Trailer Hitch Patents (Class 224/519)
  • Patent number: 7886948
    Abstract: A hitch carrier device for transporting cargo and particularly, but not exclusively, large game carcasses on a hitch of a road vehicle is described. The carrier device comprises a support structure having a vertical support frame. A hitch connection is provided at a lower end of the vertical support frame. A horizontal harness support frame is secured to an upper end portion of the vertical support frame. A harness of flexible material is detachably secured to the horizontal harness support frame for supporting a cargo to be transported at an elevated position above the hitch behind the road vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald Kerr
  • Publication number: 20110024472
    Abstract: An attachment for a vehicle effective in facilitating the loading of an elongated article onto the roof of such vehicle, generally consisting of a support means mountable on an end of the vehicle; a bracket mounted on the support means; a roller mounted on the bracket, having a rotation axis disposed transversely relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle, onto which an end of an article may be rested to accommodate the lifting of an opposite end thereof and rolling the article onto the roof of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Dee D. Thompson, Virginia Elizabeth Thompson
  • 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: 7861903
    Abstract: A display apparatus for use with a truck having a receiver hitch includes a mounting bracket having oppositely disposed first and second ends, the first end being configured to be received in the receiver hitch. The apparatus includes a main support member coupled to the second end of the bracket, the main support member being height adjustable. The main support member defines an elongate channel. At least one fastener is coupled to the main support member for movement along the elongate channel, the fastener being selectively securable at a desired position along the channel. The fastener includes an eyelet to which a flag or banner may be secured. The apparatus may also include at least one auxiliary support member pivotally coupled to the main support member for displaying another flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Brandon Plaschka
  • Publication number: 20100308093
    Abstract: An auger hauler is adapted to be removably attached to a vehicle and transport an auger with the vehicle. The auger hauler comprises a vehicle frame that is adapted to be removably attached to the vehicle. The auger hauler comprises further an auger frame attached to the vehicle frame and adapted to transport the auger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: James Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100301082
    Abstract: A securing device includes a frame having first and second pivot points spaced apart from one another, a travel member extending vertically between the first and second pivot points and movable generally linearly between a lowermost position and an uppermost position, a first arm pivotally coupled to the frame at the first pivot point, and a second arm pivotally coupled to the frame at the second pivot point. First and second intermediate links are pivotally coupled to the first and second arms, respectively, and pivotally coupled to the travel member. A biasing element imparts force directly or indirectly upon the first intermediate link to maintain the travel member at the lowermost position when the travel member is at the lowermost position, the force biasing the first intermediate link to impede the travel member from moving to the lowermost position when the travel member is not at the lowermost position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Scott W. Beckley
  • Publication number: 20100294819
    Abstract: An accessory mounting receiver for trailer hitches is provided which includes a trailer hitch insert tube having lateral side walls. The side walls include cooperating aligned apertures for pinned connection to a trailer hitch receiver. An accessory mounting bar has proximal and a distal ends. An accessory receiver box is connected to the distal end of the mounting bar. The accessory receiver box has four side walls. At least two of the side walls each have cooperating diametrically opposed apertures for pinned connection to an accessory insert tube. A collar plate is connected to the proximal end of the mounting bar. The plate is slidably clearance fit for horizontal and vertical rotation of the accessory receiver about the trailer hitch insert tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: MICHAEL SPERA
  • Patent number: 7832608
    Abstract: A cargo carrier mountable to a hitch receiver of a vehicle includes a lightweight, open-air wire basket supported by a tough metal bracket. The bracket is reversible so that the carrier can be attached to different size hitch receivers. To simplify assembly, the mounting hardware for attaching the basket to the bracket is the same regardless of which size receiver is being used. The holes for the mounting hardware are positioned such that the fasteners can avoid carrying most of the cargo's weight. If the basket is evenly loaded with cargo, it is possible for the fasteners to carry substantially no weight whatsoever. When not in use, the basket is collapsible to lie generally flat against the bracket so that the cargo carrier can be readily stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Frederick R. Bauer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7819128
    Abstract: The trailer hitch mount for an umbrella includes a square cross-section shaft that is adapted to slide into a standard sleeve-style trailer hitch receiver that is currently available on many vehicles. The shaft includes a series of holes along the sides thereof to receive a pin in order to secure the shaft to the trailer hitch receiver in a telescopic relationship. The series of holes allows the shaft length to be adjusted, so that the distance between the trailer hitch receiver and the opposed end of the shaft may be shortened or lengthened, as desired. The shaft includes two ends, one of which slides into the trailer hitch receiver, and the other end includes a hollow pivoting cylindrical tube that is used to receive the bottom end of an umbrella pole. The pivoting tube includes adjustment means, so that the pivoting tube may be tilted to a desired angle and secured in that position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventors: Scotty O'Brian Clark, Jimmie Leroy Geddings, Jr.
  • 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: 7815211
    Abstract: A hitch storage device for securing a hitch to a vehicle that minimizes risk of accidental painful contact between the hitch and the operator of the vehicle. The hitch storage device includes a connecting member, a male hitch member, a hitch-support bracket, and a male protrusion member. The hitch storage device incorporates an integral passive securing mechanism whereby a hitch is secured without having to use an active hitch-securing device such as a bolt to secure the hitch shaft to the hitch storage device of the present invention. In a further embodiment, the male hitch member and hitch-support bracket are integrated to provide an L-shaped bracket with an integral sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Bryan Witchey
  • Patent number: 7815084
    Abstract: A ready-to-ride bicycle carrier assembly. The ready-to-ride bicycle assembly includes a frame having a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the frame includes a wheel well configured to support a first wheel of the bicycle. A wheel holder is located at the rear portion of the frame and is configured to support a second wheel of the bicycle. An arm is pivotably connected to the frame, and a gripping member is selectively moveable along a length of the arm. The gripping member is configured to be selectively positioned to secure the bicycle on the carrier. In some embodiments, the wheel well includes terraced sidewalls adapted to secure tires having different widths. In some embodiments, an upper rim portion of the wheel well assembly is longitudinally asymmetrical. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a wheel brace configured to wrap around a portion of the first wheel that is above the wheel well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Allen, Joseph J. Settelmayer, Mark Early
  • Patent number: 7815083
    Abstract: A carrier for bicycles or other objects which is adapted to be mounted in a hitch receiver of a vehicle. The carrier being adapted to pivot downwardly away from the rear of the vehicle to allow for improved access to the rear doors of the vehicle. The carrier including a cantilever mounted handle having a spring actuated locking member for holding the carrier in a horizontal or, vertically stored position, or, when released, allowing the carrier to tilt downwardly. The carrier including bicycle support members is adapted to grip the wheels of a bicycle mounted thereon. The bicycle support members are mounted on transverse members and are laterally adjustable to match the wheel span of a bicycle to be carried. The bicycle support members are adapted to be folded and the transverse members moved inwardly to make the carrier more compact for storage. In an alternative embodiment, a tiltable carrier rack is provided for carrying items other than bicycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Softride, Inc.
    Inventors: Eivind Clausen, James D Allsop
  • Patent number: 7793967
    Abstract: The present invention is a configurable trailer hitch that provides an extended towing position for transferring a tractor force to a load, and a retracted storage position for safely stowing the hitch under a towing vehicle. The trailer hitch has a spring loaded retaining pin which engages a hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the towing position, and a storage latch adapted to hold the hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: David McConnell
  • Publication number: 20100224663
    Abstract: One embodiment of a carrier assembly includes a platform member. The platform member includes a base, and a peripheral edge portion surrounding the base. The carrier assembly further includes a supporting arm attached to the base with the supporting arm adapted to be removably attached to a hitch of a vehicle. Further, the carrier assembly includes a plurality of panel members. Each of the panel members includes a pair of attaching legs adapted to be attached to the platform member for supporting the panel member on the platform member. Support of the plurality of panel members on the platform forms an enclosure. Further, at least one attaching leg of the pair of legs of a panel member is adapted to be detached from the platform member for facilitating displacement of the panel member to allow access to the formed enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Prince A. Butler, III
  • Publication number: 20100206929
    Abstract: A lightweight cargo carrying structure mounted upon arms which cantilever rearward from tow eyes mounted at the rear of a vehicle. This invention provides an efficient way to expand the cargo-carrying capacity of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: John Wesley Perry
  • Patent number: 7766202
    Abstract: A carrier having a foot member, a post and a top member. The foot member has a first end and a second connecting end adapted to be detachably connected to a hitch of a vehicle. A bottom end of the post is connected to the first end of the foot member and extends upwardly therefrom in an operational position. The top member is pivotally connected to a top end of the post and is displaceable between a deployed operative position where at least a carrying portion thereof extends away from the vehicle and a collapsed inoperative position where the carrying portion and a major part of the top member are located between a longitudinal axis the post and the vehicle. Retaining means selectively retain the top member at least in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Sportrack Accessories Inc.
    Inventor: Germain Dépot
  • Publication number: 20100176170
    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: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventor: Matthew J. O'Hare
  • Patent number: 7740267
    Abstract: A nesting stabilizing device for limiting the rotation of accessories connecting to a hitch receiver with an outward end defining an opening. The outward end of the hitch receiver has a protruding ring about an outward surface. The nesting stabilizer has a base with a body portion receivable in the hitch receiver and also has a flanged collar for engaging the protruding ring on the hitch receiver in an interference fit, the flanged collar further being coupled with an accessory. In addition, the nesting stabilizer includes a fastener operatively connected with the base for urging the flanged collar against the outward end to cause the flanged collar to engage the protruding ring on the outward end. The nesting stabilizer connects the accessory to the hitch receiver upon engagement of the flanged collar with the protruding ring on the hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Archimedes Intellectual, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph P. Kirtland
  • Patent number: 7703825
    Abstract: An extender for a bed of a truck, wherein the extender comprises a frame that has front end, a rear end and sides. At least one, and preferably two, spaced apart connector brackets extend outwardly away from the rear end of the frame. The connector brackets are designed to rest upon an end portion of the truck bed when the truck's tailgate has been removed. The connector brackets are preferably bolted into the truck bed, but may be frictionally engaged therewith. A strut extends downwardly from the frame and is connected to a rearwardly extending longitudinal support. The support is secured to the truck's trailer hitch. The extender is therefore supported by both the connector brackets and the hitch. The length of the strut is vertically adjustable to allow the extender to be secured to any type of truck. The longitudinal support is also slidably adjustable onto the trailer hitch to provide for the extender to be secured to any type of truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Chad Brown
  • Patent number: 7641235
    Abstract: A transporting dolly attachable to a vehicle includes a metal frame having a base with a top surface and a bottom surface mounted on opposed peripheral side brackets, a peripheral front bracket and a peripheral rear bracket. A center support member and outer support members are secured to the bottom surface of the base. The center support member is integrally formed as a hitch connector to engage with a conventional trailer hitch receiver. The top surface of the base provides an area to carry cargo. Swivel jacks are mounted on the frame to allow the frame to be raised and lowered, and additionally provide means to move the dolly with an attached demountable handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Craig Anduss
  • Patent number: 7614637
    Abstract: A refuse container hitching device including a horizontally extending hitch insert, a vertically extending vertical member of adjustable length, a horizontally extending top member, a refuse container support plate that extending downwardly from the top member, and at least one locking strap for locking the handle of a refuse container to the support plate during towing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: Alan D. Kidd
  • Patent number: 7611035
    Abstract: A rack assembly for carrying skis or snowboards is configured for mounting on a hitch rack behind the vehicle. The ski or snowboard rack assembly includes a pair of U-shaped bar members connected by clamp devices that appear in a preferred design, the clamp devices are connected to the bar members via brackets that permit rotation of the bar members within the brackets, thus providing collapsibility for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph J. Settelmayer, Timothy C. Smith, Addie Segura, legal representative
  • Publication number: 20090261136
    Abstract: A surfboard rack device has a center post, two bottom receiver rings, and two top retainer loops. The bottom receiver rings may also have flexible netting forming bottom baskets, into which one end of a surfboard is inserted. The other end of the surfboard rests in one of the top retainer loops and is secured by an elasticized strap that hooks to a strap ring on the top retainer loop or a pair of hinged rigid arcs which lock together. The device is mounted on a vehicle either by sliding a trailer hitch insert into the vehicle's trailer hitch receptacle, or by hooking the flat hooks of the rack support over the top and bottom of the vehicle's trunk lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Shawn Skoff
  • Patent number: 7597222
    Abstract: An apparatus for carrying a spare tire is described. The apparatus is a spare tire assembly configured to interface with a vehicle hitch. The apparatus comprises a hitch receiver, a bumper frame, a spare tire holder, an adjustable bolt, and an adjust come. The hitch receiver is configured to interface with the hitch from a vehicle. The bumper frame is fixedly coupled to the hitch receiver. The bumper frame is on a horizontal axis. The spare tire holder is rotatably coupled to the bumper frame with a hinged element that is configured to swing vertically about the horizontal axis. The hinged element also includes an aperture or hole, which receives a locking pin that locks the spare tire holder in an upright position. The adjustable bolt and adjustable cone are configured to receive different size spare tires. When the spare tire holder is in a downward position, the user can have access to a cargo box. In one illustrative embodiment, the cargo box has a utility rack and includes doors that swing outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventors: Darrell Bishop, Debra Sue Bishop
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7591404
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention is an apparatus that is selectively attachable to a vehicle, for transporting a device and positioning the device in an orientation that permits access to the vehicle. The apparatus may include a support arm defining a support arm longitudinal axis, wherein the support arm has a hitch collar hole. The apparatus may also include a primary swing arm defining a primary swing arm longitudinal axis. The apparatus may further include a primary hinge assembly coupled to the support arm and the primary swing arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ernest W. LeDuc, Scott C. Salter, Steven J. Caliguri
  • Publication number: 20090230162
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle rack includes a rack unit including multiple locking units for securing wheels of the bicycles and a holding bar for securing top tubes of the bicycles. The rack unit is pivotably connected to a support unit which is connected with rear end of a vehicle. The rack unit and the support unit are connected by a top piece on the rack unit and a bottom piece on the support unit, the top piece can be bottom separated from the bottom piece. The rack unit is pivotably connected to the support unit when not in use. A tilt unit is connected between the rack unit and the support unit so as to tilt the rack unit relative to the support unit to open the back hatch of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: CHIU-KUEI WANG
  • Patent number: 7578524
    Abstract: A land based recreation and utility vehicle lift and anti-theft device and system. The device includes an elongated support post including a ground-engaging fulcrum connected to, and laterally offset in one direction from, the lower end of the support post. A first pivotal connection of the support post is positioned laterally therefrom in the opposite direction from the fulcrum and adapted for pivotal connection to a drawbar or tubular member of the PRV. A locking bar is also pivotally connected at one end to the support post and preferably connectable at the other end to the drawbar or frame member at a point spaced from the first pivotal connection after the corresponding end of the vehicle is lifted from contact with the support surface by pivotal movement of the support post about the fulcrum whereby the lifted end of the vehicle is maintained in a lifted position for service and as a theft deterrent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: William J Matthews
  • Patent number: 7565990
    Abstract: A trailer hitch mounted combination bike rack and workout station is provided. The device can be used to store and carry up to three bicycles, and can also be used as a workout station for pull ups, dips, sit ups and other exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Frederick E. Bryan, IV
  • Publication number: 20090159627
    Abstract: A cargo carrier having a 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 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 hitch sleeve 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 and allow the hitch sleeve to be aligned with the hitch shaft to facilitate insertion of bolts through the hitch sleeve and hitch shaft, thereby fastening the cargo carrier to the hitch shaft. The legs can be rotatably mounted to the cargo carrier to provide additional clearance of the legs above the ground by rotating them, once the cargo carrier hitch sleeve is connected to the hitch shaft inserted in the vehicle trailer hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Lee Myrex
  • 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: 20090140024
    Abstract: A cargo carrier apparatus with cargo platform and vehicle hitch receiver bar. The cargo platform is supported by the receiver bar and the cargo carrier apparatus has an adaptor supported by the receiver bar. The adaptor having an additional component assembly joining device and a sleeve portion secured to a free end of the receiver bar with the sleeve being C-shaped cross-sectioned that is supported by an underlying portion of the receiver bar. The adaptor having a joining device receiving an extension device extending between the joining device and an above supported additional component as in a bike carrier assembly or grill assembly. The cargo platform, adaptor and receiver bar are stacked with one or more bolts extending through all elements in the stack. The extension device includes a straight or bent support post with attachment device at both ends for connection with the joining device and the additional component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventors: Don McLemore, John McLemore
  • Publication number: 20090140538
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device configured to attach to the end of a truck bed. The device can be conveniently used to support and/or secure objects to the truck that are longer than the truck bed. In some embodiments the device enables transport of objects that are longer than a truck bed without interfering with trailers being towed by the truck. A method of securing a wheeled vehicle to a truck bed is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: Richard Lowell Larson
    Inventor: Richard Lowell Larson
  • Patent number: 7533789
    Abstract: A spare tire mounting apparatus includes a mounting including a male hitch coupler and a female hitch coupler that are attached together. The male hitch coupler may be extended into and secured to the receiver hitch. A pole is attached to and extends upwardly from the mounting. The pole has a front side and a back side. The pole has a break therein such that a first portion and a second portion are defined. The first portion abuts the mounting and is hingedly coupled to the second portion. The hinge is positioned on the front side of the pole. A rod for removably receiving a tire is attached to the pole and extends outwardly away from the front side of the pole. The rod is positioned on the second portion of the pole. The rod is threaded and a threaded locking member is selectively positionable on the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventors: Stephen J. Seely, Sally J. Seely
  • Publication number: 20090120984
    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: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Richard Jeli, Andrew Austin, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder
  • Publication number: 20090120985
    Abstract: An article carrier configured to be detachably mounted to a trailer hitch of a vehicle is disclosed. The article carrier may include a frame having first and second end portions with the first end portion being pivotably mounted to the base allowing the frame to be selectively pivoted about a first axis between a substantially vertical position in which the frame extends upwardly from the base, and a substantially horizontal position in which the frame extends sidewardly from the base, the first axis being parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and a carrier assembly connected to the second end portion of the frame and configured to support one or more articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
  • Publication number: 20090120986
    Abstract: A bicycle rack is configured for mounting to a hitch behind a vehicle. The bike rack may include a mast and a mechanism for locking the mast in an upright position, or alternatively, permitting downward rotation of the mast away from the vehicle for access purposes. The rack includes arms and mounting devices for supporting various tubular components for the bicycle frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Chris Sautter, Mike Kemery, Zac Elder, Andrew Austin, Richard Jeli, Aaron Foley, Steve Rodden
  • Patent number: 7530523
    Abstract: A wire or cable dispenser comprising a drawbar inserted into a typical hitch receiver of a vehicle with the rearward end of the drawbar having a support member pivotally secured thereto which extends upwardly and rearwardly therefrom in its dispensing position and which may be folded flat against the upper surface of the drawbar for purposes of storage or transport. Rods are extended through the drawbar and the support member for supporting spools of wire or cable on the opposite ends thereof. The rods may be stowed within the drawbar and/or support member with the dispenser including a convenient means for stowing various pins thereon so that the pins do not become lost or misplaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald L. Murray
  • Patent number: 7527282
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to a trailer for towing light weight items such as Motorcycles, All Terrain Vehicles, Jet Skis, garden tractors, mowers, golf carts or other miscellaneous loads. The Transporter embodied in this invention takes advantage of a fixed attachment to the rear of a towing vehicle that has a hinged interface to the trailer which allows vertical motion between the trailer and the towing vehicle but eliminates the sideways motions or yaw. The Transporter also has one or more castor type wheels which allow the trailer to be backed as an extension of the towing vehicle without danger of jackknifing. The castor wheels are easily removed allowing the side of the Transporter to rest on the ground, creating a ramp to drive the vehicle to be transported onto the Transporter. The side of the Transporter can then be lifted with a typical jack and the castor wheel assembly or assemblies slipped into place and fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Larry D. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7487895
    Abstract: A wheeled carrier for a golf club bag and a set of golf clubs which can be removably secured to a vehicle include a one-piece in situ molded cover and wheeled carrier body pivotly secured to each other. The carrier body includes a rib slidably received in a channel of a vehicle hitch bracket. The handle, slidably connectors and pivot means are located to one side of a vertical plane opposite two wheels of the carrier body, a hand grip portion of the cover and a latch for securing the cover to the carrier body in the closed position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Feat First Incorporated
    Inventor: Ronald G. Hesmer
  • Publication number: 20090020577
    Abstract: A hitch-mounted device is attachable to a trailer hitch of a vehicle for lifting, securing, and/or transporting various objects. Mounting brackets can be used to secure objects to a hitch-mounted device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Jason Robert Johnson, David Glen Riley
  • Publication number: 20090014488
    Abstract: A vehicle hitch assembly for suspension support of an accessory from the rear of a vehicle having a rear bumper and a trailer hitch receiver positioned under the bumper. The hitch assembly includes a horizontally extending rigid trailer hitch receiver insert for insertion and retention in the vehicle trailer hitch receiver, and a rigid support arm having one end adjustably and detachably securable to the vehicle rear bumper and another end thereof rigidly and adjustably securable to the trailer hitch receiver insert. An accessory support is then secured to the vehicle hitch assembly for supporting a load off of the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Bradley V. Ayers
  • Publication number: 20090001109
    Abstract: A tire carrier is provided wherein a tire mount is fixed to a rotating member opposite from a pivot axis such that the tire is cleared away from a rear of the vehicle when the tire carrier is traversed to an access position. Additionally, the tire carrier is mountable in the rear hitch receiver with an expandable tongue for reducing shaking of the tire carrier when the vehicle is being driven upon uneven terrain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Paul T. Wilkins
  • 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: 20080296330
    Abstract: A mountable storage arrangement includes a mounting frame and a mountable storage device. The mounting frame includes a draw tube and a base member and upright member secured to the draw tube. The base member includes a support member having an axially extending portion and a laterally extending portion. The mountable storage device includes a base portion having a lower frame engaging surface including a recess sized to receive the support member to limit lateral and axial movement of the base portion with respect to the base member. The mountable storage device further includes an upright portion having an attachment feature configured to be secured to a corresponding attachment feature of the upright member to limit vertical movement of the base portion with respect to the base member when the support portion of the base member is received in the base portion recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: D. Scott KALOUS, Raymond H. KLEIN, II, Scott STEVENS
  • Publication number: 20080264991
    Abstract: A receiver trailer hitch carrier is provided, which includes a tray and a receiver tube mounted to the tray. The receiver tube is sized to accept a trailer hitch and is oriented at an acute angle relative to horizontal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Mike C. Foster
  • Publication number: 20080264990
    Abstract: A lifting apparatus for an all-terrain vehicle is described. The lifting apparatus assists in the loading, transferring, and unloading of an article or a load from the all-terrain vehicle. The lifting apparatus includes an elevating member with a platform. The platform is engaged to the elevating member for vertical movement. A winch is mounted on the elevating member and connected to the platform to raise and lower the platform. A base member supports the elevating member in a rotatable engagement such that elevating member and the platform rotate relative to the base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: William Riegert, Curt Klaustermeier
  • Patent number: 7419347
    Abstract: A tool support apparatus for supporting tools from a vehicle hitch receiver includes a tongue bar mountable to a vehicle hitch receiver of a vehicle and extending outwardly from a rear of the vehicle. An outrigger bar is coupled to the tongue bar and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the tongue bar. A pair of stabilizer jacks is rotatably coupled to opposing ends of said outrigger bar. Each of said stabilizer jacks is configured to engage the ground surface to stabilize the outrigger bar and the tongue bar when weight is applied to the tongue bar. A mounting plate is mounted on the tongue bar to receive the tools. The mounting plate has a plurality of mounting apertures extending therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: John D. Cormier
  • Patent number: RE40878
    Abstract: An object detection system is mounted at the rear of a vehicle the trailer receiver for the vehicle. The object detection system warns the driver of the vehicle of persons or objects behind the vehicle, when the vehicle is moving backwards. The system emits microwaves rearwardly of the vehicle and senses microwave reflected from objects behind the vehicle. The microwave transceiver is mounted in the trailer receiver in place of the trailer ball that is normally mounted in the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Sense Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Hugh Bishop