Carrier Attached To Truck Bed Portion Of Vehicle Patents (Class 224/403)
  • Publication number: 20090166390
    Abstract: A cargo carrier kit for a truck comprises a plurality of first rail sections for joining end to end to provide a first side rail. The cargo carrier also includes a plurality of second rail sections for joining end to end to provide a second side rail having a separation from the first side rail and a parallel relationship thereto. A forward load bar, supportable on the first side rail and the second side rail provides a connection over the cab of the truck, between the side rails. The cargo carrier kit also includes mounting blocks for releasable attachment of at least a first load bar and at least a second load bar to provide cross members connecting the side rails and positioning the first and second load bars respectively over the mid-section and rear of the truck bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Flaherty
  • Patent number: 7543873
    Abstract: A roll-out drawer system for a vehicle comprising a planar framework comprising a plurality of pipe-over-pipe mechanisms. The roll-out drawer travels over the planar framework permitting the drawer to travel lengthwise from an internal position within the bed of the vehicle to an external position where the drawer is partially extended from the bed. The pipe-over-pipe planar framework permits the user to gain access to the drawer to load, position and unload contents that would otherwise be difficult to reach within the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Warren Thornsberry
  • Patent number: 7530618
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo storage system attaches to a truck bed, providing a plurality of beams that can support individual fasteners (e.g. eyebolts) to which cables can attach for securing a load. Alternatively, a load carrying module having a cargo deck and an under deck storage area is affixable to the beams. Optional devices (e.g. toolbox, grill, table, storage containers/boxes) can be supported upon the cargo deck or under deck storage area of the load carrying module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventors: Manuel Collins, Dorrick Prentice
  • Patent number: 7494171
    Abstract: Truck bed tool box. The truck bed tool box includes a tool box holder attachable to a bed of a truck and plural removable tool boxes that fit securely into the tool box holder. The tool box holder includes security mechanism to keep the plural removable tool boxes safe from theft and prevent them from moving around the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Todd E. Martin, Kerry E. Martin
  • Publication number: 20090026784
    Abstract: A rack for pickup trucks configured to carry cargo above the truck bed. The rack is easily installed on and removed from the truck without requiring drilling or other modifications to the truck and is configured to carry heavy loads while utilizing lightweight materials. The rack has a pair of rack assemblies that each comprise a span member, a downwardly disposed engaging member attached to the span member, a leg member engaged at its upper end with the engaging member, a gusset member interconnecting the span, engaging and leg members and an improved clamp assembly to removably secure the rack to the truck bedrails. One span member is partially received in the other span member to form an interconnected span member. Preferably, for added strength, the engaging member is outwardly inclined and configured to be received inside the tubular upper end of the inwardly inclined leg member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Phillip Green
  • Publication number: 20080314945
    Abstract: A collapsible cargo carrier (A) is installed on the bed (B) of a pickup truck. A pair of posts (3, 13) each have one end hingedly connected to one end of respective base rails (1, 11) for raising and lowering the posts. A pair of second posts (4, 14) each have one end slidably received in a slot (C) formed in the respective first posts. The slots extend substantially the length of the first posts for the second posts to be moved relative thereto. A pair of top rails (8, 18) each have one end connected to the other end of the respective first posts. The other end of each second post is slidably received in a slot in the respective top rails. Movable load clamps (9, 30) extend between the top rails to accommodate cargo of different sizes and clamp the cargo in place on the top of the carrier. The carrier construction allows different sizes and shapes of cargo to be conveniently and safely transported from one place to another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Verlin V. Gibson
  • Patent number: 7410081
    Abstract: A support structure for a spare tire on a vehicle. A shell is attached to the vehicle and includes first and second end portions and a bottom portion extending at least partially between the first and second end portions. The shell at least partially defines a spare tire storage chamber and includes an opening providing access to the storage chamber, wherein the opening is adjacent to the first end portion. The support member is slidably positioned above the bottom portion and is movable back and forth along a movement path from a first position in which the support member is substantially disposed within the shell and a second position in which the support member is at least partially disposed outside the shell. In certain embodiments, a retention member can be fixedly attached to the shell. In further embodiments, the support member and the shell have a cooperative locking configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kerry Stephen McClure, Brian David Shanfeld, David Michael Edwards
  • Publication number: 20080173684
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention comprises means for carrying a long article in a vehicle, such as a pickup truck which comprises restraining means for one end of a long article and a longitudinally adjustable strap attached or attachable to each side of the restraining means, the opposite ends of the traps having means for attachment or being attachable to the vehicle or pickup truck. The longitudinally adjustable straps may be tightened to secure the long article by abutment against a vertical face of the vehicle, such as the front wall of the bed of a pickup truck. Another embodiment of the invention comprises a method of using the above described means for carrying a long article in a vehicle and another embodiment of the invention comprises a long article secured in a vehicle using the above described means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Adam T. Kyasky
  • Publication number: 20080101883
    Abstract: A rail attachment mount and method of use is provided for attaching a mount to a rail. The rail comprises a track with a pair of flanges and the mount comprises a track receiving cavity and a pair of flanges defining an opening to the cavity. A first of the flanges of the track is inserted into the track receiving cavity of the mount through the opening. The mount is pivoted so as to insert a second of the flanges of the track into the track receiving cavity of the mount through the opening and the mount is fastened to the rail such that a tightened, secure attachment is established with the flanges of the mount being forcibly engaged with the flanges of the track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas E. Derecktor
  • Publication number: 20080054036
    Abstract: A surfboard is secured within a truck bed allowing ease of insertion and removal. A Z-shaped bar defines a proximal bar portion, a medial bar portion and a distal bar portion. A clamp is engaged with the proximal bar portion. A compliant sleeve covers the distal bar portion, and an elastic cord formed with loops at opposing ends is stretched over the distal bar portion. The clamp is fastened to a side flange of the truck bed and the distal portion is positioned on top of the tailgate so that a surfboard placed into the truck bed rests at one end on the bed of the truck and is held between the sleeve and the cord at the other end while resting on the sleeve. The cord safely clamps the surfboard in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventors: Donald S. Egigian, Steve Goebel
  • Publication number: 20080054035
    Abstract: A wheel mount for storing and transporting a wheel, such as a spare bicycle wheel, is disclosed. The wheel mount is preferably substantially smaller that the wheel and attaches to an automobile or an automobile-mounted transportation rack. In one embodiment, the wheel mount attaches to a truck bed railing and has a slot for accepting a portion of an axle of a bicycle wheel, the slot restricting at least some movement of the bicycle wheel. In some embodiments, a cam mechanism common to many bicycle wheel axles can be engaged to further restrict movement of the bicycle wheel while it is in the wheel mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventor: Lee Walker
  • Patent number: 7338104
    Abstract: A transfigurable bed liner assembly mountable on a vehicle including a bed. The assembly may include a channel mountable to each side wall of the vehicle, and a transfigurable bed liner including a plurality of rollers disposable in the channels for permitting sliding of the transfigurable bed liner. The transfigurable bed liner may include a leg generally adjacent a first end thereof for supporting the transfigurable bed liner in an extended position, for use of the bed liner, for example, as a workbench and for permitting loading of heavy objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Peter Bejin
  • Publication number: 20080047994
    Abstract: A bike-holding system for transporting one or more two-wheeled vehicles in a bed of a transportive vehicle includes a first holder comprising a plate interrupted by one or more elongated slots, each slot being adapted to receive a first wheel of a two-wheeled vehicle, which first wheel may be either a front or rear wheel. The plate is inclined at an angle to the plane of the bed. The system may include a second holder comprising a second plate interrupted by one or more elongated slots or pairs of rails, each of the elongated slots or rail pairs being adapted to receive a second wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle. A two-wheeled vehicle thus installed in a holder or holders of the invention is restrained from lateral (tipping) motion or vertical motion with respect to the bed by one or more hold-downs attached to the two-wheeled vehicle and the transporting vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Henry E. Beamer, Susan W. Beamer
  • Publication number: 20080023510
    Abstract: Sectional bicycle rack for carrying a bicycle in the bed of a vehicle, having adjustable length horizontal cross member bars at the top and base which when extended form a pressure clamp to the side walls of the vehicle bed for an easy and non-intrusive installation. The number of bicycles to be carried is adjusted by adding additional rack sections. Additionally, support brackets can be used to bolt the top cross member to the vehicle bed for permanent installation, added support or security.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: James C. Falk
  • Patent number: 7322499
    Abstract: Provided is a sports rack configured to be mounted on a truck bed. The truck bed may have a front wall, a rear tail gate and a pair of elongate side walls extending therebetween. Each one of the side walls may have a bed rail. The sports rack comprises a front frame member, a rear frame member and a plurality of channel lengths. The front frame member is disposed adjacent the front wall and extends between the side walls. The rear frame member is disposed over the rear tail gate and also extends between the side walls. The plurality of channel lengths extends horizontally between the front and rear frame members. Each of the front and rear frame members comprises a pair of upright end plates that may be used to mount the sports rack on the bed rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Ron D. Storer
  • Patent number: 7309202
    Abstract: A system for transporting and storing a portable combination table/ramp device in a truck bed, including a substantially flat platform supported by a plurality of support members positioned between the platform and the truck bed and defining a plurality of elongated recesses therebetween. Elongated table top portion and elongated bench seat portions with tailgate-engaging portions connected thereto are received in the recesses. A plurality of retractable table leg assemblies are connected to the table top portion. A connector is coupled to each respective table leg assembly for connecting the elongated bench seat portion thereto. Each respective table leg assembly is retractable to a storage position substantially adjacent the elongated table top portion and extendable to a deployed position extending between the table top portion and the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Michael D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7281737
    Abstract: A unitary ballast device for attachment to the rear portion of a pickup truck cargo bed using mounting pins, chain links, shackles and affixed eyelets in the interior of the vehicle cargo bed. The ballast device is composed of steel or other heavy metal, and the surface coated in rubber to reduce damage to the cargo bed and any cargo present in the cargo bed. The device is positioned laterally at the rear of the vehicle bed and is releasable by detaching from affixed eyelets in the cargo bed and can be modified to include a second metal base for increased dampening effect. The device can remain in place with cargo loads present with little risk of damage to the load due to the beveled edges and rubber coating of the base, thereby increasing ease of use and efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: William Gregory Ellis
  • Patent number: 7270360
    Abstract: A storage unit installed in a compartment of a motor vehicle such as the bed of a pickup truck and a method of distributing such devices. Embodiments include a cover, a support structure, and a rawer and may have the same horizontal dimensions as the compartment or bed but sit below the wheel wells to allow bulky cargo to be carried. Embodiments include a slanted drawer face to facilitate rolling or sliding cargo onto the device, a seal to prevent dirt or sand from getting under the cover, cutouts in the cover for the wheel wells, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, movable dividers are installed in the drawer to form separate storage areas. The method of distribution includes providing identical drawers, providing different size covers for different vehicles, providing support structures, and installing or selling the storage devices with identical drawers but different size covers, for instance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Diezal, Ltd.
    Inventors: James R. Frasure, Matthew D. Sheldon
  • Patent number: 7246731
    Abstract: The present invention provides a transport rack for use in securing cargo in a transport vehicle. The transport rack preferably comprises a frame assembly mounted to a support surface at a lower end of a pair of telescoping legs, and to opposing sidewalls at the distal end of a pair of telescoping arms. The transport rack further comprises a clamping assembly mounted to the frame assembly, wherein the clamping assembly has a rotatable shaft, at least two hook members mounted to the shaft for rotation between an open position and a clamped position, and a fixed arm member mounted subjacent each of the at least two hook members. The present invention further comprises means for selectively changing the height of the clamping assembly above the support surface, and means for selectively varying the distance between the hook members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Bernard A. Matherne, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7234618
    Abstract: A collapsible storage container is connected to upwardly extending vehicle structure adjacent to a vehicle support bed. The storage container incorporates interconnected components which facilitate changing the storage container between a non-collapsed configuration and collapsed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Dan Warganich
  • Patent number: 7198185
    Abstract: Provided is a sports rack configured to be mounted on a truck bed. The truck bed may have a front wall, a rear tail gate and a pair of elongate side walls extending therebetween. Each one of the side walls may have a bed rail. The sports rack comprises a front frame member, a rear frame member and a plurality of channel lengths. The front frame member is disposed adjacent the front wall and extends between the side walls. The rear frame member is disposed over the rear tail gate and also extends between the side walls. The plurality of channel lengths extends horizontally between the front and rear frame members. Each of the front and rear frame members comprises a pair of upright end plates that may be used to mount the sports rack on the bed rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Xtreme Metal Fab., Inc.
    Inventor: Ron D. Storer
  • Patent number: 7175060
    Abstract: A securing bracket for mounting a bed slide in a vehicle storage area is disclosed. The bed slide-mounting bracket is characterized by a body with a protrusion. The protrusion is formed comprising a cavity sufficient to affix the bed slide-mounting bracket to the vehicle storage area using pre-existing vehicle hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: IFW, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith A. Carpenter, Steve Robinson, Dan Marshall
  • Patent number: 7159917
    Abstract: A utility table and storage apparatus for use in vehicles such as pickup trucks having a truck bed includes three main parts: a main frame, a rail system, and a tool storage system. The main frame is made up of a frame assembly with four collapsible legs. The legs have wheels, and are adjustable in height. The main frame forms the support structure for the work table, the top of which is preferably covered by a 4 ft. by 8 ft. piece of metal, plywood, or other suitable material. When the main frame/table portion is outside the truck bed, it rests on the four legs with the wheels attached, allowing it to be moved around. The rail system consists of three components, the anchor frame, the guide frame, and the transfer frame. The anchor frame is bolted down to the bed of the truck. The guide frame guides the transfer frame during movements of the main frame, and is temporarily bolted to the anchor frame, but can be removed if needed to allow the full use of the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Bjorn Haaberg
  • Patent number: 7159902
    Abstract: A vehicle bed liner apparatus includes a peripherally sealed flexible top wall and flexible bottom wall for containing a quantity of ballast liquid, e.g. water. Compartment boundary means are located at plural internal non-peripheral regions between the flexible top wall and the flexible bottom wall. The compartment boundary means are in contact with the flexible top wall and the flexible bottom wall. The compartment boundary means define internal compartment boundaries. The plural non-peripheral compartment boundaries and plural internal non-peripheral regions between the flexible top wall and the flexible bottom wall that are not in contact with the compartment boundaries define plural ballast compartments internal to the wall means. The ballast compartments are in communication with each other. A combination fill and drain valve in the flexible top wall is provided for filling the ballast compartments with a water and for emptying the water from the ballast compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Marty J. Carty
  • Patent number: 7104429
    Abstract: A rack device with a height adjustable depending on the cargo carried and the size of the vehicle used. The rack device includes a pair of end portions each comprising a first bar and a second bar coupled to and extending upwardly away from the first bar. A third bar is coupled to and extends away from the second bar. A fourth bar is coupled to and extends upwardly away from the third bar. A fifth bar is removably coupled to and extends between the second bars of each of the end portions. A sixth bar is removably coupled to and extends between the first bar of each of the end portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Zealla Flores
  • Patent number: 7055844
    Abstract: A trailer hitch storage apparatus designed to carry a removable trailer hitch used in receiver type hitches. The apparatus consists of a frame comprising a mounting plate, at least one bracket for supporting the trailer hitch extending from the mounting plate, a center hanger that extends through the hitch pin hole on the trailer hitch, and a mounting arrangement for attaching the mounting plate to the vehicle. Alternative embodiments accommodate attachment to a truck or a vehicle such as an SUV having an enclosed compartment. A quick-folding collapsible apparatus having the same general structure is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas Bostedt
  • Patent number: 7055724
    Abstract: The support unit is essentially a box-like structure having a bottom, a top, two opposing side walls, a front door, a locking device for the front door, and a rear wall opposing the front door. The front door is pivotally attached to the side walls and positioned to allow a tool box or other container to be removed from, or placed into the support unit when the door is open and to prevent removal of the container when the door is closed. The container support unit is designed to securely hold a toolbox, or other box-like container, such as a U.S. Army-issue ammunition can. The support unit can be mounted to the side wall of the cargo area of a pickup truck, under the top rail of the cargo area sidewall, in front or behind the wheel well and suspended above the floor of the cargo area. The support unit can also be mounted on other vehicles, such as a boat, or any other suitable structure, such as a garage wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Steven N. Farentinos
  • Patent number: 7051909
    Abstract: A cargo carrier (10) for bicycles (Y1, Y2) is removably installable in the bed (B) of a truck (T) and has a base plate (12) which mounts on top of the truck bed. One side of the base plate bears against one wall (W1) of the truck bed and an adjustable stop (14) is adjustable to bear against the opposite wall (W2) so to allow the carrier to be installed in trucks having different bed widths. Saddles (40) have risers (42) extending vertically upwardly from the base plate. An attachment screw (62) extending between the risers is used for securing bicycles to the carrier. The base plate may include an offset section so two bicycles can be carried in a side-by-side, staggered formation. The saddles are removable and can be replaced with posts or mounts for carrying other items in the bed. The carrier is in kit form for quick assembly, when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Verlin V. Gibson
  • Patent number: 7048483
    Abstract: The purpose of this invention is to carry two ATVs on a short bed pickup. The platform is designed so that each ATV straddles a side of the bed. ATVs rest almost 10 inches lower than most ATV racks for lower center of gravity and added stability. The wheels drop into an opening that restricts movement from front to back and from left to right. One person can assemble the parts by themselves. ATVs can be driven onto support platform on back of truck on a ramp angled at approximately 30 degrees. Wind resistance is reduced because ATVs are facing forward. Driver can still see behind vehicle through rear view mirror because of space between ATVs. Platform design allows for storage underneath the ATVs. Parts can be integrated for storage in a space approximately 102? long, 24? high, and 24? deep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Bill Wesley Brown
  • Patent number: 6974058
    Abstract: A load rack is for use in carrying long loads in a pickup truck having a bed and a tailgate. The rack can include a load bar supported by a left stance on one end and by a right stance on the other end. A footer section on each stance including a lower surface adapted to rest on the truck bed and a down turned portion extending below the lower surface to engage the space between the truck bed and tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Stevenson
  • Patent number: 6971563
    Abstract: A ladder rack assembly for a work vehicle comprises first and second tubular extrusions that are designed to extend across the width dimension of the vehicle above its roof line where the extrusion is designed to include a pair of parallel channels including a wedge-shaped flange whereby clamping plates may be coupled to the flanges for rigidly joining the extruded cross members to vertically extending support legs. The support legs themselves may have the same cross sectional profile as the extruded cross member when the ladder rack assembly is to be affixed to the box of a pickup truck. Alternatively, a special clamping mechanism is provided for coupling the cross members of the ladder rack assembly to the rain diverter rail of the motor vehicle when the ladder rack assembly is to be used with a van, SUV or panel truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Avraham Y. Levi
  • Patent number: 6926348
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an enclosed cargo area having a floor with a recessed area. A reversible load floor covers the recess, and includes a first, substantially flat surface and a second surface with a perimetric wall projecting therefrom. The reversible load floor is configured to cover the recess in a first position wherein the first surface is substantially flush with the surrounding floor, and in a second inverted position wherein the second surface is substantially flush with the surrounding floor. In the second position, the perimetric wall projects upwardly to form a basin for receiving cargo in a fluid tight manner to prevent spillage in the rest of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Eberhard Krueger, Preston Reynolds, Jeffery E Long, Al Maceri, Dennis Walden
  • Patent number: 6913175
    Abstract: A load carrier has a pair of rails each being affixed to one of the two side walls of the open bed of a pickup truck. Each rail has a longitudinally extending slot along which a bar slides. A bracket is connected to each bar. The two ends of a stringer are connected to the two brackets so that stringer extends transversely across the open bed for supporting a load. Instead of bars, clamps are used to connect the brackets to the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Donald Martin
  • Patent number: 6883849
    Abstract: A truck bed extender that enables a user to load and unload heavy loads from a truck bed. The apparatus includes a lower frame longitudinally aligned and securely mounted inside the truck bed. Disposed inside the lower frame is a sliding intermediate frame with at least one length adjustable leg attached at its distal end that supports the distal end of the intermediate frame in an extended position. During assembly, the proximal end of the intermediate frame slides into, and extends from, the lower frame. Disposed longitudinally over the lower frame and the intermediate frame is a moveable upper frame with a support panel attached thereto. When the intermediate frame is fully extended from the truck bed, the upper frame may move longitudinally rearward from the truck bed and onto the intermediate frame so that cargo may be loaded or unloaded onto the support panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Gerald Hebert
  • Patent number: 6863198
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transport of a propane tank for filling includes a clamp assembly that is adapted for attachment to a portion of a sidewall of a pickup truck. A removable assembly is detachably-attachable with respect to the clamp assembly. The removable assembly includes a pivoting plate that is adapted to receive a bottom of a propane tank thereon, and a band assembly that is adapted to secure an upper portion of the propane tank. The pivoting plate is adapted to pivot upward for storage and the band assembly is adapted to pivot downward for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Wyland Darby
  • Publication number: 20040262347
    Abstract: A motorcycle rack for supporting a motorcycle in a generally upright position on the bed of a truck or trailer has a main support member transversing the bed to connect to and be supported by a first and second support assembly. The motorcycle rack has one or more wheel chock assemblies on the main support member for receiving a motorcycle wheel and supporting the motorcycle while the user places restraints, when necessary, around the motorcycle. The support assemblies and/or wheel chock assemblies can include loops for securing the motorcycle. One or more moveable tie-down holds can also be placed on main support member. The support assemblies can be removably mounted on the sidewall of the vehicle using a side member and clamp or mounted to the bed using a leg and receiver combination. Cradling or clamping wheel chock assemblies can be utilized to cradle or clamp the motorcycle's wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher Phillip Green
  • Patent number: 6834786
    Abstract: A bicycle hauling rack for the bed of a pickup truck is disclosed. The rack increases the number of bicycles which can be hauled damage-free in the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Clifton Hansen
  • Patent number: 6832798
    Abstract: A truck rack with a platform mounts over a pickup bed and within a pickup canopy, leaving a generally unobstructed view through the pickup rear window. The platform is supported above the cab rear window in its store position but lowered on one end for loading as the other end pivots on a frame. To minimize valuable space within the canopy above the window, the platform locates in store position between upper frame members. In a preferred embodiment, the rack is supported in a supplemental frame that pivots on a primary frame forward in the truck bed. When released from a lock position, the rack moves longitudinally, forward and rearward in the truck bed, in the supplemental frame for ease of loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Joshua Krause
  • Patent number: 6832709
    Abstract: A holder and method of use are provided for storing a ball mount having a stem and a ball supported on the stem in a ball hitch in which the stem is slidably received within a receiver supported on a vehicle. The holder includes a pocket for slidably receiving the stem therein and mounting means for mounting the pocket on a supporting surface of the vehicle, for example a side wall of a truck box. The use of a pocket with suitable mounting means for mounting to a supporting surface of the vehicle while securing the stem of a ball mount therein provides proper storage for ball mounts which are not in use. The result is that potentially damaging or annoying sliding movement of the ball mounts within a moving vehicle can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Dwayne E. Henry
  • Patent number: 6817653
    Abstract: A series of structural panels are installed on a bed of a trailer or truck and interconnected by channels to support a roof structure and roll-up or swing-up doors between panels. Storage and display spaces between panels use V-channels and U-channels as long bins or shelving with sides. A doorway at the back end allows access to an interior aisle between the storage and display spaces. A pivotable ramp to the back doorway pivots up to form part of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: David A. Ropp
  • Patent number: 6802553
    Abstract: The floral carrier for truck bed is a hollow truck bed cover having a front section and a rear section capable of rotating upward and towards the front section to provide access to the storage area formed by the cover. The rear section of the cover would angle rearward and slightly upward from the front section of the cover. A hand grasp extending from the rear section would facilitate its upwards rotation. The cover would feature multiple low profile bars along the tops of both sections and to which floral arrangements could be attached. The cover would be attached to the truck bed with a set of clips formed to interact with existing hardware in the bed of a pickup truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Virgil L. Sanders
  • Publication number: 20040159690
    Abstract: A bicycle hauling rack for the bed of a pickup truck is disclosed. The rack increases the number of bicycles which can be hauled damage-free in the bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Clifton Hansen
  • Publication number: 20040155082
    Abstract: A storage box for a cargo bay of a vehicle including a conveyor on which items, e.g., tools and materials, are stored. The conveyor is actuatable to move the items in a pre-selected direction, preferably toward the side or rear of the vehicle cargo bay to provide easy access to the items. In another aspect, the storage box includes fold-out shelving. The shelving includes multiple panels hinged together. A first panel is hingedly connected to an intermediate panel, which is hingedly connected to a second panel, which is pivotally connected to the storage box. The panels are operable in (a) a collapsed mode, where the panels fold substantially vertically against one another, and (b) an extended mode, where the first panel moves outwardly to a substantially vertical position and the intermediate and pivot panel pivot downward to a substantially horizontal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventors: Charles J. Steffens, James P. Sheeran
  • Patent number: 6766913
    Abstract: A supporting device is provided for supporting a saddle on a truck having a truck box with a plurality of stake pockets formed along respective sides of the box. The supporting device comprises a post arranged to be slidably mounted within one of the stake pockets of the truck and a support frame extending laterally outwardly from one side of the post which is suitably arranged to support the saddle thereon. The slidable mounting of the saddle supporting device within one of the stake pockets provides a support for supporting a saddle thereon regardless of where the saddle is being used. The device is thus portable with the truck to provide a suitable supporting surface for a saddle even when away from the stable or related area where the horses upon which the saddle is to be used are normally kept. A suitable bracket may also be provided for supporting the post on a wall or other related supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventors: Irwin Steen, David Steen
  • Patent number: 6763985
    Abstract: A truck bed cargo stabilizer and organizer portable apparatus is provided for storing, stabilizing and organizing items placed in the bed of a pickup truck. The truck bed cargo stabilizer and organizer apparatus is comprised of a hollow structure for a bed of a truck having an upper portion and a lower portion forming a T-shape with a generally flat upper surface which includes a plurality of bucket receiving cylinders and a toolbox receiving cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventors: Newlyn Stephenson, Sr., George E. Brown, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040134953
    Abstract: A pick up truck utility rack, includes a curved crossbar of sufficient size to substantially reach opposite ends of a truck bed, each crossbar end being attached to a pivotal locking means designed to be installed on a pick up truck bed and that allows the crossbar to be tilted and securely locked at a plurality of angular positions limited only by the mass and shape of the vehicle. Said pivotal locking means are locked and unlocked by turning a screw with a provided knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Carlos Valadez Perez
  • Patent number: 6752301
    Abstract: A truck rack supports one or more cumbersome items in a truck bed. The truck rack comprises a rectangular frame having two horizontal sides and two vertical sides. The frame has two lower corners and two upper corners. Further, the frame has a pair of opposing legs extend laterally from each of the lower corners and the frame has a pair of opposing articulated arms extending laterally from the upper corners. Each of the opposing articulated arms comprises a plurality of sections joined by hinges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas A. Drolet
  • Publication number: 20040084491
    Abstract: A cargo carrier (10) for bicycles (Y1, Y2) is removably installable in the bed (B) of a truck (T) and has a base plate (12) which mounts on top of the truck bed. One side of the base plate bears against one wall (W1) of the truck bed and an adjustable stop (14) is adjustable to bear against the opposite wall (W2) so to allow the carrier to be installed in trucks having different bed widths. Saddles (40) have risers (42) extending vertically upwardly from the base plate. An attachment screw (62) extending between the risers is used for securing bicycles to the carrier. The base plate may include an offset section so two bicycles can be carried in a side-by-side, staggered formation. The saddles are removable and can be replaced with posts or mounts for carrying other items in the bed. The carrier is in kit form for quick assembly, when needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Verlin V. Gibson
  • Publication number: 20040079779
    Abstract: A carrying tray assembly for the rear of a sport utility vehicle. The assembly is suspended from sections of the sports bar arrangement and permits easy access to any items on the tray of the assembly. The assembly also permits other gear to be placed below the tray on the floor of the rear deck of the vehicle and covered with a tonneau if desired to protect the gear from the elements. The assembly has front and rear supporting systems that are adjustable to fit a variety of sport bar designs. Additionally, because the tray is suspended from sections of the sports bar arrangement rearwardly of the driver's and front passenger's seats, traditional half tops and windscreens can also be used on the vehicle at the same time as the carrying tray assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Richard C. Essig
  • Patent number: 6726073
    Abstract: A boat-carrying rack which is removably fitted to the bed of a pickup truck for carrying a pirogue or other lightweight boat on the truck. In a preferred embodiment, the boat-carrying rack is characterized by an elongated, rectangular rack frame having a pair of fixed outriggers and two pairs of padded, lever-operated foot plates mounted on adjustable outriggers which are selectively extended from opposite sides of the rack frame, respectively, to engage the opposing side walls of the pickup truck bed and removably secure the rack frame in the bed. The rack frame receives the boat, and a bow mount provided on the front end of the rack frame is removably fastened to the bow of the boat by means of a cord. A pair of upward-standing boat guides provided on respective sides of the rack frame receive an adjustable tie-down strap for securing the boat on the rack frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Sutton