load assisted roof-top carrier for elongate articles such as kayak boats. The roof-top carrier includes a space frame having at least a U-shaped portion, the legs of which are each slidingly mountable to each of a front and back cross bar of a vehicular roof rack. In this manner, the space frame translates unitarily relative to the vehicular roof rack. Forward and back cross members are provided that are mounted upon the space frame, the front cross member carrying a pair of kayak saddles, each faced with a friction inducing material for discouraging slippage between a secured kayak and the space frame and the back cross member carrying a pair of guide panels, each faced with a slip inducing material for encouraging slippage between a kayak being loaded on or unloaded from the space frame. A roller is mounted on a back bight portion of the space frame, the roller being located at a fixed spacing with respect to the front and back cross members.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventors: Frederick G. Murray, Kevin W. Harris
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Publication number: 20080035688Abstract: A loader for loading a kayak or other article onto a roofrack carrier. Typically two carriers are mounted on a roofrack and loader is used for each carrier. Each loader has a loading cradle that is slidably mounted in a slide rail and an attachment plate for attaching the slide rail to a carrier. A kayak is supported in the two loading cradles. Each cradle is pushed up the slide rail to lift the kayak near to the carrier. The lifting can be done by a single person in steps. A locking mechanism holds the loading cradle in position on the slide rail and prevents it from sliding backward. The user may move from one loader to the other to sequentially push the loading cradles up the two slide rails, thereby bringing the kayak close to the carriers mounted on the roofrack and in position for loading into the carriers.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Applicant: Malone Paddle GearInventor: Larry D. Malone
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Publication number: 20070177964Abstract: A loader is releasably mounted to an associated vehicle rack. The loader has a first generally horizontal position for transporting an associated boat and a second position inclined downwardly at an angle of inclination to the generally horizontal first position for launching and loading the associated boat in a predominately upright position. The loader comprises an outer frame assembly and an inner frame assembly. The outer frame assembly is configured for pivotal engagement with the associated vehicle rack. The inner frame assembly is at least partially telescopically received in the outer frame assembly. In the first position, the inner frame assembly is releasably secured within the outer frame assembly. In the second position, the outer frame assembly is at least partially rotated about a horizontal transverse axis defined by the associated vehicle rack and the inner frame assembly at least partially extends telescopically outwardly from the outer frame assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2007Publication date: August 2, 2007Inventor: Paul A. Bosela
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Patent number: 7232170Abstract: A rack assembly secures articles to a motor vehicle having a liftgate. The liftgate defines a predetermined liftgate with, a bumper and a roof rack. The rack assembly includes first and second base mounts that are fixedly secured to the bumper. The rack assembly also includes first and second rack mounts that are fixedly secured to the roof rack. The rack assembly also includes a mounting rack that is pivotally secured to the first base mount and the first rack mount and removeably securable to the second base mount and second rack mount. The mounting rack provides securing devices for securing articles thereto.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: Magna International Inc.Inventor: Brad E. Watson
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Patent number: 7210721Abstract: A ladder rack to carry a ladder on a pick-up truck having a front and rear rack mounting openings in a top portion of the side wall of the bed box, comprising: a front and a rear ladder support each having, i) an upright insertion portion sized to be closely received within one of the mounting openings in the pick-up truck; ii) a lateral offset portion carried by, and extending inwardly from a top portion of the upright insertion portion; iii) a mast portion carried by an inner end portion of the lateral offset portion; iv) a lateral ladder carrying portion extending outwardly and upwardly from an upper portion of the mast, so that a ladder resting thereon will slide inwardly thereon to and against the mast; and, v) a ladder retention means extending outwardly over the ladder from a top portion of the mast to prevent the ladder from bouncing off the lateral ladder carrying portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: William Clinton Bell
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Patent number: 7182233Abstract: A roof rack system that is a platform for any roof mounted products. Examples of such products include bikes, skis, snow boards, kayaks, canoes, or storage compartments or baskets. This system will fit any vehicle, any make, any model, any year, with a single stock keeping unit (SKU). It is also an attractive rack, even if it does not carry any products.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: TopLine Mfg. Inc.Inventors: Thomas F. Graffy, Stepan Gevorkyan