Bracket And Article Holding Means Are Separable Patents (Class 224/547)
  • Patent number: 7802709
    Abstract: A universal, adaptable hanger mounted cargo carrier for removable mounting over and around a trailer frame without requiring modification of either I-beam or box beam trailer rails. The carrier comprises a generally rectangular box with steel mesh floor and opposed inverted corner J-hook mounts for slidable mounting of the carrier over the trailer frame rail extending deep enough below the bottom of the rail to enable a locking mechanism to at least partially close the opening of the inverted J-hook below the frame. Inverted ā€œUā€ shaped spacers reduce the size of the J-hook opening, thereby adapting the carrier for flush mounting on a range of different sized rails. A steel mesh floor and holes in the walls of the carrier for insertion of hook ends of bungee cords allow for retention and transport of objects of varying size and shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey Thomas Lewis, Robert Mark Matriotti
  • Publication number: 20100219220
    Abstract: A mounting bracket assembly includes a clamping arrangement mounted for vertical movement on a mounting structure and is movable between an engaged position and disengaged position relative to a self-contained breathing apparatus held in the mounting bracket assembly. A camming arrangement is located between the clamping arrangement and the mounting structure for permitting and preventing vertical movement of the clamping arrangement relative to the mounting structure. A powered latching mechanism is engageable with a portion of the clamping arrangement for providing unlatched and latched positions. A control arrangement separate from the powered latching mechanism is operatively connected thereto to selectively control the powered latching mechanism and effect release of the self-contained breathing apparatus from the latched position when the vehicle is in a stationary and parked condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: H.O. Bostrom Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul C. Bostrom, Wayne R. Block, Matthew C. Horn
  • Publication number: 20100213228
    Abstract: Systems, arrangements and methods that permit accessories, sub-systems and related articles to be releasably mounted at a surface of an recreational vehicle so that a suspended object can be variously located about the vehicle. The system accommodates mounting the article at various locations about the recreational vehicle utilizing a plurality of receivers configured to be at least semi-permanently coupled to an exterior surface of the recreational vehicle. Each of the receivers are adapted to releasably receive an insert member associated with an article to be suspended from the vehicle at a location proximate the respective receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: THULE SWEDEN AB
    Inventor: Chris Dannewitz
  • Patent number: 7770764
    Abstract: An aerodynamic spare tire cover system is provided for use with a spare tire stored on a vehicle underbody. The cover system can be used to cover a full sized spare tire or a temporary spare tire, while providing the same aerodynamic qualities. The cover system includes an annular spare tire cover defining a central aperture, a removable center cap for selectively covering the central aperture, a center spacer supported by the annular spare tire cover that is adjustable between a first position and a second position depending on whether a full sized spare or temporary spare is being covered, and removable spacers supported by the annular spare tire cover. A full sized spare tire and the center spacer in the first position space the spare tire cover the same distance from a position on the vehicle underbody, on the opposite side of the spare tire, as a temporary spare tire, and the center spacer in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yaniv Rock, Brian Dressel, Robb Augustine, Matthew Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20100193556
    Abstract: The support for cooling a container is a portable holder for a container of chewing tobacco that can be releasably attached to a vehicle air conditioner vent. The support includes a substantially circular front wall having at least one front rib formed on an inner face thereof. A semi-cylindrical sidewall extends peripherally from the inner face of the front wall, and at least one side rib is formed on an inner face thereof. A rear strap or wall extends across the sidewall, forming a pocket for holding the container. The rear wall is adapted for releasable attachment to the vent. In use, the at least one front rib and the at least one side rib space the container apart from the respective inner faces of the front wall and the sidewall to permit cool air to circulate around the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Jonathan M. Dethmers
  • Publication number: 20100133308
    Abstract: A golf accessory for attaching to an accessory mounting system of a golf car. The accessory mounting system including a bracket that is configured to connectably receive the golf accessory and a mount for attachment to the golf car and configured to connectably receive the bracket. The mount including a base that has a generally vertical surface, an aperture extending generally horizontally into the base from the vertical surface and configured to receive a portion of a fastener coupled with the bracket, and a slotted opening extending into the base and configured to receive a portion of the bracket. The base including a generally horizontal surface and the slotted opening extends generally vertically into the base from the horizontal surface. The golf accessory including a golf-related item, and means for connecting the golf-related item to the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: CLUB CAR, INC.
    Inventors: David R. Hardy, Gary L. Lewis, Duane E. Newman, Geoff D. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20100122994
    Abstract: A connecting device includes a fixture having a through slot, a block having a compartment connected to and in communication with the through slot, a neck, a hooking base extending from the neck, and a controller moveably mounted in the compartment and including a first engaging portion extending out of the through slot and being operable to move into the through slot. A connecting body is releasably mounted to the fixture and including a first end and a second end, a first groove and a second groove. When the connecting body is joined with the fixture, the hooking base is received in the first groove and the neck is received in the second groove and the first engaging portion of the controller protrudes on the first end of the connecting body for secure and stable engagement therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 7669443
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting and locking storage containers and portable items to vehicles, buildings and larger items. A universal two-part mount and lock system whereas one part covers over and conceals second part making it not possible to access fasteners. The two part mount mates together and after actuating a lock makes it so two parts cannot be separated thus protecting an attached portable item from theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin Larue Varner
  • Patent number: 7669828
    Abstract: An accessory mounting system is for attaching at least first and second accessories to a vehicle. A first bracket is configured to connectably receive the first accessory and a second bracket is configured to connectably receive the second accessory. The second bracket has a configuration substantially different than the first bracket. A mount is coupled with the vehicle and is configured to connectably receive the first bracket to attach the first accessory to the vehicle and to alternatively connectably receive the second bracket to attach the second accessory to the vehicle. The mount preferably includes a base coupled with the vehicle and at least one and preferably two apertures extending into the base, each configured to receive a fastener coupled with the accessory. A slotted opening extends into the base, is spaced below the apertures, and configured to receive a portion of either an accessory or a bracket connected therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Club Car, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hardy, Gary L. Lewis, Duane E. Newman, Geoff D. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20090189381
    Abstract: An accessory mounting system for vehicles or the like including one or more mounting rails, one or more mounting clamps, one optional sliding rail per clamp, and one optional hinged latching mechanism per clamp. The mounting rail is trapezoidal in profile, and may include one or more pieces, and is permanently mounted to the vehicle frame, body, or other component and oriented with the wider of the two parallel faces facing outward from the vehicle's mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: Archimedes Intellectual, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph P. Kirtland
  • Publication number: 20080296331
    Abstract: A portable security enclosure assembly is provided for use with a vehicle of the type having a surface. The enclosure includes a base and means for fixing the base to the vehicle surface. Means are provided for detachably mounting the enclosure to the base. The mounting means includes first and second rings pivotally mounted on the base surface for movement between an upright position and a non-upright position. The rings are spaced apart. The enclosure has first and second openings adapted to align with the rings, respectively, when the enclosure is situated on the base, such that the rings extend through the openings in the enclosure when the rings are in the upright position. A locking bar, longer than the distance between the rings, is adapted to be simultaneously received through the rings, so as to secure the enclosure to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Steven Klosk
  • Publication number: 20080110950
    Abstract: A portable storage device and filing system is provided for use in a transportation vehicle. The system comprises a case which may be engaged with an interior trim component, such as an interior sidewall, and the device may appear to be part of the interior vehicle trim. The device may be accessed by articulating the sides of the case away from one another to expose the interior of the case. The interior of the case may include an expandable compartment having dividers or folders for storage and organizing of loose pieces of paper. The case may be trimmed to coordinate with the interior theme of the vehicle when stored in the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: COLLINS & AIKMAN PRODUCTS CO.
    Inventors: James D. DOWD, Marc A. HAYES
  • Patent number: 7234619
    Abstract: An accessory strip for a vehicle having a bracket secured to a track at select locations. The bracket includes a cam on an inner end that is received by a cam lock bar. The cam is movable within the track to selected positions where it may be locked in place. The bracket may include a dovetail socket to which articles may be secured by means of a dovetail plug and also may include a hook on which articles may be hung by means of flexible handles, or the like. The accessory strip assembly may be attached to an interior wall or may be formed as an integral track on an interior wall or seat back of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: International Automotive Components Group North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas S. Hicks, Jeffrey A. Kempf, James M. Hutek
  • Patent number: 7225958
    Abstract: A storage container system for mounting a storage box on the exterior of a vehicle has trapezoidal members attached to the vehicle that mate with and hold U-shaped members mounted on the container to be carried. The system has a handle mounted on the box which holds the U-shaped member in contact with the trapezoidal member when the box is in a locked position for vehicle movement and a tab that will partially separate the U-shaped member from the trapezoidal member when the handle is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: David N. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7175060
    Abstract: A securing bracket for mounting a bed slide in a vehicle storage area is disclosed. The bed slide-mounting bracket is characterized by a body with a protrusion. The protrusion is formed comprising a cavity sufficient to affix the bed slide-mounting bracket to the vehicle storage area using pre-existing vehicle hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: IFW, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith A. Carpenter, Steve Robinson, Dan Marshall
  • Patent number: 7100808
    Abstract: A holding base system comprising a platform with an exteriorly splined post projecting therefrom and mounting means for securing the platform to a surface; an article holder having a splined inner wall on a bottom thereof to fit on and cooperate with the splined post and a top thereof shaped and constructed to secure an article to be supported, with the orientation of the supported article being determined by the relative positioning of the splined socket to the splined post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Stearns Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Hancock, Jefferey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 7077302
    Abstract: An apparatus attaches a first object to a second object in a manner that the first object can be located in a desired orientation with respect to the second object. The apparatus includes an engaging member detachably mounted to the second object, e.g., a bicycle handlebar. The apparatus further includes a fixing member to which the first object, e.g., a headlamp of a bicycle or cellular phone bag is attached. The headlamp or cellular phone bag can be mounted to the engaging member in a desired orientation. The engaging member remains on the handlebar when reattaching the headlamp or cellular phone bag to the engaging member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 7073857
    Abstract: Apparatus to provide an overhead support for suspending hanging furniture includes a base configured for attachment to a vehicle trailer hitch receiver. An upright member extends upwardly from the base and at least one support member extends outwardly from the upright member a sufficient distance to receive and suspend a hanging chair. Preferably, two support members are provided and extend outwardly from the upright member in different directions from one another so that two hanging chairs can be supported in normal hanging condition spaced from one another and from the upright member. The support members are preferably removably mounted to the upright so that the apparatus can be disassembled for easy transportation and storage. At least one of the support members is preferably rotatably mounted to the upright member so its orientation can be rotatably adjusted in relation to the upright member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Braydon R. Bailey
  • Patent number: 7066363
    Abstract: The specification and drawings describe and show the present invention in the form of a tray designed to accommodate the snug installation of an associated or desired cooler. The tray is further designed to be installed on the steering column of a vehicle, such as a golf cart vehicle. Optionally, the upstanding side walls and front wall of the tray portion can have drink holders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Pierre G. A. Lecoq
  • Patent number: 7066366
    Abstract: A long gun carrying system for all terrain vehicles that incorporates a support structure that will mount on a rear deck or rack on an ATV and that will support a channel member to receive a soft gun case. The soft gun case is attached to the channel member and the soft gun case may be removed with a gun inside, from the channel member. Alternatively, the long gun is easily removed from the soft gun case, while leaving the gun case in position on the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Stearns Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 7044344
    Abstract: A container for a golf car has a connector for connecting a golfing accessory to the container. The connector comprises a pair of notches formed in the container for receiving a pair of clips formed in the golf accessory. The golfing accessory is solely supported from the container by the connector and permits non-interfering use of the container and the golfing accessory when the golfing accessory is attached to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Covered Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Winkler
  • Patent number: 6955280
    Abstract: A cellular phone securing device is mounted on a carrying holder to be fixed to a belt or clothes or on an onboard holder installed in an interior of a vehicle. The cellular phone securing device includes a projecting shaft disposed erect on the surface of a main body portion thereof to be fixed to and held by the carrying holder or the onboard holder, and a securing pawl and a securing metal member respectively projecting from at least two positions of one and the other end portions of the back surface side of the main body portion. While securing the cellular phone by these securing pawl and metal member, the cellular phone securing device is mounted on the cellular phone in such a manner that the main body sits astride a cellular phone between at least two positions of a casing of the cellular phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eiji Saitoh, Keigo Matsuura
  • Patent number: 6942131
    Abstract: An aftermarket beverage holder for commercial beverage cans is adapted for mounting on the handlebars of a motorcycle or bicycle. A mounting bracket is adapted to be clamped on the handlebars. An open topped cylindrical can or container is mounted on the mounting bracket. The container is adapted for receiving a commercial beverage container such as a soda can. The container may be selectively mounted on or removed from the mounting bracket. An insulating liner is slightly larger than the beverage can for hugging the can and assuring that the can does not inadvertently become dislodged from the beverage holder. The system is designed such that the container can be selectively mounted on and removed from the mounting system without removing the beverage can from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventors: Tim Trautman, Roger Goodwin
  • Patent number: 6932406
    Abstract: A quick release mounting for a storage box in the bed of a pickup truck. The mounting includes an aid in locating the necessary hole to be bored in the box for mounting; guides in the subsequent placement of the box; and allows a tool-less removal and replacement of the box, when necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Truckwerx LLC
    Inventor: Robert D. Waye
  • Patent number: 6923354
    Abstract: A toolbox assembly for mounting in the box of a pickup truck includes a rectangular casing with an open front end; a drawer slidable in said casing; a lock on said drawer for locking the drawer in the casing; a pair of L-shaped brackets for mounting on the floor of the box immediately rearwardly of the wheel wells, the brackets slidably receiving the casing; and a lock mechanism for releasably locking the casing in said brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Garth Axelson
  • Patent number: 6899256
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: William R. Richter
  • Patent number: 6889881
    Abstract: The vehicle mounted storage unit includes a support bracket that is clamped to a vehicle's spare tire and wheel rack on the outside of a vehicle by the fasteners that clamp the wheel to the rack. A storage unit frame is attached to the support bracket by a mechanical fastener. A pair of spaced apart left upper door panel post receiving tubes are mounted on the unit frame. A pair of spaced apart right upper door panel post receiving tubes are also mounted on the storage unit frame. The posts are positioned to minimize the space required for the door panel panels. Side curtain hangers are also secured to the storage unit frame. An inner pan is attached to the unit frame. An outer pan is pivotally connected to the unit frame. The two pans cooperate to encase the unit frame and vehicle components supported by the unit frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Sausage Express A
    Inventor: Larry G. Wilkens
  • Patent number: 6863198
    Abstract: An apparatus for the transport of a propane tank for filling includes a clamp assembly that is adapted for attachment to a portion of a sidewall of a pickup truck. A removable assembly is detachably-attachable with respect to the clamp assembly. The removable assembly includes a pivoting plate that is adapted to receive a bottom of a propane tank thereon, and a band assembly that is adapted to secure an upper portion of the propane tank. The pivoting plate is adapted to pivot upward for storage and the band assembly is adapted to pivot downward for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Wyland Darby
  • Patent number: 6820781
    Abstract: An all terrain vehicle storage rack including an L-shaped bracket having a base for supporting a container thereon and an upstanding leg for detachably mounting on the back of an all terrain vehicle storage rack. A forward portion of at least one container retaining ring is secured to the upstanding leg. A rear portion of the ring is secured and to a rigidifying bar which spans the terminal end of the base and a rear portion of the container ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Gary M. Gardner
  • Patent number: 6817503
    Abstract: A multiple accessory port assembly (10) for mounting an accessory to the frame of a vehicle includes a frame member (12), a pair of mounting brackets (14, 14) for securing the assembly to the vehicle frame, and a pair of accessory ports (22, 22) carried on the frame. Each of the ports projects from the frame member and includes an opening (24, 24) for receiving the mounting port of an accessory such as a cargo carrier (C).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Thomas W. Lindenman
  • Publication number: 20040219003
    Abstract: A hitch mountable refuse container transport device has a vertical element supporting a telescoping mount, in an exemplary embodiment, that carries engagement keys on a horizontal bracket. Each key is adapted for engagement with an upper attachment element and a lower attachment element on the refuse container. Adjustment of the telescoping mount lifts the containers for transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Russell J. Bik, William J. Kelley
  • Patent number: 6811065
    Abstract: An auto activity center with toy and baby bottle tether for providing an adjustable rod assembly adapted for use in the rear of a vehicle to suspend toys and bottles to occupy the infant during car travel. The auto activity center with toy and baby bottle tether includes a horizontal support member that is coupled to an interior of a vehicle adjacent to a top of the interior. Each of a plurality of vertical support assemblies has a first end that is coupled to the horizontal support member. Each one of the vertical support assemblies has a second end. A plurality of fastening means is coupled to the second end. Each one of the plurality of fastening means is for securing a children's accessory to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Anita Brady
  • Patent number: 6789832
    Abstract: An article attachment system is disclosed for a vehicle having one or more receiving members. The system includes a base having an attachment device to couple and uncouple the base with the receiving member. The base is configured to interchangeably receive an article and includes a retention device to selectively retain and release the article. A universal mounting adapter is also disclosed for interchangeably attaching articles to a receiving member and includes a base adapted to couple to the receiving member, a selectively deployable attachment device adapted to engage a portion of the receiving member and couple the base to the receiving member, an article interface to couple an article to the base, and a retention device between the article interface and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Dale A. Gort, Leif A. Norland, David B. Fry
  • Patent number: 6789714
    Abstract: A retaining system for several items includes several group retaining structures, each group retaining structure having an item holding structure for retaining a group of related items; a collective mounting structure including mounting rails having fasteners for fastening to a mounting surface and having rail engaging structures for releasibly engaging and supporting several of the group retaining structures so that items retained on the group retaining structures are collectively displayed and individually accessible; and a group retaining structure carrier having carrier engaging structures for releasibly engaging and supporting at least one group retaining structure, the group retaining structure carrier having a carrier handle permitting a user to grasp and carry the group retaining structure carrier and any attached group retaining structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventors: Kerry J. Benson, Ross J. Petrie
  • Publication number: 20040124222
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing articles is provided. The system is particularly well-suited for stabilizing plastic grocery bags during transport in a vehicle. The system comprises a stabilizing element that, when in use, extends from a first point to a second point and passes through the handles of a bag to be stabilized. Preferably, the first and second points are fixed, either detachably or semi-permanently, on the sidewalls in the interior of a vehicle. Further, the stabilizing element preferably is flexible. In addition, the stabilizing element preferably can be disconnected from the second point and also preferably, the stabilizing element can recoil into a location at the first point so that only a portion of the stabilizing element is visible. Other preferred embodiments of the present invention, including those with intermediary fixtures or intermediary support features, as well as those with multiple stabilizing elements, also are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: William R. Richter
  • Patent number: 6755428
    Abstract: A portable cooler assembly which can be transported along a surface and also secured to a vehicle. The cooler assembly includes an insulated container body having walls and a bottom defining a storage chamber. A lid is pivotally mounted to the container body for covering the storage chamber. A pair of wheels are each rotatably mounted to the container body for transporting the cooler assembly along the surface. A pair of retaining brackets are mounted to the vehicle. The container body abuts the retaining brackets, with the retaining brackets at least partially encompassing the walls of the container body, when the cooler assembly is secured to the vehicle. The cooler assembly also includes a pair of releasable fasteners. At least one of the walls, bottom, and lid preferably has a wheel recess with the wheels being fastened within the wheel recess when the wheels are removed from the container body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Moeller Marine Products
    Inventor: David L. Butler
  • Publication number: 20040079778
    Abstract: The vehicle mounted storage unit includes a support bracket that is clamped to a vehicle's spare tire and wheel rack on the outside of a vehicle by the fasteners that clamp the wheel to the rack. A storage unit frame is attached to the support bracket by a mechanical fastener. A pair of spaced apart left upper door panel post receiving tubes are mounted on the unit frame. A pair of spaced apart right upper door panel post receiving tubes are also mounted on the storage unit frame. The posts are positioned to minimize the space required for the door panel panels. Side curtain hangers are also secured to the storage unit frame. An inner pan is attached to the unit frame. An outer pan is pivotally connected to the unit frame. The two pans cooperate to encase the unit frame and vehicle components supported by the unit frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Larry G. Wilkens
  • Publication number: 20040079779
    Abstract: A carrying tray assembly for the rear of a sport utility vehicle. The assembly is suspended from sections of the sports bar arrangement and permits easy access to any items on the tray of the assembly. The assembly also permits other gear to be placed below the tray on the floor of the rear deck of the vehicle and covered with a tonneau if desired to protect the gear from the elements. The assembly has front and rear supporting systems that are adjustable to fit a variety of sport bar designs. Additionally, because the tray is suspended from sections of the sports bar arrangement rearwardly of the driver's and front passenger's seats, traditional half tops and windscreens can also be used on the vehicle at the same time as the carrying tray assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Richard C. Essig
  • Patent number: 6726074
    Abstract: A modular utility carrier to mount to a folded-down windshield assembly of a vehicle has a body tray having a length, width and height, the body tray formed by side walls and a bottom wall forming an upward-facing cavity, and a plurality of attachment assemblies connected to the body and having each an attachment interface to provide a releasable attachment to the folded-down windshield. Various embodiments are taught as well as methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: SoundStarts, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Boys
  • Publication number: 20040050891
    Abstract: An automotive tool tray and support assembly that can be removably engaged with and affixed to the hood-latch mechanisms of automobiles having rear-raising engine hoods. The support assembly comprises two hollow support members, with an extendable insert movably disposed within the support member. Both support members are substantially rigidly and removably affixed to their respective hood latch mechanisms by inserting the inserts in the hood latch mechanisms. The hood latch mechanisms engage with and retain the inserts, and the support members rest on the hood latch mechanism housings. An automotive tool tray is positioned over the exposed engine compartment by affixing the tray to the top ends of the support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Paul Kiyoshi Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6705498
    Abstract: An adjustable bracket for carrying a gun case on a vehicle consists of a plate to be attached to the vehicle, a gun case carrier, and an adjustable linkage connecting the plate to the gun case carrier. The adjustable linkage allows the gun case carrier to be rotated to a variety of angles relative to the plate. A lock holds the gun case carrier at the desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick K. Gantert
  • Patent number: 6702169
    Abstract: A container that can be locked and fastened to a vehicle with lockable fastening devices in a detachable manner, made of material impenetrable toward gaining unauthorized access to the contents, is designed in such a way that it can be carried as a bag in the detached state and stored on the vehicle side in the empty state in a space-saving and aesthetically appealing manner. For this purpose, the container is made of a collapsible material and designed like a bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Konrad Eipper
  • Patent number: 6698995
    Abstract: A hitch mountable refuse container transport device has a vertical element supporting a telescoping mount that carries T-bar keys on a horizontal bracket. Each key has a horizontal surface sized to be received within a recessed portion on the refuse container and engage a lip on an upper periphery of the recessed portion. Adjustment of the telescoping mount lifts the containers for transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventors: Russell J. Bik, William J. Kelley
  • Patent number: 6681971
    Abstract: Securement arrangement for mounting articles upon a carrying vehicle. The arrangement includes a pair of substantially rigid body members. At least one of the pair of body members has a receiver configured to accept the installation of a fitting member therein. A plurality of resilient fitting members are utilized. Each fitting member is adapted to be installed in the receiver in a plurality of orientations. At least one of the fitting members is configured to present a variable buffering thickness between the rigid body member and a receiving member of a carrying vehicle upon which the securement arrangement shall be installed. The variable buffering thickness is dependent upon an installed orientation of the fitting member in the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: John Laverack, Gregor Weaver, John F. Niedermeyer, Fred Murray, Jeffrey Ransden
  • Patent number: 6666362
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for storing cargo in a vehicle having a flat horizontal surface, such as a van or an SUV, is disclosed. Strips, which may be separate or part of a unitary member, have openings adapted to receive pins. The openings have vertical sections extending downwardly and horizontal sections extending forward in the direction of vehicle travel. The bins have an upper storage area and pins mounted at the bottom of the bin. The bin is mounted to the strips by directing the pins first through the vertical section and then through the horizontal section of the openings. The pins may extend outwardly from a reduced width area at the bottom of the bin, or may be centrally mounted at the bottom of the bin. Alternatively, pins are mounted to the strips and openings are formed in the bins. The strips may be formed into a unitary frame. Flat filler boards are also provided which may be placed between the strips when no storage bin is used in order to provide a flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: SAI Automotive USA-SAL, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephane L. LeTrudet
  • Patent number: 6641014
    Abstract: A cantilevered member mounted at a first end to the base and extending cantilevered from the base to an opposite second end, opposite to the first end, and a cross-member mounted to the second end of the cantilevered member, the cross-member having opposite first and second ends. The cantilevered member may be releasably pivotally mounted to the base so as to be selectively angularly positionable relative to the base. A rigid first arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the first end of the cross member. A rigid second arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the second end of the cross-member. The first and second arms are parallel to the cross-member and mounted for sliding and pivoting in a plane parallel to a plane containing the cross-member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Arliss McNalley
  • Publication number: 20030173388
    Abstract: An article holder particularly for use with all-terrain vehicles and comprising bifurcated arms, with or without fins or other holding structures extending between the arms and a cushioning web between the arms at the junction of the arms to provide a cushion for an article to be held between the arms and to close the arms against an inserted article when the cushioning means is depressed and including a mounting base projecting from the junction of the arms and hooks on the outer sides of the ars to accommodate a resilient strap to be hooked over an inserted article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Dennis H. Hancock, Jeffery D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6612615
    Abstract: A cart attachment system, for attaching a cart to a vehicle, the vehicle having a trailer hitch, including a carrier and a V-bracket. The V-bracket is attached to the cart, and has an underside hollow. The carrier includes a main tube which extends vertically and which is attached to the trailer hitch with an L-adapter that is rigidly affixed to the main tube. A slidable member is mounted for vertical movement within the main tube. A triangular support member is mounted to the main tube and fits within the hollow of the V-bracket, such that the triangular support member is raised by raising the slidable member to lift the V-bracket which in turn lifts the cart off the ground for transport. When the destination is reached, the cart is easily lowered to the ground by lowering the slidable member and thereby lowering the triangular support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Eldad Dimand
  • Patent number: 6588637
    Abstract: A utility holding device configured to be attached to a utility structure and to carry elongated objects includes a support base, a mounting stem supported by the support base, and a generally U-shaped holding member supported by the mounting stem. The U-shaped member has two upright arms which are open at the top so as to define a containment area configured to receive an elongate object. The U-shaped member further includes a plurality of alternating length gripping fins extending from at least one of the upright arms into the containment area to help hold items securely therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: All Rite Products, Inc.
    Inventors: George D. Gates, Travis D. Gates
  • Publication number: 20030094471
    Abstract: A cantilevered member mounted at a first end to the base and extending cantilevered from the base to an opposite second end, opposite to the first end, and a cross-member mounted to the second end of the cantilevered member, the cross-member having opposite first and second ends. The cantilevered member may be releasably pivotally mounted to the base so as to be selectively angularly positionable relative to the base. A rigid first arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the first end of the cross member. A rigid second arm is pivotally and slidably mounted to the second end of the cross-member. The first and second arms are parallel to the cross-member and mounted for sliding and pivoting in a plane parallel to a plane containing the cross-member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Arliss McNalley