Carrier With Locking Means Patents (Class 224/315)
  • Patent number: 5520031
    Abstract: A security device is described that is simple and reliable. It includes a base member which is adhesively attached to the surface of a large object such as a motor vehicle. A protective knife-edged boss surrounds and protects the adhesive to defeat attempts to pry the base member off the vehicle. Housed within the base member is a steel tube, and a locking cable extends through the tube to secure personal property. A cavity is provided for easy installation of the tube within the base member, and a flange is attached to the tube for preventing extraction of the tube from the base member, as well as defeating removal of the base member from the vehicle. A three-way system of adhesion is employed which provides superior results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: Tortoise Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory M. Davidge
  • Patent number: 5516019
    Abstract: A carrier includes a fixing member having a fixing plate and a rubber magnet plate attached underneath the fixing plate, a carrier main body having ski mounting recesses and a shaft insertion hole, and a vacuum adhesion member having a shaft for lifting the vacuum adhesion member. The shaft of the vacuum adhesion member is protruded through the shaft insertion hole of the carrier main body, and a lever for lifting the shaft is installed at a top of the shaft of the vacuum adhesion member protruding through the shaft insertion hole. A ski fixing plate and inner cover having side cover lips for confining the lever of the vacuum adhesion member and an outer cover having a pressing member are rotatably connected to the carrier main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Soo M. Moon
  • Patent number: 5511894
    Abstract: In a quick release mechanism, a prong is retained around a skewer, the skewer extending from a fork block, between a bearing surface on the fork block and a bearing surface on a movable member. The movable member is mounted on the skewer and is axially movable thereon. The movable member is moved toward the fork block through a predetermined distance by a moving device which is mounted on the skewer and is axially movable relative thereto. The range of movement of the moving device is adjusted by an adjusting knob which is positioned at various axial positions on the skewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Industri Ar Thule
    Inventor: Daniel Ng
  • Patent number: 5503212
    Abstract: A solar shield device includes a cylinder secured to a housing. A sheet material is wound on a reef of the housing and unwound for covering the vehicle. Two bars are slidably engaged in the housing and include a number of holes for engaging with fastening member which may secure the bars together. Two hooks are secured to the bars and oppositely extended outward of the housing. The bars may move toward or away from each other for adjusting relative position between the hooks such that the hooks may hook to the trunk of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Zen C. Lin
  • Patent number: 5492258
    Abstract: A cross support for extending between the roof rails on a motor vehicle roof, and having a detachable clamping device for clamping to the railing tube. The clamping device includes a stationary resting jaw and a clamping jaw movable toward the resting jaw. The clamping jaw has a yoke for engaging the railing tube and has an attack surface on the opposite side of the pivot from the yoke. A swing lever is pivotably supported on the cross support and is swingable between positions where it locks the clamping jaw in the clamping position and where it releases the clamping jaw. The clamping jaw and the swing lever are on respective spaced apart pivots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Gebr. Happich GmbH
    Inventor: Harald Brunner
  • Patent number: 5476203
    Abstract: Bicycle carrier apparatus includes an H-shaped support frame bearing a pair of opposed threaded clamping members for rigidly gripping the bicycle pedal crank arm mounting bolts on opposite ends of the central crank arm shaft. A further support for the front wheel is provided in which the front wheel tire is frictionally engaged in a secure clamping device. A pair of individual bicycle carriers are affixed to a longitudinal support member which attaches to the receiver portion of a standard vehicle-mounted trailer hitch. An additional pair of bicycle carriers in a similar configuration may be connected to the first carrier apparatus by means of a simple connector assembly. A cartop rack is also disclosed as well as a variant which also mounts to a trailer hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: James D. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 5466028
    Abstract: An auxiliary storage compartment for an automobile has a compartment body with a pair of side portions and a substantially horizontal floor portion forming a U-shaped opening. The compartment body is rigidly attached to the roof and extends laterally across the width of the vehicle above the cargo storage area. The side portions, floor portion and the vehicle roof define a compartment therebetween. A bezel member, having at least one opening therein, is connected to compartment body and enclosing the U-shaped opening between the roof and the compartment body. At least one door is movably attached to the bezel opening for enclosing and providing access to the compartment. A latching mechanism on the door secures the door in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Michael D. Nicopolis
  • Patent number: 5464140
    Abstract: The roof of an automotive vehicle is provided with a pair of rails each of which has an upwardly facing slot. A pair of roof rack bars are each provided with an upwardly facing slot and a downwardly facing slot. A pair of roof engaging foot brackets are connected to opposite ends of each bar. A pair of angle members are secured to each bar. A pair of threaded studs extends through clearance holes in each angle member. The lower ends of the studs have enlarged heads which are inserted in the upper slot in a rail and turned into locking position. The upper ends of the studs are provided with flats to indicate the position of the heads. First nuts are threaded on the upper ends of the studs and have spherical surfaces engaging spherical surfaces on the angle members. Cotter pins fit within slots in the first nuts and holes in the angle member. Second nuts are threaded on the lower ends of the studs to engage and hold rail engaging members in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Inventor: Richard Hill
  • Patent number: 5460310
    Abstract: The magnetically coupling ski rack has a panel made of magnetic material which is associable with a motor vehicle roof, and removable therefrom by lifting one edge of the magnetic panel and then gradually removing the entire magnetic panel. Ski-supporting brackets are connected to the magnetic panel. The magnetic panel is covered by a covering element. A locking mechanism is provided for preventing removal of skis from the ski supporting brackets. The locking mechanism also prevents removal of the covering element in order to gain access to the magnetic panel, which in turn prevents removal of the magnetic panel from a vehicle roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: I.L.M.A. S.r.l. Industria Lavorazioni Meccaniche Autoaccessori
    Inventor: Luciano Fabbri Corsarini
  • Patent number: 5443190
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier apparatus adapted for use with a cargo bed of a vehicle such as a pick-up truck. The apparatus generally comprises a pair of cross rails each having a length sufficient to span the width of the cargo bed and to be supported on upper surfaces of the sidewalls of the cargo bed. A securing mechanism includes a threaded bolt and a threaded nut which clampingly secures a bracket to an inner lip portion of the sidewall and an undersurface of the cross rail to thus secure the cross rail to the sidewalls of the cargo bed. When an optional lock member is locked in place via a key, a threaded nut housed therein cannot be loosened when the lock member is in a locked position, and therefore the cross rail cannot be moved from the cargo bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cucheran, Jeffrey M. Aftanas
  • Patent number: 5431570
    Abstract: A latch for removably securing one of a plurality of different accessories to an automobile is described. The latch includes a mounting structure which is permanently installed on the vehicle in a manner which assures that the static and dynamic loading expected by reason of the differing accessories are supported by the vehicle. The latch also provides electrical feed-through for accessories that might need the same, and remote and/or locking securance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: Sport Rack Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew H. Gibbs, Douglas P. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 5423466
    Abstract: A ski carrier combined with a rubber magnet plate and a vacuum sucking adhering plate to be mounted on a roof of an automobile. A fixing member comprises a fixing plate body and a rubber magnet plate attached to a bottom surface of a fixing plate body and is formed with the vacuum sucking adhering plate inserting portion at the center. A carrier main body for fastening the ski is fixed on a fixing member and is pierced with the shaft inserting hole. A vacuum sucking adhering plate is provided between the vacuum sucking adhering plate inserting portion and the shaft inserting hole, and a cover for covering the ski is connected by a hinge to a carrier main body and it covers on a lever of the vacuum sucking adhering plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: Soo M. Moon
  • Patent number: 5419476
    Abstract: A truck bed mounting a tool box contained therewithin includes a container having first and second lids pivotally mounted relative to the top wall of the container, with the front wall of the container including a lock plate movably mounted relative to the front wall to effect compartmentalizing of storage below the tool box container relative to the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Inventor: W. Wyatt White
  • Patent number: 5417358
    Abstract: A pull down roof rack comprising a pair of parallel fixed rails secured to the roof of a vehicle, the fixed rails including a front fixed rail and a rear fixed rail, the rails adapted to extend from side to side of the vehicle each with a slot in its upper surface with rollers rotatable therein, and with their upper surfaces extending above the upper surfaces of the rail, each rail having lateral projections constituting bearing surfaces; two pair of movable rails slidable supported in pairs on the fixed rails and movable in pairs between a storage position where the movable rails are totally overlying the fixed rails and a loading position wherein the movable rails are slid outwardly from the center of the fixed rails, each movable rail having an upper surface, downwardly extending side surfaces and inwardly extending bearing surfaces located above and below the lateral projections of the fixed rails; and one pair of cross rails coupling each pair of movable rails, each pair of cross rails including a latera
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: Michael B. Haselgrove
  • Patent number: 5415333
    Abstract: A ski carrier for alternatively transporting skis by manually carrying, by a vehicle mounting the ski carrier therein, or by a common carrier. The ski carrier has a case having a cover portion and a holder portion, and an end cap positionable over an opening in a first end of the case when the cover and holder portions thereof are closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: James H. Wills
  • Patent number: 5411196
    Abstract: An article carrier includes spaced longitudinal rails, at least one of the rails having an upper arm coupled by a hinge to a lower arm. A crossbar having an end portion adapted to be entrained between the upper and lower arm portions includes a conformingly shaped mating surface to one of the members of the longitudinal rail. Preferably, both ends of each crossbar include conforming surfaces that mate with corresponding configurations on the rail to fixedly position the crossbar along the longitudinal rail. The position of the crossbar is easily adjusted by opening the upper member of the longitudinal rail by displacement about the hinge, and the hinge axis may be transversely, longitudinally or vertically aligned as desired. Preferably, two upper arms are provided on a longitudinal rail and supported by hinges located at opposite ends of the longitudinal rail. The opposite ends of the two upper arms include overlapping portions which can be retained by a single latch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Masco/Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Lee, Jr., Douglas L. Wickham, Gregory L. Eilers, William D. Batterson, Craig A. Stapleton
  • Patent number: 5397042
    Abstract: A self-centering roof rack system for transporting bicycles and other sporting goods on a motor vehicle. The rack includes a transverse bar mounted on the roof and supported by upright members at each end. The upright members are simultaneously moveable by rotation of a knob at one end of the rack by means of rotation of a threaded shaft which has right hand threads on one end and left hand threads on the other. The upright members are provided with either a pivoting or sliding mechanism that causes a floating hook adapted to grip a motor vehicle roof edge, the hook being caused to move upwardly and outwardly to firmly engage the roof as the uprights are moved toward each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 5390840
    Abstract: A load carrier intended for vehicular use is provided with a strut fixed over the vehicle roof, on which at least one holder, such as a ski holder, is secured. The ski holder has a retainer stirrup which, in a closed position, encloses the strut and secures the ski holder thereon and which, in an open position, permits removal of the ski holder. The ski holder is further provided with a locking unit which, in the locked position, prevents removal of the skis. In order to permit simple mounting and dismounting of the ski holder on the strut, the retainer stirrup, itself, or with a first catch member secured thereon, extends, in the closed position of the retainer stirrup, into locking engagement with the locking unit or a second catch member secured thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Jan I. Arvidsson
  • Patent number: 5385285
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier including a spring loaded locking mechanism for lockably engaging a pair of bracket members of the carrier releasably to a pair of slats of the carrier. The locking mechanism of each bracket member generally includes a locking member disposed for rotational movement within its bracket member, a spring for biasing the locking member into a normally locked position relative to its associated slat, and an actuating member mounted for pivotal movement within its associated bracket member. The actuating member has a cam surface and an upper end portion of the locking member has a cam following surface. Movement of the actuating member from a closed position to an open position protruding outwardly of its bracket member causes the locking member to be rotated against the biasing force of the spring into an unlocked position relative to its slat. Movement of the actuating member into a closed position allows the spring to bias the locking member into locking engagement with its slat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: JAC Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Cucheran, Jeffrey M. Aftanas
  • Patent number: 5377890
    Abstract: A roof rack for vehicles having two rails and support feet bearing the rails. Each rail is developed as a hollow profile with a longitudinal channel which is open on the top and has undercuts. On each rail there is optionally arranged a profiled cover strip which can be detachably anchored in the longitudinal channel and extends over the length of the rail, or a profiled cover strip which extends over a first part of the length of the rail and a profiled support strip which extends over the second part of the length. The profiled support strips are anchored such that they can be swung into a position of use which connects the rails transversely to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Gebr. Happich GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Brunner, Klaus Kolodziej, Karl-Heinz Lumpe
  • Patent number: 5377889
    Abstract: An automobile roof carrier of the invention is mainly composed of a magnetic base portion, a gripping portion for removal, a covering member and a loading article holding portion. The covering member is integrally jointed over the magnetic base portion while the magnetic base portion is covered by the covering member except in the attractive surface of the magnetic base portion and the gripping portion for removal. Combined integrally in the upper part of the covering member is a loading article holding portion which is able to be opened and closed. A supplementary cover which is able to be opened and closed is attached to the covering member so that the gripping portion for removal may be hidden and exposed. There is provided a first locking mechanism for maintaining the closed state of the supplementary cover, whereas there is provided a second locking mechanism for maintaining the closed state of the loading article holding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Autobacs Seven Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kozo Sumino, Masaaki Toya
  • Patent number: 5366195
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for affixing a load-bearing element to the roof of a vehicle such that the load-bearing element extends transversely over the roof. The device has a supporting and fixing element for engaging the vehicle. A contact support member is generally rigidly attached to an end part of the load-bearing element and extends downward from the element. The supporting and fixing element is swingably attached to the load-bearing element or the contact support member such that the lower end of the supporting and fixing element can be moved toward or away from the longitudinal center line of the vehicle. A clamping device is disposed on the contact support member and, in an activated locked position of the clamping device, the clamping device presses the lower part of the supporting and fixing element into locking engagement with a holding arrangement of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Jan-Ivar Arvidsson
  • Patent number: 5362173
    Abstract: In a quick release mechanism, a prong is retained around a skewer, the skewer extending from a fork block, between a bearing surface on the fork block and a bearing surface on a movable member. The movable member is mounted on the skewer and is axially movable thereon. The movable member is moved toward the fork block through a predetermined distance by a moving device which is mounted on the skewer and is axially movable relative thereto. The range of movement of the moving device is adjusted by an adjusting knob which is positioned at various axial positions on the skewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Daniel Ng
  • Patent number: 5350097
    Abstract: A utility rack is provided that may be swiftly and easily attached to the exteriors of vehicles of various sizes. The utility rack has a carrier bar containing a hollow compartment. A rubber band or a spring inside the hollow compartment is attached at either end to a non-elastic strap which extends from the hollow compartment and outside the carrier bar to hooks or other anchors detachably affixed to anchor points on the vehicle. Locking mechanisms are mounted on the carrier bar to lock the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by a pawl mechanism or by a pin. The utility rack is placed on the vehicle by pulling on the non-elastic straps and placing their respective anchors on the anchor points of the vehicle and then locking the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by means of the pawl and ratchet mechanisms or pin-perforated strap locking mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: Sportrack Canada, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Walter
  • Patent number: 5349834
    Abstract: A security device is described that is simple and reliable. It includes a base member which is adhesively attached to the surface of a large object such as a motor vehicle. A protective knife-edged boss surrounds and protects the adhesive attaching means to defeat attempts to pry the base member off the vehicle. Housed within the base member is a steel tube, and a locking cable extends through the tube to secure personal property. A cavity is provided for easy installation of the tube within the base member, and a flange is attached to the tube for preventing extraction of the tube from the base member, as well as defeating removal of the base member from the vehicle. A three-way system of adhesion is employed which provides superior results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: Tortoise Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory M. Davidge
  • Patent number: 5346357
    Abstract: An apparatus for stowing or extending for loading and unloading a towing dolly. The invention comprises a vertical support stand upon which rotate a pair of spaced apart pivot arms connected to a bracket into which is placed the towing dolly. The apparatus utilizes a novel self-locking flange which rotates so as to secure the dolly within the mounting bracket when it is pivoted into the storage position, and rotates so as to release the dolly from the bracket when the device is pivoted into the load/unload position. The apparatus may be secured into the storage position by means of a spring operated latch arm and latch pin. Further, the invention provides a locking lug for locking the towing dolly into the dolly mount to prevent theft of the towing dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Inventor: Curtis C. Hassell
  • Patent number: 5340007
    Abstract: The roof-rack device for a motor vehicle roof comprises at least two longitudinal elements coupled to the vehicle roof via respective pairs of end legs, with each longitudinal element being made up of at least three portions, namely: two end portions each extending between a corresponding end leg and an additional leg; and one central portion connected to the end portions by releasable link structure enabling said central portion to be installed either between the two end portions of the same longitudinal element, or else between two end portions of two different longitudinal elements, and situated at the same longitudinal position along the roof of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Farnier & Penin
    Inventors: Jean-Marie Jeuffray, Michel Memeteau
  • Patent number: 5306156
    Abstract: A latch for removably securing one of a plurality of different accessories to an automobile is described. The latch includes a mounting structure which is permanently installed on the vehicle in a manner which assures that the static and dynamic loading expected by reason of the differing accessories are supported by the vehicle. The latch also provides electrical feed-through for accessories that might need the same, and remote and/or locking securance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: Sport Rack Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew H. Gibbs, Douglas P. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 5299721
    Abstract: Apparatus selectively positionable in a boat for holding at least one scuba tank. The apparatus includes a receptacle, a cover covering the receptacle interior and having holes for receiving scuba tanks, and lock plates adjustably slidably mounted on side walls of the receptacle for engagement with the boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: James L. Cummings
  • Patent number: 5226570
    Abstract: A self-centering roof rack system for transporting bicycles and other sporting goods on a motor vehicle. The rack includes a transverse bar mounted on the roof and supported by upright members at each end. The upright members are simultaneously moveable by rotation of a knob at one end of the rack by means of rotation of a threaded shaft which has right hand threads on one end and left hand threads on the other. The upright members are provided with either a pivoting or sliding mechanism that causes a floating hook adapted to grip a motor vehicle root edge, the hook being caused to move upwardly and outwardly to firmly engage the roof as the uprights are moved toward each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Fabio Pedrini
  • Patent number: 5195669
    Abstract: The invention relates to a covering cap assembly (1) for a transverse girder (2) of a roof luggage rack designed so that a profiled forward end of the girder can be covered and locked. According to the invention the assembly is held together by a hinge (6) and consists of a covering cap (3) with a lock (4) and a bearing element (5). The bearing element (5) is inserted into a longitudinal slot at the underside (14) of the transverse girder (2) and is positioned and held in place interlockingly in the transverse profile. Retention in the longitudinal slot is provided by a locking element (21) and a rivet (24). In this way a simple construction of a cover cap assembly is had that is inexpensive in manufacture and assembly and is reliable in its functions and easy to handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Assignee: Votex GmbH
    Inventor: Stephan Duemmler
  • Patent number: 5186588
    Abstract: A latch for securing a ladder to a ladder rack mounted on a vehicle having a cross brace is formed by a latch body rigidly secured in depending relation to the cross brace. A sleeve pivotally mounted in the ladder latch body slidably receives the rod shaft portion of a J-shaped hook gripping a rung of the ladder when in a first position and releasing the ladder rung when pivoted to a second position. A lever and handle, pivotally supported by the latch body is pivotally connected with the rod shaft of the hook for manually positioning the hook in its first and second positions. The latch body receives the shackle of a lock for preventing unauthorized manual movement of the handle and releasing the rung of a ladder mounted on the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventors: Charles W. Sutton, J. Wayne Sutton
  • Patent number: 5169044
    Abstract: A holder device for fixedly securing a load (4, 5), for example a bicycle, on a vehicle roof is provided with a support channel (1) in which the wheel (4) of the cycle rests. The holder device is further provided with a retaining stirrup (6, 7) pivotal to an operative position for engagement with the frame tube (5) of the cycle. The retaining stirrup is connected by the intermediary of joints (8) to the support channel (1), which is, in its turn, secured with a releasable, U-shaped yoke (10) in the region of the connection between the retaining stirrup (6, 7) and the support channel (1), on a strut (3) disposed transversely across the vehicle roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Curt Englander
  • Patent number: 5137194
    Abstract: A ladder support rack capable of holding a ladder in place on a vehicle and quickly releasing it for use. A bell crank is pivoted to cause latching arms connected to the bell crank to move into and out of latching position. The latching arms are positioned to move between the ladder rungs and to engage predetermined rungs when holding the ladder in place. The ladder can be set into place and removed either from the end or the side of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: U S West Business Resources, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry A. Kodis
  • Patent number: 5137195
    Abstract: A utility rack is provided that may be swiftly and easily attached to the exteriors of vehicles of various sizes. The utility rack has a carrier bar containing a hollow compartment. A rubber band or a spring inside the hollow compartment is attached at either end to a non-elastic strap which extends from the hollow compartment and outside the carrier bar to hooks or other anchors detachably affixed to anchor points on the vehicle. Locking mechanisms are mounted on the carrier bar to lock the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by a pawl mechanism or by a pin. The utility rack is placed on the vehicle by pulling on the non-elastic straps and placing their respective anchors on the anchor points of the vehicle and then locking the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by means of the pawl and ratchet mechanisms or pin-perforated strap locking mechanims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Ski Tote, U.S.A.
    Inventor: Richard J. Walter
  • Patent number: 5119980
    Abstract: A closure for the two hinged bars of a vehicle roof-mounted ski mount is formed from a rotatable catch or pawl secured to one of the bars and a toothed harpoon extending from the other. Engagement and disengagement of the pawl with the teeth on the harpoon is governed by a manually operated button, the pawl being spring-biased toward engagement with the harpoon. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the pawl and button are part of a removable insert which fits into an end cap on the upper bar of the ski mount, and the spring is a spring clip which holds the insert in place in the end cap while permitting it to rotate to engage or disengage the pawl with the harpoon which is on the lower bar, the spring clip also urging the pawl into engagement with the harpoon as well as immobilizing the harpoon once it has been engaged by the pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Grim, Joseph J. Settelmayer
  • Patent number: 5115955
    Abstract: A ski rack comprising a support base member having one or more adjustable ski retention posts secured thereto and extending vertically thereabove. One or more abutment members extend vertically from the base member and disposed in spaced aligned relationship with a respective one of the retention posts. The retention posts each have flexible biasing fingers which project toward the abutment members in a ski receiving space defined between the posts and the abutment members for applying clamping pressure against a pair of skis supported on the base member in the ski receiving space. A bridge member extends above and across the abutment members and the retention posts. Attachment elements are disposed adjacent opposed ends of the ski rack for securing same to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: 167848 Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Michel Dallaire, Michael Santella, Michel Swift
  • Patent number: 5095722
    Abstract: A one piece locking device for securing kayaks and similarly shaped objects to stationary objects and automobile-mounted cartop carriers. The apparatus consists of a single plastic coated cable with a larger fixed loop at one end and two smaller fixed loops near and at the other end. The larger fixed loop is placed around one end of a kayak and the remaining cable passed under the crossbars of a cartop carrier and then around the opposite end of the kayak. By securing the two smaller fixed loops together with a lock, a loop is formed around this opposite end of the kayak. This newly formed loop and the larger fixed loop have approximately the same circumference, which is larger than the ends of the kayak but smaller than the cross-sectional circumference of the cockpit area of the kayak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventors: Stanley T. Chapmond, Robert P. Tod
  • Patent number: 5088636
    Abstract: A rolling tool box for storing tools is slidably mounted and supported between channels installed on opposite side walls of a pickup truck bed such that it will move between a stored position at the forward end and a tailgate rear end of the truck bed. The tool box enclosure has a shallow rectangular upper storage compartment extending transversly between the channels and above the wheel wells of the truck bed and a rectangular lower storage compartment extending transversly between the wheel wells of the truck bed and above the floor of the bed. A latch handle on the upper storage compartment moves a pair of rod members between a lock position engaged with apertures in the channel members to prevent sliding movement of the tool box and a released position to allow sliding movement. The lower storage compartment is provided with a plurality of drawers which allows stored items to be neatly and efficiently organized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Inventor: Antonio J. Barajas
  • Patent number: 5058791
    Abstract: A vehicular ladder rack comprising a stationary mounting frame including a pair of transverse frame members affixed to the roof of a vehicle, a positioning assembly including a pair of positioning members affixed to opposite end portions of an elongated longitudinal positioning element rotatable between a first and second position coupled to the pair of transverse frame member and a ladder support frame including a pair of ladder support members movable between a first and second position to support a ladder thereon operatively coupled between the pair of transverse frame member and the corresponding positioning member such that a ladder is supported over the roof of the vehicle for storage and transportation when the elongated longitudinal positioning element and ladder support frame are in the first position and the ladder support frame is moved from the first to second position when the elongated longitudinal positioning element is rotated from the first to second position to move the ladder support frame
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Slide-Out, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Henriquez, Richard F. Arens
  • Patent number: 5052200
    Abstract: A locking device for lock components, for example on vehicles, with two rotary closures which are arranged at a distance from one another and are connected by means of a mechanical transmission element to form a synchronously rotating closure unit and which interact with two catch bolts assigned to the two rotary closures, each located in a housing having an orifice adapted to receive the catch bolts. The two rotary closures of the closure unit, in their release position, are each blocked by means of an associated control member against rotation into locking engagement with the associated catch bolt. The control members are movable into an unblocked position in response to penetration of the catch bolts into the orifice of the housing, and the locking advance of the rotary closures is permitted only after both catch bolts have penetrated fully into the orifice in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Daimerler-Benz AG
    Inventors: Klaus Claar, Jan Schilling
  • Patent number: 5007568
    Abstract: A chain saw carrier mounts to the upright sidewalls of a truck and includes an angularly adjustable frame for carrying one or more saws above the bed of the truck. The carrier includes a frame suspended over the truck bed. A slotted blade receiver plate receives the saw blades, and a saw dog receiving bar above the plate secures and supports the saws by engagement between adjacent saw dog points on the engine compartments. The weight of the saws bear against the saw dog receiving bar which holds the saws elevationally in position. The carrier may include a cover member, selectively securable over the saw engine compartments. A locking device employs a flexible locking member that may be secured through the handle enclosures of saws mounted to the device, to secure the saw or saws to the carrier frame. The preferred carrier also includes a number of lockable tool compartments for receiving accessories, as well as hooks for suspending items such as tool belts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Inventor: Jimmy C. Da Vault
  • Patent number: 5002216
    Abstract: A roof rack mounting system for vehicle having concealed drip moldings in mounting plates are riveted to the roof return of a vehicle, on opposite sides of the vehicle underneath a vehicle upper door lip. Each mounting plate has two pins which fit into cups or slots formed on a foot plate. A leg section connects each foot plate to a hollow transverse beam. One leg section is movable and has a screw extending through the leg section and engaging a nut secured to the inside of the tranverse beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: Gerber Group Ltd.
    Inventor: Gary A. Gerber
  • Patent number: 4998425
    Abstract: An arrangement to releasably secure each of the two doors of a utility carrier box mounted transversely behind the cab of a pick-up vehicle and on the side walls of the pick-up, the arrangement comprising staples secured to the end walls of the box below the end flanges of the doors when the doors are in closed position, and a steep strap extending from below one staple, over the top of the closed box and down to a point beyond the other staple, and in conformity with the surface of the closed box over which the strap means extends, each end of the strap being slotted to enable the link of the staple beyond which it extends to be passed through the slot and to receive the link of a padlock which is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Inventor: William Hoogland
  • Patent number: 4997117
    Abstract: In a roof luggage carrier fastening arrangement on a motor vehicle, a support leg of the roof luggage carrier is extended section-wise to the outside of the body and is retained in position by means of a fastening element, whereby the fastening element is screwed into an internal thread fixed on the body side. In order that the roof luggage carrier, with a simple construction, can be installed on the vehicle rapidly and safe against theft, the fastening element is formed by a threaded pin adjustable from a passenger space, which includes an end-retaining section on the side facing the support leg, over which the support leg is adapted to be slipped by means of a longitudinal slot open in the insert direction. By tightening the threaded pin in the direction of the passenger space, the support leg can be clamped against the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Juergen Durm, Ulrich Hempel
  • Patent number: 4997118
    Abstract: Roof trunk for motor vehicles which has a clamshell-like lid hinged to the preferably likewise clamshell-like trunk body, which in its closed state can be latched by a plurality of latches which are disposed on a longitudinally displaceable locking rod and which can engage in stationary catches. The lid is hinged to the trunk body at one of its short sides and can be joined at both longitudinal sides to the trunk body by a plurality of spaced latches, and the locking rods are connected at both longitudinal sides to a common actuating mechanism through corner-turning devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Assignee: Jetbag GmbH
    Inventors: Horst Uebach, Siegfried Deisenhofer
  • Patent number: 4995538
    Abstract: A rack for a motor-vehicle roof comprises a pair of bridges (10) each having a cross member (12), a pair of box-shaped feet (14) for bearing on the roof (T) and a connector for hooking and fixing each foot on to the edge (B) of the roof, such as the drainage channel or the upper edge of a door opening. Each cross member (12) is slidably inserted in respective transverse passages formed in the upper parts of the feet (14) and pressure members are associated with each transverse passage, respectively, for clamping the cross member (12) in an adjusted position. The hooking and fixing connector for each bridge (10) is comprised of an inextensible strap (18) which passes through each foot (14), through an opening in an outer wall of the foot and which is provided, outside this outer wall, with a rigid, shaped hook (20), which is replaceable by other similar hooks of different shapes, for hooking on the edge (B) of the roof (T). At least one of the two feet (14) incorporates a device for tensioning the strap (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: FAPA S.p.A.
    Inventor: Osvaldo Marengo
  • Patent number: 4993615
    Abstract: An anchorage device for a load carrier intended for a vehicle roof (3) includes a strut (1) which extends across the vehicle roof (3) and has, in each end, an anchorage foot (2). The anchorage foot is provided with a support arrangement (4) for transferring loading to the vehicle roof, and also with anchorage members for fixedly retaining the anchorage foot (2) to the vehicle. According to the invention, the support arrangement is provided with two support members (17) which are pivotally retained in the anchorage foot (2) so as to pivot towards and away from one another, and have obliquely inclined grooves (22) for locking accommodation of projections or pins (14) secured in the vehicle. The support members are of platelike configuration so as to be able to extend down into narrow spaces (9, 10, 12) in the vehicle and there engage with the projections or pins (14) and are provided, in their lower edges, with support surfaces (16) for abutment against the bottom (10) of the space (9, 10, 12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Industri AB Thule
    Inventor: Jan-Ivar Arvidsson
  • Patent number: 4974766
    Abstract: A vehicle roof top carrier having a base which is secured removably to the roof rack of a vehicle. A hard, aerodynamically shaped cover closes over the base, thereby protecting the contents of the carrier from the elements. The base has a plurality of downwardly opened channels to enable the base to fit over the vehicle roof rack and in close proximity to the vehicle roof. Removable fastening devices, protectably disposed within the carrier, secure elements of the rack within the channels to hold the carrier securely and removably in place over the rack. Thus, when the cover, which can be locked to the base, is in its closed position, the means of attachment of the base to the vehicle roof rack is protected from access by unauthorized persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Assignee: Sportstore Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Vince F. DiPalma, L. R. Niguet
  • Patent number: 4955519
    Abstract: The ski case is a slim depth rectangular container designed to store, transport, and act as an overall ski equipment handling device. The case has two relatively asymmetrical major components--the top being the closure component of a ski equipment storage device as well as a sled to enable the transport of skis, boots, poles, and other miscellaneous ski-related material from the vehicle parking lot to the base lodge or elsewhere without the inconvenience and difficulty associated with carrying such items on one's person. The lower half of the case acts as the support and pivot for the top half as well as the mechanism for carrying the ski case on a motor vehicle roof or trunk. The lower half has a quick disconnect male-female dovetail system for easy and rapid removal from the auto roof top. The two components are lined with a velcro attached foam rubber which acts as the frictional support and restraint of the ski case contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Inventor: Keith E. Forrester