Pivotable Patents (Class 224/502)
  • Patent number: 8960574
    Abstract: The hitch bar with swivel has a proximal portion that attaches removably to the conventional receiver hitch receptacle of a supporting vehicle and a distal portion for supporting an apparatus, e.g., spreader for distributing animal feed, etc., thereon. The distal bar portion is positioned to overlay the proximal portion and to place the supported apparatus close to the rear of the supporting vehicle during operations in order to reduce the lever arm and corresponding bending loads on the hitch receptacle. The distal portion of the bar may be swiveled clear of the rear of the vehicle to allow the rear door (tailgate, rear hatch, etc.) of the vehicle to be opened when the vehicle is stopped. The distal bar portion and apparatus supported thereon have a combined length preferably less than half the width of the vehicle, permitting the bar to be swiveled freely without extending laterally beyond the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Harvey Hernandez
  • Publication number: 20140326767
    Abstract: A bicycle rack used to attach a bicycle to the rear of a motor vehicle. The bicycle rack is fixedly attached to the bicycle when the bicycle is operated as well as when it is transported on the motor vehicle. The bicycle rack includes two swing arms movable from a first position when the bicycle is being utilized to a second transverse position used to attach the bicycle rack and the bicycle to the rear of a motor vehicle. A plurality of retractable cables is used to assist in attaching the bicycle rack and the bicycle to the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: Tyler Nelson
  • Publication number: 20140291370
    Abstract: A sporting goods carrier combines the standardized racks and flexibility of a car top carrier with the ease of access and gas conservation of a hitch mounted carrier by providing standard roof rails extending parallel to the mount (and thus parallel to the vehicle) so that sporting equipment such as bicycles, skis and so on may be carried cross-wise to the vehicle at the rear. Using standardized load bars allows the hitch mounted device to accept the many types of roof rack sports equipment carriers already on the market. Load bars may be tilted, U-shaped, moved in and outward and the mount may be rotated below bumper level to allow easy loading and unloading of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Norman Donnigan
  • Publication number: 20140217141
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying a bicycle adjacent the rear of a vehicle. The bicycle rack includes an adjustable frame assembly having a first frame member attached to a housing and a second frame member attached to a connecting member. The connecting member is rotationally coupled to the housing to allow relative pivotal movement between the first and second frame members. A locking member is disposed within the housing and selectively movable between a first position, in which the locking member engages the connecting member to impede relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing, and a second position, in which the locking member is disengaged from the connecting member to allow relative rotational movement between the connecting member and the housing. At least one support arm is coupled to the housing and configured for sliding and pivotal movement between a stowed position and an extended position in which the arm engages the housing to support a bicycle adjacent the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Yakima Innovation Development Corporation
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settlemayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Publication number: 20140027484
    Abstract: A collapsible bicycle rack to be transported at the rear of a motor vehicle for carrying bicycles that are suspended vertically and upside down relative to one another. The bicycle rack includes a vertical main support bar. An upper front wheel support basket is pivotally coupled to the main support bar to receive and retain the front wheels of the bicycles. A lower rear wheel support arm is pivotally coupled to the main support bar below the upper front wheel support basket to receive the rear wheels of the bicycles. The upper front wheel support basket and the lower rear wheel support arm are simultaneously rotated from an expanded deployed configuration extending outwardly from the vertical main support bar to a compact folded configuration lying generally side-by-side the vertical main support bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Strahan Lingjerde Loken
  • Patent number: 8573456
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted bicycle carrier having an elongated shaft with a splined profile along at least a portion of its length, a plurality of rotatable members removably mounted to the shaft and a plurality of collar assemblies removably mounted to the shaft. The plurality of members feature a first member having at least one arm with an aperture defined by an edge having a grooved profile in cross-section that is suitable for mating with the portion of the shaft having the splined profile. The plurality of members also having additional members that are suitable for rotating about the splined portion of the shaft. The plurality of members having a plurality of interlocking teeth that facilitate in securing the members together at the desired angular relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Swiss Cargo Industries S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Farber
  • Publication number: 20130284832
    Abstract: The hitch bar with swivel has a proximal portion that attaches removably to the conventional receiver hitch receptacle of a supporting vehicle and a distal portion for supporting an apparatus, e.g., spreader for distributing animal feed, etc., thereon. The distal bar portion is positioned to overlay the proximal portion and to place the supported apparatus close to the rear of the supporting vehicle during operations in order to reduce the lever arm and corresponding bending loads on the hitch receptacle. The distal portion of the bar may be swiveled clear of the rear of the vehicle to allow the rear door (tailgate, rear hatch, etc.) of the vehicle to be opened when the vehicle is stopped. The distal bar portion and apparatus supported thereon have a combined length preferably less than half the width of the vehicle, permitting the bar to be swiveled freely without extending laterally beyond the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: HARVEY HERNANDEZ
  • Publication number: 20130182454
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for arrangement on the rear end of a motor vehicle in an extendible fashion is provided. The bicycle rack includes a carrying frame, a slide-in element that is displaceably arranged in the carrying frame, and a carrier element that is pivotably arranged on the side-in element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • Patent number: 8469247
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a gas tank includes a bottom element which is mounted to a supporting surface and a cover element pivotally mounted to the cradle. The cover element has at least one device for holding a gas tank. The apparatus further includes a system for rotating the cover element relative to the bottom element so as to raise the gas tank from a storage position to a substantially vertical operational position so that an individual can don the gas tank. In a preferred embodiment, the rotating system includes an L-shaped track attached to the bottom element, a raised portion with an aperture attached to the cover element, and a guide rod which has a first end in the aperture and a second end which engages with and slides in the L-shaped track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: William L Nicoletti
  • Patent number: 8434654
    Abstract: A BOAT HITCHING DEVICE AND CARRYING SYSTEM used for a carrying device for boats. This device is used in and around diving deck of the boat. The device is comprised essentially of two main parts: 1. A case which features a way to fasten the device to the boat; a way to rotate a receptor from a stored position and then securely retain the receptor in an essentially horizontal “use” position; a manner to pivot and securely retain the receptor in the use position; and features to provide a safe, flat deck when the device is in storage and 2. a receptor with a hub to pivotally yet securely connect to the case; a receiver structure to receive the various carrying accessories; and a way to securely retain the accessories. These devices are designed for Original Equipment or After Market offerings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald D. Smith, Mark A. Noffsinger, Robert J. Cline
  • Patent number: 8418902
    Abstract: A telescopic bicycle carrier installed on a vehicle so as to be able to load a bicycle outside the vehicle, may include a guide rail located inside a bumper of the vehicle and fixed to an end of a body of the vehicle, a guide frame slidably installed on the guide rail along a lengthwise direction of the vehicle, a pair of expansion brackets installed on lateral sides of the guide frame and slidable toward or away from each other with respect to the guide frame in a widthwise direction of the vehicle through the guide frame, bicycle wheel fixtures pivotally installed on the pair of expansion brackets to fix wheels of the loaded bicycle, and bicycle body fixtures pivotally installed on the pair of expansion brackets to fix a body of the loaded bicycle, wherein the pair of expansion brackets may be received inside the bumper along with the guide frame in a retracted state where the expansion brackets slide toward each other into the guide frame, and may be extracted from the bumper along with the guide frame if
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Dong Eun Cha, Seung Mok Lee, Sung Won Kim, Hun Soo Kim, Hoo Taek Cho
  • Publication number: 20130062383
    Abstract: A vehicle-mountable bicycle carrier includes a linkage device for mounting the carrier to a vehicle, a base portion or platform to support both wheels of a bicycle, and an arm assembly connected to the base portion. The arm assembly may include a mast member and a jaw member. The jaw member may have a mounting portion received on the mast member and a hook portion attached to the mounting portion and configured to engage a bicycle frame and/or a top portion of a bicycle wheel. The jaw member may have a released configuration where the jaw member, as a unit, is pivotable about and slidable up and down the mast member while the mounting portion remains on the mast member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: YAKIMA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Richard Jeli
  • Publication number: 20130022440
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying bicycles behind a vehicle includes a tongue configured for connection to a vehicle hitch. A base portion includes wheel trays for supporting the wheels of a bicycle in cooperation with a slidable hook for contacting the top tube of a bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: YAKIMA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20130015220
    Abstract: A bicycle rack for carrying a bicycle adjacent the rear of a vehicle. The bicycle rack includes an adjustable frame assembly having a first frame member attached to a second frame member attached At least one support arm is configured for sliding and pivotal movement between a stowed position and an extended position in which the arm engages the housing to support a bicycle adjacent the vehicle. A mounting assembly is positionable on the support arm to hold the bicycle in place during travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: YAKIMA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Duncan Robins, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Scott R. Allen
  • Publication number: 20120298707
    Abstract: Carriers for a bicycle and methods of mounting a bicycle carrier to a vehicle are disclosed. In some examples, the carriers may include a first frame structure configured to couple to a vehicle and a second frame structure configured to couple to the vehicle. The carriers may additionally include a body disposed between the first and second frame structures. The first frame structure may be mounted to the body and the second frame structure may be slidably received within the body. The carriers may further include a first cable device. The first cable device may include a first cable reel rotatably mounted to the body, and a first cable having a first hook end portion configured to attach to a first portion of the vehicle. The first cable may be configured to be wound around the first cable reel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, James Buckroyd, Richard Jeli, Lyle Ramsdale
  • Patent number: 8317068
    Abstract: The bicycle carrier rack includes a main frame, a swaying frame and an adjustment device. The main frame stands vertically, combined with the swaying frame by the adjustment device. Fixed at the bottom portion of the main frame is a positioning rack to connect with a vehicle or a trailer. Two positioning holes are bored in the main frame. The swaying frame is combined with the main frame by the adjustment device, having a positioning member and a positioning projection employed to primarily position with positioning holes of the main frame. The adjustment device has a shell, and a movable element installed in the shell to co-work with the positioning member of the swaying frame. With a starting element to control the movable element, the adjustment device can work to alter the combined status of the main frame and the swaying frame, enabling the bicycle carrier rack unfolded or folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Hern Juei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching-Shu Huang
  • Publication number: 20120292357
    Abstract: A rack for retaining a plurality of modular accessory cubes at the rear of a motor vehicle includes a hitch mounted swing-away carrier supporting an upright post carrying a number of planar platforms which the cubes may be attached to. The cubes may have drawers for supporting equipment such as grills and the like useful for outdoor activities and other modules may comprise electronic entertainment equipment such as audio players, radio and TV receivers, and the like. The platforms and the bases of the modules are formed with complementary engaging sections for positioning the modules on the platform, and threaded fasteners projecting upwardly through the platforms may quickly allow the modules to be secured and released from the platforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: Ty Tennyson, Michael Henley
  • Patent number: 8302829
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle carrier for a vehicle, which is housed in the rear bumper of the vehicle to be concealed and when necessary is drawn out from the rear bumper to carry a bicycle. The bicycle carrier includes a front frame positioned in a rear bumper of the vehicle and secured to a rear end of a vehicle body. A central frame perpendicularly passes through the front frame. A rear frame is secured to a rear end of the central frame. A folding unit couples each of opposite ends of the front frame with each of opposite ends of the rear frame and is folded to vary a distance between the front frame and the rear frame. A bicycle wheel support is provided on the folding unit. A bicycle body support is provided on the central frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Seung Mok Lee, Hee Chan Yang, Dong Eun Cha, Nam Cheol Kim, Kwang Jae Choi, Ju Yong Park, Jo Han Kim, Yong Won Jeong, Kwang Sup Jeong, Jeong Ho Lee
  • Publication number: 20120234883
    Abstract: A versatile rack for carrying one or more bicycles on the rear of a vehicle includes two or more frame structures connected and coordinated through a pair of hubs. One of the frame structures has a pair of parallel arms equipped with saddle mounts and stabilizers for supporting and securing one or more bicycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, James Owen, Richard Jeli
  • Patent number: 8087559
    Abstract: A loading apparatus for allowing wheelchair access to a vehicle is provided. The apparatus attaches to the hitch receiver of the vehicle, such as a van, truck or similar vehicle. The apparatus includes three ramp section pivotably connected such that the apparatus does not obstruct vision through the rear of the vehicle but also provides sufficient ground clearance for operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: David Medina, Joseph Ryan Cox, Carlos Orozco
  • Patent number: 8061572
    Abstract: A cargo carrier having a U-shaped hitch sleeve on its bottom and legs with wheels on its sides. A hitch shaft is inserted into a trailer hitch on a vehicle and the U-shaped hitch sleeve fits over the hitch shaft. The legs have an internal screw type jack mechanism to raise and lower the cargo carrier to place the U-shaped hitch sleeve above and over the hitch shaft, and to raise the legs so that the vehicle can transport the cargo carrier on the hitch shaft without having to remove the legs. The wheels allow the cargo carrier to be portable when not connected to the vehicle. They also allow the U-shaped hitch sleeve to be aligned above the hitch shaft to permit lowering the U-shaped hitch sleeve down over the hitch shaft for the insertion of bolts through the U-shaped hitch sleeve and hitch shaft, thereby fastening the cargo carrier to the hitch shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Lee Myrex
  • Patent number: 8047412
    Abstract: A load carrier for coupling to a vehicle. The load carrier includes a loading frame and a supporting arch that extends substantially upwardly from and transversely to the loading frame. The supporting arch is divisible into first and second arch parts, each of which arch parts is pivotally coupled to the loading frame such that, when divided, each of the first and second arch parts is configured to be pivoted down to a storage position lying substantially level with the loading frame. The arch parts are configured to be interlocked to each other into an in-use position, in which the first and said second arch parts substantially alone form the supporting arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignees: Renault S.A.S., Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Arnaud Premartin, Olivier Veuillot, Hans Odin, Joakim Persson
  • Patent number: 7975888
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier configured to be mounted to a rear of a vehicle is disclosed. The bicycle carrier includes a first support frame structure having a base portion disposed between a pair of support arms configured to carry one or more bicycles, the base portion being configured to contact an upper region of the rear of the vehicle, where the base portion is wider than the distance between the support arms; a second support frame structure having a base portion configured to contact a lower region of the rear of the vehicle; and at least one hub assembly operatively connecting the first and second support frame structures and permitting selective pivoting of one support frame structure relative to the other frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph J. Settelmayer
  • Publication number: 20110031291
    Abstract: A storage container for a vehicle is provided and includes a bottom wall and an outer wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The bottom wall and the outer wall together define a storage compartment. The storage container is configured to be removably secured to a rack of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Philip A. Oakes
  • Publication number: 20110011909
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a mounting base, a main frame mounted on and movable relative to the mounting base, two limit pins each mounted between the main frame and the mounting and a positioning pin mounted on the main frame and detachably locked onto the mounting base. The main frame includes a main tube movably mounted on the mounting base, a plurality of support tubes mounted on the main tube and a plurality of adjusting tubes adjustably mounted on the support tubes. Thus, when the mounting base and the main frame are unlocked from the positioning pin, the main frame is pulled outwardly relative to the mounting base and is disposed at an inclined state, so that the bicycles placed on the main frame are spaced from the trunk of a car to facilitate a user opening the trunk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
  • Patent number: 7857179
    Abstract: A universal folding carrier for carrying objects on tailgates of pickup trucks and trunk lids of automobiles or the like has a substantially U-shaped frame, a substantially U-shaped carrying member and a substantially U-shaped supporting member. The folding carrier is movable between a folded or storage position and a locked extended or operational position. The carrying arm is pivotally mounted to the frame and the supporting member is pivotally mounted to the frame. A latching assembly includes a pair of first brackets. The first brackets are mounted on opposite sides of the frame. A pair of second brackets is mounted to opposite sides of the carrying member, each second bracket having a ramp portion and a latch. A latching assembly with first and second latching members is mounted to the first brackets. Each latching member has an engaging pin, the engaging pins extending from opposite ends of the latching members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: R. A. Allen Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Allen, Alexander R. Allen
  • Patent number: 7832607
    Abstract: A bicycle support rack adapted to be mounted in a hitch receiver of a vehicle including a hollow upstanding tube having a parallel rod running therethrough, both extending from a lower hitch bar upwardly to a top plate. The top plate supporting a pair of rearwardly extending arms upon which one or more bicycles may be mounted for carrying by the vehicle. The tube and internal parallel rod both being adapted to pivot rearwardly while maintaining the bicycle supporting arms in a substantially parallel orientation with the vehicle hitch receiver. The tilting movement of the rack providing improved access to the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Softride, Inc.
    Inventors: Eivind Clausen, James D. Allsop
  • Publication number: 20100264187
    Abstract: Embodiments of a removable tire carrier are disclosed which may be removably affixed to the receiver of a conventional trailer hitch on a conventional vehicle. The tire carrier may be rotated in the plane of the rear of the vehicle such that a portion of the tire carrier touches the ground. A flat or otherwise damaged tire may then be rolled onto the tire carrier and secured to the tire carrier. The tire carrier may be rotated back into position for transporting the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Mark Buskirk
  • Patent number: 7723935
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling an overhead stowage bin compartment in a mobile platform, such as a commercial aircraft. A motor is operatively coupled to the compartment for moving the compartment between open and closed positions. A remotely located control system is in communication with the motor and supplies a current signal to the motor to drive the motor. The control system monitors operation of the motor and senses when the compartment is obstructed by sensing the current being supplied to the motor. The control system also senses a position of the compartment and, along with the computed required current, uses this information to determine if the weight of the compartment exceeds a predetermined maximum threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Heidi J. Kneller, Dennis C. Lin, Bret L. Lamoree, James L. Tylee
  • Publication number: 20100038391
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) carrier assembly for loading and transporting multiple ATVs, motorcycles, and the like. A convertible, rotatable carrier assembly for loading and transporting multiple all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) includes a platform assembly upon which one or more ATV is loaded, the platform assembly being rotatable such that the one or more ATV is loaded selectively from one of a driver, passenger, and rear side of a vehicle and a trailer hitch receiver and a hitch tube disposed upon the trailer hitch receiver for connectivity with a vehicle having a rear hitch. The platform assembly is convertible and rotatable, enabling loading and transportation of multiple ATVs without the need for a trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Bobby Gene Cumbie
  • Publication number: 20090302078
    Abstract: A bicycle rack includes a carry portion having a U-shaped frame and multiple positioning members are connected on the U-shaped frame so as to position bicycles. A Y-shaped support portion includes a post whose top end is connected to two support rods by a clamp unit and the clamp unit includes two slots with which the two supports are securely engaged. The U-shaped frame is connected to the two support rods. A connection portion includes an L-shaped tube which has a first end pivotably connected to a lower end of the post and a second end of the L-shaped tube is connected to a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: CHIU-KUEI WANG
  • Publication number: 20090236382
    Abstract: A compact carrier apparatus includes one or more bicycle carriers. Each carrier includes wheel support sections configured to engage front and rear bicycle wheels, and a stabilizing arm with a gripping member configured to grip one of the wheels. A wheel support section includes a wheel engagement member disposed on an outer edge of the carrier support structure and oriented so that an engaged wheel projects beyond the outer edge. A bracing arm may selectively extend in a cantilevered fashion relative to the support structure to provide an additional load-bearing support point for such a wheel. The stabilizing arm may be mounted to the support structure at a location rearward of a wheel engagement member, and pivotable to a carrying position to grip the wheel. The path of the stabilizing arm, in the carrying position, traverses the center of the wheel and avoids passing over the fork or the brakes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20090152314
    Abstract: A cargo carrier having a U-shaped hitch sleeve on its bottom and legs with wheels on its sides. A hitch shaft is inserted into a trailer hitch on a vehicle and the U-shaped hitch sleeve fits over the hitch shaft. The legs have an internal screw type jack mechanism to raise and lower the cargo carrier to place the U-shaped hitch sleeve above and over the hitch shaft, and to raise the legs so that the vehicle can transport the cargo carrier on the hitch shaft without having to remove the legs. The wheels allow the cargo carrier to be portable when not connected to the vehicle. They also allow the U-shaped hitch sleeve to be aligned above the hitch shaft to permit lowering the U-shaped hitch sleeve down over the hitch shaft for the insertion of bolts through the U-shaped hitch sleeve and hitch shaft, thereby fastening the cargo carrier to the hitch shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Lee Myrex
  • Publication number: 20090095782
    Abstract: A carrying rack for a car includes a mounting sleeve, a plurality of locking members each extending through the mounting sleeve and each having a distal end extending into a mounting chamber of the mounting sleeve, a receiving seat mounted on the mounting sleeve, two main support bars each having a first end pivotally mounted in the receiving seat, and two pivotally connected crossbars each pivotally connected with a second end of a respective main support bar. The mounting sleeve is mounted on a ball of a support seat to encompass the ball completely, and the distal end of each of the locking members presses the periphery of the ball, so that the mounting sleeve is locked onto the ball by limit of the locking members to attach the carrying rack onto the support seat solidly and stably.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Yao-Huang Liu
  • Publication number: 20090090758
    Abstract: Mountain Mike's Reproductions ATV Gun Rack/Pop-up Shooting Rest is a rack to be mounted on an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle). This rack will hold a gun or rifle securely for travel and double as a shooting rest when stopped. Its appearance is similar to many ATV gun mounted rack. The difference is its ability to be released on one end and with the use of gas spring pop-up and double as a shooting rest. It will be mounted to pop-up to the left for left handed shooters or turned around to pop-up to the right for right handed shooters. The one side of the rack which comes up is levered to maintain a vertical position and rotates 360 degrees to work as a shooting rest. It can be used from a stationary ATV in the riding position or by off-mounted riders around the ATV. While traveling, the rack is securely held down in the locked position with the use a cam clamp. When stationary and ready to use the clamp lock down is released and the end of the rack is pushed up by the gas spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Richard Bartholdy
  • Patent number: 7469806
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier apparatus comprising: a first member configured to attach to an automobile trailer hitch; a first hinged element coupled to the first member; a second member coupled to the first hinged element and to a second hinged element; a bicycle attaching member coupled to the second hinged element; and where the bicycle carrier apparatus is configured move from a ground position to a traveling position, and from a traveling position to a ground position, by pivoting the second member and the bicycle attaching member about the first hinged element and the second hinged element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory L. Garoffolo
  • Publication number: 20080237285
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for moving a cargo-carrying apparatus on a vehicle from a first position to a second position. The vehicle has a longitudinal center line and includes a hook arm having a pivot end and a hook end, with the hook end coupled to the cargo carrying apparatus. The arrangement comprises a plurality of rollers mounted on one of the vehicle and the cargo-carrying apparatus. A pivot joint is positioned in the hook arm between the pivot end and the hook end. The hook end maintains engagement with the cargo-carrying apparatus on the vehicle in both the first position and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Dave Calliari
  • Patent number: 7419076
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a float tube carrier comprised of a support member and one or more pairs of arms extending from said support member and capable of securing one or more float tubes. Alternatively, the support member comprises a mount arm capable of securing to a vehicle, and a rotatable and removable support member connecting to said mount arm through a locking swivel. The support member may also comprise a generally 1-shaped mount arm capable of securing to a hitch, and having a locking swivel for removably connecting to the mount arm or, a generally I-shaped support member with a locking swivel for removably connecting to the mount arm. The carrier further comprises a first and second pair of arm members with a locking pivot operatively engaging a support member and, a first and second locking bar for securing one or more float tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Ulrich Grothues
  • Patent number: 7404504
    Abstract: Cargo carriers are disclosed, and more particularly adjustable cargo carriers that may be mounted on a rear of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph J. Settelmayer
  • Patent number: 7401715
    Abstract: A rotatable strap arrangement for a load carrier of a transporting vehicle. The load carrier includes an elongate tray with a rotation mechanism coupled thereto, the rotation mechanism permitting rotation relative to the elongate tray. The rotatable strap arrangement has a strap coupled to the rotation mechanism, the strap operable for securing an object to the elongate tray. The rotatable strap arrangement further includes a strap receiving mechanism coupled to the rotation mechanism, the strap receiving mechanism operable for receiving the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Publication number: 20080149787
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include a support for a rack, such as a sport utility rack that is configured for holding and/or transporting equipment, for instance, bicycles, skis, snowboards, and the like. In certain embodiments, the support is configured for engaging a portion of a sport utility rack, such as those known in the art that include a trailer hitch engagement portion capable of being joined to a trailer hitch receiving element of a vehicle in order to be transported thereby, so as to hold and/or maintain the rack while the rack is not engaged with the vehicle. In certain embodiments, the support is adapted for engaging a trailer hitch engagement portion of a sport utility rack so as to store the rack, while not being engaged with a vehicle, e.g., during transport, and for bearing the weight of the rack while the rack is partially or fully loaded with equipment, such as sports utility equipment (e.g., bicycles).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Robert James Cole
  • Patent number: 7296959
    Abstract: A deer-stand and deer-carrier rack for an ATV enables a hunter to transport a deer-stand and to easily transport a deer using an ATV. U-clamps and adjustable attaching bars attach a deer-carrier rack to the rear of an ATV. The essentially rectangular frame of the deer-stand rack has a rearwardly facing oblique pair of arms and a pair of frontwardly facing L-shaped brackets. The rearwardly facing arms can carry a deer stand while the frontwardly facing L-shaped bracket holders can carrier different types of hunting gear. A deer carrier is also adjustably attachable to the front carrier of an ATV. The deer carrier has a rectangular frame, which is attached to the carrier of the ATV, and a hinged lower frame that folds down when the deer is to be loaded. The lower hinged frame also has wings to accommodate the deer. Once the deer is loaded onto the lower carrier in the horizontal position, the lower carrier is lifted upwardly to an essentially vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: James Darrin Davis
  • Patent number: 7293681
    Abstract: A rack designed to provide convenient storage of doors optionally removable from “JEEP” style Sport Utility Vehicles. This allows a driver to operate the vehicle with the doors removed and thus free up interior space. The rack is mounted on the rear of the vehicle exteriorly of the rear-mounted spare tire. Mounted securely in the rack, the doors are spaced from the spare tire and are prevented from rubbing each other and the spare tire. The doors are therefore protected from scratches and abrasions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Wills
  • Patent number: 7267253
    Abstract: A multipositionable apparatus for mounting on a receiver assembly carried by a vehicle includes a support frame, a platform carried on the support frame and a linkage for displaceably mounting the platform relative to the frame and positively holding the platform in at least two different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Jason R. Moldthan, Katherine A. Adams
  • Patent number: 7261228
    Abstract: A sporting article transport rack that is engageable to a hitch of an automotive vehicle is provided. The rack comprises a hitch engaging portion that is fastenable to the hitch and which extends therefrom away from the automotive vehicle. An elongated stem portion extends upwardly from the hitch engaging portion. An article support member is securable to an upper end of the elongated stem portion and is cantilevered therefrom. The article support member is removable from the elongated stem portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Sportrack Accessories
    Inventors: Keith Prescott, Jean Pigeon, Moussa Zahzam, Hugues Espesset, Germain Dépot, Stéphane Labrie, Laurent Landrin, Alain Parizeau
  • Patent number: 7246833
    Abstract: A system (10) for attaching a trailing device (12) to a vehicle includes a bumper assembly (11) having a back structure (13) which carries an energy absorbing module (14). The system (10) includes receiver assemblies (60) which are attached to the bumper back structure (13) and which include a tube (62). The system (10) also includes carrier assemblies (40) which carry the trailing device (12) and which each includes an arm end (42) slidably received in the tubes (62). Shear pins (73) attach the arm ends (42) to the tubes (62) and upon impact to the trailing device (12), a leg (74) of each pin (73) can be sheared allowing relative movement between the arm ends (42) and the tubes (62). As a result, the carrier assemblies (40) contact the energy absorbing bumper module (14) to absorb some of the energy of the impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Romeo-Rim, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew M. Exline
  • Patent number: 7240816
    Abstract: A rack for supporting at least one bicycle in position includes a base. Two beams are pivotally connected with the base. At least one supporting device is attached to each of the beams in order to support one wheel of the bicycle. A post is pivotally connected with the base. A hooking device is attached to the post in order to hook the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: David Tsai
  • Patent number: 7152770
    Abstract: The memo holder for automobiles is installed in an automobile so that the outer surface of the memo holder coincides with the outer surface of an instrument panel, thus storing papers as well as cards made of a hard material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae-seob Choi
  • Patent number: 7055725
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted equipment carrier includes a base having a support member that is movable between an operative position and an inoperative position. An engagement member maintains the position of the support member, and is movable between an engaged position and a release position. The engagement member is movable between the engaged position and an intermediate position by a threaded connection with the base, is movable between the intermediate position and the release position by a sliding connection with the base. The shaft includes a threaded section that engages a threaded opening in the base, for providing movement of the engagement member between the engaged position and the intermediate position upon rotation of the engagement member, and an unthreaded section that moves the shaft axially within the opening for moving the engagement member between the intermediate position and the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Saris Cycling Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Clint D. Kolda
  • 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