Trailer Hitch Patents (Class 224/519)
  • Patent number: 11912349
    Abstract: A towable vehicle equipment carrying apparatus provides a portable, organizable reinforced container adapted to carry vehicle-related accessories. The vehicle-related accessories can include items needed at automotive events, such as autocross or high-performance driving events. The reinforced container is sufficiently small and lightweight in dimensions, so as to facilitate towing thereof. The container can be easily hitched to a vehicle for towing. The container includes a hitch, such as a dual right-angle extension hitch, which is adapted for coupling with a receiver hitch on a vehicle, so as to be towed. The reinforced container can retain a fuel canister, a drawer to retain tools, at least one wheel retention pole to retain spare wheels, and multiple hooks to retain a jack. The reinforced container is sufficiently small and lightweight in dimensions, so as to facilitate towing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Inventor: Richard E. Wilson, II
  • Patent number: 11673523
    Abstract: A method of using a support accessory rack includes aligning a first mounting portion of the support accessory rack with a first pin of a rollover protective structure. The method includes aligning a second mounting portion of the support accessory rack with a second pin of a second rollover protective structure. The method includes actuating the first pin to secure the first mounting portion to the rollover protective structure. The method further includes actuating the second pin to secure the second mounting portion to the rollover protective structure. The method includes pivoting a rotating support member of the support accessory rack away from the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion, and supporting the rotating support member onto a lateral bar of the rollover protective structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Inventors: Richard Turner, Carolyn Turner
  • Patent number: 11421892
    Abstract: A cooking and cooling apparatus, including a main body to receive at least one item thereupon, a cooking unit disposed on at least a portion of a top surface of the main body to cook at least one food item thereon, and a cooling unit disposed within at least a portion of the main body to keep contents stored within at a cool temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Inventor: Ashley Snyder
  • Patent number: 11225200
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier includes a vehicle engaging frame portion configured to be coupled a carrying vehicle and a rearward extending support member coupled to the vehicle engaging frame portion by a variably configurable hub configured to set the support member in a plurality of orientations relative to the vehicle engaging frame portion. The support member accommodates one or more bicycles and the support member is configured to be coupled to an add-on support member that accommodates one or more additional bicycles. The add-on support member includes an actuator configured to set the support member in the plurality of orientations relative to the vehicle engaging frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Keith L. Prescott, Jeffrey R. Edgerly
  • Patent number: 11027662
    Abstract: A cargo and storage rack for increasing the carrying capacity of a vehicle having a spare tire mount on the exterior of the vehicle. Retaining features of a mounting boss engage the retainment features of the spare tire to the spare tire mount. The mounting boss is adapted to receive storage brackets above or below or both of above and below the mounting boss, to secure cargo securing features at desired distances of engagement from the boss. Rails of any bracket secured to the boss provide support for alternately translating and selectably locatable cargo supporting features, such that the rack can secure cargo without a bracket that provides its own securing features. Optionally, the rack can support cargo with any combination of selectably locatable cargo supporting features on the rails and a bracket, and the rack comprises methods of construction and customization that facilitate rapid reconstruction of the rack and removal from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Inventors: Jason Morgan, Ron Morrison
  • Patent number: 10814795
    Abstract: A storage unit intended for mounting on the rear of a golf cart type vehicle is designed to protrude from the rear of the golf cart to provide more storage space. The storage unit is further designed to be removable, and may be subdivided with movable partitions. Several features are described for its attachment onto the rear of the golf cart in different ways, including specific types of attachments and frameworks for use with and without rear shelf wells on the golf cart. These are designed for greater security in holding the storage unit onto the golf cart, and include adjustable or removable bottom protrusions for use with a rear shelf well, or the attachment frame system without a rear shelf well. In addition, a system is described to allow the storage unit to be folded, such that it can be more compactly folded and shipped, stored or transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Inventor: Frank Philip Bonenberger
  • Patent number: 10486609
    Abstract: An adapter for use with a tow hitch assembly attached to a vehicle so the adapter may support a useful apparatus which can be utilized with the vehicle and/or be utilized to carry bicycles or other items without compromising the ability to tow a towable vehicle. The adapter comprises an adapter collar having a collar opening sized and configured to be received on and engage either a hitch shaft or a receiver collar of the tow hitch assembly. A pair of arms extend forwardly toward the vehicle from the adapter collar. Each arm has an aperture that aligns with apertures on the hitch shaft and receiver so a locking device may be received through the aligned apertures to secure the adapter to the tow hitch assembly. The useful apparatus attaches to or is integral with outer sides of the adapter collar and/or one or more of the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Inventor: Jan R. Klindt
  • Patent number: 10486611
    Abstract: A support assembly for use with a tow hitch assembly attached to a vehicle that is utilized to support an apparatus which can be used with the vehicle and/or be utilized to carry bicycles or other items while simultaneously towing a towable vehicle. The support assembly provides a second receiver that supports the apparatus. The second receiver is attached to or integral with a component tube that is attached to the tow hitch assembly or an adapter attached to the tow hitch assembly. The adapter engages the exterior surfaces of the tow hitch assembly to not interfere with the tube opening that receives a hitch shaft of a towable vehicle. The adapter has an adapter collar, pair of side members that extend rearwardly from the adapter collar and a pair of arms that extend forwardly to connect the side members to the receiver of the tow hitch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Inventor: Jan R. Klindt
  • Patent number: 10077005
    Abstract: A unified carrier cargo rack and storage system for a vehicle including a receiver unit installed in the rear of the vehicle and a modular carrier rack, including a transitional carrier bar, a secondary bar and a cargo carrier bar, wherein the cargo carrier bar is further operable to engage and immobilize cargo; are disclosed as are male and female securing mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Mark A. Anton
  • Patent number: 9862330
    Abstract: A three-dimensional rack useful in a pick-up truck or trailer having a bed with raised vertical side walls and a hinged rear tailgate. The rack has a first crossbar the ends of which are pivotally received at the opposed inside walls of the truck or trailer bed, a pair of matched spaced apart arms affixed to the first crossbar and a second crossbar affixed to said pair of arms, the arms being shaped so that the crossbars are horizontally and vertically displaced from each other while being parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey Dennis Sayegh, Michelle Marie Messang Sayegh
  • Patent number: 9828041
    Abstract: A trailer (50, 60) has a chassis (1) which is fabricated from sheet plastics material. The chassis (1) is hollow and substantially planar and has an upper sheet (6) and lower sheet (10) separated by a peripheral wall (12). The shape of the chassis is generally dart like being formed by a forward triangle 3 and a rear rectangle (4). The sheet plastics material is preferably high density polyethylene which is 16 mm thick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Mining Vision Pty Limited
    Inventor: Gordon Robert Morgan Furze
  • Patent number: 9731569
    Abstract: A trailer hitch includes a cross-vehicle beam and a receiver welded to the cross-vehicle beam. The cross-vehicle beam extends from a first end to a second end. The cross-vehicle beam includes a middle section, a first round section, and a second round section. The middle section includes a flat. The first round section is integral with the middle section and extends from the middle section to the first end. The second round section is integral with the middle section and extends from the middle section to the second end. The receiver is welded directly to the flat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John Michael McGuckin, Sampath Rengarajan
  • Patent number: 9375986
    Abstract: A special hitch insert, adapted to receive a rolling cart, can be inserted into a standard vehicle hitch. The hitch insert allows the cart to be loaded at ground level, rolled to the rear of the vehicle, and secured to the hitch insert by using the cart as a lever to raise the cart and lock it onto the hitch insert at the level of the receiving hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Inventor: Greg R. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 9352699
    Abstract: A carrier apparatus for a vehicle may include guide rails symmetrically disposed under a rear bumper beam and extending in a front-rear direction, a carrier having a panel and sliding rails and stowed or drawn out under the rear bumper beam by sliding in the front-rear direction along the guide rails, tilting rails extending on same lines at rear ends of the guide rails and capable of tilting on the rear bumper beam, tilting adjusters disposed adjacent the tilting rails at the rear ends of the guide rails and restricting turning of the tilting rails by being selectively coupled to the tilting rails, and damping units having first ends connected to the guide rails and second ends connected to the tilting adjusters, and reducing turning speed of the tilting rails when the tilting adjusters are separated from the tilting rails and the tilting rails turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Dong Eun Cha, Hyun Gyung Kim, Seung Mok Lee, Phil Jung Jeong, Nam Cheol Kim, Soo Hyun Hyun
  • Patent number: 9321316
    Abstract: A trailer hitch storage apparatus including a rectangular base plate, a hollow rectangular male member having a first front end welded to the base plate, and a hollow rectangular female member having a second front end welded to the base plate. The male member is removably disposed within a trailer hitch receiver which receives an open first rear end of the male member. A ball mount is removably disposed within the female member through a second rear end. A right portion of a pin is slidably and continuously disposed through a first pair of openings disposed through the female member and a second pair of openings disposed through the ball mount. A left portion of a pin is slidably and continuously disposed through a first pair of apertures disposed through the male member and a second pair of apertures disposed through the trailer hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Richard Beal
  • Patent number: 9175497
    Abstract: A holder securely holds a canopy shade system for providing protection from sun or rain for a worker or during recreation. The holder is attached to a vehicle's trailer hitch via a receiver tube. A cross arm passes through the receiver tuber and is positionable between a squared position with respect to the receiver tube and an angled position. Telescoping extension arms extend outwardly from each end of the cross arm with a leg located on the distal end of each extension arm, each leg capable of holding an implement such as the canopy shade system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Inventor: Alan S Poudrier
  • Patent number: 9027809
    Abstract: A lightweight platform is formed by using plastic, aluminum, or an open spaced metal. The platform consists of a front section, a middle section, and a rear section. The front and rear sections may have side walls of any height. End walls may be attached if desired. The front section is connected to the middle section by hinges located on a top surface of the platform. The middle section is connected to the rear section by hinges located on a bottom surface of the platform. The platform moves from an open position to a closed position and back easily and without the necessity of latches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Leslie P Ezra
  • Publication number: 20150110594
    Abstract: A modifiable rack system can be connected to a vehicle such as a truck or a tractor, and includes a receptacle for holding a variety of items including materials and equipment. The rack system includes a variety of add-ons for organizing and retaining equipment, and a hinged tail gate for easy access. The rack system includes a trailer hitch so a rolling trailer, or the like, can be daisy-chained off the back end. Wheels can be mounted to the rack system so the rack system can used as a rolling cart. The rack system is able to withstand large forces during use because of a tow support spine, and associated structures, which impart tremendous strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Timothy J. Descoteaux
  • Publication number: 20150090753
    Abstract: Bicycle carriers and corresponding methods for loading bicycles and/or other wheeled vehicles onto such carriers are provided. In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a support member (e.g., vertical or generally vertical support member), a hitch member, an elongate upper member, and an elongate lower member. The elongate upper member has an elongate body and a free distal end configured for receipt, serially one after another, of a plurality of wheels of a corresponding plurality of bicycles. For each bicycle, adjacent spokes of a bicycle wheel are positioned about the free distal end of the elongate member and the bicycle is moved backward along the elongate body towards the support member. The elongate body is configured to support the weight of the bicycles via contact with the rims of the bicycle wheels. The carrier is configured such that the bicycles hang generally vertically from the elongate body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher J. Olsen
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8931671
    Abstract: Bicycle carriers and corresponding methods for loading bicycles and/or other wheeled vehicles onto such carriers are provided. In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a support member (e.g., vertical or generally vertical support member), a hitch member, an elongate upper member, and an elongate lower member. The elongate upper member has an elongate body and a free distal end configured for receipt, serially one after another, of a plurality of wheels of a corresponding plurality of bicycles. For each bicycle, adjacent spokes of a bicycle wheel are positioned about the free distal end of the elongate member and the bicycle is moved backward along the elongate body towards the support member. The elongate body is configured to support the weight of the bicycles via contact with the rims of the bicycle wheels. The carrier is configured such that the bicycles hang generally vertically from the elongate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Up Right Designs LLC
    Inventor: Christopher J. Olsen
  • Patent number: 8919331
    Abstract: A portable and adjustable clay target launching apparatus for use with a clay pigeon launcher includes a framework. A tilt adjustment assembly is coupled to the framework, and includes a shaft and a tilt assembly input member operatively coupled to the shaft such that the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A base member is configured to secure the clay pigeon launching device, the base member being operatively coupled to the shaft and configured to tilt side to side when the shaft is rotated by operation of the tilt assembly input member. A rotational adjustment assembly operatively couples the base member to the tilt adjustment assembly, the rotational adjustment assembly being movable between a released configuration at which the base member is selectively rotatable about a sprocket and a locked configuration at which the base member is not rotatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Casey Clarence Rennert
  • Patent number: 8919627
    Abstract: A load carrier or extender arm suitable for use on pick-up trucks or other vehicles includes telescoping curved bars that allow adjustment of the height of a load support cross arm or other support surface relative to a vehicle hitch receiver in which the device is mounted. The curvature of the two members increases the elevation of the device to avoid bottoming out. The rear curved member is part of a T-shaped load support with a cross arm extending laterally of the curved member. The extender arm is especially suited for transporting boats, canoes and kayaks in a pick-up truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventors: Eddie Clifton Brinkley, Chadwick Clifton Brinkley
  • Patent number: 8919626
    Abstract: A power chair carrier system includes a power chair having an elevating motor mounted thereon for raising or lowering the seat of the power chair and for raising or lowering the power chair drive assembly including wheels when the chair is mounted on a vehicle. A hitch assembly is removably connected to a vehicle and includes a docking structure for removably connecting to an upper portion of the power chair to permit the drive assembly and wheels of the power chair to be raised while the chair is in a docking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20140367435
    Abstract: A large animal carrier that has a receiver that attaches to an ATV. The large animal carrier has a V-shaped portion of a main beam and the receiver that allows the user to place the head of the large game animal into, thus securing the animal head portion in front of the V shaped portion allowing it to be towed from the field as the head and antlers prevent the animal from becoming dislodged from the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Colin Ralph Carlisle
  • Patent number: 8893939
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a trailer hitch storage apparatus for storing a trailer hitch on a trailer having a frame. The apparatus includes a trailer hitch receptacle shaped to receive the trailer hitch. The apparatus includes a pair of spaced-apart side plates. The side plates have first ends. At least one of the first ends of the side plates is connected to the trailer hitch receptacle. The side plates have second ends opposite the first ends which extend outwards from the trailer hitch receptacle. The side plates are configured to receive the frame of the trailer between the side plates. The apparatus includes a connector connected to the side plates near the second ends of the side plates. The connector is extendable between the side plates for fixedly securing the frame of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Brass Wolf Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventor: Ronald Anthony Brass
  • Publication number: 20140332655
    Abstract: An apparatus of the present disclosure has a frame, which has a receiving shelf and horizontal support beam respectively coupled to opposing ends of a vertical center beam and at least one leg coupled to the frame adapted such that when the leg is actuated, the frame stands upright and a fishing rod may be supported by the receiving shelf and the horizontal support beam. The apparatus further has a hitch coupled to the frame arranged and positioned such that when the at least one leg is not actuated, the frame may be coupled to a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Reel Deal, LLC
    Inventor: Jeff Colbert
  • Patent number: 8857688
    Abstract: A cargo carrier removably attaches to a square hitch receiver on the back of a vehicle. The cargo carrier is collapsible when not in use. A base plate has a series of first arms pivotally attached thereto each first arm extending outwardly for use and secured thereat and folding upwardly for storage. A removable plate secures the first arms in the extended position. A second arm is attached to an outer end of a first arm and pivots between an extended position extending upwardly from the first arm and a collapsed position flush against the first arm. Each second arm is lockable in its extended position. A flexible cable is attached to the distal end of each second arm to help retain cargo within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Randall Ray Bell, III
  • Patent number: 8840000
    Abstract: A heavy duty leveraged spare tire carrier utilizes a cross frame configured so a spare tire for a vehicle can be bolted thereto and mounted on a receiver-type hitch with a secondary receiver hitch mounted thereon. The carrier has an integral lever-actuated lifting and lowering apparatus to allow a single person the ability to remove and replace a spare tire on the carrier and/or to swing the carrier and spare tire out of the way so an engine or other compartment in the rear of the vehicle can still be accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Donald L. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20140263512
    Abstract: A cargo accessory system is shown and described. The cargo accessory system may include a hitch mounting member, and a cargo accessory carrier attached to the hitch mounting member, where the cargo accessory carrier is configured to carry cargo. The cargo accessory system may also include a visual indicator incorporated with the cargo accessory carrier. The visual indicator may include a compatibility indicator identifying at least one hitch receiver to which the hitch member is capable of attaching, and a weight capacity identifying a load capacity of the cargo accessory carrier when the hitch mounting member is attached to the at least one hitch receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Paul Charles Caruso, Jacob S. Belinky, Mark Patrick Scruggs
  • Publication number: 20140246467
    Abstract: A carrier that mounts to a vehicle. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a pair of arms to support a bicycle. Each arm may include one or more securing devices each including a strap to contact a frame region of a bicycle and a pair of buckles to fasten the strap over the frame region. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a mount for a vehicle hitch. The mount may include a pair of user-actuated coupling members, such as a wedge member and a retractable retainer, each configured to attach the mount to the hitch. One of the coupling members (e.g., the retainer) may serve as a backup for the other coupling member to improve safety. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a mast that is releasable for backward pivotal motion away from the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: Yakima Innovation Development Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin Hein, Richard Jeli, Chris Sautter
  • Patent number: 8820598
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventors: Ty Tennyson, Michael Henley
  • Publication number: 20140239026
    Abstract: A vehicle receiver hitch supported lockable sporting equipment carrier provides a receiver hitch beam carrying an upwardly extending vertical beam. A load beam is structurally carried by the vertical beam, at an end portion opposite the receiver hitch beam. The load beam is fluted on an outer circumferential surface and defines an axial channel extending therethrough for releasable engagement with a locking bar. The locking bar has one leg that releasably engages with the load beam, and a second leg that releasably engages with the vertical beam. An equipment support having a base tray and a load beam sleeve defining mating flute notches and ridges releasably adjustably engages with the load beam to prevent axial rotation of the equipment support relative to the load beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Neil D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8814209
    Abstract: Hitch apparatus and a method of using the same with a vehicle hitch allows the use of a vise, anvil, grinder or other tool requiring mounting before use. Various apertures on the hitch apparatus allow for selected vertical or horizontal mounting on a vehicle hitch. The hitch apparatus further includes a leg to provide for additional strength and structural support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Maxwell E. Way
  • Patent number: 8800831
    Abstract: A multipurpose rack comprising a first securing portion configured to secure a first portion of a transportation device, and a second securing portion configured to secure a second portion of the transportation device, wherein the first securing portion is operably secured to a lower support unit, the lower support unit configured to engage a vehicle element is provided. Furthermore, a method of racking a watercraft and a transportation device comprising the step of: providing a rack including a watercraft racking portion and a transportation device racking portion, and engaging a vehicle element with a lower support unit of the rack is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Larry A. Gray
  • Patent number: 8777074
    Abstract: One possible embodiment of the invention could be a hitch-mounted telescopic rack and its operation, the rack could be comprised of a vertical telescopic tube assembly having an inner tube movably received within a hollow outer tube, the hollow outer tube having a hitch attachment end while the inner tube has an attachment end that connects to a top tube assembly that movably supports one or more rollers perpendicularly to the vertical telescopic tube assembly; wherein the hitch attachment end is reversibly received by a trailer hitch of an automotive vehicle to vertically orient the vertical telescopic tube assembly and place the rollers in a horizontal position distal from the trailer hitch, the one or more rollers moving an object relative to a rear edge of a top of the automotive vehicle as well as supporting the rear overhanging portion of the object that is placed on the top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Thomas DeMers, James Kevin Redmond
  • Patent number: 8746377
    Abstract: An electric utility cart to assist in transportation and hauling various items is disclosed. The utility cart includes a handle with a throttle to control the speed of the cart during use. A single 360° rotatable front wheel in combination with a pair of wide rear wheels which are joined to a differential allows the cart to turn in tight circles. A directional switch proximate the handle allows the user to drive the cart in either a forward or rearward direction. An auxiliary rack can be mounted on the cart as needed for carrying surf boards or other large items. A hitch rod allows the cart to be suspended and transported by a conventional vehicle such as a car, SUV or pickup truck having a typical tubular hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Blue Comet Ventures, LLC
    Inventor: Chris T. Dunbar
  • Publication number: 20140151421
    Abstract: A collapsible bicycle rack to be transported at the rear of a motor vehicle for carrying bicycles that are aligned vertically with their front wheels facing up. The bicycle rack includes an upper front wheel support having stationary front wheel holders and oppositely-aligned adjustable front wheel holders that can be moved relative to the stationary front wheel holders to vary the distance therebetween in order to support the front wheels of bicycles having different diameters. The bicycle rack also includes a lower rear wheel support that rotates simultaneously with the upper front wheel support between an unfolded deployed configuration extending outwardly from an upstanding main support bar and a collapsed compact configuration lying adjacent the upstanding main support bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: Strahan Lingjerde Loken
  • Patent number: 8744633
    Abstract: A liquid mixing station controlled by a computer to dispense predetermined amounts of liquid inputs based on parameters provided by an operator or program. Specifically, the invention is designed to accurately mix liquids and has an inner frame associated with a recipient tank, and an outer frame associated with the inner tank by load bars connected to the computer. The load bars signal the computer regarding weight change on the inner frame. Associated with the outer frame are minor input containers, each in fluid communication with a unique conduit and means to convey the fluid controlled by the computer. The parameters are used by a selected program and the CPU to provide appropriate ratio, sequence, and isolation of inputs. The station includes means for full removal and mix of all contents in a container, full removal of all contents from the recipient, and full clean-out of main conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Agtelligent, LLC.
    Inventors: Doug Applegate, Luke Applegate, Brent Applegate
  • Publication number: 20140131407
    Abstract: A cargo carrier assembly attachable to a vehicle cargo hitch is provided that deploys therefrom and supports cargo items from the rear of the vehicle during transport. The assembly comprises a T-shaped member slidably engaged to a trailer hitch receiver. The T-shaped member comprises a crossbar with a first and second support member end. The support member ends comprises a bar member support sleeve below a slat member support sleeve, wherein a pair of bar members or slat members can be extended from the sleeves and secured under different cargo items. The extended slats engage tubular sleeve members affixed to the base of cargo items, while the bar members are adapted to support larger cargo items or a cargo tray thereon. Magnetic pins engage the slats to maintain their deployed position, while threaded hand fasteners secure the bar members when deployed. A hinged cover plate shrouds the assembly during non-use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Franz Reiseder
  • Patent number: 8720760
    Abstract: A heavy duty, leveraged spare tire carrier utilizes a cross or T-shaped frame configured so a spare tire for an recreational vehicle can be bolted thereto and mounted on a receiver-type hitch common in the RV industry with a secondary receiver hitch mounted thereon. The carrier has an integral lever-actuated lifting and lowering apparatus to allow a single person the ability to remove and replace a spare tire on the carrier and/or to swing the carrier and spare tire out of the way so an engine or other compartment in the rear of an RV can still be accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Donald Simpson
  • Patent number: 8672200
    Abstract: A tailgating system for attachment to a transport vehicle includes a cabinet configured to include at least one of a refrigerator, a grill, a draft system, and a dry storage cabinet. A movable hitch assembly includes a hitch coupling configured to be coupled to a hitch ball connectable to the transport vehicle. The movable hitch assembly is configured to move the hitch coupling up and down relative to the cabinet to raise and lower the cabinet when the movable hitch assembly is coupled to the transport vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Matthew J. O'Hare
  • Publication number: 20140054344
    Abstract: The invention is directed to apparatuses and methods of use of tire carriers. The tire carriers of the present invention attach to a vehicle's hitch receiver and secure a spare tire on the rear exterior of the vehicle as opposed to within the rear cargo area or under the vehicle. In a particular embodiment, the tire carrier of the present invention is capable of rotating about a horizontal axis. In a further embodiment, the tire carrier of the present invention comprises a secondary hitch receiver and is thereby capable of hauling a trailer or other device that attaches via a hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventor: Cliff Watkins
  • Patent number: 8657167
    Abstract: A target thrower mount attachable to a hitch on a vehicle. The target thrower mount may comprise a reconfigurable frame having an adjustable height and length and a universal attachment bracket removably attached to the frame. The frame may comprise horizontal and vertical support structures. The universal attachment bracket may comprise an E-shaped bracket and a base plate attached to and spaced apart from the E-shaped bracket. The E-shaped bracket and the base plate may have aligned holes formed therethrough with a configuration that allows attachment of a plurality of types of target throwers. The spacing between the E-shaped bracket and the base plate may also allow for a portion of an attachment piece of some target throwers to be slid therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventors: Edwin L. Horyna, Lon R. Vass
  • Publication number: 20140034698
    Abstract: Disclosed is a sign caddy system for mounting from a hitch receiver of a vehicle. Certain embodiments include a pair of upright tube arrays that are spaced apart such that a tube in one array can receive a first leg of a sign (such as a real estate listing sign) while a complimentary tube in the other array receives a second leg of the sign. Advantageously, users of a sign caddy embodiment can easily transport real estate signs (or other sign types) externally on the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Larry Cooper
  • Patent number: 8640936
    Abstract: An apparatus and system for securing an item to a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongated cable, a retraction member, a coupling member, and a locking mechanism. The elongated cable is retractably received within the retraction member. The coupling member is secured to the retraction member. The coupling member is engageable with a vehicle receiver to secure the coupling member to the vehicle receiver. The vehicle receiver shaped to receive a separate hitch mounted accessory. The engagement between the coupling member and the vehicle receiver, in certain embodiments, is designed such that the vehicle receiver is accessible for receiving the separate hitch mounted accessory with the coupling member engaged with the vehicle receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: John Ort
  • Patent number: 8631982
    Abstract: A safe is provided comprising a main box having a predetermined size, such that the safe may also be used as a step; a lockable flip lid pivotally connected to the inside of said main box; a top lid, pivotally connected to the upper edge of said main box such that it disguises the said flip lid, and configured such that it is capable of being used as a step; and means for locking the safe to the hitch of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Anthony Vicente, Philip Andrew Litwa
  • Patent number: 8622267
    Abstract: A vehicle receiver hitch supported lockable sporting equipment carrier provides a receiver hitch beam, structurally carrying an upwardly extending vertical beam. A horizontal support beam is structurally carried by the vertical beam, at an end portion opposite the receiver hitch beam. The horizontal support beam defines an axial channel extending therethrough for releasable engagement with a locking bar. The locking bar has one leg that releasably engages with the axial channel defined in the horizontal support beam, and a second leg that releasably engages with a hole defined in the vertical beam, spacedly adjacent the horizontal support beam. A lock hasp hole defined in an end portion of the locking bar provides for engagement of a lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Neil Douglas Johnson
  • Publication number: 20130327802
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bicycle carrier having a support mast, an elongate support member extending from the support mast, and a cradle disposed along the elongate support member. The cradle is for receiving a fork crown of a bicycle. The cradle includes a first hook member extending angularly relative to a longitudinal axis of the elongate support member and a second hook member extending angularly relative to a longitudinal axis of the elongate support member. The first hook member and the second hook member are spaced-apart so as to allow the fork crown to be received by the cradle. A head tube of the bicycle is disposed between the first hook member and the second hook member. The first hook member and the second hook member are disposed between fork tubes of the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Malcolm Thomas Hammond
  • Patent number: 8590758
    Abstract: An apparatus for racking a watercraft on a vehicle, in particular, a Recreational Vehicle comprising: a first end configured to engage a receiver hitch, wherein the first end accommodates a portion of a watercraft; a second end spaced apart from the first end, the second end removably enclosing another portion of the watercraft; and a connecting member connecting the first end with the second end. Also, a method for racking a watercraft on a vehicle comprising: providing a watercraft rack, the watercraft rack including a first end having a lower support frame, a connecting member connecting the first end to a spaced apart second end, the second end having an upper support frame; removably engaging the first end of the watercraft rack with a standard receiving hitch; accommodating a portion of a watercraft with the first end; and removably enclosing another portion of the watercraft within the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Larry A. Gray