Abstract: An overhead console assembly mounted to a headliner in a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The overhead console assembly includes an overhead console housing configured for attachment adjacent to a lower surface of the headliner or frame of the vehicle roof. The console housing includes a lower surface, at least one channel in the lower surface and opposing pivotally mounted first and second doors at least partially covering the lower surface. At least one storage module is releasably securable and adjustably positionable within the channel in the overhead console housing. The at least one storage module includes a housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, a sidewall extending therebetween defining a receiving area therebetween accessible through an opening in the sidewall. An accessory module removably mountable within the receiving area of the storage module housing receives and stores items.

Abstract: A console for motor vehicles comprises a bezel and a divider. The bezel defines an opening for receiving one or more modules. The divider is releasably attached to the bezel to divide the opening into a plurality of slots. Each slot is provided for receiving a separate module.

Abstract: A processor implemented video monitor includes a display housing hinged to an overhead console. The display housing is stowed in an open stowage cavity of the console and is maintained in its stowed position by a latch detent pin which projects through an opening in a cavity wall and engages a recess, aperture or slot in a wall of the housing. The detent pin is retracted by a solenoid mounted within the console for releasing the display housing for deployment to a viewing position. A shallow finger well having exposed touch sensor terminals is formed in the console. Upon placement of a finger in the well and against the terminals, a solenoid driving circuit actuates the solenoid to retract the latch and permit the display housing to lower to a deployed position. The solenoid is optionally actuated through the processor, as by response to a remote control signal sensor or a membrane keypad.

Abstract: A carrying structure is provided, which is supported on one wall of the loading space with the freedom to move between a rest position and at least one carrying position, where the carrying structure, when in the rest position, fits closely against the wall of the loading space.

Abstract: A support structure for an interior overheard console of a roof of an automotive vehicle, comprising one or more elongated trays, opening at one of its larger walls, and which is anchored at its front and rear edges to crosspieces of the roof of the vehicle. The tray defines housings for the assembly of interchangeable compartments therein. There are connections between each tray and the crosspieces. Guides for installation and the fastening of the compartments in the tray.

Abstract: A configurable overhead console includes a support beam concealed above a headliner with a plurality of apertures adapted to receive one or more removable modules positioned below the headliner and sufficiently spaced to inhibit folding or creasing of the headliner during handling. The support beam may include attachment apertures and one or more associated positioning or orientation apertures to orient and secure a removable module to the support beam via a twist-lock latching device. Electrical contact strips may be provided along one or more of the channels of the support beam to provide power to modules via corresponding contact pins that extend through the attachment aperture and/or alignment or positioning apertures.

Abstract: An interior design device for motor vehicles is provided which can be installed in an interior space of the vehicle with a lining section that can be fastened to a vehicle wall. A fastening section for the lining section and a coat hook element extend into the interior. The fastening section and the hook element are connected with each other via a bridge and the fastening section can be attached to the vehicle wall and the hook element rests against the interior surface of the lining section facing the interior. In order to be able to fasten the lining section of the interior design device in a simple manner, the fastening section is installed between the lining section and the vehicle wall with the bridge extending beyond a peripheral edge of the lining section and the fastening section and the hook element are placed on top of the peripheral edge.

Abstract: A modular vehicle system for a vehicle includes one or more elongated modular members adapted to be coupled to an interior portion of a vehicle. One or more removable articles are configured for attachment to one or more of the members and a utility system provides utilities to the articles. One or more holders are positioned to align with the members and are coupled to the articles for attaching them to one or more of the members. The articles are interchangeable across multiple different vehicles, including different vehicle models and makes.

Abstract: An overhead console assembly and headliner combination for a vehicle includes a headliner having an upper surface, a lower surface and an elongated channel formed therein. An overhead console mounting arrangement securable to the headliner including opposing first and second rails having a rail extension and a power connector arrangement in communication with a vehicle electrical system. One or more accessory modules are selectively positionable and removably attachable to the opposing first and second rails with an accessory module mounting arrangement. The accessory module including a module housing, a door pivotally mounted to the housing and a storage area defined within the housing configured to receive and store items. The accessory module includes at least one electrical connector disposed on an outer surface of the module housing which engages the power connector arrangement on one of the opposing first and second rails to supply power to the accessory module.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.

Abstract: A vehicle console includes a media storage compartment having a plurality of receptacles arranged to selectively fan-out to facilitate access to the receptacles for storage and retrieval of items. The vehicle console may be an overhead console, a center console attached to the floor or a seat, or integrated into another portion of the interior such as a door panel or dashboard, for example. In one embodiment, a plurality of receptacles joined together with collapsible and expandable spacing therebetween facilitates storage and retrieval of items upon opening of a storage compartment door. The receptacles may be implemented by plastic sleeves flexibly connected by a string, band, webbing, or other material to fan-out, accordion style, and present the stowed items to a user upon opening of the storage compartment door, while collapsing within the storage compartment upon closing of the door for efficient storage.

Abstract: A module is disclosed for storing articles in an overhead system of a vehicle. The module includes a housing to engage an elongated member positioned on an interior overhead portion of the vehicle, a closure panel coupled to the housing to provide access to a storage area within the housing, and a first pattern of connection points adapted to interface with a corresponding second pattern of connection points on a sub-module. A method of providing a sub-module for use with a module in an overhead system for a vehicle is also disclosed and includes positioning the sub-module within a storage area of the module, aligning a first pattern of connection points on the module with a second pattern of connection points on the sub-module, and coupling the sub-module to the module.

Abstract: An auto activity center with toy and baby bottle tether for providing an adjustable rod assembly adapted for use in the rear of a vehicle to suspend toys and bottles to occupy the infant during car travel. The auto activity center with toy and baby bottle tether includes a horizontal support member that is coupled to an interior of a vehicle adjacent to a top of the interior. Each of a plurality of vertical support assemblies has a first end that is coupled to the horizontal support member. Each one of the vertical support assemblies has a second end. A plurality of fastening means is coupled to the second end. Each one of the plurality of fastening means is for securing a children's accessory to the system.

Abstract: A clamp for securing a gun rack to a vehicle including an elongated frame member and first and second clamp members.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.

Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate user tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divider mount of the rack.

Abstract: A stowable automotive coat hanger support for a vehicle roof has a support structure and an outer panel in assembled relationship and a headliner in affixed spaced relationship to the support structure. The coat hanger support is comprised of a fabric webbing loop which is connected to the support structure in the space between the support structure and the headliner. The webbing loop extends from the space to a coat-hanger-receiving position and is foldable to a collapsed stowed position against the headliner. A hook-and-loop fastener is used to retain the collapsed webbing loop against the headliner.

Abstract: A readily attachable and removable hanger for suspending flexible bags such as plastic grocery bags filled with groceries and other items, for transport in a vehicle. The bag hanger includes a plurality of shaped hooks and is engageable with a portion of the vehicle for use when transporting filled grocery bags, but which may be quickly removed when not in such use.

Abstract: A modular system for a vehicle is provided which includes one or more elongated members adapted to be coupled to an interior portion of a vehicle, where one or more removable articles are configured for attachment to one or more of the members and a utility system provides utilities to the articles. One or more holders are positioned to align with the members and are coupled to the articles for attaching the articles to one or more of the members.

Abstract: A decklid and luggage compartment system for an automotive vehicle includes a luggage compartment located at one end of a vehicle and a decklid for closing the luggage compartment. A linked hinge moves the decklid translationally from a closed position to a raised position and axially displaced open position. The decklid maintains a common attitude in both the closed and opened positions. A combination load floor and bumper assembly having a load floor for the luggage compartment is mounted upon a sliding carrier for movement between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: An integrated overhead console system for a vehicle provides storage compartments and electronic devices such as map lights and infotainment systems. The vehicle headliner forms a console body portion of the console, and defines a space that has an opening. A retainer is located between the headliner and a vehicle roof panel. The storage compartments are covered by console doors, which attach directly to the retainer. The electronic devices also attach directly to the retainer, which eliminates the need for a large bezel. This reduces material costs and the weight of the vehicle.

Abstract: A stabilizing device for supporting a motorcycle in a storage and transport position inside an enclosed trailer. A support frame is attached to the ceiling trusses of the trailer. A telescopic arm extends downward from the support frame to connect to a cross arm including hooks and straps that attach to the motorcycle to secure the motorcycle in place. A strengthening brace is interconnected between the opposite side of the support frame and an intermediate position on the telescopic arm.

Abstract: A drawer assembly securable against a ceiling surface to conceal a recessed interior. A drawer is dimensioned to be received within the recessed interior of a cover housing secured to the ceiling. The base and sides of the drawer define a cavity arrayed in opposing fashion to the recessed interior of the cover housing. Cylinders secure the drawer to the housing in combination with a pair of slide mechanisms in pivoting fashion along one end thereof. A counterbalance provides smooth and effortless balancing of the combined weight of the drawer and its interiorly held contents. A release mechanism actuates the cylinders, counterbalance axle and slide mechanisms in successive fashion to actuate the drawer to its fully extended position in which the object supportable and open cavity is fully exposed.

Abstract: A car-mounted bicycle or wheelchair carrier that enables a bicycle to be easily and quickly loaded and unloaded, that can be completely stored in the trunk in a compact fashion when it is not being used and be removed from the trunk in a one-step operation, that can be easily mounted to any existing cars, that can reliably immobilize a bicycle or wheelchair when the car is being driven, that can be applied to various types of bicycles as well as to wheelchairs, and that can be manufactured at low cost.

Abstract: A container of nonflammable wipes or towels is attached in a safe and convenient place within the engine compartment of a motor vehicle. The wipes or towels are made from a disposable, nonflammable material. A container retaining the wipes is made from a high-temperature resistant material. The container provides access to the wipes via an opening in the container or by removal of a container lid or cover. The container may include insulation to prevent the interior of the container from reaching extreme engine compartment temperatures. The wipes are stored directly in the container or are stored in a removable canister. The removable canister is sized to fit within the container.

Abstract: A bicycle-carrier device comprises a supporting member to be mounted in cantilever fashion on the back of a motor vehicle, for supporting a bicycle in an upright position and in a vertical plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle. The supporting member comprises two cradles for supporting the wheels of the bicycle, and an auxiliary arm for clamping the bicycle in position.

Abstract: Apparatus for supporting loaded shopping bags within a compartment of a vehicle, such as an automobile trunk, so that the bags are maintained in an upright position during vehicle operation are provided. An apparatus includes a frame that is movably secured beneath a panel, such as an automobile package tray, that is in overlying, spaced-apart relationship with a floor of a vehicle compartment. The frame is movable between a stored position and an extended position. The frame is disposed beneath the panel when in the stored position, and the frame extends outwardly from the panel into the vehicle compartment for convenient use thereof by a user when in the extended position. One or more projections extend from the frame, such as from a free edge portion thereof. Each projection is configured to support one or more loaded shopping bags by the handles thereof and to maintain the one or more loaded shopping bags in an upright position during operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A multi-compartment bag assembly for protecting and storing one or both hardtops of a coupe top automobile, the bag assembly comprising a first bag compartment defined by an overlying first outside compartment wall and an inside compartment wall joined along respective bottom and opposing side edges and including a first top lateral opening adapted for receiving at least one of the hardtops therein, and a second bag compartment defined by the inside compartment wall and a second outside compartment wall, the inside compartment wall and the second outside compartment wall being joined along respective bottom and side edges and including a second top lateral opening adapted for receiving at least one of the hardtops therein.

Abstract: A carrying structure is provided, which is supported on one wall of the loading space with the freedom to move between a rest position and at least one carrying position, where the carrying structure, when in the rest position, fits closely against the wall of the loading space.

Abstract: A ceiling mounted delivery device for use inside of a motor vehicle is disclosed, and according to the present invention, is designed to allow the safe, controlled delivery of items between seated passengers who are separated by distances greater than their personal reach. There are two present versions of this invention. The first version consists of an aluminum flat metal frame that roughly runs the length of the vehicle's ceiling. A pulley is affixed just fore and aft of the frame and a nylon string connects both pulleys together forming a pulley type conveyor delivery system. As the conveyor nylon string is manually moved, personal items attached to the string are transported from one end of the device/vehicle to the other. This pulley type conveyor delivery system utilizes two flat metal cross members designed to hold said frame onto the ceiling of the vehicle. The second version utilizes a rotatable screw gear drive conveyor delivery system.

Abstract: A readily attachable and removable hanger for suspending flexible bags such as plastic grocery bags filled with groceries and other items, for transport in a vehicle. The bag hanger includes a plurality of shaped hooks and is engageable with a portion of the vehicle for use when transporting filled grocery bags, but which may be quickly removed when not in such use.

Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate user tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divider mount of the rack.

Abstract: A ceiling-mountable display monitor system for the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The display monitor system includes a display monitor coupled to a housing assembly. In one exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly is selectively adjustable for mounting in different vehicles having different ceiling configurations. In another exemplary embodiment, an upper portion of the housing assembly is mountable above the vehicle headliner, while a lower portion of the housing assembly is mountable below the headliner. Optionally, the upper and lower portions of the housing assembly clamp onto the headliner. The upper and/or the lower portions may be adjustable for mounting in different vehicles.

Abstract: A removably attached overhead bar module having retention devices attached thereto. Retention devices allow for items to be carried within the interior compartment while still allowing occupants to be seated in the traditional seating positions. Further provided is an overhead net module extending between the bars of the overhead bar module.

Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate user tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divider mount of the rack.

Abstract: A television stand has a base, a pivotal hinge extension formed on one end of the base and having a cavity defined therein, an extension formed in the base and laterally extending into the cavity, a pivot plate rotatably mounted on the extension with a vertical axis of rotation and a frame pivotally connected to the pivot plate with a lateral axis of rotation. Consequently, the frame can be folded into the base when the television mounted in the frame is not in use. In addition, the frame can be longitudinally rotated relative to the base to adjust the operation angle. The facility and versatility of using the television stand can be improved.

Abstract: An overhead console assembly for a vehicle includes accessory module compartments selectively positioned and removably secured to the overhead console for storing materials within the compartments. The overhead console includes a first console housing disposed to an miner surface of a structural member of a headliner assembly on a roofline of a vehicle, a second console housing disposed on the structural member of the headliner spaced apart from the first console housing and a center console housing disposed between the first and second console housings. At least one accessory module is removably secured to the center console housing. The at least one accessory module includes a housing, a storage area defined within the housing to retain materials stored within, and at least one securing member coupling the at least one module to a securement surface provided on the center console housing.

Abstract: A removably attached overhead bar module having retention devices attached thereto. Retention devices allow for items to be carried within the interior compartment while still allowing occupants to be seated in the traditional seating positions. Further provided is an overhead net module extending between the bars of the overhead bar module.

Abstract: A ceiling-mounted automotive display unit mounted in the ceiling of an automobile above the front passenger seat. The unit includes a screen with a viewing surface, the screen being mounted for movement between a stowed position wherein the screen is generally parallel to the plane of the ceiling and facing downward to reveal the viewing surface to a reclined front seat passenger, and a deployed position wherein the screen projects downward from the ceiling and faces rearward to reveal the viewing surface to a rear seat passenger.

Abstract: A display unit is provided, the display unit including a housing configured for mounting in an interior region of a vehicle, and a screen mounted on the housing for movement between a stowed position wherein the screen is at least partially contained within the housing and a deployed position wherein the screen projects from the housing to reveal a viewing surface of the screen The display unit further includes a lock mechanism adapted to selectively retain the screen in the stowed position. Upon release of the lock mechanism, however, the screen is free to be pivoted away from the stowed position, and in one embodiment, is automatically pivoted at least partially away from the stowed position.

Abstract: An angle/direction adjustable display device includes a rotary mount fixedly mounted on a support wall and rotated on an axis, a display holder frame having a fixed end pivoted to the rotary mount and a free end terminating in a coupling portion, and a video display device pivoted to the coupling portion at the free end of the display holder frame.

Abstract: A display unit is provided which includes a housing configured for mounting in an interior region of a vehicle. The housing has a track which extends from a cavity in the housing and a corresponding carriage which rides along the track. A screen, or display, with a viewing surface is pivotally mounted on the carriage to provide for deployment of the display first by translation of the display along the track between a first position wherein the display is at least partially contained within the cavity in a generally horizontal orientation and an intermediate position with the display still in the generally horizontal orientation, and second by pivot of the display about a first axis from the intermediate position to a deployed position wherein the viewing surface is presented for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle.

Abstract: A console and method of installing a console for a motor vehicle or the like including a passenger cabin. The console includes an accessory module for use by occupants of the vehicle and has a housing with fasteners adapted to mount the console within the vehicle cabin. A chamber having an open side is formed in the console and receives an accessory module. At least a portion of the housing comprises an expanded polymeric material, preferably expended polypropylene, to provide a soft surface within the vehicle cabin.

Abstract: A storage compartment includes spaced-apart storage areas with a first area capable of holding a remote garage door opening transmitter and covered by a movable panel with a pocket facing the inside of the storage compartment. When the panel is moved from a closed position to an open position, small items such as sunglasses can be removed from the pocket. When closed, the panel can be moved to a third position actuating the garage door remote transmitter.

Abstract: A bag or other item handling system including support struts that connect either to the interior of a vehicle trunk lid, or to the back of preferably a rear seat, for securement of support arms, which include integral hooks, and to which handled bags may be secured during transit of a vehicle. A modification provides the connection of a molded base or platform, having formed cavities therein, and to which accessory items may locate, be strapped or otherwise fastened in place, for storage when not in use. When system is applied to the back of a rear seat of a vehicle, a fastening bar may secure to the seat, at various elevated locations, interconnect pivotal hinge assemblies thereto, for supporting the support struts and support arms in place, for temporarily holding merchandise laden bags or other items in place, during transit or storage.

Abstract: A vehicle roof apparatus includes an overhead console that is slidably supported with respect to guide rails disposed along opposite sides of the opening in the vehicle roof. In one embodiment, the console is supported on the guide rails by frames, and sunshades are slidably supported in the frames. The sunshades are thus able to move with sliding movement of the overhead console, but are able to slidably move independent of the console. In another embodiment, the overhead console is slidably supported on the guide rails by the sunshades, with the console and the sunshades being movable together as a unit. In a further embodiment, the overhead console is supported on the guide rails by a supporting member, and the sunshades are slidably mounted on the console and the guide rails so that the console and the sunshades can be moved independently of one another.

Abstract: A storage bin is pivotally mounted to a housing and includes a recess having a latching surface which extends in a plane generally orthogonal to the direction of angular motion of the storage bin when it moves from a closed to an open position. A pivoted latch member is mounted in spaced pivotal relationship to the housing and has an end forming a latch stop which selectively engages the latching surface of the recess of the storage bin for preventing movement of the storage bin by blocking movement of the storage bin.

Abstract: Modular, firearm support cradles, an assembled rack and means for securing the cradles and rack to a variety of vehicle configurations. The rack includes a longitudinal frame member and from which project multiple padded cradles. Strap fasteners and lock means respectively restrain firearms and sundry paraphernalia to the cradles and rack. A telescoping expander bar assembly and mating extension arms permit a vehicle ceiling mount and/or roll bar mount of the rack. Cradles having sleeves which mate to the expander bar assembly facilitate user tailored mountings. A clamp plate assembly and mating extension arms permit a vertical divider mount of the rack.

Abstract: A releasably mounted equipment rack mounted to a roll bar and windshield me of a vehicle, allowing a viewing device to be mounted for viewing by a front seat occupant of a soft top vehicle.

Abstract: A new container attachment for attaching to a hood of a vehicle for holding a wipe cloth therein. The inventive device includes a mounting bracket, a container, and a lid. The mounting bracket having first and second spaced apart panels and a connecting portion connecting the panels of the mounting bracket together. The first panel of the mounting bracket is adapted for attachment to a structure. The container has base and a perimeter side wall. The perimeter side wall of the container has a front, and a back. The perimeter side wall of the container defines an interior space. The perimeter side wall of the container has a terminal edge which defines an opening into the interior space of the container. The lid has first and second surfaces, a front, and a back. The back of the lid is pivotally coupled to the back of the perimeter side wall of the container. The lid has a slot therethrough which extends between the front and back of the lid.