Sized To Fill Vehicle Compartment Patents (Class 224/542)
  • Patent number: 7118017
    Abstract: A trunk organizer for the trunk cavity of a police vehicle that forces the orientation of long, stiff items typically carried within the trunk cavity of police vehicles into a transversely extending orientation. The transverse orientation of these items typically found in police vehicle trunks reduces the likelihood of a high speed rear collision driving the items through the walls defining the trunk cavity, particularly the waterfall of the trunk cavity, into the fuel tank. The trunk organizer is preferably formed from high density polyethylene with a forward panel of Kevlar affixed to the front panel of the trunk organizer to provide further penetration resistance. Translucent lids provide a ready inspection of the items without requiring the opening of a compartment. The trunk organizer is sized and configured to fit snuggly within the trunk cavity of a conventional police vehicle and permits an easy removal therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Geraghty, Jack B. Ridenour, Roger Chen, Saeed David Barbat
  • Patent number: 6942269
    Abstract: A removable shelf assembly for vehicles (e.g., sport utility vehicles) to increase storage capacity in a generally flat rearwardly extending bed defined by a floor and pair of upwardly extending side walls, the shelf assembly comprising a frame composed of a plurality of U-shaped members, each member having a base and two spaced apart arms extending perpendicular to the base, a plurality of telescoping members associated with the arms, means for removably locking each arm of each the U-shaped member, whereby to adjustably fix the spaced apart bases; and, a first and second generally planar panel members positioned on the frame for receiving items to be transported thereon, the panel members associated with the frame to allow movement between the panel members. The frame preferably has a raised lip extending substantially around the frame so as to reduce movement of items placed on the frame. A downwardly depending leg which is able to pivot out of the way when needed provides additional load support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Katie-Korp of the Emerald Coast, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Mains
  • Patent number: 6866319
    Abstract: A depositing compartment in a vehicle, having a lid covering a depositing opening and having a depositing bowl arranged in the depositing compartment which is accessible by swivelling open the lid. One releasable lock respectively is arranged at least between the depositing bowl and the lid as well as between the depositing compartment and the depositing bowl. The locks are optionally unlockable by way of a joint unlocking device. An operating-friendly lock arrangement which has a simple construction is created in that the unlocking device for the two locks comprises a spring-loaded double-side push button key which interacts with an axially slidable lock bolt by way of an upright adjusting arm, depending on the pressure exercised on the push button key, one lock or the other lock being unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Dr. Ing h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Christian Hupfer
  • Publication number: 20040262352
    Abstract: A vehicle console includes a media storage compartment having a plurality of receptacles arranged to selectively fan-out to facilitate access to the receptacles for storage and retrieval of items. The vehicle console may be an overhead console, a center console attached to the floor or a seat, or integrated into another portion of the interior such as a door panel or dashboard, for example. In one embodiment, a plurality of receptacles joined together with collapsible and expandable spacing therebetween facilitates storage and retrieval of items upon opening of a storage compartment door. The receptacles may be implemented by plastic sleeves flexibly connected by a string, band, webbing, or other material to fan-out, accordion style, and present the stowed items to a user upon opening of the storage compartment door, while collapsing within the storage compartment upon closing of the door for efficient storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Alan Sturt, James A Mulvihill
  • Patent number: 6817504
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible trunk or cargo space organizer has: (a) an initially flat, rectangular main panel having a centerline between its ends, with a parallel fold line at a specified distance on each side of the centerline; these fold lines serving to define two movable, side sections and a middle section of this main panel, (b) a flat, rectangular middle panel whose top side corner edges have a specified radius of curvature, (c) flat, rectangular end panels whose width is approximately equal to the width of the main panel's middle section, and with the bottom edge of such end panels having a notch that is configured to cooperate with the middle panel's curved corner edges, (d) a strap of length approximately equal to the main panel's middle section, with each of the strap's ends attaching to one of the main panel's side edges and with its midpoint attaching to a point on the top edge of the middle panel, (e) means for coupling each of the top side corners of the end panels to one o
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Colin Drane
  • Patent number: 6811198
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a system for storing cargo within a vehicle. The invention is characterized by a support device (2), attached or attachable in the cargo area (4) of the vehicle, for cargo receiving means (6). The support device (2) is pivotable, after the cargo receiving means (6) have been removed and/or collapsed flat, from a utilization position (A) lying on a cargo area floor (8), about a pivot axis (Y) extending in the vicinity of the cargo area floor (8) approximately parallel thereto, into a non-utilization position (B) lying approximately parallel to and in the vicinity of a vehicle partition (10) delimiting the cargo area (4), and thereby uncovering the vehicle floor (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Hans Jürgen Caro, Bernd Deissmann, Siggi Fischer, Dieter Handke, Ralf Hoge, Christian Schulz, Frank Müller
  • Patent number: 6773046
    Abstract: A rear luggage compartment structure for a hatchback vehicle includes a trunk board comprising front and rear boards which is changeable between a normal position where the front and rear board are laid on front and rear parts of a rear luggage compartment floor, respectively, and a built-up position where the rear board is held upright and the front board is situated horizontally between a rear seat and the rear board held upright so as thereby to create a luggage storage space over the front board that is accessible from a passenger compartment and a secret box under the front board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Mazada Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Kou Nakamitsu, Harunori Nagao, Toshiyuki Manabe, Naohito Saga
  • Publication number: 20040140334
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible trunk or cargo space organizer has: (a) an initially flat, rectangular main panel having a centerline between its ends, with a parallel fold line at a specified distance on each side of the centerline; these fold lines serving to define two movable, side sections and a middle section of this main panel, (b) a flat, rectangular middle panel whose top side corner edges have a specified radius of curvature, (c) flat, rectangular end panels whose width is approximately equal to the width of the main panel's middle section, and with the bottom edge of such end panels having a notch that is configured to cooperate with the middle panel's curved corner edges, (d) a strap of length approximately equal to the main panel's middle section, with each of the strap's ends attaching to one of the main panel's side edges and with its midpoint attaching to a point on the top edge of the middle panel, (e) means for coupling each of the top side corners of the end panels to one of the corners of the main
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Colin Drane
  • Patent number: 6763985
    Abstract: A truck bed cargo stabilizer and organizer portable apparatus is provided for storing, stabilizing and organizing items placed in the bed of a pickup truck. The truck bed cargo stabilizer and organizer apparatus is comprised of a hollow structure for a bed of a truck having an upper portion and a lower portion forming a T-shape with a generally flat upper surface which includes a plurality of bucket receiving cylinders and a toolbox receiving cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventors: Newlyn Stephenson, Sr., George E. Brown, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040134946
    Abstract: A collapsible cargo storage apparatus that is configured to be positioned on a rear seat of a vehicle includes a pair of adjacent base panels that are pivotably connected together and that are movable between operative positions and stored positions. Each base panel has respective opposite upper and lower surfaces, opposite front and rear portions, and a side portion. The lower surface of each base panel has a contour that is configured to matingly engage the contour of a respective seating area. A rear panel, front panel and end panel may be pivotally attached to each base panel that are movable between a closed and open positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Jim Gammon
  • Patent number: 6698634
    Abstract: A camping unit is mounted for transport by a vehicle,. The unit having first and second spaced side units defining an opening there between. A top extends over the opening. A moving compartment is mounted for movement from a position in which it is located in the opening between the side units and under the top, to a position in which at least a portion of it extends outwardly of the side units. The side units and moving compartment all define interior areas or compartments for storing equipment and other goods. The camping unit is adapted to be located in the bed of a vehicle, with the moving compartment mounted upon rails for sliding outwardly of the bed. In one embodiment, the camping unit includes electrical, water and sound systems. Various equipment support platforms, compartment/storage doors and other features are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Stephan Thomson
  • Publication number: 20040020956
    Abstract: A storage device for a motor vehicle, such as a station wagon, including at least one partially flexible storage bag, which can be firmly secured in the cargo space, wherein each of two opposing sides of the storage bag features a dimensionally stable supporting section extending along at least one entire horizontal length of the side to which it corresponds, wherein the opposing fronts of the supporting sections can be secured, in a detachable manner, in a mounting device in the cargo space, and the dimensionally stable supporting sections are connected to one another by a flexible folding structure that protrudes into at least one floor section of the storage bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Lobanoff
  • Publication number: 20030230610
    Abstract: A virtual market making system to allow for demand based pricing of drugs to be utilized by pharmaceutical manufacturers, payors, prescribers, electronic service providers, pharmacy benefit management companies, and other parties involved in the exchange of drugs and their relevant pricing and identification information. The market making system includes the calculation and presentation of the drug pricing information, the drug identification information, as well as the exchange of monies between participating entities in the market making system. In addition, the system allows for informational exchange between the participating entities in order to gauge market demand and adjust price accordingly. The system has the ability to interact with remote and directly connected electronic devices, databases, and information providers. The system also has the ability to interact with online and offline drug information, participating entities, and servicers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Anita Louise Cyr-Hasty, Dersa Rose Cyr
  • Patent number: 6641013
    Abstract: Presented is a tool storage system for pick-up trucks that includes releasably interconnected independent units that are separately manufactured and which are assembled into a composite assembly of interconnected units that fit snugly yet removably in the cargo bed of a pick-up truck. The tool storage system incorporates elongated left and right side storage boxes that straddle the rear wheel compartments that protrude into the truck bed. These elongated lidded storage boxes are attached to associated side walls of the truck bed so that the top surface of the lids lie flush with the top edges of the truck side walls. A central array of separate and independent storage boxes arranged in tandem from the front wall of the truck bed to the tailgate are mounted within the cargo compartment between the elongated left and right side storage boxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Joe H. Dise
  • Patent number: 6601899
    Abstract: A multi-functional cargo bed liner assembly for a cargo bed of a vehicle includes a first side wall and a second side wall disposed in a transversely spaced relationship, and an integrally formed guide track in the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly also includes an end wall extending therebetween the first and second side walls at a first end, and a floor extending therebetween the first and second side walls. The cargo bed liner assembly further includes a movable divider panel supported within the guide track by a support rod, and extending transversely therebetween the first and second side walls, wherein the divider panel includes a positioning mechanism for fixedly locating the divider panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: PROJX
    Inventors: Lowell Kiester, Douglas Street
  • Publication number: 20030111503
    Abstract: An automobile trunk compartmentalizer which provides for variable connection of shafts and shaft housings by use of lockable pins whereby great variety of compartment sizes and shapes is possible at the user's option. Creation of more than one row of compartments in the automobile trunk may provide shallow compartments which are desirable for an aging population.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: William C. Miller
  • Patent number: 6546598
    Abstract: A vehicle luggage compartment structure, facilitating the putting in and taking out of small articles from a tray provided in a luggage compartment, and enabling the luggage compartment to be partitioned by the tray by fixing a box to a floor surface of the luggage compartment. A first protruding portion and a second protruding portion for engagement of the tray are engaged with a first guide groove and a first anchor hole of the box, respectively, to hold the tray in the box. By sliding the first protruding portion for engagement along the first guide groove to pull the tray out to the rear of the vehicle, a top wall of the luggage compartment no longer covers an open top side of the tray, thereby enabling small articles to be easily placed into and taken out from the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Boshoku Corporation
    Inventors: Hideya Nakanou, Toshimitsu Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6536826
    Abstract: A vehicle cargo box system is provided including a first brace member affixed to a surface of a wall of the vehicle, a first panel rotatably fastened to one edge of the brace member, and a second panel rotatably fastened to one edge of the first panel so as to enable the first and second panels to be deployed by rotating the respective panels in the appropriate direction. In this manner, a secure box-shaped enclosure is formed adjacent the cab portion of the vehicle and provides for storing tools and implements therein. When the cargo box is not required to be deployed, the respective panels are rotated in the appropriate opposite direction and are secured against the first brace member so as to increase the available cargo area on the bed surface of the vehicle. An optional second brace member is provided for engagement to the second panel to prevent unintended rotation of the second panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Plastech Engineered Products
    Inventor: Troy Reed
  • Patent number: 6520364
    Abstract: A storage system in which a base is preferably molded of a lightweight polymeric material and includes a peripheral raised edge for hingedly receiving front, rear, and end walls. The end walls of one embodiment are foldable, such that they collapse integrally with the front and rear walls. Each of the front, rear and end walls can be folded flat for compact storage of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Bradford J. Burrows
  • Patent number: 6516983
    Abstract: A cargo supporting device supports cargo within a vehicle compartment in more than one position. The cargo supporting device includes at least one moveable panel having a cargo supporting surface. The moveable panel moves from a first position that is relatively distant from a cargo access point to a second position that is closer to the cargo access point. The moveable panel effectively brings one or more cargo items closer to an individual to make them more readily accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, LLC
    Inventors: John Andrew Sotiroff, Roch Joseph Tolinski, Charles Berry Hopson, George Rene Chene, Simon Blair Dobson, Enrico Fin
  • Publication number: 20020179663
    Abstract: A retractable device compartmentalizes a vehicle cargo area. The device may be incorporated directly into the floor of the cargo area, or the device may comprise a housing removably disposed on or within the cargo area floor. An interior cavity is defined within the housing. A panel is selectively movable between a closed position wherein the panel covers the cavity and comprises at least a portion of the cargo area floor, and an open position. While in the open position, the panel divides the cargo area into at least two compartments. An optional partition is disposed within the housing and is selectively movable between an operative position and a storage position. A mechanism is provided for retracting the at least one partition into the cavity to the storage position. While in the operative position, the at least one partition divides the cargo area into at least two compartments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Donal Moore, Brian Bateman
  • Patent number: 6488168
    Abstract: An article-storing box placed in automobile trunk includes a bottom base, two lateral side plates, two lengthwise side plates and plural separating plates. The bottom base is provided with a chamber having stepped surfaces on two lengthwise sidewalls. The lateral side plates respectively have their bottom sides fitted pivotally between the two stepped surfaces of the chamber, having two insert blocks movable in two opposite sides. The lengthwise side plates respectively have their bottom sides disposed pivotally between the two stepped surfaces of the chamber, two hooks for receiving two insert blocks of the lateral side plates and plural guide grooves for the separating plates to insert therein. The separating plates are movable and have the same structure as that of the lateral side plates. The article-storing box can be separated into several compartments for storing different articles and is collapsible to take small space in an automobile trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: Chu-Li Wang
  • Patent number: 6481773
    Abstract: A removable storage unit for a motor vehicle including a first portion having an open side and defining a storage area, and a second portion having an open side and defining a second storage area. The first and second portions are rotateably coupled together to allow the storage areas to be adjacently located. The removable storage unit preferably has two modes. In the first mode, the storage unit is removed from the motor vehicle, and the open sides of the first and second portions are positioned adjacent one another, which allows for easy transportation of the unit. In the second mode, the storage unit is positioned within the motor vehicle so that the open sides of the first and second portions are oriented substantially coplanar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph L Salani, Theodore R Hamilton, Louis A Rhodes, Glenn W Abbott
  • Publication number: 20020134807
    Abstract: A container holder/tray combination includes a housing for mounting to a vehicle. The housing defines a recess for receiving therein at least one container holder, a cover pivotally mounted to the housing for covering the container holder and housing when in a closed position, and movable to an open position. The cover has a surface defining a tray, and the container holder is movably mounted with respect to the housing and tray between a first position coplanar with the tray for positioning a container therein and a second position within the housing. In a preferred embodiment, multiple independently movable adjacent container holders are provided to allow selectable use of the tray area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Kwang-Ha Kim, Raymond A. Iavasile, Michael D. Luyckx, Jeffrey L. Barber
  • Patent number: 6401995
    Abstract: A collapsible storage unit for a truck for providing a collapsible storage container for truck boxes. The collapsible storage unit for a truck includes a storage assembly including a box-like storage member having a bottom wall, a back wall being hingedly attached to the bottom wall, side walls being hingedly attached to the bottom wall, a front wall being hingedly attached to the bottom wall, and a lid being hingedly attached to the back wall with the side walls being removably fastened to the front and back walls; and also includes a hinge assembly for fastening the walls together to form the box-like storage member; and further includes a storage member securement assembly for securing the box-like storage member to side walls of a truck box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventors: Kim W. Yuille, Adam A. Robertson
  • Patent number: 6375055
    Abstract: A cargo management and restraining apparatus for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, which is also removable from the vehicle and useable as a free standing support surface such as a table. The apparatus includes a base and a pair of pivotably mounted end walls. The base fits within a recess formed within a floor of a cargo area of a vehicle. Cargo may be placed on the base and the end walls help to keep the cargo from moving or shifting during use of the vehicle. The end walls may be folded down against the base when the apparatus is not needed so as not to interfere with the placement of large cargo items in the cargo area. The apparatus can be completely removed from the vehicle and used as a free standing support surface such as a table. A plurality of wheels are included in one preferred embodiment to enable the apparatus to be used as a cart to move cumbersome or heavy items such as a thermal cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Shelle Dawn Tilstra
  • Publication number: 20020014524
    Abstract: A new, novel and useful folding cup that fits into a cup holder. The cup is designed to fit into an array of cup holders such as the cup holders that are often built into modern motor vehicles in an arm rest or dash of such an automobile. The cup may be made from paperboard as a paperboard blank or any other suitable material that may be formed into a collapsible or expandable configuration wherein the bottom panels form a generally circular shape which may include a polygonal configuration. When the cup is in the folded condition, the cup is in a generally flat condition for economy of storage and shipping. By squeezing opposite edges of the flat structure the cup expands such that its bottom takes on its generally circular shape which may include a polygonal configuration and the top opens to accept whatever substance will be placed in the cup. This new, novel and useful folding cup that fits in a cup holder may be used as a container for french fries, chicken pieces or bread sticks, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Willis
  • Patent number: 6290277
    Abstract: A cargo system for a vehicle having a floor and a seat that folds and forms a cargo surface. The cargo system includes a cargo platform having a front edge. The cargo platform is connectable to the vehicle for movement between a lowered position with the front edge being located under a portion of the seat and a raised position with the cargo platform being generally aligned with the cargo surface of the seat thereby forming an upper tier and a lower tier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Rick A. Anderson, Detlef Zimmermann
  • Publication number: 20010020631
    Abstract: A storage system in which a base is preferably molded of a lightweight polymeric material and includes a peripheral raised edge for hingedly receiving front, rear, and end walls. The end walls of one embodiment are foldable, such that they collapse integrally with the front and rear walls. Each of the front, rear and end walls can be folded flat for compact storage of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: September 13, 2001
    Applicant: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Bradford J. Burrows
  • Patent number: 6276583
    Abstract: An arrangement for transporting a plurality of golf bags within a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle has a rear storage area partially defined by first and second laterally spaced apart sides. The arrangement includes a lower mounting member and an upper mounting member. The lower mounting member is removably attached to the motor vehicle. The lower mounting member includes a corresponding plurality of recesses. Each of the plurality of recesses is adapted for receiving a lower end of one of the plurality of golf bags and is defined by a generally planar surface and an arcuate surface. The generally planar surface is angled from the horizontal and generally perpendicular to the arcuate surface. The upper mounting member includes a first end and a second end. The arrangement further includes first and second attachment members secured to the first and second laterally spaced apart sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Kevin Tourneur
  • Patent number: 6267340
    Abstract: An inserted support comprises a base plate, two supporting blocks, a volute disk, and a facial plate engaged with each other by fastening screws. The base plate has an upright edge surrounding the periphery thereof, and the upright edge has opposite recesses. A central elongated base groove is formed across the base plate. The supporting blocks are oppositely disposed at the base groove and each supporting block is a supporting post with a locating head to locate at the base groove. The volute disk has a volute groove at the bottom side thereof to receive the locating pins on the locating heads respectively while the volute disk is assembled to the base plate. The facial plate is provided corresponding to the base plate such that an extending downward edge thereof can be fitted with the upright edge on the base plate and a support part is provided thereon to associate with a mobile phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Chin-Yang Wang
  • Patent number: 6253943
    Abstract: A storage system in which a base is preferably molded of a lightweight polymeric material and includes a peripheral raised edge for hingedly receiving front, rear, and end walls. The end walls of one embodiment are foldable, such that they collapse integrally with the front and rear walls. Each of the front, rear and end walls can be folded flat for compact storage of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Prince Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Bradford J. Burrows
  • Patent number: 6241137
    Abstract: A removable deck/platform apparatus for the cargo area of sport/utility vehicles, pickup trucks, mini vans and/or other similar vehicles. The deck/platform apparatus is formed of forward and aft deck members each with integrally molded depending enclosures that serve as storage compartments and as elevating supports for the respective deck. The two deck members may be placed end-to end to form a larger deck/platform that generally conforms to the interior boundaries of the vehicle cargo area when the rear seats are reclined and stowed and may serve as a sleeping deck for supporting two adults. The storage compartments elevate the deck portions above the floor of the cargo area to define a large under-deck storage area for storing personal articles out of view. The storage compartments are provided with hinged lids for easy access from the top of the deck. One of the storage compartments of the forward deck is thermally insulated to serve as a cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Caven W. Corr
  • Patent number: 6231098
    Abstract: A tunnel covering for a motor vehicle has a supporting structure in which at least one receiving space is provided, and at least one approximately vertically extending longitudinal wall. At least one lateral wall element is mounted on the integrally constructed supporting structure. The lateral wall element is assigned to the longitudinal wall of the supporting structure and which, at least in sections together with the lateral wall, bounds one or several hollow spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Bernd Schenk, Tilo Volkmann
  • Patent number: 6189755
    Abstract: A combination beverage and cellular phone holder adapted for insertion into an existing vehicle beverage holder to convert it to a multi-unit holder and firmly position the cellular phone within the vehicle in a convenient and accessible position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Ericsson Inc.
    Inventor: Ivan Nelson Wakefield
  • Patent number: 6189851
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding beverage containers and other articles is provided. The apparatus includes two cylindrically shaped receptacles with a channel formed therebetween. The receptacles and channel are formed by a generally planar back wall that is substantially tangent to both receptacles, two arcuate side walls, and a front wall. The channel is off-set away from the lateral centerline of the apparatus to allow for reception of pencils, letters, note pads, and other such objects into the apparatus at the same time as beverage containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: L. John Ozark, Ricardo Z. Aneiros
  • Patent number: 6176535
    Abstract: A partitioning system for use in the storage area of a vehicle is disclosed. The partitioning system includes a multipurpose shelf that can be positioned in a plurality of different locations. The shelf can be disposed (1) horizontally near the top of the rear row of seats to act as a security cover; (2) horizontally along the floor in the storage area; (3) horizontally to cooperate of a folded last row of seats to provide a generally flat surface from the end gate into the passenger area; (4) vertically and adjacent to the rear row of seats; and (5) horizontally, while the end gate is open, such that the shelf extends beyond the storage area as defined by a closed end gate. The shelf includes a pivotable support leg that may contact the vehicle body to support the shelf in this horizontal position that extends beyond the storage area defined by a closed end gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Chaloult, George Walczowski, Thomas D Mihelich
  • Patent number: 6170724
    Abstract: A collapsible storage device for use in a pickup truck bed including a rear panel; a lower panel hingeably mounted to a lower edge of the rear panel at a first edge; a first side panel hingeably mounted to a first side edge of the rear panel at a first edge; a second side panel hingeably mounted to a first side edge of the rear panel at a first edge; a first compression mounting mounted to the face of the first side panel such that the first compression mounting is compressed between the first side panel and a first sidewall of the pickup truck bed when the first side panel is in an open position; a second compression mounting mounted to the face of the second side panel such that the second compression mounting is compressed between the second side panel and a second sidewall opposing the first sidewall of the pickup truck bed when the second side panel is in an open position; a top panel hingeably mounted to a top edge of the rear panel at a first edge, the top panel resting on a top edge of the first and s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Markets Direct, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Carter, Eric Garris, Kurt Menke
  • Patent number: 6113172
    Abstract: A partitioning system is for use in the storage area of a vehicle. The partitioning system includes a multipurpose shelf that can be positioned in a plurality of different locations. The shelf can be disposed (1) horizontally near the top of the rear row of seats to act as a security cover; (2) horizontally along the floor in the storage area; (3) horizontally to cooperate of a folded last row of seats to provide a generally flat surface from the end gate into the passenger area; (4) vertically and adjacent to the rear row of seats; and (5) horizontally, while the end gate is open, such that the shelf extends beyond the storage area as defined by a closed end gate. The shelf includes a pivotable support leg that may contact the vehicle body to support the shelf in this horizontal position that extends beyond the storage area defined by a closed end gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Chaloult, George Walczowski, Thomas D. Mihelich, John W. Joyce, Robert P. Kuhr, Thomas E. Edson
  • Patent number: 6109493
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an inside trim for a vehicle, such as, for example, a motor vehicle.According to the invention, the inside trim is formed by at least a case (1) for stowing articles and by a housing (2) provided in the interior of the vehicle, the case (1) being designed to be removable, fully or in part, in relation to the housing (2), and the trim being provided with means for displacing and/or deploying the storage space defined by the case (1) outside the housing (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Plastic Omnium Auto Interierur
    Inventor: Frederic Bieri
  • Patent number: 6106085
    Abstract: An organizer for an automobile glove compartment includes a support surface supported by one or more support members. The support surface is coated with flocked finish to prevent the items resting on it from sliding. The support surface has cut-out regions on its front edge so that the items resting on it will protrude and drivers can easily retrieve such items. The support members also act as compartment separators. The back edge of the organizer may extend so that it is flush with the back wall of the glove compartment and the items resting on the support surface will not fall off the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventors: Michael Berrito, Joel Bahu
  • Patent number: 6092708
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a vehicle storage support device for easy installation into and removal from a vehicle's rear storage compartment. The device has a generally horizontally extending top platform that has ends that are rotatably connected to vertical support panels. The top platform has a length adjustment means and the vertical support panels have a height adjustment means that allows the device to be adjusted to snugly fit the interior of the rear storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: James M. Rand
  • Patent number: 6089429
    Abstract: A container is provided including a housing having a lower extent and an upper extent. The upper extent has a length greater than that of the lower extent to define a pair of side extents one of which extends from the housing further than a second one of the side extents. Also included is a cabinet and at least one cubbyhole for storing various items within the housing. Both the cabinet and the cubbyhole each have a locking mechanism for precluding unauthorized access thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Sheldon E. Everson
  • Patent number: 6062518
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to a device for retaining a cellular phone in an automotive interior utilizing an existing cupholder. The device includes a base with a top portion and one or more downwardly extending gripping members for gripping the side wall of a cupholder. A bracket for retaining a cellular phone is supported on the base. The device preferably includes an elongated extension extending upwardly from the top portion of the base and terminating in an adjustable connector which supports the retaining bracket. The downwardly extending gripping members preferably are adjustable to allow the device to accommodate a variety of cupholders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: United Global Sourcing Incorporated
    Inventor: T. Gerald Etue
  • Patent number: 6056177
    Abstract: A collapsible storage container for mini-vans and sports utility vehicles having a floor panel, a front wall, a back wall, and a pair of side walls. A partition wall extends between the front and back walls, separating the container into separate compartments. The side walls and the partition wall are hingedly attached to the floor panel and selectively fold flat against the floor panel. The front and back walls are two-piece members, each comprising a top portion and a lower portion. Each upper portion is hingedly connected along a seam to the corresponding lower portion. In turn, each lower portion is attached to the floor panel. The front wall lower portion is hingedly attached to the floor panel and may be lowered forward to allow access to the interior of the container. The container also includes a top panel that covers the contents of the container. Doors in the top panel provide access to the container interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Schneider
  • Patent number: 6050202
    Abstract: A storage divider includes a first frame which has one edge pivotally mounted to the floor of the vehicle and a second frame pivotally mounted to the first frame member remote from its connection to the vehicle floor. Together the frames move from a co-planar collapsed stored position to a raised position elevating a storage platform positioned on the second frame above the floor area of the vehicle while leaving the floor area of the vehicle open for additional storage. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second frame includes one edge with extensions which hook into sockets mounted to the sidewalls of the vehicle for holding the storage divider in an extended use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph M. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6050468
    Abstract: A unitarily constructed apparatus for adjustably supporting a beverage container within a motor vehicle includes an upper flange, a lower base, and an outer wall interconnecting the upper flange and the lower base. The outer wall defines at least one recess for receiving a beverage container. Each recess has a maximum diameter. The outer wall is formed to include at least one resiliently deflectable portion associated with each recess. The resiliently deflectable portion extends inwardly from the maximum diameter. The apparatus is preferably unitarily constructed from a flexible material and removably insertable into an opening of a console of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Richard L. Kelley
  • Patent number: 6041987
    Abstract: A cargo organizer for the trunk of a vehicle. The device consists of a tubular fame work which is telescopically adjustable and held in position by a pressuring device located inside the tubular members of the framework. Divider plates are located on the framework for dividing the available space in the organizer. The plates may be moved or positioned anywhere along the straight portion of the tubular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Sham L. Tickoo
  • Patent number: 6029876
    Abstract: The combination of a container having an emergency fuel therein for an internal combustion engine. The container is disposed in a trunk of a vehicle or in a storage compartment on a boat. A handle is formed on a body of the container. A closable outlet is formed on the body. A spout is adapted to be connected to the closable outlet. The container is manually releasably retained in the trunk of the vehicle. Also a method is disclosed of safely storing a stable emergency fuel in the trunk of a vehicle or in a storage compartment on a boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Maryland Patent Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Reginald N. Spencer, William A. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 6027000
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device designed to be fitted in vehicle boots to stabilize luggage against slipping and tipping. The device has a base frame (10) and, a certain distance above the base frame (10), an upper frame (12), the two frames being made up of telescoping bars (16, 18) and corner connectors (26) and being connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventors: Helmut Walter Sterzel, Walter Schaffert, Marisa Sollner